FALL 2026 COMMUNITY NEWSLETTER
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
A look back at the projects and progress that shaped 2026.
KNEEHILL COUNTY COUNCIL
A message from Council Focused on what matters most
“ We are proud of our rural roots and committed to protecting them.
2025-2029 Council (F-B, L-R) Lowell Olson (Div 4), Laura-Lee Machell Cunningham (Div 5), Richard Hoppins (Div 6), Darcy Penner (Div 2), Lonnie McCook (Div 7), Jerry Wittstock (Div 3) and Merle Anderson (Div 1).
Council Highlights Direction and priorities in 2026
As Council, we believe in steady, practical leadership.
RESPONSIBLE BUDGETING
Our responsibility is to provide the essential services residents rely on—roads, infrastructure, governance and planning that support agriculture and rural life. These core services are the foundation of Kneehill County.
Council approved a $31.67-million Operating Budget and $1.78 million in 2026 projects. While assessment values increased, the total municipal tax levy remained unchanged.
Expectations placed on rural municipalities continue to grow. Costs have increased, provincial downloading has added pressure, and residents rightly expect reliable services and responsible taxation. During this term, our focus is clear: strengthening what matters most and ensuring the County’s long-term commitments remain practical and affordable.
Council established a Road Committee to tour County roads, review road conditions and concerns and make recommendations to Council.
Council adopted the 2026–2029 Strategic Plan on July 21, 2026. It will guide decisions about budgets, infrastructure, services and partnerships throughout this Council term. Our goal is not to expand government unnecessarily, but to maintain a strong foundation, deliver reliable services and ensure future generations inherit a County that is stable, responsible and prepared. -Kneehill County Council
Fall 2026
FOCUS ON COUNTY ROADS
SUPPORTING OUR COMMUNITIES Council consolidated five grant and sponsorship policies into one streamlined program, with $70,000 available for community capital projects, rural halls, events, sponsorships and youth initiatives. KOCHIA CONTROL Council approved a second roadside mowing cycle for 2026, with a measurable indicator to evaluate its effectiveness in controlling kochia. The program’s results, costs and delivery will be revisited in 2027.
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COUNCIL DIRECTION
Strategic Plan 2026-2029 A framework for decisions, investment and service delivery. The Strategic Plan sets Council’s priorities and direction for the current term. It guides decision-making, budgeting, infrastructure planning and services.
Vision
Mission
Values
A strong agricultural municipality where our hamlets and rural communities remain independent and built to last.
To deliver the services residents rely on, protect agricultural land and infrastructure, and support steady, practical growth.
• Integrity • Accountability • Transparency • Resilience • Tradition
Priorities Four pillars will guide Council’s decisions and investments over the current term.
Roads, bridges, utilities, facilities and long-term asset planning.
Agricultural viability, rural business, and responsible development.
Disciplined budgeting, sustainable taxation, and clear service levels.
Safe, connected communities, facilities, partnerships, and preparedness.
View the full Strategic Plan online: kneehillcounty.com/2250/Strategic-Plan.
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Fall 2026
COMMUNITY INVESTMENT
Investing in people and communities Celebrating local students and supporting the organizations, facilities, and events that help Kneehill County communities thrive. 2026 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
$2,000 each
2026 essay question: How could a rural municipality better support youth in building meaningful careers and staying connected to their community?
Shelby Piepke
Riette Breedt
ACUPUNCTURE - MACKEWAN UNIVERSITY
ANIMAL SCIENCE - UNIVERSITY OF SASKATCHEWAN
Active in figure skating, 4-H, and her local community, Shelby has maintained Honour Roll standing since grade seven.
Riette has served as student association president, contributed to 4-H, and completed dual-credit veterinary training.
In her essay: create career exploration, mentorship, and volunteer opportunities.
In her essay: use hands-on learning to build passions and local career connections.
STRENGTHENING OUR COMMUNITIES
2026 Community Grant Recipients Wimborne Community Hall
$20,000
Hall renovations
Linden Benev. Society for Seniors
$6,500 $5,000 $5,000
Ball-diamond rehabilitation
Fall 2026
$1,200
Trochu Arboretum
$1000
KidSport
$250
Cornhole tournament
$5,000
Health gala sponsorship
Ghost Pine Athletic Association
Kneehill District 4-H
Flower and photography show
Sound-system upgrade
Three Hills Health Care Auxiliary
$3,100
Show and sale catalogue
Roof repairs
Trochu & District Hall Development
APPROVED
50th Anniversary celebration
Roof repairs
Trochu Senior Citizens Association
Silver Willows Senior Society
$51,500
Three Hills & District Chamber
$200
Kids Carnival support
$4,100
Counterpunch Boxing Club
$150
Youth-focused event
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MESSAGE FROM THE CAO
The work behind the services As we enter the final months of 2026, I am proud to share some of the work that has taken place across Kneehill County over the past year. Our staff, Council, volunteers, community partners, and residents all play an important role in making this a vibrant and welcoming place to live, work and do business. This year has brought meaningful progress across the organization. From infrastructure projects and long-term planning to economic development, agricultural services, enforcement, utilities and community programs, County staff have worked diligently to deliver the services residents rely on every day. We recognize that every dollar spent is a dollar entrusted to us by our residents. Council’s Strategic Plan emphasizes responsible stewardship, transparency and intentional investments that support today’s service levels while preparing our communities for the future. This newsletter was developed in-house to give residents a clearer picture of how those resources are being invested, the priorities being advanced and the results being achieved. The following pages highlight the people, projects and day-to-day work behind the services we provide. As you read through this edition, I hope you gain a greater understanding of the work happening across Kneehill County—and of the partnerships that make it possible. Thank you for your continued trust, feedback and engagement.
“ Every dollar spent is a dollar entrusted to us by our residents.
Theresa Cochran Chief Administrative Officer
2026 at a glance
A snapshot of work delivered across Kneehill County. Read on for highlights from each department.
1,039
401 miles
8,400 km
1,088
Peace Officer patrol hours
of roads regravelled
of ditch mowing
Keiver’s Lake bookings
507
266
71
352
new weed-inspection cases
safety codes permits
development permits
road service requests
27,201 m
29
40
2.28 M t
of dust suppression
cemetery plots marked
playground inspections
estimated gravel source
Fall 2026
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PARKS
PARKS
A busy season for Kneehill County parks Parks crews maintained campgrounds, cemeteries, playgrounds, trails and public spaces throughout the County.
193
142
40
29
site visits across 45 mowing locations
infrastructure and vegetation work orders
playground safety inspections
cemetery plots marked
PROJECTS COMPLETED
Work throughout the County
DID YOU KNOW?
• Cemetery fence, signage and bench repairs
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• Torrington playground fire cleanup • Tree removal and maintenance at campgrounds and cemeteries • Picnic table repairs and restoration • Shale and gravel top-ups at parks and playgrounds
cemeteries maintained The County owns and maintains 13 cemeteries and has agreements to maintain four additional locations.
• Assistance with Admin parking lot upgrades • Ongoing stump grinding at Keiver’s Lake
Routine maintenance
A RECORD SEASON
Keiver’s Lake was busier than ever The campground recorded its busiest season since 2021.
1,088 2,042 bookings
nights stayed
Crews made 173 site visits for outhouse maintenance, garbage collection, watering and cleaning.
Mowing rotations Sites are generally visited every three to four weeks, with a goal of at least 4 cuts each year depending on growing conditions and community needs.
Other campgrounds Swalwell, Braconnier Dam, and Torrington campgrounds recorded 119 bookings and 203 nights stayed.
Fall 2026
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AGRICULTURAL SERVICES
Supporting agriculture in Kneehill County From roadside maintenance and weed control to field surveys and producer workshops, Agricultural Services had a busy year.
8,400 km 507
432
0
of ditch mowed in two rounds
bottles of liquid strychnine distributed
positive clubroot fields found
new rural and urban weed cases
MONITORING THE LAND
Surveys and field work UPCOMING EVENTS
33
37
fields inspected for clubroot, no positive fields found
grasshopper survey sites; no significant infestations
14
12
cereal fields sampled, results submitted to province
canola fields planned for post-harvest sampling
JAN. 14 Ladies Livestock Lessons Madden and W.A. Ranches at UCalgary
3
1
FEB. 4 Ranching Opportunities Acme Hall
Bertha armyworm traps monitored for six weeks
European corn borer trap location established
Save the Date NOV. 12 Succession Planning Workshop Three Hills Community Hall
DID YOU KNOW?
Environmental Farm Plans WEED CONTROL: Common yellow tansy control was completed at Dry Island Buffalo Jump under contract with Alberta Forestry and Parks.
Kneehill County has a technician who can help producers create, review, or complete an Environmental Farm Plan.
NATURAL BIO CONTROL: Leafy Spurge beetles supplied by AISC were released in an environmentally sensitive area.
Weed Act changes
STRYCHNINE: Supplier delays limited supplies. 2027 sales begin February 1. Required training and availability updates will continue. Emergency Use Registration expires Nov 1, 2027.
Knapweeds moved from prohibited noxious to noxious. Perennial sow-thistle and creeping bellflower were removed from the noxious list, though both remain invasive.
DITCH MOWING: Residents can contact the County to request mowing along an unmaintained road.
Weed inspection letters
ASB NEWSLETTER: Sign up for our monthly Ag Connection e-newsletter to stay in the know on Kneehill Ag.
Fall 2026
Landowners with observed noxious weeds received information about the weed and available control methods.
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TRANSPORTATION
Road work that supports rural life From gravel and dust suppression to major bridge and culvert work, Transportation crews continue improving the roads residents rely on.
401 miles 27.2 km
352
20+ years
of County roads regravelled
service requests
of gravel secured at Bergen
of residential dust suppression
MAJOR PROJECTS
Work completed and underway COMPLETED
Bergen Gravel Pit purchase The purchase secures an estimated 20+ year gravel supply for County road maintenance. COMPLETED
Linden overlay project A seven-mile overlay east of Linden was completed over the summer. COMPLETED
Bridge and culvert improvements BF 78559 was replaced with a bridge-sized culvert. Liners were installed at BF 72256 and BF 70576 to reduce traffic impacts and ground disturbance, with an additional culvert bored at BF 70576 to maintain water flow. 50% COMPLETE
Gravel purchase program Third-party gravel is being delivered to the Redland and Grainger stockpiles through the program approved in the 2026 budget.
Fall 2026
DID YOU KNOW?
A large rural network
1980 km of gravel roads
10
grader divisions averaging approx. 193 km each
500 km of dirt trails
212
bridge structures
BRIDGE ASSETS
Bigger than it sounds Did you know? Culverts with a diameter of 1.5 metres or greater are classified and maintained as bridge assets.
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INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT
Securing the gravel that keeps Kneehill moving A long-term, reliable supply for the County’s rural road network.
160
2.28 M
20+
�7.2 M
acre site at Bergen
tonnes estimated gravel
years of supply
from the roads reserve
At the April 28, 2026, Council meeting, Kneehill County Council approved the purchase of the Bergen Gravel Pit, located in Mountain View County, to help secure a long-term, reliable source of gravel for the County’s road network. The 160-acre site contains an estimated 2.28 million tonnes of gravel—enough to support the County’s annual regravelling program for over 20 years.
Administration estimates that owning and operating the pit will result in significant long-term savings compared to purchasing gravel from third-party suppliers. The addition of the Bergen Pit allows the County to draw from multiple gravel sources, helping extend the life of existing reserves and improve operational flexibility across the region.
Kneehill County maintains over 1,200 miles of rural roads and uses roughly 125,000 tonnes of gravel each year to maintain safe driving conditions. With existing reserves at the Torrington Pit expected to last only about five more years, Council identified the need to secure an additional gravel source to ensure continuity of service. “The purchase of the Bergen Pit is about planning ahead,” said Kneehill County’s CAO Theresa Cochran. “Gravel is essential to maintaining our road network, and securing a long-term supply helps us manage costs and maintain service levels for our residents.” The Bergen Pit was identified as the preferred option following a regional gravel investigation and subsequent testing, which confirmed both the quality and quantity of the resource. As an active, permitted pit, it was available to use immediately following acquisition. Council authorized funding of $7.2 million from the Roads Reserve for the purchase and associated permitting costs. 9
Gravel crushing at the Bergen Pit.
Fall 2026
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
Planning for what comes next Permits, approvals and long-range planning help balance new opportunities with Kneehill County’s rural character.
71
13
6
266
development permits
subdivision applications
redesignations completed
safety code permits issued
2025 total: 74
2025 approvals: 21
2025 total: 3
2025 total: 271
DID YOU KNOW?
Farm-Gate Sales
Farm-gate sales require a development permit. Safety Codes permits may also be required, along with provincial approval when a property is adjacent to a highway.
Shop + House= Shouse
A shouse combines a shop with attached living quarters. Residential use brings additional Safety Codes requirements, including fire separation. A second residence may require Municipal Planning Commission approval.
Data Centres
Cryptocurrency and data-centre proposals require redesignation, which is a Council decision, a public hearing—and if the redesignation succeeds—Municipal Planning Commission approval of the development permit.
LAND USE BYLAW REVIEW Kneehill County is in the process of reviewing the Land Use Bylaw, which guides where and how development can occur. Working groups of members-at-large and Council are currently reviewing different sections of the bylaw to provide recommendations. YOUR KNEEHILL LUB PHOTO CONTEST Share photos of the places, landscapes, and features that make Kneehill County home! • General and youth categories • Upload using the online form • Win a local gift basket! • Deadline: December 15, 2027 FULL CONTEST RULES AVAILABLE AT KNEEHILLCOUNTY.COM
Fall 2026
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PROTECTIVE SERVICES
Protecting our communities From proactive patrols and bylaw enforcement to fire prevention and regional emergency management, Protective Services works with local and regional partners to help keep Kneehill County safe.
1,039
128
112
29
patrol hours
traffic warnings
traffic violation tickets
assists to Fire and RCMP
REGIONAL PREPAREDNESS
Emergency response put to the test Kneehill County hosted a two-day functional emergency management exercise using a simulated train derailment to test regional coordination, communication and decision-making. The six KREMA municipalities practised alongside CN Rail, RCMP, utility companies, local fire departments and provincial emergency-management partners. Kneehill County is part of the Kneehill Regional Emergency Management Agency (KREMA) with Acme, Carbon, Linden, Trochu, and Three Hills.
55+
30+
MUNICIPAL ENFORCEMENT
municipal staff participated
external partner representatives
Visible patrols where they matter FIRE SERVICES
Bylaw & Animal Control
Suspicious Activity
8
10
7
3
10
7
other bylaw files and calls
assists to County depts.
animal control files unsightly properties
suspicious vehicle calls suspicious person calls
Torrington Fire Department
39 calls for service
• 19 Medical Responses • 8 Alarms • 6 Outside Fires • 2 Structure Fires • 2 Motor Vehicle Collisions • 2 Other
Fire safety and prevention Protective Services assisted fire departments, RCMP and other County departments and participated in community events across Kneehill County.
11
17
6
fire occupancy inspections
fire investigations Fall 2026
UTILITIES
Providing safe, potable water From daily testing and system operations to infrastructure improvements, Utilities delivers reliable water and wastewater services.
900+ km
295,926 m3 40,387 m3 732
of distribution pipeline
water distributed (2025)
DID YOU KNOW?
water dispensed at bulk water stations (2025)
MAJOR PROJECTS
Utility infrastructure
Work completed and underway
11
UPCOMING PROJECT
surface water systems
2
groundwater systems
9
reservoirs and pump houses
bacteriological samples tested
Bulk fill station modernization Improvements are planned for all six bulk fill stations in 2027. UPCOMING PROJECT
Wimborne fluoride reduction Natural fluoride reduction through filtration is planned for 2027. COMPLETED PROJECT
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Torrington sewer main and 1st Avenue improvements
County-operated wastewater lagoons
Aging sanitary sewer infrastructure was rehabilitated, along with road, curb, gutter and pavement improvements in 2026.
RESIDENT REMINDER
Protect your water meter this winter As colder weather sets in, please check your meter and protective equipment to prevent freezing. 1
2
3
Choose a frost-free location Make sure the meter is installed where it is protected from freezing temperatures.
Inspect the protection Confirm that heat tape, insulation tape and other insulation materials are in good working condition.
Check the power source Ensure powered protective equipment is safely connected to a reliable source.
USER RESPONSIBILITY Users are responsible for the care and protection of their water meter. If a meter freezes, the customer is responsible for the replacement cost. For questions, concerns, and more information, call Kneehill County at 403-443-5541.
Fall 2026
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Building a stronger local economy Helping local businesses, ag producers, and communities remain successful, sustainable, and ready for the future.
700+
96
27
2026-28
businesses responded to the BREWD survey
BREWD responses from Kneehill County
BREWD projects identified
BREWD project implementation period
FROM FEEDBACK TO ACTION
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
BREWD projects strengthening Kneehill County
What is it?
The Business Retention, Expansion and Workforce Development (BREWD) Survey asked existing businesses what they need to grow, adapt, and stay rooted in their communities. Strategy work is complete and implementation is underway.
Economic development helps support local jobs, encourages people to shop and do business locally, and builds a more resilient community for the future. FREE BUSINESS SUPPORT
Help for your business
Local supply chains
Business support
Identifying gaps in agriculture and manufacturing and helping businesses source more goods and services closer to home.
Connecting businesses with one-on-one advice, resources, funding referrals, and promotional assistance.
Students and industry
Dual-credit programs
• Funding information and referrals
Helping students learn about career opportunities available in their own communities.
Building pathways into agriculture, trades, health care and business while students are still in high school.
• A professional promotional video
The Regional Business Support Network offers: • One-on-one business advice • Planning and marketing support
FOCUS ON TOURISM
Explore Kneehill The new visitor map will soon be available at local businesses, followed by a complete brochure featuring itineraries and things to see and do across Kneehill County. Coming soon!
• Blog and social media promotion Contact: economic.development@ kneehillcounty.com
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS
Sharing local business stories Through the Regional Business Support Network, participating businesses can receive a complimentary professional video, featured blog and targeted social media promotion. See the latest spotlights: kneehillcounty.com/2550/Support-Local
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Fall 2026
CLOSER THAN YOU THINK
local attractions, outdoor destinations, Explore Kneehill Discover and unexpected places throughout Kneehill County.
SUPPORT LOCAL ALONG THE WAY
Eat, shop and explore close to home. Scan the QR code to plan your next adventure! Fall 2026
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STAY CONNECTED
County services at your fingertips Sign up for timely updates, manage your County accounts online and receive the latest Ag and County news directly in your inbox. NOTIFY ME
Important updates, delivered to you Receive Kneehill County notices by text or email. Choose the categories that matter to you and stay informed without having to search for updates. Road Closures
Fire Bans
Water Notices
County News
Public Hearings
Job Postings
Events
Sign up at kneehillcounty.com/list.aspx
KNEEHILL CONNECT
AG CONNECTION
Your virtual County office
Rural news, straight to your inbox
Kneehill Connect lets you access County account services online, anytime—without being tied to office hours.
Pay bills
View balances
Make convenient online payments
Check your account information
Tax Certificates
Available 24/7
• Funding Programs
Submit requests online
Available when it works for you
• Important agriculture updates
What you’ll need 1
Your latest tax bill, invoice, or accounts receivable statement.
2
Your Customer ID, Account Number or Roll Number.
3
An active email address.
Never miss an edition of Kneehill County’s agricultural e-newsletter.
• Upcoming workshops and events • Resources for farms and acreages Sign up at: kneehillcounty.com/2475/Ag-News
Full set-up instructions are available online: kneehillcounty.com/2500/Kneehill-Connect CREDIT CARD PAYMENTS
A 2.5% convenience fee applies to all credit card transactions, including property taxes. Cheque, cash, online banking and pre-authorized payments do not incur this fee.
Fall 2026
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RESIDENTIAL RECYCLING
More ways to recycle As of October 1, recycling options have expanded across Kneehill County as part of Alberta’s transition to Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). HOW YOU ACCESS RECYCLING DEPENDS ON WHERE YOU LIVE
Curbside Recycling in Kneehill County Hamlets Residential properties in Huxley, Sunnyslope, Swalwell, Torrington, and Wimborne now have curbside recycling collected every other Monday. Please place recyclables loose in your cart (no black bags) and have it ready for collection by 7 am.
Rural Recycling at Kneehill County Transfer Sites Rural residents can bring recyclables to any Kneehill County transfer site.
Accepted Materials Both curbside carts and County transfer sites accept the same household packaging and paper materials. See the guide below, or visit kneehillcounty.com/2557/Residential-Recycling for more information.
Fall 2026
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