Regional and community development in the Town of Blackfalds and surrounding areas were among the topics discussed at Lacombe County council's June 12 meeting.

According to minutes submitted to The Rural Alberta Report, council approved a funding agreement with the Town of Blackfalds for upgrades to the Broadway Reservoir, which supports the Aspelund Industrial Area. Administration was also directed to work with Lacombe and Blackfalds officials to draft terms of reference for a Regional Collaboration Committee, and to investigate the feasibility of a regional water system near Gull Lake.

Fire services and bylaw amendments

Council received several fire services presentations for information and directed the County Manager to prepare reports on year-round fire permitting, fire department response fees, and updates to the County’s Fire Services Manual. Council also passed bylaw amendments allowing the recovery of outstanding fire response fees through the property tax roll.

Funding commitments approved

Council approved contributions of up to $300,000 for the City of Lacombe’s cemetery expansion and nearly $290,000 toward capital projects at the Kinsmen Aquatic Centre, Lacombe Memorial Centre, Gary Moe Sportsplex and local ball diamonds. Scholarships of $1,000 were confirmed for both the Alix Legion and Bentley Seed Cleaning Plant programs. Council also approved a $1,000 sponsorship for the Lacombe County Business of the Year Award.

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