Council Meeting Highlights

The following are highlights from the February 11, 2026 Regular Council Meeting. This summary provides a snapshot of the key decisions and discussions of this meeting.

For official records, please refer to the approved meeting minutes.

Finance & Governance

Administrative leadership, legal appointments, and signing authorities.

• CAO Appointment: Kevin Gannon has been appointed as the new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) for the Municipal District. In addition to his duties under the Municipal Government Act, Mr. Gannon has been granted signing authority for the MD and is the authorized representative for the Canada Revenue Agency.
• Assessment Review Board: Council completed the mandatory 2026 appointments for the Local and Composite Assessment Review Board. This includes the Clerk, Designated Officer, Panelists, and Chairman.
• Oaths of Office: Council acknowledged the appointment of Gwen Halfe as Bylaw Enforcement Officer, who has officially taken her oath as prescribed by the Oaths of Office Act.

Community & Safety

Emergency services, public safety, and community grant allocations.

• Emergency Management Leadership: Following his CAO appointment, Kevin Gannon was also named Director of Emergency Management, bringing extensive experience from the Canadian Forces and his recent work in Wood Buffalo. Mike Bissell was appointed Deputy Director, and Sara Coutts will serve as the alternate Deputy Director.
• Fire Services Equipment: Station 1 showcased their new replacement Fire Truck. Consequently, Administration is now researching disposal options for the retired Unit #521 (auction or consignment) while also exploring potential alternative uses for the vehicle within the MD.
• Grant Funding Allocations: Council approved several grants to support local heritage, recreation, and community services:
  • Cemetery Grants: Funding was awarded to the Athabina Cemetery Co. ($508.48) and the Smith Community Cemetery Board ($2,100.00).
  • Community Assistance Board (CAB): $12,250.00 total was distributed among groups including Beach Fest ($4,000), the Bird Observatory ($2,000), the Multicultural Association ($1,500), and others.
  • FCSS Funding: The Canyon Creek Recreation Association received three separate grants totaling $1,950.00 for their Family Day, Mother’s Day, and Senior Cribbage events.

Planning & Land Development

Note: No specific items were brought forward for this category during this portion of the meeting.

Infrastructure & Utilities

Road maintenance and municipal service policies.

• Winter Road Maintenance: Following discussions on winter road grading, Administration was directed to bring the Winter Road Maintenance Policy back to Council for a formal review to ensure service levels meet community needs.