Chris Clegg
South Peace News
(High Prairie) – Despite having one of the highest crime rates in Alberta, High Prairie town council is prepared to continue sending its peace officers to the Smoky River region.
Council agreed by a 5-2 vote at its Oct. 28 meeting to offer a one-year agreement but under renegotiated fees. Currently, council charges $60 an hour for the peace officer and $67 for the vehicles.
The Smoky River region communities included in the agreement are the Village of Girouxville, Town of Falher, Village of Donnelly and Town of McLennan. They are provided with two eight-hours shifts per month, generating $2,032 for council. The cost is divided among the four communities.
In opening debate, Councillor Brian Martinson motioned to sign a new three-year agreement, adding an increase might be in order.
Councillor Bryce Shunter expressed immediate hesitancy over signing a three-year agreement. He favored only one year.
Martinson suggested Smoky River hire its own peace officer(s) but work under the supervision of High Prairie.
Mayor Dan Vandermeulen noted crime is a concern in High Prairie and one he heard many times during the recent election campaign. He suggested a six-month contract.
“They are in a difficult situation, Vandermeulen noted referring to the Smoky River region. The area does need some enforcement, but does not want to incur the expense of a full-time peace officer.
“I do think three years is excessive,” Vandermeulen added.
Martinson’s motion was defeated 6-1 with only Martinson voting in favour.
The second motion passed 5-2 with Martinson and Shunter opposed.
“One year is still too long,” noted Shunter before the vote.
Vandermeulen said it was clear council did not want to sever the agreement but wanted to lessen the commitment.
If the new fees and agreement are accepted by the Smoky River communities, the agreement will occur the 2026 calendar year.