Throughout our lives most of us have done something, that if we could do it all over again, we would have made a different choice. For the most part,…
Mayor's Monthly Editorial, June 2025
Over the summer months across Canada, local governments gear up to make improvements or fix infrastructure that needs repair. While we understand the frustration that comes with road closures, or limited access to amenities, these upgrades are necessary to ensure the long-term service and safety of communities. Local governments understand the frustration but completing projects in the winter is not feasible nor practical.
The District of Sparwood is no exception. This year we must fix a water line issue that has been pushed off for far too long. The Lions Park water looping project will cause disruptions for not only those that live in the area, but for anyone wanting to access the Spray Park and Lions Park area. The importance of this project is to ensure that a water line that currently exists will flow properly and no longer dead head. Along with this project we will also be putting in new streetlights and an upgraded water line to Lions Park. When the new streetlights are installed the overhead power lines that exist will be removed. This will result in uniformity along the road and more efficient trail maintenance as one power pole impedes access to the asphalt trail located in between residences on Red Cedar Crescent.
The second project is much-needed improvements to our Community Hall. As most know, the Community Hall was built several decades ago and is now in need of upgrades. We are going to provide better functionality by creating one space into two. This will be achieved by adding a moveable dividing wall so that two programs can run simultaneously. We will also be replacing the accessibility lift with an elevator, increasing the ability to move people and goods from the main floor to the Hall. The best time for us to complete this project is during the summer when there are far less indoor programs and activities planned.
Our third and largest project that will be started this year is upgrades to the Wastewater Treatment Facility. There will be no disruption to the citizens of Sparwood while this major project is underway. When completed, it will provide residents with reliable and safe wastewater treatment.
We know construction season is never convenient—but these projects are vital. Municipalities have a very sh0ort window between snow seasons to get important work done, and that window closes faster than we think.
During the summer the Recreation Facility Advisory Committee will continue to do its important work on engaging with citizens and user groups on the future of recreation in Sparwood. The engagement has already began and we were pleased to see so many people attend and share their thoughts at the free community BBQ. We strongly encourage all residents to complete the survey, https://www.sparwood.ca/municipal-hall/rfac, or chat with representatives during a pop-up event with the next one taking place during the Canada Day celebrations.
You can learn more about projects and opportunities to engage at www.sparwood.ca.
