Title
Consideration of Council Member Appointments to External Boards and Committees
Proposed Motions
1. That Parkland County continue its participation in the Pembina Agricultural and Recreational Society and appoint a Council representative in accordance with the Society’s governing documents.
2. That Parkland County participate on the Stony Plain and Parkland Pioneer Museum Society Board and appoint a Council representative to serve on the Board.
3. That Parkland County participate on the Heritage Agricultural Society Board, operating as Red Brick Common, and appoint a Council representative to serve on the Board.
Body
Recommendation by Administration
Administration recommends that Council consider the County's participation in the Pembina Agricultural and Recreational Society and potential participation in the Stony Plain and Parkland Pioneer Museum Society and Heritage Agricultural Society (Red Brick Common) and provide direction regarding appointments and representation.
Purpose
To obtain Council direction regarding potential appointments to external boards and committees.
Summary
During the 2026 review of Council’s Boards and Committees appointment list, Council generally supported continued participation in the Pembina Agricultural and Recreational Society (PARS). Feedback indicated interest in strengthening the County’s role and representation. Continued participation in PARS would provide Council with a connection to the Society’s agricultural, recreational and community activities and an opportunity to consider matters of shared interest.
The Stony Plain and Parkland Pioneer Museum is not currently included on the County’s Council Committee appointment list. It is being brought forward for consideration to be added.
Council participation would provide a municipal perspective; support information sharing, and strengthen the County’s connection with regional heritage and culture.
The Heritage Agricultural Society Board, operating as Red Brick Common, is not currently included on the County’s Council Committee appointment list. It is being brought forward for consideration to be added. Council participation would provide a municipal perspective; support information sharing, and strengthen the County’s connection with regional heritage and culture.
Background
Pembina Agricultural and Recreational Society (PARS)
PARS operates the Pembina Rec-Plex and supports agricultural, recreational and community programs and events in the Evansburg area. The society also works with local organizations to respond to changing community needs and improve quality of life. Meetings are held monthly except in July, August and December, with one annual meeting.
The Stony Plain and Parkland Pioneer Museum Society
The Society collects, preserves and presents artifacts and stories that reflect the history and rural heritage of Parkland County, Stony Plain and surrounding communities, with a primary historical focus from 1880 to 1950. The Museum serves as a cultural and educational resource through historic buildings, exhibits, demonstrations, research, curriculum-connected school programs, public events and hands-on activities. Its Board includes one appointed representative from each municipal partner, Parkland County and the Town of Stony Plain. If appointed, the County’s representative would serve as a full voting director of the Society. The representative would participate in the Museum’s governance, strategic planning, financial oversight and policy decisions, attend meetings held at least quarterly, and maintain communication with the County. The Board meets on the third Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. The Society also holds four general meetings each year, separate from its regular monthly Board meetings.
Red Brick Common Museum
The Heritage Agricultural Society, operating as Red Brick Common, preserves and promotes the agricultural heritage, cultural roots and history of Stony Plain, Spruce Grove and Parkland County. It provides community and educational programming through its living museum, historic buildings, public art gallery, gardens, exhibits, events and cultural and agricultural activities. If appointed as a director, the County representative would participate in governance, policy direction, financial oversight and community relations. The Board meets on the fourth Thursday of each month, except in July, August and December.
Strategic Plan:
Strategic Driver B: Land, Legacy & Agriculture - We value our rural character, natural landscapes, and agricultural roots and future opportunities.
Goal 6: Strengthen identity by celebrating stories, and historic places, ensuring people of all ages can connect with and contribute to the preservation of the County's heritage.
Desired Outcome: Community members of all ages participate in heritage activities, contribute their own histories, and feel connected to the shared identity of the County.
Participation in these organizations supports Council's Strategic Plan by strengthening regional heritage relationships, supporting agricultural and cultural programming, and connecting residents with the County’s history and rural identity.
Financial Impact:
Cost: Council remuneration, mileage and related expenses associated with attending Board meetings and other approved activities. Membership fees or additional financial commitments, if any, require confirmation with each organization.
Source of Funding: Council - Operating Budget