Council Meeting Highlights

A special send-off to celebrate the contributions of Brian Allen, CAO is planned for July 11, 2025 that includes a lunch with staff and council and a casual open house for residents, family and friends to attend. July 11 marks Brian’s official last day with the Town of Grimshaw before starting his new role as the CAO for the MD of Peace 135. More details will be provided in the coming days as plans progress.

Alberta Police Funding Model
Council discussed expected changes to the Alberta Police Funding Model, which are projected to result in significant cost increases for municipalities by March 2026. Small municipalities (populations of 5,000 and under) will see at least a 39% rise in provincial policing costs, with no guaranteed improvement in service levels. Council agreed to participate in upcoming engagement and consultation opportunities, to educate and encourage residents to do the same, and continue advocacy efforts with local elected representatives. Deputy Mayor Stacey Messner will attend a panel session with Alberta Government representatives on September 17, 2025 to further these advocacy efforts.

Energy Alberta Presentation
Energy Alberta representatives attended the meeting and presented information on the proposed Peace River Nuclear Power Project. Two potential sites have been identified for the project: one east of Highway 743 and south of Township Road 864 in the County of Northern Lights, and another north of Highway 986 near Township Road 854 and Range Road 203 in Northern Sunrise County. The project would also generate significant economic benefits and thousands of jobs during both construction and operations. Public engagement will continue through open houses, workshops, and community sessions as the project progresses. A well-attended town hall meeting was held in Grimshaw on June 24, 2025 to provide information on the project and gather public feedback. Additional information sessions, workshops, and focus groups are being planned throughout the region as the project progresses as part of the ongoing engagement process. The Town of Grimshaw is part of the Peace Regional Energy Committee, which is comprised of area municipalities including the County of Northern Lights, the Town of Peace River, the MD of Peace and the Northern Sunrise County, who are working together to promote and support energy development in the region.

Celebrating Grimshaw’s Centennial
Council approved up to $1,500 from the Vision 2030 operating reserve to support the development of a logo and promotional branding for Grimshaw’s centennial celebrations. The funding request came from the Vision 2030 Planning Committee following its initial meeting held on June 16, 2025 where committee members reviewed celebration ideas provided by residents. The next committee meeting is scheduled for October 6, where executive positions will be appointed and planning will continue.

Whitelaw Centennial Request

Council approved a request from the Whitelaw Centennial Celebration Committee to provide the use of the Town’s picnic tables for their upcoming 100th anniversary event, taking place August 15–17, 2025, provided the tables are not required for other Town events during that time.

The next Town of Grimshaw Council meeting will be held at 7 pm on July 23, 2025.