New charter school in Andrew now expecting over 100 students enrolled for inaugural September opening
BY JANA SEMENIUK
Andrew Rural Academy, a new K-12 charter school, opening this fall in Andrew, appeared as a delegation to Lamont County Council members on Apr. 1, giving an update on their progress which included a staggering number of enrollments expected, to support their Jan. request for funding.
The school made a request at the county’s Jan. 14 council meeting for $50,000 to assist in hiring a superintendent, which the council delayed until the official charter was approved.
After the charter was approved Mar. 5, the council again decided to wait to see if the school could fulfill the conditions of their charter approval which included proof the school building complies with health, safety and fire standards, have at least the number of enrolments required for viability, and appoint a superintendent as well as a secretary-treasurer.
ARA project manager Stan Zabrick said, at the meeting, that the school has surpassed their initial expectation of 87 students to now over 100.
“We will be past the 87 number. In fact, it's looking like we will open the
“We're in operation now. We're no longer anapplication.It'sgotime...” Stan Zabrick
school in the 100 to 105 student range at this point,” he said.
Zabrick explained that prior to the school having an official approval from the Province, they could only take parent declarations of enrollment intention to get an estimate of their numbers.
He said that since the approval letter was received Mar. 5, they have been working to convert the declarations to official enrollments, and added that walk-in enrollments, that were not in the initial declarations, are also being received daily.
Zabrick said there have been a few surprises of where the interest in attending the school is coming from and how bussing will be arranged.
“We thought that we had only a few from Bruderheim and that they would come to Lamont to be picked up. It's, in fact, looking more like there's sufficient momentum in the Bruderheim, Fort Saskatchewan, Josephberg area that would cause us to consider Bruderheim as a pickup point for bussing,” he said.
“There will be a pickup point encompassing Hilliard and Chipman families. We have families coming from Veg-reville, (and) Two Hills will be a pickup point as there’s sufficient mass there (too).”
In terms of the conditions on the approval letter, Zabrick said he has spoken with several other approved charter schools who have told him the
conditional letter was normal. Additionally, Zabrick said June 2 is the deadline for completion of nearly all the items.
“We will have no problem delivering well before June 2,” he said, adding the school is in need of the additional funding from the county.
“We're in operation now. We're no longer an application. It's go time, and some of these activities (hiring, purchasing office furniture) carry costs.”
Zabrick said Elk Island Public Schools removed the school and office furniture when they closed the school in June 2023.
He emphasized that over 200 interested families came out to their Feb. 28 open house, and ARA is the first charter school to offer STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) with a rural focus.
He said he is working with a field services manager to determine a preliminary budget with timelines.
The council approved a motion to prepare a report for funding approval and bring it back to the Apr. 15 regular council meeting.
Church hit with $35,000 bill for Feb. hall
BY JANA SEMENIUK
Lamont County will be looking to Regional Fire Chief Bo Moore for explanations around a $35,000 fire bill charged to the Holy Ascension RussoGreek Orthodox church whose hall burned to the ground on Feb. 6. It was located North of the Skaro Hall on range road 200. Lamont County Communications Director Jay Zaal said, by email at the time, the fire began just after 5 p.m. and crews from Bruderheim, Lamont, Chipman and
Mundare responded.
He said that crews from Andrew were brought in to do fire watch overnight. The structure collapsed the next morning at 8:30 a.m. which resulted in the fire lighting up again.
The bill was discussed during the Apr. 1 County council meeting where Chief Administrative Officer Peter Tarnawsky said that normally the landowner would make a request by delegation to council, but council could refer the matter to the fire chief.
“That’s probably what I would suggest,” said Reeve David Diduck.
“Nothing we can do with this report, not knowing the facts. We should be referring it to the fire chief and he can bring us back a report.”
Councillor Dan Warawa expressed surprise there was not something in the bylaw protecting churches from the extreme charges.
“Do we not have something that for religious organizations or the churches?,” he asked. “These churches are
fire
barely surviving, and you hit them with a $35,000 bill.”
CAO Tarnawsky said it was something the council could direct in the future.
“I think the more immediate need is to understand and see the direction from Council based on understanding the situation,” he added.
A motion was approved to refer the item on the fire billing for the Holy Ascension Russo-Greek Orthodox church to the fire chief.
Andrew councillor/Deputy Mayor, cuts LOA short
BY JANA SEMENIUK
Andrew councillor
Merwin Haight came back early from a three-
Chykerda, Elaine Gail
We called her “Nuvy”, you knew her as Elaine….
So sad to let you know Elaine Gail Chykerda has left this world to join her parents, Mike and Laura, and her brother, Brian, on March 22, 2025.
Elaine spent her life the devoted mother to her precious daughter, Karmen, and was then blessed to care for her grandson, Ashton, whom she cherished beyond measure. She leaves them to deeply mourn her loss, along with her siblings Timothy, Collin, Catherine (Darren), and Marianne (Tim) as well as numerous nieces, nephews and a loving extended family.
Elaine has been an incredible inspiration in her fight against health crisis after
month leave of absence he requested in Jan.
Haight said, at the Mar. 26 Andrew Council meeting, that he felt he needed to come back early after learning former Deputy Mayor Tammy Pickett was resigning from the council.
“It (my leave) was basically cut in half. I would have been returning in May,” he said. “(It’s because of) resignation changes and immediate challenges (in council). My community needed me.”
Haight first requested the LOA at the Jan. 29 meeting where he said he needed the break for health reasons. Haight
health crisis, rising up to go another round…
Her generosity was abundant and she was always coming home with items for everyone. Her favourite holiday was “Happy, happy Easter!”, when she would particularly enjoy the shopping and gift giving.
She loved her cats, her family and singing rock and roll karaoke!
Special thanks to the outstanding staff at Fort Saskatchewan Community Hospital for helping the family care for Elaine in her final days, and to Nurse Lana and her Kidney Care Team at the Royal Alexandra Hospital prior to that.
A private family graveside service will be held at a later date and any donations can be made to the Kidney Foundation or a Cancer fund of your choice.
Rest in peace, dear Elaineno more sorrow, no more pain….time to take this little girl home.❤
9914 - 103 St. Fort Saskatchewan, AB
Phone: 780-998-1422
Fax: 780-998-1423
Email: fortsask@serenity.ca Website: www.serenity.ca
would not disclose what the current status of his health challenges are or what the health challenges were.
Meanwhile, after Pickett’s resignation letter was accepted by the council, they went about the business of deciding on a new Deputy Mayor.
Councillor John
Vanfeyvin nominated Haight which was carried unanimously.
Haight’s position as Deputy Mayor could be short lived as the next municipal election is on Oct. 20.
The Village of Andrew will have one major change with the upcoming election in that their
mayor position will now be a four-year elected position verses the council appointing their mayor every year during the Oct. organizational meetings.
Nominations are being accepted until Sept. 22 at noon for the four council positions and one mayor position.
Newly named Andrew Deputy Mayor Merwin Haight holds up his nameplate at the Mar. 26 village council meeting. Photo: Jana Semeniuk
Lamont County council looking to fund agreement made for Chipman bridge in 2023
BY JANA SEMENIUK
Money promised to the Village of Chipman in 2023 to help fund their bridge replacement, was put back into the Lamont County’s reserves after it wasn’t used, and council will now look for a way to honour the agreement.
AECOM Engineer April Kliachik sat with Chipman Chief Administrative Officer Pat Tomkow to provide updates to the County during their Apr. 1 regular council meeting, and reaffirm their original funding agreement from 2023.
The 62-year-old bridge, which has needed replacement since 2022, has been continually delayed in construction due to cost increases and funding delays.
Continued on Page 13
The 62-year-old Beaver Creek bridge near Chipman as it appeared in 2023.
Photo: Jana Semeniuk
Opinion
Will Carney act on his own words?
BY JOHN MATHER
That was an exciting week wasn’t it.
U.S. President Donald Trump unleashed his reciprocal tariffs on the world as promised … and lo and behold the sun still rose in the east the next day.
Trump didn’t unleash reciprocal tariffs on Canada as the financial pundits and Liberals had been predicting. Still there are tariffs on steel, aluminum and the auto sector. Certainly that hurts.
Stellantis immediately shuttered a plant in Windsor, Ontario for two weeks, along with plants in Michigan and Indiana.
So it hurts, as predicted, on both sides of the border.
Out west U.S. farmers are screaming mad at the man they promoted into the White House last fall.
Potash used to fertilize soy crops in the west has been hit with tariffs as it’s exported from Canada, mostly from Saskatchewan, to the U.S,
Farm implements such as seeders produced in Manitoba are being hit with tariffs as they cross the border and U.S. farmers are up in arms.
Sitting quietly on the sidelines was Alberta Premier Danielle Smith who had lobbied the U.S. government by meeting with the president and appearing on several media outlets, including a few despised “right wing” outlets to promote diplomacy rather than retaliatory tariffs as mandated by the Liberals of Mark Carney and supported by Ontario Premier Doug Ford.
There could be more tariffs coming on Canada as this process plays out, but right now the world’s economic stock markets are crashing and U.S. economists are doing their best to have Trump change course on his one trick pony.
But this brief recess could spell a problem for the Liberals as we approach the April 28 election day.
Certainly the western provinces don’t want four more years of destructive Liberal rule.
But in Ontario and Quebec and the urban section of B.C., Liberal support has climbed based on replacing Trudeau with the economist Mark Carney.
Now depending on which British spokesperson you want to believe, Carney wasn’t the saviour he claims to be as the head of the Bank of England.
Rather some former Prime Ministers of Britain call him an unmitigated disaster.
He has moved his Brookfield Asset head offices out of Canada to New York, albeit prior to becoming Liberal leader, but it really doesn’t show much business confidence in Canada.
And since the election was called, Carney and his Trudeau Liberal team has been running hard on the argument they are best prepared to handle the unpredictable Trump administration.
Yet, last week Trump sort of gave Canada a small reprieve in the trade wars. So let’s see the Liberal campaign for the next couple of weeks run on their record of the past ten years!
Carney claims he axed the carbon tax on consumers. Sure on April 1, there was a reduction at the gas pump. But the actual tax can’t be revoked except through an act of parliament and parliament won’t sit until a new government is elected.
Do you really believe Carney, who is further left than Trudeau on oil and gas and the environment and climate change, is really going to change that law? If so, I have a bridge to sell you in Brooklyn.
Carney actually has said we must change the way we do business with the U.S. Canada needs to build an economy Canadians can control, Carney said, and that would include rethinking its trade relationship with other partners.
“Canada must be looking elsewhere to expand our trade,” he stated.
“We must protect our economy and maintain our sovereignty.”
“If the United States no longer wants to lead,” he said. “Canada will.”
So Mr. Carney put action where your mouth is.
Last fall Canada moved in goose-step with the U.S. on putting 100 per cent tariffs on Chinese made EVs. And a 25 per cent tariff on Chinese steel imports.
In response, China announced it would impose its retaliatory tariff effective March 20, 2025 on Canadian canola meal and canola oil in response to finding Canada’s imposition of tariffs on its electric vehicles (EVs) at 100 per cent, and on aluminum and steel at 25 per cent, is discriminatory.
That has had a very noticeable impact on western farmers who grow canola.
So Mr. Carney, if we’re not marching in goose-step with the U.S. any longer, ease the Chinese restrictions and make sure they ease restrictions on canola.
That would make the importation of Chinese EVs a business decision for those who want to sell them, yet it would boost western farmers by allowing them to retain their Chinese markets for canola.
Whoa! That could be doing something for the west while offering a straw to grabs for Ontario’s auto sector.
Something well outside the pages of the Liberal playbook.
Could Carney make that work? Does Carney even care?
Kerry Anderson Publisher John Mather Reporter Jana Semeniuk Reporter Crystal Moren
BY HAZEL ANAKA
So, what’s happening in your neck of the woods? Were you dismayed by that dump of snow or glad because it was juicy and ideal for trees and perennials? It doesn’t appear there will be the extraordinary spring flooding that happens sometimes. And frankly neither the County nor its residents will miss that. Do you remember the year a video of our Honda CRV falling axle deep into a sinkhole just an eighth of a mile from home made it onto social media? A culvert had finally collapsed long after it should have been replaced.
Hopefully, the late snowfall will also reduce spring fire season and keep everyone and their property safe. Hopefully, by now all the news coverage about fire issues and fire billing has prompted people to get
FROM WHERE I SIT: Doing Otherwise
the insurance coverage they need to protect their assets. Rural people and Albertans in general are very independent and self-reliant----we take care of ourselves.
Speaking of Alberta did you hear about the poll or study that showed that Albertans swear the most in Canada? I only caught it once on TV and missed all the crucial info but that headline. Damn. I might need to look that up. In extreme times, I've been known to add a blue tinge to the air but for the most part rely on a more sophisticated vocabulary to convey what I think. Most people will agree that an occasional well-timed curse is exactly what’s required. But when foul language punctuates every sentence, every thought, every waking breath there is a bigger problem at play.
Speaking of play, there will be some happening at the farm this week as we babysit Gertie. Hilary is celebrating a milestone birthday with some friends in Argentina as we speak. Because her partner Ash is a CPA partner in an Edmonton firm, this is crazy time for tax filing. I didn’t
think he needed the extra work and distraction of babysitting Gertie particularly when he goes into the office to work. So, she’ll come here for a few days so she can smell everything and get those paws good and muddy. He will also take some time off Sunday to take me to lunch and then use Hilary’s Citadel ticket. A change is as good as a rest whether you’re man or beast.
What else is new around here? Our 2019 Maytag dryer (really a Whirlpool) died one day a few weeks ago. You think you have more than enough clothing and bedding until you can’t do laundry for an extended time. Eventually, the day arrived for the service call. As you’ve come to expect, I was curious about what was going on. Curiosity turned to dismay as it appeared the machine was being disassembled into a pile of pieces. Twice. But that is the only way to get to the heart of the matter. And to further test the machine as one problem is fixed at a time. You can’t do diagnostics on a dryer in pieces. I was impressed by the array of purpose-built tools to
Lamont and Area
help get the job done. A collapsible “snake” makes sure all the venting to the outside is free and clear. A tiny inflatable ‘hoist’ lifts the machine just enough to reach those front panel screws that are inaccessible any other way. Gauges and testers measure all kinds of outputs. Long story short a small section of the heating element arced out and stopped the dryer dead in its tracks. Between parts, labour, and a service call fee we were out over $550. And that was before the financial chaos in the world starts affecting the cost of everything. In a world where things are built to fail rather than last, you can understand why often the choice is to replace rather than fix what is broken. For now, this particular machine lives another day.
I’d like to publicly congratulate the hardworking, dare I say relentless, driven-bybelief people who banded together to re-imagine the shuttered Andrew School as the Andrew Rural Academy Charter School. As someone who has seen my share of closures and decline in small town Alberta, this
is an incredible success story. When the timing is right, I promised them I’d use my platform here to tell the story of how each of us can help. Like many of you, I was skeptical. We all think we recognize a pipe dream when we see one. But this is different; I’m now a believer. Children mean life and future; children mean Andrew will live another day as a proud village and not become a financial bur-
den to the County. We can all name villages that shrank to the point of insolvency only to revert to hamlet status under their county’s jurisdiction. We can’t let that happen.
So, what’s the takeaway here? While we all need to work, we also need to know how to play. Whether it’s a household appliance or a community, we need to understand when to invest to save what already exists. Doing otherwise serves no one, from where I sit.
From the files of the Lamont Leader
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March 11, 2011 edition of the Lamont Leader: Chipman Players theatre group held its first public play Friday evening before a sold out crowd. Above, Buck Brawn (Bruce McGregor) is proposing to Star Bright (Stephanie Leslie) in a scene from “Pony Expresso” held at the National Hall in Chipman.
Bruderheim council gets Hub briefing
BY JOHN MATHER
Bruderheim town council got a briefing during their April 2 meeting from Alberta Hub executive director Bob Bezpalko.
He gave the town a presentation on what the Alberta Hub does.
Bezpalko said he lived in Elk Point and he felt his community and Bruderheim had a lot in common since they both had oil and gas industries.
“Alberta Hub had been around since 1988,” he said. “And it started because communities in the areas had shared concerns and interests.
“He added both Bruderheim and Elk Point worked together with other communities on a regional basis.
“It is regional economic development,” he said. “That’s what Alberta Hub is all about.”
He added it was one of nine economic regional hubs created across the province.
He added the Hubs covered 10 counties and had 51 members.
Lamont County and the towns and villages within the County have no representation on the Alberta Hub Board of Directors.
Bezpalko said his role was to bring together
regional opportunities that could benefit the entire membership to some degree.
“The east side of the Hub is heavy oil development while the west side of the Hub is more conventional oil and gas development.”
Members contribute financially to the Hub and Bruderheim pays 50 cents per resident for its membership.
Bezpalko said he ghosted Bruderheim council meetings and economic development strategies and then he went to work on behalf of Bruderheim.
“My role is to work
closely with the smaller communities in the hub to help facilitate economic development,” he said.
He added he works closely with the province when it comes to economic development also. He pointed out the hub didn’t replace local economic development but rather enhanced it.
“We can apply for grant funding which can help the Hub overall, but also provide information that can be used by specific communities for their own development.
He said collaboration between the Hub and its member towns is to provide links to each other
on a common website.
He pointed out barriers to investment in the rural area was a lack of broadband coverage, high business operational costs, and access to capital.
Bezpalko stated the
communities had to work hard to remain sustainable and Deputy Mayor George Campbell said for small communities to survive the communities had to have local people who “had the drive to make sure
that happens” and Bezpalko agreed.
He said he had grown up in Berwyn and that community no longer existed because it had been absorbed into the surrounding county.
Lamont County Cease Communication policy narrowly approved
BY JOHN MATHER
Lamont County’s cease communication policy came back to the County council on April 1.
Chief Administrative Officer Peter Tarnawsky told council an amended policy was being brought forward and one of the changes was to allow for an external review. Under that the policy states, “When a complaint has exhausted all review options, the resident may contact the Alberta Ombudsman to objectively review the issue and assess whether the process of ‘Ceasing Communication’ was administered fairly.”
Division two Councillor Aaron Wick said following a Coffee with a Councillor he had two calls from ratepayers who had called the Ombudsman’s Office and they were told his office wasn’t there to solve their disputes.
“What can they do?” he asked. He added the two individuals weren’t aware of each other either.
Charge shutout Boston
BY JOHN MATHER
Gwyneth Philips
earned a second star as the Ottawa Charge blanked the Boston Fleet 4-0 April 2 on their final game before a break for the Women’s World Hockey championships.
This break could give Bruderheim goalie Emerance Maschmeyer additional time to heal from a lower body injury which has sidelined her for the past few weeks.
Shiainn Darkangelo earned first star status in the game against the Fleet as she put three goals past Fleet goalies Aerin Frankel and Emma Soderberg.
Ottawa’s Jincy Roese scored her third of the season to round out the Ottawa scoring.
Ottawa sits one point behind Boston for the final playoff spot with two games left in the regular season.
The Charge visit Montreal April 26.
Tarnawsky said he didn’t know how either individual may have described their situation to the ombudsman.
“I do know the ombudsman has been engaged by at least one person and had their complaint investigated through two levels of review.”
Neil Woitas said he had heard from people that if the CAO didn’t like someone then they may be subject to a cease notification letter.
Division one Councillor Daniel Warawa felt there had to be a reason someone may get such a notice.
Council then voted on the policy and it was approved by a three to two vote.
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BY JANA SEMENIUK
Bruderheim resident, Norrie Campbell who received a double lung transplant in 2022, has died from cancer. She was 66.
Her husband, Bruderheim Deputy Mayor George Campbell, said she slipped away peacefully at 3:15 p.m. on Mar. 21 at the University Hospital.
“She went peaceful, with dignity, and for those who remember her, with a smile on her face,” said Campbell who was with his wife as she passed.
In an interview with the Lamont Leader in 2023, Norrie said she learned she would need the double lung transplant after a COPD (Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) diagnosis in 2016. She finally received new lungs on May 7, 2022 and was doing well until she travelled to ON in 2024.
Campbell said Norrie became confused around taking her anti-rejection medication resulting in several missed doses and wound up near death in a Toronto hospital.
“The Sudbury hospital stabilized her, and they got her on an ECMO machine and transferred her to Toronto. (They) gave her a 5 percent chance of living,” he said. “They had to use extensive anti rejection drugs, and that was start of the problems. She had a mini stroke.”
Campbell said it took several weeks for Norrie to return home and once she did things seemed to be going well. Norrie was even driving again.
“Norrie was holding her own until she had the accident,” he said.
Campbell said on Nov. 15 Norrie’s car collided with a semi truck on highway 15, sending Norrie once again to the hospital.
“She had a broken shoulder and was roughed up pretty bad,” he said, adding Norrie was able to come home just after Christmas. Within weeks, Campbell said Norrie began com-
plaining of a soreness in her jaw.
“The doctor said she had strep throat and gave her some antibiotics. I phoned him back because her pain was getting worse, so he ordered a CAT scan,” said Campbell, adding that Norrie was put on strong painkillers and couldn’t swallow.
Finally, while waiting for the CAT scan, a scope examination showed a
large tumour on Norrie’s tonsil growing into her neck and lymph node.
Today, Campbell is slowly navigating his life alone. During a recent visit from the Lamont Leader, he was trying to decide where to hang a picture Norrie bought for him from the hospital’s craft fair.
“She bought this for me three weeks before she passed away,” he said, holding a large
detailed painting of a horse’s head. “She thought I would like it.”
Horses was one of the common interests that first brought the couple together in 2013. Campbell said he was working at the town Esso station where Norrie would frequently visit to purchase gas and cigarettes. They chatted about horses among other things, and one day Campbell saw Norrie working as a greeter in the Fort Saskatchewan Walmart.
“I met a friend of hers and said I would like to have coffee with Norrie sometime, and damn it if he doesn’t tell her right away,” he said chuckling at the memory. “We had the same interests, horses (and Norrie) was feisty. (That sparked my interest).”
Continued on Page 11
Continued from Page
After a year long courtship, the couple married on Sept. 13, 2015 in the Bruderheim gazebo. Campbell said they had a lovely ceremony, coupled with a reception where local caterer Elsie Matthews cooked the dinner. Campbell said Matthews will also be preparing the lunch at Norrie’s Celebration of Life on Apr. 12 at the Bruderheim Community Hall where he said all are welcome to say goodbye.
“I feel, right now, empty,” he said. “I've seen it all in my life. I've seen happiness. I've seen prosperous times. I've seen hard times, but the hardest time for anybody is when you have to put loved ones in the ground.”
Campbell said over the years he has lost three sons, three grandsons, and his first wife of 43 years, Helen, to cancer in 2012.
Campbell said he believes everyone leaves behind a legacy when they pass away, and that Norrie had a legacy too.
“Norrie’s legacy to life was never turn away from those in need. If there was a stray cat in the town she was feeding it. And I’m talking about the humans,” he said.
“She never thought that she was better than anybody else, and she didn't give a good damn what she looked like if you don't like it, that was her. She'd go uptown, used to make me so mad, with her hair sticking out
all over. She always had time to talk to you, her house was always open. I would like for everybody to remember her (legacy). (It’s) to never give up hope. She fought to the bitter end, and that's what Helen did too. She fought to the bitter end, and through all the pain. She never said, Why me?”
Update:
In a May 2023 article in the Lamont Leader, detailing Norrie’s transplant
journey, her sister Tammy was featured alongside Norrie, when she was diagnosed with the same lung condition and the additional diagnosis of emphysema. Tammy was also waiting on the transplant list and endured a heartbreaking failed attempt in April 2023 when the donors’ organs were deemed too damaged for the transplant. As of Dec. 2023, Tammy finally received her own lung transplant and today is reportedly doing well.
Chipman bridge proposal
Continued from Page 3
The County first agreed, in May 2023, to fund $360,000 of the $1.8 million replacement cost, as Lamont County residents are major users of the bridge.
A funding application to Alberta Transportation, for $1,350,000, had already been approved, leaving $450,000. The Village would cover the remaining $90,000.
Kliachik said that after
a geotechnical investigation was done in Aug 2023, they found “bedrock at a higher elevation than we expected.”
She said this meant they could no longer use the less expensive steel piles and had to move to more expensive concrete.
“Following that we requested additional funding from Alberta Transportation to cover the additional cost and that levy was denied in Nov. 2023,” said Kliachik, adding they redesigned the bridge to a culvert replacement, trying to stay within the
original budget.
Kliachik said the project will be put to tender on Apr. 14 and is expected to be completed Oct. 15.
She said the current request from the council was to reaffirm the funding agreed upon in 2023. She said the new dollar amount, finalized from AECOM, would be available within one week.
“The plan would be the (Chipman) Village is going to send a note over to the County of Lamont, just with the updated totals and the request for that additional funding
amount for the unfunded amount from Alberta transportation,” she said.
Chipman CAO Tomkow said that every funding application takes six months for an answer and when the last one was denied they took more time redesigning the bridge to meet the available finances.
“The culvert option is probably close to the original costs but we don’t have final numbers yet,” said Tomkow.
Councillor Aaron Wick asked if the new design would offer the same width and load capacity as the old one.
AECOM representative who joined the meeting online, Amy, said the width would be the same and the design could support a CL800 truck.
She also said the culvert will come in pieces and be bolted together.
Reeve David Diduck said he spoke to Chief Financial Officer Rodney Boyko about the original funding agreement and realized the money, while available in 2023 when the agreement was made, was not carried forward to the next year after it wasn’t used.
“That original money that we had set aside is
no longer there, but we have to look at the proposal as a new expenditure,” said Diduck. “It wasn't in our budget, so we'd have to find the money from somewhere in order to offset that. Just so you know where we're standing on that particular item.”
Councillor Neil Woitas asked where the money went after it was budgeted for and not used, and Reeve Diduck said it went back into reserves.
Council approved a motion for administration to bring the bridge proposal back to the next council meeting.
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CELEBRATION OF LIFE
Celebration of Life for Jarett Wade Ross
Saturday, April 12 at 2 p.m. Viking Multiplex
CARD OF THANKS
I would like to thank Dr. Hanton and nurses and all of the Staff at the Killam Health Care Centre for the wonderful care and kindess shown to Larraine Thompson during her brief stay. Your compassion and care was very much appreciated
Brian
COMING EVENTS
Battle River Art Club Show and Sale
Saturday, April 26
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Sedgewick Community Hall Lunch and snacks available For more information
Call Chris McMullan 780-384-2167
Join a registered dietitian to learn about eating to stay strong and healthy on Wednesday, April 16 @ 1:00 pm at the Tofield Golden Club. 5004 - 54 Ave, Tofield.
Killam Health Care Hospital Reunion for all Past and Present Employees
Saturday, May 24
From 2 to 5 p.m. at the Killam Catholic Church Basement Hall 5214-50 ave
Round Hill Easter Market
Monday, April 14
from 5 pm - 7 pm. For a table, text or call Terry 780-678-6131
TM14C
GALAHAD LIONS CLUB
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Monday, April 14
Galahad Agriplex 7:00 PM 15 Go-Go Bingos, 1 Bonanza, 1 Door Prize Master Card $5.00
The Viking Historical Society Annual General Meeting, followed by a regular meeting, will be held Thursday, April 10 at 7 p.m. at the Viking Legion. New members are welcome to attend!
Not ready to let go of your freedom (but needing support)? I can help with that. Enjoy your home. Light cleaning/meals. Emotional/mental companionship. Games/Cards. Phone Jackie (780) 385-1019.
FIREARMS WANTED FOR OUR 2025 AUCTION PROGRAM: Firearms, Ammunition, Accessories, or Militaria. Collections, Estates or single items. For Auction, or Possible Purchase: Contact us: 1-800-694-2609, Email: sales@switzersauction.com or Visit us @ www.switzersauction.com for Auction Dates & Details.
FUNDRAISER
Chemo Care Hydration Packages. $55 buys one and Sonya donates one. Includes: Night Cream, Lip Balm and Foot Lotion.
The goal is 300 pkgs by June 30. See Sonya Martens at the Tofield Market, Fridays April 11th & 25th. www.MaryKay.ca/smartens 780-2404506
FOR SALE
Western Rawhide 15" Saddleuse little, new bridle, saddle carry bag, the package for $750.
Squire solid body electric guitar, strap, case, small Marshall amp $325.
Tandy leather hand press, still in box $325 firm. Phone 780-662-3431 Tofield.
Anyone who is interested in any Raspberry Plants, Blueberries, Saskatoons - This is your last chance for Ordering. Deadline is April 30. They must be gone by June 1. Contact Brian at 780-678-0053 whether they need to be potted or bare root.
All Classified Ads booked in our paper will also be posted online at the new online Classifieds Section at no additional cost. THOUSANDS of page views online every month in addition to our THOUSANDS of weekly readers. Plus our site is Google SEO optimized. IT PAYS TO ADVERTISE WITH US!
2008 Dodge Ram 3500 St Quad 4x4 Auto. Positive Air shut off, power chip, 6.7 Cummins Turbo Diesel. 329,000km - approx 23/mpg. Excellent condition. Call 780-888-1666
BUILDINGS FOR SALE
INTEGRITY POST FRAME BUILDINGS since 2008 BUILT WITH CONCRETE POSTS. Barns, Shops, Riding Arenas, Machine Sheds and more, sales@integritybuilt.com 1-866-9747678 www.integritybuilt.com.
LIVESTOCK FOR SALE
Registered Red & Black Angus bulls for sale. Call 780-986-9088
SEED FOR SALE
BARLEY – *NEW-AB Standswell* Smooth AWN, High Yielding, Grain and Forage Great Lodging Resistance. 1st NITROGEN USE EFFICIENT CEREAL IN CANADA. Attracting Japanese Interest. OTHER BARLEY: Cerveza, CDC Austenson, CDC Maverick, Sundre. WHEAT – Pintail, Forage or Grain. OATS – AC Juniper, AC Morgan, AC Mustang, Derby, CDC S01 Super Oat. PEAS – Very Early Yellow Peas, Forage Peas. ALSO AVAILABLE: Polish Canola & Spring Triticale. mastinseeds.com; 403-5562609.
14p
UA County Gold for sale. Treated or Untreated. Non-GMO. Good for Organic Market. call 780-336-6700 12/14C
FOR RENT
If anybody who likes country living and is looking for a place to rent, Brian has a basement available with two bedrooms. Would like a non-smoker. The rent would be $800 per month, plus a damage deposit equal to one month's rent. Located 4 miles east of Bawlf, off Highway 13 on Range Road 172, the second place on the east side of the road. No pets allowed.
If interested, call Brian at 780-6780053 for appointment to view. Available May 1.
FARMLAND FOR RENT
West ½ of SW Qtr Sec-27-Twp-56Rge-21-W4. Strathcona County. South Bank of North Saskatchewan River. 72 Acres. 60 cultivated for grain/hay. Phone landline: 780-434-0388 11/12p
HELP WANTED
The Viking Historical Society is looking for summer staff at the Viking Museum. Duties include yard maintenance, cleaning, directing tours, and cataloguing artifacts. Students and mature applications alike may apply with resume and cover letter to Box 106, Viking, AB T0B 4N0
HEALTH
HIP/KNEE REPLACEMENT. Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING? The Disability Tax Credit allows for $3,000 yearly tax credit and $30,000 lump sum refund. Take advantage of this offer. Apply NOW; quickest refund Nationwide: Expert help. 1-844-4535372.
SERVICES
General Contractor
Red Seal Journeyman Plumber and Gasfitter
Bathroom Renos & Tile New to the Area
30 plus Years of Experience Dave 403-999-8464
Medical Taxi Service
Personal Taxi Service to Edmonton and Back -$175
•Office Hours Mon-Fri 9-5
•Absolutely NO Hidden Fees
•Escort to Reception/Waiting Room
•Pick up and Drop off at your door
•Top Notch Service!
•Includes up to 4 Hour Wait
•Locally Owned and Operated 587-987-7810
Roy's Handyman Services. Flooring, trim work, basement finishing, decks, fences, kitchen cabinet installs and carpentry work. Call 780-232-3097
APRIL SENIORS SPECIAL! 10% MORE ON ALL CASH PAYOUTS. SILVER Coins, Canadian Coins, GOLD coins, chains, rings...We buy them ALL! Silver flatware, tea sets, all things silver, Canadian Mint sets. We come to the privacy of your home, no fees! Call Joy or Ted 1-825-966-4373.
Egg hunt and new vendors flock to Lamont Spring Market
BY JANA SEMENIUK
The Lamont Farmer’s Spring Market, on April 5, attracted more than 250 people and plenty of
new vendors. Attendees to the Spring market were also treated to several door prizes and an Easter egg hunt for the
kids.
Children of all ages, armed with easter baskets, tried their luck at finding over 200 of the hidden easter eggs tucked inside the Lamont Arena.
Market manager Anke Schroeder said that each egg held special chocolate treats.
“(The eggs) are filled with some chocolate eggs. And the metallic ones have lots of the sour bunnies, but they have lots of them in there. So, if they find a metallic one, it's really special,” she said.
Schroeder added that nearly 40 vendors took part in the Spring Market with several new ones in the mix. She said the market has completed its probation phase with the Alberta Farmer’s Market organization and is now official.
“We are fully
approved and that makes us special as an Alberta approved (market),” she said. “We have more exposure (through the Alberta Farmer’s Market app) and you can be safe to buy any of the products here. We abide
by the 80/20 rule (which) means 80 percent of the things we sell here are either made baked or grown right here in Alberta, which I think is very important. And the 20 percent is (commercial).”
Schroeder said the next market will be held on Apr. 16 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. then the markets will be paused until May 28. She said the schedule for the summer season hasn’t been determined yet.
COUNCIL UPDATE – March 11 & April 1 Meetings
Council has directed that Administration publish a summary of decisions from the past two Council meetings each month. Meeting highlights are also summarized on the Lamont County website, and social media after each Council meeting. Once approved at the next Council meeting , all directions, approvals, and items discussed are in the approved minutes posted at lamontcounty.ca.
The following are updates from the past two Council Meetings, including important initiatives and activities that were discussed, debated, reviewed, and what Council has directed Administration to complete and implement.
March 11 Regular Council meeting (minutes were approved April 1).
Highlights from this meeting include:
Fire Services Bylaw Updates
Council discussed its recent Non-Statutory Public Meeting related to the billing cap of $10,000 in the Bylaw. As this was only amendment proposed in
Administration to set up a workshop to discuss potential amendments for – this will be brought to a future Council meeting if amendments to the Bylaw are made. Council also con
Public Works External Review
Council discussed the costs and use of external review of the Public Works Department and was presented with terms of reference for this study. Council DEFEATED this motion.
Council Business
–
- Council discussed drainage on TWP560 and requirements for Alberta Environment and Protected areas, directing Administration to bring back preliminary designs/costing to a future Council Meeting.
- Drainage Program and is based on plans that handle a 1 in 10-contracted installs planned for 95 culverts.
culverts, stockpiling and clay costs, as well as additional options for crews to work
- Council discussed a Road Use Agreement matter and amendments to be brought forward.
- Council discussed Andrew Rural Academy’s recent Charter approval and directed Administration to invite the school as a delegation to further understand additional
- Council directed Administration to bring back amendments to its Gravel Truck Haul Policy to remove Article 3G related to Non-Resident/Non-Taxpayer participation.
the April 1 (and April 2) Council meeting (minutes are approved next Council meeting).
Highlights from this meeting include:
Financial Audit
Council received presentation from Metrix Group LLP regarding the Audit of the –This is third-party independent auditing completed annually as required by the Municipal Government Act (MGA). The signed audit will be presented at a future Council also discussed the Tax Rate Direction, and directed Administration to bring forward the Tax Rate Bylaw – to be presented at a future meeting.
Road Graveling Program & Truckers Gravel Hauling (Contracts)
Gravel Hauling - Contract) to remove operators from outside Lamont County for contracted drivers.
Letters to Premier
Council directed Administration to prepare a letter to the Premier and Minister of Education related to the School Foundation Levy increase (a Government of Alberta proposed 11 per cent increase) and outline the impacts to residents; and a letter to the Ministry of Transportation and Economic Corridors and to Canadian National Rail related to required maintenance of abandoned rail line weed maintenance (as proposed in Committee Reports &
Process Water Line Update
Council approved its Process Waterline Owner’s Representative. More details on this will be announced shortly.
Council Business
- Council received two delegation presentations – AECOM and the Village of Chipman related to the bridge located in the Village of Chipman and for Lamont County to assist with funding; a delegation update from Andrew Rural Academy related to a funding request for consideration (to be deliberated at a future mtg.).
- -statutory Public Meeting Available on Lamont County’s YouTube channel.
- Council completed all readings of its Line of Credit Bylaw - . of the borrowing
- Council was updated on the acquisition of four properties not sold @
still options for interaction (including by letter/email). The policy is focused on harassment prevention when a question or topic has no further resolution available for a single matter, and/or when the individual is belligerent or abusive in their interactions. Council directed Administration to amend this to include the Alberta Ombudsman for appeals to letters sent as an alternative resolution.
munis.
- Council received update on its Dust Control options; mining and reclamation of CountyFederal regulations and the MGA; Road use agreement exemptions;
Young children proudly hold their baskets ready for the Easter Egg hunt at the Lamont Farmer's Market Apr. 5. Photo: Jana Semeniuk
Community Services: Serving Lamont County, Lamont, Bruderheim, Mundare, Andrew & Chipman (scan the QR code)
(VISIT: lamontcounty.ca/community-programming for full posters, dates, contact information, registration info & locations; or call 780-895-2233 for info./registration). Current CALC, FCSS & KFRN and seniors’ activities include:
1. Volunteer Appreciation Week and Dinners – April 14-17 (County-wide). Contact Community Services for last minute availability – 780-895-2233.
2. FCSS: Volunteer Income Tax Program – Contact FCSS at 780-895-2233 x226 (assistance for low income, single parent, seniors and tax troubles/questions).
3. FCSS: Youth Centres in Bruderheim (Tuesdays), Chipman (Mondays), and Mundare
4. FCSS: Fitness Fun for Older Adults (Mundare Sr. Citizens Club) to April 10 (Thursdays). 5. FCSS: Parents and Tots: Andrew, Lamont and Mundare
6. CALC: My Journey…Who Am I? | English Language Learning | Kitchens Programs | Digital Skills for Seniors
7. CALC/FCSS: Parents and Tots – Featuring Ready, Set, GROW!. Monday mornings in Andrew. For more info. contact cheryl.b@lamontcounty.ca
8. FCSS (after school) – FLEX for Boys – sessions in Bruderheim on Thurs. 9. FCSS (after school) – True2You (for Girls) – sessions in Lamont on Tues.
10. KFRN: Connecting Generations – Free Easter themed fun with our friends at Beaverhill Pioneer Lodge. Register by Apr. 11. signup.com/go/RqjXCLb
11. KFRN: Grace In Progress – Self-care program for caregivers of children ages 0-18. Register by Apr. 16. $10 fee/participant. signup.com/go/PxDEViX
12. KFRN: Family Activity Night: Free drop-in program filled with fun spring-themed activities. No registration required @ Lamont Public Library, 5-7 p.m., April 23.
13. KFRN: Welcome to Kindergarten: For children registered with EIPS and attending a kindergarten program in the Lamont County Region - Mundare: April 24, Bruderheim: May 28, and Lamont: TBA.
14. Meals In Motion: contract Chrissy at 780-975-9592 to order for APRIL (see full menu at lamontcounty.ca/community-programming).
15. Seniors’ Coffee: (Wed.) 10-11 a.m. in Andrew, & (Thurs.) 10-11 a.m. in Mundare. Join FCSS for coffee, conversation, snacks, & assistance with senior-related forms/programming. FCSS offers Seniors Supports fr. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Mundare (Thurs.). Seniors Coffee is also in St. Michael (Thur.) from 10 a.m. to noon.
16. Seniors Bus Trips: Day trips to local malls; $15/trip. Departs: 9 a.m. @ Lamont Rec. Centre on Apil 21, May 18 & June 23. Reserve with Helen at 780-895-7539. Also check out Lamont County Events Calendar for local community events, public meetings and other important dates (lamontcounty.ca/eventscalendar).
2025 Community Grants Program (commenced March 1, apply at lamontcounty.ca/grants). Intake is live for community sponsorship requests. Centennial Scholarship Application (deadline June 30).
o Lamont County residents pursuing post-secondary education can apply annually lamontcounty.ca/scholarships
Community Sponsorships (apply at lamontcounty.ca/grants).
o Intake is live for any community sponsorship requests. This is separate from the annual Community Halls and Transportation grants – yearround application for community sponsorship for events and activities, examples include event sponsorship, appreciation nights, etc. for Council consideration.
Farmer Appreciation BBQ – more details in May.
Weed Wednesday – REMINDERS of noxious weeds. See Lamont County Facebook and X for posters each week. See lamontcounty.ca/weeds.
Clubroot and Canola Maps: Please be advised the 2024 ASB Clubroot locations and anticipated 2025 Canola Cropping Restrictions maps are available for additional awareness/planning at lamontcounty.ca/ departments/agricultural-programs/pest-control-programs
Did You KNOW? ...
Other Taxes Not Paid to Lamont County
2025 Private Dust Abatement (Deadline is April 15 and July 31 – Lamont County Public Works has two intake periods for spring/fall) lamontcounty.ca/departments/public-works/roads/private-dust-control o Intake twice per year, fees as per the Fees and Charges Bylaw. Reeve’s Annual Year in Review – and Video Message. See these at lamontcounty.ca/news and on social media.
Fort Saskatchewan and District Chamber of Commerce Trade Show and Market (DOW Ctr): April 25-27 - fortsaskchamber.com/trade-show-sale
Easter Closure: Please note, Lamont County offices (Administration Building and PW/ASB Building) are closed for the Statutory Holidays on April 18 (Good Friday) and April 21 (Easter Monday).
Beaver control measures start in early spring. Please do not remove or damage traps.
Did you know Lamont County does not receive all the tax dollars you’re responsible for each year?
In fact, your tax bill includes rates that are not set by Lamont County, rather by the Government of Alberta (GOA) & the other designated requisition/expense—collected on behalf of these areas. Your annual taxes are split between (approx. 3/4 of collection goes to Lamont County):
1. Education Amounts (Alberta School Foundation) - set by the Government of Alberta. Note: in 2025, these amounts are set to significantly increase (forecasted at an 11 per cent increase in 2025);
2. Seniors' Foundation Requisition (this is set annually related to the GOA Housing Act); and
3. Municipal Waste Expense (this is determined annually through waste usage and is from the Waste Commission Board).
Lamont County budgets rely on tax revenues in order to provide effective and appropriate service levels for all taxpayers. These service levels are determined by Council and reviewed annually to ensure it meets County needs and budget. As many costs are passed from Government of Alberta to Municipalities (including policing costs), there are significant considerations for tax rate and use of County reserves. Also see lamontcounty.ca/faqs for more of your questions answered. For tax-related questions, please contact Lamont County's Tax Clerk (finance@lamontcounty.ca).
Council and Special Meetings
REGULAR COUNCIL AND Agricultural Service Board (ASB) Meetings
Coffee Talks (Coffee with a Councillor) – At 6 p.m. on April 22 (typo last week said Apr. 21), at the Andrew Lions Den (Div. 4). And 10 a.m. on April 30, at the Mundare Seniors Centre (Div. 1) lamontcounty.ca/coffeetalks
The public is welcome to attend any scheduled meeting in person or virtually). Meetings start at 9 a.m. in Council Chambers/Lamont County Admin. Bldg. (unless otherwise noted).
Next Regular Council Meeting: Tuesday, April 15 | Next ASB meeting: Wednesday, April 9 | lamontcounty.ca/governance/agendas-minutes | lamontcounty.ca/agendas-minutes-asb |
Please Note – inFocus is also available for viewing online at: lamontcounty.ca/communications (for those wanting to view the weekly submission as full-sized PDF and to access hyperlinks).
Community Programming