Below is an overview of Council discussions and decisions from the Regular Council meeting on February 10, 2025:
Hon. Nathan Cooper, Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA)
Town of Olds Council is pleased to have MLA Cooper attend its February 10 Regular Council Meeting and provide an update to citizens. Doctor shortages are a concern, and the Province is making this a priority. MLA Cooper also referenced some expected upcoming changes to electoral boundaries although these have yet to be formally approved.
Council Action: MLA Cooper’s report was accepted for information.
Community Services Quarterly Report
The Community Services Quarterly Report provides a comprehensive update on Parks, Recreation, Community Development, and Communications and Engagement department activities. This report is submitted for information purposes aiming to provide stakeholders and key decision makers with a clear understanding of recent developments, achievements and challenges across the division.
Council Action: The fourth quarter report from Community Services was accepted for information.
Bylaw 2025-01 Repeal Bylaw (Special Events) (All readings)
To streamline processes and improve service delivery, Community Services developed Special Events Policy 232C. Reviewed by key departments and endorsed by leadership, this policy simplifies event planning for community members and external organizers, supports economic development and enhances the quality of life in Olds.
Council Action: Council repealed the previous Special Events Bylaw and accepted Special Events Policy 232C as presented.
Policy 101C Family and Community Support Services
Town of Olds is proud to partner with the Government of Alberta to deliver the provincial Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) program. This policy authorizes the Town’s participation in the provincial FCSS program and the administration of the Town of Olds FCSS External Grant Program.
Council Action: Council accepted Policy 101C Family and Community Support Services as presented.
Bylaw 2025-02 Records and Information Management (RIM) (All readings)
At their January 27, 2025, regular meeting, Council reviewed the Records and Information Management Bylaw and gave it first reading. Its approval will support the digitization of the Town’s records, ensuring alignment with current legislation and modernizing the system used for records and information management.
Council Action: Council accepted the bylaw as presented.
Bylaw 2025-03 Council & Council Committee Procedural Bylaw
During legal review, Administration will ask for advice on the most appropriate approval process for an electronic attendance request and include that addition when the bylaw is presented for first reading.
Council Action: Council has directed the CAO to obtain a legal review of this bylaw.
Tax Exemptions
The Municipal Government Act allows property tax exemptions, in whole or in part, for properties owned or leased by non-profit organizations that meet specific conditions under the Community Organization Property Tax Exemption Regulation (AR 281/98).
The applications submitted by Friends of the Grizzlys and Mountain View Lodge No 16 AF & AM were tabled at the January 27, 2025, Council meeting to allow for additional information to be reviewed. Administration has since received further details supporting these applications.
Council Action: The applications for property tax exemption were approved.
Olds Town Council seeks to be transparent and open with residents. These highlights touch briefly upon the key information presented and decisions made at the meeting. The next regular Council meeting is scheduled for February 24, 2025 at 1:00 PM.