Kneehill Scoop Podcast

In this episode of Kneehill Scoop , we sit down with Kneehill County’s Interim CAO to talk about how local government shows up for residents—day in and day out. We talk about the role of administration, how Council direction becomes everyday service, and why long-term thinking matters. From roads and water to policies, budgets, and planning, the focus stays on consistency, trust, and showing up—ev...

What does it take to keep clean water flowing across a rural County—and manage solid waste for County residents? Utilities Manager John McKiernan joins us for a clear, behind-the-scenes look at Kneehill County’s 13 water systems, how Red Deer River water is treated, and why our rural network operates more like a city grid than a trickle line. John walks us through source-to-tap treatment, reservoi...

Growth in a rural county can be both exciting and uncertain. This episode unpacks how Planning & Development shapes that growth—protecting neighbours, farms, and natural spaces while keeping Kneehill County sustainable. Learn when you need a development permit, why a quick pre-application meeting can save time and money, and the difference between subdivision and rezoning. Barb Hazelton, Manag...

The next municipal election is October 20, 2025—and we’ve got everything you need to know. In episode 8 of the Kneehill Scoop, we sit down with Kneehill County’s Returning Officer, Carolyn Van der Kuil, to talk about who can vote, how to vote, and what to expect on Election Day.  Whether you’re a first-time voter or just need a refresher, this episode breaks down the basics so you can show up info...

Ever wondered who maintains those roadside ditches or keeps our campgrounds pristine? Join Fallon Sherlock, Manager of Parks and Agricultural Services, and Jeff Guidolin, Kneehill County’s Park Supervisor, as they discuss how their small but mighty team manages an astonishing 4,500 kilometres of roadway vegetation control, four unique campgrounds, and several day-use areas, including the crown jew...

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 susta...

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 inc...

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 r...

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 ru...

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 &a...

Reeve King joins the podcast to talk about all things Kneehill County--from Council and governance to current projects, infrastructure and roads, economic development, and the beauty of rural living.  Visit our podcast webpage for links, resources, and more. All news & announcements are current as of January 30, 2025. Thank you for listening!  Follow Kneehill County on social media for current...