Year in Review: 2023

As we step into the New Year, it's important to reflect on the milestones and achievements that have shaped Lacombe County in 2023. This year has been marked by significant progress across all County departments, all contributing to the betterment of our community.

Operational Excellence and Community Development

Our Operations team has been instrumental in enhancing the County's infrastructure. Key projects included the meticulous upkeep of our trail system, the construction of a new parking lot at Burns Nature Park, and the paving of Sandy Point Trail. Lacombe County also worked with community members in the Hamlet of Mirror to establish the Mirror Walking Trail, which consists of natural trails as well as existing sidewalks and roadways.

A noteworthy venture was establishing a tree farm, a staff-generated idea from the Lacombe County Innovation Initiative. Another idea from this initiative is the approval of wheelchair-accessible matting at Sandy Point Beach. Installation of the matting will take place in spring 2024.

In road construction, our skilled crew reconstructed 17.7 km of road, while our gravel team diligently resurfaced 626 km of gravel roads. These efforts ensure safe and smooth transportation for our residents.

The shop staff have been busy fabricating new equipment and maintaining equipment in use. New arrivals require work to customize units for their intended use, and some of these rig-up projects include tractors, pickup trucks, and scrapers.

Planning and Community Development

The Planning Services team has had a busy year, processing over 178 development permit applications with an estimated construction value of nearly $40 million and 30 subdivision applications. The adoption of two Area Structure Plans (ASP), being the South of Highway 11 (East of Haynes) ASP and in Southeast Bentley ASP, followed extensive community consultation. These plans pave the way for future development and community enhancement.

Additionally, significant progress has been made on the QEII West ASP and the Lacombe County/Village of Alix Intermunicipal Development Plan. Engaging the community in discussions about dwellings in the agricultural area has been a focus. This focus reflects our commitment to inclusive planning.

Our new economic development officer, Kerrie Taylor, has been active in securing grants for various projects. A highlight is the development of a video series showcasing the vibrancy and appeal of Lacombe County, which will be coming out in early 2024.

Community Services in the Community

Community Services hosted the largest Farm Safety Day to date, educating 320 children about vital farm safety practices. Also, our inaugural Wetland Day and the distribution of 160 trees for environmental sustainability are testaments to our commitment to ecological awareness and conservation.

In collaboration with Wolf Creek Public Schools, Lacombe County received a Friends of Education Award, acknowledging our involvement in the School Resource Officer Program. The implementation of the 2023-2026 Traffic Safety Plan, supporting the 'Vision Zero' initiative, underscores our dedication to ensuring the safety of our residents and roadways.

Corporate Services and Technological Advancements

This year, Corporate Services coordinated new aerial pictography, benefiting all County departments. Major upgrades to the County’s IT network and cybersecurity were accomplished, fortifying our digital infrastructure. The Finance team introduced new budget and investment policies, reflecting our commitment to fiscal responsibility.

A significant step towards modernization was taken by the Assessment department, transitioning towards a more digitized system and moving away from paper records.

The launch of the new Lacombe County website, a collaborative effort involving every department, has been a significant success, receiving positive feedback from the community.

This year saw many achievements and steadfast progress for all our departments. From enhancing our infrastructure and planning for future growth to fostering community engagement and prioritizing safety, every initiative has been a step towards a brighter future for our County. The collaborative effort across all departments has not only improved the quality of life for our residents but also sets a strong foundation for the years to come.

As we welcome 2024 with optimism, Lacombe County remains committed to innovation, excellence, and the continued pursuit of a vibrant and thriving community. Success grows here!