Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! I am taking a few days off over Christmas. The next issue will land in your inbox in the New Year.

KCP Winter Maintenance - The County will make its best efforts to maintain the Kinbrook Connection Pathway within Lake Newell Resort during the winter, but heavy snow accumulation could limit operations. If conditions become prohibitive, a portion of the route, particularly the connection outside the hamlet, may be temporarily closed, as the pathway remains under construction.

Cost Share “in play” - The County reviewed their anticipated contribution to the Brooks wastewater project, with a current estimate of $3.3 million budgeted across 2026 and 2027. The figures are based on an initial assumption of a 10% share of the overall project cost. Responding to questions about whether that percentage was fixed, Matt Fenske, Chief Administrative Officer, said the cost share is “in play,” noting the figure will be reviewed as the wastewater service agreement with the City of Brooks is updated. Current wastewater volumes from Lake Newell Resort are closer to 5%, and future growth assumptions will factor into the final allocation. Administration also expects to meet with the Lake Newell Resort community association to discuss the potential impact on residents, while exploring grant funding and possible local improvement taxes.

The Mosaic Theatre Society has a Holiday Treat for the City. 

They will be running two family movies on Dec. 27th & 28th for everyone to come out and enjoy. The movies that they’ll be showing are The Polar Express at 3:00 pm and Elf at 6:30 pm on both Saturday and Sunday.

Tickets will be just $5.00 each, and there will be a concession stand available.

To find out more and to spread the word, follow, like and share.

Crop Diversification Centre - In under a year, staff have restored functionality of CDC by deploying $3.5 million in provincial capital funding. The Griffin Building is now renovated and fully occupied, greenhouse bays are back in use, and initial farming activity has begun generating early revenue.

Avian Influenza in Backyard Flock - A case of avian influenza has been confirmed in a backyard flock within the county. Federal and provincial authorities led the identification and notification process. Backyard flocks were identified as more vulnerable due to closer contact with migratory birds and lower biosecurity compared to commercial operations. The case came to attention after a bird was observed “running around the parking lot like it was drunk, with its head flopping over and defecating everywhere,” prompting concern and reporting.

Transportation Study - The County approved a motion supporting the City of Brooks application to the Alberta Community Partnership Grant to update its regional transportation study. Administration noted the study is overdue and would reflect recent growth and changes, while allowing the County to include key interests near the city.

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