Ponoka Eyes $13.2M Wastewater Upgrade, Greenlights New Development Incentives
Council Seeks Provincial Grant for $13.2M Project
PONOKA - Ponoka Town Council has unanimously authorized administration to apply for a provincial grant to fund a $13.2 million upgrade to the town’s Wastewater Treatment Facility.
The application, directed to the Alberta Municipal Water and Wastewater Program (AMWWP), is for the construction of Headworks Improvements slated for 2026. This project addresses essential infrastructure needs for the town.
Why It Matters
If the grant application is successful, it could cover a significant portion of the project's cost, reducing the direct burden on local taxpayers. The upgrades are necessary to maintain and improve the town's wastewater processing capabilities to meet current and future demand. The application is the first step; provincial approval is not guaranteed.
New Incentives for Builders, Residents, and Businesses
Council also took initial steps to encourage local growth by giving first reading to a package of new incentive bylaws:
* Residential New Build Incentive (Bylaw 13-2025)
* Major Home Renovation Incentive (Bylaw 14-2025)
* Commercial New Build Incentive (Bylaw 15-2025)
These bylaws aim to make it more attractive for residents and developers to build new homes, undertake significant renovations, and construct new commercial properties within the town. Council also approved new policies for a New Resident Incentive and a New Business Grant, replacing a previous resident incentive policy.
Citizen Input and Debate
No residents spoke during the public forum section of the meeting.
All motions presented during the meeting passed unanimously, according to the official minutes. There was no recorded debate or opposition to any of the items. During a discussion on exploring country residential districts, Councillor Cal David declared a pecuniary interest and left the council chambers for the duration of the motion.
Other Business
Council also dealt with several other matters:
* Land Sale: Approved the sale of two town-owned lots at 5501 and 5503 50 Street for $20,000 each. The sale is subject to a final agreement with the purchasers, Jelda Jayne Miranda and Sardhar Shaik.
* Community Donation: Approved a $1,000 donation to the 2025 Ponoka Community Christmas event from the council's sponsorship budget.
* Employee Recognition: Approved $100 gift certificates for all full-time permanent town employees and $50 for casual employees in recognition of their contributions in 2025.
* Crosswalks: Directed administration to investigate improved crosswalk markings, particularly near playgrounds, and to collaborate with the Royal Canadian Legion on a potential veterans crosswalk on 51 Street.
What's Next
The wastewater facility grant application will now be submitted to the provincial government for consideration.
The new incentive bylaws, along with bylaws concerning 2026 utility rates and electrical tariffs, have only passed first reading. They require two more readings at future council meetings before they become law. This process allows for further review and public awareness before the changes are finalized.