Standard gets better internet plan as it awaits new funding

By Fernando Moreno-Prado Times Contributor

The Village of Standard has entered the autumn season and left behind a summer of “business as usual.” Such business brought some changes including more activity at the sportsground with the annual Standard Rodeo, along with ball tournaments and multiple Gymkhanas events. 

Standard recently partnered with Connect Mobility “when there was demand for reliable, fast and affordable internet,” said Mayor Martin Gauthier in an email message. “They now offer Rally TV and continue to work on adding more options to provide bundle packages. We hope to get more funding to expand this internet to our rural neighbours.”

The village is awaiting funding for industrial developments. Gauthier mentioned a proposal to provide solar energy to municipal and non-profit buildings and “help reduce the ever-increasing cost of power.”

The village council has updated their land use bylaw and is currently reviewing all bylaws, policies and procedures to meet legislative requirements.

The past year has not been without challenges for Standard, particularly the budget challenges where the council seeks to meet consumer expectations for goods and services, while also keeping taxes down and replacing aging infrastructure before an emergency arises from any lack of upgrades. Gauthier mentioned that it can be rather challenging to attract small and large business into the village.

For the future of the village, Gauthier assures there is a plan to build amenities for families. This will be done by “beautifying the village” through the development of Centennial Park, walking paths and the Broadway. Economic development will take place through the selling of residential lots and the finishing of 14 one-acre parcels in the industrial park.

“Our strategic plan is to create opportunities,” said Gauthier. “We have large residential lots for sale and industrial lots will soon be available.”