September 3 Lamont Leader

Charity Car Show raises thousands for local business family

BY JANA SEMENIUK

The atmosphere was nothing short of festive on Bruderheim’s Queen Street Aug. 30, as 140 classic cars lined the road while music played and the huge crowd took-in all there was to offer.

Both potato and macaroni salad, donated by Ironwood Catering, was served along with Bratwurst and sauerkraut, donated by Old Country Sausage, and hot dogs cooked up by volunteers.

At the other end of the street, ice cream and other cool treats were being dished out, offering some relief to the above 30 C sunny weather.

In between, a special donation tent was set up to collect funds for a family hit by tragedy.

The Charity Car Show was organized in only two weeks by local residents Luis and Allison Diaz with help from Chipman Car Crafter’s President Dave Gray.

Original organizer, Bruderheim resident Ryan McIvor, was forced to hand over organizing the event to his friends after he was called away to work at his new job out of town.

The fundraiser was in support of the Hotte family, owners of the local classic car restoration business Strong’s Garage in Bruderheim, who suffered a major blow last month.

Matt and Cassie Hotte watched their fourth child, a newborn daughter,

Ida, fight for her life in the U of A hospital ICU when she stopped breathing soon after her July 22 birth.

Once Ida recovered and was released from hospital Aug. 3, Matt Hotte was nearly killed in a head-on collision Aug. 8 near his home. The crash destroyed his 1966 Ford F100 truck, ripping the cab from the body and ejecting Hotte from the vehicle.

Hotte said he can’t believe he’s still alive.

“I can’t figure out how I survived,” he said after seeing what remained of his truck.

“The truck is finished. We had our first date in that truck (and) I brought Ida home from the hospital in that truck. But I’d rather give up the truck than my life.”

Hotte said he was having a good day as he slowly hobbled around the car show in his new walker. He said despite the tragic circumstances he feels lucky.

“My wife is a big part of the reason I survived. She was at the hospital helping me, just like the staff and my neighbour and his daughter who was a nurse that found me. Everything just went right,” he said. “I’m fortunate to be without any serious health issues. I have a broken pelvis, new hip and all that but no broken back.”

Hotte said in another six weeks he will be able to put weight on the right side of his body where his new hip

resides. He also said he hopes to participate in next year’s Model T races which were cancelled this year in light of his accident.

In terms of the enormous outpouring of community support, Hotte was amazed.

“It’s been unbelievable,” he said, as the sole breadwinner for his family of six. “All of these people I’ve met my whole life and some people I’ve never met. It goes to show you that you can touch people in a different way no matter what. That’s why you can’t be a weenie.”

Hotte slowly made his way down the street to where Dave Gray was making announcements on a PA system. The crowd burst into applause as Hotte smiled and took the microphone.

“It wasn’t so much the old truck’s fault, but driver negligence, not on my side,” Hotte told the crowd. “I’ve got to thank my wife and kids. They’ve been strong through this and it’s been definitely life changing. But I’m on the mend and I appreciate everybody coming out today.”

Hotte’s business partner and fellow mechanic, Jim Koladich, said the community support has been incredible and expressed his gratitude.

“We're just amazed by the outpouring support from the community here. It's been mind boggling. One little bit from people mowing their lawn, looking after the kids, and it's just amazing

to see community still exists and thrives when times get tough,” he said. Gray said, in a later interview, that he was very happy with the turn out and said the event was very successful.

“It was a super success with such short notice. The team came together and made it shine,” he said.

Meanwhile, organizer Allison Diaz created two gift baskets, with donated items from local businesses, which were awarded to the top two classic car participants; first prize went to Thor Knapp, who brought his 1931 Model A Roadster, and second prize went to Robb Dyck with his red 1965 Chev Impala.

While a total donation amount for the Hotte family was not available, Diaz said at least $2,000 was raised. An online fundraiser, which began soon after Hotte’s accident, also raised over $145,000. More photos Page 2

Bruderheim Charity Car Show

Continued from Front Page

TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to the Municipal Government Act, R.S.A. 2000, and amendments thereto, the Council of the Village of Chipman, in the Province of Alberta, intends to hold a public hearing at 6:30 PM on Monday, September 8, 2015 in the Village of Chipman Council Chambers, to amend the current Land Use Bylaw to rezone a portion of Highway Commercial District (C-3) north of 50th Avenue to General Commercial District (C-2) and to rezone the south portion of Lots 1 and 2, Block 11, Plan 4802CL including the southerly portion of Block 20, Plan 4802CL from Single Family Residential District (R-1) to General Commercial District (C-2) as shown on the accompanying map.

Any person wishing to be heard may make oral or written representation to the Council at that time. Oral submissions may be limited to five minutes in length whether or not a written presentation is submitted. A copy of the proposed Bylaw may be inspected during regular office hours at the Village Administration Office in the Village of Chipman, Alberta.

Take notice that anyone wishing to make a presentation regarding the proposed bylaw should contact the CAO no later than 4:00 p.m. on the 4th day of September, 2025. Both written and/or verbal presentation may be given at the Public Hearing.

Council, after considering the representations made to it concerning the proposed bylaws may make such amendments or changes as it considers necessary to the proposed bylaws, if any, and proceed to pass or defeat the proposed bylaws.

The Public Hearing will be held: Date: Monday, September 8, 2025

Time: 6:30 PM

Location: Village of Chipman Council chambers Chipman, AB

For additional information please contact: PAT TOMKOW

VILLAGE OF CHIPMAN (t) 780.363.3982

4816 50 STREET (e) chipmanab@mcsnet.ca

CHIPMAN AB T0B 0W0

Dated in Chipman, in the Province of Alberta, this 7 day of August 2025.

Town of Lamont knocking it out of the park with new name for annual event

BY JANA SEMENIUK

The Town of Lamont’s annual Picnic in the Park is sporting a new name this year, thanks to a larger list of activities for the yearly event, including fireworks, bouncy castles and a puppet performance by renowned indigenous puppeteer DeRic Starlight.

Lamont Chief

Administrative Officer Tyler Edworthy unveiled the event’s new name, Party in the Park, at the Town’s Aug. 26 council meeting. The event is scheduled for Sept. 5 at Hillside Park starting at 5 p.m.

Lamont’s Community Development Coordinator, Dave Taylor, further explained the changes

and gave council some history and additional information on plans for the event.

“Picnic in the Park has traditionally been a very informal, low key community event, a chance to say hi your neighbours and celebrate our community,” said Taylor, adding the event will still honour centenarian

Thieves target Post Office and vehicle in Bruderheim

BY JANA SEMENIUK

A truck, with an attached trailer holding a classic car inside, was damaged during an attempted theft on Aug. 30 while the Bruderheim Post Office endured a break-in during the same time frame.

The post office breakin marks the third suffered by the facility within the past four years.

First, at 5:56 a.m., police were notified of an attempted vehicle theft.

The truck belonged to Chipman Car Crafters President Dave Gray who also had his classic 1937 Chevrolet parked inside the attached

enclosed trailer. Gray parked the vehicle and trailer in Bruderheim the night before to help with the town’s Charity Car Show scheduled for later that morning.

“It was a stupid move on my part to leave it down there like that. I don’t know what I was thinking,” said Gray.

“They (thieves must have been) interrupted doing my truck. They were close to having it done.”

Gray said he was thankful his classic car, worth $100,000, remained untouched inside the enclosed trailer. RCMP Cpl. Troy Savinkoff confirmed

A note is taped to the Bruderheim Post Office door on Aug. 30 notifying customers of closure until Sept. 2

damages to the truck’s door handle and steering wheel which Gray said he was able to fix himself.

Meanwhile, at 8:58 a.m., RCMP received another report that the town’s post office had also been targeted.

“On Aug. 30 at 8:58 Fort Saskatchewan RCMP received a report that about 20 mail boxes had been pried open at the Bruderheim Post Office,” said RCMP Cpl. Troy Savinkoff.

“Confirmed mail was stolen however unknown how much at this time.”

Savinkoff said that so far no suspects have been identified and it’s unknown if the two incidents are related. He said the investigation is ongoing.

The Bruderheim Canada Post outlet was previously vandalised with mail stolen on Jan. 23 and Mar. 4, 2022.

An email to Canada Post was not responded to by press time.

residents and award beautiful yards, but also include many exciting new additions.

Taylor said the Lamont Fish and Game will be doing a bird house building workshop, in addition to FCSS (Family and Community Support Services) hosting games for kids.

“As well the Friends of Lamont Fire Fighting Society will have their mascot Sparky there and some cotton candy.

“The Town has (also) partnered with some companies to bring in bouncy castles, face painting, and snow cones. The churches will provide ice cream treats and popcorn, and will be providing hot dogs and pop and water and the entertainment,” said Taylor.

In terms of entertainment, Taylor said the event will feature DeRic Starlight, puppeteer who also performed at the town’s Summer Fest in 2024. Starlight has been a

professional puppeteer for the past 28 years and worked on the Fraggle Rock reboot.

“Once (DeRic) wraps up, we will have some fireworks, so lots of collaboration and some really good sponsorship,” said Taylor,

adding the Party in the Park will also be an opportunity to officially launch the town’s new disc golf course set up in Hillside Park. Taylor confirmed the Party in the Park events are free for attendees.

Starlight is scheduled to perform at the town's newly named Party in the Park (formerly Picnic in the Park) on Sept. 5. Photo:

Opinion

Positive announcements on paper, will they lead to action?

BY JOHN MATHER

During the election, Prime Minister Mark Carney promised the Liberals would announce a new bill to ease provincial trade barriers and detail how nation building projects would be identified and approved faster than under the Trudeau regime, which was essentially never.

The bill passed in parliament in late June is supposed to speed-up a major project by up to 60 per cent.

Under the bill the Libs promised to open a Major Projects Office and invited the premiers of the provinces and territories to submit projects they felt should have a high priority and would enhance not only their respective provincial economies but the whole of Canada.

Well, in a surprising political move, last week Carney sort of kept that promise.

He announced the Major Projects Office and installed former Trans Mountain CEO Dawn Ferrell to head it up.

She brings more than 39 years of experience in the energy industry.

In addition, he plunked it down in Calgary, not exactly known as a Liberal stronghold.

So what’s going on here? Is Carney really a Liberal?

Well that remains to be seen, but his recent moves could have positive benefits for Alberta.

He also announced the federal government will spend half a trillion dollars on infrastructure projects, ranging from energy to ports to intelligence.

“A number of those investments, the first of which we will be formally announcing in the next two weeks, are with respect to new port infrastructure,” Carney said in Germany, where he met with Chancellor Friedrich Merz and announced an agreement with the European country on critical minerals and energy.

One of the beneficiaries of the announcement could be the Port of Churchill, Manitoba

Carney's remarks came days following an announcement that talks were set to get underway to explore a sustainable, year-round shipping season at Churchill, following an agreement between the port's ownership group and a Montreal-based dry bulk shipping company.

Canada-U.S. trade tensions sparked renewed interest in the Port of Churchill earlier this year, with Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew saying it could be a good option to boost trade with Europe, and expansion could fit with the federal government's plan for nation-building infrastructure.

CONTINUED

But Alberta has advocated for a pipeline to the Hudson Bay port for some time and it certainly would be a viable option to B.C. ports where government regulations and a hostile B.C. provincial government make getting energy to the Pacific rim difficult.

Now the Port of Churchill would also be a short access point for shipping precious earth minerals mined from Ontario’s Ring of Fire region. It has been under development for several years, but trade tensions with both China and the U.S, has sped up provincial approvals for future development.

Alberta and Saskatchewan are both excited for the prospect of Churchill getting redeveloped but with last week’s announcement Manitoba’s NDP premier Wab Kinew is also on board.

“We have this amazing opportunity to build-up an existing port, an existing asset, something that's already shipping critical minerals to international markets this year, but really to take it to the next level,” Kinew said, adding that more infrastructure is needed to hit what he described as that “next level of economic opportunity.”

Kinew said addressing any environmental concerns linked to the project will mean making sure perspectives of Indigenous leaders are taken into account and making the right investments in infrastructure.

Now of course when there is any sort of announcement to better the Canadian economy and create new trade partners world-wide

the doomsayers come out of the woodwork to decry the idea.

The Climate Action Team Manitoba said back in July that “it’s an idea that just won’t go away.”

In a report the organization listed, it claimed Hudson Bay can’t compete with southern ice-free ports; fossil fuels are becoming an extremely risky industry to invest in; the Arctic Trade corridor would require huge public subsidies; environmental risks and impacts could be substantial; provincial revenue and employment would be minimal; and climate structure funding is a far better job creator that resources exports.

Well in reading through the organization’s support for these claims, one can quickly find an equal amount of support to oppose them.

If the climate is warming as greatly as some state, then development of our arctic north has to take place.

Our border extends up there and the Russians have widely developed their northern arctic region and allowed the Chinese to have access to those as trade routes.

The U.S. also patrols the Canadian north via submarines and Canada does have some ice breakers traversing the northern passage.

The ideas have been pitched by Carney’s government. They have received positive reactions from the provinces.

Now it’s up to other groups and organizations to get on board for the sake of the future Canadian economy.

And Carney has to translate the talk into action.

BY HAZEL ANAKA

This wasn’t the typical long weekend for us. I left for Calgary early Thursday morning with Hilary and Ash in his new Tesla, Rosie. As much as I dislike Elon Musk, I can’t help but admit that this car is quite phenomenal and just the right purchase for some people. It would be a foolhardy first choice vehicle for people like us in rural Alberta. The lack of charging stations, the gravel roads, and winter driving would be a trifecta of potential problems. He bought it several months ago when other Tesla owners in the world were vandalizing dealerships, trying to cover the decal or offloading their cars at a loss. Rosie, did surpris-

FROM WHERE I SIT: Small Part

ingly well getting us around the city. She can be forgiven the couple booboos she made. Ninety-five percent of the time the car was being driven hands-free both highway and within the city.

Roy ended up coming a day later in an oldfashioned gas engine Venza. His Thursday was spent with a John Deere mechanic doing a service call on one of the combines. We were all gathering in Calgary because our just sixteen—year-old grandson was at the Calgary Hitmen training camp. He is ‘protected’ by the team. The family arrived a couple days earlier for orientation and fitness assessment. We barely recognized him because he’s grown three inches and gained ten pounds in the last year. No Anaka has ever hit the six-foot mark before.

We were all staying at a downtown Marriott which ended up being a real treat. Unfortunately, it was twenty minutes away from the Tsuut’ina 7 Chiefs Arena rather than at the Saddledome.

Our room on the 30th floor was setup like a suite with table and chairs, kitchenette, and lounging furniture. I’ve never stayed in a room that high before. It was a bit disconcerting how the elevator cars wobbled in their shafts the higher we rose. Each room had a sound machine to increase sleeping comfort. Only later did we realize the train literally passed beside the hotel. I found the roar of stunting cars and overly-loud motorcycles far more disturbing and slept like a baby despite all. Perhaps, best of all was the included breakfast. The space covered the entire third floor and offered all the food one could desire including ethnic dishes I’ve never heard of. Opposite the hot oatmeal was a container of chicken congee. Naturally, I asked a guy filling his bowl and garnishing it with green onions. The only thing lacking was an omelette station. Some mornings it was a scramble to snag a table but an outdoor patio offered overflow seating. Grady was

Lamont and Area

LAMONT UNITED CHURCH 5306 - 51 Ave., Lamont, AB 780-895-2145 Rev. Deborah Brill

able to get a huge protein boost with the hot breakfast options.

The nice part about being downtown is the walkability to restaurants. The weather was not unbearably hot and the distance to finer dining just blocks away. It is an eye-opener when the kid at the table can outeat any of the adults.

The arena itself was great. Luckily, it wasn’t hard to transition from 28 degrees outside to arena climate. Most people wore shorts in the stands. All of us can remember arenas where we froze our butts off. The one constant it is the stench of the hockey players and equipment. Sadly, we could smell the players before we saw them even though the hockey club laundered equipment every night. Our entire weekend revolved around watching hockey. Every additional chance he had to show off his skills was welcome news. Sunday’s Intrasquad game featured 3 regulation periods of twenty minutes, three officials, penalties, powerplays, penalty kills, and a

three-man, five-minute overtime period to settle the tied score. Prior games were two thirtyminute straight time periods. One player was concussed during a game so the potential for injury always exists.

It’s amazing how hockey has made the world so much smaller for players at the more advanced levels and how both players and their families follow each other’s progress and careers. Grady had the benefit of two meetings with the Hitmen GM and several of the scouts. The feedback was very positive.

I think we’ve already established that I’ll talk to anyone. So naturally I had to comment on the teeny-weeny baby in his mother’s arms in the row ahead of us in the bleachers. At nine days old, he was starting early as a rink rat. Before long, I learned that the maternal grandparents are a billet family of the Hitmen. They’ve got two players living with them this season and this is their fourth season doing it. Naturally, I picked their

brains and found it all fascinating. They are paid a monthly stipend by the team that’s intended to cover groceries. They are not responsible for getting the player/s to practices or games. If they don’t have a vehicle, another player is responsible for getting them where they need to be. In addition to feeding them, they are to provide a suitable moral environment for the player. I know many NHL players simply love the billet families that were such a vital part of their formative years.

I think it’s fair to say that a feeling of quiet excitement and barely concealed nerves permeates the entire place. Whether you’re a mustache-wearing 20-yearold whose time is almost up or one of the 15 or 16-year-olds hoping to get noticed, players and their parents speak in hushed tones. These are the experiences every boy playing shinny or street hockey dreams of. It was our pleasure to be a small part of such an exciting time, from where I sit.

AA Meetings Thursdays at 8:00 pm

Michael the Archangel, St. Michael 2nd, and 4th

olangels.ftsask@caedm.ca www.olafortsask.caedm.ca

Andrew one end point for drone delivery tests

BY JOHN MATHER

A new program supported by Alberta HUB and funded by grants will lay the groundwork for drones to be used in a variety of commercial operations in the Lamont County/Minburn area and other areas served by theAlberta HUB.

As part of the program, a drone “night test flight” will leave the Andrew Rural Academy Sept. 24, and land a short time later at the St. Paul Airport.

Alberta HUB obtained

a SCOP grant from the province in 2024 to develop the drone friendly ecosystem to enable advanced air mobility (AAM) activities such as beyond visual line of sight drone operations for dronebased delivery of goods, precision agriculture using drones and support infrastructure development for electric aviation.

This work is being completed through Alberta HUB member, AERIUM Analytics.

AERIUM is a full-service environmental consultant, drone manufacturer and drone service company with a proven track record in the implementation of drones into complex airspace, specifically, the integration of drones into airport environments.

This project will provide investment opportunities for our airports as well as for municipalities, First Nations and Metis Settlements across the region for drone manufacturing, technol-

ogy development in Smart Agriculture, Energy, Forestry, Fire prevention, Safety and Emergency Rescue.

For further value Alberta HUB joined the iART Alliance led by AIRmarket.

At the core of iART's mission lies a bold objective: to achieve routine BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) operations utilizing a proven aircraft within airport environments and RTM Airspace(s) for commercial objectives.

Cenovus makes purchase agreement with MEG Energy

BY JOHN MATHER

Calgary-based Cenovus Energy Inc. has entered into an agreement to acquire MEG Energy Corp. in a deal worth $7.9 billion in a cash and stock transaction.

Cenovus is a significant player in the Alberta Industrial Heartland where it operates the Bruderheim Energy Terminal.

The facility provides

vital transportation options for Cenovus’s oil products and is located midway between Bruderheim and Lamont.

Cenovus is also a producer of oil and natural gas in the region and engages in community investment initiatives such as supporting Lamont County FCSS programs.

MEG Energy owns a parcel of land and operates the Stonefell

Terminal in Lamont County, which connects to the Access Pipeline and serves its Christina Lake operations.

While MEG’s primary operations are in the southern Athabasca region, their presence in Lamont County is centred on the terminal and associated infrastructure for transporting its thermal oil to market.

In a press release MEG Energy reported that

under the terms of the agreement each MEG shareholder will have the option to elect to receive for each MEG Share (i) $27.25 in cash; or (ii) 1.325 in Cenovus common Shares.

TO CREDITORS AND CLAIMANTS

Postal Drawer 929 5038 - 50 Avenue Vegreville, Alberta T9C 1S1 If you do not file by the date above, the estate property can lawfully be distributed without regard to any claim you may have.

Bruderheim heats up with second annual Chili Cook-Off

BY MELISSA MACINTOSH-YOUNG

Bruderheim residents brought the spice and the smiles this past weekend as the community gathered for the second annual Chili Cook-Off.

With eight entries on the table, the event offered a mouthwatering lineup that went far beyond the traditional pot of chili.

From unique creations like butter chicken chili and white chicken chili

to tried-and-true classic recipes, there was something for every palate.

Residents eagerly lined up with tasting cups in hand, sampling each version before casting their votes for the top three favorites.

The friendly competition quickly turned into a lively social event, with plenty of laughter, conversation, and, of course, second helpings.

“You could really taste the creativity,” said one

participant. “Everyone had their own spin on it, and it was fun to see how different chili can be.”

When the ballots were counted, Melissa MacIntosh-Young took home first place honours, Jonathan Filion earned second, and Allison Diaz claimed third. Each winner was met with cheers and applause as bragging rights were handed out alongside the awards.

BY JANA SEMENIUK

Candidates for Bruderheim town council, both old and new, took in the Charity Car Show on Aug. 30 with some volunteering their time to help out.

The Town has four council seats and one mayor seat to be filled with the Oct. 20 election. So far Bruderheim has exactly five candidates running for council and one candidate running for mayor.

Luis Diaz, who helped organize the Charity Car Show fundraiser with his wife Allison and Chipman Car Crafter’s President Dave Gray, said lowering taxes motivated him to want a council seat this election.

“I want to lower the cost of living for the residents and also the businesses, and help this town grow. I moved here about four years ago, and I just couldn't believe how high the property taxes were,” said Diaz.

Newcomer Lesster Quijano Acosta is also running for a seat on council and said he is hoping for a better relationship between the council members and the town residents.

“We need a change in the politics. We need a better connection between the town people and the town government and it's not happening,” he said, adding he hopes for more community events like the car show in the future.

“That's what you need from a little town. You

need the town coming together, doing things together and supporting each other.”

Current town councillor Arlie Young, elected to council during a byelection in 2023, said he will be running in this year’s election. He said he wants to help Bruderheim become a great town with a new council.

“I’ve learned a lot over the past couple of years and want to build on that to help grow the town,” he said. “I also want to be an ear for the residents and a voice for them on council.”

Another newcomer, long time resident Ron Ewasiuk, has thrown his name in for the mayor seat. Ewasiuk said Bruderheim needs a change and so far, he is the only candidate for mayor.

“I think we need change. We need some

new life, a new outlook on how to make the town better,” he said. “It's all about the taxpayers, the people. They deserve the best because they pay hard working taxes to the town and we're just going to try and build on that and make it a place where people want to be.”

Incumbent Deputy Mayor Dayna Jacobs came out for the charity event with her young daughter. She is also hoping for a second term on council and said she was encouraged by residents to run. Jacobs has so far served one term after an acclimation in 2021.

“My main goal in Bruderheim has been the youth. I want to see families involved and things for families to do,” she said. “I’ve still got a little bit more work to do.”

Another newcomer, Andy Styles, was first to

add his name to the candidate list for council. Although he wasn’t available for an interview at the Car Show, he directed the Lamont Leader to his website for information on his motivation for running.

“I want to be a productive member of council and not just a "butt in a seat",” states his website.

“I have attended almost all town council meeting over the past three years. If elected, I want to use the knowledge I have

gained to hit the ground running.”

Current Bruderheim

Mayor Karl Hauch said by text he was unavailable to attend the Charity Car Show due to a prior family commitment.

Although Hauch initially added his name to the candidate list for Mayor, by July 9 his name was removed.

Hauch did not offer an explanation, and said he has no plans to run for mayor at this time. On whether he may run for a

council seat, Hauch said, “Not determined at this time.”

Hauch was first elected to council in 2010 and then elected to the mayor seat during a byelection in 2011 where he’s sat ever since.

Current Councillor Len Falardeau was unable to attend the Car Show but said by text message he will not be running for another council seat in the election.

Continued on Page 9

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Andrew Rural Academy comes alive in old school halls for first time in 2 years - while strike looms for others

BY JANA SEMENIUK

Laughter and chatter of children filled the old Andrew School for the first time on Sept. 2, since it was shut down for good by Elk Island Public Schools in 2023.

Reborn as the K-12 charter school Andrew Rural Academy, staff and new principal Brian Dewar stood outside the building to welcome all the new students with open arms for their first day of school.

No one was concerned about the potential province-wide teacher’s strike that seemed closer to reality last week when both sides reached an impasse at the bargaining table.

Dewar explained in a prior interview that charter school teachers are only allowed to be associate members of the Alberta Teachers’ Association and not fully active members, meaning they can still attend the annual conferences but don’t receive the protection of the ATA.

As a result, if a strike is called, which the ATA only has until Oct. 7 to do with 72 hours notice, it won’t be noticed at Andrew Rural Academy.

“It does not affect us as a charter school,” said Dewar.

Meanwhile, the ATA first voted 95 percent in favour of strike action in June, having 120 days to initiate a strike with 72 hours notice. The issues they wanted addressed, according to the ATA website, included large

Council hopefuls

Continued from Page 8

Another current councillor, George Campbell, attended the Car Show and said he hasn’t decided if he will run for a seat in this year’s election. Campbell has been on Bruderheim’s town council for the past 12 years.

class sizes, increasing classroom complexity, dwindling supports and wages that didn’t account for the problems or keep up with inflation.

In a joint statement by Finance Minister Nate Horner and Education Minister Demetrios Nicholaides, they said on Aug. 26, they made an offer to the ATA which included hiring 3,000 more teachers over the next three years (which the union requested in June), as well as a 12 percent salary increase over four years with additional increases. The offer was rejected.

“They have been offered what they asked for. They have been offered what they said was needed,” included the statement.

In a video statement to the ATA’s website, president Jason Schilling said 3,000 new teachers was ‘a drop in the bucket and should have already been planned for by government to address population growth’.

An additional point made by Schilling is data suggesting Alberta has the lowest funding per student in Canada. According to Statistics Canada, in 2022/2023 Alberta spent $11,464 per student while the national average was $13,692. The highest spending per student is in Quebec where more than $16,000 was spent.

Alberta Parents Union Executive Director Jeff Park countered this

“If I do choose to run for the election it will be with much thought and consideration for the welfare of the community at large and due respect for the residents of the town,” he said.

Councillor Ashley Carter, acclaimed to Bruderheim council in 2021, was unavailable for comment by press time.

According to the town’s website, a candi-

claim and said the data is being misinterpreted. He said Alberta has several contributing factors other provinces don’t face, including lower provincial funding for private and home school students.

“It’s not just publicschool spending in that total,” he said. “Our private schools are only funded at 70 percent while our homeschool students are only funded at 12.5 percent. Officials with StatCan told CBC News it's actually impossible with the available public-facing data to precisely calculate per-student funding for public schools and make truly accurate comparisons between provinces.”

According to data provided on the provincial government website, Alberta recorded 825,817 students in all schools and authorities in Jan. 2025. Home education, and private school students made up 10 percent of that total.

There were also 15,400 students reported in charter schools which are funded the same as public schools.

Currently, Alberta is the only province allowed to operate charter schools, with the most significant difference being they are run by their own board verses a school division.

Meanwhile, there are so far no dates scheduled for future labour negotiations with the ATA.

date forum is scheduled for Sept. 24 and the election is slated for Oct. 20.

Anyone wishing to run for a seat as councillor or mayor will have until Sept. 22 at noon to file their nomination papers.

The next Bruderheim public council meeting is scheduled for Sept. 17 at 7 p.m. in the town’s fire station.

UNRESERVED AUCTION SALE

ART BARON

SPRUCE GROVE, ALBERTA

SATURDAY, SEPT. 6, 2025 AT 10:00 A.M.

LOCATION:

DIRECTIONS:

go 4 miles south to Township Rd 522, then 1/2 mile east.

Tractor: JD 500 Tractor c/w F.E.L. c/w pallet forks; MF 50 Propane Tractor c/w F.E.L.; JD 4010 Tractor, needs work; JD 2010, Parts

Equipment: JD 500 Tractor c/w

F.E.L. c/w pallet forks; MF 50

Propane Tractor c/w F.E.L.; JD 4010 Tractor, needs work; JD 2010, Parts

Trailers: JD 500 Tractor c/w F.E.L. c/w pallet forks; MF 50 Propane Tractor c/w F.E.L.; JD 4010 Tractor, needs work; JD 2010, Parts Quad: Polaris 600 Twin Sportman Quad, on demand A.W.D. c/w racks & winches

Miscellaneous: Hyundai HY 3400

R.V. Power Generator; Miller Thunderbolt 225 EL Welder; Metal Bandsaw; 478 Cummins Eng.

Organizers c/w Bolts & Screws; Assort. Tractor Parts; Assort. New Tires; Assort. Tractor Starters; Drill Press; Radial Arm Saw; Hyd. Parts; Smith Roles Tire Changer; New J.D. Rim for F.W.A.; Assort. Big Hyd. Winches; Assort Drill Bits; (3) 30-ft Pipe Pallet Racks; Pipe Stand; Assort. F.E. Loader Brackets; Assort. Hyd. Controlls & Hyd Blocks; Large Assort. Tools; Assort. Fittings; Butterfield Tap & Die Set; Bolt Bins c/w bolts; Sockets; Air Impacts; Pipe Wrenches; Crescents; Racking; Parts Bins; Work Benches; AC Tools; Computer; Filing Cabinets; Assort. Tractor Manuals; Assort. Part Manuals; Large Assort. Tractor Service Manuals; Many more

PEDESTRIANS

BE ALERT FOR CHILDREN NEAR SCHOOLS, BUS STOPS AND ON SIDEWALKS. MAKE EYE CONTACT BEFORE PROCEEDING. MAKE

I

AHEALTHYBREAKYGIVESYOURENERGYANDMENTAL HEALTHAGREATSTARTTOTHEDAY.

New Andrew daycare opening delayed

BY JANA SEMENIUK

Andew’s new childcare facility, Mini Mallards Day Care, is filling up fast but hitting snags which prevented their scheduled opening day of Sept. 2.

The daycare’s facilitator, Cassandra Winterburn, posted to their social media on Aug. 30 with the news of a delay in the daycare’s license.

“Unfortunately, we will not be able to open on the 2nd of September.

Even with much calling and emailing, we haven't received our license yet, but I'm hoping that I will have a better, happier update for you all in the coming week,” she said. In the meantime, Winterburn said she can accept up to six children unlicensed.

Winterburn was previously the alternate director for a child care facility in Two Hills and was motivated to open her own childcare centre in

Andrew where she lives with her family.

“I saw (the village) was looking for someone to (open a daycare) and it’s been a goal of mine since I started learning. I’ve always wanted to work with kids so being able to do this with a daycare just nailed it,” she said.

Winterburn set up the daycare using space inside the Andrew Rural Academy, including installing new fencing in the yard for small children to enjoy the outdoors safely with daycare staff.

She said the daycare can accept children from two months old to grade six, including out of school care and there are currently six people employed at the centre. Winterburn said she is hoping to include a preschool in the future.

SCHOOL ZONES MONITORED IN ANDREW AS RURAL ACADEMY UP AND RUNNING

Lamont Reeve Diduck brings oil and gas concerns to CBC

BY JOHN MATHER

Lamont County has had to write off about $279,000 in unpaid taxes after the provincial energy regulator pulled the pin on Calgary-based Cycle Oil and Gas Ltd.

The Alberta Energy Regulator said on Aug. 21 it told the company to abandon its 36 sites across the province within two weeks due to its failure to comply with AER orders and its financial inability to maintain and operate its operations.

The AER said the move was necessary to “Protect the public and the environment.”

The majority of the 36 sites, including wells, pipelines, and facility sites, are located in Strathcona County and Lamont County northeast of Edmonton. The company also has sites near Red Deer, Millet, and Swan Hills.

Lamont County Reeve David Diduck said Cycle had nine active wells in the county, and still owes $279,000 in tax arrears for those sites.

He said the company is adding to the increasing trend of companies abandoning wells in the  county during the past decade.

In total, Lamont County has had to write off about $6 million in tax arrears from oil companies over the past six years, added Diduck.

“So the government asking [Cycle] to shut down their operations is gonna cost the county another $279,000 in lost taxes on top of what we've lost in the previous six years here," Diduck said.

He had brought the matter to the attention of the County council during their Aug. 26 regular council meeting.

The county received a letter from Alberta Municipal Affairs Engagement Team stating County officials could meet with Minister the Honourable Dan

Williams during the annual Rural Municipalities Association’s fall convention.

The letter outlined possible discussion points and added County officials could pick three topics to discuss during their allotted 15-minutes.

Suggested topics included: improved funding to municipalities for infrastructure renewal (eg: STIP for bridge replacement); concern that LPRT (Land and Property Rights Tribunal) decisions are adversely affecting sustainability of municipalities (overturning assessment); the impact of significant increase in Education Tax Levy and perception that it is municipal taxation –downloading of tax payer perception. Inequitable allocation of costs – no new schools being built in Lamont County; opportunity for additional potential grants for water line conveyance. increase in financial support for vital social programs delivered by municipalities, including Family & Community Support Services and the Family Resource Network; or other topics the County might add.

Chief Administrative Offer Peter Tarnawsky in bringing forth the letter added other topics might be the increasing costs of emergency protection equipment such as fire department capital costs items that could maybe

be shared on a three-way partnership with the province.

At this point Reeve David Diduck told council he would be conducting his CBC interview during a break in the meeting.

“I know it’s something the RMA is pursuing here,” he said. “But across the province there are more than $300 million in unpaid oil and gas taxes.

“In our case it’s over $6-million and if you divide that by our population it’s roughly $1,600 to $1,700 per resident.”

He wondered if council thought it might be a good idea to talk to the minister when they met regarding some funding to recover that lost revenue.

“Here yet there is more downloading by the Province and as a result it’s the municipalities that end up carrying this cost.”

Diduck also said the president of surface rights board called him regarding concerns they had that council could bring to the minister.

He said it appeared the oil and gas companies were riding on the backs of municipalities and he felt sustainability was something council should bring to the attention of the minister when they had the chance.

Council passed a meeting to discuss: municipal sustainability matters; bridge funding through STIP grants; and LRPT decisions.

LAMONT COUNTY

• W4-19-54-11-SW Plan 1026758 Block 1 Lot 2 Lamont County. 75.12 acres in the Lamont County 55 acres ± in cultivation. Price $330,00 • W4-19-57-15-NW East Half Lamont County 78.01 acres with 45 acres ± in hay. Nice building site. Price: $280,000

TOWN OF LAMONT

5119 48 Ave, 5121 48 Ave, and 5116 47 Ave Lamont AB 3 commercial lots 50' by 100', 65' by 100', and 30' by 100' Price: $200,000

VILLAGE OF ANDREW

in Loving Memory of George Kuzyk

May 5, 1920 - Aug. 30, 2010

Our loving husband, father, grandfather, & great-grandfather.

Fifteen years have gone by. They hold a million memories and a thousand silent tears.

To us you were so special. We miss you more each day. We wish with all our hearts that you were here today.

Lovingly remembered by your Wife - Elaine, Your Children - Georgina, Nick and Darlene, Deborah and Mark, Your Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren

CARD OF THANKS

A huge thank you to our local grocery store, Fresh Market and the Hadi Halabi family and grandparents.

We appreciate your generosity in sending an abundance of surprise refreshments for our last day of summer crafts at the library. The kids and parents devoured the treats. THANK YOU! ————————————————

On behalf of the entire family we would like to express our sincere gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time.

We were deeply touched by the visits, cards, flowers, food, phone calls, texts, and the donations received from our families, friends and community.

Your kindness has been a source of comfort and strength for us.

With heartfelt thanks, The family of Frank Vitek

COMING EVENTS

Beets, Potatoes, and Carrots Are Ready!!!

East of Sedgewick, off Highway 13, turn north on RR122, then go north 3 miles. Helen Tanton - 780-888-6800 28tfnc ————————————————

SUMMER SALE!

$500 Off a pair of hearing devices! Free remote control!

Can be combined with government funding from AADL of $900 Benchmark Hearing Centre

Main Street Daysland Phone 780-374-3748 Or book online! benchmarkhearingcentre.ca

You're Invited to our OPEN HOUSE at Flagstaff Community Adult Learning. Tuesday, Sept 16th 11:30 AM - 2 PM including Free Lunch

Main Street Killam5023 50th Street

Come and see what we do, find out about upcoming classes and meet the staff.

35/36c

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CLASSIFIEDS

COMING EVENTS

Birthday Party

Ccome and enjoy

George Walz's 90th Birthday Party at the Tofield Golden Club; 5004 54 Ave, Tofield, Saturday, September 13th from 1-4 pm. No gifts. TM35P

FOR RENT

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Storage Unit For Rent in Killam

Inside private warehouse

building behind Community Press office. Security cameras on site, building heated in winter. Upstairs units available, approx 8’ x 12’. Back alley access only.

$99/mo. with $100 damage deposit. Or pre-pay for 6 months for $495 (1 month free) or pre-pay for 1 year for $990 (2 months free).

Rental contract required. First month due at signing. Call/Leave Voicemail for Ally 780-385-6693 or stop by The Community Press office on Main Street in Killam.

FOR SALE

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Equipment For Sale

• Zero Turn Cub Cadet Lawnmower 54" with approximately 250 hours 2 years old

• Kubota Side by Side with Dump Box

• Massey Ferguson model 255 with approximately 3,000 hours with ease-on front end loader.

• Restored W30 International. New paint, runs good. Call Norman at 780-385-8814. 33/37p

————————————————

BLS Fresh Garden Products

The following will be available soon: peas, beans, cucumbers, cabbages, dill. For other products please text 780-860-2672. In the Bruce area. TM32-35p ————————————————

Large Round Tame Hay Bales for Sale. Phone: 780-679-7094

34/35p

4 month old Hens. Mixed breed Australorp, Plymouth Rock Columbian Rock Hens. Started to lay eggs. $18.00 a bird. More information phone or text 780-632-9881. LL32p

HELP WANTED

Lamont Vision Centre is hiring!

- Optician (licensed or student) - Receptionist Flexible hours for both positions. Please email resume to bailee.cvc@gmail.com to apply.

34/37P ————————————————

Part-Time Help Needed Guardian Drugs Killam 3 days a week or more if needed. Send resume to killamguardiandrugs@gmail.com or drop off in-store with Janet. 35c

REAL ESTATE

½ Section Pastureland

NE 35 & NW 36-41-10-W4 located south of Hardisty in the Battle River valley at RR 101 & TWP RD 420. Fenced, cross-fenced, mix of seeded and tame grass with large dug-out, pumping system, full power on site with gravel revenue. Call Mike Golka REMAX River City 780-914-9889 MLS#’s E4447511 & E4447499 tfnc

Looking for New Farm & Commercial Listings! Give us a call, we’d love to sell your property! Hill Realty Inc. 780-449-5622 nhill01@telus.net www.hillrealty.ca

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

INTEGRITY POST FRAME

BUILDINGS since 2008 BUILT WITH CONCRETE POSTS. Barns, Shops, Riding Arenas, Machine Sheds and more, sales@integritybuilt.com 1-866-974-7678 www.integritybuilt.com

Painting

Quality Residential and Commercial Interior Painting. Betty Tkaczyk 780-632-8749

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Hawkeye Custom Corral Cleaning Hawkeye Ag Inc is your complete solution for corral cleaning. We also provide services in the agriculture space: land clearing, pen rebuilding, aggregate for small and large farm operations. Based out of Lamont. 780-718-7479

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MUNICIPALITIES! Don’t forget to book your Notice of Nomination Day and Notice of Election ads! Get the word out to a larger audience for the best candidates!

———————————————

CRIMINAL RECORD? Why suffer employment/licensing loss? Travel/business opportunities? Be embarrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US entry waiver. Record purge. File destruction. Free consultation. 1-800-347-2540. www.accesslegalmjf.com.

———————————————

PRIVATE MORTGAGE LENDER. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1-866-405-1228; www.firstandsecondmortgages.ca

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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.

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Be prepared for winter power outages.

GENERAC Generators It’s not just a Generator, it’s a Power Move.

Receive a free 5-year warranty with qualifying purchase - valued at $535 Call 587-803-3600 to schedule your free quote!

——————————————— Leave the tanks at home. Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators Convert the air around you into medical grade oxygen. At just under 3 lbs, Inogen lightweight and compact portable oxygen concentrators easily deliver your prescription oxygen on-the-go

Call Us Now 1-833-997-1719

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Lamont County donates $25,000 for Lamont Curling Club’s new ice plant Former ice plant crashed just prior to club’s big bonspiel

BY JANA SEMENIUK

Four members of the Lamont Curling Club, Gerald Maschmeyer, Tim Bartz, Aaron Geiger and Bob Starko, presented their case for a donation request to the Lamont County Council at the council’s regular meeting Aug. 26.

The group were looking for support to help fund a new ice plant, which keeps the ice surface intact and worth $600,000, needed when their original one broke down in spring right before a major event.

“We had the food bought, concession stuff and everything was ready for the weekend,” said Maschmeyer, speaking of the Last Chance

Bonspiel scheduled for April right when the ice plant went down.

“We made national news (though, with Keg Curling) to fill in.”

Maschmeyer said the Town of Lamont stepped up and agreed to pay the bill for the new ice plant, and the curling club has applied for a $300,000 grant. In terms of the additional $300,000, Maschmeyer said the club wants to fundraise $150,000 of it.

“This was a catastrophic event. When the plant goes out it’s a big nut to crack to get it back going again,” said Bartz.

Maschmeyer added the plant will be brand new and housed outside the building on a skid

and scheduled to be installed Oct. 1.

Gieger said given the building’s aging infrastructure this feature could come in handy.

“The nice thing is, the plant can be picked up, unhooked and moved over to wherever we need it to be. It’s not being installed inside,” he said, adding this feature also brought the price down.

At the end of their closed session, the County of Lamont agreed to a donation of $25,000 to the Lamont Curling Club, funded through their Community Services grant program.

The LCC was built in 1980.

COUNCIL UPDATE – August 12 and 26 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.

August 12 Regular Council meeting (minutes were approved Aug. 26). Highlights from this meeting include:

Hwy 855/16 Advocacy

Council directed Administration to prepare a letter signed by the Deputy Reeve to the Government of Alberta around safety options and next steps for the intersections of HWY855 and HWY16.

Sponsorship Requests

Council received two delegations, one from Shock Trauma Air Rescue Service (STARS) Air Ambulance, also presenting STARS with its annual per capita support cheque, an update on STARS operations within Lamont County and a presentation for 33 years’ commitment to the service. The second delegation was from the Rural Health Professionals Action Plan, which focuses on attraction, retention and integration of medical professionals (including doctors) within rural Alberta. Council approved sponsorship for the Andrew Ag. Society Garlic Festival.

Council Business

- Council repealed its Code of Conduct Bylaw (843.23) to align with the Municipal Government Act regulations.

- Council approved its Access to Information Bylaw to replace FOIP based on the new Alberta Government privacy legislation.

- Council approved its Fees and Charges Bylaw to incorporate nonpayment reconnection fees for key holders of the St. Michael NonPotable Water Station.

- Council reviewed its Dust Control Policy for any gaps or priority locations and added additional locations to the list of properties eligible for dust control. Council also reviewed its Gravel Program for additional miles to be addressed as priority this year.

- Council approved two bridge culvert replacement tenders (these are heavily supported through grant funding).

- Council approved its Sustainable Revenue Financial Policy to guide how new revenue is allocated in the future (supporting the business plan in the area of Stabilize; Focused Growth and Reinvestment, and Council's six strategic goals.

August 26 Council meeting (minutes are approved next Council meeting). Highlights from this meeting include: Grants, Scholarships and Sponsorships

Council awarded two Centennial Scholarships for 2025.

Congratulations

Council approved a $25,000 grant for Lamont Curling Club’s ice plant replacement, funded from its Community Services grant program.

Council approved 22 Community Halls and Transportation Grants funding for 2025 and a $2,000 sponsorship for the Lamont Public Library.

Public Engagement Survey Results

Council received a presentation of its annual public engagement survey on service levels and budget input. Third party provider, Y Station, conducted this survey and results reporting to ensure transparency.

Declaration of Rail Safety Week

Council declared September 15-21 as Rail Safety Week in Lamont County, and promoted “Operation Clear Track” activities to the three RCMP Detachments serving Lamont County.

Council Business

-Council the Rural Municipalities of Alberta annual conference to discuss municipal sustainability matters, bridge funding, and Land and Property Rights Tribunal matters.

-Council discussed graveling options on TWP574 near RR171 and directed Administration to bring a plan back to a future Council Meeting.

-Council directed Administration to add 30m to the west end of dust control for TWP562 between RR195 and RR200.

-In Committee of the Whole, was briefed regarding candidate nomination requirements for the 2025 Municipal Election.

- Council decided to pause advertising for the Self-Guided Church Tour.

-In Committee of the Whole, received information regarding Lamont County’s GIS Strategy. This will further evolve mapping, accuracy and usability

or

Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, September 3, 2025 -19

Community Services: Serving Lamont County, Lamont, Bruderheim, Mundare, Andrew & Chipman (scan the QR code below for info.)

(VISIT: lamontcounty.ca/community-programming for full posters, dates, contact information & registration info or call 780-8952233 for info./registration). This website and the Event Calendar are updated frequently.

Current CALC, FCSS & KFRN and seniors’ activities include:

1. FCSS: Parents and Tots is looking for parent volunteers to assist with its programs. Contact Community Services for more information or to sign up to assist. The Lamont program starts Sept. 8. 2. Community Awareness Nights – in September (see the poster below).

3. FCSS: Meals on Wheels (September Menu) – note: an intake form is now required with your first order (access the forms at: lamontcounty.ca/community-programming).

4. Seniors’ Coffee: 10-11 a.m. (Wed.) in Andrew, & (Thurs.) and in Mundare. Join FCSS for coffee, conversation, snacks, & assistance with senior-related supports. Seniors Coffee is in St. Michael (Thurs.) from 10 a.m. to noon.

See Lamont County’s calendar for local community events, public meetings & other important dates lamontcounty.ca/eventscalendar

To access current COMMUNITY SERVICES programs and information, scan the QR code or for FCSS, CALC & KFRN on each of the services’ Facebook pages. | CALC/FCSS/KFRN: 877-895-2233 |

Reminder school is back in session. Make sure to share the road with buses and watch for children (including those waiting for transportation and in school zones). See lamontcounty.ca/news/post/ news-release-safety-first-don-t-fly-by-school-buses and ruralcrimewatch.ab.ca/news/articles/school-bus-safety-101 for safety tips. Be safe and slow down. It is illegal to pass a school bus with flashing red lights or its stop sign extended. Doing so can result in a $567 fine and losing six demerits. School Zone speed limit is 30 km/h, in effect from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on school days & Playground Zone speed limit is 30 km/h every day from 8:30 a.m., ending one hour after sunset (alberta.ca/school-and-playground-zones).

REUNION event and invitation –(Coworkers, old friends from between 1980-2000 Archer Mem. Hospital, Lamont Aux. Hosp.& Nursing Home). Sept. 2 Contact Denise W. for tix. /details: 780-232-1452 drwarawa@mcsnet.ca

For full menu, VISIT: lamontcounty.ca/ communityprogramming

Please Note – inFocus is also accessible online at: lamontcounty.ca/communications (to view full-sized PDF & access hyperlinks).

The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, September 3, 2025

Community Programming

Other Items of Interest

Weed Wednesday – REMINDERS of noxious weeds and control. See Lamont County Facebook and X for posters each week. Visit: lamontcounty.ca/weeds for a full list of weeds that are commonly identified across Lamont County. This week’s featured prohibited weed is a multiple listing of prohibited noxious weeds . If you find it, report it! Learn all about it on the Alberta Invasive Species Council fact sheet: abinvasives.ca/invasive-plants/ Municipal Election Information – lamontcounty.ca/municipal-election

Local County and municipality events, farmers’ markets, community services programming (including summer camps), community celebrations and activities, Council and committee meetings, etc., can be found at: lamontcounty.ca/eventscalendar Lamont County Council has proclaimed Rail Safety Week in Lamont County as September 15-21. Stop, Look, Listen.

Kudos and Congratulations!

Did You KNOW? ...

• Congratulations Gabrielle Wendorff and Christian Nimchuk, the 2025 Centennial Scholarship recipients ($1,000 each). More details (news release) and presentation will occur at the September 9 Council Meeting. Thank you to everyone who participated in this year’s Lamont County Reeve’s Charity Golf Tournament. We expect to exceed $30,000 donation to the County of Lamont Food Bank for its housing fund and Christmas Hamper program. It's harvest season! #LamontCounty wishes all producers a safe and prosperous harvest. Watch for larger (& slow-moving) vehicles/equipment that may be on roadways during your travels. Some of these vehicles are wider than normal & need more space on the road. Keep your distance and proceed/ pass with caution when safe—usually vehicles will pull to the side of the road periodically to allow you to pass. Be patient and safe!

Development Permit

Lamont County joins cities and departments across Canada to honour and remember those who sacrificed their lives in service to their communities during Canadian Fallen Firefighters National Memorial Day. (Learn more: canada.ca/en/public-safety-canada /news/2017/08/the_government_ofcanada establishesfirefightersnationalmemorialda.html) – SEPTEMBER 7

Annual Budget Discussions

Did you know Lamont County Council completes its budget discussions annually each year. This is required by the Municipal Government Act and is part of the budget approval process (the final budget goes for approval before the last Council Meeting each year). Budget discussions (and recommendations) do not have a specific timeframe to be completed, and can occur at any time as directed by the current Council.

With the 2025 Municipal Election, Council approved discussions to be held in August instead of November. The intention of this was to assist the new Council with a starting point when they debate the final budget. It also aids the incoming Council because with training and onboarding, the first few months after an election can be overwhelming. See: lamontcounty.ca/news/ post/budget-process-clarification

A good best practice in an election year is to have the outgoing Council provide its recommendations for the incoming Council to debate—it also takes the expertise of Council’s previous four years forward so that decisions align with the County’s strategic direction and (2030) business plan.

The incoming council has full responsibility, absolute power and direction to set and approve the final budget to fully meet the needs of our community.

Also see lamontcounty.ca/faqs for more of your questions answered or to ask a question you may want further clarification around.

Grazing School for Women

• Grazing School for Women Interactive Workshop: September 10-11 at Ardmore Community Hall. Register at eventbrite.ca/e/the-original-grazing-school-for-women-tickets-1564015214609 or on Facebook: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554913993741. Created by farm women for farm women, to provide opportunities to develop skills, ask questions and learn with other like-minded women.

• Intermunicipal Subdivision and Development Appeal Board (ISDAB) – Call for members-at-large.

Recent News Posts (lamontcounty.ca/news)

NEWS RELEASE – Service Level Survey 2025 - Final Summary Results ( ) Temporary Road Closures (Aug. 27)

NEWS RELEASE – Lamont County Budget Committee Discussions: Aug. 18 (Aug. 20) Service Level and Operational Highlights - 2025 Budget (Aug. 19) Budget Process Clarification (Aug. 18)

Confirm you are registered to vote in the 2025 Municipal Election at voterlink.ab.ca. Council Meeting Highlights – August 26 (lamontcounty.ca/governance/agendas-minutes) Council Meeting Highlights – August 12

If your last name or company begins with the letters F, Po, and T, remember to get your registration renewed before the end of August! See monthly reminders: alberta.ca/vehicle-registration-expiry-date-chart.aspx Brought to you by the Elk Island Traffic Safety Partners.

The public is welcome to attend any scheduled meeting in person or virtually). Meetings start at 9 a.m. in Council Chambers/Lam ont County Admin. Bldg. (unless otherwise noted).

Next Regular Council Meeting: Tuesday, September 9 | Next ASB meeting: Wednesday, October 8 lamontcounty.ca/governance/agendas-minutes | lamontcounty.ca/agendas-minutes-asb