December 2025
Harvest is complete, and we enter a reflective—and hopefully slower—season.
The 2025 Council is also beginning a new chapter. Seven Councillors have been sworn in, received comprehensive training, been assigned to more than forty municipal and community committees, and have started their role of serving all residents of the MD of Taber. Our guiding legislation, the Municipal Government Act, states that Councillors must consider the welfare and interests of the municipality as a whole and bring to Council’s attention anything that would promote those interests.
Council and committee meetings are open to the public. Council meetings are streamed live, recorded, and available on the MD of Taber YouTube channel. Every Council meeting includes an opportunity for residents to speak to Council. There is also a formal option to appear as a delegation by calling the office or submitting a simple form—either in person or online. Councillors’ contact information is available in the newsletter and on the website. Councillors want to hear residents’ ideas and suggestions. Coffee with Council and the Annual General Meeting are additional opportunities to connect. Daily municipal updates are available on the website and social media channels, including WhatsApp, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter), as well as through our weekly digital newsletter. Subscribe here.
The season of snow and ice is upon us. The MD of Taber prioritizes paved and hard-surface roads, main hamlet routes, emergency service roads, and school bus routes. Residents are reminded to be patient and travel safely while roads are cleared. When removing snow from yards or lanes, please do not place snow in ditches (burrow pits), as this negatively impacts drainage. If you have a road or other concern, please submit it through our Service Tracker, which allows the municipality to receive, track, and respond.
It is budget season for Council. The MD of Taber has an operating budget of $36.2 million, funded by 65% taxation, with the remainder coming from fees and grants. This budget serves 7,934 residents and supports 2,400 km of roads, three hamlets, recreation, and municipal infrastructure. Thank you to residents who submitted budget feedback. In the coming weeks, Council will set the interim budget. Once the municipal assessment is complete, the final budget and mill rates will be set in April.
Council’s current priorities include the Land Management Plan for 82,000 acres of municipally owned land, a detailed Asset Management Plan, and a Recreation Master Plan that supports hamlet and regional facilities while recognizing our robust volunteer force. To maintain current service levels with fair taxation, Council must increase assessment through economic development and optimize existing assets. Priorities are evaluated and adjusted as needed.
This season is also a time of giving. If you can share your time and talents, many organizations working hard to serve those in need would welcome your help. We are grateful to the incredible volunteers in our municipality who fundraise, serve on boards, coordinate recreation, coach, lead 4-H, host rodeos—the list goes on. Congratulations to Vauxhall Agriculture Society’s Judy Leeson, Volunteer of the Year. Her tireless work in the community, especially as the driving force behind Vauxhall Cowboy Days and the new multipurpose building, leaves a lasting mark on Vauxhall and the surrounding area.
Eighty-five men and women, supported by their families and employers, proudly serve as part of our Regional Fire Services. Their expertise, commitment, and courage help keep our communities safe, and we are deeply grateful for their service. If you feel called to make a difference, we encourage you to call MDTRFS at 403-223-1180.
The holiday season can also be difficult. Check on your neighbours and take time for yourself. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available—including agriculture-specific resources:
- 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.
During the holiday season, find time to connect with family and neighbours. Council and Administration wish you and your family a Merry Christmas. May 2026 be a year of good health, prosperity, and community building.
