A little of this, a little of that, and a day of Remembrance…

Gleichen Community Development Council

 

After a hectic summer and start to the fall, it’s time to update everyone on what’s happening with the Gleichen Community Development Council.

Right off the top, thanks go out to Wheatland County Public Works for their tremendous efforts helping the community clean up from the Aug. 14 storm. Tree pick-up and removal went smoothly and come Fall Fair Weekend, streets and parks were back to normal.

A reminder to all residents that are dropping off “organic” wood matter [tree branches, shrubs…], please try to avoid dropping into the burn pit. There is an area in the north east end of the transfer station, by the gravel pit, where this wood can be dropped off for chipping. It’s our hope that this chipped wood can be used lay out the beginning of a walking path around the community. We have asked Wheatland County to provide more permanent signage directing where to dump tree waste.

Here’s hoping the water tower re-shingling goes off without a hitch and allows us to hold a rededication of the tower this spring in time for our community’s 130 birthday. The Community Development Council is looking forward to working with Wheatland County on some ideas for developing the land around the water tower to tie in with Beaupre Park.

The Oct. 16 Wheatland County council meeting saw the Public Hearing related to bylaw 2012-00080 – a Public Behavior bylaw. The main debate during the hearing was the “Panhandling” section of the bylaw, and after much back and forth with ideas and concerns, a final draft was read through council and accepted. The final document is one that the Community Development Council fully endorse and believe will provide Protective Services and the RCMP with enough flexibility to enforce it while keeping in mind the rights of business owners, citizens and public property in all communities.

At a September Wheatland County council meeting, the County has agreed to rename the arena access road separating the cemetery from the school sports field “Veteran’s Way” in honour of those who have served their country in times of war and peacekeeping efforts. We’re hoping to have the renaming and dedication complete before Remembrance Day.

A reminder that Remembrance Day is on a Sunday this year. Ceremonies commence at the Community Centre at 9:45 a.m. [doors open at 9], continuing out to the Cenotaph for the laying of the wreaths at 11 a.m., then moving up to additional wreath laying at the “Field of Honour” in the cemetery. Lunch will follow back at the Community Centre. Those wishing to help out either with set up the day before or assist during any of the ceremonies, please contact Doris at 403-734-0114. It’s great to see so many people come out year after year to pay their respects to those who have served and we’re hoping to see another large turnout this year.

Keep a look out for information on this year’s “Christmas Decorating Contest” for Gleichen. We’re encouraging the community to join in and help us “light up” the season. Contest judging will be held Dec. 16 with winners announced just before Christmas.

Gleichen residents wishing to discuss any concerns or ideas regarding our community are encouraged to contact any member of the Development Council or email us at gcdc@gleichen.ca.