Council Highlights - Sept 11, 2025

Presentation from New Business Owner Council heard a presentation from Hilda de Jong, new owner of the Trinity Repair Building, on the non-profit Fuel-Up Community Access Centre, which provides work opportunities for adults with disabilities and mentorship for youth. She inquired about a property tax exemption, Village support in promotion, signage, and sidewalk repairs. Council welcomed her to the community, thanked her for sharing information about the initiative, and directed Administration to look into her requests.

Community Garden Request 

Council reviewed a request from the Community Garden Society for Public Works assistance at the community gardens. Due to the small size of the Public Works team and competing priorities, Council recommended that Administration advise the Community Garden Society to use its existing funds to hire a third party to complete the additional work required. Main Street Revitalization Project – Award Certificate

Council acknowledged receipt of a commemorative award and certificate from Rick McIver, Alberta’s Minister of Transportation, recognizing the Village of Berwyn for receiving the 2025 Minister’s Award for Municipal and Public Library Excellence for the Main Street Revitalization Project.

Advance Voting for 2025 Municipal Election

Council approved that advance voting for the 2025 municipal election take place at the Village Office from October 14–17, 2025, between 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. and again from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Administration will post a public notice and implement all required procedures in accordance with the Local Authorities Election Act. Information on the elections can be found on the Village of Berwyn website at berwyn.ca. Speed Control Discussion Council reviewed a letter from a resident suggesting a speed limit reduction in the Village and discussed options to calm traffic and address speeding concerns. Council noted the need to make changes due to resident concerns and complaints about the existing speed bumps. Options considered included additional signage and replacing the bumps with speed humps, which are less costly. Council also noted that sponsorship offers have already been made to help cover the cost of new speed humps, and Administration is obtaining quotes to bring back for Council’s consideration.

Harvest Moon Festival Participation Council discussed the volunteer schedule for the Chalk Zone children’s activity area, which is sponsored by the Village of Berwyn. Two council members will be on hand to volunteer at the activity area. The festival takes place in Grimshaw on September 13–14, 2025. Community Donation Council approved a $250 donation to support the RISK (Reduce, Injury with Student Knowledge) Program, a collaborative initiative with RCMP, Alberta Health Services, Victim Services, and partner agencies. The program provides Grade 10 students with education on safe decision-making, including the risks of distracted and impaired driving.

Land Use Bylaw Amendment 725 Council held a Public Hearing regarding Bylaw 725, amending the Land Use Bylaw to create a Direct Control District and rezone Lot 13, Block 4, Plan 1090CL from General Residential to Direct Control. One written submission was received and reviewed. Council then gave second and third readings, and the bylaw was approved.

Non-residential Tax Incentive Bylaw 687A Council approved Bylaw 687A, amending the Village of Berwyn Non-Residential Tax Incentive Bylaw. The amendments introduce a phased five-year tax exemption schedule, clarify eligibility and application requirements, and strengthen compliance provisions, including transferability, clawback clauses, and limits on total exemption periods.