Season's Greetings from the Reeve

As I look back on 2025, I am reminded once again why Saddle Hills County is such a remarkable place to call home. Having lived here all my life, I am proud to serve a community that works hard, looks out for one another, and continues to build a future our young people can be excited about.

This past year brought meaningful progress across the County, and alongside my fellow Councilors we will endeavour to continue the previous Council’s work to strengthen services, support local families, and invest in the long-term well-being of the region. 

Ensuring reliable access to clean water for residents, businesses, farms, and industry remains one of Council’s top priorities. Construction of the Central Peace Regional Water Project moved ahead steadily in 2025, with major milestones reached on the wet well excavation, trestle bridge, and micro-tunnel intake. Work continues on the rural water access through the County’s Rural Potable Water Project, the new filtered non-potable water fill station at the Ksituan Water Treatment Plant was opened—available free-of-charge to residents.

The Blueberry Fire Hall construction was completed, including the replacement of three fire engines. Into 2026 there will be continued investment in the volunteer fire departments and medical first responders who keep our region safe, including the construction of the new Happy Valley Fire Hall. 

Supporting community groups continued to be a major focus for Council. Grants supported local organizations to deliver events, programs, and services across the County. Council also continued to invest in key services for families, through programs like the Childcare Subsidy, Christmas Hamper Program, Home Support Services, and various other grants and bursaries, designed to make day-to-day life a little easier for residents.

Key regional partnerships will remain a focus. Council looks forward to continued collaboration, and strengthening working relationships with neighbouring communities, stakeholders, and industry to support shared growth and regional economic resilience.

Looking ahead, Council has set a solid financial foundation through the 2026 budget, continuing to invest in essential areas like public works, protective services, agriculture, water and waste management, recreation, and community care. The Central Peace Regional Water Project is slated for Phase three to begin in 2026, focusing on the Regional Water Treatment Plant reservoirs.

Saddle Hills County is about more than numbers and projects. It is about the way we live—camping under big skies, fishing our lakes and rivers, and gathering at events that bring our communities together. It is about supporting local businesses, from homegrown entrepreneurs to large industry partners. It is about the people who make this region vibrant, resilient, and proud.

Thank you to all residents, volunteers, community groups, and staff for your contributions this year. I look forward to continuing this work together in 2026. Wishing you and your families a safe and joyful Christmas season, and a bright year ahead.

Sincerely,
Gerry Richard