Whitecourt Town Council Update - September 12, 2023

Whitecourt has applied for Disaster Recovery Program (DRP) funding as a result of flooding experienced in June 2023. An estimated $2.4 million in infrastructure damages and related response costs were experienced; this estimate does not include the damages of private residences or businesses. If the application is approved, those Whitecourt property owners impacted by the incident can apply to the program for funding within DRP. Whitecourt will inform the community when the Province has made a decision on its application.

Whitecourt will be applying to the Forest Resources Association of Alberta for funding for a 2-year FireSmart Coordinator contract position. This new position will be responsible for coordinating FireSmart projects (such as the FireSmart Home Assessment program and vegetation management projects), as well as building awareness and public engagement on FireSmart principles to reduce wildfire risk in the region.

National Coaches Appreciation Week is September 16-24, 2023. Community members are encouraged to submit nominations for local coaches as part of the recognition event.

Council has awarded Pembina West Co-Op with the contract to provide fuels services for Whitecourt fleet for a period of 5 years starting January 1, 2024.

Council has awarded the Water System Upgrades Access Road project to Westcore Contracting. The project includes construction of an access road to allow vehicle access to up to 1.5 kilometres of water system valves, hydrants, and piping east of Dahl Drive.

Concrete Crushers Inc. has been awarded the contract for concrete crushing. Since 2018, the Town has collected concrete debris for recycling, and once crushed the material will be used for the Water System Upgrades Road Access, and other municipal improvements.

Council will host a Council Committee Appreciation Reception on November 1 for all members that serve on municipal boards and committees.

Council has scheduled the 2024 Planning Session for January 25-27, 2024.