News Release: Town of Westlock and Westlock County Finalize Recreation Cost-Sharing Agreement

News Release
For Immediate Release

September 10, 2025

TOWN OF WESTLOCK AND WESTLOCK COUNTY FINALIZE RECREATION COST-SHARING AGREEMENT

Westlock, AB - The Town of Westlock and Westlock County are pleased to announce the renewal of the Recreation Cost Sharing Agreement, ensuring residents across the region continue to benefit from shared access to local recreation opportunities.

The agreement establishes a clear framework for cost sharing between the municipalities and outlines a contract term of five (5) years. The key facilities included in the agreement are Long Island Lake Municipal Campground, Tawatinaw Valley Ski Hill, Westlock Aquatic Centre, Westlock Rotary Spirit Centre and Curling Rink.

By working together, the Town and County reaffirm their commitment to regional cooperation, cost-effective service delivery, and enhancing the quality of life for residents.

“This agreement reflects the strong collaboration between our municipalities and our shared commitment to recreation,” said Jon Kramer, Mayor, Town of Westlock. “By working together, we are ensuring these facilities remain accessible and sustainable, while fostering connection and strengthening the sense of community across the region.”

“Strong communities are built when we work together as a team,” said Christine Wiese, Reeve, Westlock County. “This agreement highlights the value of collaboration between our municipalities, ensuring our recreation facilities remain sustainable and accessible while supporting growth and community well-being across the region.”

A central element of the agreement is the recognition that recreation facilities across the region serve all residents, no matter which municipality owns or operates them.

The financial arrangement is structured as a transfer from Westlock County to the Town of Westlock, calculated as a percentage of the facilities’ operating budgets. While exact figures vary from year to year, the contribution has increased over time, shifting from an initial lower share to a level that more closely reflects the current balance of use and cost.

This cost-sharing model provides clarity and fairness, ensuring that recreation assets remain sustainable while demonstrating the joint commitment of both municipalities to supporting regional quality of life.

Media contact:
Jon Kramer, Mayor                                             Christine Wiese, Reeve
Town of Westlock                                                Westlock County
jkramer@westlock.ca| 780-349-4444                cwiese@westlockcounty.com | 780-349-3346