In recent council decisions, the Village of Berwyn has approved several key initiatives:
Interim Budget Approval: Council has sanctioned the interim operating expenditures for 2026, effective January 1, 2026. These expenditures are based on the 2025 approved budget and will remain in effect until the final 2026 operating budget and corresponding tax rate bylaw are adopted.
Healthcare Funding Enhancement: The Village has approved a slight increase in annual funding to the Grimshaw Regional Healthcare Attraction and Retention Committee (GRHARC). This boost supports operational costs of the Grimshaw Medical Clinic and the Healthcare Scholarship, encouraging residents to pursue healthcare careers locally.
Regional Investment Advocacy: Berwyn will join Northern Sunrise County and other municipalities in advocating for an Invest Alberta visit to the Peace Region. A letter to MLA and Minister of Municipal Affairs, Dan Williams, will emphasize the importance of considering northern communities in provincial investment planning.
Temporary Emergency Contact Designation: During CAO Jatin Saini’s vacation from December 4, 2025, to January 2, 2026, Finance Assistant Carol Haney will serve as the temporary emergency point of contact, addressing urgent matters and coordinating with staff and council members.
Library Lease Agreement: A new 10-year lease agreement with the Berwyn Municipal Library Board has been approved, detailing the library’s use of specific rooms and shared areas, along with responsibilities for utilities, maintenance, insurance, and access.
Bylaw and Animal Control Services: The Village has entered into a new agreement with Lee Crystal Wilson for bylaw enforcement and animal control services, outlining duties such as complaint response, patrols, animal capture, and reporting requirements.
Pound Care Agreement: An agreement with the Mighty Peace Veterinary Clinic has been approved, specifying daily animal care, kennel maintenance, discharge procedures, and coordination with the Animal Control Officer.
Super Saturday Event: Council discussed plans for Super Saturday on December 6, 2025, expressing gratitude to the Grimshaw and District Chamber of Commerce for organizing the event and to Public Works for preparing a Village of Berwyn float for the parade. Festivities include a Christmas parade, bake sale, photos with Santa, a Farmers’ Market, and more.
These initiatives reflect the Village of Berwyn’s commitment to community development and regional collaboration.
Keith Hopper, Trending 55
