Bruderheim cuts ribbon on expanded water reservoir
Bruderheim officials and guests officially opened the town’s expanded water reservoir on Nov, 15. Helping cut the ribbon were from left: Mark Grzeszczuk, of MPE; Dennis Tomuschat, Bruderheim Chief Operating Officer; Phyllis Forsyth, Chief Administrative Officer; Mayor Karl Hauch, Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors Minister Devin Dreeshen; Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville MLA Jackie Armstrong Homeniuk; and Karl Coates from AGS. Photo by Jana Semeniuk
$5.9 million facility brings Bruderheim’s fire protection standards up for future growth
BYJOHN MATHER
Amid strange security precautions, Bruderheim town officials and other dignitaries cut the ribbon for the community’s $5.9 million water reservoir expansion which greatly enhances Bruderheim’s growth potential.
Mayor Karl Hauch, Fort Saskatchewan Vegreville MLA Jackie Armstrong Homeniuk, and Transportation and Economic Corridors Minister Devin Dreeshen all spoke at the ribbon cutting Nov. 15.
Prior to introducing Armstrong Homeniuk, Bruderheim Chief Administrative Officer Phyllis Forsyth said, with the MLA’s work and support provincial funding was obtained meaning the Town’s portion of the reservoir costs could be captured from existing reserves meaning no tax increases to support the project.
The project will use $140,000 from reserve funds.
“This is an essential project for your town,” Armstrong Homeniuk said.
“Your commitment for supporting and building Bruderheim’s future is truly inspiring,” referring to the community’s leadership team.
“It shows that even in a small town big things are possible.”
She suggested the improved reservoir will give the community the opportunity to pursue future economic growth.
Dreeshen said the local MLA had “been instrumental in advocating for this project.
“It’s great to see this project go from inception to the ribbon finally being cut,” said Dreeshen. “It’s obvious that the need was there.
“The benefits will be for so many
generations and it will enhance the fire services in the event of an emergency.”
He added the $3.4 million investment from the Province is something he was proud of and was glad to get the project “across the finish line.”
Mayor Hauch thanked everyone for coming to the ribbon cutting.
“This has been an amazing dream,” he said. “Our Chief Operating Officer Dennis has been very quick and accurate in pointing out when things need fixing and while infrastructure is not as pretty as a new skateboard park or a better play area, it is hugely important for the future of the community and Dennis has been instrumental in making sure we’re aware of those issues.”
He added the reservoir expansion was a project that would benefit the town for a long, long time.
“We have always been known for
punching above our weight and this has been a big challenge, but we’re not afraid of a challenge and this will benefit the town for a long time to come.”
He added the expansion would make Bruderheim the only community within Lamont County that would meet National Fire Protection Association standards.
When council was discussing this project several years ago they were told the town had a flow rate of about 103 metres per second to the fire hydrants when a flow rate of 250 metres per second was needed. That standard is now reached.
“Our council believed we could achieve this and most importantly it was for our town residents,” added Hauch. “They deserve the very best and today we’re fortunate to be able to provide it for them.”
County councillors question fire readiness in area
BY JOHN MATHER
Following a truck accident Oct. 28 when the Vegreville Fire Department was called to set up a perimeter before EMS units from Andrew and Lamont could respond, Chief Bo Moore was questioned by Lamont County councillors Oct, 29.
Moore said Mundare’s Department was unable to respond to the accident because it didn’t have the personnel available during the day.
He added, that there were currently 11 personnel in the Mundare Fire Department with three trainees working to join the department.
When asked specifically about the Oct.24 rollover, Moore explained the call-in for a semi rollover on Highway 16 which was updated to a truck carrying hazardous goods placards.
Vegreville was asked to establish blockage on the eastbound lanes of Highway 16 and, if required, provide assistance on the downwind side of the event.
“When our crews arrived on scene we established there was no release of product and once we had established traffic control on the east and west lanes of the highway and the north range road, we released Vegreville back into their district.
“They were brought in as a mutual aid partner.”
Councillor Aaron Wick asked if Vegreville was first on the scene and Moore said they had staged “well east of the event,” and Lamont County crew were first on scene.
“No Mundare crew responded,” said Moore. “It was the middle of the afternoon on a work day.”
Moore said the volunteers component of the fire departments in Lamont County was similar to all jurisdictions across the province.
“We have the ability to call in multiple stations and put apparatus on the road from multiple locations,” he said, adding there had been many events in the county during the past year and in many situations the prime station was unable to field a crew but members from the other four stations could make it to the scene of the incident.
Lamont County has five stations; in Andrew, Bruderheim, Chipman, Lamont and Mundare.
Moore said he had no concerns with members being able to attend an event.
“We can have Mundare field crew during the weekend.”
He told council a survey of members showed that work was the primary thing that would keep them from responding to an event followed by family commitments.
“If people are unavail-
able to respond to events in their district because of work, we have other districts that can attend and we notice this across all five of our districts,” explained Moore.
He said some members work out of town or out of the area and just aren’t available to respond during the day. He added, it wasn’t unique to Mundare.
Chief Administrative Officer Peter Tarnawsky told council that in budget discussions council would see a case where full time firefighters could be hired to fill the daytime shifts.
He added the county had never had a no response issue.
Wick asked if fire response was quick enough to meet the 14 kilometre radius to prevent as premium on homeowners fire insurance.
Moore said that could be a concern.
“There’s not a lot of people who work in the community they serve in,” he said. "Many live in one district and work somewhere else.”
Moore added firefighters do live in the communities where they serve but some also have a fair drive to reach the fire station to respond to an incident callout.
Wick was concerned about the firefighters' drive to the station and then the distance to the fire event if the local station couldn’t respond.
Moore agreed that was a challenge they faced with five rural stations.
Moore said the majority of people applying for the fire departments, generally applied for the station nearest where they lived.
Councillor Neil Woitas asked if there was a concern that all training nights were on Tuesday evenings and Moore said the training sessions could be moved to suit the members.
“We try to appease the majority and there’s one station that trains Wednesday nights,” he said.
Woitas added he got several texts from firefighters with concerns about the Mundare station. Councillor Daniel Warawa wondered why he didn’t receive the same texts.
“We have a good station,” Warawa said. “Granted some people have retired recently but
Mundare is still a good station.”
Tarnawsky encouraged Woitas to share any information he received with either Moore or himself, so they could respond directly.
Moore added firefighting is a 24/7 operation and they generally have no issues in assembling a crew in the evenings or weekends, “but we recognize they have their primary
employment as their main priority.”
Tarnawsky added paid firefighters would be one of the tough decisions the County would have to make to maintain people’s fire insurance and keep the stations fully operational. He added other rural municipalities were facing the same problem.
“It's not something that’s unique to us,” said Tarnawsky.
Monday November 11th Andrew Lions Club President Ron Stratichuk (left), presented Sergeant Scott Waddell with a cheque for $500 for the Military Family Resources Centre at the Edmonton Garrison. The amount was made up of donations from the lunch that the Andrew Lions club put on following the Remembrance Day ceremony. Chelsea Tobias photo.
BY MELISSA
MACINTOSH-YOUNG
The historic Victoria Hotel, a local Bruderheim bar, was robbed at gunpoint late Thursday evening in a brazen act that has left the community shaken.
Owner, Al Dymterko, stated that he received a call from his employee late Thursday, approximately 1:30 am, that two men had robbed the bar.
He said the they had entered the hotel through the south entrance. Both were wearing masks and
gloves. One had a sawed-off shotgun, the other a pistol. There were two employees working at the time and a few patrons in the bar.
The two men pointed their guns at staff, told patrons to get on the floor and demanded cash. The assailants made off with a safe and an undisclosed amount of cash from the register.
One employee was assaulted during the armed robbery.
Dymterko said that the robbery was very traumatizing for his staff.
RCMP responded quickly, securing the scene and interviewing witnesses.
Unfortunately, this is not the first armed robbery at the Victoria Hotel. Dymterko said that he was robbed at gun point approximately four years ago, just after he bought the hotel.
“Times are tough for everyone but unfortunately these guys just made things even harder for me and my staff,” he said.
It was reported that the Strathcona RCMP
located an abandoned vehicle at range road 211 and township road 544, early Friday morning. The vehicle was involved in a single vehicle collision and is believed to have been involved in the robbery.
Fort Saskatchewan RCMP continue to investigate and are looking to speak with anyone who has any details regarding this incident, who possess security video that may have captured the suspect vehicle within Bruderheim or anyone who may have noticed anything suspicious within the town of Bruderheim on November 14th or 15th.
If you have any information, you are asked to contact the Fort Saskatchewan RCMP Detachment at 780-9977900. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-2228477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com <http://www.p3tips.co m/> or by using the "P3 Tips" app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.
In Loving Memory
Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us everyday Unseen,
Michael Yaworski
November17,2009
Victoria Hotel owner Al Dymterko says his staff are understandably shaken.
Opinion
Smith fights for Alberta as Liberals fight against it
BY JOHN MATHER
As the Trudeau Liberals continue to do whatever they can to stifle Alberta’s oil and gas industry, Premier Danielle Smith is fighting back for her province.
The Feds under the hyper-foolish eco terrorist Stephen Guilbeault, announced its draft oil and gas emissions cap.
Guilbeault announced draft regulations for capping greenhouse gas emissions from oil and gas sectors –which is to say Alberta, B.C., Saskatchewan and Newfoundland.
The regulations would require a 35 per cent reduction in emissions from oil and gas below 2019 levels by 2030. “It is not an emissions cap, it is a production cap,” Smith said in a press conference, where she threatened to launch a constitutional challenge to the proposed caps.
She boldly stated she “was pissed off” by Guilbeault’s draft regulations.
While the Feds proudly stated the draft would cap pollution, drive innovation and create jobs, many analysts refuse to drink that kool aid.
But in reality, while it may well cap pollution and drive some innovation, according to several recent analyses it won’t create jobs in the oil and gas industry and will, in fact, kill many jobs.
The Conference Board of Canada think-tank estimates that the cap would reduce Canada’s GDP by up to $1 trillion between 2030 and 2040, kill up to 151,300 jobs across Canada by 2030, and slow national economic growth from 2023 to 2030 from 15.3 per cent to 14.3 per cent.
Another study by Deloitte estimates that, due to the federal cap, Alberta will see 3.6 per cent less investment, almost 70,000 fewer jobs, and a 4.5 per cent decrease in the province’s economic output (i.e. GDP) by 2040.
With the election in the U.S. of Donald Trump as the president elect, he has threatened to put huge tariffs on all imports to the U.S, including oil and gas.
To counter this Smith was invited to join the Governors’ Coalition for Energy Security.
Alberta will join 14 States in the coalition whose aim is to highlight the shared interest of all members in ensuring affordable, reliable and cleaner energy for their residents.
CONTINUED
The coalition was founded by Louisiana Governors Jeff Landry and New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu.
“I am honoured to join the Governors’ Coalition for Energy Security and would like to extend my sincere thanks to Governors Landry and Sununu for the invitation,” said Smith
“Alberta plays a vital role in North American energy security, serving as the largest supplier of crude oil and natural gas to the United States. Our contribution is set to grow even further as we look to work with the Trump Administration and other US partners to increase our pipeline capacity to the United States.
“We are proud to collaborate with this coalition of allied States in advancing energy security, reliability, and affordability for Americans and Canadians,” she added.
She has also stated she plans to be in Washington during the same time as the inauguration of Trump as the new president in January.
Meanwhile Guilbeault is in Azerbaijan moaning about climate change at COP29 and pledging more Canadian tax dollars to help those poor third world counties affected by rising sea levels and damaging storms caused by “climate change.”
The Environment Minister said Canada will spend $160 million to launch a new fund called GAIA to finance projects that aim to reduce emissions in lower-income countries.
In fact the Environment Minister has floated the silly idea of the new fund will include direct grants as well as longterm loans with the goal of getting $2 billion from private sources as well as the government.
Among the strategies discussed, Guilbeault suggested creating a carbon tax on shipping emissions.
“We are very supportive of the discussions that are happening at the International Marine Organization to put in place some kind of levy on international marine transportation,” he said last week.
However, news of another carbon levy was met with swift criticism from the Conservative party, which has been adamant that it would remove the existing domestic carbon taxes, if elected.
“Canadians discovered that Justin Trudeau’s radical Environment Minister, Steven Guilbeault, wants to create a new global carbon tax on international shipping. This tax money would then be sent abroad to other countries,” read a statement from Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre’s office.
The statement then called for Guilbeault to testify before a House of Commons Committee on the newly proposed carbon tax “that will make everything more expensive.”
And of course we know the corrupt Liberals really don’t care how expensive things get for everyday Canadians, as long as they can settle in their plush easy chairs at the end of the day and chant “It’s a Wonderful World.”
Canada has already pledged to contribute $5 billion to developing countries trying to fight climate change from 2021 to 2026.
However, G20 countries are now being asked to increase their funding, with estimates claiming that USD $2.4 trillion is needed per year by 2030 for “emerging markets and developing countries” transition to clean energy, according to a G20 climate finance report.
Yet Canada isn’t close to keeping its commitment to fund NATO and that could lead to issues with the Trump government in short order.
The Liberal priorities moving forward are totally messed up.
Time for an election.
Kerry Anderson Publisher John Mather Reporter Jana Semeniuk Reporter Crystal Moren
BY HAZEL ANAKA
I don’t know about you but I’m plenty ticked off by the postal carriers walking off the job. I’m not a huge online shopper so I can live without receiving that sort of mail. However, part of my business model is selling online through various sales platforms and /or live YouTube sales. Surprisingly, nearly every single customer of mine is from the United States.
Even before the strike I was at a competitive disadvantage because of how expensive shipping is especially if it is to the southern United States. Imagine a line, even as the crow flies, to cover the distance from Andrew to Florida. Further exacerbating the problem is the fact I live in the boonies. After much research, I found an Alberta-based (!) shipping service that doesn’t require me to have my
FROM WHERE I SIT: Mad as Hell
own website so I can embed code into my shop backroom. A previous suggestion that might have worked required taking my parcels to a drop off point. In Toronto. Toronto. This Alberta service, ChitChats requires me to take ‘batches’ of parcels to an Edmonton depot. Not really the answer for ‘one of’ sales.
Thanks to Canada Post, I will have to try this method this week!
As much as I’m committed to life-long learning, I really hate having to learn more technological stuff. Though I must say
that the ChitChats website is one of the best, clearest, seemingly userfriendly sites of any kind I’ve ever visited. Let’s see if that holds true as I process my first batch of parcels. Or if I’m back here next week doing a rant.
Trudeau’s Liberals campaigned in 2015 on respect for unionized workers and the collective bargaining process. In nearly a decade of broken promises, false starts, back pedaling, boondoggles, and inertia you will not be surprised to learn that they threw that playbook out the window just a few weeks
ago. They have now intervened in two separate strikes and ordered people back to work and/or the acceptance of a mediated solution. Ask port workers or the people who operate Canada’s two railway systems if that sounds like respect.
And let’s be clear, I’m not trumpeting the sanctity and virtues of unions or condoning stirkes. I’m just calling out governmental hypocrisy and virtue-signaling by the Liberals. I vaguely remember paying union dues in a long-forgotten short-term job. I have no personal or familial
information about the pros and cons of unions vis a vis their impact on individuals versus the economy writ large. I was just a little kid when the foundry my dad worked at went on strike. The only thing I remember hearing about was scabs. As far as I knew scabs were the dry itchy things that covered wounds. I was far too young to understand any implications for our household. Having always worked independently as a small business owner, farmer, elected official, contractor, or artist I’ve needed to learn self-reliance and
From the files of the Lamont Leader
Lamont
Lamont and Area
LAMONT UNITED CHURCH 5306 - 51 Ave., Lamont, AB 780-895-2145 Rev. Deborah Brill SUNDAY
AA Meetings Thursdays at 8:00 pm
how to live with the uncertainty of the marketplace. I traded freedom for security. So, yes, I hope (and predict) the government will force the postal workers back to the job. In a shrewd move, the timing of the strike was planned to inflict the most damage given how close we are to Black Friday/Cyber Monday and Christmas. As the uproar and outrage grows louder, the government will be forced to act. As usual, there is no one innocent party or ‘right’ position in this matter----it takes two to create labour unrest. I’ve heard experts say Canada Post is taking a huge risk allowing this job action to happen. The customers they have, like me, are being forced to find alternatives to keep their businesses going. The longer the strike lasts, the greater the likelihood we won’t return to CP when it’s all over, especially if the alternative is close at hand. Most analysts recognize that, as is too often the case, rural and remote communities will be the hardest hit. Like the lines from a famous movie--I’m mad as hell and not going to take it anymore---from where I sit.
Nov. 29, 2005 edition of the Lamont Leader
High School tug-of-war
In these photos submitted by Yummi Currah, Lamont High took part in a tug-of-war during the lunch hour on November 18 organized by the Spirit Squad with the winning team getting a pizza lunch.
BY MELISSA MACINTOSH-YOUNG
First week of regular season has come to an end. Pre-season tiering is complete and this season’s games have been scheduled. Let the games begin!
U18 Wild played two weekend games resulting in a tie and a win. Their Friday night game, at a packed Lamont Arena, ended with a 5-5 tie against the CNN Spurs. Goals were scored by Gage Brenton 2g, Nicklas Mehlenbacher 1g and 1a, Avery Klassen 1g, Will Furey 1a and Xavier Storr with 1a. Their second game was an away game
against Wainwright. Wild were victorious with an 8-5 win. Will Furey had a hat trick and 1a, Rowan Young 2g and 1a, Logan Jesso 1g and 2a, Gage Brenton 2g, Cameron Olechow 2a, Matthew Iverson 2a and Xavier Storr 2a.
U13 Wild had one away game this weekend. They beat Drayton Valley with an impressive 9-2 win. Sawyer Hanson scored two hat tricks, Jonas Wytrykush 2g, Tyson Jonker 2a, Mary Sobkow 1g, Desiree Storr 1a, Denton Holowach 1a, Christian McLeod 1a and Nash Klassen 1a.
U11 Wild had two
Parcel #1 - Consisting of the SE 36-53-18 W4M Being 160 Acres M/L
Pasture Land Fence with Page Wire, Single Strand Barb Wire & A Dug Out.
Located North of Hwy #16 on Rge Rd 180 for 5 Kms. West Side of the Road
home games this weekend, resulting in two wins! Saturday’s game was an 11-8 win over the Jasper Bears. Wyatt Klita had 2g and 1a, Ryder Dagg 1g and 1a, Dylan Strumelak 1g and 1a, Easton Yarosh 1g and 1a, Ellie Poirier 1g and 1a, Sawyer Wytrykuch 1g, Colbin King 1g, Hunter Kobylka 1a, Jaxton Fertuck 1a and a hat trick
scored by Jaxon Calder. Their second game was a 4-0 shut out against Thorhild Titans. Goals were scored by Braden Roy 1g and 1a, Ryder Dagg 2a, Brody Dowhaniuk 1g, Sawyer Wytrykush 1g, Ellie Poirier 1g and Jaxon Calder 1a.
This week’s “Player of the Week Shout Out” goes out to all the minor hockey Coaches and
Team Managers, who literally volunteer hundreds of hours over the season. Without them,
there is no minor hockey. Tune in next week for another edition of Between the Boards.
Parcel #2 - Consisting of the NW 7-55-17 W4M Being 148.95 Acres M/L
Currently Seeded to Alfalfa, New 4 Strand Barb Wire Fence Around the Perimeter of the Property. Beautiful Mostly Open Quarter that does have a Subdivision out the NW Corner, a Good Shelter Belt, Ample Wildlife, Does Have a Few Sloughs That Would Work as a Water Sources, on the SE Corner of TWP Rd 552 & Rge Rd 180
Located 8.7 Kms North of Hwy #15, 20 Kms North of Hwy #16, East Side of the Road.
Real Estate Auction for Ducks Unlimited
Parcel #3 - Consisting of the SW 25-55-18 W4M Being 160 Acres M/L Seeded to Alfalfa/Grass, Can be Hay/Pasture Land, Old Yard Site, One Flat Bottom Grainary, New 4 Strand Barb Wire. Located On the Corner of Rge Rd 181 & Hwy 29 with 1/2 a Mile of Hwy. Frontage
Parcel #4 - Consisting of the SE 35-55-18 W4M
Being 160 Acres M/L
A Very Nice Open Quarter with Dugouts, Brand New 4 Strand Barb Wire Fence, Seeded to Alfalfa/Grass, Excellent Hay or Pasture Land.
Located 1.7 Kms North of Hyw #29 on Rge Rd 181
Add your name with a Minimum $5 cash or food donation
Last year, we raised $1,885! With your help, we can get to that number again!
Lamont Leader; Kerry, Michelle, Brennan & Garrett Anderson; Crystal & Hunter; Sylvia & Family; Aileen; John Mather; Jana Semeniuk & Family; Al Harvey & Family; Chuck & Andrea Varga; Albert & Florence Stelmach; Julian, Joannie & Kaitlyn Lopushinksy; Ray Letawsky; Patrica & Lawrence Hryniw; Chipman Hotel Staff; Tyson, Tristan & Tatum Jonker; Lincoln, Aspen & Cohen Jonker, ; Christmas Angel; Pat & Terry Oleksyn; Erich & Rosena Frobel; Ed & Donna Kucheraway & Family; Jack Kucherawy; Gerry & Carol Palichuk; Johnny & Wendie; Grant & Hazel Hackett; Anonymous; Richard & Sharon Johnston; John & Doreen Homeniuk; In Memory of Daniel, John & Jonathan Patan & Thomas Kowal; Steve & Stella Stodola; Bob & Brenda Melnyk; Barb Tessier, Robert & Debbie Tessier; Laurie & Julian Woldanski; Mashal & Zeni Maydanski; Anonymous; The Little Things - Deanna Ruether; Zennia Trollope; In Loving Memory of Louise Moren; Dave Fedun; Oscar OS Pederson; Oscar BJ Pederson; $7000!!
We don’t keep a dime. All money goes to the cause! a the
BY MELISSA MACINTOSH-YOUNG
The Lamont High School girls’ volleyball team won gold over the weekend in the N.E.
Zones at Elk Point. They will compete this week in Wainwright at the 2A ASAA Provincials.
The team will need to raise approximately $5,000 to cover their expenses. Anyone want-
ing to “Adopt-A-Laker for Provincials” can make a donation by contacting Coach Fossum.
Unreserved Real Estate Sale for Garth & Darlene Fleming Sale Starts December 6th & Closes on December 9th, 2024 Holden, Alberta
Directions: From Hwy 14 Go 3 1/2 Miles South On Rg Rd 163, West 1/2 Miles to Corner of Twp Rd 490 & Rg Rd 164
Selling A Beautiful Half Section Of Mixed Farm Land Located Just South of Holden Parcel #1 - Consisting Of the NW-33-48-16-W4M - Being 160 Acres
M/L - Beautiful, Mostly Open Land Currently Having 63 Acres Cultivated, 97 Acres being Pasture Land & Few Trees with a Creek Running Through The North East Corner. Surface Lease Road & Lease Site That Currently Has A Yearly Revenue of $3600.00/Year. With Some Work There Is An Opportunity For Many Of the Pasture Acres To Become Cultivated.
Parcel # 2 - Consisting Of The SW-33-48-16-W4M - Being 160 Acres M/L - Beautiful, Mostly Open land, Currently Having 50 Acres Cultivated, 110 Acres Being Pasture Land & A Few Trees, Dug Out, Also A Former Yard Site. Quarter Is Fenced & Cross Fenced, With Some Work There Is An Opportunity For Many Of The Pasture Acres to Become Cultivated.
Essential government mail can still be picked up during mail strike
Starting Tuesday, Nov. 19, the Province says mail can be accepted from Albertans at designated Alberta government offices across the province to ensure it reaches the proper destination.
This is in response to the Canada Post strike disallowing mail service across the county.
According to a government release, Albertans who receive mail from the Provincial Government will receive
a notification by email or phone indicating where and when they can pickup/drop-off their mail.
At press time, local and nearby relevant locations are listed as follows on the government website. These are sub-
ject to change and new locations may be added: In Lamont at the AFSC building (5014 - 50 Ave.); in Tofield at the Provincial building (5024 - 51 Ave.); in Vegreville at the Haverhill building (5121 - 49 St. E); in Fort
Saskatchewan at the Correctional Centre (7802 - 101 St.).
Alberta’s government will never ask for personal information over the phone or for anyone to click on a link in an email.
Non-critical mail will be held by the originating department until Canada Post mail service resumes. This service only applies to mail from the Alberta Government deemed essential.
Lamont County discusses media and public recording meetings
BY JOHN MATHER
At their Nov. 12 regular council meeting after much discussion, Lamont County council gave first reading to a new Council Procedure Bylaw which included several updates.
“At the RMA we attended a session on effective meetings and I just wanted to know if council wanted to put any of the suggestions from that meeting into this bylaw,” stated Reeve David Diduck.
Councillor Daniel Warawa said he wondered if council should adopt the change about allowing the Reeve to have a vote without relinquishing the chair of the meeting as is the case right now.
Legislature Services Officer Christiane Benoit told council it wouldn’t make much difference in how the reeve voted or
put forward motions right now. She added he could take part in discussions.
Diduck also had questions about how some things were presented at the meeting as information rather than just recording it.
“They suggested rather than just accepting the presentation it would be recorded in the meetings.”
Benoit said she already recorded the motions for accepting information in the minutes.
Diduck said if they had to act on the information they could make further resolutions, so he asked council if they should just continue as they do now and council agreed.
Councillor Neil Woitas asked if the media would still be allowed to record the
meetings. Unless otherwise permitted by the CAO or Reeve the use of recording devices by the Public in Council Chambers is prohibited.”
Benoit replied the media may record something during council meetings but because recording could be modified easily the public wasn’t allowed to record anything.
Woitas argued the media used their recording for accuracy and said they could watch the livestream of the meeting and record that so what was the difference whether they were in person at the meeting or not?
Benoit said media could record the meeting but it is the right of the County to record the meeting and others can listen to that recording.
Woitas said there had been many problems
with the sound during the livestreams and it wasn’t posted online immediately following the meeting, so he felt it should be allowed for others to record the meeting if they were present at the meeting.
Chief Administrative Officer Peter Tarnawsky wondered what Woitas was referring to and when the section was pointed out to him, he stated it was up to council on how they wanted to proceed.
“If he’s recording it, he’s not going to misquote anyone,” said Diduck. “I’m not sure if I agree with the public recording meetings but I would certainly give the media an exemption.”
Woitas said it should be the same for taking photos during the meetings.
Diduck also wondered if the section 122
on Information Technology was a new addition to the bylaw. It suggests no member shall engage in the use of social media, instant messaging or emailing during a meeting; cell phones cameras are not to be used during a meeting except on special approval by the chair; and cell phones will be placed on silent mode and messages can be checked during a council recess.
Benoit agreed this was a new addition.
Woitas stated the City of Edmonton councillors had their social media and texting going steadily during their meetings.
“For me personally, that's how the ratepayers get a hold of me,” he said. “I don’t answer calls during meetings.”
Diduck stated obviously taking pictures during meetings is not
permitted and “from my perspective we shouldn’t be instant messaging or emailing during a meeting.
“We have a duty to the public to give the meeting our full attention while it’s going on, so I don’t have any issues with the proposal here.,” he said.
Councillor Aaron Wick asked if they could make amendments following the first reading and he was told he could.
“You can make amendments prior to second and third reading,” said Diduck.
Both Wick and Woitas argued for adding a section in 141 that media be exempt from not recording meetings.
Council then gave first readings and the bylaw will be returned with amendments prior to second readings.
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CARD OF THANKS
On behalf of the Good as New Shop, we want to express our deep appreciation for everyone who makes the store happen. We are so grateful for our volunteers - who sort, sell, fix, clean, recycle, mow, shovel, load and haul, and so much more. And we couldn't serve our community without all the generous donors and of course our customers! Thank you, everyone.
The family of Craig Allan would like to thank family, friends and community members for their caring and support following Craig's death. The flowers, food, cards, visits, phone calls, thoughts and prayers were greatly appreciated. Thank you also for the donations in Craig's memory to the Tofield Library, Dolly Parton Imagination Program, and to the Food Bank. Special thanks to Weber Funeral Home and to Kevin and Lynn Langager. We commend the medical staff in Tofield, Camrose, Misericordia Hospital and the Intensive Care Unit at the University Hospital for their expertise, treatment, kindness and caring. We are grateful to all of you.
Jim and Yvonne Allan and Family
We would like to sincerely thank everyone for attending our 50th Anniversary. A special thanks for all the lowers and squares brought, making it a very memorable afternoon.
Jim & Fay Bronson
COMING EVENTS
The Lougheed Agricultural Society invites you to supper at 6 pm on December 2 at the Fieldhouse in appreciation for volunteering at our events, may your contribution be large or small it is greatly valued. Without volunteers the board would be unable to hold events. Please let us know if you can attend call 780-385-0752. Following at 7 pm we will be holding our Annual General Meeting, please stay if you wish to see our plans for 2025 and provide some insight to what you may like to see happen.
‘Twas the Night Before Christmas A Christmas Pagent & Concert at the Sedgewick SDA Church December 7 at 6 p.m. Luncheon to Follow Everyone Welcome 47c
COMING EVENTS
Killam/Forestburg Baptist Church Christmas Banquet
Sunday, December 8 at the Killam Community Hall
Doors open at 5 p.m. Supper at 5:30 p.m Concert at 6:30 p.m. with Daddy-Daughter roots duo Ben and Jessica Crane For tickets please call 780-385-3607
Adults $25, ages 12-17 years $20, under 12 years FREE
FIREARMS WANTED FOR OUR 2024 AUCTION PROGRAM: Rifles, Shotguns, Handguns, Antiques, Militaria, Collections, Estates, Single Items. For Auction, or Possible Purchase: Toll-Free 1-800-694-2609, Email Us at sales@switzersauction.com or Visit Us @ www.switzersauction.com.
Order of the Eastern Star Forestburg Chapter is hosting a Soup/Chilli Luncheon
Monday, November 25 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. at the Masonic Hall Basement in Forestburg. $10/Lunch
VIKING
HEALTH CENTRE AUXILIARY CHRISTMAS MARKET
Thursday, December 5 11 am to 5 pm
Viking Community Hall
Lunch available for purchase Great Christmas ideas, Crafts, Baking, Gifts, Décor & more To reserve table, call Kim 780-385-0902
Christmas is Coming!! Viking Grad Class of 2025 is selling Christmas Greenery Red or White 6.5" Poinsettia $13 24" Wreath $38 Outdoor Arrangement $50 Contact your local graduate for more information OR contact Donna at 780-385-4809 or Erin Hollar at 780-336-6377
Pick-up is scheduled for December 5 & 6th at the Viking Carena or discuss possible delivery with your seller Hurry! Selling until November 18!
Viking United Church Candlelight Service
December 1, 7:00 pm Donation to Christmas Hamper Program (toys, food, money) Coffee & Dessert following service Everyone Welcome
GALAHAD LIONS CLUB TURKEY BINGO
Monday Nov 25th
Galahad Agriplex 7:00 PM 15 Go-Go Bingos, 1 Bonanza, 1 Door Prize Master Card $5.00
FOR RENT
55+ adult bungalow in Belvedere Gardens with a single attached garage. Two bedrooms, in-floor heating, vaulted ceilings, open concept. Available December 1st, 2024. $1400/ month includes utilities, except power. 4527 55 Ave, Tofield, AB. Contact Dan 780970-7908
Large, non-smoking 2 Bedroom Apartment in Killam. Call Chuck 780-263-7290
2 Bedroom House For Rent Near Hardisty. Small older home 2 kms out of town. Includes fridge, stove, microwave, washer & dryer. Recent reno’s. Very reasonable rate for the right person or couple. Call or text (780) 699-3449 for details
HARDISTY: 2 BR furnished house for rent available now. $1200 plus electricity. Call or text 780-717-6783
FOR SALE
Christmas is Coming! Anybody in need of Christmas Lights, Brian has some for sale. They are mixed colours, some are flashing/blinkers. Will sell by length which would be $10 each. There are two strands that need bulb replacements. There is one that has a package with it. If interested, please call Brian at 780-678-0053.
Affordable, maintenance-free 12’x12’ deck with attached ramp and two steps. (Buyers responsibility to move - must be gone by the spring). Call Brian at 780-678-0053
If anybody is looking for Pepper Seeds in different varieties (mostly sweet), Brian has some. As well, if you are looking for Flower Pots, Hanging Baskets, or Window Boxes, Brian has many different sizes available. All Washed and Disinfected. Call 780-6780053
Single electric bed (head and feet adjustable). Like New. For more information call 780-385-2362
SEED FOR SALE
ALBERTA FEED GRAIN: Buying Oats, Barley, Wheat, Canola, Peas, Screenings, Mixed Grains. Dry, Wet, Heated, or Spring Thresh. Prompt Payment. In House Trucks, In House Excreta Cleaning. Vac Rental. 1-888483-8789
SERVICES
Roy's Handyman Services. Flooring, trim work, basement finishing, decks, fences, kitchen cabinet installs and carpentry work. Call 780-232-3097
Painting
Quality Residential and Commercial Interior Painting. Betty Tkaczyk 780-632-8749
CRIMINAL RECORD? Why suffer employment/licensing loss? Travel/business opportunities? Be embarrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US entry waiver. Record purge. File destruction. Free consultation. 1-800347-2540. www.accesslegalmjf.com.
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
PRIVATE MORTGAGE LENDER. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1-866405-1228; www.firstandsecondmortgages.ca.
Drywall Taping/Ceiling Texturing
40 years experience on the job, from commercial buildings to new homes to home renovations. No job too small. Experienced Killam drywall taper/texturer here to help you with any job, big or small. Don't want to do it yourself?Give me a call!
Flagstaff Taping & Texturing
Murray Cholowsky Call or text at 780-385-1251
Provincial alarms to be tested today
Nov. 20, 1:55 pm
BY JOHN MATHER
Alberta’s provincial alarm system will be tested today (Nov. 20) at 1:55 p.m.
Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services Mike Ellis said an Alberta Emergency Alert test will be issued across multiple channels including television, radio, wireless devices, websites, social media, the Alberta Emergency Alert mobile app and directly to compatible cell phones across the province.
These tests, which are typically conducted every May and November, added Ellis, help ensure the system works properly so Albertans can receive life-saving information during an actual emergency, including tornadoes, wildfires, floods and Amber Alerts.
“The test alert is also a great time for Albertans to talk to their family, friends and colleagues about emergency preparedness and to start making a plan,” he said.
Bruderheim wants photos of best decorated door
BY JOHN MATHER
With the Christmas season right around the corner Bruderheim is promoting a Deck the Door contest for all of the town residents.
Residents are invited to decorate their doors in unique and fun ways for the Christmas season.
Then they can take a picture of the door and along with their name and phone number email it to bruderheim.ca and then the town will post them all online for community wide voting.
No names will be associated with the door photos until winners are declared.
The doors must be decorated and entries submitted by Dec. 16.
There will be prizes for the best business door, and best residential door.
FEATURED PROPERTIES TOWN OF LAMONT
• 4712 51 St Lamont 5,800 sq ft shop with office and sales space. Shop was used for agricultural machinery repair. Price: $450,000
LAMONT COUNTY
Are
• W4-20-55-27-SE Plan 1023701 Block 1 Lot 1A Lamont County. 138.09 acres in the Lamont Heartland for industrial use. Located North of Highway 15 on Range Road 202. Price: $2,990,00
• HWY 834 between HWY 16 and TWP RD 530 Lamont County 19.48 acres with power and a holding tank. Nice building site. Price: $215,000.00
VILLAGE OF ANDREW
• 5317-50 Ave Andrew. An 18,000 sq. ft. manufacturing shop with office and storage space on 2.3 acres of land Price: $1,700,000
VILLAGE OF CHIPMAN
Do you want to work in a tight-knit rural community for an
If you possess leadership qualities, are full of energy, very well organized, a highly motivated individual, represent excellent communication skills, enthusiasm, and love helping customers and thrive on solving mechanical problems, WE NEED TO TALK!
We offer a clean, fun, safe, and warm environment to work in. Competitive pay plan. Benefits package. Apply by resume Attention Wes, in person at Campbell McLennan Chrysler in Killam or by fax 780-385-3803 or email wcampbell@cmchrysler.ca or Gerry Keyzer Service Manager at service@cmchrysler.ca
• P E N D I N G W4-18-54-29-NE N 54466 A RR184 Village of Chipman 38.75 acres 25± acres in hay. Double car garage, power, septic, and well nice building site. Price: $289,900
STRATHCONA COUNTY
• SW Part of NW–23 –53 –23 –W4 40.55 acres North of Highway 16 on Range Road 232 in proposed medium industrial zoning with CP rail line at the border of the property. Price: $7,200,000
• Parts of SW and SE-7-53-22-W4 located at Highway 21 and Lakeland drive 63.62 acres of development land with Highway 21 exposure. The property is within the Bremner and local Employment Area ACP with expected future use of industrial. Price: $5,100,000 THORHILD COUNTY
• NW 1/4 -14-58-22-W4 and NE ¼ -14-58-22-W4 Plan 172-0793 Block 3 Lot 222 acres game farm with page wire 100 acres could be cultivated. 4 mile North of Redwater. Good HWY 28 access. Price: $690,000
Lauren Hill Steven Hill
Norman Hill
The second oversized load got transported from Tofield’s Dacro Industries to the Shell Scotford Complex on Nov. 12. Here the load moved up Highway 834 north of Highway 14. It was the second oversized load moved to the site in the past month. A third vessel is scheduled to move on Nov. 25. Crystal Moren photo.
Recent huge vessel moves part of carbon capture project
BY JOHN MATHER
Three huge vessels that are being moved along local roads from Dacro Industries in Tofield to Shell Scotford’s plant site in northern Strathcona County are part of the Polaris carbon capture project.
The first vessel, a CO2 absorber column, was 234 long 25 feet wide and weighed an impressive 358 tonnes. It was moved Oct. 7.
The second vessel moved last Tuesday, Nov. 12. It was an amine stripper and was 145 feet long, 21 feet wide and weighed 173 tonnes.
The third vessel for the project will be moved Nov 25 and it will be a boiler amine absorber and quench.
The Atlas Carbon Storage Hub from Shell and ATCO EnPower intends to store CO2 emissions generated in the Alberta Industrial Heartland region. The first phase of Atlas will store CO2 emissions captured by Shell’s Polaris carbon capture project. CO2 emissions captured by Polaris will be sent to the Atlas Carbon Storage Hub via an approximately 22-kilometre pipeline to two storage wells located in
Strathcona County.
CO2 will be stored there approximately two kilometres underground in the Basal Cambrian Sands, the same formation used to successfully store CO2 from the Quest CCS facility currently operating at Shell Scotford.
On June 26, 2024, Shell announced the Final Investment Decision (FID) for Polaris, a carbon capture project at the Shell Energy and Chemicals Park, Scotford.
Polaris is designed to capture approximately 650,000 tonnes of CO2 annually from the Shell-
owned Scotford refinery and chemicals complex.
Polaris will have the potential to reduce Scope 1 CO2 emissions at Shell’s Scotford refinery by capturing and storing up to 40 per cent and by up to 22 per cent at the chemicals complex.
In addition to the Polaris FID, Shell also announced the final investment decision to proceed with the Atlas Carbon Storage Hub in partnership with ATCO EnPower.
Shell is a 50/50 partner with ATCO EnPower in the Atlas Carbon Storage Hub.
OPEN HOUSE
HIGHWAY
16 & HIGHWAY 15/855
Functional Planning Study
Alberta Transportation has retained McElhanney Ltd. to complete a functional planning study for the ultimate interchange configuration of Highway 16 and Highway 15/855near the Town of Mundare.
You are invited toview preliminary concepts and provide input onthe planning study at an open house on:
December 4, 2024 4 - 7 p.m.
Mundare Recreation Centre 5116– 50Avenue Mundare, Alberta
McElhanney representatives will be in attendance tooutline the project and answer questions.
For more information on the planning study, pleasecontact Ryan Betker at McElhanney Ltd. at (780) 809-3299or emailrbetker@mcelhanney.com
COUNCIL UPDATE – October 29 & November 12 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.
October 29 Regular Council and Annual Organizational meeting (minutes were approved November 12).
Highlights from this meeting include:
Appointment of Reeve and Deputy Reeve (Organizational Meeting)
Council appointed its Reeve and Deputy Reeve for 2024-25 (carried 5-0).
Congratulations to Reeve David Diduck and Deputy Reeve Daniel Warawa. In the Org. Meeting, Council also designated its Council Meeting schedule and its Board, Commission and Committee assignments for 2024-25. See the news release at lamontcounty.ca/news for additional updates.
STIP Program Submission – Eight Bridges
Council approved submission of eight projects nearing the end of useful life) - Bridge Files: 74671, 74805, 75697, 70982, 75219, 75747, 75221, and 74917.
Alberta Invasive Species Council Sponsorship
Council approved Bronze Sponsorship ($1,000) to the Alberta Invasive Species Council to continue its important work and campaigns such as Squeal on Pigs, Invasive and Noxious Weeds, and invasive species resources.
Council Business
Land Use Bylaw, and its Tax Penalty Bylaw (884.24) to revise payment deadline for June/December dates that fall on a Statutory Holiday or weekend.
- Council defeated a request related to Andrew Willingdon St. Michael Rural Crime Watch Association to be added as an additionally Named Insured party to Lamont County policy.
- In Committee of the Whole (COTW), discussed its Fire Billing Bylaw, amendments to the Centennial Scholarship Program, and renewed procedures for Business Licenses and inclusion in the Lamont County Business Directory (at lamontcountynow.ca).
legislation and review of a proposed bylaw to govern the election process.
updates for HWY15 at RR202.
Fieldman.
November 12 Council meeting (minutes are approved next Council meeting).
Highlights from this meeting include:
Business Directory Policy (4300)
Council reviewed and approved the procedure for its published business directory (at lamontcountynow.ca), including eligibility and encouraging all interested businesses to submit application to be added to the digital list and promote economic opportunities and business within Lamont County..
Centennial Scholarship Amendments
Council reviewed and approved revisions to Policy 3120 and the Centennial end of June, annually) and awarding procedure (awarding the full amount as applicable to one or two applicants).
Council Business
-Council reviewed and approved operational objectives and requirements for from Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation.
-Council discussed a Livestock at Large issue and directed Administration to meeting.
-In Committee of the Whole (COTW), discussed its Fire Billing Bylaw, directing Administration to bring discussed amendments to the revised Bylaw to a future ---
The 2025 Budget Committee also took place in Council Chambers between November 14-18. These discussions form presented and approved by Council at a future Council Meeting. A full summary of the approved budget and initiatives for 2025 will be posted at lamontcounty.ca/news when this is
Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, November 20, 2024
Community Services: Serving Lamont County, Lamont, Bruderheim, Mundare, Andrew & Chipman
(VISIT: lamontcounty.ca/community-programming for full posters and locations, or call 780-895-2233 for info./registration). Current CALC, FCSS & KFRN and seniors activities:
1. Youth Centres in Bruderheim (Tuesdays), Chipman (Mondays), and Mundare (Thursdays) – contact Dayna.J@lamontcounty.ca for more info.
2. Parents and Tots: Bruderheim (Thursdays from 10-11 a.m. at Karol Maschmeyer Arena) and Mundare (Tuesdays from 9:15-10:15 a.m. at the Mundare Admin. Building) - contact Melissa.S@lamontcounty.ca for more info. (Note: programs follow the school calendar.)
3. Youth Coalition: contact Erin.B@lamontcounty.ca for more info.
4. Meals in Motion: NOVEMBER Menu. Order via Chrissy at 780-975-9592.
5. KFRN: Family Activity Night (Lamont): Nov. 20, 5:30-7 p.m. (no reg. nec.).
6. CALC: My Journey…Who Am I? (register at 780-895-2233 x233/241 or Cheryl.B@lamontcounty.ca | Cody.O@lamontcounty.ca)
7. CALC: English Language Learning (register with Cheryl/Cody).
8. CALC: Kitchens Program (register with Cheryl/Cody).
9. CALC: Digital Skills for Seniors: Thurs. fr.10-11 a.m. (Mundare & Andrew).
10. Snow Angels Program (volunteers needed):Michelle.A@lamontcounty.ca or 780-895-2233x223, (honorarium for volunteers).
11. Fitness Fun for Older Adults: $10 per session. At Mundare Seniors Centre. Contact Michelle.A@lamontcounty.ca for information.
12. Yoga for Older Adults: $12 per session. At Lamont Arena Mtg. Room. Contact Michelle.A@lamontcounty.ca for information.
13. Lamont Light Up! 2024 – Join us on November 30, 2:30-4:30 p.m., at the Lamont County Admin. Building, for paper crafting. We will be making Christmas cards and gift tags. No registration req.
14. Seniors’ Coffee: (Wed.) 10-11 a.m. at Andrew Lions Club, & (Thurs.) 10-11 a.m. at Mundare Seniors Centre. Join FCSS for coffee, conversation, snacks, and assistance with senior-related forms and programming. FCSS also offers Seniors Supports from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Mundare (Thursdays) - michelle.a@lamontcounty.ca
15. Seniors Bus trips: $15 per person per round trip. November 21 and December 12. Call Helen at 780-895-7539 to reserve a spot (departs from Lamont Rec. Centre).
Did you know Lamont County has a Business Directory for local businesses. Do you have a business within Lamont County and would like to be included in the digital directory, complete your free application at lamontcountynow.ca/business-directory. Businesses are added once approved. If you have any questions, contact Economic Development at 780-895-2233. There is also an option for voluntary annual business licenses. A further reminder to support local economy by shopping local this holiday season and year-round.
Farmers typically don’t seek out help when struggling with their mental health. Help is available! You:
- may feel like you can handle any situation on your own, including emotional distress or personal struggles.
- may be worried that mental health professionals would not understand your needs due to the nature of your work as farmers (lack of Ag Culture competency).
- may be production-focused and don’t recognize the impact prioritizing mental health can have on your farm & family.
This is an Alberta approach to farm mental health: Visit agknow.ca/ (part of the Alberta Farm Mental Health Network resources to support those in need).
Tax Installment Payment Plan Reminder: Lamont County offers taxpayers the ability to pay property taxes in monthly installments by pre-authorized withdrawals rather than one single payment. Sign up before December 31.
Please NOTE: All flag purchases or signup for Medically Fragile or Seniors service (for private snow removal), must be completed at the Public Works/Ag Services Building - 553004A Hwy 831 (and not at the Administration Building). Please complete this before the first major snowfall.
ASB Annual Photo Contest – submit your favourite photos to lamontcounty.ca/ photo-contest before Nov. 22. Win a prize! Sign up for regional (emergency) notifications by email/text/phone: lamontcounty.ca/alerts (Everbridge alerts/not the AB Emergency Alert system that interrupts your phone; rather, it is updates for local events/activities such as traffic/water/fire incidents, etc.).
The next scheduled ASB meeting is (Wednesday) December 11, starting at 9:00 a.m. The public is welcome to attend at the Lamont County Administration Building or virtually through Microsoft Teams (link): lamontcounty.ca/departments/agricultural-services/agendas-minutes-asb. Next Lamont County Council (Regular Council Meeting)
The next Regular Council Meeting is planned for Tuesday, November 26, starting at 9:00 a.m. The public is welcome to attend at the Lamont County Admin. Building or virtually through Microsoft Teams (link). A link to meetings, agendas and minutes can be found at: lamontcounty.ca/governance/agendas-minutes.
Please Note – inFocus is also available for viewing online at: www.lamontcounty.ca/communications (for those wanting to view the weekly submission as fullsized PDF and to access hyperlinks)
