Bentley Town Council Approves 2024 Financials, Addresses Park Weed Control at April 22 Meeting
The Bentley Town Council convened on April 22nd for their regular meeting, addressing a range of municipal matters. Key decisions included the acceptance of the 2024 audited financial statements and discussions surrounding park maintenance and a potential dog park.
The council unanimously approved the 2024 Consolidated Financial Statements and Independent Auditors Report, as prepared by RSM Ltd. While the audit included a qualified opinion related to asset retirement obligations (AROs), specifically concerning potential asbestos in town buildings and lagoon remediation costs, Mr. Leon Pfeiffer of RSM assured the council that there were no major issues with the Town Audit. Deputy Mayor Grimsdale moved that "Mayor and Council accept and approve the 2024 Consolidated Financial Statements and Independent Auditors Report."
Significant discussion revolved around the Parks and Recreation report, particularly regarding herbicide spraying in parks. Council voted to continue using Trillion or Par3 for annual spraying on sports fields and public works areas, while implementing more frequent mowing in playground parks to reduce the need for spraying. They also agreed to improve signage informing residents about spraying schedules and to continue investigating less toxic herbicide options annually. Councillor Hansen requested a recorded vote, where he was the only one opposed. Mayor Rathjen, Councillor Valiquette, Councillor Eastman, and Deputy Mayor Grimsdale all voted in favor.
The possibility of establishing a dog park on Lot 8, Block 1, Plan 8020604 near 4801 53 Street Close was also on the agenda. While the town acquired the lot in March, council decided to direct administration to clean up the lot, bring in topsoil, and seed it, but to hold off on any further work to create a dog park at this time. Councillor Valiquette moved that "administration be directed to begin cleaning up the lot, bring in topsoil and seed it, but no further work be undertaken at this time to create a dog park."
Other business included accepting the Public Works report and correspondence from Lacombe County Council and Municipal Affairs as information. The meeting adjourned at 8:39 pm.