M.D. of Taber council meeting briefs from June 24

By Jared Vas
Taber Times

RCMP

Sgt. Stu Gemmill was not present at the council meeting to answer any questions, but despite this, the report was received as presented.

Chinook Country Shooters Club

Walter Hornby submitted a request on behalf of the CCSC for the 2025 IPSC Canada Pistol Nationals, expecting fewer participants than initially projected. The M.D. agreed to provide 25 picnic tables and $400 for prizes, with council approving a total in-kind donation of $2,000 along with the use of Taber picnic tables.

CAO Report

Reeve Miyanaga acknowledged rising costs in road maintenance, gravel pits, and hamlets starting in June. Gravel road upkeep is behind schedule due to equipment breakdowns, and a gravel crushing contract is pending award. No final plan exists yet for future gravel contracts.

Closed Session – Xplore Inc. UBF
Alberta Project

Council held a closed session to discuss the Xplore Inc. UBF Alberta Project related to broadband fiber installation. Afterward, staff were directed unanimously to gather further information on the proposal.

57 per cent RCMP fee increase was
announced

Miyanaga attended a police funding session where a 57 per cent RCMP fee increase was announced, but the M.D. has yet to receive formal notice. She emphasized the significant cost and intended to formally inquire with the Minister before the bill’s implementation in 2026.

Proclamation Request – Development Officers Week

The M.D. proclaimed September 23–26 as Alberta Development Officers Week despite conflicting proclamations, to recognize development work and related community factors. The decision was unanimous.

Council Meeting Scheduling

An additional council meeting was scheduled for July 11, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. to discuss a potential business opportunity, with the agenda to be made public and cover regular items.

Public Hearing Bylaw – First Reading

A procedural bylaw requiring electronic options for public hearings on planning and development received first reading. It also restricts holding extra hearings unless mandated by legislation.