The Town of Stettler council has approved several policy updates as part of a comprehensive review ahead of the upcoming municipal election.
More than a dozen policy amendments were brought forward at the June 17 council meeting, following initial discussions during a committee of the whole meeting the previous week.
Council Pay Policy Unchanged
Council opted to maintain the existing remuneration policy, which was last revised in 2023. Under the policy, council and mayoral salaries are adjusted annually in line with wage increases for the town’s non-union staff.
As of Jan. 1, 2025, the mayor receives an annual salary of $43,316.78, while councillors are paid $21,658.26.
Councillors also receive additional compensation for attending meetings: $130 for meetings lasting up to four hours and $260 for full-day sessions.
Travel related to official town business is reimbursed at a rate of 50 cents per kilometre, with a daily meal allowance of up to $80 plus tax, with receipts.
Administration noted that Stettler’s compensation levels remain mid-range when compared to other municipalities of similar size.
Council Service Recognition Policy Revised
A revised service recognition policy will now offer gifts based on terms served rather than total years. Councillors will be eligible for a gift of up to $250 per term, while mayors can receive up to $400 per term. Previously, gifts were based on years of service for outgoing members not seeking re-election.
New Electronic Device Policy for Council
Council approved a new policy regarding the use of electronic devices. Members may choose between a town-issued device or use their own, supported by a $1,000 technology allowance at the beginning of each term.
Council Email Policy Tightened
Email expectations were also updated, with councillors now required to check and respond to emails at least once every 72 hours to ensure timely communication.
Fee Updates: Record Checks, Credit Cards, Paper Billing
Several administrative policies were updated to allow for better cost recovery. The fee for a criminal record check will increase from $20 to $30. A new $10 fee will apply to volunteer checks, which had previously been free since 2008.
Council also approved a policy enabling credit card transaction fees to be passed on to users. This would allow residents to pay property taxes via credit card.
A new $1.75 fee will be charged for paper utility bills and invoices, though seniors aged 60 and older will be exempt.
Additional Policy Updates
Other updates approved during the June 17 meeting include amendments to the councillor code of ethics, committee appointments, attendance at conventions and workshops, and guidelines for distributing promotional items.
Council also approved fee increases for land use amendments, building permits and subdivision applications.
Author: Landin Chambers
Landin Chambers is a news reporter for Hometown Media Stettler. He has a background in broadcast news, with previous roles in Prince George, Red Deer and Calgary. You may also see him as a cameraman for the Stettler Wildcats and Stettler Imperials. Have a story idea? Email: lchambers@htproductionsmedia.ca
