Coalhurst councillors approve Respectful Interactions with Employees and Council Policy C-13

Posted on August 15, 2025 by Sunny South News

Town of Coalhurst

Here are some highlights from the July 22, 2025, town council meeting. This is not an official record of the meeting. For more information – including the full agenda listing, visit http://www.coalhurst.diligent.community/Portal 

Coalhurst Council Approves Policy to Support Respectful Interactions with Employees and Council

At its July 22, 2025, regular meeting, Coalhurst town council approved the Respectful Interactions with Employees and Council Policy C-13, aimed at setting clear standards of conduct for public interactions with town staff and elected officials. The policy aligns with Alberta’s occupational health and safety laws and will help the town respond consistently and fairly when dealing with difficult or unsafe situations.

The policy was developed in response to a rise in concerning incidents and reinforces the town’s commitment to a safe and respectful workplace. While most community members engage respectfully, the policy addresses situations involving frivolous, vexatious, harassing, or violent behaviour.

Council emphasized that public input remains welcome and valued, and this policy simply formalizes expectations for appropriate conduct. It also outlines consequences and procedures for handling inappropriate interactions, ensuring staff and council can continue serving the community effectively. To review the policy, visit http://www.coalhurst.ca 

Construction season in Coalhurst – Updates

Coalhurst residents can expect a busy construction season with several key projects getting underway in the community. Residents are advised to follow the town’s website and Facebook page for updates.

Work continues for the installation of a storm trunk main from the wetlands along 45 Avenue towards the Sundance subdivision. Topsoil stripping and pre-cut work began July 3, and pipe installation began the week of July 7. There have been no detours or lane closures to date, but this may change. A full closure at 45th Ave and 6th Street is expected later in August. More information is available at http://www.coalhurst.ca 

Capital street improvements began with various sidewalk repairs and replacements throughout town between July 15 and July 25. Street improvement work is ongoing, including milling and paving of deteriorated roadways in the following areas: • McDermott Road (52 Ave to 3rd Street) • 52 Ave (4th Street to 5th Street) • 6th Street (Spruce Drive to 49th Ave)

These upgrades aim to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility. Letters were hand delivered to the affected residents and construction signage will be in place when roadwork begins.

Construction and paving of the community centre parking lot was scheduled to begin in July. The existing gravel lots will be upgraded to paved surfaces with painted stall markings to improve accessibility and usability. The south parking lot was scheduled to be closed from July 23 – August 2, and the north parking lot was scheduled for July 28 – August 31.

The new central community organics bin was installed at the recycling depot on July 11 and is now in service. Residents can compost their food waste, food-spoiled paper, leaves, plants, and grass clippings on a trial basis until October 31, 2025. The program will be re-evaluated in November 2025. Visit http://www.coalhurst.ca for a list of accepted items.

Construction on pathway and parking lot improvements for Coalhurst’s first official off-leash dog park has been delayed due to rain. However, the contractor is aware that this project is a priority for the town and is committed to completing it as soon as possible. Located northeast of the wetlands, off 55 Avenue and Range Road 223, the dog park will provide a safe, designated space for dogs and their owners to enjoy. While the fencing has been in place for some time and many residents have already been enjoying the dog park, it will need to be closed during this construction period, which is expected to take about 2–3 weeks. Once construction is complete, the town will host a grand opening event with the mayor and council. Residents are invited to stay tuned for updates. More information is available at http://www.coalhurst.ca 

Sanitary sewer trunk lining began with sanitary line cleaning and preparation from July 21 to August 1. These inspections are part of preparations for trenchless sewer lining construction scheduled for later this summer. There will be no road closures during this phase; however, residents can expect to see construction vehicles parked in the north end of town, including 52nd Avenue and surrounding streets. Pipe lining will begin on August 5 and will take approximately two weeks to complete.