Local News
M.D. farmland taxes increase, residential taxes decrease
By Rob VogtRatepayers in the Municipal District of Willow Creek who own farmland will see an 13 percent increase in their mill rate, those who own residential property will see a 21 percent decrease, and the non-residential mill rate will go up two per cent.At its April 10 meeting, the M.D. council discussed what the mill rate for 2024 will … Read more…
Town to launch information campaign on water conservation
By Rob VogtLooks can be deceiving.The recent heavy snowfall has provided some moisture, but this area is still in drought, and the Town of Claresholm’s water restrictions are still in effect.The town gets its water from the Pine Coulee Reservoir west of Stavely, and Alberta Environment and Protected Areas has already started to fill the reservoir.“The reality is they need … Read more…
Stavely fire department welcomes new chief
By Rob VogtThe Stavely Fire Department has a new fire chief, who brings a wealth of knowledge to his new role.Ben Blakeley was officially appointed chief on March 19 by Stavely town council, but has been a member of the department for five years.Born in Montreal, Blakeley moved to Calgary where he earned experience in a variety of fields.He has … Read more…
Open house held on Granum stormwater plan
By Rob VogtThe Municipal District of Willow Creek recently hosted an open house to provide the public an update and answer questions about the Granum Stormwater Management Plan.The open house was held at the drop-in centre in Granum on April 2, and led by Craig Pittman, the M.D.’s director of infrastructure.It attracted more than 20 people interested in the project.In … Read more…
Claresholm town council updated on water situation
By Rob Vogt The Town of Claresholm is preparing for another spring and summer where water conservation measures will again have to be adopted.At its March 25 meeting, Claresholm town council discussed the water situation after a report from administration.Abe Tinney, the town’s chief administrative officer, explained the town is still in a water shortage and Stage 3 of its … Read more…
Council updated on activities of Claresholm RCMP detachment
By Rob VogtThe Claresholm detachment of the RCMP was busy with a number of activities over the past three months.Sergeant Perry Pelletier, of the Claresholm RCMP, appeared as a delegation at town council’s March 25 meeting.Pelletier explained the police are working on using drones and he will be having two members trained on the use of them.He added there are a … Read more…