2021 Interim Budget – Council adopted the 2021 Interim Budget to be effective January 1, 2021. The total budget is $113,399,624 and includes no increase in the municipal portion of the property tax rate. No new county programs were added to the 2021 budget and capital costs were significantly reduced compared to previous years. This interim budget consists of operations $43,724,355; capital projects $12,100,061; requisitions $28,577,969; contribution to reserves $8,064,115; contribution to local governments $4,663,741; amortization $16,269,383.

FCSS Year in Review – Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) continued to provide preventative social services to county residents during the pandemic, including regular social services, referrals, and information services. The results and success of their programs and services had many successful impacts on the community. Their in-person and online methods helped residents of all ages continue to be part of the community and ensure residents were aware of the available resources and services offered through FCSS.

Ag Services Year in Review – Although Agricultural Services had several setbacks brought on by the pandemic, including not hiring temporary summer staff, the department continued to provide core services required under provincial legislation. Some ag extension programs were cancelled, but several transitioned to virtual events that were very successful and had a high participation rate.

Gravel Supply Contracts – The gravel supply for two 3-year (2021-2023) county contracts were awarded to A. Gering Ranching Ltd. These were the Williamson Gravel Supply Contract for the total amount of $893,000 and the Rosevear Gravel Supply Contract for $1,598,000.
Broadband Funding Application – Council approved an application partnership with Nova/Rock, 3CIS, and Morad Communications to apply Application Bid for the Rapid Response Stream, Universal Broadband Fund to support extended coverage in Yellowhead County.

Tax Write-Offs – Council approved the write-off of 5 accounts-receivables for a total of $7,934.87 and uncollectable taxes in the amount of $71.21.

Grazing Lease Approved – Council approved a five-year lease for Pt of Block W, Plan 1035AR.

Wildwood & District Agricultural Society Lease – Yellowhead County approved a five-year lease to the Wildwood & District Agricultural Society for the portion of closed road, locally known as Fifth Avenue, which lies within Plan 902-1054.

Project Management Contract – Council, acting in partnership with the Town of Edson, awarded the Yellowhead County/ Edson Recreation Facility Project Management contract to Turnbull Construction Project Managers with a maximum cost of $750,000.

The next scheduled regular Council meetings are January 12 & 26, 2021 at 9:30 AM. The next scheduled Governance & Priorities meeting is January 19, 2021.