The following is a synopsis of what occurred during the Sept. 1 District of Sparwood council meeting.

COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE

Development Cost Charges Bylaw

Council reviewed the proposed Development Cost Charges (DCC) Bylaw and after discussion, supported proceeding with a DCC program to help ensure future growth contributes toward infrastructure costs rather than relying solely on existing taxpayers.

The committee directed staff to:

• Proceed with the DCC Bylaw.
• Cap residential DCCs at a maximum of $10,000 per unit, using the municipal assist factor to phase in the charges.
• Keep the Sparwood Drive Sewer Extension as an eligible DCC-funded project.
• Remove the Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrades as an eligible DCC project.
• Change the light industrial DCC calculation from parcel area to gross floor area.
• Ensure installment payment options are available for all DCCs.
• Delay implementation until six months after bylaw adoption.

These changes will now be incorporated into future bylaw revisions for council’s consideration.

Solid Waste Collection Discussion and Direction

Council continued discussions regarding solid waste collection, wildlife attractants, and bear activity within the community.

Following committee discussion, council directed staff to prepare a Terms of Reference for a Committee of Council to discuss solid waste management and wildlife attractants. The committee would support future work related to attractant management and related community concerns.

This direction builds on ongoing discussions regarding garbage collection practices, bear activity, public education, and long-term wildlife attractant management strategies in Sparwood.

BUSINESS

Strategic Priorities Update

Council approved the September 2026 Strategic Priorities Chart. The update reflects progress on major corporate initiatives and emerging priorities facing the community. Among the current corporate priorities are Wastewater Treatment Plant construction, Development Cost Charges Bylaw, Solid Waste Management, Zoning Bylaw update, and the Centennial Plaza Stage and Washroom project.

UPCOMING MEETINGS

Tuesday, September 15 – Youth Advisory Commission Rescheduled at Sparwood Secondary School at 11:30 a.m.

Tuesday, October 6 – Regular Meeting of Council

Tuesday, October 20 – Regular Meeting of Council

Tuesday, November 3 – Inaugural and Regular Meeting of Council.

All meetings are held at 6 p.m. in Council Chambers at the Municipal Office (136 Spruce Avenue), unless otherwise noted.

e-KNOW file photo

District of Sparwood

Article Share