Bonnyville council has renewed a municipal tax exemption agreement for the Bonnyville & District Chamber of Commerce while discussing the organization’s ongoing role in supporting local business development and regional collaboration.

Council approved the exemption under the Municipal Government Act, continuing support for the Chamber’s operations and community initiatives.

During the discussion regarding the property tax exemption, there were no extensive debates or notable statements of personal opinion from council members, with the matter being handled primarily as a procedural item led by administration.

When the floor was opened for a motion, Councillor Sharun stated:

“Thank you, Deputy Mayor. If there’s no further discussion, I will move that council exempt the property that is owned by the Bonnyville and District Chamber of Commerce… from all property tax… for the years 2026 to 2028 pursuant to the sections of the MGA.”

Council subsequently passed the motion.

Councillors also spoke generally about the importance of maintaining strong working relationships with organizations that advocate for local businesses, economic development and regional partnerships.

The conversation further highlighted the Chamber’s growing involvement in regional networking events and government engagement opportunities.

One of those upcoming initiatives is “Your Region, Your Voice,” a collaborative event hosted by the Bonnyville & District Chamber of Commerce and the Cold Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce.

The event is scheduled for Thursday, May 21, 2026, at GenMec Hall inside the Bonnyville Centennial Centre. Doors open at 5 p.m., dinner begins at 6 p.m. and the panel discussion starts at 7 p.m.

The forum will feature representatives from multiple levels of government, including Lakeland MP Shannon Stubbs, Fort McMurray–Cold Lake MP Laila Goodridge, MLA Scott Cyr, M.D. of Bonnyville Reeve Barry Kalinski, Bonnyville Mayor Elisa Brosseau and Cold Lake Mayor Bob Mattice.

According to organizers, the event is designed to foster open dialogue between community members, businesses and elected officials while giving attendees the opportunity to raise concerns, ask questions and discuss issues affecting the region.

Tickets for the event are available to members of the Bonnyville and/or Cold Lake Chambers of Commerce.