The Town of Bashaw council asked a group organizing a fun run to get more community approval before a route for the event can be approved. The discussion was held at the July 16 regular meeting of council.

Councillors heard a virtual presentation from the S/Sgt. Bruce Holliday Memorial Run volunteer Scott Kohlmann; readers should note however that Coun. Kyle McIntosh declared a pecuniary interest and excused himself from the presentation.

The volunteer stated in his presentation this year’s run is scheduled to be held on Sept. 25 and that community outreach in 2024 was successful which included door-knocking and help from the Town of Bashaw. As well, Kohlmann stated organizers expect even more runners from the law enforcement world registering for the open event while it’s estimated about 800 youth will take part in the run.

The organizer noted that in 2024 funds raised through the run supported cross-country and track and field programs.

Kohlmann provided councillors with information on the charity fundraising event that is held within the boundaries of the town. Kohlmann confirmed some typical requests from past years, including certain road closures, some space in certain municipal buildings, some help communicating with the public about this event and a bit of alley space set aside.

Kohlmann also noted that, “Many decisions on the run will seem last minute due to potential labour disruption. Final confirmations of the run will come 72 hours prior to event start.”

In his presentation to council Kohlmann showed a draft route map and said one change was proposed from the 2024 route: organizers were asking for the closure of 56 Ave. in front of Bashaw Meadows seniors living facility which is located on the north side of town. During discussion it was noted that if this closure was approved it could mean blocking the main entrance to Bashaw Meadows.

Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Theresa Fuller objected by noting she didn’t think the town could approve blocking that entrance because in the event of a health emergency at Bashaw Meadows, a serious problem could occur.

Kohlmann was asked if the event organizers had discussed this proposal with Bashaw Meadows management and he responded no discussion had taken place.

Mayor Rob McDonald agreed with the CAO. “We can’t hamper their access,” said the mayor.

Kohlmann responded that event organizers will contact Bashaw Meadows and discuss this request with them.

Coun. Jackie Northey added that last year’s route seemed to work fine, and councillors could approve that route if volunteers wished; however, she also agreed that councillors couldn’t at the present time approve closing 56 Ave. as requested.

Kohlmann stated he’d contact Bashaw Meadows to discuss the request and return to councillors at a future meeting.

S/Sgt. Bruce Holliday was a former commander of the Bashaw RCMP detachment who was very well-liked and respected in the region; the run was named in his honour after Holliday passed away in 2023.