County Budget Heads to Final Vote; Council Denies Public Updates on Active Investigation
Red Deer County’s Governance & Priorities Committee voted unanimously Tuesday to refer the draft operating budget and capital plan to Council for final consideration.
Why It Matters
This procedural move signals that the county’s financial roadmap for the coming year is nearly finalized. The budget dictates property tax rates and how much money is funneled into local infrastructure, road maintenance, and emergency services. By referring the draft to the full Council, the committee has effectively ended the preliminary debate phase, moving the plan toward a final binding vote.
Resident Concerns and Investigations
While no citizens spoke directly during the meeting, councillors brought forward several pressing issues from their constituents.
Councillor Dana Depalme (Division 3) reported receiving repetitive follow-up inquiries from residents regarding an active investigation. County administration refused to provide status updates, stating that public disclosures are withheld to ensure the integrity of active cases.
Depalme also raised concerns from residents regarding smoke from a burn pile. Administration confirmed that Fire Services responded to the site but determined the smoke levels were a result of current weather conditions rather than a violation of fire safety protocols.
Infrastructure and Expenses
In Division 5, Councillor Carly Hansen sought clarity on service provisions for Glennifer Lake. Administration confirmed that the area’s infrastructure remains privately owned, meaning the county is not responsible for its direct maintenance or upgrades.
Mayor Brent Ramsay initiated a push for increased financial transparency, requesting that administration provide monthly expense updates for all members of Council. Ramsay also noted that the county is preparing a formal letter regarding upcoming electoral boundary adjustments, which could change how residents are represented in future elections.
Closed-Door Sessions
Council spent nearly four hours in closed sessions to discuss two sensitive items:
* CAO Performance Review: A confidential evaluation of Chief Administrative Officer Curtis Herzberg.
* Rural Connect: A project involving the business interests of a third party and advice from officials regarding the county’s economic interests.
No public decisions were made following these sessions, as the topics fall under Access to Information Act (ATIA) protections for personal privacy and business trade secrets.
Other Business
* Minutes Approved: The committee reviewed and approved the minutes from the November 12, 2024, meeting without changes.
* RSVPs: Council reviewed upcoming attendance requirements for regional events.
What’s Next
The draft operating budget and capital plan will now move to a regular Council meeting for a final vote. If approved, the budget will set the tax requisition levels for the next fiscal year. Residents can expect the finalized schedule for the budget vote to be posted on the county’s website in the coming weeks.