Council Highlights for April 13, 2026

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. Unfortunately, due to a technical glitch there is no video available.  

Below is an overview of Council discussions and decisions from the Regular Council meeting on April 13, 2026: 

Office of the Chief Administrative Officer Report – Q1 2026 

The Chief Administrative Officer presented the first quarter report, providing an update on organizational priorities, key activities and emerging issues across the municipality, including grants received by Invest Olds, an update on Town Owned Properties, and upcoming delegations from the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) and Alberta Municipal Affairs.  

Council Action: Council received the Chief Administrative Officer Q1 2026 Report as presented. 

Bylaw 2026-09 – Public Open Spaces 

Council considered Bylaw 2026-09, which consolidates and modernizes three existing bylaws related to public places, parks and campgrounds. The update streamlines regulations, removes outdated or redundant content and aligns with related bylaws such as Land Use and Community Standards. It also introduces updated provisions for alcohol and cannabis use in public spaces to reflect current legislation and community expectations. 

Council Action: Council gave all three readings to Bylaw 2026-09 – Public Open Spaces. 

Bylaw 2026-10 – Land Use Bylaw 2025-14 Amendment 

Council considered Bylaw 2026-10, an amendment to the Land Use Bylaw affecting lands within the Vistas Area Structure Plan. The lands are identified as Phase 7 and are intended for low-density and multi-family residential development under the Traditional Neighbourhood District. 

The amendment would allow development to continue into Phase 7, building on the current progress in earlier phases. It also supports a broader range of housing types in the area, including options beyond detached homes, helping to create a more diverse and complete neighbourhood over time. 

Council Action: Council gave first reading to Bylaw 2026-10. A public hearing has been scheduled for May 25, 2026 at 1:00 PM in Council Chambers.  

Crosswalk Improvement Proposal 

Council reviewed the results of crosswalk assessments at 57 Avenue south of 54 Street and at 54 Street and 53 Avenue. The assessments identified safety concerns related to pedestrian activity, visibility and driver awareness at both locations. 

Recommended improvements include a pedestrian-activated crossing at 57 Avenue to better support frequent mid-block crossings, and a signalized crossing at 54 Street and 53 Avenue to improve visibility and reduce conflict between drivers and pedestrians. The combined estimated cost for both upgrades is $23,500, which can be accommodated within the existing budget. 

Council Action: Council approved the Crosswalk Improvement Proposal. 

2026 Operating and Capital Budget Adjustments 

Council reviewed the 2026 spring budget adjustments, which update both operating and capital budgets based on finalized assessment values and changes identified in the first few months of the year.  

The operating budget was adjusted by $1.13 million, reflecting updated revenues such as building permits and approved provincial grants, along with changes to expenses including salaries, regional programs and economic development. This brings the total 2026 Operating Budget to approximately $38.5 million. 

The capital budget increased by $1.18 million, including carry-forward projects from 2025 and new items such as municipal facility upgrades, infrastructure planning and improvements to community amenities. These changes do not impact the current year’s tax rate and brings the total 2026 Capital Budget to approximately $4.06 million.  

Council Action: Council approved the 2026 Operating and Capital Budget Adjustments as presented. 

2026 Tax Rate Bylaw 2026-11 – First Reading 

Council considered first reading of the 2026 Tax Rate Bylaw, which establishes the municipal tax rates required to fund services and operations. This bylaw reflects the approved budget and updated assessment values and is a key step in finalizing property taxation for the year. 

Council looked at two options for municipal tax revenue: 

Option 1: A 5% increase in total tax revenue, which would lower tax rates and cost the average household about $12.92 more per month. 

Option 2: Keeping tax rates the same as 2025, which would increase total tax revenue by 9.6% and cost the average household about $21.92 more per month. 

Option 1 is designed to balance the budget and meet current needs. While Option 2 provides additional capacity to build reserves and support future financial sustainability. 

In addition to municipal taxes, the provincial education property tax will increase by about $12.92 per month for the average household. This portion is set by the Government of Alberta and is not controlled by the Town. 

The next regular Council meeting is scheduled for April 27, 2026, at 1:00 PM. 
Visit www.olds.ca/councilmeetings for all meeting agendas and minutes.