Disclaimer: Council Highlights do not replace official meeting minutes. To view the official minutes once they are published and read the full agenda package, please visit our Agendas and Minutes webpage. To watch the full meeting video, please visit our Youtube Channel.
Regular Council Meeting
The Regular Council Meeting on May 27 began at 10 a.m., following Council’s attendance at the push-in ceremony for Chestermere’s new fire truck. The vehicle features the same distinctive shade of red as the city’s first fire engine, a colour selected by the Chestermere Fire Department to honour the community’s proud firefighting heritage.
Proclamation: Seniors’ Week
Council has declared June 2–8, 2025, as Seniors’ Week in Chestermere to celebrate the contributions of older adults. Several events are planned throughout the week, though Council will miss the opening ceremonies due to their attendance at the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) Conference in Ottawa. They do plan to join other events later in the week.
Chief Administrative Officer Delegation Order Repealing Bylaw
Council passed Bylaw #019-25, officially repealing Bylaw #007-24. They also rescinded Motion #250422-10, which had proposed the repeal of the same bylaw. This action helps ensure the city’s bylaws remain current and consistent with the Municipal Government Act.
Permit Bylaw Updates to Improve Flexibility
Council approved Bylaw #007-25, which replaces the Building, HVAC, Plumbing, Gas, and Electrical Permit Bylaw (#024-16) with a new administrative policy. The updated policy offers clearer guidelines and increased flexibility for permits, helping to reduce administrative workload while upholding safety standards.
Procedural Bylaw Amended for Greater Access and Engagement
Council passed Bylaw #004-25 to update the Procedural Bylaw in alignment with provincial legislation. The amendments ensure electronic access to Council meetings and extend public presentation times from 15 to 30 minutes. The bylaw also removes the Code of Conduct section in anticipation of Bill 50, enhancing accessibility and encouraging greater public participation.
Election Bylaw Amended to Improve Accessibility
Council approved Bylaw #022-25, introducing Elector Assistance Terminals (EATs) for future municipal elections. These terminals are designed to support voters with disabilities, making the voting process more inclusive. Council also directed Administration to include a formal definition of EATs in the bylaw.
New Heritage Committee to Preserve Local History
Council adopted Policy #854, establishing the Chestermere Municipal Heritage Advisory Committee. The committee will be responsible for identifying and protecting historical sites and structures within the city. Council also directed Administration to begin the application process, with appointments scheduled for the June 24 Council Meeting.
2025 Tax Rate Bylaw Approved
Council passed Bylaw #023-25 to establish property tax rates for the 2025 budget. The approved rates are designed to sustain essential services while supporting responsible financial management. This approval ensures tax notices are issued on schedule, aiding both municipal service delivery and long-term financial planning.
Short-Term Rentals Framework in Development
Council directed Administration to develop regulations for short-term rentals, including amendments to the Land Use Bylaw addressing location, parking, and traffic considerations. A new licensing and safety policy will also be created. The initiative aims to balance community concerns with the potential economic benefits of short-term accommodations.
Final Phase of Skylar Townhomes in Kinniburgh
Council approved the final development permit for the last six Skylar Townhome buildings at 248 Kinniburgh Boulevard, marking the completion of the planned development that began in 2013.
Grant Adjudication Committee Policy: Council adopted updates to the Grant Adjudication Committee (GAC) Policy, clarifying grant exclusion criteria and streamlining the approval process. The changes aim to improve clarity and simplify procedures for applicants.
Motions from Closed Session
RCMP Staffing Concerns: Council has directed the Mayor to collaborate with Staff Sgt. Klassen in drafting a formal letter to RCMP Staffing, outlining concerns about staffing levels in Chestermere.
Crime Prevention Strategies: Administration will work alongside the RCMP to develop improved communication strategies focused on crime prevention, ensuring residents are informed and engaged in community safety efforts.
Community Safety & Bylaw Enforcement: Administration has been tasked with preparing a report for Council detailing a coordinated approach to enhancing community safety and enforcing municipal bylaws. This report will examine how to best allocate resources to support public order and safety.
Lakeside Greens Golf Course Acquisition: Council has approved moving forward with the acquisition of Lakeside Greens Golf Course and authorized the finalization of key agreements for its operation. The Mayor and Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) are empowered to complete and execute the Purchase and Sale Agreement (PSA) and Operational Services Agreement (OSA) as presented, ensuring a smooth transition. They are also authorized to approve minor revisions, provided those changes are not deemed significant by City’s legal counsel. This proposed acquisition aims to preserve the site as a valuable community asset while exploring future opportunities for public use.
Recreation Centre Update: Council has directed the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) to proceed with the Recreation Centre update, as discussed during the closed session, to ensure continued progress on this important community project.