Airdrie Minute: Tax Increases, Courthouse Closure, and School Board Wards

Airdrie Minute - Your weekly one-minute summary of Airdrie politics

This Week In Airdrie:

• The Community Infrastructure and Strategic Growth Standing Committee will meet on Tuesday at 1:00 pm. The agenda includes a development permit for a childcare center at 313 Main Street NW, an update on the Extended Producer Responsibility program, and a Land Use Bylaw amendment for sign regulations. Key changes to the latter item include simplified sign classifications, updated digital sign standards, and new regulations for signage along Highway 2.
  
  
• The Rocky View Schools Board of Trustees is moving forward with a ward restructuring plan for the next school year. This decision will combine the rural Wards 2 and 4 into one and add an additional trustee to Ward 6 in Cochrane, while keeping the total number of trustees at eight. Despite concerns from some trustees about rural representation, the majority supported the restructuring to reflect the growing urban population.
  
  
• Airdrie’s proposed 2025 budget includes a 7.5% property tax increase. The budget includes funding for the Inspire Airdrie facility, road upgrades, and water system improvements. Businesses will also see tax increases, ranging from $403 to $1,008 annually, depending on size. Budget deliberations will take place in November, with final approval expected soon after.

Last Week In Airdrie:

• Council has approved new energy efficiency standards for municipal buildings, requiring a 25% reduction in energy consumption for new constructions over 600 m². While Tier 4, which offers 60% efficiency and net-zero readiness, was considered, Council chose the less costly Tier 2. Parametric studies, which analyze design options and costs, may be requested for certain projects, including the South West Recreation Facility. Mayor Peter Brown was the only opposing vote, citing concerns about costs.
  
  
• Airdrie ranked 15th in Canada for quality of life according to AreaVibes, with a livability score of 92 out of 100. It holds the top spot among Alberta cities, praised for being family-friendly. The ranking evaluates cities based on nine factors including amenities, crime rates, cost of living, employment, and health services. Despite the high ranking, residents noted areas for improvement, such as public transit and community engagement. What do you think? How livable is Airdrie?
  
  
• The closure of Airdrie's courthouse has been extended, impacting local access to legal services. This decision stems from ongoing renovations aimed at improving the facility's safety and functionality. As a result, residents must travel to neighbouring communities for court-related matters, which has raised concerns about accessibility. All Airdrie court proceedings will be held at the Calgary Courts Centre during this period. The extension comes after an initial closure of 6 weeks, starting back on August 26th.