Three Months In: Reflections from County Council

It has been just over three months since the recent municipal election, and I can honestly say the experience of serving as an elected Councillor for the County of Two Hills has been both humbling and energizing. The learning curve has been steep; but in the best possible way. Every week brings new information, new challenges, and new opportunities to better understand how our County operates and how decisions at the council table impact the lives of residents across our region.

One of the most rewarding aspects of this role has been the opportunity to serve the community in ways I had not previously experienced. I’ve had the privilege of being involved in a number of committees, each with its own mandate and importance to the wellbeing of our County. These include FCSS, Adult Learning, the Sports Activity Council, Eagle Hill Foundation, the Northern Lights Library System, Rural Policing, the Airport Commission, and the Rural Physician and Healthcare Action Plan. In addition, I’ve gained valuable insight into the work of our County departments, including Public Works, the County Gas Utility, County Water Utility, Agricultural Services, and County Fire Services. Each department and committee plays a vital role in keeping our communities safe, connected, and functioning.

Serving on Council has also opened doors to valuable networking and learning opportunities with municipal and provincial leaders from across Alberta. Conferences and workshops such as the Gas Co-op Conference, the Agricultural Services Conference, and events hosted by the Rural Municipalities of Alberta (RMA) have provided perspective, shared best practices, and reinforced that many rural municipalities are facing similar challenges; and that collaboration matters more than ever. The networking opportunities at these events are valuable and the conversations with peer municipalities, and government representatives have been enlightening and encouraging.

I want to take a moment to recognize the incredible women and men who serve the residents of the County of Two Hills every day. Their dedication does not go unnoticed. This was especially evident during the significant snowfall we experienced from late December through early January. Despite difficult conditions, staff worked tirelessly to keep roads open, services running, and residents safe. Their commitment and professionalism are a credit to our County.

At the same time, it would be disingenuous to suggest that the road ahead is without difficulty. Like many rural municipalities, we continue to face the financial impact of bankrupt oil and gas companies that have defaulted on millions of dollars in unpaid taxes. We also face the ongoing and growing challenge of maintaining roads, bridges, and infrastructure that require significant investment to repair or replace. Over the past several years, our community has already experienced reductions in service levels in an effort to close gaps in the municipal budget.

Since being elected, I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for just how challenging it will be to maintain current service levels while keeping taxation flat. Looking ahead, it is clear that Council, on behalf of and in consultation with ratepayers, will need to engage in some difficult but necessary conversations. These discussions will center around long-term infrastructure strategies, service level agreements, and how we sustainably pay for the services residents rely on. These are not easy decisions, but they are important ones.

There are also encouraging opportunities ahead. Cooperation and collaboration with our municipal neighbours, the Town of Two Hills and the Village of Myrnam, offer real potential to share ideas, align priorities, and strengthen services for residents across our region. Working together will be key to navigating the challenges ahead.

Despite the obstacles, I am confident the County of Two Hills has a bright future. Our greatest strength is our people; strong, resilient individuals who are not afraid to roll up their sleeves and do the hard work required to move forward. I want to recognize and thank our farmers and ranchers, our manufacturing sector, healthcare workers, tradespeople, and small business owners. I also want to acknowledge our teachers, transport drivers, volunteer organizations, churches, and countless community members who contribute daily to the fabric of our County and believe in a brighter tomorrow.

I never promised that I would fix everything, and I never promised that I would have all the answers. But I did promise that I would listen, to the ratepayers of Division Three and to residents across the County of Two Hills. Thank you to those who have reached out with advice, questions, and thoughtful feedback. As we continue to move forward together, your voice will be increasingly important. I want to hear from you so I can represent you and your ideas for the future of our County.

Thank you for your support last October and thank you for your continued support today. None of us can do this work alone, but together, no one can stop us.

If you’d like to connect with me, please feel free to email me at tboettcher@thcounty.ab.ca or call/text 780-603-0741.

Until next time, take care of yourself; and take care of your neighbours.

Terry Boettcher

Councillor – Division Three

County of Two Hills