MD of Taber council meeting recap from March 10

Posted on March 19, 2026 by Vauxhall Advance

By Nerissa McNaughton
Southern Alberta Newspapers
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Municipal District of Taber (MD) Council convened on March 10, addressing a variety of topics that impact our community.

The meeting started with the adoption of the February 24 minutes in which Reeve Tamara Miyanaga encouraged residents to participate in two upcoming events:

• Coldest Night of the Year Walk: A family-friendly winter walk raising funds for local charities supporting those experiencing hurt, hunger, and homelessness.

• PlayOn! Street Hockey Tournament: A major event dedicated to supporting the rebuild of the Taber Arena, which suffered significant damage from a recent explosion.

Reeve Miyanaga also commended the success of the Green Shirt Day hockey event hosted by the Vauxhall Arena, recognizing the community’s strong support and engagement.

The previous minutes also noted Council celebrating two individuals for their service: Doug Jensen was honored for 23 years of dedicated work in the Agricultural Services Department, while Diane Wickenheiser was recognized for an incredible 45 years of service on the MD’s Library Board and her extensive volunteerism in the Hays community.

The February 24 minutes further noted that many important decisions were carried, including but not limited to:

• Broadband Expansion:

Council reviewed a proposal from Xplore Inc. for the installation of buried broadband fibre optics. Administration was directed to gather more information on obligations and costs compared to other municipalities.

• Airport Lease Agreements:

Council is exploring the feasibility of extending Taber Airport lease terms to a minimum of 30 years. Administration will also investigate the potential sale of leases at Vauxhall Airport.

• Community Donations:

– Taber Spring Classic Pro Rodeo: $5,000 for event expenses.

– Enchant & District Historical Society: $5,000 for the Enchant Cemetery Fencing project, along with a letter of support and grant management assistance.

– Canadian Classic Rodeo Association: $3,000 for Southwest Senior Rodeo event expenses.

– Taber Cowboy Heritage Society: $5,000 for an Artist Mentorship Workshop and Event.

The March 10 council meeting transitioned into new business with a detailed update on the Chin West Dam Rehabilitation project. The initiative aims to address critical infrastructure needs, including replacing the existing Low Level Outlet Structure, stabilizing the dam, flattening backslopes, and adding toe berms and a filtration system. The project also involves raising the dam by 4.6 metres and excavating inside the reservoir post-construction. With tender advisement expected by the end of March, this project represents a significant step forward in ensuring the safety and functionality of the dam for years to come.

The meeting also addressed a letter submitted by Sharon Hagen, a concerned ratepayer, regarding the ongoing discussions about leaseholder land management. Hagen’s letter expressed frustration with what she perceives as preferential treatment for a specific group of cattle leaseholders, citing historical losses to the municipality due to heavily favourable lease agreements. She criticized council for decisions that, in her view, prioritize the interests of a small, vocal group over the broader needs of the municipality. Hagen urged council to uphold their oath to act in the best interests of all ratepayers, emphasizing the importance of fairness and fiscal responsibility in municipal decision-making. Her letter served as a stark reminder of the challenges council faces in balancing competing interests within the community.

Another significant topic of discussion was the proposed purchase of 131 acre-feet of water licences to support the growing Hamlet of Grassy Lake. Administration recommended the purchase at a total cost of $1,768,500, with funding sourced from the Water Capital Reserve and the Major Projects Reserve. The water licences, priced at $13,500.00 per acre-foot, are essential to meet the increasing demands on Grassy Lake’s potable water system. The purchase is contingent upon securing a conveyance agreement with the St. Mary River Irrigation District (SMRID) to deliver the water to MD infrastructure. As Grassy Lake continues to expand, this investment is seen as a critical measure to ensure the community’s future capacity, reliability, and support for both residential and commercial development.

The March 10 meeting underscored the council’s ongoing efforts to address pressing infrastructure needs, support community growth, and navigate complex issues of fairness and fiscal responsibility. As the MD of Taber continues to evolve, these discussions and decisions will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the municipality.