Stettler county council decided it wanted more information about a request to help pay for Buffalo Lake signage before making a decision.
The topic was discussed at the Nov. 10 regular meeting of council, held one day early because of Remembrance Day.
The Buffalo Sands Residents Association (BSRA) sent a letter to the county, stating it needs funding to help pay for new signage at the community entrance, hiking paths and beach entrances.
“The BSCA is undertaking a beautification of our community by installing a new community sign at the entrance to our community, as well as wanting to install pathway signage on the walking pathways and beach entrances,” stated the letter of request dated Oct. 10.
“We have developed a new community logo which will be present on all signs installed.
“Although we know funding for community projects is difficult in these times, we are seeking financial assistance from the county for the pathway signage costs.
“We want to stay consistent with the county signage policies.
“In addition, we would like support from the county for the installation of the pathway signs, as numerous line locates (underground services) will need to be completed to ensure no lines are struck during the sign installations.”
The letter stated that 12 pathway signs would be required.
A report to council prepared by Rich Fitzgerald, GIS coordinator, stated “Buffalo Sands Residents Association (BSRA) have requested the county to design, install and fund signs to be installed along the pathways and beach entrances, as well as a larger community sign at the entrance of the subdivision.”
“The Buffalo Sands community group would like to have 12 signs installed at the beginning of the pathways and entrances to the beach in the subdivision, with a “you are here” icon, and identifying the locations of the pathways in the subdivision.
“As well, they would like to have a larger community sign showing the addresses and street names in the subdivision, installed at the entrance to Buffalo Sands.”
He noted, if councillors wished to approve the request, they had two options.
The first was to purchase the signs and posts, and commit county staff to design and install the signs, funding the project from whichever budget councillors chose.
According to the memo, this option would cost the county $2,685.
The second option included the county entering into an agreement with the association to provide the design, installation and sourcing of the signs and posts using county staff, with the purchase of signs and posts to be billed to the association.
This option would cost the county $2,805, according to the memo.
Coun. Dave Grover asked if this project, if approved, could be funded by revenue from Buffalo Sands land sales.
Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Yvette Cassidy stated that the idea may work but it would have to go to the policy committee first to ensure suitability, then return to council.
Coun. Les Stulberg asked if this was precedent setting.
Cassidy stated it seems to be a perk that she’s not sure the county can afford anymore.
“We have a financial crunch,” said Cassidy.
Coun. Cheri Neitz suggested the county CAO meet with the association and develop an agreement, then return to council at a future meeting.
Coun. Grover stated he felt the residents of the community should pay for the signs.
Coun. Stulberg agreed.
Councillors passed a motion that the county CAO meet with the association and develop an agreement then return to council at a future meeting.
Stu Salkeld, Local Journalism Initiative reporter
ECA Review
