The Stony Plain Town council held a significant meeting on February 24, 2025, addressing key issues ranging from leadership appointments too strategic planning and community advancement. Councillor Pat Hansard was appointed as Deputy Mayor, and several vital bylaws were approved, setting the town’s strategic direction for the coming years. The council also received updates on the Housing Accelerator Fund and snow and ice control measures, demonstrating a commitment to both long-term planning and immediate community needs.

Councillor Pat Hansard Appointed as Deputy Mayor

In a crucial leadership decision, Councillor Pat hansard was appointed as Deputy Mayor, effective February 24, 2025, and serving until June 30, 2025.This appointment ensures continuity and stability in the town’s leadership. The Deputy Mayor plays a vital role, stepping in to act as Mayor in the absence or incapacity of the Mayor. This position is rotated among council members, providing diverse leadership experience within the council.

The role of Deputy mayor is essential for maintaining smooth governance. As stated in the council meeting,the Deputy Mayor is a member of council who is appointed by Council to act as mayor in the absence or incapacity of the Mayor. this ensures that the town’s operations continue without interruption, even when the Mayor is unavailable.

Key Bylaws Approved by Council

The council addressed several critically critically important bylaws,streamlining processes and aligning with current legislation. These bylaws cover a range of essential municipal functions, from tax administration to land use and policing.

Tax Penalty and Tax Installment Payment Plan (TIPP) Bylaw

Bylaw 2713/TAX/25, concerning the Tax Penalty and Tax Installment Payment Plan (TIPP), received first, second, and third readings. This bylaw establishes the due date for annual property taxes and outlines the penalties for unpaid property taxes. The updated bylaw consolidates the TIPP Bylaw and the property Tax Penalty Bylaw into a single, cohesive document, incorporating relevant updates to align with current legislation. This consolidation aims to improve clarity and efficiency in tax administration.

According to the council, the bylaw establishes the due date for annual property taxes, and the penalty that will be imposed to accounts with unpaid property tax. This ensures that property owners are aware of thier obligations and the consequences of non-payment, while also providing a structured framework for tax collection.

Assessor appointed as Designated Officer Bylaw

Bylaw 2714/APP/25, regarding the Assessor as a Designated Officer, also received first, second, and third readings.This update aligns with current sections of the Municipal Government act (MGA).The bylaw formally establishes the Assessor as a Designated Officer, outlining the duties associated with this role as per legislation. This ensures that the Assessor’s responsibilities are clearly defined and in compliance with provincial regulations.

The purpose of this bylaw is to establish the Assessor as a Designated Officer and duties associated as per legislation. This clarification is crucial for maintaining accurate property assessments and ensuring fair taxation practices within the municipality.

Fairways North Stage 3 – Land Use Bylaw Amendment

Bylaw 2717/LUO/25, addressing the Fairways North Stage 3 Land Use Bylaw amendment, received second and third readings following a public hearing. This amendment facilitates the continued development of the Fairways North neighborhood, focusing on low and medium-density residential areas, park and open space, trail connectivity, and an efficient road network. The approval of this bylaw paves the way for further development in Fairways North, enhancing the community’s residential and recreational offerings.

The amendment facilitates the continued development of the Fairways North neighbourhood, providing low and medium density residential areas, park and open space, trail connectivity, and an efficient road network. This balanced approach to development aims to create a vibrant and livable community for residents.

Policing Committee Bylaw

Council gave second and third reading to Bylaw 2718/G/25 to establish a Policing Committee for Stony Plain, as required by recent provincial legislation. The committee will oversee local policing matters, develop community safety plans, and represent public concerns to the RCMP. Recruitment for committee members is expected to begin in March, with appointments in May. The creation of this committee underscores the town’s commitment to community safety and effective policing.

The committee will oversee local policing matters, develop community safety plans, and represent public concerns to the RCMP. This direct engagement with the community will help ensure that policing strategies are aligned with the needs and concerns of Stony Plain residents.

Appointments to the 2025 Assessment Review Board

The council also appointed members to the 2025 Assessment review Board. Stony Plain collaborates with the capital Region Assessment Services Commission (CRASC) for property assessment reviews. Panelists and clerks require training to serve on these boards.The boards are divided into two types: the Local Assessment Review Board (LARB) for smaller residential properties and the Composite Assessment Review Board (CARB) for larger residential and non-residential properties. Bylaw 2623/AS/19 mandates that Council appoint panelists, LARB and CARB Chairs, and a Clerk annually. For 2025, gerryl Amorin has been appointed as Clerk, Raymond Ralph as Chair, and a panel including Darlene Chartrand, Sheryl Exley, Tina Groszko, Richard Knowles, Marcel LeBlanc, and Raymond Ralph will handle assessment appeals.

Snow and Ice Control Update

An update on the 2025 mid-season snow and ice control efforts was presented to the council. The Town of Stony Plain Public Works teams are responsible for managing snow and ice control on Town-owned roads, public walkways, and parking facilities, in accordance with Council Policy C-PW-042. The administration provided this update to keep the council informed on the ongoing efforts to maintain safe conditions during the winter months.

housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) Action Plan Update

The council received an update on the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) Action Plan. the HAF is a federal government incentive program designed to encourage initiatives that increase housing supply and support the development of complete, affordable, inclusive, equitable, and diverse communities. Stony Plain applied for and was approved by the Canadian Mortgage and Housing corporation (CMHC) in the first

Stony Plain’s Strategic Shift: A Deep Dive into Council Decisions and Community Impact

Did you know that a seemingly routine town council meeting can have far-reaching consequences for community development and long-term planning? Let’s delve into the recent Stony plain council meeting and uncover its significance with expert insights from [Expert Name], a seasoned municipal governance consultant.

World-Today-News.com: [expert Name], welcome. The Stony Plain Town Council’s February 2025 meeting saw meaningful decisions regarding strategic planning, leadership appointments, and key bylaw approvals. Can you highlight the most impactful decisions made during this meeting?

[Expert Name]: The Stony Plain council meeting was indeed pivotal. Several decisions impacted the town’s immediate future and its long-term trajectory. the appointment of Councillor Pat Hansard as Deputy Mayor is crucial for leadership continuity and stability.This ensures consistent governance, especially during the Mayor’s absence. Furthermore, the approval of the 2025-2028 Strategic Plan provides a roadmap for the town’s development, addressing critical areas like infrastructure, community services, and economic growth. several key bylaw approvals related to taxation, land use, and policing will directly shape the daily lives of Stony Plain residents.

World-Today-News.com: let’s address the bylaw approvals. The Tax Penalty and tax Installment Payment Plan (TIPP) bylaw, as an example, streamlined tax administration and penalty structures. What’s the broader significance of this change for taxpayers?

[Expert Name]: The consolidation of the TIPP Bylaw and the property tax penalty bylaw is a positive step towards improving clarity and efficiency in tax collection. For taxpayers, this means better understanding of their obligations and payment processes. The updated bylaw ensures transparency regarding due dates and penalties, minimizing confusion and potential disputes. A simplified system ultimately fosters better compliance and community engagement with municipal finance.

world-Today-News.com: Another significant bylaw amendment involved the Fairways North Stage 3 development. What impact will this have on the community?

[Expert Name]: The Fairways North Stage 3 Land Use Bylaw amendment is a key step in shaping Stony Plain’s future. The focus on low and medium-density residential areas, balanced with parkland and efficient infrastructure, reflects a forward-thinking approach to urban planning. This model aims to create a vibrant, livable community for residents while respecting the natural environment. It demonstrates careful consideration for long-term sustainability and community wellness.The emphasis on trail connectivity also prioritizes resident well-being and enhances a sense of community.

World-Today-News.com: The establishment of a Policing Committee is noteworthy. How will this body impact public safety and community engagement?

[Expert Name]: The establishment of a dedicated Policing Committee clearly shows Stony Plain’s commitment to proactive community safety.This committee will play a significant role in bridging the gap between law enforcement and residents. By overseeing local policing matters, developing community safety plans, and directly representing public concerns to the RCMP, the committee ensures enhanced communication and responsiveness to community needs. This direct engagement fosters trust and helps build a safer, more collaborative environment.

World-Today-News.com: updates were provided on the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) Action Plan. What role does this programme play in addressing housing challenges?

[Expert Name]: The Housing Accelerator Fund is a vital component of stony Plain’s efforts to address housing challenges. The HAF’s focus on increasing affordable housing supply is particularly important. By participating in this federal program, Stony Plain is proactively working towards creating more inclusive and diverse housing options for its residents.efficient and innovative housing solutions are key to attracting and retaining a skilled, diverse workforce, leading to sustainable economic growth.

World-Today-News.com: Thank you, [Expert Name], for shedding light on these important decisions. What are your key takeaways for readers, considering the long-term implications of these actions?

[Expert Name]: The Stony Plain Council demonstrated a clear commitment to long-term planning, community development, and effective governance. The approval of the strategic plan, the appointment of the Deputy Mayor, and the thoughtful consideration of bylaws all reflect a proactive approach to addressing pressing municipal issues. This creates the foundations for a thriving, prosperous, and safe community for years to come. I encourage readers to stay informed about their local government and participate actively in shaping their community’s future. Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below, or share this insightful review with your network.