Bentley Town Council Approves Southeast Area Structure Plan and Temporary Signage Bylaw
The Bentley Town Council held its regular meeting on October 14, 2025, addressing several important matters impacting the town's future. Key decisions included approving the first reading of the Town of Bentley Southeast Area Structure Plan and passing a bylaw regulating temporary signage on 50th Avenue within the commercial district.
The council moved forward with Bylaw 255/2025, the Town of Bentley Southeast Area Structure Plan, granting it the first reading. A public hearing is scheduled for November 25, 2025, to allow residents to provide input before further consideration. "This public hearing is crucial for ensuring that the Southeast Area Structure Plan reflects the needs and desires of our community," stated Councillor Grimsdale, who moved the motion. The public hearing will be advertised in the Rimbey Review on November 11th and 18th, and on the town website.
Significant progress was made on regulating temporary signage. Bylaw 256/2025, which regulates temporary signage on the boulevard along 50th Avenue in the commercial district, received all three readings and was officially passed. This bylaw aims to create a more consistent and visually appealing commercial area. "This bylaw will help businesses promote themselves while maintaining the aesthetic appeal of our main street," explained Councillor Valiquette, who initially moved to have the bylaw read for the first time.
The council also addressed regional collaboration, supporting a grant application for a feasibility study on a regional water and wastewater system. This partnership involves Lacombe County and municipalities adjacent to Gull Lake. According to Councillor Grimsdale, "This study is a crucial step towards ensuring the long-term sustainability of our water and wastewater infrastructure and fostering collaboration with our neighboring communities."
In other business, the council revised Library Board appointments and approved a contract with RSM Canada LLP for audit services for the 2025 fiscal year. Furthermore, the council will explore a joint application with Eckville for the 2026 Municipal Internship Program.
The council also held an in-camera session to discuss a land matter and CAO Marc Fortais's employment agreement. Following the closed session, the council approved the CAO employment agreement, authorizing Mayor Rathjen and Deputy Mayor Eastman to execute the contract on behalf of the Town of Bentley.
The meeting adjourned at 8:30 pm, marking the conclusion of a productive session addressing key issues impacting the Town of Bentley.