On April 28, members of the Bonnyville RCMP conducted a targeted search warrant at a residence within Kehewin Cree Nation, leading to the discovery of a cache of illicit substances, firearms, and stolen property.  

During the thorough search. Law enforcement uncovered a troubling array of items, including stolen Milwaukee tools, an ATV reported as stolen, pilfered identification documents, two firearms, and a substantial quantity of crystal methamphetamine weighing in at 69.9 grams. Additionally, evidence indicative of drug trafficking activities was found at the scene. 

As a result of the operation, 41-yearl-old Randall Gadwa, a resident of Kehewin Cree Nation, was promptly arrested and charged with, possession of methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking, possession of stolen property exceeding $5000, unlawful possession of firearms, possession of a firearm in a motor vehicle, careless use of a firearm, identity theft, and operation of a motor vehicle while prohibited. 

Following his arrest, Randall Gadwa was presented before a Justice of the Peace, subsequently released from custody, with a scheduled court appearance slated for May 7th in Bonnyville.  

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On April 24, Bonnyville RCMP conducted a routine traffic stop in Kehewin, which quickly escalated when officers reported spotted a firearm in the vehicle, resulting in the arrest of all three occupants. Upon further investigation, police discovered a loaded 12-gauge shotgun, cocaine, and brass knuckles during a search of the vehicle.  

As a result of the incident, RCMP charged the three individuals involved.  

Shaylinn Badger, 28-year-old Cold Lake resident is charged with unlawful possession of a firearm, careless use of a firearm, possession of cocaine, and carrying a concealed weapon. Badger appeared before a Justice of the Peace and has since been released from custody pending further legal proceedings.  

Anthony Delorme, 38-year-old Lac La Biche resident is charged with, unlawful possession of a firearm, careless use of a firearm, possession of cocaine, carrying a concealed weapon, and three counts of possession of a firearm contrary to a prohibition order. Delorme also appeared before a Justice of the Peace but has been remanded in custody as the legal process continues.  

Kirkland Wells, 26-year-old Cold Lake resident, is charged with unlawful possession of a firearm, careless use of a firearm, possession of cocaine, and carrying a concealed weapon. Like Badger, Wells appeared before a Justice of the Peace and was released from custody pending further proceedings.  

The arrests and charges underscore the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to maintain public safety and combat illegal activities within the community. Bonnyville RCMP continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.  

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Bonnyville town council has greenlit its 2024 capital and operating budgets, opting to maintain a two percent tax increase while prioritizing economic development and essential services.  

Presenting the budget during the town's regular council meeting on April 23, Chief Administrative Officer Bill Rogers expressed optimism about Bonnyville’s economic outlook. “These last two years have seen improvements in our local economy and the future of Bonnyville Looks very bright, “Rogers said. “Budget 2024 will continue our longstanding practice of providing high-quality services to residents as efficiently as possible.”  

The budget, reflective of the council’s strategic priorities, underscores the town’s commitment to economic development and tourism. Rogers highlighted the importance of financial stability, attributing it to revenue sharing agreements and prudent financial planning.  

“The 2024 proposed final operating budget is a balanced budget based on changes from the interim budget,” Rogers explained. “The transfer from the operating reserve required to balance the interim operating budget was $444,037, which has now increased to $666,591 in this final draft of the budget.”

The proposed two percent tax increase, consistent with the interim budget, is expected to yield slightly higher municipal tax revenue due to assessment growth resulting from new developments. The budget also accounts for adjustments in school tax requisitions, resulting in a net increase for residential properties and a decrease for non-residential properties.  

Some notable changes in the budget include provisions for events, membership fees, and infrastructure projects such as the Jessie Lake Lowering Project and the Retail Gap Analysis.  

The council emphasized the importance of maximizing cost savings across all departments, with staff undertaking a comprehensive review to identify areas for efficiency improvement throughout the year.  

In the capital budget adjustments were made to reflect actual tender amounts for projects, resulting in increased funding for core infrastructure projects while maintaining budget balance.  

Total revenue for capital projects is estimated at $21.9 million, inclusive of grant funding transfers and debenture funding.  

Following the presentation, the council motioned to approve both the operating and capital budgets for 2024, affirming their commitment to fiscal responsibility and community development.  

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In the early hours of April 25th, Bonnyville RCMP received a distress call reporting a robbery in a convenience store parking lot.  

Two assailants, spewing racial slurs, targeting a male of Southeast Asian descent, pelting him with verbal abuse and a Slurpee drink before escalating to physical violence. Despite the altercation, one suspect attempted to assault the victim while the other fled with the victim’s vehicle, subsequently setting it on fire a short distance away.  

Bonnyville RCMP responded promptly and thoroughly investigated the incident, apprehending the perpetrators at a nearby hotel. Following their arrest, a search warrant was executed, further aiding the investigation.  

Charges have been laid against 30-year-old Kyle Ironeagle of Fishing Lake, Alberta, and 24-year-old Bryton Stacey of Brantford, Ontario. Both individuals face charges of robbery, arson, theft of vehicle, and mischief over $5000. After a bail hearing, both were released by a Justice of the Peace and are scheduled to appear in Bonnyville Provincial Court on May 21.  

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The Bonnyville RCMP executed a search warrant on April 25th at a rural property situated on Range Road 452 near Township Road 621, suspecting the presence of stolen property.  

As officers approached the property, a vehicle attempted to flee but was swiftly intercepted a short distance away. Upon inspection, the driver was found to be under the influence of drugs, with a subsequent search revealing possession of a controlled substance.  

The search warrant proved the uncovering of stolen trailers, a significant quantity of pilfered copper wire on the premises, and several prohibited firearms inside the residence. Four individuals were apprehended in total, with charges laid against two males identified as 37-year-old Dakota Masson and 48-year-old Jason Nunweiller, both residents of Cold Lake.  

Both individuals face charges of possessing stolen property over $5000 and two counts of altering or destroying a VIN. Masson faces additional charges, including unauthorized possession of a firearm, possession of a prohibited firearm, eight counts of possession of a weapon contrary to order, and possession of cocaine. Furthermore, Masson received Provincial Sanctions for impaired driving, resulting in the seizure of the vehicle he was operating for 30 days. Both accused were remanded in custody pending their initial court appearance.  

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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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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 the alarming surge of catalytic converter thefts sweeping across Alberta, Bonnyville and St. Paul RCMP have joined forces with the Alberta Motor Association (AMA) and Kal Tire to launch the innovative “Tag your Cat” initiative.  

Acknowledging the severity of this crime trend, law enforcement agencies are taking proactive steps to curb the thefts, which often occur due to vehicles being left vulnerable to opportunistic criminals.  

The “Tag your Cat” program empowers Albertans to protect their vehicles by bringing them to Kal Tire locations in Bonnyville and St. Paul to have their catalytic converters etched with vehicle identification numbers. This engraving serves as a crucial identifier, aiding law enforcement in recovering stolen converters and providing vital evidence for ongoing criminal investigations.  

Residents can safeguard their vehicles against this pervasive threat for a nominal fee of $40 per vehicle, or $40 for the first catalytic converter and $20 for the second in vehicles equipped with two converters.  

Authorities say catalytic converter thefts, often perpetrated under the cover, are opportunistic crimes that can be prevented through vigilant preventive measures.  

- Engrave your vehicle’s VIN on the catalytic converter to facilitate identification and alert scrap metal dealers to its stolen status.  

- Opt for well-lit parking areas close to building entrances whenever possible. 

- Secure vehicles within garages, ensuring all doors are locked.  

- Business owners should secure vehicles behind locked fences or within locked buildings.  

- Activate car alarms to detect any suspicious vibrations. 

- Report any unusual activity to local law enforcement, such as individuals loitering near vehicles.  

While these thefts are more prevalent in urban areas, Staff Sergeant Parke of the Bonnyville RCMP and Staff Sergeant Burgess of the St. Paul RCMP emphasize the importance of rural residents participating in the “Tag your Cat” initiative, as catalytic converter thefts are not confined to urban areas.  

For more information on AMA’s efforts to safeguard vehicles from theft, visit their website at ama.ab.ca.  

Community members are urged to report any information related to property crimes to the Bonnyville RCMP at 780-826-3358 or the St. Paul RCMP at 780-645-8870. Alternatively, individuals can remain anonymous by contacting Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8444 (TIPS), submitting tips online at www.P3Tips.com or utilizing the “P3 Tips” app available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.  

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As spring brings warmer weather and clearer roads, the Bonnyville RCMP reminds motorists to adhere to speed limits on highways and rural roads for the safety of all travellers. 

In Alberta, standard speed limits are established for different types of roadways to ensure safe travel. Unless otherwise indicated by signage, the following speed limits apply:  

• 100 km/h on provincial highways located outside urban areas 
• 80 km/h on provincial highways located within city limits 
• 80 km/h on rural roads outside urban areas 
• 50 km/h on roads within urban areas unless otherwise posted 

Sergeant Parke of the Bonnyville RCMP emphasizes the importance of reducing speed, especially on rural roads with unique risks such as livestock crossings, wildfire encounters, unmarked intersections, blind curves, and varying road surfaces. Parke states, “Our rural roadways have enough potential hazards without adding the dangers involved with speeding.”  

In 2023, the Bonnyville Detachment jurisdiction saw over 500 tickets issued to motorists for speeding violations. Fines and demerits for speeding offenses vary based on the extent of the violation:  

• Exceeding the speed limit by up to 15km/h results in 2 demerits and fines up to $126.  
• Speeding by 16 to 30km/h results in 3 demerits and fines up to $249. 
• Exceeding the speed limit by 31-50km/h results in 4 demerits and fines up to $495.  

Fines are doubled when construction workers or emergency responders are in the area.  

To prevent speeding incidents, the RCMP advises motorists to plan their travel routes to allow sufficient time, minimize driving distractions, and remain vigilant of posted speed limits, especially in playground and construction zones.  

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The town of Bonnyville has made a significant step forward in enhancing its community recreational facilities with Stantec's approval to complete a comprehensive Community Recreation Plan for the Lakeshore Drive Park area. This decision was reached despite Stantec's bid being higher than the other two competing companies. 

During the March 26 Town of Bonnyville council meeting, administrators presented compelling reasons favoring Stantec’s selection. Not only has the municipality previously collaborated with Stantec, but the company also secured the highest score in the Request for Proposal evaluation process. 

Stantec’s proposal stood out due to its superior commitment to deliverables and the quality of work promised. Mayor Elisa Brosseau highlighted Stantec’s apparent knowledge of nearby Jessie Lake, reinforcing the company’s understanding of the local landscape. 

Although the council initially allocated $75,000 for the recreation plan, the total cost for engaging Stantec’s services is $77,000, with the additional funds sourced from the general capital budget. 

The information presented during the meeting stated, “The purpose of this plan is to achieve the council’s vision and have a forward-thinking view of possible recreational or cultural upgrades that residents want along the Lakeshore Drive Park area.” 

The selected firm, Stantec, will be entrusted with a comprehensive range of tasks, including conducting a residential survey, hosting stakeholder engagement sessions and community workshops, developing a conceptual plan, and facilitating additional rounds of engagement to review the proposed plan with stakeholders and the community.  

“Administration is of the opinion that Stantec’s previous environmental analysis on Jessie Lake will benefit the process and keep engagement outcomes realistic and achievable from a regulatory perspective,” affirmed the presented information.  

The council unanimously voted to proceed with Stantec for the project, reflecting their confidence in its capabilities.  

“I’m really excited to get this project going,” expressed Mayor Brosseau, echoing the sentiments of the council and the broader community eagerly anticipating the enhancements to Lakeshore Drive Park.  

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At a recent regular council meeting, the Town of Bonnyville council expressed disappointment upon learning their application for federal funding to support the construction of a new Aquatics Centre was unsuccessful. The funding was sought through the Government of Canada’s Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) program. 

This setback marks a significant development in the ongoing efforts to establish a new Aquatics Centre in the area. Since 2018, stakeholders including residents from the town and the M.D. of Bonnyville, elected officials, and planning staff have been actively engaged in the planning process for the facility.  

Town of Bonnyville Mayor Elisa Brosseau conveyed her disappointment but remained determined in her resolve. 

“Although the federal government was not in favor of funding us at this time, we’re still exploring different avenues for funding to be put towards making a Bonnyville Aquatics Facility a reality. We know this is something our residents want, and we will look at every avenue we have available to us to find funding to get a project moving ahead,” said Brosseau. 

Despite the setback, council reassured residents that the project was not shelved. They emphasized their commitment to pursuing alternative funding options to ensure progress toward the construction of the much-needed Aquatics Centre in Bonnyville.  

Residents anticipating the development of the Aquatics Centre are urged to stay informed as further updates on the project will be forthcoming. Council says they remain "steadfast" in their dedication to fulfilling the community’s desire for enhanced recreational amenities, including the establishment of a modern Aquatics Centre in Bonnyville.  

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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. 

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Residents of Bonnyville and surrounding areas are advised that the Bonnyville Health Centre will temporarily suspend service on Saturday, March 23.  

From 7:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., the health center will upgrade its electrical system, necessitating minimal lighting and reliance on a backup generator for power. This may result in some service disruptions during the specified period. 

While the emergency department will remain open throughout the upgrade, services for obstetric patients may be altered. The operating room may be closed during the backup generator operation, and obstetric patients may be redirected to Cold Lake for necessary care.  

Visiting hours will be maintained during the upgrade, but visitors should plan their visits after the upgrades are completed at 5:00 p.m. on March 23.  

The upgrade work is expected to be completed within the day, with the possibility of the additional time required on Sunday, March 24. If an extension is necessary, further notifications will be disseminated.  

Once the upgrade is finalized, all services at the Bonnyville Health Centre will resume as normal, ensuring residents’ continued access to essential healthcare facilities. 

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The Bonnyville RCMP has been busy tackling a series of vehicle-related incidents, with investigations into multiple thefts unfolding over the past week.

Between February 23 and March 1, the Bonnyville RCMP handled 133 investigations, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in the region.

In the most recent incident, which occurred overnight on February 28th, an SUV vanished from the 4100 block of 43 Ave. However, the vehicle’s disappearance took a sinister turn when just two hours later, RCMP were called to Range Road 475, five miles northwest of Iron River, where an SUV had been engulfed in flames. While awaiting confirmation from the K Division Auto Theft section, authorities suspect that the torched vehicle is the same one reported stolen earlier that night.

Further complicating matters, on February 26th at 1:30 a.m. a truck and trailer were stolen from the yard of a local business situated West of Bonnyville. The stolen items include a 2019 white Ford F250 bearing Alberta license plate CNV 2626, and a black Double A trailer identified by Alberta license plate 6EF892.

Considering these incidents, Bonnyville RCMP urges anyone with information regarding these vehicle thefts to come forward. Residents with information can contact the Bonnyville RCMP at 780-343-7200.

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The town of Bonnyville is gearing up to conduct a municipal census in the coming months to gather accurate population data through a comprehensive survey initiative.

Renee Stoyles, the General Manager of Corporate Services for the town of Bonnyville, confirmed that the census will take place from May 1 to July 31, utilizing both an online platform and door-to-door enumerators.

“We aim to contact and survey all residential properties,” stated Stoyles, highlighting the inclusive nature of the census. She noted that the decision to conduct the census is at the council’s discretion, with the last one completed in 2017.

The census's main purpose, as outlined by the town of Bonnyville, is to ensure precise population counts. Accurate population data is crucial for planning community services, including core infrastructure and value-added amenities like recreation facilitates and parks.

To facilitate the census process, the 2023 interim operating budget for the town of Bonnyville allocates $45,000. This funding will support various aspects of the census, including Bonnyville’s shadow population.

Stoyles explained that the shadow population encompasses temporary residents employed by industrial or commercial establishments within the municipality. These individuals must have worked at least 120 hours for their employer in the three-month period leading up to Census Day.

Reflecting on the previous census, Stoyles mentioned a slight decline in population figures from 6,422 to 6.404. The upcoming census aims to capture demographic shifts and accurately represent Bonnyville’s population.

As the town prepares for the census initiative, residents are encouraged to participate actively through the online platform or by cooperating with door-to-door enumerators. By contributing to the census, residents play a vital role in shaping the community's’ future development and provision of services.

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The 2024 Bonnyville RCMP Community Engagement initiative has wrapped up, with residents from various areas participating to voice their policing concerns directly to the Detachment Commander S/Sgt. Sarah Parke.

One notable concern highlighted the need for additional patrols at a particularly hazardous intersection, where improper lane use poses significant risks to motorists. This concern resonated with many residents, emphasizing the importance of enforcing traffic safety measures to prevent accidents.

Another pressing issue brought to light was the presence of an unhoused population, many of whom suffer from addiction and mental health issues, leading to concerns about rising violence within the community. While addressing these complex societal issues falls beyond the RCMP's jurisdiction, they emphasized the importance of community support services and legislative measures to tackle these challenges effectively.

Theft of motor vehicles in the Lakeland area was also a topic of discussion, prompting discussions on preventative measures such as Operation Cold Start and the use of RCMP bait vehicles to deter criminal activity. Additionally, concerns about rising car insurance rates due to vehicle thefts underscored the need for community safety measures and enhanced law enforcement efforts.

In response, the RCMP reiterated the importance of community involvement in crime prevention, urging residents to adopt responsible vehicle ownership practices to mitigate the theft risk. While committed to addressing concerns, factors like detachment size and insurance rates fall outside the RCMP's jurisdiction.

Overall, the engagement provided a valuable opportunity for dialogue between residents and law enforcement, highlighting ongoing efforts to ensure community safety in Bonnyville and surrounding areas. Residents are encouraged to continue engaging with the RCMP to address policing concerns and contribute to building a safer community.

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While many families across Alberta enjoyed Family Day weekend with traditional activities, an unexpected event unfolded. A mother-daughter duo, accompanied by a family friend, found themselves on the wrong side of the law after allegedly stealing an RCMP bait truck on February 16, at 2 PM.

The Bonnyville RCMP received an alert that the RCMP bait truck had been stolen somewhere in Bonnyville. Utilizing GPS tracking, law enforcement quickly located the truck and initiated pursuit. Three occupants were observed inside the stolen vehicle as it headed eastbound on Highway 659.

A swift response from law enforcement led to the deactivation of the truck's engine remotely, forcing the driver to pull over several miles down the road. As the occupants attempted to flee, officers sprang into action. While the male and female passengers were apprehended just steps from the vehicle, the female driver dashed into the bushes.

Cold Lake Police Dog Services were on the scene and swiftly tracked down the fleeing female. She was identified as 44-year-old Jennifer Fiddler of Cold Lake and taken into custody without further incident. Fortunately, no injuries were reported during the apprehension of the suspects.

Jennifer Fiddler faces a litany of charges, including Possession of a Stolen Truck over $5000, resisting arrest, driving while prohibited, and multiple counts of Failing to Comply with a Release Order. Her daughter, 18-year-old Shyann Fiddler, is charged with Possession of a Stolen Truck over $5000. Additionally, 49-year-old Kelly Janvier of Cold Lake First Nations faces charges of possessing a stolen truck over $5000 and failing to comply with a release order.

Following bail hearings before a Justice of the Peace, Jennifer Fiddler and Kelly Janvier were remanded in custody until February 20th. Shyann Fiddler, however, was released from custody and is scheduled to appear in court on March 5.

S/Sgt. Sarah Parke emphasized the seriousness of vehicle thefts, stating, “Vehicle thefts are a concern for members of the community and police alike.” She highlighted the RCMP’s proactive measures, including the deployment of bait vehicles across various communities in Alberta. Remarkably, this incident marks the second time in six weeks that the bait truck has been stolen in Bonnyville.

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On February 2, the Bonnyville RCMP, in partnership with the Alberta RCMP’s Community Safety and Well-Being Branch, organized an auto theft awareness meeting at the Bonnyville and District Centennial Centre. The event aimed to engage the community in discussions about protecting their property and reducing vehicle thefts.  

Residents received valuable insights from the RCMP on steps they can take to safeguard their vehicles. Additionally, steering wheel locking devices and RFID blocking pouches were distributed to assist residents in securing their vehicles effectively.   

Auto theft remains a significant issue in Alberta, with pickup trucks being the most targeted vehicle. According to St/Sgt. Luke Halvorson of the Alberta RCMP Community Safety and Wellbeing Branch, there were 8,000 reports of auto thefts across the province last year alone, many of which could have been prevented by implementing simple safety measures.   

The Alberta RCMP provided the following tips to help ensure vehicle safety.  

• Always lock your vehicle's doors, especially when it's running.  
• Never leave keys in an unattended vehicle. 
• Utilize steering wheel clubs as a deterrent against theft.  
• Remove valuables from your vehicle or store them out of sight. 
• Keep your garage locked and avoid storing garage door openers in your vehicle.  
• Park in well-lit areas where your vehicle is visible or consider installing a vehicle tracking system.  

S/Sgt. Sarah Parke of the Bonnyville RCMP highlighted the local impact, revealing that since January 2023, there have been 190 instances of vehicle theft and 73 instances of theft from vehicles. By engaging with the community and providing resources, the RCMP aims to significantly reduce these numbers.  

This event represents part of an ongoing effort by the RCMP to raise public awareness about vehicle safety in Alberta. For more information on preventing vehicle theft, residents are encouraged to follow the RCMP on Facebook at RCMPinAlberta and X at RCMPAlberta and use #JoinTheClub.  

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Alberta's top junior athletes, coaches, and spectators are eagerly anticipating the 25th Alberta Winter Games in 2026, set to take place in the M.D. of Bonnyville, City of Cold Lake, Town of Bonnyville, and the Village of Glendon. Athletes aged 11 to 16 will compete in various sports, including ringette, hockey, and speedskating, highlighting the province's rich athletic talent.

Minister of Tourism and Sport, Joseph Schow, expressed his support stating, “We are proud to support opportunities that celebrate the achievements of our young athletes, offering them a platform to compete and realize their athletic potential.”

Scott Cyr, MLA for Bonnyville, Cold Lake, and St. Paul, affirmed the readiness of the host communities, noting, “Our exceptional recreation infrastructure and warm hospitality will leave athletes, coaches, parents, and technical officials with a desire to keep coming back.”

With preparations underway, the Alberta government has pledged an $820,000 operating grant to assist in covering essential expenses. Barry Kalinski, reeve of the M.D. of Bonnyville, emphasized the significance of collaboration among municipalities in hosting the games.

Leadership from the host municipalities, including Craig Copeland, mayor of the City of Cold Lake, and Elisa Brosseau, mayor of the town of Bonnyville, echoed their enthusiasm for showcasing the region's facilities and community spirit.

Nicholas Werstiuk, mayor of the Village of Glendon, expressed excitement for the event, stating, “We look forward to seeing athletes and their families from all over the province, making memories, achieving goals, receiving medals, and even possibly getting a picture next to the world’s largest perogy.”

The 2026 Alberta Winter Games will build upon the event’s legacy of excellence since 1976, reinforcing Alberta’s commitment to athletic development and community engagement.

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The town of Bonnyville is delighted to announce the successful completion of the Jessie Lake Trail Lighting Project, making a significant milestone in the community's recreation development.  

Mayor Elisa Brosseau expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “We’re excited to see our vision of a well-lit Jessie Lake Trail come to life. This is a significant step in our community recreation plan, has been a long-term goal for the town, and will allow residents to enjoy its beauty at any hour.” 

The project, centered around the Jessie Lake area Recreation plan, aims to enhance safety and promote a wide range of outdoor activities. Recognized as a top priority for the Town Council's wellness initiatives, the comprehensive lighting project unfolded in three phases over two years.  

The initial phase, completed last year, saw the successful illumination of the stretch from 66 St. To Gurneyville Road. This year’s efforts focused on lighting the section from Gurneyville Road to 38 St., with additional installations at critical points such as the recreation area, toboggan hill at Pontiac Park, and the outdoor fitness area. The total investment for this transformative initiative amounted to approximately $1 Million.  

Completing the Jessie Lake Trail Lighting project underscores the town’s dedication to fostering an active, vibrant community. It aligns with its broader vision of creating spaces that promote a healthy and engaged lifestyle.  

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