We welcomed Jim Wood, Mayor of Red Deer County.   He has been an elected official for since 2004, and the Mayor since 2010.  He is now completing his final term so this is his final " State of the County" address to Rotary.  

During 2025 the Phase 1 of the Rural Broadband network Project was completed with the installation of over 250 miles of fiber optic transmission lines and 6 Broadband Internet towers as a cost of $31 million.   This has strengthen connections and also moves the county forward as the technology changes and takes a greater role.  The long awaited  new road connecting the airport to C & E Trail at McKenzie Road will be completed in October 2025.  Gasoline Alley continues to expand with new housing starts, a roundabout, etc.  In 2024 construction included 140 residences (houses, manufactured homes), 155 residential garages, shops, additions and renovation and 4 multiplexes of 10 units each.  There were also 62 non-residential building starts and renovations/additions. These include the UFA, Equs, a wedding site, and the flour mill.  Jim also shared information regarding the ongoing improvements to the Big Bend Airport, located west of Innisfail.  There are over 7500 flights and 1500 users  as it is often used for skydiving and is a secondary site for STARS.  It was interesting to learn that the county does not own any equipment such as trucks, graders, etc. as they have experienced considerable cost savings by entering into lease agreements.  Jim pondered that  may be the only municipality to be using this strategy in Alberta.  The collaborative relationship between the City of Red Deer and the County continues to be positive and has resulted in overall growth in land and partnerships through the Intermunicipal Development Plan. 

Jim thanked Rotary for the many opportunities to attend meetings and commented on the friendly welcome he has always received.   He is looking forward to the next chapter in his life as it will give him more flexibility.   We wish him well and encourage him to consider spending some of his "free time" by becoming becoming a Rotary member.