Minutes of the Regular Meeting of Council for the Town of Two Hills held June 27, 2023

ADMINISTRATIVE

REPORTS

Public Works Report

The Public Works Foreman’s Report was provided to Council in advance for their review.

MOVED by Councillor K. Thompson that the Public Works report be acknowledged as presented and incorporated into the minutes..

CARRIED

Chief Financial Officer Report

The Chief Financial Officer’s report was provided to Council in advance for their review.

MOVED by Councillor S. Rajoo the Chief Financial Officer’s report be acknowledged as presented and incorporated into the minutes.

CARRIED

Economic Development Officer Report

The Economic Development Officer’s report was provided to Council in advance for their review.

MOVED by Councillor A. Romaniuk the Economic Development Officer’s report be acknowledged as presented and incorporated into the minutes.

CARRIED

Chief Administrative Officer Report

The Chief Administrative Officer’s report was provided to Council in advance for their review.

MOVED by Mayor L. L. Ewanishan to have a Committee of the Whole meeting on July 5, 2023 at 1:00 pm.

CARRIED

MOVED by Councillor K. Thompson the Chief Administrative Officer’s report be acknowledged as presented and incorporated into the minutes.

CARRIED

CORRESPONDENCE:

MOVED by Deputy Mayor M. Tarkowski that the correspondence be acknowledged as presented and filed.

CARRIED

The Reimagining Rural Economic Development Conference, hosted by the ACSRC and with project support from the Alberta Real Estate Foundation, represents the culmination of this work and will highlight ways that an old idea can breathe new life into rural communities across the province. MOVED by Councillor S. Rajoo to have Deputy Mayor M. Tarkowski attend the Reimagining Rural Economic Development Conference

CARRIED

Tree Trimming/Removal Triangle Park

At the last meeting Council requested quotes and we have received the quote for tree care at triangle park

MOVED by Mayor L. L. Ewanishan to have the trees at Triangle Park be trimmed and or removed (for safety reasons) in November after it is safe to trim elm trees.

CARRIED

Tree Trimming/Removal Hillside Lodge

Due to dead limbs falling and damaging property at Hillside Lodge, quotes are provided for removal and trimming of the poplar trees along the south side of the lodge.

MOVED by Councillor K. Thompson to direct administration to work with the contractor to have the work done in an appealing matter.

CARRIED

NAAGO Subcommittee

At the last meeting NAAGO created subcommittees, one to cover the highway concerns and another to work on healthcare.

MOVED by Councillor A. Romaniuk to appoint Mayor L. L. Ewanishan to the NAAGO health care sub-committee.

NEW BUSINESS:

Reimagining Rural Economic Development Conference

CARRIED

Legal Appointment for Town of

Two Hills

The Town is required to appoint legal representation for the CAO or designate to be able to access from time to time.

MOVED by Mayor L. L. Ewanishan to appoint Brownlee LLP, Reynolds Mirth Richards & Farmer, and Alberta Counsel as the Town of Two Hills Legal Team.

CARRIED rent Land Use Bylaw.

MOVED by Councillor K. Thompson to approve the request for a variance at 4601-53a Ave.

CARRIED

COUNCIL REPORTS:

MOVED by Councillor A. Romaniuk that the correspondence be acknowledged as presented and filed.

CARRIED

Variance Request

Consideration by council to grant a variance for a resident to build a fence that contravenes the cur-

CLOSED SESSION:

MOVED by Mayor L. L. Ewanishan to go into closed session at 9:01PM.

CARRIED

MOVED by Mayor L. L. Ewanishan to come out of closed session at 9:19 PM.

CARRIED

NEXT MEETING:

Regular Council Meeting Tuesday July 17, 2023 at 7 P.M.

Straight from the Heart

By-election

In Two Hills Comes at a Crucial Time cussions without compromising their respective communities.

I have served for many years on municipal Town Council, and even more as a journalist, attending Council meetings across this world and see an urgent need for politicians to “agree to disagree”. Sadly, our differences lead to divisions that are detrimental to the relationships between various municipalities.

Just A Minute...

Embracing the Enduring Allure of Small Town Charm

by Morgan Gordeyko

In a world where cities continuously expand, and urbanization reaches unprecedented heights, there exists a realm of tranquility, simplicity and warmth that encapsulates the essence of small town charm. These idyllic pockets of humanity, nestled away from the chaos of bustling metropolises, hold an undeniable allure that captivates the hearts of those who experience them.

by Sonny Rajoo

Theresignation of Councillor Keegan Thompson, who resigned after accepting a position with the EMS in Innisfail, Alberta, comes at a crucial time for the Town of Two Hills.

An upcoming by-election will be held if there is more than one candidate seeking election. Indications are that several people have expressed interest in serving on Council.

The many changes to the Municipal Government Act and the recent reelection of the UCP government has prepared us for changes at all levels of government.

It is now more crucial than ever that the Town and County of Two Hills, as well as the Village of Myrnam, examine more intense collaboration with a vision of moving the entire community forward.

The areas of cooperation are diverse and many. It is equally important for Councils and Administrations to have honest dis-

Recent media reports and the resignations of Councillors, firing of CAOs, and “washing dirty laundry in public” makes for a toxic work environment, which poses a challenge to the best of our municipal staff.

I’ve always stated that municipalities have boundaries, but communities have none. We are all one group of people when it's all said and done.

I urge all potential candidates to research what it entails to become a municipal councillor, the expectations, the challenges, and most importantly the rewards. A decision made in overall best interests of the community is far more important than the views of a vociferous minority or individuals with massive egos.

As a Town Councillor, I know the rewards of serving my community and I urge you to remember two fundamental facts. In politics, lies will travel half way across the world before truth can put its pants on. Secondly, in politics, friends will come and go, but enemies accumulate.

Share your stories with our community. Email Niri at news@twohillschronicle.com, Jared at publisher@twohillschronicle.com, Ravika at sales@twohillschronicle.com, or call Sonny at (780) 657-3536.

Small towns epitomize the true meaning of community. In these close-knit enclaves, residents share a profound connection that fosters a sense of belonging. Whether it’s a friendly wave from a passerby or the lively conversations at a local diner, small towns offer an intimate atmosphere where individuals become more than mere neighbors; they become an extended family. Community events such as parades, rodeos and cook offs further strengthen these bonds, bringing people together to celebrate shared traditions and create lasting memories.

The architectural charm found in small towns transports us back in time, evoking a sense of nostalgia and romanticism. Quiet streets, historic buildings and picturesque main streets lined with charming shops create an aesthetic that is both timeless and inviting. Additionally, small towns often boast breathtaking natural landscapes, with rolling hills, tranquil lakes and lush forest areas. The beauty of these surroundings provides a respite from the fast-paced urban world and offers countless opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration

One of the most enduring aspects of small towns is their unwavering support for local business. In a world dominated by large corporations, small towns stand as bastions of entrepreneurial spirit and local craftsmanship. Residents take pride in supporting the momand-pop shops, and family owned businesses that give their town its distinct

Two Hills Regional Chronicle

P.O. Box 156, Two Hills, AB T0B 4K0 www.twohillschronicle.com character. These business not only provide unique goods and services but also serve as gathering places where stories are shared, friendships are formed and community bonds are strengthened.

Small towns embrace a slower pace of life that offers respite from the constant hustle and bustle of city living. In these serene settings, people find solace in simplicity, appreciating the value of quality time spent with loved ones and the beauty of the present moment. With less traffic, noise and distractions, small towns encourage a deeper connection with nature and an opportunity for introspection. The unhurried rhythm of daily life allows for a greater focus on personal well-being and fostering meaningful relationships.

In an era where the word often seems to resolve around grandeur and speed, small tows remind us of the profound beautify and significance found in simplicity, community and the appreciation of life’s smaller joys. The enduring charm of these havens lies not only in their scenic beauty and architectural allure but also in the hearts of the people who call them home. Small towns encapsulate the essence of what it means to live a rich and fulfilling life, where relationships are cherished, memories are made and the spirit of community prevails. As we navigate the complexities of the modern word, let us not forget the invaluable lessons small towns teach us about the true essence of humanity.

Our Team

Jared - publisher@twohillschronicle.com

Jared (alt) - jareddrajoo@gmail.com

Niri - news@twohillschronicle.com

Sonny - (780) 657-3536

Ravika - sales@twohillschronicle.com locations as well as the Saddle Lake Cree Nation. (Approx. 3000 copies).