“The Sheerness Generating Station is one of the newer stations of its kind so there is the possibility of some type of conversion,” said Sewell. “For example, the station could possibly convert to natural gas and still keep operating.”
Changes to the local businesses would affect more than just jobs in the area. Water from the nearby Red Deer River is drawn to the generating station and used as a cooling agent during the process. Because the process does not contaminate the water, it can then be used for recreation and irrigation.
“If the water is no longer needed by the generating station, it would have an impact on tourism, recreation and agriculture in the area,” said Sewell.
The introduction of a carbon levy would also mean significant changes across the province. The provincial government has alluded to the possibility of an additional
tax on gasoline and natural gas in coming years.
“A carbon levy will affect every Albertan,” said Sewell.
Until the official policies are released by the provincial government Sewell said they won’t know how the community will be affected.
“We are trying to be very proactive as a community,” she said. “We need to know what the facts are and what the true impacts will be. From there we will be looking at what the opportunities are and what will help us transition into the next phase.”
The task force is looking into a wide range of possibilities.
“We are looking into what other industries could possibly come out of this,” said Sewell. “If coal is no longer an option what are the possibilities for wind and solar energy for example.”
Although the new environmental policies are sure to change the community, Hanna continues to embrace new opportunities.
The All Aboard initiative in Hanna continues to grow and promote the community’s history as a rail town. A number of different projects have taken root from the central core including the Main Street Rejuvenation project.
The Hanna Roundhouse Society is currently working to restore the 100 year old CN Rail property and turn it into a destination for history buffs. Plans are in the works to create a Great Hall from locomotive bays one through five. A high end theatre, interactive display area and interpretive centre will turn the property back into a destination of interest.
The Hanna and District Historical Society developed a Ghost Walk where history comes to life in the form of local legends. The Hanna/Parker Wedding puts a new
twist to the story of two of their founding families, rail employee Mr. Hanna, who the town is named after and the Parker family, who sold the land to CN where the Roundhouse stands today. Sewell reported that pilots of the historic dinner theatre were well received last year and plans are in place to continue the venture this year.
The economic development agency reported that agriculture in the area has continued to stay strong.
“We are looking at ways to have more value added industries,” said Sewell. “What strategies do we need to look at to diversify?”
By taking the initiative to research possibilities, the Town of Hanna is moving forward.
“We are concerned about the changes coming but we are being proactive and positive,” she said. ■
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