Councillor Blog December 2025
A Message from the Mayor
Happy Holidays to all the residents of White City and our wonderful neighbours in the White Butte Region!
This time of year always reminds me how fortunate we are to live in such a vibrant, caring, and connected community. White City’s strong spirit of volunteerism and collaboration truly shines, whether through our events, recreation programs, or the everyday kindness shared among neighbours.
On behalf of Town Council, I want to extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributes to our community’s success. I am thankful for the passion and commitment from the folks who support Town events, programs, projects, and services, including volunteers, firefighters, first responders and Town administration. Your dedication creates a true sense of connection and community among residents.
As we wrap up 2025 — our first full year as your Council — we’re proud to celebrate several key accomplishments:
- Enhanced community spaces, with upgrades at Double K Recreation Facility, Emerald Ridge Elementary School Sports Field, and Fernwood Park, plus a new public art installation in Emerald Ridge Park (Squirrel Park) celebrating the spirit of White City.
- Launch of the new Customer Portal, making tax and utility account management easier and more accessible.
- Expanded recreation programs and events for all ages, from familiar favourites like Summer Play Program, Senior Social Club, Movie in the Park, and Chillfest, plus exciting offerings like Yoga in the Park and Mental Health First Aid, made possible through community partnerships.
- Environmental stewardship, including planting 20 new trees along the TransGas Right-of-Way and earning Tree City of the World recognition for the fourth consecutive year through diligent greenspace maintenance.
- Strong collaborative efforts, including a new joint Community Safety Officer agreement with the RM of Edenwold that enhances public safety.
- Public Works excellence, ensuring our Town remains clean, safe, and welcoming through community cleanup services, regular infrastructure maintenance, plus road repairs in Emerald Creek and restoration work on Gregory Avenue West and Kingsmere Pathways.
Looking ahead to 2026, we’re excited to finalize and launch our 2026–2029 Strategic Plan, setting a clear path for thoughtful planning, responsible development and financial sustainability. We will continue to strengthen positive relationships with our neighbours and partners in the White Butte region. Together, we’ll keep building a community that reflects the pride, unity, and energy of our residents.
I wish you and your loved ones a warm, safe and joyful holiday season. From my family to yours: Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
With gratitude and good cheer,
Mayor Mitch Simpson