Forestburg council renews recreation tax

Forestburg council renews recreation tax

The Village of Forestburg renewed its special recreation tax at the March 19 council meeting, maintaining the rate at $230 per improved property. This annual tax aids in funding community recreation, amid plans for significant swimming pool improvements. Councillors also approved increases in certain fees to enhance cost recovery for local services.
Flagstaff County reviews idea to purchase Strome School site

Flagstaff County reviews idea to purchase Strome School site

Flagstaff County Council is considering acquiring the 7.7-acre former Strome School site, deemed surplus by the Battle River School Division. The site includes two baseball diamonds and a playground. Council discussed potential benefits, including improved maintenance, increased recreational space, and necessary environmental inspections, while ensuring no residential development occurs on the property.
Flagstaff council advocates against closure of research facilities

Flagstaff council advocates against closure of research facilities

At a March 11 meeting, Flagstaff County Council heard from farmer Ken Eshpeter, who voiced concerns over the potential closure of the Lacombe federal research station. Eshpeter emphasized the importance of continuous agricultural research and urged council members to advocate against the closure, which he believes would harm Alberta's farming community.
Flagstaff County Council receives presentation on Highway 13 road widening project from Daysland to Bawlf

Flagstaff County Council receives presentation on Highway 13 road widening project from Daysland to Bawlf

During a Flagstaff County Council meeting on February 11, Alberta Transportation presented a highway widening project for Highway 13 between Daysland and Bawlf. The 13.5km project aims to improve safety and connectivity by widening the road from 8.5m to 13.6m. Estimated costs are $22.5 million, with construction targeted for mid-2027.
Elizabeth Chambers of Brownfield, Peighton Hampshire of Sedgewick, and Owen Johnson of Killam will be representing Zone 4 at the Alberta Winter Games, where they will compete in the Slalom events. The three are all members of the Valley Alpine Ski Club, from Valley Ski Hill in Alliance. The games are taking place Feb. 13 through 15 in the Lakeland Region, where Bonnyville, Cold Lake, and Glendon will be co-hosting different events.

Local skiers heading to Alberta Winter Games

Peighton Hampshire, Owen Johnson, and Elizabeth Chambers from the Valley Alpine Ski Club have qualified for the Alberta Winter Games in Alpine Skiing, alongside their coaches. Competing in Slalom events, they are part of a returning race team that trains intensively. The games, hosted in February, are a significant opportunity for young athletes.
Hardisty Hospital Emergency Department changes

Hardisty Hospital Emergency Department changes

Alberta Health Services announced changes to the Hardisty Emergency Department's hours due to a shortage of physician coverage. The ED will now operate from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and remain closed over weekends and nights. Nursing staff are available 24/7 for patient assessments and referrals.