Sherwood Park Minute: Intersection Cameras, County Tartan, and a Proposed Pickleball Facility

Sherwood Park Minute - Your weekly one-minute summary of Sherwood Park politics

This Week In Sherwood Park:

• There will be a Council Meeting on Tuesday at 2:00 pm. There will be a closed session, wherein Council will have a Municipal Historic Resource Designation Discussion, as well as address the Warren Thomas Airport and an update on construction costs. There will also be a Public Hearing to get feedback on several land use amendment proposals.
  
  
• Strathcona County is ceasing operations of all intersection safety devices (ISDs) starting February 1st, following the provincial government's restrictions on photo radar use. The County decided not to renew its contract with the traffic camera vendor, aligning with new rules that limit photo radar to school zones, playgrounds, and construction sites. Officials anticipate a potential rise in traffic violations initially, requiring alternative safety measures like increased patrols and signage. The County collected $1.19 million in net revenue from ISDs in 2023.
  
  
• Peavey Mart is closing all 90-plus locations across Canada due to ongoing financial struggles, marking the end of a company that has served rural communities since 1967. Despite efforts to restructure, including closing 22 underperforming stores and securing $155 million in financing, the company could not remain viable. This marks a significant shift in the retail landscape, particularly in rural Canada, where Peavey Mart played a vital role.

Last Week In Sherwood Park:

• The Strathcona County Pickleball Association (SCPA) has proposed a $2.52-million, 20-court pickleball facility in Sherwood Park to accommodate the sport's growing demand. Located near the future indoor fieldhouse in Sally Stewart Park, the facility would feature 14 courts for SCPA, six for public use, and additional amenities such as restrooms and seating. The group has already raised $150,000 and is seeking $1.16 million in provincial grants and $1.21 million from the County. The project will be considered as part of the Budget 2026 process.
  
  
• Strathcona County has unveiled a new tartan design intended to reflect the region's history and identity. Approved by Council, the tartan incorporates colours representing the County's Coat of Arms, local Indigenous history, and its connection to Lord Strathcona. The design includes green for the valley between hills, brown for the Beaver Hills and Treaty 6, gold for the agricultural industry, and red for the vibrant community. Based on the 1853 Balmoral tartan, the County aims to register it with the Scottish Register of Tartans and launch it on Canada Day.
  
  
• It was announced that Jennifer Cannon, Strathcona County’s Associate Commissioner of Corporate Services and CFO, will serve as interim Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) following Darrell Reid’s retirement. Mayor Rod Frank expressed confidence in Cannon’s ability to lead, citing her experience in corporate decision-making and guiding both administration and council. Cannon’s role as Interim CAO will include overseeing the development and implementation of policies, advising Council, and ensuring smooth operations as the search for a permanent CAO continues. The hiring process for the new CAO is underway.