Below is an overview of Council discussions and decisions from the Regular Council meeting on February 24, 2025:
Protective Services Quarterly Report
The Olds Fire Department saw a substantial decline in dollar loss from fires as well as a decrease in callouts for residential alarms, and commercial false alarms. Nine cadets were recruited for the 2024/25 class, and adjustments are being made to manage the increase in Emergency Service calls. Municipal Enforcement eliminated complaint backlogs shifting the focus to more proactive enforcement activities. Uptowne Olds continues to be a focus for RCMP Crime Reduction Unit and with parking enforcement Emergency Services conducted drone operator training and prepared for a spring emergency management exercise. Statistics and projections for all three branches were provided.
Council Action: The Q4 Protective Services Report was accepted for information.
RCMP Quarterly Report
The Q4 report includes crime and resource statistics along with a community letter. Upcoming town halls will gather community feedback on policing priorities; all officers are now equipped with body cameras.
Council Action: The Q4 RCMP Report was accepted for information.
Borrowing Bylaw 2025-04
ATB Financial requires the Town of Olds to renew its $500,000 borrowing bylaw annually as a safeguard for emergency expenses. To date it has never been used.
Council Action: Council gave all three readings and passed Borrowing Bylaw 2025-04 as presented.
Family & Community Support Services 2025 Grant Recommendations
The Town of Olds is providing $53,850 through the 2025 FCSS Grant to support local organizations delivering preventative social programs including initiatives that help communities identify social needs and response, promote community volunteer work, inform the public about available services, help family strengthen family life, enhance the quality of life for retired and semi-retired people, and support children and family social development. This cost-sharing initiative with the Province ensures efficient use of the funds and prevents duplication, maximizing impact.
Council Action: FCSS 2025 Grant approved and allocated as recommended by administration.
Commercial Gap Analysis
The Commercial Gap Analysis, supported by the Northern and Rural Economic Development grant, assessed the Town of Olds' retail landscape and provided key insights. Presented to Council, it highlights the Town’s efforts to support existing businesses and attract new ones, guiding future economic development.
Council Action: The Commercial Gap Analysis was accepted for information.
Mountain View Power Uptowne Storefront Improvement Program
The proposed MVP Uptowne Storefront Beautification Grant helps local businesses in Uptowne Olds enhance their storefronts, with up to $3,000 available per business for an approved application. With a total budget of $20,000, the grant aims to revitalize the area, attract more foot traffic, and benefit the community.
Council Action: The MVP Uptowne Storefront Beautification Grant was accepted for information.
4818 51 Street - Partnership Confirmed
The proposed sale of 4818 51 Street aims to generate $15-$20,000 in annual property tax revenue, provide affordable rental units, and spur mixed-use development in East Olds, aligned with the East Olds Area Redevelopment Plan. The Town is committed to optimizing property use for community and economic growth, including projects that make space available for community groups and partnering with the private sector to encourage development. More information can be found at www.olds.ca/partnership.
Council Action: The report on 4818 51 Street was accepted for information, and the Chief Administrative Officer was directed to finalize the property sale agreement.
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 March 10, 2025 at 1:00 PM. Visit www.olds.ca/councilmeetings for all meeting agendas and minutes.