Kneehill County had some major accomplishments over 2023. They have significantly increased public consultation and opportunities for ratepayers to have input on county policy and direction regarding the potential for a Three Hills East water system. Successfully lobbying the Province to replace the bridge on Hwy 587 at the Bigelow Dam and to maintain and upgrade their road network, including new asphalt and major culvert replacement near Swalwell.
They have established six working groups and held two working sessions, allowing ratepayers to give input into the ongoing Municipal Development Plan, and hosted an information session on renewable energy.
A project with the Town of Three Hills and Prairie College is in the beginning stages to explore options for efficiency in operation of the Three Hills Airport and trade connections between the airport and local businesses.
The development of Horseshoe Canyon has been and continues to be in discussion with Council and they will be looking at options for the future, including updates to the Horseshoe Canyon Master Plan.
Their ability to plan and budget successfully earned the County the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) award for the third year.
The biggest challenge for Kneehill County in 2023 was the drought affecting their livestock farms. Pasture and feed supplies had varying impacts on crop production, with the greatest impact on the East side of the County. Drought and water supply issues remain a concern for 2024, and the County will be closely monitoring fire hazard conditions due to this worrying issue.
At the end of November, 2022, Deputy Reeve Ken King replaced Jerry Wittstock as acting Reeve of Kneehill County. During his first year, King earnestly accepted and settled into his new role.
“The role of Reeve is an honor for me, and I accepted the role at the request of the former Reeve, Jerry Wittstock, and with the support of the rest of Kneehill County Council. I have the utmost respect for Mr. Wittstock, and his work as the Reeve has allowed Kneehill County Council to develop as a strong team with a very good working relationship with each other and our administration. Being the Reeve is a responsibility that I take seriously, and I have pledged to do my best to serve the Council and County residents,” states King.
