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Please note that due to a service outage, this meeting was recorded in two parts.
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Governance & Priorities Meeting
Council acknowledged Scott Caithness for his extensive volunteer contributions to various committees and his dedication to the community. Deputy Mayor Sandboe recognized Red Dress Day, the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and 2SLGBTQIA+ people, with Council observing a moment of silence.
Updated Election Signage Bylaw:
Administration presented information on the Municipal Election Signage Bylaw (#012-25). In light of anticipated changes to provincial legislation, the Committee moved to defer further discussion until the new legislation is finalized.
2024 Property Assessment Overview:
Accurate Assessment Group Ltd. provided Council with an overview of the 2024 property assessment process, detailing its determination and the inquiry process for property owners. The Committee accepted the presentation for information.
Habitat for Humanity Information Presentation:
Habitat for Humanity outlined its plans for a 24-home development in Dawson Landing, including timelines, community involvement, and alignment with city priorities. Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit organization that supports affordable homeownership through community partnerships and volunteer-driven construction. The Committee accepted the presentation for information.
Animal Control Bylaw Updates:
Council discussed proposed amendments to the draft Animal Control Bylaw (#025-24) and. Following feedback, the report was accepted as information. The bylaw is scheduled for further consideration at the May 13th Regular Meeting of Council.
Dawson Harbour Heights Tree Planting Initiative:
The Committee reviewed and approved Administration’s efforts to collaborate with a local developer and landowners on a tree planting initiative for six properties in Dawson Harbour Heights.
Presentation Advocating for Turf Athletic Field in Chestermere:
Residents presented information highlighting the need for improved athletic fields, particularly at Chestermere High School. The Committee accepted the information and authorized the Mayor to write a letter of concern to Rocky View Schools and directed Administration to seek clarification on the Division’s grounds maintenance practices.
Grant Adjudication Committee Policy:
The Committee received information on proposed updates to Policy #856, the Grant Adjudication Committee (GAC) policy, and accepted it for information, directing Administration to bring it back to the Regular Meeting of Council on May 27, 2025.
Recreation Development in Dawson's Landing:
The Committee reviewed the Mayor's Task Force for Recreation Subcommittee’s report on a phased approach to recreation development in Dawson's Landing. The Committee accepted the report and advised Administration to present to Council for further direction by the end of June 2025, also directing clarification on the new high school's orientation with Rocky View Schools.
Council Committee Updates:
Council members provided updates on various committee activities.
- Mayor Dean shared details about the Mayor's Task Force for Not-for-Profits' progress on an online community directory and an upcoming meeting with the local MLA to discuss municipal-provincial matters.
- Deputy Mayor Sandboe reported on business walks conducted by Community Futures Wild Rose to engage with local businesses, identify challenges and opportunities, and promote available services.
- Councillors Grant and Wawrzynowski shared insights from the Economic Development Association conference, emphasizing the importance of a strategic economic development plan, community engagement, and defining Chestermere's brand. The potential revival of "Lemonade Day" for youth entrepreneurship was also discussed.
- Councillor Randhawa provided an update on the Police Communication Committee, noting discussions around dog park signage and potential fines for non-compliance, as well as a suggestion for a full-time animal control officer.
- Councillor Schindler addressed the dissolutions of the Calgary Metropolitan Regional Board and the Joint Planning Area 2, and the need to transition to inter-municipal collaboration frameworks (ICFs) with neighbouring municipalities, advocating for continued trilateral cooperation. Councillor Schindler also provided details on The Lake and Watershed Committee's progress on developing a strategic plan for the lake, ongoing recruitment of members, and initiatives such as lake cleanup and harvester updates were also highlighted. A reminder was issued to boaters to ensure their vessels are properly cleaned before entering the lake, helping to prevent the introduction of invasive species.