Opinion

As we prepare to celebrate over the holidays, many of us no doubt find ourselves keenly anticipating the chance to unwind with friends and family as well as a glass or two of eggnog.

When I arrived at work last Friday there was a message waiting for me. I was to call my daughter's mother-in-law Nelda Robertson. Nelda, who lives in Red Deer, wanted to drop off something to me before she and husband Donnie went to Calgary.

My father, Alba Wayne Hall Sr. was born in Olds in 1910, I believe on June 18 or thereabouts. His sisters were Mildred, Margaret and Maybert; there was another son who died as a child. I believe my grandfather was also Alba W.

At the Dec. 6 council meeting Red Deer County council passed the 2017 budget that will see expenses exceed income by $5.7 million.

Once again the “little people” of Innisfail have rallied for an important cause and have been heard. Coincidence or not, the CAO is resigning.

I would like to comment on Deputy Mayor Mark Kemball's letter in the Dec. 6 issue of the Innisfail Province. In regards to the comment on reserve funds for the town, credit should be given to prior councils and the previous administration.

Last Saturday, Dec. 3, I went to see the high school musical, The Drowsy Chaperone. I try to go when I can, as the school always puts on an amazing show. This year was no exception.

With general reference to the contents of the Dec. 6 Innisfail Province, Helen Dietz appears entirely focused on the morale of her chosen subordinates in the town office.

I was surprised when I read the following quote in a recent edition of the Innisfail Province: “'I will truly say and honestly from my heart that what is happening in this town is what we have hired her to do,' said Coun.

Any residents who plan for and include in their budgets an annual tax increase won't be surprised by council's decision to approve Sundre's operating budget, which calls for a modest tax hike.