A concern raised about recycling has the town looking for more information from the contractor.
At council’s meeting on July 16, Coun. Darren Pearson brought forward the issue from a resident that stated the recycling was going into the same truck as the garbage. He added the complaint goes back a few months, to before the pandemic began, and is similar to stories heard previously.
“Though, if that is the case, I’m not sure what can be done as it’s not like we can monitor it,” he said.
Mayor Penny Shantz had also heard complaints about the company contracted by the town at a recent mayors and reeves meeting in Red Deer.
Coun. Rob McDonald has heard that it just isn’t cost-effective to collect recycling in many areas, but that something had changes very recently as the recycling is being collected separately now.
“In reality though, it is a service we are not paying for as the company approached us to do it,” he said.
CAO Theresa Fuller explained that there has since been a change in ownership at the contracted company, and that the town had been notified that the recycling was being taken to the landfill because of the pandemic.
Coun. Rosella Peterman suggested administration check in with the contractor to get specific information on what is happening in order to clear things up for residents.
Council agreed and a report will come back to council later this month.
Buy local
Council passed a proclamation that declares Aug. 10 to 16 as Alberta Local Food Week in Bashaw. The motion is a result of a request from the Food Artisans of Camrose County — a group of area producers and processors that promote local products.
The week includes contests and visits to area farmer’s markets to showcase the various local items available. More information can be found by going to their Facebook page.
In addition, Local Food Week coincides with Alberta’s Open Farm Days on Aug. 15 and 16 — an event that features producers and restaurants around the province through tours and other activities. To find out more and to see what may be going on near you, click on www.albertafarmdays.ca.
Water
Shantz and Peterman teamed up to provide an update to council on the last Highway 12/21 Regional Water Commission meeting held on June 30.
Shantz explained that some thing good may come on water pricing in the future, as Camrose County has brought forward a request from the Silver Creek golf course to be connected to the water line in order to access a stable potable water supply.
“That may well help with the cost that we pay, as the more water used means a lower base cost,” she said.
“That said, there was also a lengthy discussion held again over Edberg’s request to leave the commission given there serious financial situation.”
Peterman added to the details, stating Camrose County wants Edberg to stay, most due to the fact it would cost the county more in water and other fees.
“As well, the 2020 water rate bylaw was finally approved. It’s the same rate that was brought forward earlier this year and is retroactive to Jan. 1,” Peterman said.
“There was also an update on the water equalization tank located in Bashaw. It has developed some leaks and apparently, a number of bolts were installed incorrectly and repairs are now in the works.