The Town of Stettler council discussed dust control and lagoon treatment at its regular meeting Aug. 19.

In 2024, the County of Stettler No. 6 applied dust reduction measures on a 550-metre stretch of 38 Avenue between 44 Street and 50 Street, adjacent to the Anderson subdivision. The work was approved by the town council to reduce dust affecting nearby residents. Maintenance and a second application of dust control were later completed on the road.

The county has proposed a road maintenance agreement with the town to protect the integrity of the dust reduction. The agreement sets responsibilities for both municipalities, with the county providing summer grading services and the town maintaining control of the road, including snow and ice removal. It also outlines indemnity and hold-harmless clauses for both parties.

Council also reviewed remediation measures for the town’s lagoon system. The facility consists of nine cells, with four anaerobic and five treatment or storage cells. While the system functioned with minimal odour issues in 2024, reports of strong odours have increased in 2025.

“We are not sure why this is happening but the balance in the system is upset,” stated Melissa Robbins, Director of Operations.

ACC Wastewater Solutions has submitted a proposal to address the issue. The plan includes adding aeration at lift stations A and B to provide pre-treatment of commercial and industrial waste, along with the use of biological products to reduce sludge and odours.

The town’s 2025 lagoon treatment budget is $40,000, with $14,000 remaining. ACC’s proposal totals $34,568.  “They worked with us before and that is what gives us more faith in this because they solved it for a couple of years.” mentioned Coun. Cheryl Barros.  It was also mentioned that each aerator cost $3000, but would only have to be bought once.  

“This is something we have to do,” said Mayor Sean Nolls, “we have to be cognizant of our residents."

Council moved to reallocating funds within the water and wastewater department to remain within the overall budget.