Council Approves 5-Year RCMP Budget Plan in Split Vote
Ponoka Town Council approved a five-year financial plan for the municipal RCMP detachment in a 4-2 vote Tuesday night, setting a funding framework that will guide police budgets until 2031.
Why It Matters
The decision establishes an "Agreement in Principle" for RCMP funding from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2031. While specific dollar amounts will still be debated and approved during the annual municipal budget process, this plan outlines the long-term financial strategy for local policing. Mayor Kevin Ferguson was authorized to sign the agreement.
Citizen Input
No residents spoke during the public forum section of the meeting.
The Debate
The approval was not unanimous. Councillors Carla Lloyd and Cal David voted against both motions related to the RCMP financial plan. The meeting minutes did not record their reasons for opposition.
Voting in favour were Mayor Kevin Ferguson and Councillors Clayton Nelson, Sandra Lyon, and Teri Underhill. The plan was presented to council by Sgt. Epp earlier in the meeting.
Other Business
Park Lighting Review
Council voted unanimously to send a draft Parks and Trail Lighting Assessment to the Community Enhancement Committee for review. The assessment details potential lighting upgrades for public spaces.
Snow Removal & Speed Humps
During the Chief Administrative Officer's report, council requested information on the town's snow removal plan for the upcoming winter. A question was also raised about whether the Transportation Master Plan includes provisions for adding speed humps in problem areas.
Christmas Tree Lighting
Councillor Sandra Lyon submitted a notice of motion asking administration to consider including the tree in front of the Ponoka Drop In Centre in the town's official Christmas Lighting Program.
What's Next
The RCMP financial plan will now be used as a guiding document for council during annual budget deliberations. The Community Enhancement Committee will review the park lighting assessment and provide its recommendations back to council at a future date.