Due to the impending closure of the TD Bank in Coronation, Paintearth County is making some changes to its banking practices.
During the July 3 council meeting, council was met with a request from the administration to withdraw all funds from that banking institution and move them into other county-owned bank accounts at the Alberta Treasury Branch in Castor.
While council had no issues with the plans, Coun. Diane Elliot was concerned about ratepayers' ability to pay bills if the account was closed.
According to chief administrative officer (CAO) Michael SImpson, ratepayers would still have the ability to pay their bills at the TD Bank at the nearest community, in this case Stettler, if they so chose.
"We're just taking our money out," said Simpson.
The plan to close the account was approved in a motion by Coun. Terry Vockeroth.
Sports
Council reviewed a pair of requests for sports funding during its meeting.
As part of its recreation and cultural support for the region, the county budgets $5,000 yearly for individuals or groups that are competing at the provincial, national, or international level.
Individuals are eligible for up to $50 and teams up to $500.
The U17 Girls Castor/Coronation Prairie Gamblers ball team, which is travelling to Grande Prairie for provincials from July 10-12 requested funding.
"It's within policy, they're asking for the $500," said Simpson.
The motion to approve the funding was approved with a motion by Coun. Maurice Wiart.
Another team which will be attending girls' softball provincials from July 5-7 is the U13 Castor Crush.
For this tournament, the team travelled to Provost.
Again within policy, the funding for $500 was approved in a motion by Coun. Sandy Shipton.
Village of Halkirk
Paintearth County has agreed to support the village of Halkirk in its bid to apply for the Alberta Community Partnership grant.
If successful, the grant will assist the village with several pressing issues, such as dealing with tax sale properties, purchasing and demolishing derelict properties, re-developing clear contracts, ensure funds are on hand to cover any needed consultant fees regarding housing issues.
"I hope they are successful in this ... the odds are stacked against them," said Simpson.
The motion to support the application was put forward in a motion by Coun. George Glazier.
Coronation Library
The Coronation Library had submitted its 2024 budget to the county.
As a municipal partner, and under the Libraries Act, the county needs to approve the annual budget.
"It's just a formality," said Simpson.
