The Role of Reeve & Councillors
Smoky Lake County Council is comprised of five (5) Councillors elected for a term of four (4) years.
Each year an Organizational Meeting is held in October where the five members of Council elect a Reeve. This position still serves as Councillor for their Division but has added duties which involves a higher public profile and commitment of time and availability.
Council’s role is to set policies and provide a vision which form the guidelines for the daily operations of the County. Council has only one employee – the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). The CAO is directly responsible for ensuring operations are conducted in a manner that follow and support Council’s policies and vision. Council is not responsible for how the day-to-day operations of the municipality are conducted.
How Council is Governed?
The Province provides the structure for local governments through legislation known as the Municipal Government Act. https://www.qp.alberta.ca
All Councillors will submit to and sign a Councillor Code of Conduct agreement (Bylaw 17-004).
Time Commitment
Council Meetings: Two Council Meetings are scheduled per month. Additional meetings may be called to address emergent matters. Meeting preparation, including reviewing agenda materials, reports, and other related communications, is expected.
Council Committees: Councillors are appointed annually to serve on various Committees at the Organizational Meeting, based on members’ interest in the committee, as well as maintaining a balance and commitment of time. Committee schedules vary; some meet more frequently than others and are scheduled at different times (i.e. during day, during the evening).
Council Orientation and Training: Newly elected officials are now required by the Province to take Elected Official Training upon taking oath of office. This training is coordinated by Lethbridge County and is mandatory for all elected candidates.
Conferences & Conventions: Rural Municipalities of Alberta (RMA) holds two annual conventions in the Spring and Fall. RMA plays a key role in representing municipal interests to the Provincial government. In an election year, the convention will focus on educating new Reeves and Councillors. For this reason, newly elected officials should be prepared to attend this conference. There may be other conferences throughout the year.
Public Appearances: Councillors are expected to represent Lethbridge County at various public events. Due to the position, the Reeve will typically attend more public appearances. These can include award ceremonies, parades, celebrations, etc.
Communication: Councillors are expected to read and respond to communication from ratepayers, stakeholders and the CAO in a timely manner.
Resources for prospective candidates can be found here.
