As 2024 comes to a close, Clearwater County Reeve Michelle Swanson reflects on a year marked by both accomplishments and challenges, with an eye toward continued growth and development in 2025.
Swanson described the year as “rewarding,” highlighting the successful culmination of long-term projects and goals. Among the most significant milestones was the opening of the Nordegg Discovery Centre exhibit in May, a project she says was years in the making. “We finally got that opened up, and it was a big moment for us,” Swanson said, underscoring the importance of local tourism. The reopening of Crescent Falls, which resumed operations in the summer, also had a significant impact on the county’s tourism industry.
Additionally, Swanson reflected on recent developments with the amalgamation of The Village of Caroline into Clearwater County, now officially coming to fruition on Jan. 1.
However, Swanson says one of the year’s most notable achievements came in June with the announcement of provincial and federal funding for the county’s broadband project. This major funding boost is expected to significantly improve high-speed internet access for underserved areas within the county. “That would be the biggest success of the year,” Swanson emphasized, acknowledging how critical the project is for both rural residents and local businesses.
Despite these successes, the year wasn’t without its challenges. Swanson pointed to ongoing issues with internet connectivity in certain regions of the county, an area she hopes will be addressed as the broadband development progresses.
As more economic development opportunities, like the expansion of Nordegg and ongoing work in Leslieville take root, Swanson noted the importance of maintaining a balance between fostering growth and supporting the rural character that defines the area.
Swanson points to the recently passed 2025 operating and capital budget, as financial pressures remained a concern throughout 2024. “What was earmarked two or three years ago has crept up in cost,” she says. “We understand that sometimes those projects can be delayed, but we’re committed to maintaining programs and services overall.
As a case in point, due to budget considerations, council recently pushed back the central waste transfer station project proposed for north of Rocky, and a heated storage project a year later to 2026.
Looking ahead to the new year, Swanson is optimistic but aware of the challenges that lie ahead. A key issue will be the amalgamation of Clearwater County and the Village of Caroline. “That will be the biggest challenge, at least in the first few months,” she acknowledged, adding that this transition, while challenging, will be a significant step forward in ensuring cohesive growth and governance across the region.
As the year closes, Swanson extends her well-wishes to the county’s residents, emphasizing council’s commitment to working with them through the opportunities and challenges that the new year will bring. “Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone. We’re looking forward to joining the Interim Council in 2025,” Swanson concluded.
With important projects on the horizon and a fresh year ahead, Clearwater County is poised to continue its development while addressing the needs of its residents and the broader community.
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READ MORE:
- Clearwater County approves 2025 budget; $57M for operating, nearly $85M for capital
- Clearwater County broadband project receives significant grant funding
- Municipal Affairs formally orders amalgamation of the Village of Caroline into Clearwater County
- “Mixed emotions” Caroline mayor issues final statement ahead of January 1 amalgamation
- New exhibit to be unveiled in Nordegg
- Nordegg Discovery Centre to receive Alberta Heritage Award
- Crescent Falls ready to be enjoyed again
- Nordegg Development Plan work continues into fall months, more to come
- New amenities added to Leslieville Recreation Area
- Clearwater County Deputy Reeve Sydney Graham resigns
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