September 2026
Summer has quickly become a memory, and the shorter days of fall remind us that harvest season is well underway and preparations for winter are beginning.
Over the past several months, the MD of Taber has been focused on road maintenance, celebrating family and community, advancing economic development initiatives, managing municipal agricultural lands, and beginning work on the 2027 budget. While frequent rainfall created challenges and slowed some projects, it also provided much-needed moisture that benefited our region.
One of Council's most significant ongoing discussions is the future of our road network. Council and Administration have spent countless hours evaluating approximately 2,400 kilometres of roads throughout the municipality. Many of our hard-surfaced roads are reaching the end of their service life. Hard-surfaced roads include any roadway that is not gravel and, due to engineering and environmental requirements, they cannot be maintained using past practices or materials.
Many of these roads were not designed to accommodate today's traffic volumes or heavier loads. As deterioration continues and safety concerns increase, some roads have been, and others will be, converted back to gravel. This remains an important budget discussion, and resident feedback is critical as Council evaluates the costs and benefits of available options.
Summer rainfall also delayed regular maintenance activities, shoulder pulls, and drainage projects. Road conditions are continuously monitored, with safety remaining our highest priority. If you encounter an unsafe or deteriorating road, please submit a Service Tracker request or contact your Councillor. Service Tracker can also be used for information requests, bylaw concerns, development inquiries, and agricultural services.
Congratulations to Wes, Jared, and the Odland family, recipients of the 2026 Calgary Stampede BMO Farm Family Award. Wes captured the spirit of rural Alberta perfectly when he said, "Farming is our livelihood, but being able to walk down the street and talk to our neighbours gives us a true sense of community." Their commitment to agriculture, innovation, stewardship, and community service reflects the values that make our district strong.
Throughout the summer, Council attended numerous community events, including the Apex Awards, Canada Day celebrations in Vauxhall and Taber, the grand opening of the Vauxhall Agricultural Society Rodeo Grounds, Barnwell Days, the Clearview Lodge Family BBQ, the 100th Anniversary of the Taber Royal Canadian Legion, and Cornfest. These events showcased the dedication of volunteers, sponsors, and organizations whose efforts strengthen our communities.
Economic development continues to be a major priority for Council as we work to support long-term growth and maintain fair and equitable taxation. Meetings with federal and provincial representatives, Rural Municipalities of Alberta, industry leaders, and participation in a SouthGrow trade mission to China demonstrate the strong opportunities emerging in value-added agriculture. Thank you to the Retlaw Historical Society, Molnar Farms, and Prairie Gold Produce for hosting tours and showcasing our region.
Residential growth opportunities in Grassy Lake and Enchant continue to move forward, while the MD of Taber is also evaluating opportunities involving the airport, business park, and other development initiatives. These investments are focused on creating long-term economic opportunities that contribute to municipal sustainability and a stable tax base.
Council has also continued its work on policies governing approximately 82,000 acres of municipally owned agricultural land. Following extensive consultation with residents, legal advisors, and stakeholder groups over the past four years, several important policies have now been adopted, including the Land Sale Policy, Grazing Lease Policy, and Community Pasture Lease Policy. The Cultivated Lands Policy was approved earlier this year.
These policies establish a framework for responsible land stewardship, agricultural advancement, and long-term municipal sustainability. Residents are encouraged to review the complete list of policies on the MD of Taber website: mdtaber.ab.ca/p/lmp
Taxes are due September 30. Property taxes fund essential municipal services including roads, hamlet infrastructure, emergency services, parks and recreation, water, sewer, waste collection, planning, and many other community services.
In 2026, Council maintained municipal mill rates for most assessment classes. Farmland mill rate increased 55%, resulting in increased tax revenues of approximately $1.3 million, while taxes collected from other assessment classes increased primarily because of increased assessed values rather than mill rate changes. Property taxes generate approximately $21.2 million annually, with contributions coming from residential, farmland, commercial, industrial, and linear assessment properties.
Council has committed to reviewing tax equity and equalization as part of future budget discussions. Residents are also reminded that the Tax Instalment Payment Plan (TIPP) is available for the 2027 taxation year. Visit to learn more: mdtaber.ab.ca/p/tipp
Please join us for Coffee with Council on September 24 from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. at the Hays Community Centre. It is an opportunity to ask questions, share concerns, and speak directly with Council.
Agriculture, family responsibilities, finances, and everyday life can feel overwhelming. Asking for help is a sign of strength. Support resources include:
- FCSS Counselling: 587-370-3728
- National Farmer Crisis Line: 1-866-327-6701 (1-866-FARMS01)
- Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 9-8-8, or visit 988.ca. If you need immediate help, please visit the emergency department or call 9-1-1.
- AGTALK: domore.ag/agtalk — Online support and connection with 24/7 clinical moderators.
Many of the topics discussed in this message are expanded on our website and social media channels. Keep up-to-date on MDT by following the MD of Taber online, subscribe to , and watch Council meetings. Share your thoughts with Council regarding the proposed name change to Taber County.
October 19 is Alberta’s Referendum. Council encourages you to learn about the questions and take part in the democratic process by voting. Additional details and register to vote:elections.ab.ca
On behalf of Council, thank you to our firefighters and their families, volunteers, community organizations, businesses, neighbouring municipalities, partners, and MD of Taber staff. Your dedication and service help strengthen our municipality every day.
We wish all agricultural producers asafe and successful harvest season and look forward to continuing our conversations with residents throughout the coming year.
