Stettler town council has provided approval for a one-year pilot project being run by Stettler Minor Ball Association (SMBA). The approval was granted during the May 6 meeting.
According to Stettler's Director of Recreation, Brad Robbins, the pilot project allows the SMBA to sell sponsorships to raise funds for the organization. The logos of the sponsors would then be placed on banners to be hung at the ball diamonds for the season, similar to the plaques that are in place at the Stettler Recreation Centre.
Previously, the town only allowed event sponsorship banners, which had to be taken down at the conclusion of any events being held.
According to Robbins, the seasonal sponsorship banners will be required to be removed by Aug. 31, 2025.
"I don't love this," said Coun. Wayne Smith. "I'm glad we're doing this as a one-year pilot project. Maybe we'll be fine. We'll see how it goes."
Mayor Sean Nolls had concerns about how the banners would fall under the town's unsightliness and signage bylaws. According to Chief Administrative Officer Leann Graham, portable signage isn't allowed on public-use land, however the sponsorship banners would not fall under the category of portable signage so would be allowed.
"In my opinion, the only ones this is going to benefit is the kids," said Cheryl Barros, agreeing the project should proceed.
Mayor Nolls agreed, saying "I like the intent."
The pilot project was approved in a motion put forward by Coun. Kurt Baker.
Water Main
Included in the 2025 Capital Budget was $490,000 for water main replacement along 50 Avenue between 50 and 52 Streets.
The project has been put on hold, at least temporarily, as five companies bid on the project, all of which came in significantly over the approved budget. Additionally, two companies, including one local, that typically bid "aggressively" on town projects did not submit tenders as they already have a full schedule.
"They may have an opportunity later in the fall," said Director of Operations Melissa Robbins.
Robbins recommendation was to re-tender the project later in the summer.
The recommendation passed with a motion by Travis Randell.
Subdivisions
Stettler Town council has approved a pair of subdivision requests within its borders.
In the first, a property on 70 Street currently marked Urban Reserve has been allowed to subdivide into one 14-acre parcel with a residence and one 98-acre parcel to remain as farmland. The owners intention is to possibly sell one or both new parcels at a later time.
While feedback was requested from concerned parties, including potential neighbours, Alberta Transport, and Stettler County, no issues were found.
The second property approved for subdivision is a parcel on 53 Street with a duplex on it.
Again, no feedback was received on the potential division.
The property will be split along the structure's central wall.
