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COUNTY OF NEWELL
COUNTY OF NEWELL, ALBERTA, CANADA
ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2016
Photograph by S. Kipta
C OUNTY OF N EWELL, A LBERTA, C ANADA
2016 ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT
F OR THE FISCAL PERIOD ENDING D ECEMBER 31, 2016
Produced by the Finance Department in cooperation with all County departments
For information on programs and services, or to obtain a copy of this document, contact:
ADMINISTRATION
Telephone: 403-362-3266
E-Mail: administration@newellmail.ca
The 2016 Annual Financial Report is available online at www.countyofnewell.ab.ca
Photograph by C. Petersen
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 1
T HE C OUNTY OF N EWELL
Vision & Mission 7
County Council 9
Organizational Chart 10
SECTION 2
R EPORT FROM THE M ANAGER OF F INANCE
Introduction 14
GFOA Canadian Award for Financial Reporting 14
2016 Financial Highlights 15
Management Reporting & Control 16
Financial Indicators Discussion & Analysis 17
SECTION 3
C ONSOLIDATED F INANCIAL S TATEMENTS
ManagementÓs Responsibility for the Consolidated Financial Statements 29
Independent AuditorsÓ Report 30
Consolidated Statement of Financial Position 32
Consolidated Statement of Financial Activities 33
Consolidated Statement of Change in Net Financial Assets 34
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows 35
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 36
Schedule of Segmented Disclosures 53
SECTION 4
F INANCIAL & S TATISTICAL S ECTION
Demographics & Other Statistics 56
Expenses by Object 57
Revenues by Source 59
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Photograph by M. Marshall
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SECTION 1
THE COUNTY OF NEWELL
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Photograph by S. Martens
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VISION & MISSION STATEMENT
VISION STATEMENT
To encourage and support sustainable growth and quality of life.
MISSION STATEMENT
The County of Newell
through leadership and policy
provides services, structure and stability.
Photograph by H. Travis
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COUNTY PROFILE
The County of Newell is a rural municipality (5900 sq. km.) located in southeast Alberta in an area
northeast of the City of Lethbridge. The largest urban communities within the County are the City of
Brooks and the Town of Bassano.
The County provides a number of services Î directly or jointly with other municipalities Î to the residents
protection, garbage disposal, planning and development administration, agricultural services, recreation
and parks, family and community support services and bylaw enforcement.
The County has a dynamic and diverse economy driven by three pillars: Agriculture; Oil and Gas; and
Tourism. There are approximately 500 primary agricultural producers in the County, and approximately
1500 non-agricultural business enterprises within the County and its municipalities.
The County of Newell has a thriving
and extensive agricultural base with
ready access to Calgary and its global
transportation linkages. With a younger
work force and average farm receipts
in the range of $100,000 to $249,999,
the region is home to some of the most
The County has one of AlbertaÓs most
roughly 30,000 wells in the County,
which accounts for half of all wells in
Alberta, and 37% of all wells in Canada.
Approximately 170 production and
service companies employ 4,000 to
5,000 people in the energy sector in
the region.
Key tourism anchors include Lake
Newell - one of CanadaÓs largest man-
made lakes, Dinosaur Provincial Park
- a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and
wildlife watching.
Business costs are low. Quality of life
is high Î with a full range of recreation,
health and cultural amenities.
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COUNTY COUNCIL
DIVISION 1 Rolling Hills DIVISION 2 Tilley DIVISION 3 Patricia/Millicent DIVISION 4 Rainier/Scandia/Bow City DIVISION 5 Cassils/Lake Newell Resort
Clarence Amulung Councillor Gordon Simpson Councillor Anne Marie PhilipsenCouncillor Wayne HammergrenCouncillor Tracy Fyfe
(403) 964-2292(403) 377-2596(403) 793-2076
amulungc@newellmail.casimpsong@newellmail.caphilipsena@newellmail.cahammergrenw@newellmail.cafyfet@newellmail.ca
DIVISION 6 Bassano DIVISION 7 Rosemary DIVISION 8 Duchess DIVISION 9 Gem DIVISION 10 Brooks
Councillor Kelly ChristmanCouncillor Ellen UnruhCouncillor Brian de JongReeve Molly DouglassCouncillor Lionel Juss
(403) 641-2274(403) 641-2562
christmank@newellmail.caunruhe@newellmail.cadejongb@newellmail.cadouglassm@newellmail.cajussl@newellmail.ca
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ORGANIZATIONAL CHART
DIRECTOR OF
MANAGER OF
AGRICULTURAL
AGRICULTURAL
REEVE
SERVICES
CHIEF
SERVICES
ADMINISTRATIVE
&
OFFICER
COUNCIL
DIRECTOR OF
INFORMATION
& TECHNOLOGY
MANAGER OF
PLANNING &
EXECUTIVE
DEVELOPMENT
ASSISTANT
MANAGER OF
DIRECTOR OF
DIRECTOR OF
OPERATIONS
MUNICIPAL
CORPORATE
SERVICES
MANAGER OF
SERVICES
CORPORATE
SAFETY
SERVICES
MANAGER OF
ENGINEERING
SERVICES
MANAGER OF
MUNICIPAL
FIRE &
ENFORCEMENT
EMERGENCY
SUPERVISOR
MANAGER OF
SERVICES
FINANCE
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Photograph by M. Slomp
Photograph by M. Marshall
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SECTION 2
REPORT FROM THE
MANAGER OF FINANCE
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REPORT FROM THE MANAGER OF FINANCE
I NTRODUCTION
activities and available resources. It also provides an opportunity to analyze and comment on the
GFOA C ANADIAN A WARD FOR F INANCIAL R EPORTING
In order to be awarded a Canadian Award for Financial Reporting, a government unit must publish an
standards. Such reports should go beyond the minimum requirements of generally accepted accounting
principles and demonstrate an effort to clearly
communicate the municipal governmentÓs
and address user needs.
A Canadian Award for Financial Reporting is
valid for a period of one year only. We believe
our current report continues to conform to
the Canadian Award for Financial Reporting
program requirements, and we are submitting
it to GFOA.
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2016 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
C ONSOLIDATED S TATEMENT OF F INANCIAL P OSITION
consist primarily of tangible capital assets and inventory for consumption, increased by $5.7 million.
of $13.5 million for 2016.
C ONSOLIDATED S TATEMENT OF F INANCIAL A CTIVITIES
Revenues were $1.5 million higher than budgeted or 104.5% of budgeted revenues. This is largely due
to recognition of local improvement taxes and higher than expected returns on investments.
under budget due to lower than expected overtime costs in the Municipal Services and Agricultural
Services departments as well as the elimination of two full-time positions in the Economic Development
department. Contracted services were under budget primarily due to lower than expected repairs
and maintenance on roads and utility systems as well as uncompleted water pond decommissioning
projects which have been carried forward for completion in 2017. Materials, goods, supplies and utilities
were under budget primarily due to lower than expected fuel costs and less need for road maintenance
materials such as gravel, sand, and salt.
The County received $904 thousand of contributed assets during the year, including the Tilley Fire
Hall ($650 thousand), playground equipment ($60 thousand), and cash from the Tilley Fire Association
($194 thousand).
The County ended the year with an Annual Surplus of $13.5 million.
C ONSOLIDATED S TATEMENT OF C HANGE IN N ET F INANCIAL A SSETS
end of the year. This indicates the County can afford to settle its liabilities.
C ONSOLIDATED S TATEMENT OF C ASH F LOWS
Cash and cash equivalents decreased by $13.6 million in 2016. Operations provided cash of
investing activities and $5.7 million was used to repay long term debt.
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REPORT FROM THE MANAGER OF FINANCE
M ANAGEMENT R EPORTING & C ONTROL
process, accounting procedures, external audit, and various policies which are described below.
Budget Process
On an annual basis, Council considers a proposed operating budget and a ten-year capital forecast and
adopts the operating and capital budgets for the coming year. The budget process involves council,
department heads, staff and the public. Council approves the budget taking into account current
economic conditions, provincial policy changes and service needs within the County. It should be noted
After the budget is adopted by Council, expenditures are controlled against budget by formal policies
Accounting Procedures
The CountyÓs accounting system and related internal controls are designed to provide reasonable
loss from unauthorized use or disposition. The CountyÓs Purchasing and Budget Variance policies
ensure that controls and reporting requirements are appropriate. Generally accepted accounting
principles for local governments are adhered to.
External Audit
Council is required by the Municipal Government Act to engage independent auditors to express an
records and they meet periodically with staff to discuss matters arising from the audit or from new
policies and procedures. The auditors also provide the County with a management letter providing
comments on internal controls.
Purchasing Policy
The County ensures that consistent procedures are followed for purchases through Purchasing Policy
2011-PAD-051 which sets expenditure limits for the County. The policy ensures that items purchased
have been approved through the budget process or by separate resolution of Council.
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REPORT FROM THE MANAGER OF FINANCE
Investment Policy
The CountyÓs excess funds are invested in accordance with Investment Policy 2014-PAD-032. This
policy has as its objectives the preservation of capital, maintenance of liquidity and the realization of
a competitive rate of return. Municipal investments are governed by restrictive legislation under the
Municipal Government Act. The CountyÓs investment policy meets all of these requirements.
Restricted Surplus Policy
F INANCIAL I NDICATORS D ISCUSSION & A NALYSIS
The 2016 Consolidated Financial Statements are prepared in compliance with Public Sector Accounting
by applying PSAB issued Statement of Recommended Practices (SORP) 4: Indicators of Financial
the County in maintaining the programs and services it currently provides, as well as the policy and
This SORP is not part of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and there is no requirement
for governments to implement its recommendations. Although there are numerous indicators to assess
and vulnerability
well as a selection of indicators related to each.
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REPORT FROM THE MANAGER OF FINANCE
SUSTAINABILITY
Sustainability measures the ability of the County to maintain its existing programs and services,
The following indicators have been selected to assess sustainability.
This annual result indicates the extent to which the CountyÓs revenue is more than its expenses during
over time, expenses are less than revenues. In essence, this requires current taxpayers to fully meet
the cost of services.
replacement and debt repayments.
On an annual basis 50% of the annual amortization charge for facilities and infrastructure, and 100%
of the annual amortization charge for vehicles, machinery and equipment is raised from municipal tax
revenues and transferred to restricted surplus funds to support future asset replacement. It is important
of asset replacement in the future. Taking into account future replacement costs in determining the
developing an asset management plan that will assist in determining appropriate annual surplus levels.
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REPORT FROM THE MANAGER OF FINANCE
Financial Assets-to-Liabilities
This indicator shows the extent to which the CountyÓs future revenues will be required to pay for past
revenues or increasing debt to pay for past decisions.
years as annual principal payments on debt decrease the CountyÓs liability balance.
Photograph by M. Marshall
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REPORT FROM THE MANAGER OF FINANCE
Taxes Receivable as a % of Tax Levies
Every year, a percentage of property owners are unable to pay property taxes for a variety of reasons.
If this percentage increases over time, it may indicate an overall decline in the CountyÓs economic
health. Additionally, as uncollected property taxes rise, liquidity decreases.
Total Tax Levy (includes requisitions) 38,571,559 40,464,388 41,536,602 42,780,809 43,457,273
Taxes Receivable (before allowance)
Current 411,923 588,708 600,093 462,904 599,967
Arrears 498,988 627,660 770,179 695,806 794,415
910,911 1,216,368 1,370,272 1,158,710 1,394,382
Taxes Receivable as a %
of the Current Levy
Current 1.07%1.45%1.44%1.08%1.38%
Arrears1.29%1.55%1.85%1.63%1.83%
Taxes Collected - Current Year98.93%98.55%98.56%98.92%98.62%
Taxable Assessment3,990,255,860 4,209,007,890 4,324,192,910 4,413,249,420 4,237,510,910
Municipal Tax Rates
Residential3.33%3.33%3.33%3.39%3.39%
Farmland3.33%3.33%3.33%3.39%3.58%
Non-residential6.71%6.71%6.71%6.77%7.40%
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REPORT FROM THE MANAGER OF FINANCE
FLEXIBILITY
Flexibility is the degree to which the County can change its debt burden or raise taxes to respond to
to changing circumstances.
Debt Servicing Costs-to-Revenues
The ratio of debt servicing costs-to-revenues indicates the amount of current revenue that is required to
service past borrowing decisions and, as a result, is not available for programs and services.
20122013201420152016
Debt servicing costs 2,942,755 6,336,321 6,336,321
Revenues 35,375,534 39,265,145 36,217,193
Ratio 9.05%14.23%16.14%17.50%
servicing costs-to-revenues. Decreases in special levies and government transfers for operating
revenues in 2016 drove the increase in this ratio. This ratio is expected to remain relatively consistent
until 2019 when it is expected to begin decreasing as debentures for the rural water project are repaid.
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REPORT FROM THE MANAGER OF FINANCE
Debt Limits and Debt Payments
Alberta Regulation 255/00. The maximum allowable debt the County could hold within this regulation
of this maximum allowable amount at the end of 2016. This leaves the County with approximately
of borrowing room.
20122013201420152016
Debt limit
Maximum allowable debt 54,325,790
Total debt21,594,161 30,054,422 31,604,643 25,952,347
Percentage used44.3%44.0%55.0%53.7%
Maximum Allowable Annual Debt Payment
Maximum allowable annual debt payment 9,111,471
Annual payments on existing debt 2,942,755 6,336,321 6,336,321
Percentage used36.2%34.3%56.9%64.5%70.0%
Debt Per Capita 3,401 4,210 3,449
projects as more of the debt limit has been used. Debt per capita is expected to decrease steadily
moving forward. The last of the debentures supporting the rural water project is scheduled to be repaid
in full by 2023.
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REPORT FROM THE MANAGER OF FINANCE
R ESTRICTED S URPLUS
Restricted Surplus funds are included as part of the CountyÓs accumulated surplus and details of these
Stabilize tax rates in the face of variable and
uncontrollable factors (consumption, interest
rates, unemployment rates, changes in subsidies)
requirements without permanently impacting the
tax and utility rates
Make provisions for replacement or acquisitions
of assets and infrastructure that are currently
being consumed and amortized
Avoid spikes in funding requirements of the
capital plan by reducing the reliance on long-term
debt borrowings
Provide for future liabilities incurred in the current year but paid for in the future
requirements and in permitting the County to temporarily fund capital projects internally, allowing it time
to access debt markets and take advantage of favourable conditions. The level of restricted surplus
funds required will vary for a number of reasons including:
Services provided by the County
Economic conditions and projections
Internal debt and restricted surplus policies
surplus funds listed below. The County is in compliance with this policy as at December 31, 2016.
Balance at Minimum Balance % of minimum % of accumulated
Dec. 31, 2016Required balance heldamortization funded
Fund description
Infrastructure 52%
Vehicles, Machinery & Equipment 7,532,533111%111%
Facilities 1,111,343242%121%
Stabilization 5,762,969 3,141,371n/a
Fire Apparatus 3,224,453 250,0001290%n/a
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REPORT FROM THE MANAGER OF FINANCE
Tangible Capital Assets
The CountyÓs tangible capital assets (TCA) increased by a net $5,994,027 in 2016 which includes new
with a net book value of $223,307.
¤ $3,330,310 Î Rural Water System
¤ $3,755,594 Î Tilley Infrastructure Upgrades
¤ $3,616,951 Î Road Drainage, Paving & Reconstruction
¤ $650,905 Î Tilley Fire Hall
¤ $110,100 Î Pathway to Centennial Regional Arena
Net Book Value of Tangible Capital Assets-to-Cost of Tangible Capital Assets
Net book value of TCA compared to total cost of TCA measures the extent to which the estimated useful
lives of the CountyÓs tangible capital assets are available to provide its products and services.
provide future services.
20122013201420152016
NBV OF TCA 179,395,312
COST OF TCA 202,714,903 254,644,553 279,449,067 291,174,700
NBV OF TCA-TO-COST OF TCA 77.29%79.02%79.07%77.94%
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REPORT FROM THE MANAGER OF FINANCE
VULNERABILITY
Vulnerability is the degree to which the
County becomes dependent on, and therefore
vulnerable to, sources of funding outside its
own-source revenue is, the more it relies on
Government Transfers-to-Total Revenue
This indicator demonstrates the level of
government transfers compared to total
revenues. The higher the percentage, the
more reliance the County puts on receipt of
funds from other levels of government. These
transfers are dependent on policy decisions
which are outside the control of the County.
transfers. It is important to note that the majority of these government transfers have been used for
part on grant funding from other levels of government.
20122013201420152016
Government transfers for capital 9,710,706 16,044,107
Government transfers for operating 1,073,512 933,439
Total transfers 11,005,520 7,414,210 16,977,546 4,504,557
Total revenue 49,326,774 57,142,957 40,990,175
Government transfers-to-total revenue 25.6%16.1%24.1%29.7%11.0%
Transfers for capital-to-total transfers 91.0%94.5%
Transfers for operating-to-total transfers 12.0%9.0%5.5%14.1%
its reliance on government transfers for operating to support its products and services.
Respectfully Submitted,
Matt Fenske, CA
Manager of Finance
April 6, 2017
Photograph by L. Dewar
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SECTION 3
CONSOLIDATED
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
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Photograph by C. Takeda
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CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
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CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
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CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Photograph by M. Marshall
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CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COUNTY OF NEWELL
Consolidated Statement of Financial Position
December 31, 2016, with comparative information for 2015
2016 2015
Financial assets:
Cash and cash equivalents (note 2) $ $
Taxes and grants in place of taxes receivable (note 3) 1,
Trade and other receivables (note 4) 23,127,515
Land held for resale 31,491
Investments (note 5) 46,452,097 42,262,136
Notes receivable (note 6) 1,773,637 2,995,066
Other financial assets 5
90,941,403
Financial liabilities:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 2,201,452
Employee benefit obligations (note ) 405,626
Unearned revenue (note 9)
Long-term debt - operating (note 10) 1,537,923
Long-term debt - capital (note 11) 24,414,424 29,357,355
Provision for landfill closure and post-closure costs (note 12) 313,533 317,901
Provision for gravel pit closure and post-closure costs (note 12) 335,341 350,594
Deposit liabilities (note 2) 243,991
30,727,071 36,634,539
Net financial assets 60,214,332 52,365,506
Non-financial assets:
Prepaid expenses 106,111
Tangible Capital Assets (note 7)
Inventory for consumption 1,390,753 1,719,459
Contingent liabilities (note 20)
Accumulated surplus (note 13) $ $
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
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CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COUNTY OF NEWELL
Consolidated Statement of Financial Activities
Year ended December 31, 2016, with comparative information for 2015
Budget 2016 2015
Revenues:
Net municipal property taxes (note 14) $ 29, $ 29,792,314 $
Special levies 442,963 1,
User fees and sale of goods 2,109,165
Government transfers (note 15) 579,624 933,439
Penalties and cost of taxes 131,775
Investment income 1,252,509 1,642,224 1,592,290
Licenses and permits 151,600 153,032
Other revenue
Gain (loss) on disposal of tangible
capital assets - )
34,670,463 36,217,193 39,265,145
Expenses (note 16):
Legislative 504,400 477,619
Administration 4,30 4,130,921
Corporate safety services 296,975
Fire and by-law enforcement 1,457,435 1,297,464 1,452,592
Disaster and emergency services 219,436
Roads, streets, walks and lighting 11,790,754 1
Airport 129,352 120,979 123,604
Water and waste water 2,691,633 2, 2,123,647
Waste management 309,420 313,249 306,155
Family and community support 65,466 64,467 64,466
Municipal planning 560,731 495,112 526,626
Community and agricultural services 1,600,315
Subdivision land and development 336,597 173,915 363,370
Recreation and parks
Culture and library 154,470 154,470 152,759
Other 3,677,603 3,093,711
27,467,154 26,
Annual surplus
before the undernoted 6,166,967 750,039 12,420,299
Other:
Contributed assets - 904,423 13,407
Insurance proceeds - -
Government transfers (note 15) 3, 16,044,107
Other - - 743,615
Annual surplus 9,749,309 13,523,021
Accumulated surplus, beginning of year
Accumulated surplus, end of year $ $ $275
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
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CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COUNTY OF NEWELL
Consolidated Statement of Change in Net Financial Assets
December 31, 2016, with comparative information for 2015
Budget 2016 2015
Annual surplus $ 9,749,309 $ 13,523,021 $
Acquisition of tangible capital assets (12,177,100) (11,733,660)
Contributed tangible capital assets - (710,756) (13,407)
Proceeds on disposal of tangible capital assets - 70,432
Amortization of tangible capital assets 5,744,761
(Gain) loss on disposal of tangible capital assets -
7,
Use (acquisition) of inventories for consumption - (414,619)
Use (acquisition) of prepaid expenses - (4)
Change in net financial assets 26
Net financial assets, beginning of year 52,365,506 52,365,506
Net financial assets, end of year $ $ 60,214,332 $ 52,365,506
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
Photograph by C. Shaffer
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CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COUNTY OF NEWELL
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
Year ended December 31, 2016, with comparative information for 2015
2016 2015
Cash provided by (used in):
Operations:
Annual surplus $ 13,523,021 $
Items not involving cash:
Amortization 5,744,761
Contributed assets (710,756) (13,407)
(Gain) loss on disposal of tangible capital assets
Change in non-cash financial assets and liabilities:
Taxes and grants in place of taxes receivable (235,672) 211,561
Trade and other receivables 2,939,662 (12,763,023)
Land held for resale 390
Other financial assets (5) (1,655)
Prepaid expenses (4)
Inventory for consumption (414,619)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (1,327,345) (236,131)
Employee benefit obligations 1,123,213 (10,336)
Unearned revenue 13,701 (1,259,477)
Landfill closure and post-closure costs (4,369) (12,565)
Gravel pit closure and post-closure costs (15,254)
22,006,375 20,795,716
Capital activities:
Proceeds on disposal of tangible capital assets 70,432
Purchase of tangible capital assets (11,733,660)
() (24,722,017)
Investing activities:
Decrease (increase) in temporary investments (15,300,412) 7,956,675
Increase in investments () (6,423,046)
Payments received on notes receivable 1,221,429
2,363,010
Financing activities:
Repayment of long-term debt:
- operating (709,366)
- capital (4,942,931) (3,777,394)
Proceeds from debt acquired - 6,000,000
Increase (decrease) in deposit liabilities (45,117) 10,299
(5,697,414) 1,560,520
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents (13,623,211) (2,771)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year 16,
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year (note 2) $ 2,995,636 $
Cash and cash equivalents is comprised of:
Cash and temporary investments $ $
Less investments with original maturities
greater than 90 days 412)
$ 2,995,636 $
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
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CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COUNTY OF NEWELL
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Year ended December 31, 2016
1. Significant accounting policies:
The consolidated financial statements of the County of Newell (the ÐCountyÑ) are the
representations of management prepared in accordance with Canadian Public Sector accounting
standards. Significant aspects of the accounting policies adopted by the County are as follows:
(a) Cash and cash equivalents:
Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand and short-term deposits which are highly
liquid with original maturities of less than three months from the date of acquisition.
(b) Reporting entity:
The consolidated financial statements reflect the assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses,
changes in net financial assets and cash flows of the County, which comprises of all the
organizations that are owned or controlled by the County and are, therefore accountable to
the Council for the administration of their financial affairs and resources.
All significant inter-department transactions and balances are eliminated on consolidation.
Taxes levied also include requisitions for educational, health care, social and other external
organizations that are not part of the County.
The statements exclude trust assets that are administered for the benefit of external parties.
(c) Basis of accounting:
The financial statements are prepared using the accrual basis of accounting. The accrual
basis of accounting records revenue as it is earned and measurable. Expenses are
recognized as they are incurred and measurable based upon receipt of goods or services
and/or the legal obligation to pay.
Funds from external parties and earnings thereon restricted by agreement or legislation are
accounted for as deferred revenue until used for the purpose specified.
(d) Investments:
Investments are recorded at cost. Where there has been a loss in value of an investment
other than a temporary decline, the investment is written down to reflect the loss.
(e) Requisition over-levy and under-levy:
Over-levies and under-levies arise from the difference between the actual property tax levy
made to cover each requisition and the actual amount requisitioned.
If the actual levy exceeds the requisition, the over-levy is accrued as a liability and property
tax revenue is reduced. Where the actual levy is less than the requisition amount, the under-
levy is accrued as a receivable and as property tax revenue.
Requisition tax rates in the subsequent year are adjusted for any over-levies for the prior year.
P AGE 36C OUNTY OF N EWELL - 2016 A NNUAL F INANCIAL R EPORT
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COUNTY OF NEWELL
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Year ended December 31, 2016
1. Significant accounting policies (continued):
(f) Inventories:
Land held for resale is recorded at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Cost includes
costs for land acquisition and improvements required to prepare the land for servicing such as
clearing, stripping, and leveling charges. Related development costs incurred to provide
infrastructure such as water and waste water services, roads, sidewalks and street lighting
are recorded as capital assets under their respective function.
(g) Landfill and gravel pit closure and post-closure costs:
Pursuant to the Alberta Environment Protection and Enhancement Act, the County is required
to fund the closure of its landfill site and provide for post-closure care. Landfill closure and
post-closure activities include the final clay cover, landscaping, as well as surface and ground
water monitoring, leachate control and visual inspection. The requirement is being provided
for over the estimated remaining life of the landfill site based on usage.
The County is required to fund the closure of its gravel pits. Reclamation of these sites
includes providing final cover and landscaping. The requirement is being provided for on an
estimate of expected cost on size of sites.
(h) Government transfers:
Government transfers are recognized in the financial statements as revenues in the period
that the events giving rise to the transfer occurred, providing the transfers are authorized, all
eligibility criteria have been met by the County, and reasonable estimates of the amounts can
be made.
(i) Non-financial assets:
Non-financial assets are not available to discharge existing liabilities and are held for use in
the provision of services. They have useful lives extending beyond the current year and are
not intended for sale in the normal course of operations.
(i) Tangible capital assets:
Tangible capital assets are recorded at cost which includes all amounts that are directly
attributable to acquisition, construction, development or betterment of the asset. The cost,
less residual value, of the tangible capital assets is amortized on a straight-line basis over
the estimated useful life as follows:
Years
Land Improvements 15-45
Buildings 25-70
Engineered structures 15-75
Machinery and equipment 5-40
Vehicles 5-14
Assets under construction are not amortized until the asset is available for productive use.
C OUNTY OF N EWELL - 2016 A NNUAL F INANCIAL R EPORT
P AGE 37
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COUNTY OF NEWELL
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Year ended December 31, 2016
1. Significant accounting policies (continued):
(i) Non-financial assets (continued):
(ii) Contributions of tangible capital assets:
Tangible capital assets received as contributions are recorded at fair value at the date of
receipt and recorded as revenue.
(iii) Inventories
Inventories of materials and supplies held for consumption are recorded at the lower of
cost and replacement cost with cost determined by the average cost method.
(iv) Cultural and historical tangible capital assets:
Works of art for display are not recorded as tangible capital assets but are disclosed.
(j) Tax Revenue:
Tax revenue results from non-exchange transactions that are paid to governments in
accordance with the laws and regulations established to provide revenue to the government
for public services. The revenue is recognized when the tax has been authorized and the
taxable event has occurred.
(k) Pension expenses:
The County participates in a multi-employer defined benefit pension plan, wherein
contributions for current and past service pension benefits are recorded as expenses in the
year in which they become due.
(l) Use of estimates:
The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with Canadian public sector
accounting standards requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect
the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and
liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and
expenses during the reporting period. Significant areas requiring the use of management
estimates relate to the determination of allowance for doubtful accounts, provision for closure
and post-closure care, employee benefit obligations and the useful life of tangible capital
assets.
Contributions of tangible capital assets are recorded at estimated fair value at the date of
receipt.
Actual results could differ from those estimates.
P AGE 38C OUNTY OF N EWELL - 2016 A NNUAL F INANCIAL R EPORT
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COUNTY OF NEWELL
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Year ended December 31, 2016
1. Significant accounting policies (continued):
(m) Contaminated sites:
Contaminated sites are a result of contamination being introduced into air, soil, water or
sediment of a chemical, organic or radioactive or live organism that exceeds an
environmental standard. The liability is recorded net of any expected recoveries. A liability for
remediation of a contaminated site is recognized when a site is not in productive use and is
managementÓs estimate of the cost of post-remediation including operation, maintenance and
monitoring. No contaminated sites have been identified.
2. Cash and cash equivalents:
2016 2015
Cash $ 2,995,636 $
Temporary investments 196,412
$ 2 $
Included in cash are amounts aggregating $ (2015 - $243,991) not available for current
use.
2016 2015
Tax sale surplus $ 12,769 $ 12,661
Public reserve 231,330
$ $ 243,991
Temporary investments consist of GICÓs that have an average interest rate of % (2015 Î
2.05%) and mature in periods ranging from June, 2017 to December, 2017.
C OUNTY OF N EWELL - 2016 A NNUAL F INANCIAL R EPORT
P AGE 39
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COUNTY OF NEWELL
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Year ended December 31, 2016
3. Taxes and grants in place of taxes receivable:
2016 2015
Current $ 599,967 $ 462,904
Arrears 794,415 695,06
1,
Allowance for uncollectible taxes (100,000) (100,000)
$ 1, $
4. Trade and other receivables:
2016 2015
Grants $ 12,990,945 $ 16,144,745
Local improvement taxes 6,132,749
Other 1,064,159
$ $ 23,127,515
Local improvement taxes carry annual interest rates ranging from 2.64% - 7.125% and are due
between 2017 Î 2041.
5. Investments:
2016 2015
Fixed income securities $ $ 42,177,933
Credit Union Common shares 5 5
Newell Regional Services Corporation:
Common shares 20 20
Preferred shares
$ 46,452,097 $ 42,262,136
Fixed income securities yield interest from 1.61% to 4.95% and mature in periods 2017 through
2027. The investments have an average expected yield of 2.50% and an aggregate market value
of $46,757,445 (2015 - $).
P AGE 40C OUNTY OF N EWELL - 2016 A NNUAL F INANCIAL R EPORT
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COUNTY OF NEWELL
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Year ended December 31, 2016
6. Notes receivable:
2016 2015
Newell Foundation, repayable in annual installments of
$ including int $ 1,537,922 $
Tilley and District Fire Association - 433,492
Newell Regional Services Corporation, non-interest bearing,
maturing in 2017 235,715
$ 1,773,637 $ 2,995,066
7. Tangible capital assets:
Cost 2015 Additions Disposals 2016
Land $ 5,353, $ -- $ -- $ 5,353,
Land improvements (7,976) 2,037,162
Buildings 662,977 -- 19,160,729
Engineered structures () 210,653,643
Machinery and equipment (140,169) 11,
Vehicles (75,133) 5,095,143
Work in progress, net
of transfers 50,126,103 ()
Total $ 279,449,067 $ 12,444,416 $ () $291,174,700
Accumulated Amortization
amortization 2015 Disposals expense 2016
Land improvements $ 701,541 $ -- $ 131,453 $
Buildings -- 317,605 1,
Engineered structures 50,417,164 ) 54,467,144
Machinery and equipment 4,265,416 (100,303) 1,000,320 5,165,433
Vehicles 2,034,550 (66,735) 2,367,101
Total $ $ (495,476) $ $ 64,222,362
C OUNTY OF N EWELL - 2016 A NNUAL F INANCIAL R EPORT
P AGE 41
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COUNTY OF NEWELL
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Year ended December 31, 2016
7. Tangible capital assets (continued):
Net book value 2016 2015
Land $ 5, $
Land improvements 1, 1,164,111
Buildings 17,771,039 17,425,667
Engineered structures 1
Machinery and equipment 6,720,104 7,063,152
Vehicles 2, 2,953,659
Work in progress 50,126,103
Total $ $
Contributed tangible capital assets are recognized at fair value at the date of contribution. The
value of contributed assets received during the year is $710,756 (2015 Î $13,407) and has been
included in buildings and land improvements.
. Employee benefit obligations:
Vacation
The vacation liability is comprised of the vacation that employees are deferring to future years.
Employees have either earned the benefits (and are vested) or are entitled to these benefits within
the next budgetary year.
Sick
The sick liability is comprised of the sick pay that employees are deferring to future years.
Employees have either earned the benefits (and are vested) or are entitled to them within the next
budgetary year.
9. Unearned Revenue:
Recognized as
Description 2015 Received revenue 2016
Street Improvement Grant $ 173,520 -- -- $ 173,520
Other 9,464 23,165 (9,464) 23,165
Total $ $ 23,165 $ (9,464) $
P AGE 42C OUNTY OF N EWELL - 2016 A NNUAL F INANCIAL R EPORT
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COUNTY OF NEWELL
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Year ended December 31, 2016
10. Long-term debt Î operating:
2016 2015
Debenture supported with notes receivable $ 1,537,923 $
Principal and interest repayments are due as follows:
Principal Interest Total
2017 $ $ $
43,425
$ 1,537,923 $ $ 1,665,934
Debenture debt is repayable to Alberta Capital Finance Authority and bears interest at 5.5% per
annum, before Provincial subsidy, and matures in . Debenture debt is issued on the credit
and security of the County of Newell at large.
Interest on long-term debt amounted to $ (2015 Î $151,337).
The CountyÓs total interest paid in 2016 was $123,601 (2015 - $).
11. Long-term debt Î capital:
2016 2015
Tax supported debentures $ 24,414,424 $ 29,357,355
Principal and interest repayments are due as follows:
Principal Interest Total
2017 $ 5,034,630 $ $ 5,503,355
5,121,407 375,165 5,496,572
2019 5,496,572
2020 3,633,522 190,142
2021
Thereafter 2,944,606 195,626 3,140,232
$ 24,414,424 $ 1,632,230 $ 26,046,654
C OUNTY OF N EWELL - 2016 A NNUAL F INANCIAL R EPORT
P AGE 43
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COUNTY OF NEWELL
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Year ended December 31, 2016
11. Long-term debt Î capital (continued):
Debenture debt is repayable to Alberta Capital Finance Authority and bears interest at rates
ranging from 1.124% to 7.125% per annum, before Provincial subsidy, and matures in periods
201 through 2034. The average annual interest rate is 2.014% for 2016 (2015 Î %). For
11% to a maximum annual rate of 12.5%, depending on the date borrowed. Debenture debt is
issued on the credit and security of the County of Newell at large.
Interest on long-term debt amounted to $556,235 (2015 - $574,770).
The CountyÓs total interest paid in 2016 was $560,422 (2015 - $).
12. Provision for landfill and gravel pit closure and post-closure costs:
Alberta environmental law requires closure and post-closure care of landfill sites, which includes
final covering and landscaping, pumping of ground water and leachates from the site, and on-
going environmental monitoring, site inspections and maintenance.
The accrued liability for the remaining post-closure costs of the CountyÓs landfill and closure and
post-closure costs for the CountyÓs gravel pit s are based on an estimate of future discounted
costs. All landfill sites are closed. One site is expected to be reclaimed in 2017, while post-closure
costs associated on another are
The estimated closure and post-closure costs for the landfill are $313,533 and $335,341 for the
gravel pits, all of which have been accrued in the financial statements.
The County has not designated assets for settling closure and post-closure liabilities.
Photograph by R. Redelback
P AGE 44C OUNTY OF N EWELL - 2016 A NNUAL F INANCIAL R EPORT
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COUNTY OF NEWELL
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Year ended December 31, 2016
13. Accumulated surplus:
Equity in
tangible
Unrestricted capital Restricted Total Total
net assets assets (1) Surplus (2) 2016 2015
Beginning
balance $ $192,025,553 $ $ $
Annual surplus 13,523,021 -- -- 13,523,021
Transfers to
restricted surplus () -- -- --
Transfers from
restricted surplus 10,345,331 -- (10,345,331) -- --
Amortization of
tangible capital
assets () -- -- --
Net book value
of assets disposed 223,307 (223,307) -- -- --
Capital assets
internally
funded (11,309,063) 11,309,063 -- -- --
Capital assets
debt funded (424,597) 424,597 -- -- --
Contributed assets (710,756) 710,756 -- -- --
Unexpended debt 424,597 (424,597) -- -- --
Debt paid - capital (4,942,931) 4,942,931 -- -- --
Total $ 1,505,734 $202,537,914 $ $ $
(1) Equity in tangible capital assets:
2016 2015
Tangible capital assets (note 7) $ 291,174,700 $ 279,449,067
Accumulated amortization (note 7) (64,222,362) ()
Long-term debt Î capital (note 11) (24,414,424) (29,357,355)
Unexpended debt proceeds - 424,597
$ 202,537,914 $ 192,025,553
C OUNTY OF N EWELL - 2016 A NNUAL F INANCIAL R EPORT
P AGE 45
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COUNTY OF NEWELL
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Year ended December 31, 2016
13. Accumulated surplus (continued):
(2) Restricted surplus is comprised of funds internally restricted as follows:
2016 2015
Paving $ $ 7,260,029
Infrastructure 19,921,173
Future Projects
Vehicles, Machinery & Equipment 7,244,960
Regional Enhancement 3,390,161 3,390,161
Stabilization 5,762,969
Facilities 2,464,260
Fire Apparatus 3,224,453
Tilley 50,662
Unexpended Budget Appropriation 203,176
$ $
14. Net municipal property taxes:
Budget 2016 2015
Taxation:
Real property taxes $ 15,567,293 $ $
Linear property taxes 27, 27, 27,461,535
Government grants in place of property
taxes
43,267,310 43,457,274
Requisitions:
Alberta School Foundation Fund 12,529,765 12,754,794 12,529,765
Newell Foundation 910,166 910,166
13,439,931 13,664,960
Net municipal property taxes $ 29, $ 29,792,314 $
P AGE 46C OUNTY OF N EWELL - 2016 A NNUAL F INANCIAL R EPORT
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COUNTY OF NEWELL
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Year ended December 31, 2016
15. Government transfers:
Budget 2016 2015
Transfers for operating:
Provincial government $ $ $ 535,630
Local government 363,237
579,624 933,439
Transfers for capital:
Provincial government 3,757,309 16,044,107
Local government - 111,250 -
16,044,107
$ 4,161,966 $ 4,504,557 $ 16,977,546
16. Expenses by object:
Budget 2016 2015
Salaries, wages and benefits $ $ 7,430,179 $ 7,451,402
Contracted and general services 3,725,751 4,040,966
Materials, goods, supplies and utilities 4,954,203 3,9 3,966,506
Transfers to organizations 4,103,102 4,264,050
Bank charges and short-term interest 4,500 5,370 4,246
Interest on long-term debt 6 735,351
Other expenditures 20,000
Amortization 5,744,761
$ $ 27,467,154 $
C OUNTY OF N EWELL - 2016 A NNUAL F INANCIAL R EPORT
P AGE 47
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COUNTY OF NEWELL
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Year ended December 31, 2016
17. Salary and benefits disclosure:
Disclosure of salaries and benefits for elected municipal officials and the chief administrative
officer as required by provincial regulation is as follows:
2016 2015
Benefits &
Salary (1) Allowances (2) Total Total
Council:
Division 1 $ 30,076 $ 5,071 $ 35,147 $ 30,275
Division 2 5,060 36,135
Division 3 35,470 36,624
Division 4 24,936 2,561 27,497 32,337
Division 5 33,114 33,076
Division 6 27,144 4,943 35,510
Division 7 5,003 33,522 34,127
26,707 1,393 33,213
Division 9 2,409 51,427 54,012
Division 10 27,079 4,940 32,019 32,126
$ 10 $ 41,450 $ 343,260 $ 357,435
Chief Administrative Officer $ 216,307 $ 49,294 $ 265,601 $
1) Salary includes regular base pay, bonuses, overtime, lump sum payments, gross honoraria
and any other direct cash remuneration.
2) Benefits and allowances include the employerÓs share of all employee benefits and
contributions or payments made on behalf of employees including pension, health care,
dental coverage, vision coverage, group life insurance, accidental disability and
dismemberment insurance, long and short-term disability plans, professional memberships
and tuition.
Benefits and allowances figures also include the employerÓs share of the costs of additional
taxable benefits including special leave with pay, financial planning services, retirement
planning services, concessionary loans, travel allowances, car allowances, and club
memberships, if applicable.
P AGE 48C OUNTY OF N EWELL - 2016 A NNUAL F INANCIAL R EPORT
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COUNTY OF NEWELL
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Year ended December 31, 2016
. Debt limits:
Section 276(2) of the Municipal Government Act requires that debt and debt limits as defined by
Alberta Regulation 255/00 for the County be disclosed as follows:
2016 2015
Total debt limit $ 54,325,790 $
Total debt (25,952,347) (31,604,643)
$ 2 $ 27,293,075
2016 2015
Debt servicing limit $ 9, $ 9,
Debt servicing (6,336,321) (6,336,321)
$ 2,717,977 $ 3,479,965
The debt limit is calculated at 1.5 times revenue of the County (as defined in Alberta Regulation
255/00) and the debt service limit is calculated at 0.25 times such revenue. Incurring debt beyond
these limitations requires approval by the Minister of Municipal Affairs. These thresholds are
guidelines used by Alberta Municipal Affairs to identify municipalities which could be at financial
risk if further debt is acquired. The calculation taken alone does not represent the financial
stability of the County. Rather, the financial statements must be interpreted as a whole.
19. Local authorities pension plan:
The County participates in a multi-employer defined benefit pension plan. This plan is accounted
for as a defined contribution plan.
Employees of the County participate in the Local Authorities Pension Plan (LAPP), which is one of
the plans covered by the Public Sector Pension Plans Act. The LAPP serves about 244,621
people and about 426 employers. The LAPP is financed by employer and employee contributions
and investment earnings of the LAPP fund.
Contributions for current service are recorded as expenditures in the year in which they become
due. The County is required to make current service contributions to the Plan of 11.39% of
pensionable earnings up to the yearÓs maximum pensionable earnings under t he Canada Pension
4% on pensionable earnings above this amount. Employees of the County are
required to make current service contributions of 10.39% of pensionable salary up to the yearÓs
maximum pensionable salary and % on pensionable salary above this amount.
Total current service contributions by the County to the LAPP in 2016 were $613,239 (2015 -
$609,423). Total current service contributions by the employees of the County to the LAPP in
2016 were $565,546 (2015 - $).
At December 31, 2015, the LAPP disclosed an actuarial deficiency of $923 million.
C OUNTY OF N EWELL - 2016 A NNUAL F INANCIAL R EPORT
P AGE 49
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COUNTY OF NEWELL
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Year ended December 31, 2016
20. Contingent liabilities:
The County of Newell is a member of the Alberta Municipal Insurance Exchange (MUNIX). Under
the terms of membership, the County of Newell could become liable for its proportionate share of
any claim losses in excess of the funds held by the exchange. Any liability incurred would be
accounted for as a current transaction in the year the losses are determined.
21. Recent accounting pronouncements:
The Public Sector Accounting Board recently announced the following accounting
pronouncements:
(a) Financial instruments:
This section establishes recognition, measurement, and disclosure requirements for
derivative and non-derivative instruments. The standard requires fair value measurements of
derivative instruments and equity instruments; all other financial instruments can be measured
at either cost or fair value depending upon elections made by the government. Unrealized
gains and losses will be presented on the new statement of remeasurement gains and losses
arising from the adoption of PS 1201. There will also be a requirement to disclose the nature
and extent of risks arising from financial instruments and clarification is given for the de-
recognition of financial liabilities. As the Municipality does not invest in derivatives or equity
instruments based on its investment policy, it is anticipated that the adoption of this standard
will have a minimal impact on the Municipality. This standard is effective for fiscal years
beginning on or after April 1, 2019.
(b) Foreign currency translation:
This section establishes guidance on the recognition, measurement, presentation and
disclosure of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies. The Section requires
monetary assets and liabilities, denominated in a foreign currency and non-monetary items
valued at fair value denominated in a foreign currency to be adjusted to reflect the exchange
rates in effect at the financial statement date. The resulting unrealized gains and losses are
to be presented in the new statement of remeasurement gains and losses. This standard is
effective for fiscal years beginning on or after April 1, 2019.
(c) Related party transactions:
This section provides guidance on the definition of a related party and establishes the
disclosure requirements for transactions between related parties. This standard is effective
for fiscal years beginning on or after April 1, 2017.
P AGE 50C OUNTY OF N EWELL - 2016 A NNUAL F INANCIAL R EPORT
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COUNTY OF NEWELL
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Year ended December 31, 2016
21. Recent accounting pronouncements:
(d) Financial statement presentation:
The implementation of this standard requires a new statement of re-measurement gains and
losses separate from the statement of operations. This new statement will include the
unrealized gains and losses arising from the remeasurement of financial instruments and
items denominated in a foreign currency. This standard is effective for fiscal years beginning
on or after April 1, 2019
Management is assessing the impact of the adoption of these standards which is not known or
reasonably estimable at this time.
22. Segmented Disclosures:
Segmented disclosures (Schedule 1) are intended to enable users to better understand the
government reporting entity and the major expense and revenue activities of the County.
The segments have been selected based upon functional activities provided by the County. For
each reported segment, revenues and expenses represent both amounts directly attributable to
the segment and amounts that are allocated on a reasonable basis. The functional areas that
have been separately disclosed, along with the services they provide are as follows:
(a) General government is comprised of Council, Legislative, Corporate Administration,
Finance, Information and Computer Services, Planning, Economic Development,
Corporate Safety, Agricultural Services, Fire and Disaster Services, Bylaw Enforcement,
Community Services, Recreation, Parks and Programs and Library.
(b) Public Works and Transportation is comprised of Roads and Engineering Services.
(c) Public Utilities is comprised of Water, Wastewater and Solid Waste.
Photograph by S. Plett
C OUNTY OF N EWELL - 2016 A NNUAL F INANCIAL R EPORT
P AGE 51
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COUNTY OF NEWELL
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Year ended December 31, 2016
23. Budget information:
The budget information presented in these consolidated financial statements is based upon the
2016 budget approved by Council on March 24, 2016.
24. Approval of financial statements:
These financial statements were approved by Council and Management.
Photograph by C. Shaffer
P AGE 52C OUNTY OF N EWELL - 2016 A NNUAL F INANCIAL R EPORT
SCHEDULE OF SEGMENTED DISCLOSURES
COUNTY OF NEWELL Schedule 1
Schedule of Segmented Disclosures
Year ended December 31, 2016, with comparative information for 2015
Public Works Public Works
General and Total General and Total
Government Transportation Public Utilities 2016 Government Transportation Public Utilities 2015
Revenue
Net taxes for municipal purposes$ 29,792,314$ - $ -$ 29,792,314$ $ -$ -$
Special levies 311,243 - - 3,460,453
User Fees and sale of goods 530,515 257,732 997,241
Government transfers - operating - 105,000 749,745 - 933,439
Penalties and costs of taxes - - - -
Investment income 1,642,224 - - 1,642,224 1,592,290 - - 1,592,290
License and permits 153,032 - - 153,032 - -
Other 496,641 97,925 174,195 555,660 67,732 559,935
Gain (loss) on disposal of capital assets 10,301 - (77,612)
33,652,123 192,477 2,372,593 36,217,193 33,030,326 5,123,711 39,265,145
Expenses
Salaries, wages and benefits 2,539,515 - 7,430,179 - 7,451,402
Contracted and general services 3,725,751 4,040,966
Materials, goods, supplies and utilities 1,243,977 750,333 1,231,125 711,522 3,966,506
Transfer to Organization 4,241,371 - 22,679 4,264,050 -
Bank charges and short term interest 5,370 - - 5,370 4,246 - -
4,246
Interest on long-term debt - 556,235 - 574,769 735,351
Other expenditures - - -
Amortization 990,695 4,336,601 4,127,291 5,744,761
10,427,914 2,913,144 27,467,156 10,629,544
Annual surplus (deficit)
before the undernoted 19,526,025 (10,235,437) (540,551) 2,693,907 12,420,299
Other
Insurance proceeds - - - - - -
Contributed assets 904,423 - - 904,423 - 13,407 - 13,407
Government transfers - capital - - - 15,523,524 16,044,107
Other - - - - - - 743,615 743,615
Annual surplus (deficit)$ $ (10,235,437)$ $ 13,523,021$ 20,321,511$ $ $
Photograph by C. Schaffer
C OUNTY OF N EWELL - 2016 A NNUAL F INANCIAL R EPORT
P AGE 53
Photograph by D. Nyberg
P AGE 54
SECTION 4
STATISTICAL SECTION
C OUNTY OF N EWELL - 2016 A NNUAL F INANCIAL R EPORT P AGE 55
STATISTICAL SECTION
Demographics & Other Statistics
7,524
2,959 2,996 3,033 3,073
Area in hectares 623,537 619,600 619,600 619,600 619,600
Continuous full-time employees 55 60 61 63 65
Debt supported by property taxes17,115,017 27,134,749 29,357,355 24,414,424
Debt supported by notes receivable4,479,144 2,919,673 1,537,923
3,4014,210 3,449
21,011,05923,396,133 13,523,021
221,455,146
Net financial assets 42,553,30340,412,495 52,365,506 60,214,332
Permits Issued:
90 76 9494
Building Permit
202 169 163202
Electrical Permit
97 92 64
Gas Permit
51 56 63 69
Plumbing Permit
21 2221 22
Private Sewage Permit
445 393 431 479 420
Photograph by F. Bexte
P AGE 56C OUNTY OF N EWELL - 2016 A NNUAL F INANCIAL R EPORT
STATISTICAL SECTION
Expenses by Object
EXPENSES20122013201420152016
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31st
Salaries, wages and benefits$ $ $ $ 7,451,402 $ 7,430,179
Contracted and general services 3,251,416 4,949,447 4,040,966 3,725,751
Materials, goods, supplies and utilities 3,156,794 4,007,534 3,966,506
Transfers to organizations 2,530,290 4,177,337 4,264,050
Bank charges and short-term interest 596 4,246 5,370
Interest on long-term debt 442,926 639,649 700,535 735,351
Other expenditures 125,926 54,114
Amortization 4,422,416 5,744,761
TOTAL EXPENSES BY OBJECT$ 20,101,723$ $ 25,930,641$ $ 27,467,156
Significant items driving variances in total expenses trends across the period include:
Salaries, wages and benefits:
FTEÓs increase d from 55 in 2012 to 65 in 2016;
Contracted and general services:
Reclamation of old public works yard in 2013 & 2014 ($300 thousand);
Assessment of IT ;
Contracted water meter installation project in 2013 ($40 thousand) & 2014 ($32 thousand);
Materials, goods, supplies and utilities:
Construction of water line to Dinosaur Provincial Park (non-TCA) in 2013 ($64 thousand) & 2014
($359 thousand);
Water meters for meter installation project in 2013 ($64 thousand) & 2014 ($62 thousand);
Utilities increased with move to new facilities in 2013 by approximately $73 thousand per year;
Transfers to organizations:
Transfers of insurance proceeds on the Duchess Soccer Centre to the Village of Duchess in 2013
($1.4 million), 2014 ($63 thousand) and 2015 ($1.1 million);
Other expenditures:
$1.1 million employee sick time liability arising from a policy change in 2016;
Amortization:
Total cost of tangible capital assets has increased from $203 million in 2012 to $291 million in 2016
which has led to the increasing annual amortization expense.
$8,000,000
$7,000,000
$6,000,000
$5,000,000
$4,000,000
$3,000,000
$2,000,000
$1,000,000
$
Salaries,wagesContractedandMaterials,TransferstoBankchargesInterestondebtOtherAmortization
andbenefitsgeneralservicesgoods,suppliesorganizationsexpenditures
andutilities
20122013201420152016
C OUNTY OF N EWELL - 2016 A NNUAL F INANCIAL R EPORT
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STATISTICAL SECTION
Expenses by Function
EXPENSES20122013201420152016
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31st
Legislative$ 433,035$ 456,097$ 494,612 $ 477,619 $
Administration 3,592,537 4,130,921
Corporate safety services 251,127260,472 296,975
Fire and bylaw enforcement 1,060,690 1,452,592 1,297,464
Disaster and emergency services 145,619 197,126
Roads, streets, walks and lighting 9,722,194
Airport 92,701 123,604 120,979
Water and waste water 1,376,277 2,123,647
Waste management 306,155 313,250
Family and community support 64,466 64,466 64,466
Municipal planning 526,626 495,112
Community and agricultural services 1,300,551 1,600,315
Subdivision land and development 265,710 342,342 363,370 173,915
Recreation and parks
Culture and library 151,400 152,759 154,470
Other 2,600,013 1,469,629 3,093,711 3,677,604
TOTAL EXPENSES BY FUNCTION$ 20,101,723$ $ 25,930,641$ $ 27,467,156
P AGE 58C OUNTY OF N EWELL - 2016 A NNUAL F INANCIAL R EPORT
STATISTICAL SECTION
Revenues by Source
Revenues by Source
REVENUES20122013201420152016
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31st
Net municipal property taxes$26,174,091 $29,792,314
Special levies 711,4652,045,909
User fees and sale of goods 1,666,294
Government transfers 1,073,512933,439
Penalties and cost of taxes 250,591
Investment income 1,736,9931,541,3431,654,2401,592,2901,642,224
Licenses and permits 166,302153,032
Other revenue 1,565,7152,061,463
Gain (loss) on disposal of tangible capital assets (123,751)365,342(5,403)
Operating revenues 35,375,534 39,265,145 36,217,193
Other:
Insurance proceeds - 1,450,000 62,969 -
Contributed from other local government - 2,795,262 - - -
Contributed assets - - 13,407 904,423
Government transfers 9,710,706 16,044,107
Other - - 2,006,616 743,615 -
10,773,330
TOTAL REVENUE$ $ $49,326,774 $57,142,957 $40,990,175
Property taxes continue to be the most significant source of revenue for the County, comprising from
total operating revenues over the period illustrated above. A few of the more significant items driving variances in
total revenue trends across the period include:
Government transfers for operating and capital, which are dependent on other levels of government;
Insurance proceeds received in 2013, 2014 and 2015 for the Duchess Soccer Centre which was destroyed
by fire;
Contributed assets from the dissolution of the Village of Tilley in 2013;
Special levies, which include local improvement taxes, and depend on local improvement projects
completed in a given year; and
Proceeds received from bonding companies for contract completion of the Regional Water Project which
have been included in Other revenue.
Photograph by M. Marshall
C OUNTY OF N EWELL - 2016 A NNUAL F INANCIAL R EPORT
P AGE 59
Photograph by M. Slomp
P AGE 60C OUNTY OF N EWELL - 2016 A NNUAL F INANCIAL R EPORT