Sherwood Park Minute: Photo Radar, Fire Support, and the Beaver Hills Biosphere

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

This Week In Sherwood Park:

• There are no Council meetings this week - or for the remainder of the year. Council will next meet on January 14th, 2025.
  
  
• The Strathcona County Library has a new writer in residence for 2025 - Anna Marie Sewell. A Métis poet and novelist, Sewell will mentor local writers through one-on-one sessions, group workshops, and events, all while working on a novel. She aims to foster community connections and creativity, with plans to feature guest artists at her events. Her residency will begin with a night of word games on January 15th, 2025, and she will hold office hours on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
  
  
• The County is reminding residents that the next municipal election for Mayor and Ward Councillors will take place in October 2025. Those interested in running can file nominations starting January 2nd, 2025, and must file a notice of intent before accepting campaign contributions or expenses. The election is currently scheduled for October 20th, 2025, but Council is considering moving it to October 18th to avoid conflict with the federal election. More information is available online.

Last Week In Sherwood Park:

• Mayor Rod Frank expressed concern about safety following the provincial government's decision to cut the number of photo radar locations by 70% across Alberta starting in 2025. The reduction will eliminate enforcement on provincial highways and municipal intersections, though photo radar will still be used in school, playground, and construction zones. Mayor Frank emphasized that photo radar in Strathcona County was intended to enhance safety, and he remains hopeful that municipalities can request additional sites if needed. The move will also impact the local budget, with Strathcona County expecting a decline in revenue from photo radar fines.
  
  
• Councillor Glen Lawrence highlighted the importance of the Beaver Hills Biosphere, a UNESCO-designated reserve in Strathcona County, which spans multiple regions, including Edmonton's eastern edge. He emphasized the biosphere's ecological significance, describing it as a vital resource for biodiversity preservation and sustainable tourism. Lawrence, a long-time supporter of the Beaver Hills project, celebrated its recognition at the 2024 Alberta Heritage Awards for its educational video series, which showcases the area's history and ecological value. He pointed out that the Biosphere represents a successful collaboration between communities, businesses, and conservation groups, demonstrating how human development can coexist with nature.
  
  
• Strathcona County Emergency Services (SCES) supported the Fort Saskatchewan Fire Department during a significant garage shop fire in the Clover Park neighbourhood. SCES deployed nine personnel and four vehicles, including water tankers, to assist with shuttling water to the fire site, which lacked hydrant access. Crews faced challenges from road conditions and hazardous debris, but the coordinated response prevented injuries and damage to nearby homes. Thick black smoke from the blaze was visible across the region, and the fire’s cause remains under investigation.