City Hall Mural Approved, Taxpayers to Fund Portion of Sunset Way Paving
Lacombe City Council approved a new Indigenous-themed mural for the exterior of City Hall and voted to contribute $13,133 to pave Sunset Way. The mural passed with a 6-1 vote, Mayor Grant Creasey opposed. The Sunset Way paving contribution passed 4-3, with Councillors Thalia Hibbs, Scott Dallas, and Cora Hoekstra voting no.
City Hall Mural to Feature Indigenous Theme
An Indigenous-themed mural, titled “Eyes of The Wisdom,” will be installed on the exterior south wall of Council Chambers. The design, presented by Dr. Laurel Halladay from the Lacombe Art Collection Committee, depicts a pre-settler landscape with an ethereal bison and elder, highlighting Indigenous traveling routes and cultural history. It aims to revitalize City Hall's appearance and increase Indigenous representation in the city's art collection. Funding will come from the existing Percent For Art budget.
City to Contribute to Sunset Way Paving
Council voted to contribute $13,133 towards paving Sunset Way. This decision comes after a previous 2022 approval for the paving to be done entirely at the proponent's cost. Administration had recommended either no contribution or a $4,000 contribution based on the City's Local Improvement Tax Policy. Councillors Hibbs, Dallas, and Hoekstra opposed the $13,133 contribution. The City also chose to retain ownership of an adjacent parcel, directing administration to redesignate it for utility purposes rather than selling it.
Birth Place Forest Phasing Revised After Public Input
Council reconsidered and amended the phasing plan for the Birth Place Forest. Following public feedback from resident Suzan King at the June 23rd Open Forum, Council approved designating the area northeast of Bruns Pond (Lot 1R, Block 6) as Phase II. This removes the previously approved westward expansion into Lincoln Park. The change aims to address community concerns about the use of Lincoln Park for unstructured play.
Popow’s Park Upgrades Approved
Upgrades to Popow's Park were approved as part of the Kinsmen Club's 75th Anniversary project. The plans include new pathways and a gazebo. The City will assume ownership and ongoing maintenance of these improvements upon completion. Administration will now work with the Kinsmen Committee on project planning and develop a sponsorship agreement.
Historic Designation for Owen Residence
Council gave first reading to Bylaw 532, initiating the process to designate the Owen Residence (5210 53rd Street) as a Municipal Historic Resource. The 1922 home is valued for its National Folk style and association with prominent local figures. A Notice of Intent to designate will be issued to the property owners.
Tax Bylaw Amendment for Clarity
Bylaw 379.4, an amendment to the Tax Penalty and Payment Bylaw, received its first reading. The amendment will change fixed tax payment deadlines to “the last business day of the month.” This aims to prevent confusion and incorrect penalties when deadlines fall on weekends or holidays.
Encroachment Agreements Authorized
Council granted the Chief Administrative Officer authority to enter into encroachment agreements for minor encroachments (less than 1.0 meter) on odd-numbered homes between #3 and #29 Willow Crescent. Councillor Dallas opposed this motion.
Future Discussion on Truck Traffic
Councillor Hibbs filed a Notice of Motion to schedule a committee meeting. The purpose is to discuss potential restrictions on heavy truck traffic on 50th Avenue between C&E Trail and Highway 2A, aiming to encourage greater use of the 34th Street bypass. This will guide a future report from administration.