Council Highlights - August 14, 2025

Audit Report

Cheri Peterson from Meyers Norris Penny presented the findings of the audit of the Village of Berwyn’s Financial Statements for the 2024 fiscal year. Cheri shared thorough information with Council, answered questions, and thanked the Village of Berwyn staff for their support throughout the audit.

Grant Application for Bike Park

Council reviewed information and a recommendation from CAO Jatin Saini regarding the Alberta Blue Cross Built Together Grant. Council approved proceeding with an application for a bike park and directed administration to obtain contractor quotes for the grant application. The Built Together grant provides $50,000 in funding for approved projects that foster active living.

Mainstreet Revitalization Project

Council reviewed correspondence from Dan Williams, Alberta Minister of Municipal Affairs, indicating that the Village of Berwyn was selected for the 2025 Minister’s Award for Municipal and Public Library Excellence for the Mainstreet Revitalization Project. Minister Williams congratulated the Village on this achievement and commended Council and staff for their work on the project, enhancing the appeal of the Village’s core commercial area.

Letter from Municipal Affairs Regarding Ministerial Order

Council reviewed correspondence from the Deputy Minister of Municipal Affairs confirming that the Village of Berwyn’s 2025 Action Plan and 10-year Capital Plan update satisfy the requirements set out under Ministerial Order No. MSL:056/18. The letter commended the Village for revisiting recommendations from the viability review report, taking further action where appropriate, and developing sustainable long-term capital plans, reflecting Council’s dedication to the community and long-term sustainability of the Village.

RCMP 2025 First Quarter Report

Council reviewed the 2025 first quarter RCMP report for the Peace Regional Detachment. Overall, Criminal Code offences declined compared to the same quarter last year, with fewer break-and-enters and motor vehicle thefts. Highlights included successful drug trafficking investigations, increased community engagement through events and school programs, and enhanced traffic enforcement focused on impaired driving.

Harvest Moon Festival

Council reviewed a letter of request for the Village of Berwyn to participate in the Harvest Moon Festival by supporting the Chalk Zone children’s activity area. Council approved to provide a tent and chalk for the event. The Harvest Moon Festival takes place in Grimshaw on September 13-14, 2025.

Land Use Bylaw Amendment 725

Council approved first reading of Bylaw 725, a proposed amendment to the Village of Berwyn Land Use Bylaw to create a Direct Control District and rezone Lot 13 Block 4 Plan 1090CL from General Residential to Direct Control. A Public Hearing will be held on September 11, 2025, at 5:30 pm.

Non-residential Tax Incentive Bylaw 687

Council directed administration to amend the Non-residential Tax Incentive Bylaw 687 and bring it to the September 11, 2025, Council Meeting for review and discussion.