Clearwater County Reeve Michelle Swanson is striking an optimistic tone about the county’s upcoming amalgamation with the Village of Caroline, though she acknowledges that significant work lies ahead. The two municipalities will officially merge on Jan. 1, 2025, after years of discussion, dating back to as early as 2004.
Swanson reflected on the history of the amalgamation talks, acknowledging that as long as she’s lived in the West Country, the issue of either amalgamation or dissolution has been a topic of discussion in Caroline. While the final decision has been made, she stresses, the real work will begin in the new year.
“Both councils and administrations have already done the preliminary work,” she explains. “But we still have to organize the interim council, swear in new members, and begin the process of aligning bylaws and policies.” Swanson also points out, the process will take time, likely extending through to the next general elections in October 2025.
The first organizational meeting for the new municipality will take place Jan. 7, 2025. At that meeting, councillors will swear in the interim council, which includes the current Clearwater County council members and Councillor Barb Gibson from Caroline. A key goal will be harmonizing the two communities’ bylaws and processes, from snow clearing to public works, ensuring the transition is as smooth as possible.
Swanson believes the amalgamation will bring tangible benefits to Caroline. “Caroline residents will now have access to the county’s resources, including economic development expertise and recreational support,” she explains. The county’s experience in infrastructure improvements, such as the recent work in Leslieville, will help address Caroline’s own needs, which Swanson expects to be clarified in upcoming reports on infrastructure deficits.
While there may be challenges, Swanson reassures Caroline residents that the village’s unique character will not be lost.
“I don’t believe Caroline will ever lose its identity and its historical value and background,” she says. “The residents will definitely keep that alive. If anything, we’d like to help enhance it and support it like we do with Nordegg and Leslieville.”
Swanson also highlights the potential for new opportunities, such as the proposed bike trail project, which has been a topic of discussion between the village and county. The new partnership will allow for a more comprehensive approach to projects like these, she says, benefiting both Caroline and Clearwater County residents.
As the merger draws closer, Swanson remains optimistic. “It’s been a long time coming, and I’m excited to get started and welcome the Caroline residents to the county,” she says.
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