A member of the St. Paul RCMP detachment has been suspended and is facing several child pornography-related charges following an investigation from the Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team’s Internet Child Exploitation Unit  

ALERT officials say the investigation into 33-year-old Evan Peacock started in November 2023, when the accused allegedly uploaded a pair of what is being described as videos depicting child sexual exploitation to a social media platform. They were tipped off about the alleged upload from the RCMP’s National Child Exploitation Crime Center. The investigation led to the execution of a search warrant at the accused's home, where authorities say evidence was seized, with a forensic investigation set to be conducted on the devices seized by police.  

Authorities say Peacock’s identity was only learned earlier this month, which prompted an “expeditious” effort to make an arrest. 

In a statement, St. Paul Detachment NCO Bobby Burgess says the detachment personnel are shocked and disappointed by these allegations. 

“Furthermore, our members are obviously concerned with the possible public perception and confidence of our Detachment and the RCMP following such news,” he says. 

"I assure you this isn’t a reflection of our Detachment membership as a whole, and these allegations are against a single person.” 

Burgess says they were unaware of an investigation into the officer's alleged conduct until he was being processed in a neighboring detachment on Thursday morning. 

Peacock is facing two counts of possession of child pornography, distributing child pornography, and accessing child pornography. 

ICE unit members say while the investigation and charges are related to online offences, the nature of the suspect’s employment placed him in a position of trust and authority. Officials are asking anyone with information about this case to come forward and contact the police.  

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The Smoky Lake RCMP are intensifying efforts to locate three suspects following a truck theft incident that unfolded near Vilna on April 22. While one individual has been apprehended, authorities continue their search for the remaining suspects. 

The sequence of events began when the Smoky Lake RCMP received a distress call regarding a break-in on Township Road 602 in Smoky Lake County. The caller reported witnessing three or more armed individuals entering their rural property and allegedly taking items from outbuildings.  

According to Cpl. Troy Savinkoff, the suspects, armed with long guns, were spotted by the victims during the theft. Subsequently, the perpetrators made off with the victims’ red 1997 Mazda B2300 pick-up truck bearing Alberta license plate LWAS380, along with another vehicle.  

Members of the Smoky Lake detachment managed to locate both vehicles, initiating an attempt to deploy tire deflation devices. However, one of the vehicles swerved towards an officer, narrowly missing him before getting stuck in a ditch.  

Following the incident, two suspects fled from the vehicle, later revealed to have been stolen from the Cold Lake area on March 30. Law enforcement promptly mobilized a comprehensive response, enlisting the assistance of St. Paul, Lac La Biche and Boyle RCMP detachments, along with K9 units, the Emergency Response Team, and the Eastern Alberta Crime Reduction Unit.  

During the pursuit, one suspect, identified as 21-year-old Philip Hope from Saddle Lake, was apprehended. Hope faces multiple charges including robbery with a firearm, assault on a peace officer with a weapon, mischief over $5000, possession of property obtained by crime, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, and flight from the police. He has been remanded into custody awaiting a future court date at the Alberta Court of Justice in Fort Saskatchewan.  

Despite this arrest, authorities continue their search for the remaining suspects, as well as the stolen red Mazda B2300. The RCMP urges anyone with information regarding the incident or the whereabouts of the suspects to come forward.  

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As Alberta grapples with heightened wildfire risk and actively, the provincial government has pledged to provide weekly updates on the evolving situation, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts to mitigate the threat and safeguard public safety.  

Minister of Forestry and Parks, Todd Loewen, stressed the imperative of community involvement in wildfire prevention and protection during a media briefing held on Wednesday April 24th.  

Loewen remarked, “Alberta has witnessed several active wildfires classified as out of control over the past week, underscoring the need for unified action by all Albertans. It is incumbent upon us all to play our part in preventing human-caused wildfires and safeguarding our communities and forests in the weeks ahead. The safety of Albertans remains our top priority.”  

Highlighting the role of technology in facilitating awareness, Loewen urged residents to utilize wildfire-related apps for real-time updates and guidance during emergencies. Notably, wildfire actively has prompted evacuation alerts in various communities, including the northeast region.  

Stephen Lacroix, Managing Director of the Alberta Emergency Management Agency, disclosed that although the evacuation order for Cold Lake First Nations has been lifted, 20 individuals remain evacuated, with the expectation of returning home shortly.  

Providing a comprehensive overview of the current situation, Josee St. Onge, Information Unit Manager at Alberta Wildfire, revealed that as of 9 a.m. on April 24th, there were 63 wildfires burning in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. While none were deemed out of control, seven were being held, and 56 were under control.  

St. Onge reported, “This year, we’ve responded to 205 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area, burning approximately 755 hectares. Compared to the five-year average of 120 wildfires and 230 hectares burned by this time, the elevated activity is notable. Additionally, Alberta Wildfire is providing support for a mutual aid fire in the Municipal District of Peace.”  

Minister Loewen reiterated the collaborative efforts between Alberta Wildfire and local municipalities, emphasizing that wildfire response is a shared responsibility.  

“Communities have received evacuation alerts, and Alberta Wildfire is working closely with local authorities to contain and suppress wildfires proactively. We will continue coordinated efforts, urging residents to heed local advisories and orders. Introducing fire bans today underscores the importance of proactive measures in mitigating wildfire spread,” Loewen stated.  

Loewen attributed the elevated wildfire risk to factors such as an early spring, low snow load, and persistent drought conditions. He concluded by stressing the ongoing need for vigilance and collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the safety of Alberta’s communities and forests.  

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On April 17th, at approximately 3:32 PM, the RCMP swiftly responded to a concerning report in St. Paul. Authorities were alerted to an intoxicated male wielding a knife and walking amidst traffic, menacing motorists near Racette School on Main Street.  

The RCMP’s prompt response led to the location and subsequent arrest of the individual without any untoward incident. The apprehension occurred on 45th Street, along the eastern perimeter of the Elementary School playground.  

Sergeant Bobby Burgess, the NCO of the St. Paul RCMP Detachment, addressed the incident, stating, “Due to charges not being sworn at this time, all I can tell you is a 24-year-old St. Paul man will be charged with several weapons offences.”  

Following the arrest, the male suspect was transported to the St. Paul Detachment, where he is currently awaiting a Judicial Interim Release Hearing.

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Cold Lake councillors have deferred a decision on whether or not to grant paramedics free access to the Cenovus Energy Centre for fitness training. This deliberation was prompted by a meeting on March 19, where RCMP requested access to the facility due to space constraints at their detachment.  

At the latest meeting, council members addressed a letter from Jason Spears of Associated Ambulance, representing Cold Lake’s paramedics, advocating for expanded access to the Cenovus Energy Centre. City Chief Administrative Officer Kevin Nagoya revisited the council’s previous recommendation of a one-year pilot project for RCMP access at the fitness centre.  

Mayor Craig Copeland highlighted the importance of supporting essential services like the RCMP, anticipating similar requests from other sectors. He underscored the significance of physical fitness for individuals in these fields to maintain their strength. He supported extending access to paramedics under guidelines similar to those of the RCMP’s pilot project.  

“So, I have no problem supporting under the same guidelines as the RCMP. It was a one-year trial. I don't know how many people are really going to take us up on it, but I think it’s important that the ambulance people are in good shape and can carry hundreds of pounds of people. That’s just my own thoughts. It doesn’t bother me.”  

However, council members expressed varied viewpoints on the proposal. Coun. Adele Richardson voiced her reservations about extending access to paramedics under conditions similar to the RCMP's, emphasizing the situational nature of the RCMP’s request due to space constraints.  

Similarly, Coun. Vicki Lefebvre raised concerns about setting a precedent and the potential ripple effect of granting additional emergency service personnel access. To ensure fairness, she suggested exploring alternative solutions, such as volume discounts for healthcare professionals at other facilities.  

After considering the different perspectives, council members decided to defer a decision. After evaluating the RCMP's participation in the pilot project, they agreed to revisit the issue in the spring of 2025.  

The decision to defer reflects the council’s commitment to thoroughly assess the implications of extending access to the Cenovus Energy Centre while ensuring equitable treatment across various emergency service sectors

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In a series of coordinated operations, the Bonnyville RCMP has made significant strides in combating theft-related crimes within the region, resulting in multiple arrests and the recovery of stolen property. 

The first incident, dating back to April 10th, involved a break-in at a business located on 46 St. The perpetrator targeted an outbuilding on the property, making off with a considerable haul of sporting equipment and speakers. RCMP identified suspects linked to the crime following a diligent investigation and receiving crucial information. Subsequently, a search warrant was secured for a residence in the town of Bonnyville, leading to the recovery of the stolen items. A 31-year-old male and a 31-year-old female, both residents of Bonnyville, were charged with possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000 each and released on conditions, with court appearances scheduled for May 28th and May 21st, respectively.  

In a separate incident from April 6th, 34-year-old Dean Gamache found himself on the wrong side of the law. Following reports of thefts from several Canadian Natural Resource sites within the MD of Bonnyville, RCMP executed a search warrant on April 15th at a residence in relation to the theft. Gamache was apprehended and charged with two counts of theft over $5000, two counts of possession of property obtained by crime over $5000, and mischief over $5000. Gamache was remanded in custody following a Judicial Interim Release Hearing.  

The relentless pursuit of justice continued on April 17th, when Bonnyville RCMP executed another search warrant, this time on a residence located on 51 St. The operation led to the recovery of a stolen vehicle. Robert Woods, aged 46, faced charges of possessing property obtained by crime over $5000 and failing to comply with a release order. In contrast, 32-year-old Ryan Bugeja faced charges of two counts of possession of property obtained by crime over $5000 and resisting arrest. Woods and Bugeja were remanded into custody following a Judicial Interim Release Hearing, slated to appear in the Alberta Court of Justice in Bonnyville on April 23.  

Additionally, Bonnyville RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the owner of a Westeel fuel tank believed to have been stolen between April 12th and April 16th. Individuals with information are urged to contact the Bonnyville RCMP at 780-343-7200.

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The City of Cold Lake is on the brink of propelling its regional airport towards certification and the potential introduction of scheduled air services, thanks to a substantial $144,000 grant from the Province of Alberta.  

Administered by Alberta’s Ministry of Jobs, Economy and Trade, the Regional Airport Development Grant will provide crucial support for Cold Lake to finalize its draft Cold Lake Airport Expansion Implementation Strategy, initiated in August 2023. Now in its final phase, this strategy delineates essential steps required to comprehend and execute infrastructure upgrades, procedures, and manuals crucial for airport certification.   

Mayor Craig Copeland expressed confidence in the project’s prospects. “Ultimately, our goal is to see screened, scheduled flights come to Cold Lake, but this is a complex project that comes with a significant price tag,” Copeland stated. “We are confident that the community will get there, but first, we need to make sure that we make the right investments in the airport.”  

Initial estimates indicate that upgrades necessary for screened passenger service could cost approximately $19 million. While interim solutions might involve securing unscreened scheduled flights, airport certification remains a fundamental prerequisite.  

The grant will enable Cold Lake to conduct a thorough gap analysis, pinpointing deficiencies in aerodrome standards and practices. It will also finance the development of updated manuals, including the Airport Operations Manual, Safety Management Manual, Wildlife Management Plan, Snow Removal and Ice Control Plan, and an Emergency Response Plan. Furthermore, a cost analysis will be undertaken to align the facility with federal aerodrome standards.  

In recent years, significant enhancements have been seen at Cold Lake Regional Airport, including the introduction of GPS approaches, runway overlays, LED airfield lighting, precision approach path indicators, a new fuel facility, paved taxiways, and a new terminal building.  

Mayor Copeland stressed the importance of preparedness for potential flight implementations. “When the time comes to introduce screened or unscreened flights in Cold Lake, we must have our plans and infrastructure in place,” he emphasized. “Opportunities in these cases can be fleeting, so it’s essential to take the necessary steps to be ready.”  

The grant marks a significant step toward realizing Cold Lake’s vision of a certified airport capable of accommodating scheduled air services, bolstering connectivity, and fostering economic growth within the region. 

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UPDATE - The Municipal District of Bonnyville has made the decision to downgrade a localized evacuation order to an evacuation alert, while maintaining the State of Local Emergency.

This adjustment follows a thorough assessment the wildfire and prevailing fire conditions. M.D. officials continue to closely monitor the fire's progression and weather conditions.

While immediate threat has been mitigated, residents in the affected area are urged to remain vigilant and prepared for potential evacuation orders. As such, residents are asked to be on standby and ready to evacuate it necessary.

The Municipal District of Bonnyville has declared a State of Local Emergency as of Tuesday afternoon with an escalating wildfire threat in the region. The municipality has also issued a localized evacuation order, with affected residents already notified.  

The blaze, which originate in Cold Lake First Nations on April 22, has rapidly advanced westward into the M.D. of Bonnyville, prompting urgent measures to safeguard lives and property.  

As of the latest update, the wildfire, designated as LIR001, is positioned between Range Roads 432 and 433, situated south of Highway 28, posing an immediate danger to the surrounding area.  

Residents are urged to stay informed and heed evacuation directives through various communication channels. Updates will be disseminated via the M.D’s Voyent Alert! App, the Alberta Emergency Alert App, the M.D. website as well as social media platforms including Facebook @MDBonnyville and X @mdbville.  

In times of crisis staying connected and informed is crucial. Citizens are encouraged to download the M.D’s Voyent Alert! App and set up an account promptly to receive real-time updates and vital information regarding the evolving situation.  

The Municipal District of Bonnyville remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents amidst this wildfire emergency.

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In response to heightened fire risks, the County of St. Paul has announced a comprehensive Fire Ban effective Monday, April 22. The ban encompasses all areas within the county, excluding the Town of St. Paul, which retains autonomy over its restrictions. 

The Fire Ban, implemented by local authorities, imposes strict regulations to prevent open fires that could potentially escalate into unmanageable blazes. Key provisions of the ban include:  

Prohibition of Open Fires: No open fires, including campfires in campgrounds and random camping areas, are permitted within the County of St. Paul. This prohibition extends to charcoal briquettes, turkey fryers, and tiki torches.  

Suspension of Fire Permits: All permits are suspended or cancelled, and no new permits will be issued during the ban.  

Ban on Fireworks and Similar Items: Fireworks, flying lanterns, and exploding targets are strictly prohibited under the Fire Ban.  

Despite the stringent restrictions, certain exceptions are allowed to ensure essential activities can proceed safely. Portable propane fire pits and gas propane stoves designed for cooking or heating purposes are permitted within the ban.  

While the ban is currently in effect throughout the County of St. Paul, the Town of St. Paul remains exempt. However, municipal authorities retain the prerogative to enforce their restrictions should circumstances warrant.  

Authorities urge residents and visitors to adhere strictly to the Fire Ban guidelines to mitigate the risk of wildfires, which could have devastating consequences for property and lives.  

For further information or inquiries regarding the Fire Ban, individuals are encouraged to contact the County of St. Paul at 780-645-3301 or St. Paul Fire Services at 780-645-4100.  

As the fire season progresses, vigilance and cooperation within the community are crucial to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents and visitors in the County of St. Paul.  

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St. Paul RCMP are presently grappling with an uncontrolled fire wreaking havoc in the heart of the community of Goodfish Lake First Nation. With flames raging out of control, the situation has prompted the evacuation of multiple residences in the area.  

Authorities are asking people to stay away from the area so fire and RCMP can focus on battling the fire and keeping residents safe with evacuation.  

The escalating ferocity of the fire has prompted a rapid and coordinated response from multiple fire departments. Among those mobilized in this urgent effort are teams from Goodfish Lake, Mallaig, and Ashmont, all responding to battle the blaze and prevent its further spread.  

As residents wait anxiously and emergency responders work tirelessly, the priority remains on putting out the flames and ensuring the safety of those affected by this unfolding crisis.  

Further updates on the situation are expected as authorities continue their efforts to contain the fire and assess its impact on the community.  

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In a thrilling conclusion to the 2024 Central Canada Cup in Flin Flon, Manitoba, the St Paul Jr. B Canadiens emerged victorious, clinching the championship title after a hard-fought battle against the Saskatoon Royals on Sunday, April 21.  

Representing the North Eastern Alberta Jr. B Hockey League (NEAJBHL), the Canadiens kicked off their campaign with a victory over Manitoba’s Peguis Juniors, defeating them 5-2 in the tournament’s opening round-robin match.  

“As we headed into the tournament, we knew we had to give it our all,” remarked Dean Smyl, General Manager of the St. Paul Canadiens. “And I can’t be any prouder of these boys... we fought through some adversity all week, but the boys left everything on the ice.”  

The Canadiens continued their winning streak as the tournament progressed, triumphing over the opponents. Notable victories include a 6-3 win against the Current River Storm and a dominant 7-0 shutout against the host team, PBCN Selects.  

In their last two pivotal matches, the Canadiens competed against the Saskatoon Royals on Friday, April 19th, clinching the number one seed with a hard-fought 7-5 victory. The following day, Saturday, April 20th, they faced the PBCN Selects in the semi-finals, winning 4-1 and advancing to the finals.  

[gallery ids="39764,39765,39766,39763"]

“The emotions were very high, as you can imagine, and we saw it all the way until the end,” Smyl reflected. “And listen, we didn’t start the line brawl at the end, but we definitely finished it.”  

Advancing to the championship game on Sunday, April 21st, the Canadiens faced off against the Saskatoon Royals again. In a riveting game, the Canadiens displayed their prowess and resolve. Despite a line brawl erupting in the final seconds of the championship game, they emerged victorious with a 3-1 win and were titled the 2024 Central Canada Cup Champions.  

“The most memorable moment for me would definitely be the final game,” said Canadiens defenseman Damian Langevin-Whitford. “The adrenaline rush I got at the end watching my teammates in the line brawl, then seeing Webb come out of his net and fight the Royals goalie. It was electric and a moment I will never forget.”  

Amidst the celebration, the Canadiens were honored at the Central Canada Cup Banquet, with several players receiving accolades for their outstanding performances. Quinn Szpak, William Chemago, and Mitch Webb were named First Team All-Stars, while Jacob Leroux and Kayden Morrison earned Second Team All-Star honors.  

[caption id="attachment_39762" align="alignnone" width="300"] First & Second Team All-Stars | Left to right: Mitch Webb, Quinn Szpak, Kayden Morrison, William Chemago, Jacob Leroux. | Photo supplied from the St. Paul Jr. B Canadiens Facebook Page.[/caption]

Looking ahead, the Canadiens announced a leadership transition for the 2024-2025 season, with Rylan Cardinal set to take on the role of Captain.

[caption id="attachment_39761" align="alignnone" width="300"] Issak Watters passing on the 'C' to Rylan Cardinal for the 2024-2025 season. | Photo supplied from the St. Paul Jr. B Canadiens Facebook page.[/caption]

“Rylan has been a leader since we signed him,” Smyl remarked on Cardinal’s transition. “We know he is going to do a great job next season. He is a player who says it and shows it on the ice.”  

As the Canadiens return home with the Central Canada Cup trophy, they carry the pride and gratitude of their fans, who have steadfastly supported them throughout their quest for glory. “It’s amazing to leave our home province and return as champions with a trophy. We all want to thank the fans who have supported our team on and off the ice since the beginning,” said Langevin-Whitford. 

With their sights set on future triumphs, the St. Paul Jr. B Canadiens stand poised to continue their legacy of excellence on the ice. 

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With warmer weather approaching, Cold Lake residents and visitors eagerly anticipate a diverse array of exciting events set to unfold in the region. From farm-to-table dinners to vibrant music festivals, the summer season promises abundant entertainment and cultural enrichment. Several of these anticipated festivities captured the spotlight at the recent city of Cold Lake council meeting on April 9, as organizers sought help from the city to ensure their success.  

Open Farm Days 

Guy Bonneau introduced the concept of Open Farm Days, a province-wide initiative designed to promote agritourism and rural sustainability. Scheduled for August 17 and 18, the event invites visitors to explore the region’s farms, interact with local producers, and indulge in unique culinary experiences. Bonneau highlighted plans for an unforgettable farm-to-table dinner on the Marina Break Wall, featuring collaboration between farmers and talented chefs to showcase the best of local cuisine.  

Feast at the Beach  

Joanne Roch, Vice-president of the Cold Lake Chamber of Commerce, shared details about Feast at the Beach, stated for Labor Day weekend. This community festival promises a weekend filled with entertainment and culinary delights for all ages, fostering community spirit and attracting visitors from across the province. The Chamber requested $20,000 from the city to support the event and ensure its continued success and growth.  

Fast Lane Connections  

Serina Parsons from the Bonnyville and District Chamber of Commerce introduced Fast Lane Connections, an initiative aimed at revolutionizing networking in the region. Scheduled for June 19 in Cold Lake and June 20 in Bonnyville, this event offers tailored introductions and dynamic networking opportunities for industry leaders and local businesses. Parsons sought sponsorship support from the city council to facilitate the event’s success.  

Mudfest 

Billie Jo Aasen, owner and executive producer of Mudfest, provided updates for this year’s event, following its successful run in 2023. With an impressive lineup featuring bull riding and live music by renowned artists, Mudfest promises excitement for attendees. Aasen requested $20,000 from the city to enhance the event’s overall experience and contribute to its positive impact on tourism.  

The city council expressed interest in supporting the event and will deliberate on the requests at the next council meeting. The decisions made will not only shape the summer calendar but also contribute to the vibrancy and cultural richness of the cold lake community.  

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In the early hours of April 15, both St. Paul and Smoky Lake RCMP responded to reports of a suspicious vehicle trespassing across rural properties in various areas including Smoky Lake county, Bellis, Vilna, and Spedden. The vehicle was quickly identified as stolen for the Wetaskiwin area.

St. Paul RCMP members, patrolling the Spedden area, spotted a pickup truck matching the description of the suspect vehicle parked at a gas station. Upon approaching, four occupants were found inside. Two suspects fled the scene immediately, but the remaining occupants were informed of their arrest. During the apprehension, one suspect assaulted the arresting RCMP officer and attempted to flee on foot. According to authorities after a brief struggle, the suspect was subdued with the assistance of a CEW Conductive Energy Weapon, commonly referred to as a taser.

With assistance from St. Paul Police Dog Services, the two remaining suspects were located hiding on the deck of an abandoned house in Spedden and surrendered without further incident.

The suspects involved hailed for various regions:

• Nathan Vernon Waskewitch a 37-year-old Edmonton resident was charged with obstruction, failure to comply, possession of stolen property, and assault on a police officer.
• Conway Sinclair Moyah a 22-year-old Fishing Lake resident was charged with resisting arrest.
• Robin Faye Strong a 26-yeary-old Maskwacis resident was charged with resisting arrest and failure to comply.
• Tamarah Lee Dillion a 30-year-old Edmonton resident was charged with being unlawfully at large on a parole violation and will be remaining custody.

Waskewitch was remanded into custody with the next court dat of April 18 at the Alberta Court of Justice in Fort Saskatchewan. Moyah was released on conditions and is to appear next on May 9, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Fort Saskatchewan. Strong was released on conditions and is to appear next on May 3, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Fort Saskatchewan.

Sgt. Anita Doktor of the Smoky Lake RCMP expressed gratitude for the collaboration between the two detachments, underscoring the pivotal role of partnership, teamwork, and communication in resolving the incident. "Big thanks to St. Paul RCMP and Police Dog Services for assisting in this occurrence," Sgt. Doktor expressed, highlighting the collaborative efforts that led to the successful resolution of the situation.

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Funding is not the issue when it comes to policing in rural Alberta but rather a boots-on-the-ground problem according to the province.

Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services Mike Ellis says the Alberta RCMP is approved to have 19,011 members, but there are currently only 14,098 leaving just shy of 5,000 spots vacant. Ellis says despite the roles remaining vacant, they are still being paid for.

“The solution on recruitment is with the contract service provider, which is the RCMP," Ellis says.

He adds that the RCMP is working to increase their recruitment by doing things he says they have never done before including attempting to station recruits in their home province if possible. Ellis says by doing this it is helping the RCMP meet the needs of a younger generation. However, even with these recruitment efforts, there are still some areas that do not have 24/7 coverage.

“It is not for a lack of support for the RCMP, and this is not just a problem that they are having in Alberta but throughout Canada.”

Ellis says this is where the province is focusing on augmenting and supporting these rural communities through actions such as Bill 11, the Public Safety and Emergency Service Statutes Amendment Act. An independent police agency would be created through this bill to help augment and support other police agencies in the province through police-like functions that are being performed by the Alberta Sheriffs. He explains this will help so when those in some rural Alberta communities call 911 and there is a sheriff that is five minutes away versus an RCMP officer that is two hours away the sheriff can answer the call.

“You have talked to me about boots on the ground, and officer presence matters, and there are times that in some areas in rural Alberta that there is no coverage and if I know that then you know that those wanting to commit the crimes know that as well.”

As well Ellis explains that municipalities can also apply for a $30,000 grant to examine options for the future of their communities and survey the needs of their community. He says this allows the municipality to decide what is best for their community because it is not as easy as just "writing out a check to fix the issues."

“Grande Prairie kudos to them, they did a very thorough study on what was best for their community. So they saw that they could get more coverage for cheaper and that is why you are seeing them move forward with a Grande Prairie Police Force.”

According to the minister, these measures are areas that the province can focus on to help augment the issues until all the authorized RCMP positions are filled.

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During the April 9 council meeting, the costs and responsibilities associated with cemetery maintenance took center stage as officials addressed the pressing needs of the St. Dominic Cemetery Society. Facing a critical shortage of burial plots for parishioners, the society sought financial support to address the issue.  

Responding to the plea for assistance, council approved a grant of $70,000 to be allocated toward concrete work for headstones and curbs at two cemeteries overseen by the St. Dominic Cemetery Society: Assumption Roman Catholic Cemetery and Saint Dominic Roman Catholic Cemetery. The funding, which can be divided between the two cemeteries as deemed necessary by the society, aims to bolster their infrastructure and ensure continued functionality.  

Mayor Craig Copeland underscored the significance of supporting cemetery maintenance efforts, acknowledging the substantial volunteer efforts required to keep these sacred spaces in proper condition. “A lot of work goes into keeping cemeteries up and running,” Copeland remarked. “There’s a lot of sweat equity that volunteers put in to maintaining these areas of community of which they are looking for a helping hand.”  

The infusion of funds is projected to secure a 10-year plot supply and sale for the cemeteries, effectively extending their operational lifespan for the foreseeable future.  

While the St. Dominic Cemetery Society oversees specific cemeteries, the City of Cold Lake owns and operates two additional cemeteries within the community: The Lakeland Cemetery and the Grand Centre Memorial Park Cemetery. Residents seeking more information on these municipal cemeteries can visit www.coldlake.com/cemeteries.  

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At the latest regular meeting of the city of Cold Lake council, discussions once again centered around amending the city's smoking bylaw to accommodate Indigenous ceremonial practices.  

Kristi Isert, the general manager of corporate services for the city of Cold Lake, spearheaded the presentation, stressing the importance of aligning municipal regulations with provincial legislation concerning the use of smoke products in Indigenous ceremonies.  

Isert commenced the presentation by summarizing discussions from the March 19 Corporate Priorities Committee meeting, where members were briefed on the existing smoking bylaw and exemptions provided under provincial law. The proposed amendment, Bylaw 835-PL24, aimed to permit smoking for Indigenous ceremonial purpose within the city limits.  

Delving into the specifics of the proposed amendment, Isert highlighted the inclusion of definitions for ceremonial practices such as smudging and traditional pipe ceremonies, alongside an exemption clause for Indigenous individuals participating in such activities.  

“Definitions for smudging and traditional pipe ceremonies would be included in the bylaw, as well as an exemption, which would state that the right of Indigenous people respecting traditional Indigenous spiritual or cultural practices of ceremony are exempt from the bylaw and include such practices as the traditional pipe ceremony or smudging,” Isert said.  

Isert emphasized that the exemption would solely extend to active participants in the ceremonies, excluding spectators or onlookers. She also outlined procedural requirements for utilizing the exemption, including providing written notice to the Chief Administrative Officer or designated personnel at least 24 hours in advance.  

“At least 24 hours prior to the use of smoke under the exemption, the written request would be provided to the CAO or designate who would confirm the specific location was appropriate for use, to permit time to notify other users of the facility, disable smoke detectors, sprinklers and or ventilation systems, and provide access to a fire extinguisher, if requires,” Isert detailed.  

Suggesting the possibility of a public hearing before finalizing the bylaw, Isert prompted council members for their input. Coun. Chris Vining raised questions about the necessity of such a hearing, indicating that existing provisions adequately address concerns, thus minimizing the need for further public input.  

“I think the bylaw lays it out fairly clearly,” Vinning stated, underscoring the inclusion of notice being given. Proposing to proceed with the first reading of the amendment, Vinning expressed openness to revisiting the matter for subsequent readings if necessary.  

Vinning made a motion for the first reading of the bylaw, which passed. The bylaw is slated to return to a future meeting for second and third readings, marking a step forward in accommodating Indigenous ceremonial practices within the Cold Lake community.  

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Northern Lights Public Schools (NLPS) is excited to unveil a series of leadership changes within the Cold Lake area and across the division for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year.  

In the Cold Lake area, Jason Whaley, currently Principal of Nelson Heights School, will become Principal of North Star Elementary School. Kim Macleod, presently leading North Star Elementary School will take the helm as Principal of Nelson Heights School. Twila Moore, currently Assisting Principal at Cold Lake Junior High, will assume the role of Assistance Principal at Cold Lake Elementary, and Nicole Coben who is serving as Assistance Principal at North Star Elementary, will transition o Assistance Principal at Cold Lake Junior High.  

Superintendent Rick Cusson emphasized the importance of administrators gaining diverse experience and building strong leadership teams to meet students’ needs and foster environments conductive to learning and growth.  

Also, the division-wide changes include Maureen Ference Current Principal of Glendon School, who will be Principal at Learning Together Anywhere School. Corey Baker, former Principal of Ardmore School and Bonnyville Centralized High School, will assume the position of Principal at Glendon School. Rod Kornelsen, a teacher from Lethbridge, will join NLPS as Assistant Principal at Aurora Middle School and Arin Peoples-Jasman, currently teaching at Vera M. Welsh Elementary School will take on the role of Assistant Principal at Aurora Middle School.  

“We continue to grow leadership capacity in the division by providing our experience administrators with opportunities to grow and take on new challenges as well as providing mentorship and learning opportunities for our new administrations,” emphasized Cusson.  

NLPS announced three Assistant Principal positions in Cold Lake for the upcoming school year, which will be filled following a comprehensive selection process. Stakeholders will be informed once these positions are finalized. 

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Elk Point residents are set to see an increase in property tax bills for the second consecutive year, despite the efforts of the town council to mitigate the rise.  

General Municipal rates on Residential and Farmland will climb from 10.0234 mills to 10.6048 mills, while Non-Residential rates will increase from 22,0080 mills to 23.2845 mills. Additionally, Non-Residential Vacant properties will see a hike from 24.3020 mills to 25.7115 mills.   

The Alberta School Foundation Fund levies will also experience an uptick, with rates for Residential and Farmland rising to 2.5348 mills compared to 2.5412 mills in 2023, and Non-Residential rates climbing to 3.7569 mills from 3.7059 mills. 

Despite last year’s decrease on Designated Industrial Property, which dropped to 0.0746 mills from 0.0766 mills in 2022, this year sees the tax increase back up to 0.0765 mills, just slightly below the 2022 figure. Similarly, the MD of St. Paul Seniors Foundation levy, which dropped last year to 0.2725 mills from 0.4068 mills 2022, has now increased to 0.5043 mills. 

These tax increase adjustments were made following detailed discussions on income and expenses during Elk Point Town council's recent meeting.  

In addition to financial matters, discussions also touched upon the town’s involvement with Elk Point Airport. Despite consideration withdrawing from the airport's operation, the council ultimately voted to rescind the resolution to partner with the County of St. Paul and notify the county and province of their decision to cease operations at the airport as of June 1, 2024.  

Other notable discussions included the approval of the 2024 Operational Budget, which dropped expenses to a 5.8 percent increase from 8.2 percent with the removal of the airport costs. The town also addressed the establishment of the Municipal Controlled Corporation, Elk Point investment corporation, following an oversight from previous approvals.  

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The Cold Lake Regional Utilities Commission (RUSC) has taken a significant step forward in enhancing wastewater treatment infrastructure by awarding a contract to build a new wastewater treatment plant. With shovels set to hit the ground this summer, the $34 million project marks a crucial investment in modernizing treatment processes and ensuring compliance with federal and provincial regulatory requirements.  

Chair of Cold Lake RUSC, Ryan Bailey, emphasized the importance of the project, stating, “Wastewater treatment is one of those things that does not often grab headlines until things go very wrong. This project will modernize our treatment process to bring us well within compliance, despite a very challenging set of circumstances.”  

The new wastewater treatment plant will utilize cutting-edge technology known as a moving bed bio reactor. This innovative process utilizes millions of small polyethylene media to provide a large surface area for biofilm growth. Aeration keeps the media suspended in the wastewater, allowing the biofilm to efficiently treat the water by lowering biochemical oxygen demand and breaking down harmful chemicals. This technology was chosen for its effectiveness and cost-efficiency, utilizing much of the existing plant’s infrastructure and requiring less operation and maintenance than other processes.  

Stringent treatment standards are essential given the high organic load in the Beaver River, where the treated effluent is released. The moving bed bio reactor process underwent successful testing in a pilot project, demonstrating its ability to meet new environmental regulations. The pilot project results are now being utilized by municipalities across Canada that are facing similar challenges.  

Kevin Nagoya, Manager of RUSC, highlighted the financial implications of the project, stating, “While we received some government funding to help, RUSC will need to debt finance part of the facility, and ultimately there will be an impact on utility rates as RUSC must recover its costs.”  

The construction of the new wastewater treatment plant, awarded to Sure-Form Contracting Ltd., is expected to take 24 months to complete and bring online. RUSC, comprised of members from the City of Cold Lake, the Municipal District of Bonnyville, the Department of National Defence, and Cold Lake First Nations, demonstrates a collaborative effort to address critical infrastructure needs and ensure environmental sustainability for the community.  

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The Alberta RCMP Major Crimes Unit is currently investigating a suspicious death that occurred in Goodfish Lake on April 11th. At approximately 6:37 p.m. St. Paul RCMP responded to a report of an injured male at a residence on Main Road in Goodfish Lake. Upon arrival, RCMP discovered a male victim with multiple gunshot wounds. Despite life-saving efforts by EMS, the victim succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.  

The circumstances surrounding the death are being treated as suspicious, prompting the Alberta RCMP Major Crimes Unit to take charge of the investigation. Collaborating with St. Paul RCMP and St. Paul Forensic Identification Services, authorities are diligently working to uncover the incident's details.  

The deceased has been identified as a 28-year-old male, and an autopsy is scheduled for April 15th at the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Edmonton.  

The RCMP seeks public assistance in its efforts to gather information. Individuals who witnessed the incident or have dashcam footage from the area of Main Road in Goodfish Lake on April 11th between 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. are urged to come forward. They can contact St. Paul RCMP at 780-645-8888 or their local police department.  

Those wishing to remain anonymous can provide information through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, online at www.P3Tips.com, or by using the “P3 Tips” app available on the Apple App or Google Play Store.  

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