What exactly does "economic development" mean for a rural Alberta community, and how does it impact local businesses, farmers, and residents? The Kneehill Scoop tackles this question head-on in an eye-opening conversation with Wendy Gerbrandt and Jenna Kester from Kneehill County's Economic Development Department.Behind every thriving rural community lies a strategic plan for sustainable growth. As community connectors, Wendy and Jenna explain how they're implementing Kneehill County's three-year economic development strategy, which focuses on leadership capacity, business support, investment readiness, and brand enhancement. Whether you're a business owner looking for support, a resident interested in County initiatives, or simply curious about rural economic development, this episode offers valuable information about the people and programs working to ensure Kneehill County remains a vibrant place to work, play and stay. Contact the Economic Development team at 403-443-5541 to learn how they can help connect you with the resources you need.Thank you for listening! Follow Kneehill County on social media for current news and events:FacebookXInstagram
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Dollars & Sense
Taxes. Assessment. Budget. They’re not the flashiest topics—but they affect everything from the roads you drive on to the services you count on.In this episode, we sit down with Kneehill County’s Property Tax Administrator Rajeana Nyman, and Manager of Financial Planning Marika von Mirbach, to discuss where your tax dollars go, how property assessments work, and the real pressures driving tax increases—from rising costs to mandatory requisitions like education and policing.We’ll unpack how assessment affects your bill, what Council can (and can’t) control, and the tough balancing act of delivering services while keeping increases as low as possible.It’s not just dollars—it’s the sense behind the decisions.Thank you for listening! Follow Kneehill County on social media for current news and events:FacebookXInstagram
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Don’t Panic—Prepare! A Rural Emergency Guide
What would you grab if you had just minutes to leave your home?To kick off Emergency Preparedness Week (May 4–10), emergency management experts Deb Neitz and Dan Marsellus join us to break down the real risks rural communities face—from tornadoes and train derailments to wildfires and hazardous spills—and how to prepare before disaster strikes.This episode dives into the unique challenges of rural response and recovery, offering practical tips for building a 72-hour kit, understanding fire bans, and staying calm under pressure. Because in an emergency, panic leaves things behind—preparation doesn’t.Whether you’re checking on neighbours or creating firebreaks, rural readiness starts with all of us.Learn how to protect what matters most—before it hits the fan.🎧 Listen now & visit our podcast webpage for links, resources, and to submit your questions.All news & announcements are current as of May 1, 2025.Thank you for listening! Follow Kneehill County on social media for current news and events:FacebookXInstagram
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The Dirt on Rural Roads
What really causes washboards on gravel roads? How do crews decide which roads get plowed first after a snowstorm? And just how often do grader blades need replacing?In this episode of the Kneehill Scoop podcast, we dig into the dirt—literally—with Kneehill County’s infrastructure experts Mike Conkin and Mike Ziehr.Tune in as they break down what it takes to maintain over 2,400 kilometres of rural roads, from dust control and chip seal to snow plowing, gravelling, and everything in between.Thank you for listening! Follow Kneehill County on social media for current news and events:FacebookXInstagram
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Law, Order & A Sweet Tooth: A Ride-Along with Kneehill County's Peace Officers
What should you do when you see flashing lights on the side of the road? Why does pet registration matter? And what’s the most essential (and unexpected) part of Officer Hay’s uniform?In this episode of Kneehill Scoop, we ride along with Kneehill County’s Peace Officers to talk about rural road patrols, tuning fork tests, pet registration, and why slowing down could save a life.🎧 Listen now & visit our podcast webpage for links, resources, and to submit your questions.All news & announcements are current as of February 28, 2025.Thank you for listening! Follow Kneehill County on social media for current news and events:FacebookXInstagram
Kneehill County's monthly podcast featuring a different County department in each episode. We’ll dive into current projects, answer frequently asked questions, and share updates that matter to you. Tune in to stay connected, informed, and engaged about what’s happening in Kneehill County.