Highlights from Monday’s meeting of Grande Prairie City Council

Pinnacle Ridge Rezoning Rejected

Council has rejected a proposal that would have seen the rezoning of 2.5 hectares of land near the entrance to Pinnacle Ridge area. The change would have allowed for a commercial development.

A large group of people came to council to speak both for and against the proposal. Some who spoke for told council that development was needed as there are already problems with weeds and vagrants. Those in opposition said they were worried about new access points to the development off Pinnacle Drive.

They say one of these would go between a park and a waterfall and people would not use both at once like they do now because it would be too dangerous to cross the road. They also said the area already has heavy traffic congestion and this development would mean more vehicle and pedestrian traffic.

They also talked about an existing crossing that is dangerous because drivers do not stop for those crossing the street. One of the speakers said the population of that area went up by 576 people from 2021 to 2024. Many also talked about a 166 unit apartment going up nearby that would add to the traffic problem

Water Fluoride

Two delegations talked to council about fluoride in water. One presenter asked council to approve having fluoride being added to the water put on the ballot for the municipal election set for October 20. Council voted to accept both presentations for information.

Transit Talk

Council has agreed to have staff look at the idea of having a Transit Day and launching a transit awareness campaign. This came after a delegation brought up the idea of having such a day. The suggestions also included having free transit rides that day and having staff and councillors ut at different bus stops to answer questions and hear feedback from the public.

Second Resolution for Midwives

Council agreed to second a resolution from the Village of Hussar going to the Alberta Municipalities Convention. The resolution calls on the province to develop a strategy on midwives that would include focusing on retention, access to services, and funding for what the resolution calls “a more well-rounded course of care.” The convention will take place in November in Calgary.

Council’s next meeting is set for August 25, after the summer break.

by Curtis Galbraith