2019 marked a year of ups and downs in Red Deer County. Although the economy and the weather presented us with challenges, there were also many things to be thankful for.
I cannot come close to listing them all, but here are some highlights from a very busy year in Red Deer County.
One major positive for the county was the progress made at the Junction 42 Partnership Rest Area. This marks a major new growth area for businesses, and will no doubt be a welcome addition for truck drivers that were used to stopping in Gasoline Alley. I am happy to report that demand for commercial space in the county remains strong despite the difficulties our economy faces overall.
Speaking of development, we are putting the final touches on a results presentation from the Rural Subdivision Survey. I would like to start by thanking all of you who participated – your feedback will go a long way in determining our long-term plans for development of land presently zoned for agriculture.
This is a great time to make plans for the coming year, and I encourage everyone to check out our recreation programs in 2020. These programs cover a variety of different activities – from yoga to making canned goods, and they have been well received at various community halls across Red Deer County.
In 2019 our talented and dedicated volunteer firefighters made an important switch to “paid on call” firefighters. This puts us in line with many other municipal firefighting services, and recognizes the importance of having a capable and professional fire services department. This capability was put on full display during an amazing fire simulation at Red Deer College this fall.
Despite frigid temperatures, I was proud to show off the county to the entire nation during the Canada Winter Games. The games allowed thousands of people to experience what makes this region great. I heard first hand from many visitors how our warm hospitality helped battle the cold weather.
Speaking of the weather, our operations department had to contend with a wet construction season, but still managed to complete over a dozen paving projects and installed six new bridges across the county. I am so grateful to have staff committed to seeing our road plans through to the finish.
Last, but certainly not least, our agriculture services department was kept busy with maintaining our county road rights-of-way and public spaces.
This, along with a strong conservation program, makes us true leaders among Alberta counties.
I wish all of you a healthy, happy and prosperous new decade!
Jim Wood is the mayor of Red Deer County.
