Drumheller Town Council passed the Land Acquisition policy for the Drumheller Resiliency and Flood Mitigation Program.
    This policy provides a fair and objective process for selecting and acquiring properties needed for the Drumheller Resiliency and Flood Mitigation Program.
    The policy will need to be reviewed by the provincial and federal governments before any acquisitions can begin.
    A Town-owned company 878947 Alberta Ltd. will be the land purchaser. The Chief Resiliency and Flood Mitigation Officer – Darwin Durnie will be the manager of 878947 Alberta Ltd. and will be authorized to execute purchase agreements.
    “Parcels for acquisition have not yet been selected.” Durnie said.  “I am committed to a respectful and confidential process to assist residents to relocate in Drumheller.”
    Scott Land and Lease is the land agent for the program. They will undertake initial contact with owners, conduct negotiations and secure signed purchase agreements. Each acquisition will be determined on an individual basis.
    Greg Meidinger – Senior VP & Project Manager Scott Land & Lease says “we are encouraged town council has adopted this proactive and transparent policy for land acquisitions. We have close to 30 years experience as land agents and are dedicated to a fair process.”
    Land acquisitions will be based on fair market value. To determine fair market value, the Drumheller Resiliency and Flood Mitigation Office will engage independent appraisers. Purchase a price will be either the fair market value or the 2014 tax assessment value for the property, whichever is greater.
    Mayor Heather Colberg explains “I’m delighted to see this policy adopted. As a flood community, it is critical to have our processes in place. Once we get the green light from our federal and provincial partners, we can start resolving issues for residents that have been patiently waiting years for action.”

Land Acquisition Policy-FAQ
What is the land acquisition policy?
    It is the policy that provides a fair and objective process for selecting properties that will be required for the resiliency and flood mitigation program.
Why will lands be acquired by the Town?
    There are several circumstances that may result in the acquisition of land for the resiliency and flood mitigation program. They include:
•To make room for the river
•For construction of infrastructure such as dikes and berms
•To remove occupants and developments that are at high risk from flooding
•For natural areas and parks
•For borrow areas (an area where soil is excavated for use at another location) to provide fill for present and future dikes
•For development areas for displaced residents and businesses
What lands will be required?
    The number of properties is still undetermined and no parcels have yet been selected for purchase. The properties to be required will be based on an individual risk assessment considering the following factors: people, property, environment and economy. These will be weighed against the frequency and impact of potential flooding.
Who will purchase the lands?
    A Town-owned company (878947 Alberta Ltd.) will be the land purchaser.   The Chief Resiliency and Flood Mitigation Officer – Darwin Durnie will be the manager of the Land Corporation and will be authorized to execute purchase agreements.  
How does the land acquisition process work?
    Land acquisitions will be based on fair market value.
    To determine fair market value, the Drumheller Resiliency and Flood Mitigation Office (DRFMO) will engage an independent appraiser to establish a fair market value. Purchase price will be either the fair market value or the 2014 tax assessment value for the property, whichever is greater.
    Scott Land and Lease will be the land agent. They will undertake initial contact with owners, conduct negotiations and secure signed purchase agreements. Each acquisition will be determined on an individual basis.
When will acquisition begin?
    This policy must be deemed acceptable by the provincial and federal governments before any acquisitions can begin. Parcels for acquisition have not yet been selected. The grant funding guidelines also indicate that before any land purchases can commence, a greenhouse gas emission assessment, a climate impact assessment, and indigenous consultation must be completed. It is anticipated these will be finished by late spring.
How much money is being spent on land acquisitions?
    While it is difficult to determine the amount, it’s important to note that each acquisition will be determined individually based on fair market value.  
What do I do if I’m a homeowner who thinks their property will be acquired?
At this time, no action is required.  Parcels have not yet been selected for purchase. Once the process commences, a Scott Land & Lease representative will contact affected homeowners.

Wheatland County Council has appointed Mr. Brian Henderson to the position of Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) effective immediately.

"On behalf of Council, I am pleased to announce, the appointment of Brian Henderson as the Chief Administrative Officer for Wheatland County," said Reeve Amber Link. The unanimous support for the appointment is a result of his leadership style that aligns with Council’s strategic priorities and commitment to fiscal responsibility.

Mr. Henderson has ten years of experience working with municipalities across Canada, including working at Wheatland County since June of 2016 as the General Manager of Corporate and Financial Services. In addition, he has been serving as the Interim Chief Administrative Officer since June 2019.

"I feel honoured to have this opportunity to make a positive difference for the community and the organization. I look forward to working with Council, staff, community members, and neighbouring municipalities to help take the organization to the next level,” Mr. Henderson stated.

Mr. Henderson is Council’s only employee and will lead the entire municipal organization. The CAO is responsible for adherence to the Municipal Government Act (MGA), County policies, and bylaws while managing the overall operations of Wheatland County. As a trusted advisor, the CAO is also accountable for strategic initiatives and priorities, as set out by Council. The CAO is a visionary leader for the County, elected officials, and residents, while serving as an inspirational ambassador for positive workplace culture.