From fire safety upgrades at the Stettler Agri-Plex to a new multi-use sport court in Donalda, eight community projects across the County of Stettler have been approved for recreation funding.
At their regular meeting on Dec. 10, County council approved $49,999.32 in special project funding for 2026.
The approved grants target aging infrastructure in rural communities such as Big Valley, Botha, Red Willow, Rochon Sands, & Byemoor.
“Recreation facilities play a vital role in the health, connection, and quality of life in our rural communities,” said Larry Clarke, Reeve for the County of Stettler No. 6.
“These recommended projects reflect Council’s ongoing commitment to supporting safe, accessible, and well-maintained community spaces that serve residents across the County of Stettler.”
The largest single amount, totaling $10,696.80, went to the Stettler & District Agricultural Society.
The funds will address repairs to the Agri-Plex sprinkler system after a fire inspection identified leaks & faulty heads.
A portion of the funds will also improve signage at the site to help residents better track farmers markets & livestock events.
Botha will see significant investment, with the Seniors Centre receiving $10,000 to fix crumbling cement steps & to lift a handicap ramp that had become a trip hazard.
Additionally, the Botha Community Centre was awarded $6,522.52 to repair exterior leaks & install energy-efficient LED lighting.
Other approved projects include:
- Big Valley Agricultural Society ($8,000): Purchase of a new score clock to replace a broken unit.
- Rochon Sands Hall ($6,500): Installation of air conditioning to improve comfort during the summer months.
- Red Willow Agricultural Society ($5,000): Interior painting to repair peeling surfaces caused by previous water damage.
- Clearview Public Schools – Donalda ($2,880): Development of a 54’ x 88’ outdoor sport court with a rubberized surface for basketball & pickleball.
- Endmoor Drop-In Centre – Byemoor ($400): Repairs to basement windows & sealing to reduce heating costs.
Over the past 20 years, the County has invested over $1.76 million into approximately 100 projects, ranging from new roofs & furnaces to ball diamonds.
“We are grateful to the volunteer organizations and community groups whose dedication helps make these projects possible,” Clarke added
Endmoor Arena Hot Water Tank Funding
During their meeting on Dec. 10, 2025, council also approved a request from the Sullivan Lake West Agricultural Society for $12,000 in immediate funding.
The Endmoor Arena in the hamlet of Byemoor recently suffered an unexpected failure of its hot water tank.
Council voted to fund $12,00 of the total $13,321.16 cost of the replacement through the County of Stettler’s recreation emergency reserve.
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
