Woodlands County Council recap

Woodlands County Council discussed the following items at their recent meeting of Council:

Sgt. R.W. Dodds joined Council remotely to provide an update on police activity in Woodlands County, which included a review of crime statistics that indicates a decrease in persons crimes (assaults, uttering threats). Sgt. Dodds noted Barrhead RCMP is seeking input from the communities they serve on the priorities the RCMP should focus on over the coming year. “Visibility of Police” is historically requested, and they anticipate it to be a priority again. In addition, “Drug Enforcement” is a recommended priority that focuses on drug related crime, theft, and violence, all enhanced by drug use. The detachment is connecting with its other municipalities and reaching out to the public through BARCC for further input.

In 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions, the annual Volunteer Appreciation event was cancelled, and the scheduled 2021 Senior’s Recognition event requires modifications to meet current Provincial protocols. These groups are of high importance to Woodlands County and Community Services wishes to recognize both groups in 2021. Further details are expected to be released in the coming weeks.

In conjunction with the new Woodlands County website, Woodlands County is implementing a service request tracking program which allows the public to make requests via the service request form on the website through reception via in-person visits or by phone. Council adopted Policy 1216.

– Service Request Tracking that allows Woodlands County to maintain and improve program and service delivery levels. The website is anticipated to launch in early April 2021.

In response to COVID-19 financial pressures impacting businesses, Woodlands County has agreed to enter into a 2021 tax agreement with any company in arrears by no later than June 15, 2021, to allow for taxes to be paid in full without penalty by December 31, 2021.

The 2021 Municipal Tax Recovery Sale date is moved to Wednesday, June 2, 2021, 10 am at the Woodlands County Whitecourt Municipal Office. Extending the date ensures property owners are aware of the tax recovery process and timelines involved.

Advanced poll dates for the upcoming municipal election are set for Wednesday, October 13, 2021, 3 to 7 pm and Saturday, October 16, 2021, noon to 4 pm. Advanced polls are held at the Woodlands County Whitecourt Municipal Office and/or the Fort Assiniboine Regional Office. For more information on the 2021 Election, visit woodlands.ab.ca/elections.

The next regularly scheduled Council meeting is Tuesday, April 6, 2021, 9:30 am. The meeting is held virtually and streamed on the Woodlands County YouTube channel. Agenda packages are available on the Woodlands County CivicWeb Portal.