Sherwood Park Minute: Playground Grant, County Surplus, and a New Chief Commissioner

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

This Week In Sherwood Park:

• There are no Council meetings at City Hall this week. The next meeting will take place on March 11th.
  
  
• Strathcona County has a new phone number, 1-844-414-BURN (2876), for permit holders to check burn conditions before starting any fire. Fire status is monitored hourly and can change based on weather conditions such as wind or dryness. The service is automated and available 24/7, and users are encouraged to call periodically during extended burns. You can visit the County’s website for more details on fire permits and conditions.
  
  
• Strathcona County is inviting business owners and commercial property managers to participate in an online waste survey. The feedback will help shape future waste management initiatives, with a focus on programs that are convenient, cost-effective, and consistent. The survey closes on March 6th.

Last Week In Sherwood Park:

• Strathcona County has reported a $12.1 million surplus for its 2024 operating budget. The surplus will be distributed across various reserve funds, including cultural development, capital reserves, and utility reserves. The County's utility operating surplus also totals $5.1 million, allocated to water, wastewater, and other utility reserves. Revenue exceeded expectations, with higher-than-anticipated contract revenue, facility usage, and government grants contributing to the surplus. Despite some project delays and savings, expenses were lower than expected, but upcoming US tariffs could potentially impact future projects and reserves.
  
  
• The County has appointed Stacy Fedechko as the new Chief Commissioner. With over 20 years of experience in the County, Fedechko has held leadership roles, including Associate Commissioner of Infrastructure and Planning Services. In her new role, she will guide municipal operations and advise Council on policy and legislative matters. Mayor Rod Frank thanked Jennifer Cannon for her interim leadership during the recruitment process.
  
  
• It was announced that Glen Allan Elementary School will receive a $125,000 grant from the Government of Alberta to support the construction of a new playground. This funding will supplement $125,000 raised by the school through various fundraising efforts. The new playground will feature improved accessibility and inclusivity, with ramps, accessible swings, and sensory elements. Construction is set to begin at the end of this school year, with the new playground ready for use in the fall.