Council Highlights July 13, 2026

- Jul 14, 2026

Hope Resource Centre

Sylvia Yoder of the Hope Resource Centre provided Council with an update on the organization’s work to prevent homelessness across the Westlock region. The presentation highlighted its partnership with the Rural Development Network, plans for a proposed Hygiene Hub to provide practical supports for vulnerable residents, and an upcoming CN grant application. The Hope Resource Centre requested a letter of support from the Town to accompany the grant application.
Council accepted the presentation as information and directed Administration to provide the letter of support.

Fire and Rescue Services Department Bylaw 2016-11

Administration presented the post-legal review version of Fire and Rescue Services Bylaw 2026-04, which updates the framework for fire protection, emergency response, fire prevention, and related services while aligning with current legislation and municipal authority.
Council gave third reading to and adopted the Fire and Rescue Services Department Bylaw 2016-11.

Fire and Rescue Department Level of Service Policy P-115-2026

Administration presented the updated Fire and Rescue Services Level of Service Policy, which clarifies authorized services and intended service levels, reflects the operational realities of a volunteer fire service, and incorporates risk-based guidelines, mutual and automatic aid arrangements, fire prevention requirements, and Incident Command System practices.
Council adopted the updated Fire and Rescue Services Level of Service Policy.

Employee Training and Development Policy P-117-2026

Administration presented the revised Professional Development and Career Development Policy, updated following the June 15 Committee of the Whole discussion to clarify the definition of career development, ensure consistent terminology for temporary opportunities and employee eligibility, and confirm that travel expenses are considered through the professional development request and approval process.
Council adopted Employee Training and Development Policy P-117-2026 and rescinded the previous version.

Consolidated Land Use Bylaw 2022-12, Amendment Bylaw 2026-11

Administration received an application to amend the Land Use Bylaw by redistricting 10923 106 Avenue from R1 – Low Density Residential District to R2 – Medium Density Residential District.
Council gave first reading to Land Use Bylaw Amendment 2026-11 and scheduled the public hearing for August 10, 2026.

106 Street Rehabilitation Project Update

Administration provided an update on the 106 Street Rehabilitation Project, including feedback from the June 25 open house regarding parking, business and delivery access, pedestrian safety, construction timing, and project phasing. Revised design options were presented, along with measures to maintain storefront access during construction. Council was also advised that completing the project over two construction seasons would add costs and increase operational demands.
Council approved Layout 2 for the 106 Street Rehabilitation Capital Project and supported completing the project within one construction season.

Apex Utilities Franchise Agreement Renewal

Council received the proposed 10-year franchise agreement with Apex Utilities, which would take effect October 1, 2026, and grant Apex the exclusive right to provide natural gas distribution services within Westlock. The agreement maintains the current franchise fee, which Council may review annually, and updates the privacy and access-to-information provisions to reflect current legislation.
Council gave first reading to Bylaw 2026-13, the Apex Utilities Franchise Agreement Bylaw.

Westlock Libraries Bylaw

Council received the amended Westlock Intermunicipal Libraries Bylaw, which replaced references to the former Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act with the Access to Information Act and Protection of Privacy Act.
Council acknowledged receipt of and accepted the amended Westlock Intermunicipal Libraries Bylaw, including its schedules.

Rescind Sale of Surplus Land Policy P-51- 2013

Council was advised that the Sale of Surplus Land Policy P-51-2013 remained active in error following the adoption of the Land Management Policy P-104-2024.
Council rescinded the Sale of Surplus Land Policy P-51-2013.

Proclamation: Blue Suede Music Festival Weekend

Administration provided information on the Blue Suede Music Festival, an annual three-day event that attracts visitors, supports local tourism and businesses, and contributes to the community through donations to the Westlock Food Bank.
Council proclaimed July 24 to 26, 2026, as Blue Suede Music Festival Weekend in the Town of Westlock.

Land Item One: Land Swap

Council resolved and directed Administration to proceed with the proposed land exchange agreement exchanging approximately 2.2 acres of Block B, Plan 6452MC for approximately 2.2 acres of Lot 3, Block 1, Plan 1921725.

Land Item Two: Recycle Building, 10808-97 Street

Council resolved and directed Administration to lower the sale price for the property located at 10808-97 Street.

Land Item Three: Industrial Land, 4183HW 9 PT

Council resolved and directed Administration to purchase the property legally described as 4183HW 9 PT.

Next Meeting: Regular Meeting of Council
Monday, August 10, 2026

Council Highlights provide a summary of decisions and discussions. For official minutes and supporting documents, visit www.westlock.ca.