2021 Message from the Reeve

Once again, on behalf of Cardston County, it is my opportunity to provide a brief synopsis of some of the happenings that were experienced in 2020, and provide some insight into what we can expect to realize in 2021.

2020 was a challenging year for so many in a variety of ways. Despite being an uncertain year, many of our area residents experienced tremendous successes in their agricultural operations, which included exceptional yields. In many circumstances, there was literally not enough room to receive it at the bin. We were very grateful for the results  of 2020‘s harvest, and hope for the same result in 2021. Putting COVID aside, we continue to succeed and navigate with optimism going into the new year. 

Throughout the course of 2020, Cardston County has managed to successfully sign working agreements  (ICFs) with the many neighbouring municipalities that we share borders with. These agreements mutually benefit our communities as a whole. The County is a proud partner in all of the services that we share and provide. 

Council is pleased to announce that more grant funding has been secured to go towards the expansion of broadband internet within our boundaries. We are striving to service the entire County with increased internet connectivity. The exact roll out of this project is still being determined and negotiated. Expanded internet service will foster economic growth, and Council is excited to invest in this service. 

As 2020 draws to an end, Council and Administration have begun the process of reviewing the budget for the coming year. We are highly engaged to produce a prudent, workable budget that will suit County purposes and goals. We strive to keep a balanced approach for a stable and reasonable taxation system. 

As we look forward to 2021, we are anticipating the adoption of an updated Land Use Bylaw which will help define and clarify the process of development in the County. This document will be updated to address the several recent changes in Provincial legislation. We look forward to more public engagement as we finalize this process with future public hearings. Council would like to thank all those who have engaged with us, as we have exposed and debated many different discussion items in the Council Chambers this last year.  Providing solutions to our collective challenges does not come easy, and we value all perspectives of everyone involved. 

Throughout 2020, Cardston County processed a record number of development applications. People are drawn to our area for a wide variety of reasons. Council would like to ask for your assistance in promoting this area, and the many opportunities that abound here, by inviting people to make Cardston County their home. We are fortunate to live in this beautiful landscape and we need to share it. 

Council would like to express our appreciation to the individual efforts of all County employees. Serving our citizens and infrastructure is no small task, and we thank everyone for what they contribute. 

Lastly, if you have questions, comments, or concerns, please contact your local Councillor. Contact and other information is provided on the County website at cardstoncounty.com. 

We hope that everyone had a merry Christmas and a safe and prosperous New Year.

Randy Bullock, B.Mgt. (Finance)

Reeve, Cardston County