Reeve’s Message
As the vibrant colours of fall set in, we would like to take a moment to extend a heartfelt thank you to our seasonal staff for their hard work and dedication throughout the summer months. Your efforts have made a lasting impact and we couldn’t do it without you!
Looking ahead, our crews are already preparing for winter, which—believe it or not—will be here sooner than we think! From ensuring roadways are ready for the snow to coordinating maintenance on essential equipment, we’re gearing up to keep our County safe and running smoothly during the colder months.
On the administrative side, our Municipal Development Plan (MDP) review is nearing completion, with a Public Hearing scheduled for Tuesday, November 26, at 1:00 pm. (Venue to be determined). The review has provided a critical opportunity for residents to shape the future of our community and we look forward to finalizing the document soon.
Additionally, the budget process for the upcoming year is underway. We encourage everyone to tune in to our upcoming Council meetings to stay informed as Council addresses the County’s priorities for the 2025 budget year.
Council also continues to engage in meaningful discussions with the Province regarding the renewable energy sector and how municipalities like ours can play a key role in the process. Thank you to all our residents for your ongoing support and participation.
We’re committed to keeping you informed as we move through these exciting and important initiatives.
-Reeve Kenneth King
Bush Buggy Replacements
August 20, 2024: With both apparatuses scheduled for replacement, Council approved Type 6 Bush Buggies (off-road firefighting vehicles) for Carbon and Three Hills Fire Departments, at a cost of $390,000 each in the 2025 budget, with funds to come from the Capital Equipment Reserve. The Type 6 Bush Buggy has increased tank capacity for water transport and supports greater weight, allowing for improved fire services.
Kneehill County Solid Waste Services
August 20, 2024: As Kneehill County’s Class 3 landfill in Torrington is nearing capacity, administration presented Council with various options to continue providing solid waste services to Kneehill County residents, including a new Class 3 landfill, closing the landfill, and moving the County’s focus to recycling instead of disposal. Following the presentation, Council directed administration to investigate the cost of continuing solid waste services in the County. Meanwhile, to extend the life of the landfill site, use of the Torrington landfill will be restricted to Kneehill County ratepayers/residents only, effective Jan 1, 2025.
GFOA Distinguished Budget Award
September 10, 2024: Council congratulated Kneehill County staff for winning the 2024 Government Finance Officer’s Association (GFOA) Distinguished Budget Award for excellence in municipal budget preparation. Kneehill County has won this award every year since 2021.
Hamlet of Huxley Wastewater
September 24, 2024: In March 2024, MPE completed a study on the Huxley Wastewater system, offering recommendations to improve its operation. Kneehill County presented the findings at a community engagement session in Huxley on June 26, followed by a questionnaire distributed to residents regarding septic tank conditions and the potential for a County coordinated septic tank pumping program. Based on the study and community engagement, Council directed administration to establish a new service in Huxley, coordinating septic tank pumping every two years starting in 2025, using a cost-recovery model.
Reminder:
Taxes are due October 31, 2024 View page 10 for NEW payment options.
Missed a Council meeting?
Council highlights are posted on Kneehill County’s website and social media following each Council meeting. These highlights give a broad overview of Council decisions, including links to more information and the corresponding YouTube video.
Council Contacts
Division 7
Reeve Kenneth King
Phone: 403-443-0285
Email: kenneth.king@kneehillcounty.com
Division 3
Deputy Reeve Jerry Wittstock
Phone: 403-312-6196
Email: jerry.wittstock@kneehillcounty.com
Division 1
Councillor Faye McGhee
Phone: 403-436-1611
Email: faye.mcghee@kneehillcounty.com
Division 2
Councilllor Debbie Penner
Phone: 403-818-3108
Email: debbie.penner@kneehillcounty.com
Division 4
Councillor Carrie Fobes
Phone:403-588-4624
Email: carrie.fobes@kneehillcounty.com
Division 5
Councillor Laura-Lee Machell-Cunningham
Phone: 403-443-0752
Email: lauralee.machell-cunningham @kneehillcounty.com
Division 6
Councillor Wade Christie
Phone: 403-588-1992
Email: wade.christie@kneehillcounty.com
Connect with us!
UPCOMING:
Council Meetings
• October 22
(Organizational Meeting)
• November 12 & 26
• December 10 Committee of the Whole Meetings
• October 15
• November 19
Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: @kneehillcounty, and tune in to our YouTube channel to watch Council meetings live!
Regional Partnership supports Physician Services
In a collaborative effort to ensure the long-term sustainability of healthcare services in the region, Kneehill County and the urban municipalities of Three Hills, Trochu, Acme, and Linden are proud to announce the launch of a three-year rent stabilization program for the Kneehill Medical Clinic. This initiative, which has been developed in partnership with local physicians, aims to address the financial challenges facing medical professionals in the area.
The program, approved by all participating municipalities, will see a combined annual contribution of $90,000 to cover the base rent of the Kneehill Medical Clinic. Alleviating the cost of rent helps lower the total overhead costs of running the Clinic, enhancing the Clinic’s ability to attract and retain physicians, which is critical for maintaining robust healthcare services in the region.
Each municipality’s contribution to the program has been calculated using a formula based on 70% population and 30% assessment, resulting in the following annual commitments:
• Acme: $4,306
• Kneehill County: $50,807
• Linden: $5,368
• Three Hills: $22,589
• Trochu: $6,930
The joint initiative is a testament to the region’s commitment to ensuring access to quality healthcare for all residents. The program’s specific goals include increasing the number of physicians at the Clinic, expanding the patient panel by 1,000 patients, and supporting the ongoing staffing of emergency and hospital operations at the Three Hills Hospital.
The Three Hills Hospital is a critical component of the region’s healthcare infrastructure, providing essential medical services and contributing to the area’s economic vitality. By supporting the Kneehill Medical Clinic through this rent stabilization program, the
Fire Truck Reveal
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municipalities and physicians believe they can enhance the hospital’s sustainability and its ability to serve the community. The program, which will replace the current incentive structure for new physicians, will be subject to an annual review to assess its effectiveness. All participating municipalities have confirmed their commitment, and the Kneehill Medical Clinic has expressed its support and willingness to proceed under the terms of the new agreement.
The collaboration between the municipalities and local physicians represents a significant step forward in securing the future of healthcare services in Kneehill County and its urban centers.
On September 19, 2024, Kneehill County and the Town of Three Hills came together to celebrate the delivery of a brand new Fire Engine, serving both Town and County residents. This cutting-edge engine, equipped with a high/low-pressure pump and a 4,000-litre water tank, replaces two older engines, enhancing firefighting capabilities across the area.
Families enjoyed free hot dogs and burgers at the event while getting an up-close look at the impressive new truck. It was a great evening filled with fun, food, and a chance to connect with local firefighters.
Thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate this important investment in our community’s safety!
Pictured
to R): Village of Acme Mayor Bruce McLeod, Kneehill County Reeve Kenneth King, Dr. Olga Efimova, Dr. Anish Chari, Dr. Luke Savage, Village of Linden Mayor Kelly Klassen, Town of Trochu Mayor Barry Kletke, Dr. Erin Calhoun, Dr. Adina McBain, Town of Three Hills Deputy Mayor Byrne Lammle.
Winter Water Meter Care
As the chill of winter settles in, Kneehill County’s Utility Department wants to remind all water system users about the importance of safeguarding their water meter equipment.
User Responsibility
The responsibility for the care and protection of the water meter rests with the user. In the unfortunate event of a water meter freezing, the associated replacement cost will be borne by the customer.
Prevent Freezing
Take proactive measures to ensure your water meter is shielded from freezing temperatures. Here are some tips:
• Make sure your water meter is installed in a frost-free location.
• Check that any protective measures in place, such as heat tape, insulation tape, or other insulation methods, are in good working condition.
• Ensure that these protective measures are connected to a safe and reliable power source to maintain their effectiveness.
For more winter water tips and information, please call Kneehill County 403-443-5541.
Congrats to the Calhouns, 2024’s Stampede Farm Family
Calhoun Family – Calhoun Cattle Co. Ltd. – Kneehill County
In 1980, Rod and Carol Calhoun took a chance. They sold their farm in Ontario, said goodbye to their family and came out west with their one-year-old son, Jason, with the hope of growing a custom feeding operation in Alberta. “I still vividly remember driving up to the farm with only bare land and two grain bins,” recalls Carol, “and Rod saying this is where we’d make our new start.” From there the 2024 BMO Farm Family from Kneehill County took their drawing plans and built their custom feedlot from scratch. Today, Calhoun Cattle Co. Ltd. – operated by Rod and Carol and their son, Jason, and his wife, Erin – is a first-rate custom feedlot that provides exceptional care for their clients’ cattle and works to break the negative stigmas often associated with feedlot production.
Rod grew up on a generational beef farm in Ontario, where his family originally homesteaded in the late 1800s. “[However], in 1980, it was pretty obvious that the beef industry was shifting fast towards Alberta,” Rod recalls. “Plus, at that time in Ontario, there wasn’t a market for [custom feeding].” Even Rod’s father, Willard, had the foresight that Alberta held promise for the beef industry, although he was never able to act on it. When Rod and Carol made the decision to move to Alberta, his parents were 100 per cent supportive, providing their help, guidance and frequent visits out west to help on the farm.
Rod and Carol’s son, Jason was keen about the operation from an early age. “From the time Jason was five, he was by his father’s side showing a great interest in the cattle feeding business,” Carol remembers. Today, Jason and Erin, along with their three children — Cade, Colson and Anistyn — are full partners in Calhoun Cattle Company. “It makes us proud that Jason has taken over [what we’ve started from scratch] and that even his boys are showing pride in the business and agriculture,” Rod reflects. “What has started with just Carol and I, is now three generations.” Although their daughter, Jennifer, and her husband, Travis, and their family aren’t involved in the day-to-day aspects, they still show great pride and interest in the operation.
What started as a custom feedlot with a capacity of 1,800 cattle, has now expanded to a 6,000 head capacity feedlot. As always, the focus remains on exceptional care for the resident cattle. “We look at [our feedlot] as a hotel for cattle,” explains Jason. “We want [our clients] to leave proud with where their cattle have been placed. The personal care aspects, especially regarding cleanliness and good equipment, are super important to us and the type of service we provide.”
Although, Calhoun Cattle Co. now has six employees, you will always find a Calhoun family member out in the feedlot. “From 1980 on, there has never been a day that one of us isn’t in the feedlot,” states Carol. Even after all these years, the Calhouns still have second or third generation clients who have been with them from the start, which is one of their biggest sources of pride.
Taking care of the cattle and the environment with the highest standards is of utmost importance to the Calhouns. “We are very
intensive with software to gather data in order to make data-based decisions,” explains Jason. “Our entire yard is integrated, everything from accounting to feed trucks to health management.” They also work closely with nutritionists and veterinarians to help manage nutrition and health, as well as have a detailed Environmental Farm Plan in place, that includes unique features such as two catch basins to help with waste management. They also farm 2,800 acres of canola for cash crops, as well as soft white wheat and barley for roughage and silage.
Over the years, Jason has been eager to share the story of feedlots and provide a ‘behind-the-scenes’ look to many different groups. Jason frequently gives presentations across Canada, as well as hosts tours for 4-H groups, school classes, doctors, NHL players, political leaders and others to share more about cattle feedlots and promote the beef industry. “We want to break the mold of how a feedlot looks and how the cattle are treated,” Jason explains. “It is our goal to shock people and change their image of feedyards.” Having this open-door policy and bringing additional education to people outside of the industry, remains important. However, what keeps the Calhouns motivated in their work are the cattlemen they interact with on a day-to-day basis. “There’s just something about cattlemen that is different,” Jason reflects. “They are the smartest and hardest working people we know, and we are so proud to work with them.”
Although their custom feedlot operation keeps them busy, you’ll find the Calhouns involved in various aspects of their community. Through the years, Rod and Carol have been members of the Three Hills Curling Club, Swalwell Town and Country Club, Three Hills Golf Course and Three Hills Elks Association. Carol also served 16 years on the County Council and was Reeve for four years. Jason and Erin are actively involved as coaches for their children’s baseball and hockey teams, as well as served on the Kneehill Minor Hockey Board and Three Hills Curling Rink Board. In addition, Erin works full-time as a physician in the region.
Although it was a major leap for Rod and Carol to move to Alberta 44 years ago and start Calhoun Cattle Co., it made a lasting impact for their family, as well as the Alberta beef industry.
Sign up to be notified of FIRE BAN Status Changes
One of the most common questions we receive is, “Why are fire bans still in place even after a day of rain?” The decision to issue or lift a fire ban is based on several factors beyond just rainfall. While rain does help to dampen dry conditions temporarily, it does not always provide enough moisture to significantly reduce fire risk. Here’s why:
• Amount of Fuel: A major factor in deciding fire bans is the amount of available fuel, such as dry crops, long brown grass in ditches, and other vegetation that can catch fire. Even after a day of rain, these materials can dry out quickly and still pose a significant fire risk. Fire bans often remain in place until these fuels are reduced to safer levels.
• Weather Forecast: Rainwater moisture can quickly be negated by the return of dry, hot weather. We closely monitor weather forecasts, and if the weather is expected to dry out rapidly after a brief period of rain, the fire risk remains high. Additionally, not all areas receive the same amount of rainfall, so while one part of the region may appear less risky, another may still be very dry.
• Wind Conditions: Winds play a critical role in the spread of fires, and in recent years, wind conditions have become more unpredictable and severe. Even with moisture on the ground, strong winds can quickly dry out vegetation and spread fires more rapidly, necessitating a continued ban until conditions stabilize.
• Availability of Volunteer Firefighters: Our community relies heavily on volunteer firefighters who are actively engaged in farming, especially during seeding and harvest times. Their availability is crucial for effective fire management. Reducing fire risk through bans helps manage their capacity and ensures they can respond effectively when needed.
Given these considerations, fire bans are implemented based on a thorough risk assessment conducted in consultation with area fire chiefs and fire guardians. We use tools like ACIS (Alberta Climate and Atlas) Mapping to evaluate climate and moisture levels across the region and make informed decisions.
We understand that fire bans can be inconvenient, especially when it seems like conditions have improved. However, they are necessary to ensure our communities’ safety and reduce the risk of uncontrolled fires.
How You Can Stay Informed and Involved
To stay up to date on fire ban information, visit Alberta Fire Bans. This resource provides the latest updates on fire bans and advisories for your area.
Kneehill County residents can also sign up to receive Fire Ban notifications from Kneehill County via text and email. Scan the QR code in the ad below to get started.
Hamlet Residents: Please note, burning barrels are not permitted in Kneehill County hamlets!
Smoke Alarms: Make them work for you!
This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign is “Smoke Alarms: Make them work for you!.” The campaign works to educate everyone about the importance of having working smoke alarms in the home. According to National Fire Protection Association, smoke alarms reduce the risk of dying in a home fire by more than half (54 percent). Meanwhile, roughly three out of five fire deaths happen in homes with either no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.
“Smoke alarms serve as the first line of defense in a home fire, but they need to be working in order to protect people,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of outreach and advocacy at NFPA. “This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign helps better educate the public about simple but critical steps they can take to make sure their homes have smoke alarms in all the needed locations and that they’re working properly.”
Smoke alarm safety tips:
• Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area (like a hallway), and on each level (including the basement) of the home.
• Make sure smoke alarms meet the needs of all family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month by pushing the test button.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.
For more information about Fire Prevention Week and smoke alarms, visit fpw.org.
Be prepared! Keep the following in mind in case of an emergency evacuation:
Horseshoe Canyon Master Plan
Council approved the 2024 Horseshoe Canyon Master Plan at the September 10, 2024 Council Meeting. The Master Plan includes concepts that support future Kneehill County tourism and economic development by creating possible revenue streams and recreation opportunities. Approval of the Master Plan does not automatically green-light the proposed projects within, but allows administration to develop specific project and strategies based on the Plan for Council’s future consideration. View the Master Plan on our website: www.kneehillcounty.com/2272/Horseshoe-Canyon
Ward Boundary Change
Kneehill County engaged with residents regarding a potential ward boundary change between Division 4 and Division 6, with a public meeting held in Torrington in August, and a survey conducted online. 78% of all respondents voted to change the boundary, amalgamating all of Torrington into Division 4. (Currently, the hamlet is divided between Division 4 and 6 by Highway 27.)
Results from the survey were presented at the September 10, 2024, Council meeting, where Council voted in favour of the change, giving first reading to proposed Bylaw 1908. Residents have until November 25 to submit a petition against the bylaw, with second and third reading tentatively scheduled for December 10, 2024, to be passed in time for the 2025 election.
Visit our website for more information: kneehillcounty.com/2499/Proposed-Ward-Boundary-Change
Municipal Development Plan
Following robust engagements with residents, the draft Municipal Development Plan was presented to Council for discussion at the September 10 Council Meeting, the September 17 Committee of the Whole Meeting, and the October 8 Council meeting, where Council gave MDP Bylaw 1905 first reading. (Watch the discussions live on our You Tube Channel: @kneehillcounty48.)
A Public Hearing for the proposed Bylaw has been scheduled for Tuesday, November 26, at 1:00 pm. (Venue to be determined, please check our website, The Capital and/or social media for updates.)
You can pick up a physical copy of the draft MDP at the Kneehill County office, or view the draft bylaw online. Scan the QR code or visit: kneehillcounty.com/2318/Municipal-Development-Plan.
COMING EVENTS!
Trochu Flapjack Fiesta and Community Showcase
Wednesday, October 23, 5:00 – 6:30 PM (Trochu)
An opportunity for residents to learn more about resources and supports available to them in their community.
Kids Have Stress Too Workshop
Wednesday, October 30, 6:30 – 8:30 PM (Three Hills)
An evidence based social emotional learning program designed to teach parents the skills to promote and support positive mental health and well-being. Parents will learn how to recognize stress in their children and help them develop the coping skills they require to manage stress.
Fear Less
Thursdays, November 7, 21, and 28, 6:30 – 8:30 PM (Three Hills)
This free workshop offers tips and strategies for parents to help children ages 5-16 manage anxiety.
Families Connect Through Art Workshops
Fridays, November 1, and December 6
5:30 – 7:00 PM (Three Hills) Grades 1 – 6
Fridays, November 15, December 20, 5:30 – 7:00 PM (Three Hills) Grade 7 – 12
Parents and their children are invited to participate in art activities side by side to creatively express themselves, gain self-awareness and open the door to communication with family members. No artistic skills needed! New theme each month.
Youth Skill Zone Series (Ages 14 – 18)
Cost of Real Life
November 1, 2:00 PM (Three Hills)
Learn about the financial costs of loans, interest rates and compound interest
Post Secondary
November 8, 2:00 PM (Three Hills)
Learn about post-secondary education basics, scholarships and financial aid, how to apply and more!
To learn more or register, contact 403-443-3800, angie@krfcss.com or visit www.krfcss.com
Kneehill Connect: Sign up today!
Kneehill Connect is NOW AVAILABLE!
What is Kneehill Connect?
Kneehill Connect is our virtual office that lets you pay bills, check your account balances, and request tax certificates online, anytime!
What do I need to create an account?
• Your latest Kneehill County tax bill, invoice, or accounts receivable statement
• An active email address
Important--the name you enter for your account (not your username) must EXACTLY MATCH the name on your statement. This is required for verification.
Scan the QR code for more information, or visit www.kneehillcounty.com/2500/Kneehill-Connect.
IMPORTANT: CHANGES TO CREDIT CARD PAYMENTS
With the launch of Kneehill Connect, Kneehill County will now accept credit card payments for taxes. While credit cards were previously accepted for other transactions, this is a new option for tax payments.
Coinciding with this change and effective immediately, a NEW 2.5% convenience fee will now apply to ALL credit card transactions, including tax payments. This fee helps cover the costs associated with credit card processing.
2025 Budget Timeline
Tune in to the following Council Meetings to stay informed throughout the 2025 budget process:
• October 22, 2024 – Proposed Core Operating Budget
This step will outline the core operating budget, which is developed based on maintaining existing service levels and Council approved guidelines.
• November 12 – Budget Discussions
This step allows administration to respond to questions and information requests from Council following the first two presentations.
• November 26 – Budget Discussions
This meeting provides an additional opportunity for budget discussions by Council and seeks to determine a balanced budget to be presented at the final stage.
• December 10 – Budget Adoption
The intention for the final stage is Council’s adoption of a balanced budget.
Payments made by cheque, cash, online banking, or pre-authorized payments will not incur this fee.
If you have any questions or concerns about these changes, please contact our office at 403-443-5541.
Economic Development
Business Retention and Expansion Visitation underway, in partnership with Olds and surrounding communities.
Kneehill County Economic Development has partnered with Olds, surrounding communities, and business support organizations to undergo a Business Retention and Expansion visitation program.
Kneehill County wants to hear from our local businesses and is seeking support from our business community to participate in the visitation program. The information provided by our business community will be utilized to develop business retention and expansion programming to support our local businesses!
Contact Kneehill County’s Economic Development department to find out how you can participate in this valuable initiative. Questions can be directed to economic.development@ kneehillcounty.com. More information will be posted to Kneehill County’s website as the details are finalized.
Kneehill
Regional Recreation Directory: Coming soon!
Kneehill County, along with the Town of Trochu, Town of Three Hills, Villages of Acme, Carbon and Linden are undergoing the development and refresh of a regional Recreation Directory.
The directory is expected to be released by December 20, 2024, stay tuned for more details!
Evan Gorr
SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS!
Kneehill County is proud to announce the recipients of this year’s annual scholarships: Evan Gorr and Reagan Wiebe. Both students have been awarded $2,000 in recognition of their exceptional contributions to their schools and communities, as well as their commitment to pursuing higher education.
Evan Gorr will be attending Mount Royal University to pursue a Bachelor of Business Administration. Evan has shown remarkable dedication to both his school and community through numerous volunteer and leadership roles. His contributions to the Acme United Church & Royal Purple, involvement in 4-H, his work as a lifeguard and basketball coach underscore his passion for giving back to the community.
Reagan Wiebe will be attending Red Deer Polytechnic, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences. Reagan’s impressive track record includes volunteering as a comfort care aid during COVID-19, teaching swimming lessons, and working as a lifeguard and canoe instructor. Her artistic talents, such as playing the violin, dancing, and painting watercolors, further highlight her well-rounded accomplishments.
Congratulations again to Evan and Reagan for their outstanding achievements. Council is incredibly proud of all the applicants and their dedication to making a difference in our community.
Reagan Wiebe
Three Hills, AB
T0M 2A0
