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Click here to see the PDF Version of the March 25 Council Highlights.
Chelsea Outline Plan and Land Use Amendments Approved
– Council approved the amendments to the Chelsea Outline Plan dated March 2025. This land use amendment aims to increase residential dwellings and diversify housing, potentially expanding the tax base and fostering inclusive communities, while a proposed R-4 parcel change would ultimately decrease overall unit density.
– Council also gave Second and Third Readings to Bylaw #009-25, which amends the Land Use Bylaw #020-24. The amendment changes the land designation from R-2 (Residential—Semi-Detached) to R-3 (Residential—Multi-Unit).
Pattison Digital Free-Standing Sign Motion Tabled
– Council tabled the motion regarding the second digital free-standing sign from Pattison Outdoor Advertising Ltd. The motion sought to amend the lease agreement, removing the second sign location and issuing a refund for the amount paid.
– This matter will be reviewed at a future Council meeting after further consultation with the relevant parties to explore alternative sign locations and other related considerations.
Clearwater Drive Freestanding Sign Approved
Council approved the installation of a freestanding sign at 55 Clearwater Drive, subject to the conditions outlined in the approval documentation. This signage aims to improve visibility and business recognition in the area.
New Library Funding Discussions and Alternative Approaches
– The council decided to table motion 250325-10, which aimed to reverse the previous decision (motion 240209-11) to include a Library Off-Site Levy in the 2025 Off-Site Levy amending Bylaw.
– The motion will be revisited during the April 8, 2025, Regular Meeting of Council.
– In response to ongoing discussions regarding the new library, Council directed Administration to work closely with the Chestermere Library and the development industry to revise the Chestermere Library Business Plan (originally approved in December 2023 and revised in March 2024).
Whistleblower Policy Approved
– Council approved Policy #129, the Whistleblower Policy, which establishes a formal process for reporting unethical conduct, fraud, or any actions that are contrary to the public interest. The policy aims to ensure that employees and citizens can report concerns without fear of retaliation.
Ministerial Directives Completed
– Council formally acknowledged the letter and Ministerial Order MSD:015/25 from the Minister of Municipal Affairs, confirming the completion of all provincial directives. This includes measures that have been put in place to ensure that Chestermere is compliant with provincial governance standards.
– “This is a big day for the City of Chestermere,” remarked CAO Kent Edney, “It puts this inspection behind us, and the minister is satisfied with how council is operating, with how administration is operating… It’s in the rearview mirror now.”
Mayor Authorized to Send Letter of Support
Council authorized Mayor Dean to send a letter of support to Alberta Community Initiatives in regard to the Chestermere Historical Foundation’s application for the Alberta Community Initiatives’ Project Based Grant. This support is aimed at helping secure funding for historical preservation projects in Chestermere.
Rescinded Motion on Charity Golf Tournament Fund Usage
Council rescinded motion 250211-14, which had previously directed Administration to bring back recommendations for the criteria and options for the use of funds from the Charity Golf Tournament. The matter will be revisited at the Governance and Priorities Meeting on April 1, 2025.
Charity Golf Tournament Proceeds to be Discussed
Council directed Administration to present recipient options for the proceeds from the Mayor and Council’s Charity Golf Tournament at the Regular Meeting of Council on April 8, 2025. This motion aims to determine the best use of funds raised through the event, supporting community-focused initiatives.