[0:27] I know.

[0:42] » You bet.

[0:49] In the spirit of respect, authenticity, and reconciliation, the town of Slave

[0:52] Lakeake honors and acknowledges that we are situated on the traditional lands of

[0:56] sovereign First Nation within treaty territory. Home to indigenous, Matei and

[1:00] Inuit peoples who have occupied these lands since time immemorial. Councelor

[1:04] Gamick, >> make a motion to adopt the agenda as

[1:07] presented. >> Motion on the floor. Any further

[1:09] discussion? Call to question. Those in favor?

[1:12] And that is carried. Councelor Achoba. I'd

[1:18] » like to make a motion to adopt the minutes of previous meetings of council

[1:21] May 19, 2026 as presented. >> Motion on the floor. Any further

[1:26] discussion? Call to question those in favor? And that is carried. Councelor

[1:32] Hughes. >> I would like to move to accept the

[1:34] minutes from June 2nd, 2026 meeting as presented.

[1:38] » Motion on the floor. Any further discussion? Call to question. Those in

[1:42] favor and that is also carried. Perfect. We can move on to new business and

[1:47] reports. Kush, you're up first with our mill and overlay program

[1:54] contract order. Good evening, uh, mayor and council. The

[1:59] purpose of this report is to provide award recommendation to council for mill

[2:02] and overlay program approved for 2026. The 2026 uh winter season experienced

[2:08] above average snow accumulation and repeated freeze thaw cycles which

[2:11] accelerated deterioration of towns uh road network and resulted in significant

[2:16] increase in payment failures. The extent of payment distress would make routine

[2:20] patching in many location ineffective and uneconomical requiring more

[2:24] permanent rehabilitation. As a result, the street order program has been

[2:28] established to address some of the longer deteriorated road segments around

[2:32] town. The program includes uh milling existing ashalt surface, placing new

[2:36] ashalt overlays and undertaking localized base repairs uh where required

[2:41] to restore roadway structure while extending the size uh service life of

[2:44] the infrastructure and reducing long-term maintenance cost. The project

[2:49] was approved by council for inclusion in 2026 capital projects list with budget

[2:53] amount of $1 million. Request for proposal package was advertised on

[2:57] Alberta purchasing connection starting 11th June uh this year and uh was closed

[3:02] on June 26th this year at 2 2 p.m. Uh the request for proposal requested unit

[3:07] rate proposal based on estimated quantities of proposed work. Quantities

[3:12] were provided in the RFP document based on estimate for requesting cost

[3:15] proposals. Actual quantity uh will be determined on field uh in collaboration

[3:20] with the successful contractor. A site review with successful contractor

[3:24] will be conducted prior to finalizing the work sites to assess the extent of

[3:28] localized base repairs required at each location.

[3:32] The amount of base rehabilitation will directly influence the overall project

[3:36] cost and may affect the number of roadway segments that can be completed

[3:39] within the approved budget. Repair priority will be given to high volume

[3:43] sections of road with lower volume residential streets being considered as

[3:47] budget permits. The potential roadway sections identified initially for

[3:51] inclusion in the RFP are listed below. So southbound lane on main street

[3:55] between second a northwest and third a northwest adjacent to Royal Bank. Uh

[4:00] another section included was u caribou trail between main street and highway

[4:04] 88. Um one of the section on 6f southwest between caribou trail and

[4:08] sunset plaza. Um uh on the west approach one sections on uh residential stretch

[4:16] on 12th a and 9th street southeast. Um one of the residential section on sixth

[4:21] street northwest between 2nd have north northwest and third northwest and then

[4:25] residential section on 2nd street northeast between 4th northeast and

[4:29] third northeast. Upon closing four proposals were

[4:32] received uh with the following amount. Uh, Royal Concrete submitted a bid of

[4:36] 1,50,365. Pave Construction submitted a bid of u

[4:42] $944,532.50.

[4:46] E Construction submitted a proposal for $866,400

[4:51] and Canelson sand and gravel submitted a proposal for $1,27,500.

[4:57] All numbers are before GST. Evaluations of proposals were completed according

[5:02] the criteria listed in RFP document. uh various mandatory documents were

[5:06] requested. Uh price was weighted at 35%, past experience of similar project was

[5:11] weighted at 30%, ashalt supplier plant location was weighted at 15% and then

[5:16] schedule was weighted at 20%. All the submissions were found to be

[5:21] compliant in with RFP requirements. Based on our evaluation, the highest

[5:24] scoring proposal was submitted by e- construction limited and is recommended

[5:28] for award. Evaluation summary is provided as attachment one for

[5:32] reference. uh e- construction has completed several projects with similar

[5:36] scope in town and within the last five years. They have done reputable work in

[5:39] past and has the capacity to complete the proposed scope of work for the Olay

[5:44] program. As per tentative project schedule, they plan to mobilize on

[5:48] August 10th and demobilize on August 24th completing the project within

[5:53] couple weeks. Additionally, administration has come across

[5:56] microsurfacing process for extending the life of payment at a third of a cost of

[6:01] million overlay. It is a surface treatment consisting of manufactured

[6:05] aggregate, portlet cement and polymer modified ashfold emulsion. This

[6:09] technique may be utilized for increasing skid resistant, color contrast, uh rut

[6:13] filling, longitudinal and transfer character pairs, leveling of proper

[6:17] surface drainage, filling small potholes etc. It can be applied on arterial

[6:22] collector, residential or industrial road and it u said to have extend the

[6:28] life of asphalt by 7 to 10 years. It greatly benefits the municipality as

[6:33] they do not need to invest millions of dollars in full road rehabilitation

[6:37] project. Uh and as such much uh multiple road sections can be completed in one

[6:42] budget year instead of mill and overlay on one or two roadway sections.

[6:49] Administration would like to propose doing pilot microsurfacing application

[6:52] on main street between highway 2 and 6v south utilizing budget from the street

[6:57] overlay project. uh that stretch of main street is undergoing fast deterioration

[7:01] is and is currently not on 10-year capital plan for rehabilitation.

[7:05] Completing microsurfacing will help extend the lifespan of payment for

[7:09] fraction of cost while allowing capital investment to be diverted to other

[7:13] failing sections in town. If approved, uh administration will evaluate the

[7:17] performance of m uh pilot microsurfacing application on Main Street and based on

[7:22] the results of that assessment, recommendation for future microurfacing

[7:25] program will be brought forward to council. So council may choose uh either

[7:29] of the following options. So the first option is proceed with Milan overlay

[7:33] program by awarding the contract to recommended contractor and grant uh

[7:37] pilot application of microsurfacing on main street between highway 2 and uh 6f

[7:42] south. Um or the other option is proceed with mill and overlay program by

[7:46] awarding the contract to the recommended contractor and defer the pilot

[7:49] application of microsurfacing uh between highway 2 and 6f south to another year.

[7:55] The project funding is supported by a combination of uh Canada community

[7:59] building fund and road reserves uh combining total of $1 million. Project

[8:05] will be carried out as per infrastructure standards. Uh

[8:08] communication will be released to inform residents before commencement of any

[8:11] work using town social media platforms and warrant alerts. So the internet

[8:16] program would help improve road conditions within town limit uh for uh

[8:20] allowing better rideability experience to the users and the work will also

[8:24] extend useful lifespan of the road infrastructure

[8:28] and our recommendation is to award the contract for 2026 million overlay

[8:32] program to e- construction limited while also granting the pilot application of

[8:35] microsurfacing on main street between highway 2 and 6f

[8:39] south.

[8:46] I have a couple questions. Let's cancel something there. Okay. Um,

[8:52] so the pilot microservicing the cost for

[8:56] that is that included in the project proposals?

[8:59] » No, those were only like mill and overlay program only. So, the cost, the

[9:04] budgetary number that we got for Main Street, um that's roughly 12,000 square

[9:09] meters and they gave us a price of like roughly $16 a square meter. So, which is

[9:15] close to $180,000ish. >> So, that's on top of that.

[9:20] » Yes. >> And was it only the one uh like E

[9:23] Construction was the only one that does the microsurfacing? No, e- construction

[9:26] will do the mill and overlay >> but the microsurfacing can be done by um

[9:31] western ashalt. >> Okay.

[9:33] » Uh or west west can seal coating which is uh one of their u kind of like

[9:37] installer >> and there is another company u fath

[9:41] industries uh but I believe they are busy with their other projects. So we'll

[9:45] try with west seal coating >> um and see how it goes. And then my

[9:50] other question is more to do about the schedule section on the matrix.

[9:55] » Yes. >> So we said it was August 10th 24th the

[9:59] scheduling for e- construction. So uh one of the other contractors had the

[10:04] next score of 3.5. So how much delayed what's an example of when that delay

[10:09] would? >> So like roughly based on my estimate

[10:11] something like this can be done in two weeks. So e- construction was bang on

[10:15] that mark. Uh and hence they are getting four points and I think pave was just

[10:20] between two and 3 weeks >> to to for completion.

[10:23] » Yes. >> So that's that's not based on start

[10:25] date. It's based on time to complete the project.

[10:27] » Yes. Yes. >> Uh that's my questions for now.

[10:32] Councelor Gramick. >> Uh is there something based on start

[10:35] date >> ever? Out of curiosity. Everyone was I

[10:40] mean like the only thing is maybe was suggesting to start earlier um but

[10:45] schedule is more to look at if >> the length of once they start this one.

[10:50] » Yes. >> Yeah. Okay.

[10:53] » Thank you >> councelor Hughes. Um just with the uh

[10:56] again the evaluation matrix here Kush I'm just curious when it says the

[11:00] ashvault supplier plant location and that's weighted at 15%. I noticed e

[11:04] construction as the lowest on that one. Does that mean that they're not using

[11:07] like a local >> Yeah. So, so they are bringing in so

[11:11] they have their own plant in Whitecourt. >> In White Court.

[11:13] » Yes. Which they have utilized for other projects in the past. Um, so which is

[11:18] what they have been proposing that to haul the ashall from WhiteCore plant

[11:21] while the other uh proponents were proposing to use uh pave pave uh plant

[11:27] in town. >> Okay.

[11:28] » Uh and Royal Concrete has their own plant. So Royal would be using their own

[11:32] plant. >> Their own. Okay. Okay. So that's how

[11:34] that's being weighted. Yes. Okay. Um, and sorry, I just want to I know Mayor

[11:38] Ward clarified this, but I just want to So, the million dollars here is for the

[11:41] regular plan, but it's 180k for the microsurfacing pilot project from

[11:46] Highway 2 to 6th Avenue. >> Yes.

[11:48] » And that can only be done by a certain company?

[11:50] » Yes. >> Okay. So, how come that's not a separate

[11:54] motion, right? Because aren't we don't we want

[11:58] to put a dollar value on that then? Because this is all kind of reading in

[12:02] one motion here. So what we what we wanted to do is because council has

[12:05] allotted $1 million to improve roads, right? So roads can be improved through

[12:10] million overlay or they can be improved through microsurfacing. So what we are

[12:15] doing because we came across microsurfacing in the like after we we

[12:19] went through the budget conversation with council

[12:22] » right >> so that is where we thought you know

[12:24] both both products will be extending the life of the payment why don't we utilize

[12:28] the same funds and just do uh mill and overlay on certain sections of the road

[12:33] and then try this pilot pro application on main street

[12:36] » okay but the budget item for this is only approved at $1 million right aren't

[12:41] we going to be over 180k >> yes so

[12:43] » we're $866,000

[12:46] that's based on estimated quantities. >> Yeah.

[12:49] » So we had that six sections of road. We will go around with e construction

[12:55] following the contract award and we will take them around and they will say hey

[12:59] this one you don't need base repairs because some of the base repairs dollars

[13:04] have been built into this $866,000. >> Okay. So if some sections don't need

[13:10] base repairs then there is some surplus that can go towards microsurfacing.

[13:15] » Okay. You always plan a bit of contingency based on this as well though

[13:18] right? >> Yes. Yes.

[13:19] » So what percentage of contingency? >> So I I I didn't carry like 10 or 15% of

[13:24] because it's a straight straight like you're just doing surface work right. So

[13:27] okay >> it's more like contingency is more

[13:30] » carried for for like deeper infrastructure like where you don't

[13:35] know. for this level of work, it's not necessary as you do it in the past with

[13:38] sewer lines or water mains, etc. Okay, thank you for clarifying, Kate.

[13:43] » Alex, do you want to weigh in? >> Yeah. So, two things. If you look back,

[13:46] [clears throat] um option five and six, the residential, if if we did get in

[13:50] close to the budget. We want to with the 180,000 we're going to get to the

[13:54] million, but if we did get close to the budget, those two could be subject to

[13:57] deletion to make sure that overlay still gets done on Main Street. And there is

[14:01] two motions. If you look under the motions, there is two motions. move to

[14:04] accept deconstruction and move to do the overlay test project. So, there's two

[14:08] motions in there. >> Yeah. No, I understand that, but it

[14:10] doesn't say a dollar value. >> Oh, okay.

[14:12] » So, I didn't want to just make a motion without dollar value.

[14:15] » So, so it's it's going to with the two projects will not go over the $1

[14:18] million. >> Yes.

[14:20] » Okay. That's you guys have already. Thank you. I just want that to be very

[14:22] clear. Thank you. >> Okay.

[14:26] » Councelor Troba. I'd like to move that council awards the

[14:31] contract for 2026 mill and overlay program to e- construction limited.

[14:37] Okay.

[14:40] There's a motion on the floor is the pilot surfacing one too.

[14:45] » Oh, that's the next one. Okay. Sorry, I was I was above on option one. All

[14:50] right. There's a motion on the floor. Do we have any further discussion on that?

[14:54] Call to question those in favor? And that one is carried. Councelor

[15:00] Williams. >> I'd like to move that council grants uh

[15:04] admiss ad administration to proceed with the pilot application of microsurfacing

[15:09] on main street between highway 2 and 6 a south south.

[15:13] Okay, there's a motion on the floor. Any further discussion? Called question.

[15:16] Those in favor and that one is also carried.

[15:21] » Okay, excellent.

[15:25] Moving to the next one. speed radar signs.

[15:30] » So the purpose of this report is to seek council approval for the purchase and

[15:33] installation of two speed radar signs at the start of shooter park playground

[15:37] zone. So administration has recently received multiple complaints from

[15:41] residents regarding motorists traveling at excessive speeds through the shooter

[15:45] park playground zone and failing to reduce their speed upon entering the

[15:48] reduced spa speed area. In addition to the public concerns, a recent rear-ended

[15:53] collision incident occurred within the playground zone where a vehicle was

[15:57] stopped to allow pedestrian to cross. Uh while there were no serious injuries, um

[16:01] the incident highlights the importance of improving driver awareness and speed

[16:05] compliance in an area with frequent pedestrian activity. Uh Shooter Park is

[16:09] one of the popular park within the community and with schools out for

[16:13] summer vacation um pedestrian volumes are expected to increase as more

[16:17] families and children access the park and its amenities. The playground zone

[16:22] also contains two pedestrian crosswalk further increasing the potential for

[16:25] vehicle pedestrian conflicts if motorists motorists are not attentive to

[16:30] or traveling at appropriate speeds. Historically, photo radar enforcement

[16:34] deterred uh speeding within community. Uh with photo radar enforcement no

[16:39] longer operating, compliance is now primarily dependent on RCMP and

[16:42] community peace officer enforcement. Uh given the available resources,

[16:46] enforcement personnel cannot be present at every location throughout the day,

[16:50] making engineering measures an important uh component for improving traffic

[16:54] safety. administration is proposing the installation of postmounted speed radar

[16:58] sign at the beginning of shooter park playground zone on third a northeast and

[17:02] sixth street northeast. Uh speeder signs actively displays drivers current speed

[17:07] and provide immediate feedback as motorists enter the reduced speed zone.

[17:11] Uh studies have shown that dynamic speed displays are effective at reducing at at

[17:16] increasing driver awareness and encouraging voluntary speed reduction

[17:20] particularly in school and uh playground zone where pedestrian activity is high.

[17:24] uh technical data sheet of the proposed speed radar sign is attached to this

[17:27] report for reference. Uh the proposed installation is intended um as an inim

[17:33] traffic calming measure that that can be implemented quickly while administration

[17:37] continue to monitor traffic operations and evaluate whether additional traffic

[17:41] safety improvements may be warranted in the future. The installation will also

[17:46] demonstrate the town's proactive response to public concerns and ident

[17:50] and and identified safety risk through the implementation of practical

[17:54] engineering measures. Uh the proposed signs are built with um built in with

[17:58] other capabilities like capturing traffic volume data, speed statistics,

[18:02] capturing 85th percentile speed uh which is industry standard used by traffic

[18:07] consultants in evaluating the effectiveness of traffic calming uh

[18:11] capturing percentage of vehicles u complying posted speed limit generating

[18:15] speed trends throughout the day etc. uh such data will help administration to

[18:20] monitor traffic patterns and identify if additional safety measures or targeted

[18:24] enforcement is needed. If implemented measures are effective through this play

[18:28] playground zone, then such measures may be considered for school zones and other

[18:33] playground zones as required within the town. Uh council may proceed with

[18:37] administration's proposal for installing the speed radar signs at the said

[18:40] location or council may direct administration to conduct traffic

[18:43] assessment at this location. administration requested quotation from

[18:48] two separate vendors. Both vendors provided canoe pricing and upon

[18:52] comparison um ATS traffic provided the best valued quotation. U based on the

[18:57] quotation each sign will cost u $5,21.97 before GST. Uh sourcing of two signs

[19:05] will cost altogether $10,43.94 before GST. Each sign come with 95 watt

[19:13] solar panel with required mounting kits. The sign can be installed by our own

[19:18] public works crew and as per our finance department the sign can be covered

[19:21] either through the provided operating or capital funds for 2026 or they can be

[19:26] also be funded through under unrestricted surplus.

[19:30] Transportation association of Canada's guidelines will be followed when

[19:33] installing the speed radar signs. uh communication will be released to the

[19:37] residents notifying of the change in signage using town social media platform

[19:42] and voant alerts. Uh this proposed initiative would enhance safety of

[19:46] residents and visitors. Um as such our recommendation is uh for council to

[19:51] approve the uh proposal of installing speeder signs at the start of shooter

[19:55] park playground zone on third a northeast and 6th street northeast uh to

[19:59] increase compliance with playground speed zone while enhancing overall

[20:02] safety of residents and visitors. Okay,

[20:14] » Council Granick. >> Yeah, if no one has anything, I'll make

[20:17] a motion. Nobody. Nothing. Nobody. Oh, Cindy does.

[20:22] Sorry. Go ahead, >> Councelor Williams.

[20:24] » Hi. Thank you. I'm just wondering, so will these signs be mounted permanently

[20:29] somewhere or are they able like someone can't just come and pick them up and

[20:33] take them, right? be permanently mounted there.

[20:36] » Yes, they were mounted on a sign >> on each corner.

[20:38] » Yes. >> Okay.

[20:40] » Okay. And then um what type of maintenance is associated with them? I

[20:44] know you said they're running on solar panels.

[20:46] » Yes. >> So all the data that you're collecting

[20:49] will be accessed just >> through Bluetooth. So we just have to be

[20:53] in vicinity of the sign and we can download the data on the app. Um and the

[20:58] other maintenance required would be during snow season public works will

[21:02] have to go and move the snow off the like solar panels. That's it.

[21:05] » Okay. Okay. That was my only question then.

[21:08] » Alex, do you want to add? >> Yeah, just um so we do have three other

[21:11] signs in town. Um for clarification, the batteries are here. We found that

[21:15] there's some computer issues which are also being ordered right now. All of

[21:18] these are movable. So they are on a public

[21:20] » that's those are the only ones I've ever seen which is why I was

[21:23] » Yeah. So, they're out first, but they can be moved by our own public works

[21:25] crew at no cost to us. Um, so after this one, we can move them to another

[21:29] playground zone or any other area of town. The difference between the ones we

[21:33] have and these ones, the ones we have now just kind of flash if you go fast.

[21:36] These ones actually go red, they flash, they really bring So, you've probably

[21:39] seen them in other communities. The reason we want to go with these ones as

[21:41] a playground zone is they really bring to your attention when you're going

[21:44] faster than supposed to speed limit. So, and and in six months, we can move them

[21:47] to another school zone, another playground zone. So, they're permanent,

[21:50] but we can move them at our at our need around town.

[21:55] » Okay. >> And they're very basic maintenance. Um

[21:57] the peace officer or IT crew can go download the information. Um they're

[22:01] pretty standard. Yeah. Pretty low maintenance.

[22:04] » Yeah. Um I was just wondering like the effectiveness of it just uh because I

[22:08] know the ones on the highway, do they collect data as well?

[22:11] » Yeah. >> And we do once they're functioning

[22:13] again, we do have the ability, our IT department has spent a lot of time in

[22:15] the last couple months um learning about them. Okay.

[22:18] » You have to get pretty close to them with a laptop, but you can print all

[22:21] that. Um, there another tool in the tool box.

[22:24] » Yeah, I would be very interested to see. >> Yeah, another tool in the tool, but it's

[22:27] not, you know, there's still there it's a sign that people have to pay attention

[22:31] to versus, you know, actual foot feet on the ground enforcement, which we've

[22:35] we've asked our local R&P peace officer to do as well.

[22:38] » Okay. Awesome. Thank you. >> Thank you.

[22:44] » Any further questions from council? Councelor

[22:53] Grick. >> I'll make a motion that council approves

[22:56] the leisure economic assistance program policy as presented. Oh, sorry. I'm on

[23:01] the wrong page. >> My god.

[23:04] Someone else jump in. I had it right in front of me.

[23:07] » Councelor Chova's got it. I move that council approves

[23:12] administration's proposal of installing speed radar signs at the start of

[23:17] Shooter Park playground zone on Third Avenue Northeast and Six

[23:23] Streets Northeast. >> Okay, we have a motion on the floor. Is

[23:26] there any further discussion? Call the question. Those in favor and

[23:31] that one is carried. Okay, thanks Kush. >> Thank you.

[23:35] » Now, next report. Community services. >> Joe, the floor is yours. They cut me

[23:41] off, Joel. I was trying to get ahead for you there.

[23:47] » Good evening, Mayor and Council. I am presenting two reports tonight. The

[23:51] first being an update with regards to the MRC recreation center. The purpose

[23:56] of this report is to provide council with an update on the multi-rec center

[24:00] operations, major events, recreation programming, facility utilization,

[24:04] staffing developments, and upcoming priorities for the period of January

[24:07] through August 2026. The MRC continues to serve as one of the

[24:11] town's primary recreational community and event facilities throughout 2026.

[24:15] The facility has supported diverse range of regional sporting events, educational

[24:19] gatherings, community programs, and special events while maintaining high

[24:23] service standards, and strong community participation. The continued demand for

[24:27] both facility rentals and recreation programming highlights the MRC's role as

[24:31] an important contributor to community wellness, social development, and local

[24:35] economic activity. One of the most significant events hosted during the

[24:38] reporting period was the Treaty8 First Nations Cup in March. The 4-day

[24:42] tournament attracted approximately a thousand visitors per day and featured

[24:46] 38 teams competing across three divisions. The event generated

[24:49] substantial facility utilization and contributed to local economic activity

[24:53] through accommodations, food services, fuel purchases, and retail spending

[24:57] within the community. Accommodation was less of an issue than previous years

[25:01] with organizers happy to be able to book accommodations for their teams well in

[25:06] advance of the tournament. Facility staff successfully supported tournament

[25:09] operations and maintain service levels, high service levels uh throughout the

[25:14] event, resulting in very positive feedback from organizers regarding the

[25:17] quality of service and the facility management. The current two-year

[25:21] agreement with Treaty 8 First Nations Cup concluded following this year's

[25:24] event. administration is currently working with organizers to secure a new

[25:28] multi-year agreement with further discussions expected following the

[25:31] organization's board meeting in September of this year. In June, the MRC

[25:36] hosted another successful Northern Lakes College convocation. The event

[25:39] represented the institution's largest graduating class to date with

[25:43] approximately 1,200 graduates recognized over two days. Daily attendance exceeded

[25:48] a thousand visitors and generated sign significant activity within the

[25:52] facility. Event organizers provided positive feedback regarding facility

[25:56] cleanliness, operational support, and staff assistance throughout the planning

[25:59] and execution process. Northern Lakes College has expressed interest in

[26:03] returning to the MRC for its 2027 convocation ceremonies. The successful

[26:08] hosting of large-scale regional events continues to demonstrate the value of

[26:11] the MRC as a destination facility capable of supporting major gatherings.

[26:16] These events not only enhance community profile and visibility, but also

[26:19] contribute to local economic development by attracting visitors from throughout

[26:23] the from throughout the region. [clears throat] Excuse me. The reopening

[26:27] of the Racket Center within Arena 2 occurred in April, several days ahead of

[26:31] the planned schedule. Utilization has remained consistent since the opening,

[26:35] reflecting ongoing community demand for indoor recreational opportunities during

[26:39] the spring months. To support continued growth in racket sports, MRC hosted

[26:44] staff hosted a pickle ball tournament on April 25th. The event attracted 18 teams

[26:48] competing across three divisions and was wellreceived by participants. The

[26:53] increasing popularity of pickle ball presents opportunities for future

[26:56] programming expansion and tournament hosting. Spring programming concluded in

[27:00] May with the completion of several youth initiatives, including the GOG girls and

[27:04] fundamental skills programs. Participation in the GoG Girls program

[27:07] increased by 100% compared to previous sessions, growing from 6 to 12

[27:11] participants. The program provides girls in grade 5 through eight with

[27:14] opportunities to develop confidence, leadership skills, wellness practices,

[27:18] healthy lifestyle habits through activities focused on self-care, mental

[27:22] wellness, healthy eating, and body positivity. And this is a program we

[27:27] hope to expand even further moving forward in the future. The increase in

[27:30] registration demonstrates continued demand for youth focused programming and

[27:34] highlights the importance of providing inclusive recreation opportunities that

[27:37] support personal development and community engagement that are not

[27:40] necessarily sportsbased. In May, staff also delivered the annual bike rodeo in

[27:45] partnership with primary care Alberta, the RCMP, municipal enforcement and

[27:49] emergency medical services. Despite the uncertainty weather that we had been

[27:53] having and those conditions, the event attracted 15 participants and provided

[27:57] valuable bicycle safety education for our local youth. During the spring, uh

[28:03] on the staffing front and program development, the town successfully

[28:06] recruited a new programming coordinator who has assumed the responsibility for

[28:09] planning and coordinating our community programming initiatives. Early

[28:13] priorities for the role have included the organization of the recent candidate

[28:16] celebrations and preparation for upcoming fall and winter programming.

[28:20] The town has also recruited a new camp coordinator to oversee the summer splash

[28:23] program. Staff recruitment and retention remains ongoing operational priorities

[28:28] throughout the recreation sector. Um, as we've discussed at past council

[28:32] meetings, competition for qualified recreation professionals continues to

[28:36] present challenges across across Alberta for its municipalities, making

[28:40] successful recruitment efforts particularly important to maintaining

[28:43] service delivery standards for residents and provide opportunities for local

[28:47] summer staff to improve and increase skills. The department is excited to

[28:52] provide opportunities for local summer staff to increase their leadership and

[28:55] program skills. And in looking at our summer splash uh staff today and working

[29:01] with them, we have a number of new staff, which is exciting to see that

[29:04] turnover and new opportunities for our youth in the community uh for learning

[29:09] and employment skills. Uh preparations for Canada Day started in May. This

[29:14] year's theme was a blast from the past featuring a variety of family oriented

[29:18] activities including community pancake breakfast which was cooked by the Lesser

[29:22] Slave Lake Regional Fire Service. They served over,200 pancakes during the

[29:26] breakfast. Uh the day included a costume contest, tug-of-war, egg relay, race

[29:31] competitions, moose calling, and the watermelon eating contest which saw in

[29:36] the in the children's division 38 participants, the youth division 28

[29:40] participants, and our 14 plus division saw 18 participants. This was followed

[29:45] by face painting and other interactive programming as well as some live

[29:48] entertainment. Sponsorship support from local organizations and businesses

[29:52] continues to enhance the event while reducing municipal cost. Uh Canada Day

[29:57] celebrations took place at the MRC starting at 10 a.m. And personally, a

[30:01] big shout out and thank you to the dozen or so sponsors from local community that

[30:06] really made this event uh possible and so uh enjoyable this season.

[30:12] Registration for the summer splash day camp program opened on May 25th and

[30:16] generated strong committee interest with registrations reaching more than 50%

[30:20] capacity for the program shortly after opening which was great to see. This

[30:26] year's programming emphasizes local experiences and community connections

[30:30] through planned visits to community facilities and attractions including the

[30:33] fireh hall, Eastshore Athletics, Devonshshire Beach, Legacy Center, and

[30:37] the Northern Lakes Aquatic Center as well as a trip to the airport to see the

[30:40] wildfire planes. The continued popularity of summer splash de

[30:44] demonstrates the importance of affordable and accessible summer

[30:46] programming for local families while supporting youth engagement throughout

[30:50] the summer months. And we were able to interviewing the budget with staff

[30:55] continue the summer playground program at Hill to Even Park on Tuesdays and

[30:58] Thursdays from 11 to 3. And this is led by our playground activity leaders and

[31:03] allows children to drop in anytime during those hours and do crafts,

[31:06] activities, and games with our leaders. Our first day of the program was on June

[31:10] 30th and we saw 20 children come out to participate.

[31:14] So for upcoming events, the MRC continues to attract major community and

[31:18] regional events throughout the summer. Roland Mitchner Secondary School

[31:21] utilized the fieldhouse for its graduation banquet, while the Meti

[31:24] Nation's 98th citizens gathering is scheduled for August. The citizens

[31:29] gathering is expected to attract approximately 1,200 participants per day

[31:33] over a three-day period and will utilize the entire facility over those three

[31:37] days. The event will feature meetings, presentations, networking opportunities,

[31:42] vendor displays, and banquet functions. Like other large-scale events hosted at

[31:46] the MRC, the gathering is expected to generate positive economic impacts for

[31:50] local businesses and accommodation providers. The return of summer hockey

[31:54] camps to the MRC will provide additional recreational opportunities for local

[31:58] youth while increasing facility utilization during the offseason. And

[32:01] we've had a couple new camps join our previously scheduled uh camp providers

[32:06] uh in Arena 1 this year as well. The camps have attracted participants from

[32:11] both Slave Lake and surrounding communities, generating activity within

[32:14] the facility and supporting local economic activity. Administration is

[32:19] continuing to work with camp organizers to explore opportunities for future

[32:22] programming and extended participation in the future. Looking ahead,

[32:26] administration will begin planning for fall recreation programming and winter

[32:30] facility operations. Staff have met with ice user groups, including the new Slave

[32:34] Lake Jun Wolves organization to discuss facility allocations, scheduling

[32:39] requirements, and operational needs for the upcoming ice season. And I'm happy

[32:43] to share and add to this report that the agreement with the Slave Lake Wolves for

[32:47] the ice usage and uh use of the facility was signed off this afternoon.

[32:53] Now wrapping up some of our operational challenges uh and opportunities. The

[32:57] continued success of major events and recreation programming de demonstrates

[33:01] strong demand for MRC services. However, increased facility utilization also

[33:05] creates some operational pressures related to staffing, scheduling,

[33:09] facility maintenance, and event coordination. As the town continues to

[33:12] attract larger regional events, opportunities exist to further position

[33:16] the MRC as a destination venue capable of hosting tournaments, conferences,

[33:21] cultural gatherings, and community celebrations. These opportunities have

[33:24] the potential to generate additional economic benefits while increasing

[33:27] facility revenues and community visibility. At the same time,

[33:31] maintaining high levels of customer service and facility quality will

[33:35] require ongoing attention to staffing scheduling capacity. administration will

[33:40] continue to pursue strategic partnerships, event attraction

[33:43] opportunities, and programming enhancements that support council's

[33:45] goals of fostering a vibrant, healthy, and connected community. In conclusion,

[33:51] the first eight months, the first eight months of 2026 have marked by strong

[33:56] facility utilization, successful event hosting, increased program

[33:59] participation, and positive community engagement.

[34:03] administration remains committed to maintaining a high service standard

[34:06] while identifying opportunities to enhance programming and strengthening

[34:09] partnerships. And as the director of this department, I'm very proud of the

[34:13] staff at the MRC at our pool, all of our facility staff, and my team of managers

[34:19] here at the town. My recommendation to council is the council receives the

[34:23] multi-rec center operational update report for information.

[34:31] » [clears throat] >> Open the floor to questions from

[34:33] council.

[34:37] Councelor Ba, thanks so much for the report. Joe, just

[34:42] a quick comment. So, it looks like we seem to be getting more non-sporting

[34:48] events like these conferences. We've looks like we've had a few and word is

[34:53] getting out that >> we are uh staff are actively promoting,

[34:57] reaching out. We've got some concerts coming to town that are at the Legacy

[35:00] Center that wasn't mentioned in this report. Uh that was done in part. One of

[35:03] our staff members really took an active effort to see if we could be included in

[35:06] that tour and to upsell the venue as as a as a really good venue for to be on

[35:12] their tour for the community. So that's an example of the work they're putting

[35:15] in and uh the goals for sponsorship and sales within the building are also on

[35:20] the plan for the fall season to increase that revenue as well. So we have a

[35:25] really strong team across uh the departments with that fall under the

[35:29] umbrella of community services and again they've done some really terrific work

[35:32] from uh January to date and I expect them to continue that moving forward.

[35:37] » Excellent because yeah it just seems to you do one and it's rolling from there.

[35:42] So >> that's nice to see.

[35:45] » Councelor Hughes. >> Yeah, thank you. Yeah, I would agree

[35:48] with councelor Bows. I'm really happy to hear that um we continue to be busy at

[35:52] the MRC. Um and just a general comment of thank you and and gratitude from

[35:56] myself uh to your whole team. Uh since I started on council, I really wanted to

[36:00] see the MRC facility just fully utilized as it should be. And I really love your

[36:06] comment about also non-sporting events taking place there as well. I'm really

[36:11] feeling like our programming is very well-rounded and that there's something

[36:15] for everyone in our community. uh and that's as it should be. Um so just well

[36:20] done to you and your team. I think these improvements the last couple years are

[36:23] great and that they're a reflection of uh good leadership and good staffing and

[36:27] I'm very happy to uh to see the great things that have been going on. So thank

[36:31] you. >> Thank you. The uh METI Nation's 98th uh

[36:35] citizens gathering in August uh came about with a fair amount of hard work um

[36:40] and site tours and really promoting the community and what the facility and the

[36:44] staff have to offer and that really helped uh push that through to coming to

[36:52] uh to Slave Lake.

[37:00] Councelor Williams. >> All right. Well, I would like to move

[37:05] that council accepts the multi-rec center operational update report for

[37:10] information. Motion on the floor. Any further discussion? Call to question.

[37:14] Those in favor and that is carried.

[37:19] Okay. On to report

[37:25] 4.4. Right. Uh in the effort for the purposes

[37:31] of the report is to present the proposed leisure economic assistance program

[37:35] policy for council's consideration and adoption. Uh as council is aware uh many

[37:41] of us as directors have been reviewing past policy within our departments and

[37:45] this policy had not been updated since 2015. Uh so it was come to my attention

[37:50] that it was time to update the policy and make it clear in relation to

[37:53] eligibility and documentation and the application process. So that's why uh

[37:58] this policy is being presented this evening. The policy establishes a formal

[38:02] framework for the town of Slave Lake to provide recreation and leisure fee

[38:06] assistance to eligible residents who experience financial barriers to

[38:09] participation. The policy is intended to support fair, transparent, and

[38:13] consistent administration of the program while improving access to town operated

[38:17] recreation facilities. Access to recreational leisure opportunities

[38:21] contributes to individual health, family well-being, and social inclusion, youth

[38:25] development, and overall community quality of life. For some residents,

[38:28] program fees, admissions, memberships, or related cost may create a barrier to

[38:32] participation in town recreation and leisure services buildings. The proposed

[38:36] leisure economic assistance plan, referred to as LEAP, is intended to

[38:40] reduce these barriers by providing eligible low-income residents and

[38:43] residents experiencing demonstrated financial hardship with approved fee

[38:47] assistance. The policy provides council level direction for the program and

[38:51] establishes the roles of council administration applicants and

[38:54] participating departments. The policy was developed to reflect municipal best

[38:58] practices for fee assistance programs, including clear eligibility

[39:02] requirements, defined administrative responsibilities, privacy protection,

[39:06] consistent application review, annual review, recordkeeping, and an appeal

[39:11] process for applicants whose requests are denied, reduced, suspended, or

[39:15] canceled. The proposed policy creates a structured and accountable approach for

[39:19] administrating for administrating recreational leisure fee assistance

[39:23] within the town. It confirms the council establishes the poly policy and

[39:27] considers program funding through the annual budget process while

[39:30] administration is responsible for implementation application review

[39:34] eligibility verification recordkeeping reporting and day-to-day program

[39:38] administration. Eligibility is based on residency with the town of Slave Lake

[39:42] and the MD of Lesser Slave River, financial need and participation in

[39:46] eligible town operated recreation facilities. The policy allows

[39:50] administration to verify eligibility through standard documentation such as

[39:54] proof of residency, income information, or proof of participation in an income

[39:58] tested benefit program. It allows for alternate verification in exceptional

[40:03] circumstances where residents may face barriers to providing standard

[40:06] documentation such as homelessness, family violence, displacement, recent

[40:10] arrival to Canada, sudden job loss, or other hardships. The policy also

[40:14] provides flexibility for administration to establish benefit levels, maximum

[40:18] annual assistance amounts, application forms, documentation requirements,

[40:22] service standards, and related procedures. This approach allows the

[40:26] town to adjust operational details as recreation fees, community needs, income

[40:30] measures, and available budgets change in the future without requiring frequent

[40:34] amendments to this council policy. Confidentiality and protection of

[40:38] personal information are addressed through provisions requiring compliance

[40:41] with the protection of privacy act and the town's record management

[40:45] requirements. The policy limits access to applicant information to authorize

[40:48] staff who require the information to administer the program. Uh in talking

[40:53] with IT and administration, financial administration, we would be looking at

[40:57] electronic retention of documents for this program moving forward for safety

[41:02] and security reasons. The policy includes a dispute resolution process.

[41:06] Applicants may request reconsideration of a denied, reduced, suspended, or

[41:09] canceled application followed by a final administrative appeal to the chief to

[41:13] the CEO or designate. This provides procedural fairness while avoiding

[41:18] the need for the review of confidential personal information.

[41:22] As shown here in the document before you, there's four options. Council may

[41:26] adopt the leisure the LEAP program policy is presented. Council may adopt

[41:29] the LEAP program policy with amendments identified by council or council may

[41:33] refer the LEAP program policy back to administration for additional review or

[41:38] revision. And fourth, council may choose not to adopt the LEAP program policy at

[41:43] this time. Resource impacts. Uh the financial impact of the program will

[41:47] depend on the annual funding level approved by council, the number of

[41:50] eligible applicants, the type of value assistance provided, the participation

[41:54] levels in eligible programs and services. The policy confirms that LEAP

[41:58] assistance is subject to available municipal resources, annual budget

[42:02] approval, and program capacity. Administration may administer the

[42:05] program with existing departmental resources. However, there will be some

[42:09] staff time required to promote the program, receive and review

[42:12] applications, verify eligibility, communicate decisions, maintain records,

[42:16] and so on. In future, if the program de demand exceeds the approved budget or

[42:20] available administrative capacity, administration may be required to pause

[42:23] approvals, establish weight lists, reduce benefit levels, or return to

[42:27] council with further information or recommendations.

[42:30] uh in speaking to finance and to my managers, the expectation is that with

[42:34] clear, tighter application requirements to determine eligibility, it will likely

[42:38] decrease those who are applying who previously were approved uh under the

[42:42] project as our application procedures were um

[42:47] shall I say a little bit lacks. Um adaption of the proposed policy will

[42:52] establish LEAP as a formal council approved municipal program and provide

[42:55] clear direction for its administration. The policy will support consistent

[42:59] decision-making, transparent eligibility requirements, responsible use of

[43:03] municipal resources, and protection of applicants personal information.

[43:08] Uh, and again noted, the policy may require administration develop or update

[43:11] related administrative procedures, application forms, privacy notices, fee

[43:16] assistance tracking processes, and public communication materials.

[43:20] Administration will definitely be revising current program the current

[43:23] program application uh if this bylaw is approved. If approved, administration

[43:28] will communicate the availability of LEAP through the appropriate town

[43:31] communication channels including the town website, social media, the town of

[43:35] Slave Lake website, recreation facilities, program guides, front

[43:38] counter materials, and so on. Communications will clearly explain the

[43:43] purpose of the program, who may be eligible, how to apply, what

[43:46] documentation may be required, and how personal information will be uh

[43:50] protected. and then internal communication training would then be

[43:54] provided to recreation facility finance and front counter staff involved in

[43:58] taking these applications. The proposed policy supports the town of Slave

[44:02] Lakes's broader role in promoting a healthy, inclusive and connected

[44:05] community by reducing financial barriers to recreation and leisure participation.

[44:09] LEAP supports community well-being, social inclusion, affordability, and

[44:13] access to municipal services. policy aligns with strategic priorities related

[44:17] to quality of life, responsible service delivery, community wellness, and

[44:21] support for residents and families. It also reflects the town's commitment to

[44:24] delivering services in a fair, accountable, and transparent manner

[44:28] while making efficient use of approved municipal resources.

[44:32] The recommendation to council is that council adopt the leisure economic

[44:36] assistance program policy is presented and the motion that council approve the

[44:41] leap program policy is presented and direct administration to implement the

[44:45] program.

[44:49] » I have some questions unless anyone wants to pop in. Okay. Stop me if it's

[44:54] the same. Um a couple things. So to start, this one's going to have to come

[44:59] back. Um because the report is a bylaw, but the attached document is a bylaw,

[45:04] but everything for the motion is policy. So are we approving a policy or a bylaw?

[45:11] » My error. >> That's okay. So that's is that one's

[45:14] going to just as a heads up. So there's a couple administrative things in here

[45:17] and um so it's >> it's a bylaw.

[45:20] » It is a bylaw. >> Perfect. Um when the report comes back

[45:25] um generally we have changes between the old bylaw and the new bylaw highlighted

[45:31] uh or >> may I

[45:33] » yeah please go ahead >> the previous was a [snorts] policy and

[45:36] it was two and a half pages it was it was very minor in content

[45:42] » okay >> um so the reason why you don't have your

[45:45] traditional uh previous policy highlighted what all of the additions is

[45:50] because the initial leisure economic assistance policy from

[45:54] 2015 was in essence two pages and so we started from scratch and as usual uh

[46:00] policy was reviewed from similarsized communities throughout the province. Um

[46:05] and uh as noted in the appendix A and B the financial means level of

[46:10] establishing eligibility use uh LEO which is the

[46:18] the range the household income range from statistics Canada and that's used

[46:22] across the province at all our municipalities in establishing

[46:25] eligibility for acceptance into these types of financial assistance programs.

[46:30] What varies from communities is the levels. I think ours ours falls in line

[46:36] » the over 500,000 LIO level >> because there's so like schedule A hard

[46:42] codes the LICO thresholds for low income.

[46:44] » Yes. And we've chosen in this policy the one for urban centers over 500,000 the

[46:49] dollar values I believe >> and I'll explain why

[46:53] » that that's what my question is why >> that's that's generally

[46:57] of the different models that are there um we don't as centers in speaking to my

[47:04] peers and other communities about this policy we don't see a great deal of use

[47:07] for it but because it it often is a is a procedure and application that people

[47:13] are wary you're nervous to apply for. Traditionally, that's the column and

[47:18] level that's used across the board for most communities somewhat regardless of

[47:22] community size and to make it reasonable. And that's the one that's

[47:26] chosen. I decided to follow suit with our other municipalities across the

[47:30] province and use that column as our guide. But obviously with direction from

[47:33] council if you had a decision or a request to change it to a different

[47:38] column and a different part of uh the cutoff for the program. Obviously

[47:43] administration is welcome to uh any type of revision but for knowledge that's

[47:48] traditionally in in communities our size. That's the one they use to try and

[47:53] create an openness and and open availability

[47:55] » which is interesting because the one over 500,000 is higher. So if the

[47:59] low-inccome threshold for rural areas, if I'm reading this

[48:03] correctly, for one person in 2024 was 16,948. And if you go population under

[48:09] 30, in case we don't meet the rural 400 people per whatever is 19,396.

[48:15] So for the over 500,000 that's 25,9009. So we're saying that you have to meet a

[48:22] higher threshold to have access to the program.

[48:24] » We are we are. And I think in speaking to my peers, a lot of that was really

[48:27] over the last 24 months, you know, costs have risen constructively and incomes

[48:32] have stayed the same or in some cases been lower. You know, it it really

[48:36] speaks to in speaking to peers the discussion around what money is

[48:40] remaining at the end of the month to potentially take your family to a center

[48:44] like the MRC or to the pool. Um, and if you go to those lower levels,

[48:50] it constricts. And I think you know across the board and I'm talking

[48:54] communities like Drayton Valley and Edson and so not just within a 1-hour

[48:58] drive. What was found that u there was an increase in the people that used

[49:02] their assistance program and and encouraging to see that increase but not

[49:08] to the point that it created a burden on their budget or their community but yet

[49:11] encouraged people to that maybe if we had the lower threshold um our numbers

[49:16] are there and I I think it's healthy. We would be monitoring and tracking this

[49:19] for the first the remaining six months of 2026

[49:22] and then in speaking to finance we would take a look at the end of 2026 all the

[49:27] applications family sizes uh you know what we had issued to those families and

[49:33] individuals and then take a look at and having and seeing whether or not these

[49:37] rates are reasonable for usage. >> Okay, going to keep going. Um,

[49:46] where was I at that? That answered the LIO. Um, 5.1.6 talks about good standing

[49:53] with the town regarding eligibility for the program. So, you can allow denial

[49:58] based on unrelated debts or disputes unless administration applies an

[50:02] exception. U, it's a I >> Sorry, you're at 5.1.6.

[50:07] » Yes. Um, so I have a question regarding good standing. So, is that the

[50:13] recreation account only, facility conduct, unpaid utilities, taxes, fines,

[50:17] like what's good standing? >> Traditionally, in a parks and

[50:22] recreation, good standing is good standing with us in the recreation

[50:24] department. We don't have a current ban notice in place, uh, you know, fees for

[50:28] anything outstanding for program wise is paid, rentals in the facility, those

[50:32] types of pieces. That's a broad range section that can be narrowed down to be

[50:36] focused if it would like to be included whether or not taxes are current in

[50:39] those those those pieces. Absolutely. That's a great suggestion in tightening

[50:44] up. >> Yeah, I was actually looking at the

[50:46] language because good standing can meet a lot of things and if there's

[50:48] discretion there, I'd like to if we already have the income thresholds that

[50:52] have to be met that are very specific, then having the good standing

[50:55] thresholds, that would be a a thought of mine. Um,

[51:01] where am I at? Sorry. Can I just ask for clarification? You want it to be with

[51:06] all the aspects of town or just in recommen?

[51:08] » Well, that's I guess that's up for council discussion which we can uh I

[51:11] guess we'll pause and discuss that. So, right now one of the eligibility is your

[51:15] good standing with the town. Um, as Joe indicated that right now it normally

[51:19] would be just the recreation department, but I would open up the floor to council

[51:22] if you want it to be good standing across all town accounts. Um, and what

[51:26] that would look like.

[51:30] » Councelor Gallick. Well, it would make sense for every department to have a

[51:34] generic one that refers back to where you're in good standing with the town.

[51:38] We I probably don't have anything like that now, I'd assume, right?

[51:42] » So, there should be something in place, right? So, everyone could referred back

[51:45] to it for all the different >> good standing.

[51:47] » I think I think as a municipality, we'd be limited to not issue service if

[51:52] someone came to pay or pay a bill or pay taxes. Um, one doesn't defer the other.

[51:58] We don't currently if someone's outstanding on their taxes for the home

[52:01] disallow them from coming to the MRC or use the pool. So I think we've got to

[52:05] figure out uh you know how how we want to clarify that. I don't disagree.

[52:09] » Not that way, but if >> you're correct that way, but it might it

[52:13] might hinder stuff, but it uh I was thinking extreme cases. I know case by

[52:16] case you'd be okay, you're good standing, but something generic. But I I

[52:20] get your point on that. >> Councelor Hughes.

[52:23] » Yeah. I I don't think councelor Grammlick is meaning that they should be

[52:26] banned from facilities, but I guess for myself personally speaking, I do have a

[52:30] hard time feeling like we should be offering uh subsidy necessarily when

[52:36] they have a tax bill that they haven't paid for several years or something that

[52:40] is really outstanding with the town. I don't know that I feel that that is

[52:45] necessarily the route I would want to be taking here.

[52:49] It's been, if I may, it's been my experience in the past when I worked in

[52:53] the Okonogan and worked for the income assistance branch. Uh, as an example,

[52:57] um, and again, some of the mentions within the policy as well as my report,

[53:01] these are often people that have just moved to the community. Uh, they have

[53:04] potentially just not only moved to the community that, but they may be new,

[53:07] recent immigrants to uh, the country or they've fallen on financial hardship.

[53:11] And I think that may be the only time we have someone who may in that instance be

[53:14] a homeowner who maybe is having difficulties of meeting property tax

[53:18] requirements, right? At the same time, he's wanting to ensure their kids get a

[53:21] chance to use some of the facilities. Um I think it it can and deserves a review

[53:27] and some [snorts] fine-tuning. >> I think it depends where they fall on

[53:30] that spectrum, I guess, because to that point, if they are planning, you know,

[53:34] repayment with the town and they're in good standing with us in the sense that

[53:37] they have reached out and we are clearly communicating, then certainly. But on

[53:41] the other side of things, if there is no communication and you know a lot of

[53:44] outstanding balances, that's where I would struggle to just say yes, sure,

[53:48] like >> that's what I there's an exception

[53:50] wording in there and I would keep that. But in my opinion, I think it should say

[53:53] good standing across all town accounts, but you keep the exception ability so

[53:58] that the director can apply at their discretion if there is a unique scenario

[54:02] of hardship. Yeah. >> Um that way you're not inflexible, but

[54:05] that it does encourage like you said to be compliant across that. But again,

[54:09] newcomers >> as part of the application process, you

[54:12] can absolutely make that as one of the checks and balances that's done prior to

[54:16] approval. >> Yeah.

[54:17] » Within the program. >> And we for the majority of the of this,

[54:20] they're not homeowners as as a general rule. And we as the town, we do not have

[54:25] a lot of >> multi-year multi-year taxers. Um those

[54:30] ones that are potentially they do have come in and they've made a payment plan,

[54:33] per se. So, it's a very small number that I think you're looking at, but I do

[54:37] agree we could tweak it for the wording. >> But the target audience, I think, is is

[54:41] the ones that, you know, potential renters or or that type of audience that

[54:44] may not have that record. >> Okay.

[54:46] » Just as an as a side note. >> Um,

[54:48] » sorry, Mayor. Where were you still? >> Yep. Sorry, there's a list. Uh, 2026

[54:54] budget for this talked about the financial impacts. So, where's where

[54:58] where are we at? Well, the >> Sorry, counselor, you could

[55:04] » we issue mostly passes for this and so tracking of usage of those passes is

[55:09] somewhat challenging. Some communities uh pick a budget number and go against

[55:14] uh and try and set up jail codes and have a tracking system through active.

[55:19] In speaking with finance and what our usage review of our binder of past

[55:23] applicants, it was a suggestion from the CFO that we finish out the year 2026 and

[55:29] a month or two prior to the year review and take a look at what our numbers of

[55:32] applicants and our number in relation to usage was and then decide whether or not

[55:36] we need to allocate a budget or just operate out of our existing budget uh

[55:40] based on usage. >> This one's sitting in a back corner with

[55:44] a lot of dust on doesn't get a lot of usage, a lot of advertising in the

[55:49] So, >> do you have a councelor Hughes follow?

[55:51] » That was where I was going to go with that was sort of the Oh,

[55:55] » I Hold on. I have a moment. I'm having a moment. Go ahead. Now,

[55:58] » yeah, that's where I was going to go with that was more the annual dollar

[56:02] value that may be attached to this and how much it's currently being used

[56:06] because you're saying this is a current program

[56:07] » there. It's a current program, but it's currently not it has not in the past

[56:12] been that well promoted. We have the application at the center. Um, and that

[56:16] being said, That's the purpose of this policy is to

[56:19] one create create an acknowledgement and and a promotion within the community but

[56:24] also ensure that like our partner communities throughout the province

[56:27] there's a fairly realistic and straightforward eligibility uh

[56:31] guidelines number of them that are set out clearly and distinctly to ensure

[56:36] that it's being used by the portion of the community that the program was

[56:38] created to be used by certainly and not people coming in off the street filling

[56:42] an application to circumvent payment uh because it suits their budget or their

[56:47] frugal ity um in relation to paying to use our facilities. So u okay

[56:53] » though it is 12 pages I tried to be really clear on the responsibilities of

[56:56] staff the responsibilities of citizens and administration to make it clear fair

[57:01] uh and very processoriented that when we uh fine-tune 5.1.6 six and the other

[57:06] portions of the bylaw. >> Yeah.

[57:08] » That we can then make corresponding changes to the application itself and

[57:12] then we have a very clear document from the front desk and application forward

[57:17] on those people that are applying and how to streamline the process so that we

[57:22] can get approvals, you know, put out there for individuals and families that

[57:26] truly require it. As as I say, when I was in Pentictton many years ago working

[57:30] for the income assistance ministry, you know, people can come in. We don't want

[57:34] a a lot of document. We don't want to retain a lot. That's why we would be

[57:37] going to electronic retention, but just proof of current state and then we can

[57:42] move forward with the application. >> Okay. So to summarize your the budgetary

[57:47] question to Mayor Ward, then you would essentially want your hope is you would

[57:51] launch this program now and leave the budget as is out of the current

[57:55] operating budget, but next budget cycle you may come with a specific request for

[57:59] running this program as it grows. Is that

[58:02] » a fair assessment of what your proposal is?

[58:05] » Yeah. And currently we're talking less than $1,000.

[58:07] » So we will monitor it after we get it out there once it's approved and start

[58:10] advertising it and see if that number increases. It's it's similar to other

[58:15] resources in the community food bank where

[58:17] » you have to swallow a bit of pride to come and sign up for it. So we don't

[58:20] expect a big influx, but we want to have it available for those community members

[58:23] that do feel the need to have that >> wellness and health that's

[58:27] » So once this goes through, you'll be advertising this a little bit more

[58:30] because I personally I had no idea that this was even a program that we already

[58:34] had running. So that's why I'm >> that's the idea. Once it's approved, we

[58:36] want to get it out there. It's one of those ones we dusted off and said, "Hey,

[58:39] here's a program for our community. We know times are tough. We've seen it in

[58:42] out in in the real world. So here's something we could do to help our

[58:45] citizens." >> Okay. Yeah. No, I I love the idea. I

[58:48] just wanted I wasn't sure on the history of this program as well.

[58:52] » And every municipality across our province has some sort of assistance

[58:56] programming within recreation. Slightly different variation on the application

[59:00] and and what materials slight variation on what uh the assistance can be used

[59:05] for. Here at our center, it's usually for punch passes and coming in to use

[59:09] the facility rather than programs themselves. Um some communities it's

[59:13] different. It can be a percentage basis. >> Okay.

[59:16] the for communities our size in speaking to them uh often they would cap their

[59:22] programming at $5,000 but those are communities like Edson you know Drayton

[59:27] Valley slightly larger in population okay so that's what something we would

[59:31] look at going into 2027 take a look at usage and contrast that against what our

[59:37] expectations may be for 2027 so as as uh our CEO Mr. That said, you know, we

[59:44] don't expect a a mad rush to use these, but we also want to get some new people

[59:49] in the facility that >> potentially have not been able due to

[59:53] barriers. >> You bet.

[59:54] » Get into the building. >> No, I love that idea. And I just love a

[59:58] little bit of an estimation on cost around this program. That's just good to

[1:00:02] kind of just to see because it could be anything to me, right? This is could be

[1:00:06] a very broad range. So, I appreciate a bit of a a dollar value there. Um just

[1:00:11] last question for me. Obviously right now we have sort of minimal uh people

[1:00:16] participating. If you do see an influx, is this going to cause issues in terms

[1:00:20] of administering the program? Do you need see a need for more staff time or

[1:00:25] anything of that nature? >> No, we have developed an idea of what

[1:00:29] the framework of who will be involved in the process.

[1:00:31] » Okay. >> Um we'll monitor it accordingly as such.

[1:00:34] Um and again from a cost perspective again because we're not having the use

[1:00:40] of program this the LEAP program being used for programs we're not losing

[1:00:44] revenue per se in the fact that we may have someone through LEAP program take

[1:00:48] up spaces in summer splash currently. >> Yeah. No I know that

[1:00:51] » and and not have revenue from other camp users as as an example.

[1:00:55] » I hope that's a good one. Um it's more coming to use a walking track to come

[1:00:59] drop in and and go to pickle ball come be active. come shoot some hoops or drop

[1:01:04] in, you know, to kick the soccer ball versus an actual true cost for having

[1:01:09] them in the facility or part of our program participation.

[1:01:12] » Awesome. Okay. Thank you. Before I get to Councelor Williams, I'm just going to

[1:01:16] follow up on the uh budgetary question there. So, the policy intent has that

[1:01:20] eligible residents of the town, but the bylaw says town and MD. So, um

[1:01:26] clarifying, is it both the town of Slave Lake and MD residents that qualify for

[1:01:30] this program? In 56 I missed the mention of the MD of Lesser Slave Lake. It also

[1:01:35] is in other part of the bylaw. That's on me and that's so you're worshiping

[1:01:38] council. I apologize for that error. When the update to 5.56

[1:01:43] occurs, it's town of Slave Lake residents and residents of the MD of

[1:01:47] Lesser Slave Lake as a funding partner of the facility. It would be

[1:01:51] » so that would be just a friendly look at when we're looking at how much if there

[1:01:57] is a large uptake in that because there is intermunicipal cost sharing

[1:02:00] agreements um with regards to running the cost of the program. Now $1,000

[1:02:04] neither here nor there. Understand it hasn't been used but uh this would fall

[1:02:08] under the cost sharing >> and that's the type of data acquisition

[1:02:12] uh at the end of 2026 we'd be looking at over and above total numbers would be

[1:02:16] the division of residential. Sydney, did you or council Williams? Go

[1:02:21] ahead. >> Sure. Yeah. Um, I love this idea. I love

[1:02:25] the inclusivity of it for our community members, our seniors, everybody's

[1:02:30] involved. I love the idea of it. What worries me is just the talk of the

[1:02:35] wording of being in good standards. if we are trying to make this available for

[1:02:39] families, for example, if you have children maybe wanting to do it that

[1:02:46] their parents are not in good standing or something along that line. So, I'm

[1:02:49] just I'll be interested to see in and how the wording comes together.

[1:02:54] » It is interesting. >> I don't want to see children or or

[1:02:58] families discouraged from applying for this as well. And if the MD is involved

[1:03:03] in in in being this being available as well, how do we know if they're in good

[1:03:08] standings on their side as well? Right. >> I'd like to think that the percentage of

[1:03:14] our residents and both and I'll speak for those that are in the MD of Lesser

[1:03:17] Slave River as well as those that reside within our town boundaries are in good

[1:03:22] standing with the town and within the community. So, I think we will

[1:03:26] absolutely tighten this down to a sentence or two that covers uh this more

[1:03:30] clearly and more succinctly uh to shore this up as far as being one of the

[1:03:36] guidelines for approval in the program. Absolutely. And I'm happy to return back

[1:03:40] before mayor and council in the coming weeks with a uh completed and finally

[1:03:45] tuned hopefully final copy of bylaw number 10-2026.

[1:03:51] I'll uh pass it to councelor Bows and then I just I have a few we'll see

[1:03:55] there. Go ahead, counselor. >> Just being picky. Schedule A

[1:04:01] applicants must meet the annual threshold. You just might want to check

[1:04:06] the spell. [laughter] >> Thank you, council.

[1:04:09] » That Yep. Yep. No, it just kind of those that jumped out.

[1:04:14] » Nope. Uh since this is coming back um top of the report, we need well-being

[1:04:19] checked as it's part of strategic alignment.

[1:04:22] Um the residents eligibility we went over. I would consider schedule A and B

[1:04:29] are hard coding our LICO uh thresholds and our benefit codes. So if those ever

[1:04:34] change, then we have to do a bylaw amendment which is more complicated than

[1:04:38] administrative procedure. like we've been from my understanding we've been

[1:04:42] moving dollar values to administrative policy

[1:04:47] » when speaking to the other municipalities

[1:04:49] u when the passing of the bylaw happens and that's there there's usually a

[1:04:53] conversation between the CEO and council to see if they have any concerns about

[1:04:56] retaining the existing LICO if it goes down whether we keep it or if it goes up

[1:05:02] again part of this is I will be coming back

[1:05:06] before council to give you a report on the on the usage

[1:05:10] and the resident location numbers and all of those great details in the fall.

[1:05:14] And I think at that time we would also be looking whether or not there's an

[1:05:17] expectation that those LIO numbers may be going higher. I think they're a

[1:05:21] guideline. Please note that in the wording of the bylaw there is the

[1:05:25] ability for staff to uh you know have consideration and grant approval for

[1:05:31] this program. Yeah. >> So, if we had someone with with a very

[1:05:34] large family that was slightly over the household income but provided

[1:05:37] documentation or stated, you know, my my that's our that's our 2025 income

[1:05:43] statement from CRA, but you know, this is the recent occurrence within our

[1:05:47] family unit which is creating financial hardship. Have a conversation that's

[1:05:51] respectful and take any new information and potentially offer LEAP assistance

[1:05:56] for the the next 12 months. This is an annual piece. So again, up for review

[1:06:00] and again I don't think the numbers are going to warrant a like a mad rush of

[1:06:06] consideration, but I think it does fill a gap as council Williams and council

[1:06:10] Hughes mentioned. This is really I'm excited that we're now uh refining this

[1:06:15] this bylaw because it has been very broad and very open both on the policy

[1:06:20] side as well as the application. and I'm excited that we can hopefully encourage

[1:06:24] more people to consider filling out an application and getting actively

[1:06:28] involved and use this program. >> Okay, that's great answer. Just curious

[1:06:33] because sometimes we've been moving those schedules out because then bylaw

[1:06:37] changes require >> absolutely more work. Um just a couple

[1:06:40] little things to look at before this comes back. Inconsistent schedule naming

[1:06:44] policy refers to appendix A and B, but the attachments are schedule A and B.

[1:06:48] Yes. So, um, what else is there? There's a couple there's a runner

[1:06:55] through somewhere, but a lot of it says being a bylaw of town instead of town of

[1:06:59] Slave Lake, council of town instead of town of Slave Lake. Uh, there's

[1:07:03] participated in in um inconsistent use of low-inccome cutoff. So, there's a few

[1:07:08] different >> I was asked to present this this policy

[1:07:10] to >> I'm just saying so when it comes back,

[1:07:13] it's just a list. So, when it comes back, there's there's no judgment. It's

[1:07:16] just so that when it comes back, we have we can just handle this all at once. Um

[1:07:20] I didn't get to to take a a full look at it earlier. So again, as it comes up is

[1:07:26] just so that when it comes back, then we're only doing this once again.

[1:07:30] » Absolutely. >> Um let me take a look there.

[1:07:33] » Happy to do so. I'll do >> this just to to clarify that between the

[1:07:36] two. So it's coming back as a bylaw and um I think that that really is it for

[1:07:42] me. So, I'll uh I'll make a motion to have this uh bylaw come back to a future

[1:07:48] meeting of >> and we will schedule that the next SL

[1:07:50] senior leadership meeting for the next hopefully available

[1:07:54] » slot in the coming months of the council schedule.

[1:07:57] » Perfect. So, there's a motion to uh have this report come back. Any further

[1:08:02] discussion? >> Called a question of favor. And that one

[1:08:05] is carried. And thank you for that. Can we have a quick break before we

[1:08:09] continue, please? Thank you.

[1:08:19] No problem.

[1:18:49] Yep, we're good to go.

[1:18:55] » Okay, moving along into question period. Does council have any questions for

[1:19:00] administration? >> What did I miss? That's under I have

[1:19:04] that under correspondence

[1:19:09] » question period. >> Sorry.

[1:19:10] » Any questions from council? >> Councelor Hughes.

[1:19:14] » Sorry, I'm getting confused. Not you, Mayor Ward.

[1:19:17] » Um, I was just curious if you could provide an update on street sweeping at

[1:19:21] the current moment. I think the last that I had asked about it, they were

[1:19:24] finishing up the southeast. Are they in a different quadrant of town right now

[1:19:28] and what's happening with that? >> I will have to get back to council on

[1:19:31] that. I am not aware where they're at as of right now.

[1:19:34] » Okay. Yeah, I understand you're getting getting back in the swing of things. Um

[1:19:37] I'm just hoping I've noticed um along Main Street on the main boulevard, say

[1:19:41] by 7-Eleven and stuff, there's quite a buildup still there. So, I'd like to see

[1:19:46] those things moved along now that we're sort of almost to mid July. So, if you

[1:19:52] could uh relay the plan back to us at some point, that would be great. Yeah,

[1:19:55] I'll follow up. I know the south um main street south to uh highway 2 because of

[1:20:00] the overlay and program and patching that was going on there, they were going

[1:20:02] to try and wait a little bit closer to the overlay. Okay.

[1:20:05] » But if it's really bad, we could run it down there just to make sure we get some

[1:20:08] of it. >> They were going to do a good sweep

[1:20:09] before they did the overlay. I know that, but I will check on the rest of

[1:20:12] it. >> Okay. It just seems like there's still a

[1:20:14] buildup from all of the horrible winter weather and I'd like to see that really

[1:20:18] clean up. I'll follow up and get you the town looking its best. So,

[1:20:20] » yeah, I'll follow up. >> Okay. Thank you.

[1:20:23] Um, and then while you're contacting public works about followup, um,

[1:20:29] potholes, I know we're doing mill and fill and we got the contract award

[1:20:32] today, but the we have our own pothole program. Um, and now ashvault plants are

[1:20:38] open. So, it's July. Curious to see a bit of an update on if we can get how

[1:20:44] much we've done, what's scheduling for the rest. Would like to see as many as

[1:20:48] possible filled before before fall. Um, so I know we have a council meeting next

[1:20:53] week. Um, is it possible? >> We'll get we'll get info in

[1:20:56] » get some some type of info on where we're at on potholes and what that looks

[1:20:59] like aside from the mill and fill areas that we because there's still all the

[1:21:03] residential areas that uh we need to we'll be looking at.

[1:21:06] » Kush was going to stay. Kush was going to stay and told me he'd be okay. He

[1:21:09] should have stayed. >> That's okay. I can get public works to

[1:21:11] to weigh in a not too on what's been done because we said we've had, you

[1:21:14] know, 30 days of when it hasn't been pouring of of ability to to fill the

[1:21:19] potholes. So curious on what's been done and what's upcoming outside of those uh

[1:21:23] contract award areas. >> Okay. Anything any further questions

[1:21:27] from from council? As I see none, we can move into our

[1:21:33] correspondence. Thank you, mayor and council. Uh we

[1:21:37] received a letter from the community futures lesser slavery lesser slave lake

[1:21:41] region. My apologies regarding their lift program which is the learning

[1:21:44] indigenous financial teachings. They are applying for a grant to teach um some of

[1:21:50] their members to be instructors for the Lyft program facil facilitators, sorry.

[1:21:54] Um so they have provided us a sample letter and they are asking for council's

[1:21:58] support and with your approval we will write that letter and have it signed and

[1:22:02] sent off to them.

[1:22:06] » Oh, sorry. Uh my apologies. um the the partnership for the application their

[1:22:11] program. They're also asking for promote the program using marketing materials

[1:22:14] provided by the community futures lesser slave region and provide feedback

[1:22:18] throughout the de development and ongoing evolution of the program to help

[1:22:21] ensure it continues to meet the needs of our community citizens and the clients.

[1:22:27] » Okay.

[1:22:34] » We would need a motion. Councelor

[1:22:42] Hub. >> Um, yeah, I take no issue with this. So,

[1:22:47] if no one has any commentary, I will make a motion directing administration

[1:22:51] to please provide the requested letter um of support to community futures for

[1:22:58] this lift program >> and we will get it. It is they're asking

[1:23:02] for a short turnaround so we'll get it signed right away. Thank you.

[1:23:06] » Okay. Motion on the floor. Any further discussion? Call the question. Those in

[1:23:09] favor and that one is carried. Moving out of that into State of the

[1:23:16] Lake. Does council have anything for State of the Lake? Councelor Hughes. Um

[1:23:22] yeah, I know it was mentioned in Joe's presentation earlier, but I did just

[1:23:27] want to do a special shout out to Community Services for wonderful Canada

[1:23:31] Day events that they put on at the MRC. They did a fantastic job. There was lots

[1:23:35] of community members in and out of the building all day. It was a really nice

[1:23:40] community feel. Lots of businesses participating, lots of fun from uh the

[1:23:44] screams I could hear from watermelon eating and moose calling. And I found it

[1:23:49] to be very creative and innovative and it was a great time even though we had

[1:23:52] to be inside. Um so I just wanted to give a special shout out to Abby and her

[1:23:56] team and uh just community services in general for a job well done.

[1:24:02] » Thank you. Anybody else? Okay. Well, I'll just make a quick

[1:24:07] congratulations to uh Counselor Achoba and his lovely wife and their family for

[1:24:12] the addition of their beautiful daughter Abiella,

[1:24:16] » who was born on Saturday. So, congratulations and uh look forward to

[1:24:22] you reading council reports in the middle of the night when you're not

[1:24:25] sleeping uh thanks to having the new baby around. So just wanted to pass

[1:24:28] along a congratulations from council and administration and that is it for me

[1:24:34] from state of the lake >> councelor Aoba

[1:24:39] » motion to adjurnn. >> There's a motion to adjurnn. Any further

[1:24:42] discussion? Call to question. Those in favor and that one is carried.

Regular Meeting of Council July 7, 2026

Transcript