The municipality is receiving a provincial award for their innovation across Wood Buffalo.

Minister of Municipal Affairs Kaycee Madu announced this year’s recipients for the Minister’s Awards for Municipal Excellence on Wednesday with the RMWB receiving the Innovation Award.

They were given the honour for creating their Ideas Committee in 2017 which allows municipal staff the chance to discuss new ideas, efficiencies, cost savings, and revenue opportunities for the community.

“The recipients of this year’s awards have set an example for what inspiration, hard work and collaboration can achieve,” said Madu, in a release.

“I am proud to recognize the successful efforts of these Alberta municipalities, which have found innovative solutions to the challenges facing their communities.”

Six other communities also received awards including Calgary, Barrhead, and Claresholm.

This is the 18th year these awards have been handed out by the provincial government.

Meanwhile, Councillor Jane Stroud was also presented with the the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association’s Award of Excellence.

This honour recognizes outstanding civic leadership by past and present municipal elected officials who have served more than three years.

“On behalf of Council, I extend sincere congratulations to Councillor Stroud and Ms. Antoniak on receiving these prestigious awards,” said Mayor Don Scott, in a release.

“Councillor Stroud’s strong advocacy and representation serves her constituents and our region well, and the introduction of zero-based budgeting and the Ideas Committee by Ms. Antoniak has contributed to the development of an innovative culture and ensuring fiscal sustainability for the RMWB. These awards recognize their tremendous work and efforts on behalf of the residents of the Municipality.”

Councillor Phil Meagher also received the AUMA Award of Excellence in 2018.