The Committee seeking input into the proposed amalgamation of the Village of Caroline into Clearwater County says it has finalized discussions for the report to the Minister of Municipal Affairs.

During a May 24 meeting, officials say councillors asked challenging questions while weighing the options to ensure the best possible representation of the community during the transition period of amalgamation.

Officials say the difficult conversations led to some tough decisions, ultimately guided by public input from recent engagement activities.

Key outcomes and decisions include:

Seniors Housing Agreement
• Recommendations for the Rocky Senior Housing Council Board composition are provided, pending the amalgamation of Clearwater County and the Village of Caroline.

Remediation of Brownfield Properties
• The Committee noted there were no active bylaws or tax incentives regarding brownfield properties in either jurisdiction – defined as any vacant commercial or industrial property that is
associated with an active bylaw or tax incentive.

Public Participation Plan
• The Committee approved the revised May 2024 Clearwater County – Village of Caroline Amalgamation Negotiations Public Participation Plan which notes that the final report (tentatively
scheduled for June 14), it will be posted publicly before the report goes to both councils.

What We Heard Report
• A third-party consultant presented the ‘What We Heard Report’ from May 15, 2024, which will be included in the final report to the Minister of Municipal Affairs.

Reconsideration of Council Representation and Electoral Wards
• The proposed amalgamated municipality will have seven council members, elected by wards. One councillor will represent each ward, and the Chief Elected Official (Reeve) will be appointed by the council. The Village of Caroline will be in Division 6 and become a hamlet.

Reconsideration of Interim Council
• An interim council of eight members will be established from January 1, 2025, to the next municipal election on October 20, 2025.

With the negotiation discussions wrapped up, the next steps include:
• June 14: Committee to review draft Amalgamation Negotiation Report.
• June 28: Final Report posted online for public information.
• July 23: Report presented to Clearwater County Council & Village of Caroline Council for approval.
• July 31: Report submitted to Minister of Municipal Affairs.
• Aug 1 – Dec 31: Minister recommends formation Order in Council if councils proceed.
• Jan 1, 2025: Effective date of amalgamation.

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