FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Council Highlights – January 27, 2026
Valleyview, Alberta
Council Supports Extension and Expansion of Trades Programming in Northwest Alberta
Council has directed Administration to provide a letter of support to the Minister of Advanced Education for the expansion and extension of trades programming in Northwest Alberta. The decision reflects Council’s recognition of ongoing skilled labour shortages in the region and the importance of improving access to trades education for residents of Greenview and surrounding rural municipalities. Expanding local training opportunities supports workforce development, helps remove barriers to education, and contributes to long-term economic stability.
Council’s support is grounded in the principles of regional collaboration, youth retention, and aligning post-secondary training with local industry needs. Providing opportunities closer to home increases the likelihood that students will remain in the region to live and work, strengthening both communities and the local labour market. Council continues to value accessible post-secondary education across the region.
Greenview Supports Grande Cache Reclassification Committee
Council has affirmed its support for the work of the Grande Cache Reclassification Committee and directed Administration to provide discretionary support, which may include advocacy assistance, the provision of relevant municipal information, and help facilitating introductions, as requested. The decision recognizes the Committee’s efforts to advocate for Grande Cache’s reclassification under the federal Northern Residents Deduction and acknowledges the potential benefits such a change could bring to residents in the Hamlet.
At the same time, Council has chosen not to appoint a member of Council to the Committee. This approach allows Greenview to offer appropriate support while maintaining flexibility and fairness among communities facing similar circumstances.
STARS Foundation Funding Agreement Approved
A four-year Regional Sustaining Grant agreement with STARS has been approved by Council, providing $250,000 annually, from 2026 to 2029, to support the delivery of critical air ambulance services in the region. As part of this decision, Council also approved a $40,000 increase to the 2026 operating budget to reflect the updated annual funding commitment to STARS. This agreement replaces year-to-year funding requests with a formal arrangement that provides stability and clarity for both Greenview and STARS.
STARS plays a vital role in delivering specialized critical care during life-threatening emergencies, particularly in rural and remote areas such as Greenview. Council’s decision reflects its long-standing support for the organization and recognizes the importance of predictable, multi-year funding to help STARS plan its operations and continue providing timely emergency medical services to residents and visitors across the region.
Fox Creek Protective Services Building Operating Costs Supported
Council approved an amendment to the 2026 operating budget to contribute $41,723.50 toward operational building costs for the Fox Creek Fire Hall. This funding reflects Greenview’s 50 percent ownership of the Protective Services Building, which was constructed in 2017 as a joint project with the Town of Fox Creek and continues to support fire protection services for Greenview residents in the Fox Creek area.
The contribution covers a share of building-related expenses, including insurance, utilities, maintenance, and safety systems. Council’s decision supports the continued delivery of effective and cost-efficient fire services through the existing Fire Services agreement with the Town of Fox Creek. Administration will work with the Town to ensure future requests related to building operations are brought forward through the regular annual budget process.
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Upcoming Events and Meetings
- February 10, 2026 –Regular Council Meeting, Valleyview Council Chambers
- February 16, 2026 – Family DayStatutory Holiday, All Administrative offices closed
- February 17, 2026 – Committee of the Whole, Grovedale Public Service Building
- February 27, 2026 – Regular Council Meeting, Valleyview Council Chambers
Media inquiries may be directed to:
Stacey Sevilla | Manager, Communications & Marketing | Direct: 780-524-7625
stacey.sevilla@mdgreenview.ab.ca
Download a full copy of the January 27, 2026, RCM Highlights here.