Council decisions at the January 13 meeting touched on land use, roads, community investment, and long-term regional growth, with several approvals that will shape services and development across the municipality.

The following highlights come from the Municipal District of Bonnyville No. 87 Council meeting held January 13, 2026.

Guest Ranch Approved at Outfitter Lodge

Council approved a Discretionary Use Development Application allowing a guest ranch to operate at an existing outfitter lodge. The decision supports tourism-related development in the M.D.

Council also granted a one-year extension for a conditionally approved subdivision application and approved the subdivision of a 2.3-acre parcel from an agricultural quarter section. That parcel will be consolidated with an existing Hamlet single-family residential lot.

Roadway Closures and Licensing Move Forward

Several planning and development bylaws advanced at the meeting.

Council passed Bylaw 1898, allowing for the closure and sale of a roadway. The land will be sold at market value to the adjacent landowner and consolidated into an existing 71.97-acre property.

Second and third readings were given to Bylaw Nos. 1905 and 1906, enabling the M.D. to enter into roadway licensing agreements for grazing and property access.

Council also gave first reading to multiple roadway licensing bylaws. If passed, these agreements would allow municipal land to be used for:

• Grazing

• Agricultural purposes

• Access to oil well and pad sites

• Other approved uses

Long-Term Support Approved for Cancer Support Society

Following a presentation from the Haying in the 30’s Cancer Support Society, Council approved:

• $20,000 per year for five years, starting in 2026

• An in-kind donation of 100 tonnes of gravel per year for the same five-year term

The funding provides stable, long-term support for the charitable organization’s work.

Fire Services Feedback and Regional Advocacy

Council received the Fire Level of Service, 2025 Engagement – What We Heard report from Municipal Affairs as information.

Council also voted to join the Northeast Alberta Alliance for Growth and Opportunity, an organization that advocates for regional investment and economic development. The annual cost is $2,200.

Reeve Barry Kalinski was appointed as the M.D.’s representative for a four-year term, with Deputy Reeve Ben Fadeyiw named as alternate.

New Policy Guides Use of Generative AI

Council adopted Policy No. C-2A.064, establishing guidelines for the municipality’s use of generative artificial intelligence technology. The policy is intended to ensure responsible, transparent use of AI tools within municipal operations.

Snowplow Rebuild Funded

Council approved the reallocation of $190,000 in unused funds from the 2025 Capital Equipment Replacement Budget to support the outfitting of a snowplow rebuild.

Where to Watch and Learn More

Full council agendas, policies, and meeting recordings are available through the M.D. of Bonnyville:

• Council agendas: bit.ly/MDBvilleAgendas

• Council recordings: bit.ly/MDBvilleYouTube

The official Council Highlights document was released January 13, 2026.