At a recent meeting for the M.D. of Bonnyville council held on March 12, several significant decisions were made regarding development projects and community funding initiatives.
Approval of Class II Landfill Development
The council approved the development of a Class II landfill on Crown land north of Crane Lake. The landfill, to be developed by Pure Environmental Waste Management Ltd, has received provincial approval under the Alberta Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act. This landfill, named Trucker Class II Landfill, will exclusively handle oilfield and industrial waste, commonly known as ‘dirty dirt.’ Hazardous waste will not be accepted at this site, which is approximately 2.25 miles north of Crane Lake and west of Range Rd. 440. The landfill has approval for processing more than 10,000 Tonnes of waste per year.
Cherry Grove Fire Hall Construction
Council approved the development application to construct a fire hall and grader shop in Cherry Grove, northwest of Highway 55 and 46 Street. The project aims to enhance emergency response capabilities in the area. Although residents expressed concerns about the proposed location’s potential impact on property values, measures are being taken to mitigate noise disturbances, including planting trees as a buffer between the site and adjacent properties.
Funding for Kokum’s House Initiative
A motion to amend the 2024 operating budget to include a one-time contribution of $25,000 for sponsorship of the Cold Lake Native Friendship Centre Kokum’s House Initiative was passed by council. The initiative aims to provide a safe, stable, and substance-free home for transient men at risk of violence and substance addiction. Despite some reservations expressed by council members about the scope of municipal involvement in such initiatives, the motion received majority support.
CNRL Road Agreement
Council approved a partnership agreement with CNRL to upgrade four miles of Township Road 622 from Range Road 479 to Range Road 474, catering to CNRL operations in the Dupre area.
Under the agreement, CNRL will cover the total project cost estimate at $8.4 million, with the M.D. of Bonnyville supporting an unbudgeted expenditure of $4.4 million for road reconstruction costs. Councillors shared differing perspectives on the repayment timeline, with considerations for maximizing community benefits while maintaining positive relations with industry partners.
Council expressed its commitment to addressing community needs, promoting economic development, and fostering partnerships that will benefit the M.D. of Bonnyville and its residents.