Sherwood Park Minute: Library Growth, School Construction, and Large Item Pickup

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 9:00 am. The meeting will begin in a closed session wherein Council will discuss an update to the Naming of Development Areas, Roads, Parks, and Public Facilities Policy, and funding for social agencies, among several other items. Once the meeting opens up to the public, Council will deal with agenda items including the Strathcona County Agriculture and Food Sector Development Strategy and changes to the 2024 meeting dates schedule, before a public hearing takes place regarding several zoning amendments.
  
  
• The County is reminding residents large item pickup begins this week. Residents can leave up to two large items at the curb for collection, ensuring any outdoor items meant for pickup are clearly labeled. Items must be placed at the curb by 7:30 am, must be under six feet by three feet, and must weigh less than 200 lbs.
  
  
• Today is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, and community members are invited to gather at the Community Centre’s Agora and participate in an Honour Walk around Broadmoor Lake Park. Festival Place will display orange lights in support of the "Every Child Matters" movement. These events are part of the County's commitment to ongoing healing and reconciliation efforts with Indigenous communities.

Last Week In Sherwood Park:

• The Strathcona County Library saw significant growth in 2023, with a 46% increase in program attendance and a 33% rise in in-person visits compared to the previous year. Its initiatives, including Indigenous programs, newcomer support, and digital borrowing, have expanded. The library is also exploring future plans for a new branch to serve the growing community in northern Strathcona County. Additionally, financial highlights show increased revenue and reserves, with a focus on sustainable planning for the future, including a potential new Bookmobile or service vans.
  
  
• Strathcona County said it is gearing up for significant school construction projects as part of Alberta’s $8.6 billion investment in education. Premier Danielle Smith has urged municipalities and school boards to expedite site preparation to ensure construction begins promptly. Collaborations with local school districts are underway to prioritize school site preparation and accommodate growing student populations in both new and established communities. There are plans for two new school sites in Cambrian Crossing.
  
  
• The Strathcona County Museum and Archives (Strathma) announced that it is bringing back its annual Halloween event with a new theme, "Mystery at the Museum." Running throughout October, visitors of all ages can participate in a self-guided mystery inspired by the board game Clue, where they gather clues to recover a missing artifact. The museum will be transformed into an old manor to enhance the immersive experience. For adults, a special murder mystery event is scheduled for October 17th, featuring live-action gameplay with escape room elements. Additionally, two all-ages spooky events will be held on October 26th, complete with a paranormal investigator, costume contests, and games.