The M.D. of Lesser Slave River held a regular council meeting on July 15. The meeting focused largely on a proposal for the M.D. to take over management of the Nine Mile Recreation Area trail. There were two new items added to the agenda, on AI and policing.
M.D. considers new management model for trails
The M.D. of Lesser Slave River is considering a proposal to take on a formal management role for the Nine Mile Recreation Area trail system.
Council heard a presentation from the Nine Mile Recreation Area Association, which proposed moving the volunteer-managed trails under a structure governed by Alberta’s Trails Act and Public Lands Act.
The change could provide access to provincial funding for trail maintenance and infrastructure improvements, while allowing for more formal planning and enforcement of trail-use rules, including closures, motorized-use restrictions, firearm regulations and pet rules.
Several councillors questioned whether the M.D. has the capacity to take on additional responsibilities.
Councillor Pearson questioned the need for the change, saying the proposal was “not fixing any problem” and that residents had not requested a new management structure. Councillor Vanhill raised concerns about impacts on existing users, including trappers, while Councillor Colborne questioned whether enforcement would be effective given existing demands on conservation officers.
The association said the additional workload for the M.D. would be limited and that funding-related reporting requirements would be minimal.
CAO Kevin Gannon raised concerns about staffing capacity, reduced volunteerism, public consultation requirements, and potential insurance and liability implications.
Council approved a motion from Councillor Vanhill directing administration to explore cooperation with the Town of Slave Lake on trail management under a provincial funding model. The issue will return during 2027 budget discussions.
Land purchases for Smith fire hall expansion
Council approved the purchase of land adjacent to the Smith Fire Hall to allow for potential future expansion of the facility.
Director Spencer told Council that the current property could limit future development options. The additional land would provide more space for future fire hall needs.
The property will be purchased for $24,830, excluding GST, with funding coming through the Local Government Fiscal Framework.
Fence relocation planned at Widewater Complex
Council approved funding to relocate a portion of fencing at the Widewater Complex after erosion began affecting areas near the existing fence line.
Council was presented with an estimate of up to $30,000 for the work, with funding to come from unallocated surplus funds in the 2026 operating budget.
Administration said additional quotes would be obtained as required.
Council also reviewed images showing changes to the nearby shoreline over a two-year period, with the shoreline extending approximately 15 metres due to increased water levels.
Council explores possible use of AI for municipal website
Council discussed a proposal from Councillor Melzer regarding the possible use of artificial intelligence to improve the M.D.’s website search function.
Melzer suggested Council members watch a one-hour introduction to municipal AI technology, saying the system could improve the user experience by making information easier for residents to find.
The discussion followed complaints from members of the public regarding difficulties using the website’s search function.
The CAO said he supported exploring the use of artificial intelligence but expressed concerns about companies soliciting Council members regarding technology products. He said website improvements should be considered before adding AI tools.
Councillor Pearson agreed that website search issues should be addressed and said AI could potentially improve the user experience.
Melzer said she had not been solicited by the company and had contacted it herself while seeking information about possible applications.
Deputy Reeve Seatter said artificial intelligence could improve access to information even on websites with existing limitations.
No decision was made regarding implementation.
Council votes to support RCMP amid debate over Alberta Sheriffs service
Council voted to send a letter supporting a National Police Federation call regarding the proposed Alberta Sheriffs Police Service.
The National Police Federation asked municipalities to support a call for the province to pause development of the service, citing concerns about public consultation and results of a survey.
The organization also cited survey results showing continued public satisfaction with the RCMP.
Deputy Reeve Seatter said there have been situations where sheriffs have improved local public safety. Councillor Vanhill raised concerns that supporting the request could affect provincial funding relationships.
A motion to send a letter of support passed 4-3, with Seatter, Vanhill and Councillor Snowden opposed.
William Hetherington
Lakeside Leader