Bentley Town Council Recap: Garbage Collection Contract Awarded, Land Sale Approved, and Arena Project Update
Bentley Town Council held its regular meeting on August 26th, addressing several key issues impacting the community. The meeting commenced at 6:30 PM with Mayor Greg Rathjen calling the meeting to order and an Indigenous Acknowledgement.
Garbage Collection Contract Awarded:
A major decision was the awarding of the residential garbage collection and disposal contract to Empringham Disposal. Councillor Valiquette moved the motion, which was carried, authorizing CAO Marc Fortais to finalize the agreement. The contract is effective September 1, 2025, and extends until December 31, 2029. This decision ensures continued garbage collection services for Bentley residents for the next four years.
Land Sale Approved:
Council approved the sale of a lot located at 5514 48A Street (Lot 38, Block 1, Plan 232033) in the Sunset Heights Subdivision to Steven Niles and Martena Strang for $63,900, including applicable GST. Councillor Hansen moved the motion, outlining the terms and conditions of the sale, including legal address, environmental considerations, and completion day set for January 7, 2026. This sale contributes to the ongoing development of the Sunset Heights Subdivision.
Rimbey Legion Veteran Banners Program Support:
Council also addressed the Rimbey Legion Veteran Banners Program. Councillor Grimsdale put forward a motion, which was carried, directing the CAO to support the banner project. The motion included a directive for administration to find a local liaison to facilitate banner requests through the legion within three months. If a liaison cannot be found, the Town of Bentley administration will assume the role, collaborating with the Legion. This initiative aims to honor veterans within the community.
Arena Slab Project Update:
CAO Marc Fortais provided an update on the Arena Slab Project. Fortais reported on unforeseen challenges including eight feet of frost when the old slab was removed, damaged curbs, and contaminated soil disposal. Despite these setbacks, administration has managed to keep the project on budget, with a potential $30,000 overage in a $1.35 million project. The rink is now anticipated to be open by early to mid-November, which is 1 to 1.5 months behind the original project completion date of September 30, 2025. While no motion was made, the council acknowledged the update and challenges.
Advocacy Conversation Deferred:
The scheduled discussion regarding advocacy with Alberta Municipalities was moved to the next council meeting, as per a motion by Councillor Hansen.
In-Camera Session:
Council held an in-camera session to discuss personnel matters, specifically CAO Evaluations, in accordance with the Access to Information Act. Following the in-camera session, Mayor Rathjen and Deputy Mayor Eastman were directed to contact the Town's lawyer, Chapman Riebeek, regarding the review and renewal of the CAO contract.
Council also reviewed correspondence, including a Public Meeting Notice for the Southeast Area Structure Plan, Lacombe County Council Highlights, and legislative changes to the Freedom of Information and the Protection of Privacy Act.
The meeting adjourned at 8:30 PM.