Northern Sunrise County is hosting the annual resident’s meeting to discuss the direction the County is going in 2026.
The meeting will be held on April 7 starting at 6:30 p.m. at the Marie Reine Hall. Council and administration is hoping all county residents choose to attend to learn about the governing of the municipality.
“NSC has held this annual meeting for several years as a way for council to connect directly with residents,” explains chief administrative officer Cindy Millar.
“The meeting provides an opportunity to discuss past and upcoming projects, answer questions, and gather resident input on the annual operating and capital budgets before they are finalized in April.”
Millar explains the topics of discussion will include the 2025 accomplishments in the county, as well as a discussion about the 2026 strategic priorities and budget overview.
She says some of the key accomplishments from 2025 include refresh of the Land-Use Bylaw to make it more user-friendly and reduce red tape, completion of the municipal census, installation of an accessible merry-go-round at Cecil Thompson Park, upgrades to two paved county roads to ban-free status, and purchase of a new van for the Community Services department.
“Residents will gain insight into the County’s priorities for 2026, including capital projects and advocacy efforts,” Millar adds.
“The meeting also offers an opportunity to share ideas, highlight concerns, and provide input on what they believe should be addressed or improved within the County.”
Millar says council’s 2026 priorities include developing a position statement on nuclear energy in response to proposed regional projects, conducting pre-engineering work for water system upgrades at the Sunrise Gateway Business Park, collaborating with the Town of Peace River and potentially rural neighbouring municipalities on an Intermunicipal Collaboration Framework Cost-Sharing Agreement, updating municipal policies, including the Public Engagement Policy, and researching older adult living options and opportunities.
“The 2026 operating and capital budgets remain consistent with last year,” Millar notes.
“The operating budget reflects inflationary adjustments, while the capital budget focuses on infrastructure maintenance, equipment replacement in Public Works, the annual regravel program scheduled for Harmon Valley and Reno, and upgrades to a paved county road to ban-free status.”
Millar adds council will begin discussing mill rate at its first April meeting, with final approval scheduled for April 28. She says no mill rate increase is anticipated, though the final decision will be made when the budget is passed.
“This meeting is designed to keep residents informed and engaged,” Millar says.
“It offers a chance to speak with council and staff in an informal setting, ask questions, and learn more about County initiatives and priorities. All councillors are expected to attend except deputy reeve Javos.”
Millar explains council will present the 2025 accomplishments and 2026 priorities.
She adds director of finance Laura Gach will discuss the 2025 financial results and the upcoming budget. She adds that department leader will also be in attendance to answer questions and speak with residents after the presentation.
“Residents are strongly encouraged to attend because this meeting offers an opportunity to hear directly from council, learn more about County operations and finances, and share ideas or concerns,” Millar concludes.
“While councillors are always available to their residents, this annual gathering provides a broader look at the County’s direction, budget, and priorities for the year ahead.”
Emily Plihal
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter