I know.
» You bet.
In the spirit of respect, authenticity, and reconciliation, the town of Slave
Lakeake honors and acknowledges that we are situated on the traditional lands of
sovereign First Nation within treaty territory. Home to indigenous, Matei and
Inuit peoples who have occupied these lands since time immemorial. Councelor
Gamick, >> make a motion to adopt the agenda as
presented. >> Motion on the floor. Any further
discussion? Call to question. Those in favor?
And that is carried. Councelor Achoba. I'd
» like to make a motion to adopt the minutes of previous meetings of council
May 19, 2026 as presented. >> Motion on the floor. Any further
discussion? Call to question those in favor? And that is carried. Councelor
Hughes. >> I would like to move to accept the
minutes from June 2nd, 2026 meeting as presented.
» Motion on the floor. Any further discussion? Call to question. Those in
favor and that is also carried. Perfect. We can move on to new business and
reports. Kush, you're up first with our mill and overlay program
contract order. Good evening, uh, mayor and council. The
purpose of this report is to provide award recommendation to council for mill
and overlay program approved for 2026. The 2026 uh winter season experienced
above average snow accumulation and repeated freeze thaw cycles which
accelerated deterioration of towns uh road network and resulted in significant
increase in payment failures. The extent of payment distress would make routine
patching in many location ineffective and uneconomical requiring more
permanent rehabilitation. As a result, the street order program has been
established to address some of the longer deteriorated road segments around
town. The program includes uh milling existing ashalt surface, placing new
ashalt overlays and undertaking localized base repairs uh where required
to restore roadway structure while extending the size uh service life of
the infrastructure and reducing long-term maintenance cost. The project
was approved by council for inclusion in 2026 capital projects list with budget
amount of $1 million. Request for proposal package was advertised on
Alberta purchasing connection starting 11th June uh this year and uh was closed
on June 26th this year at 2 2 p.m. Uh the request for proposal requested unit
rate proposal based on estimated quantities of proposed work. Quantities
were provided in the RFP document based on estimate for requesting cost
proposals. Actual quantity uh will be determined on field uh in collaboration
with the successful contractor. A site review with successful contractor
will be conducted prior to finalizing the work sites to assess the extent of
localized base repairs required at each location.
The amount of base rehabilitation will directly influence the overall project
cost and may affect the number of roadway segments that can be completed
within the approved budget. Repair priority will be given to high volume
sections of road with lower volume residential streets being considered as
budget permits. The potential roadway sections identified initially for
inclusion in the RFP are listed below. So southbound lane on main street
between second a northwest and third a northwest adjacent to Royal Bank. Uh
another section included was u caribou trail between main street and highway
88. Um one of the section on 6f southwest between caribou trail and
sunset plaza. Um uh on the west approach one sections on uh residential stretch
on 12th a and 9th street southeast. Um one of the residential section on sixth
street northwest between 2nd have north northwest and third northwest and then
residential section on 2nd street northeast between 4th northeast and
third northeast. Upon closing four proposals were
received uh with the following amount. Uh, Royal Concrete submitted a bid of
1,50,365. Pave Construction submitted a bid of u
$944,532.50.
E Construction submitted a proposal for $866,400
and Canelson sand and gravel submitted a proposal for $1,27,500.
All numbers are before GST. Evaluations of proposals were completed according
the criteria listed in RFP document. uh various mandatory documents were
requested. Uh price was weighted at 35%, past experience of similar project was
weighted at 30%, ashalt supplier plant location was weighted at 15% and then
schedule was weighted at 20%. All the submissions were found to be
compliant in with RFP requirements. Based on our evaluation, the highest
scoring proposal was submitted by e- construction limited and is recommended
for award. Evaluation summary is provided as attachment one for
reference. uh e- construction has completed several projects with similar
scope in town and within the last five years. They have done reputable work in
past and has the capacity to complete the proposed scope of work for the Olay
program. As per tentative project schedule, they plan to mobilize on
August 10th and demobilize on August 24th completing the project within
couple weeks. Additionally, administration has come across
microsurfacing process for extending the life of payment at a third of a cost of
million overlay. It is a surface treatment consisting of manufactured
aggregate, portlet cement and polymer modified ashfold emulsion. This
technique may be utilized for increasing skid resistant, color contrast, uh rut
filling, longitudinal and transfer character pairs, leveling of proper
surface drainage, filling small potholes etc. It can be applied on arterial
collector, residential or industrial road and it u said to have extend the
life of asphalt by 7 to 10 years. It greatly benefits the municipality as
they do not need to invest millions of dollars in full road rehabilitation
project. Uh and as such much uh multiple road sections can be completed in one
budget year instead of mill and overlay on one or two roadway sections.
Administration would like to propose doing pilot microsurfacing application
on main street between highway 2 and 6v south utilizing budget from the street
overlay project. uh that stretch of main street is undergoing fast deterioration
is and is currently not on 10-year capital plan for rehabilitation.
Completing microsurfacing will help extend the lifespan of payment for
fraction of cost while allowing capital investment to be diverted to other
failing sections in town. If approved, uh administration will evaluate the
performance of m uh pilot microsurfacing application on Main Street and based on
the results of that assessment, recommendation for future microurfacing
program will be brought forward to council. So council may choose uh either
of the following options. So the first option is proceed with Milan overlay
program by awarding the contract to recommended contractor and grant uh
pilot application of microsurfacing on main street between highway 2 and uh 6f
south. Um or the other option is proceed with mill and overlay program by
awarding the contract to the recommended contractor and defer the pilot
application of microsurfacing uh between highway 2 and 6f south to another year.
The project funding is supported by a combination of uh Canada community
building fund and road reserves uh combining total of $1 million. Project
will be carried out as per infrastructure standards. Uh
communication will be released to inform residents before commencement of any
work using town social media platforms and warrant alerts. So the internet
program would help improve road conditions within town limit uh for uh
allowing better rideability experience to the users and the work will also
extend useful lifespan of the road infrastructure
and our recommendation is to award the contract for 2026 million overlay
program to e- construction limited while also granting the pilot application of
microsurfacing on main street between highway 2 and 6f
south.
I have a couple questions. Let's cancel something there. Okay. Um,
so the pilot microservicing the cost for
that is that included in the project proposals?
» No, those were only like mill and overlay program only. So, the cost, the
budgetary number that we got for Main Street, um that's roughly 12,000 square
meters and they gave us a price of like roughly $16 a square meter. So, which is
close to $180,000ish. >> So, that's on top of that.
» Yes. >> And was it only the one uh like E
Construction was the only one that does the microsurfacing? No, e- construction
will do the mill and overlay >> but the microsurfacing can be done by um
western ashalt. >> Okay.
» Uh or west west can seal coating which is uh one of their u kind of like
installer >> and there is another company u fath
industries uh but I believe they are busy with their other projects. So we'll
try with west seal coating >> um and see how it goes. And then my
other question is more to do about the schedule section on the matrix.
» Yes. >> So we said it was August 10th 24th the
scheduling for e- construction. So uh one of the other contractors had the
next score of 3.5. So how much delayed what's an example of when that delay
would? >> So like roughly based on my estimate
something like this can be done in two weeks. So e- construction was bang on
that mark. Uh and hence they are getting four points and I think pave was just
between two and 3 weeks >> to to for completion.
» Yes. >> So that's that's not based on start
date. It's based on time to complete the project.
» Yes. Yes. >> Uh that's my questions for now.
Councelor Gramick. >> Uh is there something based on start
date >> ever? Out of curiosity. Everyone was I
mean like the only thing is maybe was suggesting to start earlier um but
schedule is more to look at if >> the length of once they start this one.
» Yes. >> Yeah. Okay.
» Thank you >> councelor Hughes. Um just with the uh
again the evaluation matrix here Kush I'm just curious when it says the
ashvault supplier plant location and that's weighted at 15%. I noticed e
construction as the lowest on that one. Does that mean that they're not using
like a local >> Yeah. So, so they are bringing in so
they have their own plant in Whitecourt. >> In White Court.
» Yes. Which they have utilized for other projects in the past. Um, so which is
what they have been proposing that to haul the ashall from WhiteCore plant
while the other uh proponents were proposing to use uh pave pave uh plant
in town. >> Okay.
» Uh and Royal Concrete has their own plant. So Royal would be using their own
plant. >> Their own. Okay. Okay. So that's how
that's being weighted. Yes. Okay. Um, and sorry, I just want to I know Mayor
Ward clarified this, but I just want to So, the million dollars here is for the
regular plan, but it's 180k for the microsurfacing pilot project from
Highway 2 to 6th Avenue. >> Yes.
» And that can only be done by a certain company?
» Yes. >> Okay. So, how come that's not a separate
motion, right? Because aren't we don't we want
to put a dollar value on that then? Because this is all kind of reading in
one motion here. So what we what we wanted to do is because council has
allotted $1 million to improve roads, right? So roads can be improved through
million overlay or they can be improved through microsurfacing. So what we are
doing because we came across microsurfacing in the like after we we
went through the budget conversation with council
» right >> so that is where we thought you know
both both products will be extending the life of the payment why don't we utilize
the same funds and just do uh mill and overlay on certain sections of the road
and then try this pilot pro application on main street
» okay but the budget item for this is only approved at $1 million right aren't
we going to be over 180k >> yes so
» we're $866,000
that's based on estimated quantities. >> Yeah.
» So we had that six sections of road. We will go around with e construction
following the contract award and we will take them around and they will say hey
this one you don't need base repairs because some of the base repairs dollars
have been built into this $866,000. >> Okay. So if some sections don't need
base repairs then there is some surplus that can go towards microsurfacing.
» Okay. You always plan a bit of contingency based on this as well though
right? >> Yes. Yes.
» So what percentage of contingency? >> So I I I didn't carry like 10 or 15% of
because it's a straight straight like you're just doing surface work right. So
okay >> it's more like contingency is more
» carried for for like deeper infrastructure like where you don't
know. for this level of work, it's not necessary as you do it in the past with
sewer lines or water mains, etc. Okay, thank you for clarifying, Kate.
» Alex, do you want to weigh in? >> Yeah. So, two things. If you look back,
[clears throat] um option five and six, the residential, if if we did get in
close to the budget. We want to with the 180,000 we're going to get to the
million, but if we did get close to the budget, those two could be subject to
deletion to make sure that overlay still gets done on Main Street. And there is
two motions. If you look under the motions, there is two motions. move to
accept deconstruction and move to do the overlay test project. So, there's two
motions in there. >> Yeah. No, I understand that, but it
doesn't say a dollar value. >> Oh, okay.
» So, I didn't want to just make a motion without dollar value.
» So, so it's it's going to with the two projects will not go over the $1
million. >> Yes.
» Okay. That's you guys have already. Thank you. I just want that to be very
clear. Thank you. >> Okay.
» Councelor Troba. I'd like to move that council awards the
contract for 2026 mill and overlay program to e- construction limited.
Okay.
There's a motion on the floor is the pilot surfacing one too.
» Oh, that's the next one. Okay. Sorry, I was I was above on option one. All
right. There's a motion on the floor. Do we have any further discussion on that?
Call to question those in favor? And that one is carried. Councelor
Williams. >> I'd like to move that council grants uh
admiss ad administration to proceed with the pilot application of microsurfacing
on main street between highway 2 and 6 a south south.
Okay, there's a motion on the floor. Any further discussion? Called question.
Those in favor and that one is also carried.
» Okay, excellent.
Moving to the next one. speed radar signs.
» So the purpose of this report is to seek council approval for the purchase and
installation of two speed radar signs at the start of shooter park playground
zone. So administration has recently received multiple complaints from
residents regarding motorists traveling at excessive speeds through the shooter
park playground zone and failing to reduce their speed upon entering the
reduced spa speed area. In addition to the public concerns, a recent rear-ended
collision incident occurred within the playground zone where a vehicle was
stopped to allow pedestrian to cross. Uh while there were no serious injuries, um
the incident highlights the importance of improving driver awareness and speed
compliance in an area with frequent pedestrian activity. Uh Shooter Park is
one of the popular park within the community and with schools out for
summer vacation um pedestrian volumes are expected to increase as more
families and children access the park and its amenities. The playground zone
also contains two pedestrian crosswalk further increasing the potential for
vehicle pedestrian conflicts if motorists motorists are not attentive to
or traveling at appropriate speeds. Historically, photo radar enforcement
deterred uh speeding within community. Uh with photo radar enforcement no
longer operating, compliance is now primarily dependent on RCMP and
community peace officer enforcement. Uh given the available resources,
enforcement personnel cannot be present at every location throughout the day,
making engineering measures an important uh component for improving traffic
safety. administration is proposing the installation of postmounted speed radar
sign at the beginning of shooter park playground zone on third a northeast and
sixth street northeast. Uh speeder signs actively displays drivers current speed
and provide immediate feedback as motorists enter the reduced speed zone.
Uh studies have shown that dynamic speed displays are effective at reducing at at
increasing driver awareness and encouraging voluntary speed reduction
particularly in school and uh playground zone where pedestrian activity is high.
uh technical data sheet of the proposed speed radar sign is attached to this
report for reference. Uh the proposed installation is intended um as an inim
traffic calming measure that that can be implemented quickly while administration
continue to monitor traffic operations and evaluate whether additional traffic
safety improvements may be warranted in the future. The installation will also
demonstrate the town's proactive response to public concerns and ident
and and identified safety risk through the implementation of practical
engineering measures. Uh the proposed signs are built with um built in with
other capabilities like capturing traffic volume data, speed statistics,
capturing 85th percentile speed uh which is industry standard used by traffic
consultants in evaluating the effectiveness of traffic calming uh
capturing percentage of vehicles u complying posted speed limit generating
speed trends throughout the day etc. uh such data will help administration to
monitor traffic patterns and identify if additional safety measures or targeted
enforcement is needed. If implemented measures are effective through this play
playground zone, then such measures may be considered for school zones and other
playground zones as required within the town. Uh council may proceed with
administration's proposal for installing the speed radar signs at the said
location or council may direct administration to conduct traffic
assessment at this location. administration requested quotation from
two separate vendors. Both vendors provided canoe pricing and upon
comparison um ATS traffic provided the best valued quotation. U based on the
quotation each sign will cost u $5,21.97 before GST. Uh sourcing of two signs
will cost altogether $10,43.94 before GST. Each sign come with 95 watt
solar panel with required mounting kits. The sign can be installed by our own
public works crew and as per our finance department the sign can be covered
either through the provided operating or capital funds for 2026 or they can be
also be funded through under unrestricted surplus.
Transportation association of Canada's guidelines will be followed when
installing the speed radar signs. uh communication will be released to the
residents notifying of the change in signage using town social media platform
and voant alerts. Uh this proposed initiative would enhance safety of
residents and visitors. Um as such our recommendation is uh for council to
approve the uh proposal of installing speeder signs at the start of shooter
park playground zone on third a northeast and 6th street northeast uh to
increase compliance with playground speed zone while enhancing overall
safety of residents and visitors. Okay,
» Council Granick. >> Yeah, if no one has anything, I'll make
a motion. Nobody. Nothing. Nobody. Oh, Cindy does.
Sorry. Go ahead, >> Councelor Williams.
» Hi. Thank you. I'm just wondering, so will these signs be mounted permanently
somewhere or are they able like someone can't just come and pick them up and
take them, right? be permanently mounted there.
» Yes, they were mounted on a sign >> on each corner.
» Yes. >> Okay.
» Okay. And then um what type of maintenance is associated with them? I
know you said they're running on solar panels.
» Yes. >> So all the data that you're collecting
will be accessed just >> through Bluetooth. So we just have to be
in vicinity of the sign and we can download the data on the app. Um and the
other maintenance required would be during snow season public works will
have to go and move the snow off the like solar panels. That's it.
» Okay. Okay. That was my only question then.
» Alex, do you want to add? >> Yeah, just um so we do have three other
signs in town. Um for clarification, the batteries are here. We found that
there's some computer issues which are also being ordered right now. All of
these are movable. So they are on a public
» that's those are the only ones I've ever seen which is why I was
» Yeah. So, they're out first, but they can be moved by our own public works
crew at no cost to us. Um, so after this one, we can move them to another
playground zone or any other area of town. The difference between the ones we
have and these ones, the ones we have now just kind of flash if you go fast.
These ones actually go red, they flash, they really bring So, you've probably
seen them in other communities. The reason we want to go with these ones as
a playground zone is they really bring to your attention when you're going
faster than supposed to speed limit. So, and and in six months, we can move them
to another school zone, another playground zone. So, they're permanent,
but we can move them at our at our need around town.
» Okay. >> And they're very basic maintenance. Um
the peace officer or IT crew can go download the information. Um they're
pretty standard. Yeah. Pretty low maintenance.
» Yeah. Um I was just wondering like the effectiveness of it just uh because I
know the ones on the highway, do they collect data as well?
» Yeah. >> And we do once they're functioning
again, we do have the ability, our IT department has spent a lot of time in
the last couple months um learning about them. Okay.
» You have to get pretty close to them with a laptop, but you can print all
that. Um, there another tool in the tool box.
» Yeah, I would be very interested to see. >> Yeah, another tool in the tool, but it's
not, you know, there's still there it's a sign that people have to pay attention
to versus, you know, actual foot feet on the ground enforcement, which we've
we've asked our local R&P peace officer to do as well.
» Okay. Awesome. Thank you. >> Thank you.
» Any further questions from council? Councelor
Grick. >> I'll make a motion that council approves
the leisure economic assistance program policy as presented. Oh, sorry. I'm on
the wrong page. >> My god.
Someone else jump in. I had it right in front of me.
» Councelor Chova's got it. I move that council approves
administration's proposal of installing speed radar signs at the start of
Shooter Park playground zone on Third Avenue Northeast and Six
Streets Northeast. >> Okay, we have a motion on the floor. Is
there any further discussion? Call the question. Those in favor and
that one is carried. Okay, thanks Kush. >> Thank you.
» Now, next report. Community services. >> Joe, the floor is yours. They cut me
off, Joel. I was trying to get ahead for you there.
» Good evening, Mayor and Council. I am presenting two reports tonight. The
first being an update with regards to the MRC recreation center. The purpose
of this report is to provide council with an update on the multi-rec center
operations, major events, recreation programming, facility utilization,
staffing developments, and upcoming priorities for the period of January
through August 2026. The MRC continues to serve as one of the
town's primary recreational community and event facilities throughout 2026.
The facility has supported diverse range of regional sporting events, educational
gatherings, community programs, and special events while maintaining high
service standards, and strong community participation. The continued demand for
both facility rentals and recreation programming highlights the MRC's role as
an important contributor to community wellness, social development, and local
economic activity. One of the most significant events hosted during the
reporting period was the Treaty8 First Nations Cup in March. The 4-day
tournament attracted approximately a thousand visitors per day and featured
38 teams competing across three divisions. The event generated
substantial facility utilization and contributed to local economic activity
through accommodations, food services, fuel purchases, and retail spending
within the community. Accommodation was less of an issue than previous years
with organizers happy to be able to book accommodations for their teams well in
advance of the tournament. Facility staff successfully supported tournament
operations and maintain service levels, high service levels uh throughout the
event, resulting in very positive feedback from organizers regarding the
quality of service and the facility management. The current two-year
agreement with Treaty 8 First Nations Cup concluded following this year's
event. administration is currently working with organizers to secure a new
multi-year agreement with further discussions expected following the
organization's board meeting in September of this year. In June, the MRC
hosted another successful Northern Lakes College convocation. The event
represented the institution's largest graduating class to date with
approximately 1,200 graduates recognized over two days. Daily attendance exceeded
a thousand visitors and generated sign significant activity within the
facility. Event organizers provided positive feedback regarding facility
cleanliness, operational support, and staff assistance throughout the planning
and execution process. Northern Lakes College has expressed interest in
returning to the MRC for its 2027 convocation ceremonies. The successful
hosting of large-scale regional events continues to demonstrate the value of
the MRC as a destination facility capable of supporting major gatherings.
These events not only enhance community profile and visibility, but also
contribute to local economic development by attracting visitors from throughout
the from throughout the region. [clears throat] Excuse me. The reopening
of the Racket Center within Arena 2 occurred in April, several days ahead of
the planned schedule. Utilization has remained consistent since the opening,
reflecting ongoing community demand for indoor recreational opportunities during
the spring months. To support continued growth in racket sports, MRC hosted
staff hosted a pickle ball tournament on April 25th. The event attracted 18 teams
competing across three divisions and was wellreceived by participants. The
increasing popularity of pickle ball presents opportunities for future
programming expansion and tournament hosting. Spring programming concluded in
May with the completion of several youth initiatives, including the GOG girls and
fundamental skills programs. Participation in the GoG Girls program
increased by 100% compared to previous sessions, growing from 6 to 12
participants. The program provides girls in grade 5 through eight with
opportunities to develop confidence, leadership skills, wellness practices,
healthy lifestyle habits through activities focused on self-care, mental
wellness, healthy eating, and body positivity. And this is a program we
hope to expand even further moving forward in the future. The increase in
registration demonstrates continued demand for youth focused programming and
highlights the importance of providing inclusive recreation opportunities that
support personal development and community engagement that are not
necessarily sportsbased. In May, staff also delivered the annual bike rodeo in
partnership with primary care Alberta, the RCMP, municipal enforcement and
emergency medical services. Despite the uncertainty weather that we had been
having and those conditions, the event attracted 15 participants and provided
valuable bicycle safety education for our local youth. During the spring, uh
on the staffing front and program development, the town successfully
recruited a new programming coordinator who has assumed the responsibility for
planning and coordinating our community programming initiatives. Early
priorities for the role have included the organization of the recent candidate
celebrations and preparation for upcoming fall and winter programming.
The town has also recruited a new camp coordinator to oversee the summer splash
program. Staff recruitment and retention remains ongoing operational priorities
throughout the recreation sector. Um, as we've discussed at past council
meetings, competition for qualified recreation professionals continues to
present challenges across across Alberta for its municipalities, making
successful recruitment efforts particularly important to maintaining
service delivery standards for residents and provide opportunities for local
summer staff to improve and increase skills. The department is excited to
provide opportunities for local summer staff to increase their leadership and
program skills. And in looking at our summer splash uh staff today and working
with them, we have a number of new staff, which is exciting to see that
turnover and new opportunities for our youth in the community uh for learning
and employment skills. Uh preparations for Canada Day started in May. This
year's theme was a blast from the past featuring a variety of family oriented
activities including community pancake breakfast which was cooked by the Lesser
Slave Lake Regional Fire Service. They served over,200 pancakes during the
breakfast. Uh the day included a costume contest, tug-of-war, egg relay, race
competitions, moose calling, and the watermelon eating contest which saw in
the in the children's division 38 participants, the youth division 28
participants, and our 14 plus division saw 18 participants. This was followed
by face painting and other interactive programming as well as some live
entertainment. Sponsorship support from local organizations and businesses
continues to enhance the event while reducing municipal cost. Uh Canada Day
celebrations took place at the MRC starting at 10 a.m. And personally, a
big shout out and thank you to the dozen or so sponsors from local community that
really made this event uh possible and so uh enjoyable this season.
Registration for the summer splash day camp program opened on May 25th and
generated strong committee interest with registrations reaching more than 50%
capacity for the program shortly after opening which was great to see. This
year's programming emphasizes local experiences and community connections
through planned visits to community facilities and attractions including the
fireh hall, Eastshore Athletics, Devonshshire Beach, Legacy Center, and
the Northern Lakes Aquatic Center as well as a trip to the airport to see the
wildfire planes. The continued popularity of summer splash de
demonstrates the importance of affordable and accessible summer
programming for local families while supporting youth engagement throughout
the summer months. And we were able to interviewing the budget with staff
continue the summer playground program at Hill to Even Park on Tuesdays and
Thursdays from 11 to 3. And this is led by our playground activity leaders and
allows children to drop in anytime during those hours and do crafts,
activities, and games with our leaders. Our first day of the program was on June
30th and we saw 20 children come out to participate.
So for upcoming events, the MRC continues to attract major community and
regional events throughout the summer. Roland Mitchner Secondary School
utilized the fieldhouse for its graduation banquet, while the Meti
Nation's 98th citizens gathering is scheduled for August. The citizens
gathering is expected to attract approximately 1,200 participants per day
over a three-day period and will utilize the entire facility over those three
days. The event will feature meetings, presentations, networking opportunities,
vendor displays, and banquet functions. Like other large-scale events hosted at
the MRC, the gathering is expected to generate positive economic impacts for
local businesses and accommodation providers. The return of summer hockey
camps to the MRC will provide additional recreational opportunities for local
youth while increasing facility utilization during the offseason. And
we've had a couple new camps join our previously scheduled uh camp providers
uh in Arena 1 this year as well. The camps have attracted participants from
both Slave Lake and surrounding communities, generating activity within
the facility and supporting local economic activity. Administration is
continuing to work with camp organizers to explore opportunities for future
programming and extended participation in the future. Looking ahead,
administration will begin planning for fall recreation programming and winter
facility operations. Staff have met with ice user groups, including the new Slave
Lake Jun Wolves organization to discuss facility allocations, scheduling
requirements, and operational needs for the upcoming ice season. And I'm happy
to share and add to this report that the agreement with the Slave Lake Wolves for
the ice usage and uh use of the facility was signed off this afternoon.
Now wrapping up some of our operational challenges uh and opportunities. The
continued success of major events and recreation programming de demonstrates
strong demand for MRC services. However, increased facility utilization also
creates some operational pressures related to staffing, scheduling,
facility maintenance, and event coordination. As the town continues to
attract larger regional events, opportunities exist to further position
the MRC as a destination venue capable of hosting tournaments, conferences,
cultural gatherings, and community celebrations. These opportunities have
the potential to generate additional economic benefits while increasing
facility revenues and community visibility. At the same time,
maintaining high levels of customer service and facility quality will
require ongoing attention to staffing scheduling capacity. administration will
continue to pursue strategic partnerships, event attraction
opportunities, and programming enhancements that support council's
goals of fostering a vibrant, healthy, and connected community. In conclusion,
the first eight months, the first eight months of 2026 have marked by strong
facility utilization, successful event hosting, increased program
participation, and positive community engagement.
administration remains committed to maintaining a high service standard
while identifying opportunities to enhance programming and strengthening
partnerships. And as the director of this department, I'm very proud of the
staff at the MRC at our pool, all of our facility staff, and my team of managers
here at the town. My recommendation to council is the council receives the
multi-rec center operational update report for information.
» [clears throat] >> Open the floor to questions from
council.
Councelor Ba, thanks so much for the report. Joe, just
a quick comment. So, it looks like we seem to be getting more non-sporting
events like these conferences. We've looks like we've had a few and word is
getting out that >> we are uh staff are actively promoting,
reaching out. We've got some concerts coming to town that are at the Legacy
Center that wasn't mentioned in this report. Uh that was done in part. One of
our staff members really took an active effort to see if we could be included in
that tour and to upsell the venue as as a as a really good venue for to be on
their tour for the community. So that's an example of the work they're putting
in and uh the goals for sponsorship and sales within the building are also on
the plan for the fall season to increase that revenue as well. So we have a
really strong team across uh the departments with that fall under the
umbrella of community services and again they've done some really terrific work
from uh January to date and I expect them to continue that moving forward.
» Excellent because yeah it just seems to you do one and it's rolling from there.
So >> that's nice to see.
» Councelor Hughes. >> Yeah, thank you. Yeah, I would agree
with councelor Bows. I'm really happy to hear that um we continue to be busy at
the MRC. Um and just a general comment of thank you and and gratitude from
myself uh to your whole team. Uh since I started on council, I really wanted to
see the MRC facility just fully utilized as it should be. And I really love your
comment about also non-sporting events taking place there as well. I'm really
feeling like our programming is very well-rounded and that there's something
for everyone in our community. uh and that's as it should be. Um so just well
done to you and your team. I think these improvements the last couple years are
great and that they're a reflection of uh good leadership and good staffing and
I'm very happy to uh to see the great things that have been going on. So thank
you. >> Thank you. The uh METI Nation's 98th uh
citizens gathering in August uh came about with a fair amount of hard work um
and site tours and really promoting the community and what the facility and the
staff have to offer and that really helped uh push that through to coming to
uh to Slave Lake.
Councelor Williams. >> All right. Well, I would like to move
that council accepts the multi-rec center operational update report for
information. Motion on the floor. Any further discussion? Call to question.
Those in favor and that is carried.
Okay. On to report
4.4. Right. Uh in the effort for the purposes
of the report is to present the proposed leisure economic assistance program
policy for council's consideration and adoption. Uh as council is aware uh many
of us as directors have been reviewing past policy within our departments and
this policy had not been updated since 2015. Uh so it was come to my attention
that it was time to update the policy and make it clear in relation to
eligibility and documentation and the application process. So that's why uh
this policy is being presented this evening. The policy establishes a formal
framework for the town of Slave Lake to provide recreation and leisure fee
assistance to eligible residents who experience financial barriers to
participation. The policy is intended to support fair, transparent, and
consistent administration of the program while improving access to town operated
recreation facilities. Access to recreational leisure opportunities
contributes to individual health, family well-being, and social inclusion, youth
development, and overall community quality of life. For some residents,
program fees, admissions, memberships, or related cost may create a barrier to
participation in town recreation and leisure services buildings. The proposed
leisure economic assistance plan, referred to as LEAP, is intended to
reduce these barriers by providing eligible low-income residents and
residents experiencing demonstrated financial hardship with approved fee
assistance. The policy provides council level direction for the program and
establishes the roles of council administration applicants and
participating departments. The policy was developed to reflect municipal best
practices for fee assistance programs, including clear eligibility
requirements, defined administrative responsibilities, privacy protection,
consistent application review, annual review, recordkeeping, and an appeal
process for applicants whose requests are denied, reduced, suspended, or
canceled. The proposed policy creates a structured and accountable approach for
administrating for administrating recreational leisure fee assistance
within the town. It confirms the council establishes the poly policy and
considers program funding through the annual budget process while
administration is responsible for implementation application review
eligibility verification recordkeeping reporting and day-to-day program
administration. Eligibility is based on residency with the town of Slave Lake
and the MD of Lesser Slave River, financial need and participation in
eligible town operated recreation facilities. The policy allows
administration to verify eligibility through standard documentation such as
proof of residency, income information, or proof of participation in an income
tested benefit program. It allows for alternate verification in exceptional
circumstances where residents may face barriers to providing standard
documentation such as homelessness, family violence, displacement, recent
arrival to Canada, sudden job loss, or other hardships. The policy also
provides flexibility for administration to establish benefit levels, maximum
annual assistance amounts, application forms, documentation requirements,
service standards, and related procedures. This approach allows the
town to adjust operational details as recreation fees, community needs, income
measures, and available budgets change in the future without requiring frequent
amendments to this council policy. Confidentiality and protection of
personal information are addressed through provisions requiring compliance
with the protection of privacy act and the town's record management
requirements. The policy limits access to applicant information to authorize
staff who require the information to administer the program. Uh in talking
with IT and administration, financial administration, we would be looking at
electronic retention of documents for this program moving forward for safety
and security reasons. The policy includes a dispute resolution process.
Applicants may request reconsideration of a denied, reduced, suspended, or
canceled application followed by a final administrative appeal to the chief to
the CEO or designate. This provides procedural fairness while avoiding
the need for the review of confidential personal information.
As shown here in the document before you, there's four options. Council may
adopt the leisure the LEAP program policy is presented. Council may adopt
the LEAP program policy with amendments identified by council or council may
refer the LEAP program policy back to administration for additional review or
revision. And fourth, council may choose not to adopt the LEAP program policy at
this time. Resource impacts. Uh the financial impact of the program will
depend on the annual funding level approved by council, the number of
eligible applicants, the type of value assistance provided, the participation
levels in eligible programs and services. The policy confirms that LEAP
assistance is subject to available municipal resources, annual budget
approval, and program capacity. Administration may administer the
program with existing departmental resources. However, there will be some
staff time required to promote the program, receive and review
applications, verify eligibility, communicate decisions, maintain records,
and so on. In future, if the program de demand exceeds the approved budget or
available administrative capacity, administration may be required to pause
approvals, establish weight lists, reduce benefit levels, or return to
council with further information or recommendations.
uh in speaking to finance and to my managers, the expectation is that with
clear, tighter application requirements to determine eligibility, it will likely
decrease those who are applying who previously were approved uh under the
project as our application procedures were um
shall I say a little bit lacks. Um adaption of the proposed policy will
establish LEAP as a formal council approved municipal program and provide
clear direction for its administration. The policy will support consistent
decision-making, transparent eligibility requirements, responsible use of
municipal resources, and protection of applicants personal information.
Uh, and again noted, the policy may require administration develop or update
related administrative procedures, application forms, privacy notices, fee
assistance tracking processes, and public communication materials.
Administration will definitely be revising current program the current
program application uh if this bylaw is approved. If approved, administration
will communicate the availability of LEAP through the appropriate town
communication channels including the town website, social media, the town of
Slave Lake website, recreation facilities, program guides, front
counter materials, and so on. Communications will clearly explain the
purpose of the program, who may be eligible, how to apply, what
documentation may be required, and how personal information will be uh
protected. and then internal communication training would then be
provided to recreation facility finance and front counter staff involved in
taking these applications. The proposed policy supports the town of Slave
Lakes's broader role in promoting a healthy, inclusive and connected
community by reducing financial barriers to recreation and leisure participation.
LEAP supports community well-being, social inclusion, affordability, and
access to municipal services. policy aligns with strategic priorities related
to quality of life, responsible service delivery, community wellness, and
support for residents and families. It also reflects the town's commitment to
delivering services in a fair, accountable, and transparent manner
while making efficient use of approved municipal resources.
The recommendation to council is that council adopt the leisure economic
assistance program policy is presented and the motion that council approve the
leap program policy is presented and direct administration to implement the
program.
» I have some questions unless anyone wants to pop in. Okay. Stop me if it's
the same. Um a couple things. So to start, this one's going to have to come
back. Um because the report is a bylaw, but the attached document is a bylaw,
but everything for the motion is policy. So are we approving a policy or a bylaw?
» My error. >> That's okay. So that's is that one's
going to just as a heads up. So there's a couple administrative things in here
and um so it's >> it's a bylaw.
» It is a bylaw. >> Perfect. Um when the report comes back
um generally we have changes between the old bylaw and the new bylaw highlighted
uh or >> may I
» yeah please go ahead >> the previous was a [snorts] policy and
it was two and a half pages it was it was very minor in content
» okay >> um so the reason why you don't have your
traditional uh previous policy highlighted what all of the additions is
because the initial leisure economic assistance policy from
2015 was in essence two pages and so we started from scratch and as usual uh
policy was reviewed from similarsized communities throughout the province. Um
and uh as noted in the appendix A and B the financial means level of
establishing eligibility use uh LEO which is the
the range the household income range from statistics Canada and that's used
across the province at all our municipalities in establishing
eligibility for acceptance into these types of financial assistance programs.
What varies from communities is the levels. I think ours ours falls in line
» the over 500,000 LIO level >> because there's so like schedule A hard
codes the LICO thresholds for low income.
» Yes. And we've chosen in this policy the one for urban centers over 500,000 the
dollar values I believe >> and I'll explain why
» that that's what my question is why >> that's that's generally
of the different models that are there um we don't as centers in speaking to my
peers and other communities about this policy we don't see a great deal of use
for it but because it it often is a is a procedure and application that people
are wary you're nervous to apply for. Traditionally, that's the column and
level that's used across the board for most communities somewhat regardless of
community size and to make it reasonable. And that's the one that's
chosen. I decided to follow suit with our other municipalities across the
province and use that column as our guide. But obviously with direction from
council if you had a decision or a request to change it to a different
column and a different part of uh the cutoff for the program. Obviously
administration is welcome to uh any type of revision but for knowledge that's
traditionally in in communities our size. That's the one they use to try and
create an openness and and open availability
» which is interesting because the one over 500,000 is higher. So if the
low-inccome threshold for rural areas, if I'm reading this
correctly, for one person in 2024 was 16,948. And if you go population under
30, in case we don't meet the rural 400 people per whatever is 19,396.
So for the over 500,000 that's 25,9009. So we're saying that you have to meet a
higher threshold to have access to the program.
» We are we are. And I think in speaking to my peers, a lot of that was really
over the last 24 months, you know, costs have risen constructively and incomes
have stayed the same or in some cases been lower. You know, it it really
speaks to in speaking to peers the discussion around what money is
remaining at the end of the month to potentially take your family to a center
like the MRC or to the pool. Um, and if you go to those lower levels,
it constricts. And I think you know across the board and I'm talking
communities like Drayton Valley and Edson and so not just within a 1-hour
drive. What was found that u there was an increase in the people that used
their assistance program and and encouraging to see that increase but not
to the point that it created a burden on their budget or their community but yet
encouraged people to that maybe if we had the lower threshold um our numbers
are there and I I think it's healthy. We would be monitoring and tracking this
for the first the remaining six months of 2026
and then in speaking to finance we would take a look at the end of 2026 all the
applications family sizes uh you know what we had issued to those families and
individuals and then take a look at and having and seeing whether or not these
rates are reasonable for usage. >> Okay, going to keep going. Um,
where was I at that? That answered the LIO. Um, 5.1.6 talks about good standing
with the town regarding eligibility for the program. So, you can allow denial
based on unrelated debts or disputes unless administration applies an
exception. U, it's a I >> Sorry, you're at 5.1.6.
» Yes. Um, so I have a question regarding good standing. So, is that the
recreation account only, facility conduct, unpaid utilities, taxes, fines,
like what's good standing? >> Traditionally, in a parks and
recreation, good standing is good standing with us in the recreation
department. We don't have a current ban notice in place, uh, you know, fees for
anything outstanding for program wise is paid, rentals in the facility, those
types of pieces. That's a broad range section that can be narrowed down to be
focused if it would like to be included whether or not taxes are current in
those those those pieces. Absolutely. That's a great suggestion in tightening
up. >> Yeah, I was actually looking at the
language because good standing can meet a lot of things and if there's
discretion there, I'd like to if we already have the income thresholds that
have to be met that are very specific, then having the good standing
thresholds, that would be a a thought of mine. Um,
where am I at? Sorry. Can I just ask for clarification? You want it to be with
all the aspects of town or just in recommen?
» Well, that's I guess that's up for council discussion which we can uh I
guess we'll pause and discuss that. So, right now one of the eligibility is your
good standing with the town. Um, as Joe indicated that right now it normally
would be just the recreation department, but I would open up the floor to council
if you want it to be good standing across all town accounts. Um, and what
that would look like.
» Councelor Gallick. Well, it would make sense for every department to have a
generic one that refers back to where you're in good standing with the town.
We I probably don't have anything like that now, I'd assume, right?
» So, there should be something in place, right? So, everyone could referred back
to it for all the different >> good standing.
» I think I think as a municipality, we'd be limited to not issue service if
someone came to pay or pay a bill or pay taxes. Um, one doesn't defer the other.
We don't currently if someone's outstanding on their taxes for the home
disallow them from coming to the MRC or use the pool. So I think we've got to
figure out uh you know how how we want to clarify that. I don't disagree.
» Not that way, but if >> you're correct that way, but it might it
might hinder stuff, but it uh I was thinking extreme cases. I know case by
case you'd be okay, you're good standing, but something generic. But I I
get your point on that. >> Councelor Hughes.
» Yeah. I I don't think councelor Grammlick is meaning that they should be
banned from facilities, but I guess for myself personally speaking, I do have a
hard time feeling like we should be offering uh subsidy necessarily when
they have a tax bill that they haven't paid for several years or something that
is really outstanding with the town. I don't know that I feel that that is
necessarily the route I would want to be taking here.
It's been, if I may, it's been my experience in the past when I worked in
the Okonogan and worked for the income assistance branch. Uh, as an example,
um, and again, some of the mentions within the policy as well as my report,
these are often people that have just moved to the community. Uh, they have
potentially just not only moved to the community that, but they may be new,
recent immigrants to uh, the country or they've fallen on financial hardship.
And I think that may be the only time we have someone who may in that instance be
a homeowner who maybe is having difficulties of meeting property tax
requirements, right? At the same time, he's wanting to ensure their kids get a
chance to use some of the facilities. Um I think it it can and deserves a review
and some [snorts] fine-tuning. >> I think it depends where they fall on
that spectrum, I guess, because to that point, if they are planning, you know,
repayment with the town and they're in good standing with us in the sense that
they have reached out and we are clearly communicating, then certainly. But on
the other side of things, if there is no communication and you know a lot of
outstanding balances, that's where I would struggle to just say yes, sure,
like >> that's what I there's an exception
wording in there and I would keep that. But in my opinion, I think it should say
good standing across all town accounts, but you keep the exception ability so
that the director can apply at their discretion if there is a unique scenario
of hardship. Yeah. >> Um that way you're not inflexible, but
that it does encourage like you said to be compliant across that. But again,
newcomers >> as part of the application process, you
can absolutely make that as one of the checks and balances that's done prior to
approval. >> Yeah.
» Within the program. >> And we for the majority of the of this,
they're not homeowners as as a general rule. And we as the town, we do not have
a lot of >> multi-year multi-year taxers. Um those
ones that are potentially they do have come in and they've made a payment plan,
per se. So, it's a very small number that I think you're looking at, but I do
agree we could tweak it for the wording. >> But the target audience, I think, is is
the ones that, you know, potential renters or or that type of audience that
may not have that record. >> Okay.
» Just as an as a side note. >> Um,
» sorry, Mayor. Where were you still? >> Yep. Sorry, there's a list. Uh, 2026
budget for this talked about the financial impacts. So, where's where
where are we at? Well, the >> Sorry, counselor, you could
» we issue mostly passes for this and so tracking of usage of those passes is
somewhat challenging. Some communities uh pick a budget number and go against
uh and try and set up jail codes and have a tracking system through active.
In speaking with finance and what our usage review of our binder of past
applicants, it was a suggestion from the CFO that we finish out the year 2026 and
a month or two prior to the year review and take a look at what our numbers of
applicants and our number in relation to usage was and then decide whether or not
we need to allocate a budget or just operate out of our existing budget uh
based on usage. >> This one's sitting in a back corner with
a lot of dust on doesn't get a lot of usage, a lot of advertising in the
So, >> do you have a councelor Hughes follow?
» That was where I was going to go with that was sort of the Oh,
» I Hold on. I have a moment. I'm having a moment. Go ahead. Now,
» yeah, that's where I was going to go with that was more the annual dollar
value that may be attached to this and how much it's currently being used
because you're saying this is a current program
» there. It's a current program, but it's currently not it has not in the past
been that well promoted. We have the application at the center. Um, and that
being said, That's the purpose of this policy is to
one create create an acknowledgement and and a promotion within the community but
also ensure that like our partner communities throughout the province
there's a fairly realistic and straightforward eligibility uh
guidelines number of them that are set out clearly and distinctly to ensure
that it's being used by the portion of the community that the program was
created to be used by certainly and not people coming in off the street filling
an application to circumvent payment uh because it suits their budget or their
frugal ity um in relation to paying to use our facilities. So u okay
» though it is 12 pages I tried to be really clear on the responsibilities of
staff the responsibilities of citizens and administration to make it clear fair
uh and very processoriented that when we uh fine-tune 5.1.6 six and the other
portions of the bylaw. >> Yeah.
» That we can then make corresponding changes to the application itself and
then we have a very clear document from the front desk and application forward
on those people that are applying and how to streamline the process so that we
can get approvals, you know, put out there for individuals and families that
truly require it. As as I say, when I was in Pentictton many years ago working
for the income assistance ministry, you know, people can come in. We don't want
a a lot of document. We don't want to retain a lot. That's why we would be
going to electronic retention, but just proof of current state and then we can
move forward with the application. >> Okay. So to summarize your the budgetary
question to Mayor Ward, then you would essentially want your hope is you would
launch this program now and leave the budget as is out of the current
operating budget, but next budget cycle you may come with a specific request for
running this program as it grows. Is that
» a fair assessment of what your proposal is?
» Yeah. And currently we're talking less than $1,000.
» So we will monitor it after we get it out there once it's approved and start
advertising it and see if that number increases. It's it's similar to other
resources in the community food bank where
» you have to swallow a bit of pride to come and sign up for it. So we don't
expect a big influx, but we want to have it available for those community members
that do feel the need to have that >> wellness and health that's
» So once this goes through, you'll be advertising this a little bit more
because I personally I had no idea that this was even a program that we already
had running. So that's why I'm >> that's the idea. Once it's approved, we
want to get it out there. It's one of those ones we dusted off and said, "Hey,
here's a program for our community. We know times are tough. We've seen it in
out in in the real world. So here's something we could do to help our
citizens." >> Okay. Yeah. No, I I love the idea. I
just wanted I wasn't sure on the history of this program as well.
» And every municipality across our province has some sort of assistance
programming within recreation. Slightly different variation on the application
and and what materials slight variation on what uh the assistance can be used
for. Here at our center, it's usually for punch passes and coming in to use
the facility rather than programs themselves. Um some communities it's
different. It can be a percentage basis. >> Okay.
the for communities our size in speaking to them uh often they would cap their
programming at $5,000 but those are communities like Edson you know Drayton
Valley slightly larger in population okay so that's what something we would
look at going into 2027 take a look at usage and contrast that against what our
expectations may be for 2027 so as as uh our CEO Mr. That said, you know, we
don't expect a a mad rush to use these, but we also want to get some new people
in the facility that >> potentially have not been able due to
barriers. >> You bet.
» Get into the building. >> No, I love that idea. And I just love a
little bit of an estimation on cost around this program. That's just good to
kind of just to see because it could be anything to me, right? This is could be
a very broad range. So, I appreciate a bit of a a dollar value there. Um just
last question for me. Obviously right now we have sort of minimal uh people
participating. If you do see an influx, is this going to cause issues in terms
of administering the program? Do you need see a need for more staff time or
anything of that nature? >> No, we have developed an idea of what
the framework of who will be involved in the process.
» Okay. >> Um we'll monitor it accordingly as such.
Um and again from a cost perspective again because we're not having the use
of program this the LEAP program being used for programs we're not losing
revenue per se in the fact that we may have someone through LEAP program take
up spaces in summer splash currently. >> Yeah. No I know that
» and and not have revenue from other camp users as as an example.
» I hope that's a good one. Um it's more coming to use a walking track to come
drop in and and go to pickle ball come be active. come shoot some hoops or drop
in, you know, to kick the soccer ball versus an actual true cost for having
them in the facility or part of our program participation.
» Awesome. Okay. Thank you. Before I get to Councelor Williams, I'm just going to
follow up on the uh budgetary question there. So, the policy intent has that
eligible residents of the town, but the bylaw says town and MD. So, um
clarifying, is it both the town of Slave Lake and MD residents that qualify for
this program? In 56 I missed the mention of the MD of Lesser Slave Lake. It also
is in other part of the bylaw. That's on me and that's so you're worshiping
council. I apologize for that error. When the update to 5.56
occurs, it's town of Slave Lake residents and residents of the MD of
Lesser Slave Lake as a funding partner of the facility. It would be
» so that would be just a friendly look at when we're looking at how much if there
is a large uptake in that because there is intermunicipal cost sharing
agreements um with regards to running the cost of the program. Now $1,000
neither here nor there. Understand it hasn't been used but uh this would fall
under the cost sharing >> and that's the type of data acquisition
uh at the end of 2026 we'd be looking at over and above total numbers would be
the division of residential. Sydney, did you or council Williams? Go
ahead. >> Sure. Yeah. Um, I love this idea. I love
the inclusivity of it for our community members, our seniors, everybody's
involved. I love the idea of it. What worries me is just the talk of the
wording of being in good standards. if we are trying to make this available for
families, for example, if you have children maybe wanting to do it that
their parents are not in good standing or something along that line. So, I'm
just I'll be interested to see in and how the wording comes together.
» It is interesting. >> I don't want to see children or or
families discouraged from applying for this as well. And if the MD is involved
in in in being this being available as well, how do we know if they're in good
standings on their side as well? Right. >> I'd like to think that the percentage of
our residents and both and I'll speak for those that are in the MD of Lesser
Slave River as well as those that reside within our town boundaries are in good
standing with the town and within the community. So, I think we will
absolutely tighten this down to a sentence or two that covers uh this more
clearly and more succinctly uh to shore this up as far as being one of the
guidelines for approval in the program. Absolutely. And I'm happy to return back
before mayor and council in the coming weeks with a uh completed and finally
tuned hopefully final copy of bylaw number 10-2026.
I'll uh pass it to councelor Bows and then I just I have a few we'll see
there. Go ahead, counselor. >> Just being picky. Schedule A
applicants must meet the annual threshold. You just might want to check
the spell. [laughter] >> Thank you, council.
» That Yep. Yep. No, it just kind of those that jumped out.
» Nope. Uh since this is coming back um top of the report, we need well-being
checked as it's part of strategic alignment.
Um the residents eligibility we went over. I would consider schedule A and B
are hard coding our LICO uh thresholds and our benefit codes. So if those ever
change, then we have to do a bylaw amendment which is more complicated than
administrative procedure. like we've been from my understanding we've been
moving dollar values to administrative policy
» when speaking to the other municipalities
u when the passing of the bylaw happens and that's there there's usually a
conversation between the CEO and council to see if they have any concerns about
retaining the existing LICO if it goes down whether we keep it or if it goes up
again part of this is I will be coming back
before council to give you a report on the on the usage
and the resident location numbers and all of those great details in the fall.
And I think at that time we would also be looking whether or not there's an
expectation that those LIO numbers may be going higher. I think they're a
guideline. Please note that in the wording of the bylaw there is the
ability for staff to uh you know have consideration and grant approval for
this program. Yeah. >> So, if we had someone with with a very
large family that was slightly over the household income but provided
documentation or stated, you know, my my that's our that's our 2025 income
statement from CRA, but you know, this is the recent occurrence within our
family unit which is creating financial hardship. Have a conversation that's
respectful and take any new information and potentially offer LEAP assistance
for the the next 12 months. This is an annual piece. So again, up for review
and again I don't think the numbers are going to warrant a like a mad rush of
consideration, but I think it does fill a gap as council Williams and council
Hughes mentioned. This is really I'm excited that we're now uh refining this
this bylaw because it has been very broad and very open both on the policy
side as well as the application. and I'm excited that we can hopefully encourage
more people to consider filling out an application and getting actively
involved and use this program. >> Okay, that's great answer. Just curious
because sometimes we've been moving those schedules out because then bylaw
changes require >> absolutely more work. Um just a couple
little things to look at before this comes back. Inconsistent schedule naming
policy refers to appendix A and B, but the attachments are schedule A and B.
Yes. So, um, what else is there? There's a couple there's a runner
through somewhere, but a lot of it says being a bylaw of town instead of town of
Slave Lake, council of town instead of town of Slave Lake. Uh, there's
participated in in um inconsistent use of low-inccome cutoff. So, there's a few
different >> I was asked to present this this policy
to >> I'm just saying so when it comes back,
it's just a list. So, when it comes back, there's there's no judgment. It's
just so that when it comes back, we have we can just handle this all at once. Um
I didn't get to to take a a full look at it earlier. So again, as it comes up is
just so that when it comes back, then we're only doing this once again.
» Absolutely. >> Um let me take a look there.
» Happy to do so. I'll do >> this just to to clarify that between the
two. So it's coming back as a bylaw and um I think that that really is it for
me. So, I'll uh I'll make a motion to have this uh bylaw come back to a future
meeting of >> and we will schedule that the next SL
senior leadership meeting for the next hopefully available
» slot in the coming months of the council schedule.
» Perfect. So, there's a motion to uh have this report come back. Any further
discussion? >> Called a question of favor. And that one
is carried. And thank you for that. Can we have a quick break before we
continue, please? Thank you.
No problem.
Yep, we're good to go.
» Okay, moving along into question period. Does council have any questions for
administration? >> What did I miss? That's under I have
that under correspondence
» question period. >> Sorry.
» Any questions from council? >> Councelor Hughes.
» Sorry, I'm getting confused. Not you, Mayor Ward.
» Um, I was just curious if you could provide an update on street sweeping at
the current moment. I think the last that I had asked about it, they were
finishing up the southeast. Are they in a different quadrant of town right now
and what's happening with that? >> I will have to get back to council on
that. I am not aware where they're at as of right now.
» Okay. Yeah, I understand you're getting getting back in the swing of things. Um
I'm just hoping I've noticed um along Main Street on the main boulevard, say
by 7-Eleven and stuff, there's quite a buildup still there. So, I'd like to see
those things moved along now that we're sort of almost to mid July. So, if you
could uh relay the plan back to us at some point, that would be great. Yeah,
I'll follow up. I know the south um main street south to uh highway 2 because of
the overlay and program and patching that was going on there, they were going
to try and wait a little bit closer to the overlay. Okay.
» But if it's really bad, we could run it down there just to make sure we get some
of it. >> They were going to do a good sweep
before they did the overlay. I know that, but I will check on the rest of
it. >> Okay. It just seems like there's still a
buildup from all of the horrible winter weather and I'd like to see that really
clean up. I'll follow up and get you the town looking its best. So,
» yeah, I'll follow up. >> Okay. Thank you.
Um, and then while you're contacting public works about followup, um,
potholes, I know we're doing mill and fill and we got the contract award
today, but the we have our own pothole program. Um, and now ashvault plants are
open. So, it's July. Curious to see a bit of an update on if we can get how
much we've done, what's scheduling for the rest. Would like to see as many as
possible filled before before fall. Um, so I know we have a council meeting next
week. Um, is it possible? >> We'll get we'll get info in
» get some some type of info on where we're at on potholes and what that looks
like aside from the mill and fill areas that we because there's still all the
residential areas that uh we need to we'll be looking at.
» Kush was going to stay. Kush was going to stay and told me he'd be okay. He
should have stayed. >> That's okay. I can get public works to
to weigh in a not too on what's been done because we said we've had, you
know, 30 days of when it hasn't been pouring of of ability to to fill the
potholes. So curious on what's been done and what's upcoming outside of those uh
contract award areas. >> Okay. Anything any further questions
from from council? As I see none, we can move into our
correspondence. Thank you, mayor and council. Uh we
received a letter from the community futures lesser slavery lesser slave lake
region. My apologies regarding their lift program which is the learning
indigenous financial teachings. They are applying for a grant to teach um some of
their members to be instructors for the Lyft program facil facilitators, sorry.
Um so they have provided us a sample letter and they are asking for council's
support and with your approval we will write that letter and have it signed and
sent off to them.
» Oh, sorry. Uh my apologies. um the the partnership for the application their
program. They're also asking for promote the program using marketing materials
provided by the community futures lesser slave region and provide feedback
throughout the de development and ongoing evolution of the program to help
ensure it continues to meet the needs of our community citizens and the clients.
» Okay.
» We would need a motion. Councelor
Hub. >> Um, yeah, I take no issue with this. So,
if no one has any commentary, I will make a motion directing administration
to please provide the requested letter um of support to community futures for
this lift program >> and we will get it. It is they're asking
for a short turnaround so we'll get it signed right away. Thank you.
» Okay. Motion on the floor. Any further discussion? Call the question. Those in
favor and that one is carried. Moving out of that into State of the
Lake. Does council have anything for State of the Lake? Councelor Hughes. Um
yeah, I know it was mentioned in Joe's presentation earlier, but I did just
want to do a special shout out to Community Services for wonderful Canada
Day events that they put on at the MRC. They did a fantastic job. There was lots
of community members in and out of the building all day. It was a really nice
community feel. Lots of businesses participating, lots of fun from uh the
screams I could hear from watermelon eating and moose calling. And I found it
to be very creative and innovative and it was a great time even though we had
to be inside. Um so I just wanted to give a special shout out to Abby and her
team and uh just community services in general for a job well done.
» Thank you. Anybody else? Okay. Well, I'll just make a quick
congratulations to uh Counselor Achoba and his lovely wife and their family for
the addition of their beautiful daughter Abiella,
» who was born on Saturday. So, congratulations and uh look forward to
you reading council reports in the middle of the night when you're not
sleeping uh thanks to having the new baby around. So just wanted to pass
along a congratulations from council and administration and that is it for me
from state of the lake >> councelor Aoba
» motion to adjurnn. >> There's a motion to adjurnn. Any further
discussion? Call to question. Those in favor and that one is carried.