Sherwood Park Minute: Issue 98

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

📅 This Week In Sherwood Park: 📅

• Today, at 9:00 am, there will be a Public Hearing to gather feedback on a proposal to rezone about 28 acres in Ward 4, near Wolf Willow Way and Old Man Creek Boulevard. The land would change from Agriculture: Future Development to a mix of residential, conservation, and public utility zones, following the Cambrian Crossing Area Structure Plan. Council will also consider closing a small section of road in Hearthstone at Cambrian, Ward 4. The road isn’t needed for public use and would be added to the neighbouring lot to allow a land sale and support ongoing development.
  
  
• Council will hold a meeting on Wednesday at 9:00 am. The meeting will take place in a closed session featuring a facilitated workshop on the 2027-2030 Strategic Plan.
  
  
• Elk Island Catholic Schools (EICS) is adjusting Kindergarten to Grade 4 boundaries to accommodate growth in the Bremner and Cambrian communities. Starting September 2026, students in these areas will be assigned to Holy Spirit Catholic School. Transportation boundaries will also be updated, and students in the new communities will be eligible for school bus service. EICS plans to establish new bus routes in the spring. The boundary adjustments are part of broader efforts to align school services with the needs of growing communities. Families can review updated maps and registration information on the EICS website and contact the division with any questions.
  
  
• Lorne Harvey, Ward 3 Councillor, contributed an article to the Sherwood Park News explaining the County’s financial situation amid ongoing growth. Harvey said that while growth brings rising costs - from construction, inflation, and increasing service expectations - these pressures can be managed through careful long-term planning. He highlighted that maintaining strong reserves, using debt strategically, and following a structured multi-year capital plan allows the County to pace growth responsibly and care for existing infrastructure. Harvey stressed the importance of being honest with residents about the costs of sustaining a high-performing community while balancing new development with asset renewal. He expressed confidence that, with realistic expectations and shared commitment, the County can continue providing essential services and keep future costs as predictable as possible.
  
  
• Strathcona County will introduce a $1.50 fee for residents who choose to continue receiving paper utility bills, starting in April. Residents can avoid the charge by switching to free e-billing, which delivers bills via email. Certain exemptions are available for residents without internet or mobile data access, and forms can be submitted online or in person at the Utility offices in Sherwood Park. The County says residents can learn more and sign up for e-billing through its website. 

🚨 This Week’s Action Item: 🚨

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