Lots of plots in Wheatland County cemeteries

By Sharon McLeay Times Contributor

Nothing is as sure as death and taxes, so Wheatland County council has asked county staff to review its cemetery capacity for residents in need.
The county has two cemeteries, one in Gleichen and one in Rosebud. There was another recently approved to service for a new Hutterite colony.
Based on five-year population growth speculations and 2017 mortality rates, the morbid prophesy is 66 people per year will pass away in the county. With the aging baby boom, that may triple to 171 deaths per year by 2031.
However, when compared to the space available in the cemeteries for burials, it was determined there will still be room in Wheatland County.
Canadian statistics show 70 per cent of people favour cremation, over burial.
Alan Parkin, Wheatland County chief administrative officer, said overall, Canadian statistics may be influenced by urban statistics and rural area numbers might be slightly different.
The review concluded the county may need to develop more plots in the Gleichen cemetery long term, and develop more cremation niches or allow multiple urn burials in traditional lots. They also suggested the possibility of marketing plots to urban areas, where cemetery spaces are dwindling.
There was a suggestion that fees be reviewed, as Wheatland County charges rates well below eight other random municipalities polled.

County retains lawyer for compost problem consultation
Council approved Gowling WLG law firm be retained to review information on the Green For Life composting facility, which will provide guidance and actionable direction to council. They were chosen from five firms considered for the job.
“Gowling WLG has extensive experience in environmental law cases across Canada and is an international firm with many partners versed in environmental law that can assist its local partner,” said Parkin.
The lawyer representing Wheatland County has 12 years legal experience, specializing in mining and energy sectors, and has represented cases in the Supreme Court of Canada.

Funds for Hussar Seed Cleaning Plant
Borrowing from the Alberta Financial Capital Authority for the Hussar Seed Plant went through first reading and permission was given to acquire $2.5 million that would then be lent to the Hussar Seed Cleaning Plant for expansion and renovations.
“Just for backup on that, we did this originally when the Hussar Seed Cleaning Plant was set up. They paid it off and they are going to pay this one off too. They are expanding the seed cleaning plant and they need the upgrades. They have a good manager in place now, so I think it is a good risk,” said Councillor Ben Armstrong.