After a rough winter, the County of Stettler plans to resurface the parking lot in front of the administration building, while staff and council continue to ponder projects to extend water in more parts of the county.
At its monthly meeting last week, county council approved a staff recommendation to repave the parking lot at an estimated cost of $220,000.
“The parking lot is in bad shape and failing miserably,” said CAO Tim Fox. “It’s a good opportunity to do it now.”
Water projects pondered
With growing requests for the county to extend its supply of water to such locations as Big Valley, Donalda, Erskine and Willow Glen Estates, staff was directed to study the feasibility of areas within two miles of the Shirley McClellan water system.
“I suggest we survey residents — we have some interest,” Fox said. “We could possibly connect a line to Buffalo Lake and Rochon Sands.”
While the current cost to connect was set at $10,000 a few years ago, Coun, James Nibourg expressed that’s “relatively low” and suggested the county consider raising it.
“Once we get into the hamlets and residential areas where homes are closer, the $10,000 fee comes to completely cover the cost,” said Reeve Wayne Nixon.
After costs have been determined, Fox said council could approve reserve funding for the project.
Flood protection in Red Willow Creek basin
Alberta Environment officials explained the process to develop a master water drainage plan for Red Willow Creek basin with the Town of Stettler to protect land and property from a rare heavy-rainfall flooding event.
“We are having wet years and there is always a one per cent chance of a one-in-100-year flood every year,” said Andrew Patton, who encouraged the town and county to work together to develop a plan that would include maps.