Highlights from the MD of Taber’s January 13 Council Meeting MD of Taber’s council met on January 13

Posted on January 28, 2026 by Taber Times

By Nerissa McNaughton
Taber Times
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

First, the minutes from December 16 meeting were adopted. A large part of that meeting had centred around grazing leases. Ultimately, council approved the assignment of the Wenbourne Ranch Ltd. tax recovery grazing lease for specific land parcels to Roy Brewin Holdings Inc., but the motion to remove the lease’s expiration date of February 28, 2026, was defeated. Council approved the assignment of another Wenbourne Ranch Ltd. grazing lease to the Hutterian Brethren Church of Cameron, with the lease expiring on February 28, 2026. Council approved the assignment of a grazing lease from 314136 Alberta Ltd. to Wenbourne Ranch Ltd., also expiring on February 28, 2026.

Several amendments were made to the Grazing Lease Policy. Community pasture grazing lease annual rental rates will now be based on twice the Alberta Provincial Grazing Rate (Zone 1). A motion to extend transitional grazing lease terms to 10 years was defeated. However, tenants can now assign, sublet, or sell transitional leases within the five-year term. The policy was updated to allow the council to terminate leases if the land is unused for grazing for two or more years, with 30 days’ written notice. Tenants will receive $300 compensation for surface activities, such as geophysical operations, once the MD has received payment for the activity.

The previous meeting’s minutes also noted that a letter of advocacy will be sent to MLA Grant Hunter to highlight the importance of the Taber Regional Airport Expansion Feasibility Study and Master Plan Project. A $5,000 contribution was approved for the Enchant Golf Club Association’s irrigation upgrade project, contingent on grant funding approval. Council also provided a letter of support for the project, and a $2,500 donation was approved to support the Annual Farm and Ranch Stewardship Conference in Taber.

The meeting transitioned into new business, addressing a variety of topics that highlighted the region’s commitment to community development, environmental stewardship, and infrastructure planning.

Trail 77, a  network in the region, presented a request for funding to support its 2026 operations. The organization emphasized the importance of maintaining and expanding the trail system, which has become a hub for outdoor enthusiasts and community events.

Trail 77 outlined its plans for the upcoming season, which include maintenance, installing new signage, and constructing boardwalks and features using pressure-treated lumber. The group also highlighted its community involvement, with strong membership numbers and significant participation in events and maintenance days.

The 2026 calendar for Trail 77 is packed with events, including:

• Taber Tuff: July 11, 2026

• Tuff Oldman Duathlon: July 15, 2026

• Oldman Mayhem: July 18, 2026

• Gnarly Nibblets Kids Program: June 2026

• Weekly Group Runs and Rides: Starting April/May

• Weekly Beginner Group Ride: Starting April/May

• Twilight Run: August 2026

Trail 77 requested $10,000 in funding to support these initiatives, with the majority of the funds allocated for trail maintenance, signage, and materials for new features.

Council considered a memo regarding the Rural Road Infrastructure Working Committee, an initiative of the Intensive Livestock Working Group (ILWG). The committee aims to align the agricultural sector and rural municipalities to address the impact of intensive livestock operations on rural infrastructure while advocating for increased provincial funding.

The committee seeks representation from various sectors, including agriculture, municipal representatives, and technical experts.

Also discussed was the future of the former CPO building located at the old public works site on 52nd Street in Taber. Following environmental remediation work in the summer of 2025, additional contaminated soil was discovered beneath the building.

An environmental consultant recommended the removal of the structure to fully address the contamination and prevent potential groundwater migration. Council approved the recommendation to auction off the building to the highest bidder, with the purchaser responsible for its removal. The building, which had been repurposed for storage by the fire department, is no longer required for its original purpose.

The removal of the structure and its concrete foundation will allow for the excavation of contaminated soil, safeguarding the property’s value and usability.  With decisions that prioritize sustainability, community engagement, and long-term growth, council continues to demonstrate its commitment to enhancing the quality of life for residents and ensuring the region remains a vibrant and thriving part of southern Alberta.