Highlights from the Aug. 19 M.D. of Taber council meeting 

By Nerissa McNaughton
Taber Times
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Municipal District of Taber held its regular council meeting on August 19. With a full agenda and many important items to discuss, here are just a few of the many items that were covered.

 A letter addressed to Reeve Miyanaga from Alberta’s Deputy Premier Minister of Public Safety, Mike Ellis, provided updates on the ongoing review of the Police Funding Model (PFM).

The PFM, established in 2020, requires municipalities to contribute to front-line policing costs. Contributions were phased in, starting at 10 per cent in 2020-21 and reaching 30 per cent by 2023-24. However, rising costs due to collective bargaining agreements have created financial challenges for municipalities. To mitigate these challenges, the Alberta government froze municipal contributions for 2025-2026, assuming a larger share of policing costs.

If Cabinet had not implemented a freeze on municipal costs for the 2025-26 fiscal year, municipalities would have faced a staggering 57 per cent increase in their Police Funding Model (PFM) invoices. This sharp rise stems from the requirement to base calculations on the current costs of the Provincial Police Service Agreement (PPSA) for front-line policing. Many municipalities are not financially equipped to handle such a significant cost hike, especially since the increase is tied to the rising costs of the PPSA and does not reflect any direct improvements in policing services. The cost escalation is primarily a result of collective bargaining agreements between the federal government and the RCMP.

An independent review of the PFM, conducted by MNP, is underway, with a final report expected in September 2025. Municipalities will be informed of the outcomes later this fall, allowing time for budget planning.

Council discussed allocating $200,000 from the 2025 bridge replacement budget for the replacement of a structurally deficient bridge on Range Road 19-0. The current bridge, a concrete structure with timber abutments, can be replaced with a 2.4m diameter corrugated steel pipe (CSP) culvert. The project could be completed using internal staffing resources, resulting in cost savings and improved scheduling flexibility. The funds are available within the existing budget due to delays in other capital projects. There is some urgency noted, due to the current state of the bridge.

Council considered Bylaw No. 2022, which would allow the MD of Taber to borrow up to $6 million for an irrigation project in partnership with the Bow River Irrigation District. The funds would be borrowed for up to 15 years at a maximum interest rate of 5 per cent. Only the necessary amount will be borrowed, ensuring fiscal responsibility. The bylaw follows a legislated timeline, with final approval expected by November 2025.

Additionally, council reviewed a proposal to replace the Taber and District Airport Commission Bylaw with the new Airports Committee Bylaw No. 2021. Transitioning from an “Airport Commission” to an “Airports Committee” to better align with the committee’s advisory role. Expanding the committee to seven members would include representatives from Vauxhall Council and additional members-at-large. Updating funding procedures would integrate airport planning into the MD’s annual budget process. The proposed changes aim to enhance regional collaboration and streamline airport operations for both Taber and Vauxhall airports.

A big part of the agenda on the 19th centered on discussions and decisions on the offers to purchase Lots 18-22 & 29 (Blk 12 Plan 2310278) and three grazing lease assignments, a topic that continues to draw close scrutiny from all involved.

The MD of Taber Council continues to demonstrate its commitment to addressing key issues, improving infrastructure, and planning for the future of the community. Their proactive approach and dedication to transparency ensure that residents’ needs remain a top priority. To stay informed and have your voice heard, residents are encouraged to attend council meetings and participate in the decision-making process. Your input matters and is considered and heard.