By Amy Cardozo

Summer is in full swing, and we’ve been spoiled with some incredible weather. It’s been wonderful to see so many people out enjoying our parks, trails, community events, and everything Sparwood has to offer.

If you haven’t made it to the Sparwood Market yet, I highly recommend checking it out. It’s a great place to support local vendors while picking up everything from fresh produce and baking to handmade crafts and unique gifts. Every dollar spent there stays closer to home and helps support local families and small businesses. The market runs every Friday from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. until the first week of September.

One of the highlights of the past month was our Canada Day and Volunteer Appreciation celebration. This year, we decided to try something a little different. Instead of the usual burgers and hot dogs, we served sandwiches, fresh fruit, and vegetables, as well as cupcakes. I wasn’t sure how people would respond, but the feedback was fantastic. So many people told us they appreciated having healthier options. Thank you to everyone who helped organize the day and to the volunteers who continue to make our community such a great place to live.

Council also made progress on Fire Services Amendment Bylaw No. 1375, 2026. The proposed amendment updates the District’s Fire Services Bylaw to better align with current provincial legislation and operational practices.

One change that many homeowners will appreciate is the proposed removal of annual permits for backyard fire pits. If the bylaw is adopted, a permit would only be required when a fire pit is first approved. After that, it would not need to be renewed each year unless the property changes ownership or the fire pit is modified. It’s a small change that reduces paperwork while continuing to support community safety.

The proposed bylaw also allows for the rental of the Fire Training Centre and Reserve Engine, and updates fire service boundaries along Highway 3 to improve service delivery and support cost recovery for highway-related emergency responses.

These changes are intended to improve administrative efficiency, enhance transparency, and better reflect current operational needs. The bylaw has now received its first three readings and will return to council at a future meeting for final consideration and adoption.

I’d also like to provide an update on the Recreation Facilities Advisory Committee, also known as RFAC. The committee has completed its work and prepared a recommendation that will be presented to council at a future meeting.

I know many people are interested in this topic, so I want to be clear that no decisions have been made. Council has not yet debated the recommendation or chosen a direction. That discussion will take place at an upcoming council meeting, where the committee’s recommendation will be carefully considered before any decisions are made.

As always, thank you for staying informed, supporting local, and taking pride in our community. I hope you continue to enjoy everything summer has to offer, and I look forward to seeing many of you around Sparwood in the weeks ahead.

e-KNOW file photo

– Amy Cardozo is a District of Sparwood Councillor and is currently acting Mayor following the departure of David Wilks.

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