About
Earlier this year Clearwater County and the Village of Caroline completed an Amalgamation Study, supported by a grant from the Alberta Government. This study aims to explore the potential amalgamation of Clearwater County and the Village of Caroline, a significant decision with profound implications for both communities.
The journey toward this potential amalgamation began with the completion of the 2020 Regional Governance Structuring Study FINAL REPORT (by Nichols Applied Management Inc and ISL Engineering). This report assessed the feasibility of combining three municipalities: Clearwater County, the Village of Caroline, and Rocky Mountain House. The report acknowledged that Clearwater County and the Village of Caroline might independently pursue amalgamation should Rocky Mountain House choose not to proceed.
While the idea of amalgamation has been discussed in this region for some time, there remains uncertainty and questions about its impact on the communities, their residents, businesses, and organizations. Public engagement and the dissemination of accurate information have, therefore, become imperative to foster a comprehensive understanding of the potential outcomes.
An essential phase in this process involves engaging the public and stakeholders, aligning with the established Public Participation Policies of Clearwater County and the Village of Caroline. This public participation during the Amalgamation Study sought to measure community acceptance and openness regarding amalgamation.
Following the Amalgamation Study Report presented to both Councils in May of 2023, the Village of Caroline Council authorized negotiations to begin with Clearwater County; and, in September 2023, Clearwater County reciprocated this authorization for immediate amalgamation negotiations, involving the entire Councils.
As of November 2, 2023, these negotiation discussions have formally started through an Amalgamation Committee, which are live streamed and recorded for transparency.