In this episode of Kneehill Scoop, we sit down with Kneehill County’s Interim CAO to talk about how local government shows up for residents—day in and day out.

We talk about the role of administration, how Council direction becomes everyday service, and why long-term thinking matters. From roads and water to policies, budgets, and planning, the focus stays on consistency, trust, and showing up—even when the work is complex or takes time.

You’ll hear why collaboration matters in a small but mighty rural organization, how clear communication helps explain the “why” behind decisions, and why resident feedback plays an important role in shaping priorities. It’s a reminder that governance isn’t about quick wins—it’s about care, patience, and keeping people at the centre of the work.

Thank you for listening!

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What does it take to keep clean water flowing across a rural County—and manage solid waste for County residents?

Utilities Manager John McKiernan joins us for a clear, behind-the-scenes look at Kneehill County’s 13 water systems, how Red Deer River water is treated, and why our rural network operates more like a city grid than a trickle line.

John walks us through source-to-tap treatment, reservoir cleanings that require certified divers, year-round maintenance, and simple fixes for common issues like frozen meters. We also dig into drought pressures, conservation, and how changing water conditions affect treatment.

On the waste side, we cover how transfer sites and the Class III landfill operate, why accepted items vary, and why proper sorting matters for safe, efficient handling of household materials—plus what Extended Producer Responsibility means for future recycling options.

We finish with tools to stay informed, holiday hours, water emergency contacts, and Hamlet garbage pickup updates.

Thank you for listening!

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Permit Us to Explain: Planning & Development in Kneehill County

Growth in a rural county can be both exciting and uncertain. This episode unpacks how Planning & Development shapes that growth—protecting neighbours, farms, and natural spaces while keeping Kneehill County sustainable.

Learn when you need a development permit, why a quick pre-application meeting can save time and money, and the difference between subdivision and rezoning. Barb Hazelton, Manager of Planning and Development, explains how buffers, setbacks, and local bylaws reduce conflict between land uses, and what roles Council and the Municipal Planning Commission play in approvals.

Listen now to learn how development really works in Kneehill County—and how smart planning keeps rural life livable.

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The next municipal election is October 20, 2025—and we’ve got everything you need to know. In episode 8 of the Kneehill Scoop, we sit down with Kneehill County’s Returning Officer, Carolyn Van der Kuil, to talk about who can vote, how to vote, and what to expect on Election Day.

Whether you’re a first-time voter or just need a refresher, this episode breaks down the basics so you can show up informed and confident. Your vote matters more than you think—especially in a local election.

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Ever wondered who maintains those roadside ditches or keeps our campgrounds pristine? Join Fallon Sherlock, Manager of Parks and Agricultural Services, and Jeff Guidolin, Kneehill County’s Park Supervisor, as they discuss how their small but mighty team manages an astonishing 4,500 kilometres of roadway vegetation control, four unique campgrounds, and several day-use areas, including the crown jewel of the county—Horseshoe Canyon, which welcomes nearly 92,000 visitors annually.

Learn how the Agricultural Service Board supports local farmers through weed and pest control, soil conservation, and even bug-based biocontrol methods. Hear about scenic spots like Orkney Viewpoint and Keiver’s Lake, and the surprising conservation challenges they face—from fossil finds to park etiquette.

Plus, get a sneak peek at the upcoming Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment and how you can shape the future of Kneehill’s outdoor spaces through surveys and workshops launching this September.

Whether you’re a resident, a visitor, or just curious, this episode takes you behind the scenes of what it takes to keep our parks beautiful and our ag services running strong.

Thank you for listening!

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What exactly does "economic development" mean for a rural Alberta community, and how does it impact local businesses, farmers, and residents? The Kneehill Scoop tackles this question head-on in an eye-opening conversation with Wendy Gerbrandt and Jenna Kester from Kneehill County's Economic Development Department.

Behind every thriving rural community lies a strategic plan for sustainable growth. As community connectors, Wendy and Jenna explain how they're implementing Kneehill County's three-year economic development strategy, which focuses on leadership capacity, business support, investment readiness, and brand enhancement.

Whether you're a business owner looking for support, a resident interested in County initiatives, or simply curious about rural economic development, this episode offers valuable information about the people and programs working to ensure Kneehill County remains a vibrant place to work, play and stay.

Contact the Economic Development team at 403-443-5541 to learn how they can help connect you with the resources you need.

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Taxes. Assessment. Budget. They’re not the flashiest topics—but they affect everything from the roads you drive on to the services you count on.

In this episode, we sit down with Kneehill County’s Property Tax Administrator Rajeana Nyman, and Manager of Financial Planning Marika von Mirbach, to discuss where your tax dollars go, how property assessments work, and the real pressures driving tax increases—from rising costs to mandatory requisitions like education and policing.

We’ll unpack how assessment affects your bill, what Council can (and can’t) control, and the tough balancing act of delivering services while keeping increases as low as possible.

It’s not just dollars—it’s the sense behind the decisions.

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What would you grab if you had just minutes to leave your home?

To kick off Emergency Preparedness Week (May 4–10), emergency management experts Deb Neitz and Dan Marsellus join us to break down the real risks rural communities face—from tornadoes and train derailments to wildfires and hazardous spills—and how to prepare before disaster strikes.

This episode dives into the unique challenges of rural response and recovery, offering practical tips for building a 72-hour kit, understanding fire bans, and staying calm under pressure. Because in an emergency, panic leaves things behind—preparation doesn’t.

Whether you’re checking on neighbours or creating firebreaks, rural readiness starts with all of us.
Learn how to protect what matters most—before it hits the fan.

🎧 Listen now & visit our podcast webpage for links, resources, and to submit your questions.

All news & announcements are current as of May 1, 2025.

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