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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2012 Annual Report - newspaper version (web)Howe of Prov'nc''a[ �a 2012 ANNUAL REPORT COUNTY OF NEWELL I wi 'OLD 41 - OUNfY • Aw &. &_ • *Alk AN N UAL GENERAL MEETING MAY 21, 2013 7:00 P.M. COMMUNITY HALL PATRICIA, AB ELL REEVE'S REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDING 2012 by Molly Douglass, County of Newell Reeve Our 2012 Council year proved to be ordinary and extraordinary with agenda items ranging from consideration of a new logo, a review of our Land Use Bylaw, approval of tenders for the County of Newell Water Project along with numerous delays in the completion of our new facilities, rat problems to the East of us and the a -coli outbreak right here at home. If such or similar topics grab your attention, remember that this is municipal election year across Alberta. The date is October 21, the term is now for four years rather than three, and every municipality, big or small, participates. As is the case with all rural municipalities, the County of Newell has a number of hamlets under its jurisdiction. Traditionally these are small communities without self government offering mainly residential services. One of our more unique hamlets is Patricia, which is where our Annual General Meeting will be held this year. The location is the Community Hall, a nice new facility — on the Main Street of course — and the date is Tuesday May 21, 2013 at 7:00 pm. Within this publication is information summarizing last year's work by the County's three major departments —Agricultural Services, Municipal Planning and Public Works. Financial reports are also included. Along with our Administration, a wide array of support services in the areas of information technology, economic development, tax assessment, accounting, weed inspecting, payroll, equipment repair, heavy equipment operation, planning, land use, etc are part of the everyday operations that are provided to ratepayers. Our Staff and Council respect and appreciate one another. All are encouraged and supported to take leadership roles in good decision making. Our Council continues to look for cooperative projects and regional partnerships that produce positive and practical benefits for our greater "community" and thus benefit everyone. Above and below ground infrastructure accomplishments continue to move along, many as a result of our joint efforts. I hope lots of you can join us for the AGM to learn more about the County of Newell and how it works. Bring along a neighbour, your questions, concerns, and ideas ... or come for the coffee and doughnuts! Let's hope spring will truly have arrived by then. MUNICIPAL PLANNING COMMISSION CHAIRMAN'S REPORT by Anne Marie Philipsen, Municipal Planning Commission Chairman The Municipal Planning Commission (MPC) is an important body in the decision making process for subdivision and development matters in the County of Newell. The committee is comprised of the full elected County Council, and meets twice a month to make decisions about planning and development issues. Meetings start at 10:00 am, and are immediately followed by the regular Council meeting. All meetings are held in the Council Chambers of the brand new County building. The public is always welcome to attend both MPC and Council meetings. If you wish to address a concern about a particular application, however, please contact County administration so you can be included in the meeting agenda. The County's primary planning tool is the Land Use Bylaw, which is used by MPC and the Planning and Development Department to direct, regulate, and support ongoing use and development of land in the County. In 2011 a Land Use Bylaw Review Committee reviewed and updated the existing Land Use Bylaw to ensure it continues to be relevant and applicable to current planning and development needs in the County. The new Land Use Bylaw came into effect in October of 2012 and may be viewed on the County website (www.countyofnewell.ab.ca) or purchased at the County office. In reviewing subdivision and development activity over the course of 2012, subdivision approvals in the County were slightly down from previous years. A total of 23 new subdivisions were approved by MPC, down from 30 in 2011 and 29 in 2010. The 2012 subdivisions can be broken down into the following categories: 14 Farmstead Separations — the existing farm site is subdivided from the rest of the quarter section and either retained by the landowner or sold as an acreage; 3 Boundary Adjustments or Corrections — the size of the existing subdivision is adjusted or the placement of an existing subdivision is corrected; 2 Multi -lot — created to resell as acreages; 1 industrial — a single lot consolidated into an adjacent parcel 3 Other In addition, 1 subdivision application was denied by MPC. Upon appeal to the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board (SDAB), the decision was upheld and the subdivision was not allowed. In terms of development activity, a total of 114 development permits were issued in 2012, up from 82 in 2011. Of these, 85 were for Residential construction projects (either a new dwelling or additions to existing dwellings), 5 were Home Occupation businesses, and 24 were for Commercial or Industrial purposes (either a new building or additions to existing buildings). Several staff members assist the Municipal Planning Commission in making well-informed land use planning and development decisions in the County. The Manager of Planning and Development, Alyce Wickert, and the Development Clerk, Shanna Lee Simpson, can be contacted with your development and subdivision questions. In addition, the Oldman River Regional Services Commission (ORRSC) provides planning services for subdivision approvals and support for the Planning and Development department. ORRSC also provides a wide range of municipal planning services to over 40 rural and urban municipalities in Southern Alberta. The Planning and Development department can also assist with your construction permit needs, and are accredited to issue electrical, gas, plumbing, building and PSDS permits. Forfurther information about Planning and Development in the County, please go to the newly constructed County website at www.co u ntyofnewe Il.a b.ca. Visit us online! www.cou ntyofnewell.a b.ca PAGE 2 Follow us on Twitter! Like us on Facebook! w�witte @County of Newell M County of Newell SUMMARIZED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE COUNTY OF NEWELL For the Year Ending December 31, 2012 The accompanying summarized financial information represents only excerpts derived from the audited financial statement of the County of Newell as at December 31, 2012. Those individuals interested in the County's financial position, results of operations and cash flows are encouraged to read the complete 2012 Annual Financial Report. Copies are available upon request or by visiting the County of Newell's website at www.countyofnewell. ab.ca. COUNTY OF NEWELL Consolidated Statement of Financial Position December 31, 2012, with comparative figures for 2011 Financial assets: Cash and temporary investments (note 2) Taxes and grants in place of taxes receivable (note 3) Trade and other receivables Land held for resale Investments (note 4) Notes receivable (note 5) Financial liabilities Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Employee benefit obligations (note 7) Unearned revenue (note 8) Long-term debt - operating (note 9) Long-term debt - capital (note 10) Provision for landfill closure and post -closure costs (note 11) Provision for gravel pit closure and post -closure costs (note 11) Deposit liabilities (note 2) Other financial liabilities Net financial assets Non-financial assets: Prepaid expenses Tangible Capital Assets (note 6) Inventory for consumption Contingent liabilities (note 19) Accumulated surplus (note 12) Expenses by object: Salaries, wages and benefits Contracted and general services Materials, goods, supplies and utilities Transfers to organizations Bank charges and short-term interest Interest on long-term debt Other expenditures Amortization 2012 2011 Fin1/Bylaw/Cis-1, 2011 services/Cory safety` 7%, $ 24,544,459 $ 26,438,521 M C/ASB/S d ,�/Em De,/ 890,911 860,635 6,258,580 7,805,038 35,139 35,139 35,901,728 27,660,432 5,920,763 6,791,226 73,551,580 69,590,991 7,253,208 321,915 1,055,761 4,479,144 17,115,017 292,215 315,376 158,270 7,371 30,998,277 42,553,303 6,918,716 233,205 2,552,468 wacaE/sawadea;��a 5,095,521 7%, 349,691 339,507 293,701 149,067 99,885 16,031,761 53,559,230 86,082 156,570 156,681,903 122,813,081 1,122,799 953,361 157,890,784 123,923,012 2012 Municipal Expenses FCSS Airyort rL191S�a 1/611— q 2Y Administration -20% wow/shop I.Y. 2012 Municipal Revenue s��� rpS.r�a. Bei/Dos%/F� Op—Ing pbsp v =dna �3ED $200,444,087 $177,482,242 MPaAse/s ed /E o De / Budget 2012 2011 (Unaudited) $ 7,419,098 $ 6,626,248 $ 6,063,168 6,613,127 3,829,256 6,532,596 3,591,801 2,495,296 2,401,879 2,283,092 2,530,290 4,039,138 600 596 508 282,847 442,926 325,913 88,000 280,509 225,294 5,634,802 3,896,602 3,538,428 $ 25,913,367 $ 20,101,723 $ 23,126,924 1ene 1/Ad n anon ELI , o ;WV .COCY1 ;:J Newell Regional Tourism Association PAGE 3 SUMMARIZED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE COUNTY OF NEWELL For the Year Ending December 31, 2012 Net municipal property taxes Net municipal property taxes $ 26,752,947 2012 2011 $ 12,942,564 $ 12,602,000 25,407,884 24,927,486 221,111 269,162 38,571,559 37,798,648 11,733,419 11,830,796 664,049 630,438 12, 397, 468 12, 461, 234 Linear Pror $ 26,174,091 $ 25,337,414 65 87v 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 2012 2011 Benefits & Salary(1) Allowances(2) Total Total Council Budget (Unaudited) Taxation $ 31,635 Real property taxes $ 13,611,477 Linear property taxes 25,407,884 Government grants in place of property 28,105 taxes 228,429 5,867 39,247,790 Requisitions 22,273 Alberta School Foundation Fund 11,830,795 Newell Foundation 664,048 1,148 12,494,843 Net municipal property taxes $ 26,752,947 2012 2011 $ 12,942,564 $ 12,602,000 25,407,884 24,927,486 221,111 269,162 38,571,559 37,798,648 11,733,419 11,830,796 664,049 630,438 12, 397, 468 12, 461, 234 Linear Pror $ 26,174,091 $ 25,337,414 65 87v 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 2012 2011 Benefits & Salary(1) Allowances(2) Total Total Council Dzision 1 $ 31,635 $ 5,835 $ 37,470 Division 2 27,523 582 28,105 Division 3 33,525 5,867 39,392 Division 4 22,273 1,122 23,395 Division 5 22,911 1,148 24,059 Dzision 6 24,390 4,586 28,976 Division 7 28,572 5,666 34,238 Division 8 30,428 1,451 31,879 Division 9 47,733 2,202 49,935 Division 10 27,488 5,623 33,111 $ 296,478 $ 34,082 $ 330,560 Chief Administrative Officer $ 190,632 $ 38,970 $ 229,602 2012 Property Taxes 2012 Allocation of Property Tax Christ the Redeemer S.D. #3, esidenhal 1075% and Alberta School `oundatton 29.94% $ 33,192 34,291 40,569 Newell Foundation 22,936 Municipal 1,72% 35,552 67.56% 30,588 34,062 32,803 34,751 ANNUAL Or-Nr-KAL MEETING AGENDA $ 344,049 May 21, 2013 beginning at 7:00 p.m. Location: Patricia Community Hall $ 226,311 1. Welcome & Introductions 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 employer's 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 employer's 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 F The Grand Opening Ceremony will be held on Friday, June 21, 2013 beginning at 11:00 a.m. The day's events will include FREE BBQ Beef on a Bun, cake, an official grand open- ing ceremony, and tours of our new facility. Hope to see you there! P A G E j4X4 F a 2. Approval of the Minutes of the 2011 Annual General Meeting 3. Presentations • Financial Report • Patricia Scale • Growing Forward Water Program • Patrica Lagoon & Drainage • Infrastructure Master Plan A Rnund Tahle niccuccinnc PUBLIC WORKS REPORT by Mark Harbicht, Superintendent of Public Works 2012 was a great year, and as you will see in the highlights below, the County is advancing the quality of life for residents through numerous projects. Regional Water Pipeline Project Newell Regional Services Corporation is working to complete the regional pipeline project. Following contractor default in 2012, a new tender was issued to resolve deficiencies along the Rosemary pipeline. Upon completion, delivery of potable water from the Brooks Treatment Plant to Rosemary and Bassano will be possible. The regional water system will then be serving residents in all "urban" centres within the corporate boundaries of the County. The collaboration of our six municipalities — Bassano, Brooks, Duchess, Rosemary, Tilley, County — along with the Province of Alberta, through the Water for Life Strategy, has made regional water treatment and distribution a reality. Reference from the Alberta Government webpage. "Water is not only a resource, it is a life source. We all share the responsibility to ensure a healthy, secure and sustainable water supply for our communities, environment, and economy — our quality of life depends on it. The Government of Alberta has released the Water for Life action plan, the roadmap that the government and its partners will follow over the next 10 years. The action plan supports the goals and direction in Alberta's renewed Water for Life strategy. " Additional information can be found online at: http://www.waterforlife.al berta.ca/ County of Newell Water Project (CNWP) The County of Newell Water Project is surpassing the project's mid-life. The following is a brief update highlighting progress, including 2013 expectations. • Duchess - The contract work is completed and the second major milestone of the project achieved. Activation and delivery of potable water to our first rural water customer took place February 2013. The project included installation of 135 Km's of high density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe ranging from 40 to 150 mm in size, providing service connections to 227 residences and businesses, at a cost of approximately $6.4 million. • Rolling Hills - The project included installation of 105 Km's of HDPE and provides services to 95 residences and businesses, at a cost of approximately $3.0 million. Activation and delivery of potable water to customers is expected for May/June 2013. • Tilley - The project included installation of 152 Km's of HDPE pipe providing service connections to 180 residences and businesses, at a cost of approximately $5.0 million. Like Rolling Hills, activation and delivery of potable water to customers is expected for May/June 2013. • Kinbrook Island - The project included installation of 2 Km's of HDPE pipe providing service connections to 33 residences and businesses, including that of Kinbrook Provincial Park Campground, at a cost of approximately $1.1 million. Activation of services is to coincide with the Tilley contract. • North Brooks - Contract work is 35% complete (as of March 2013 month end). Expected completion for installation of 98 Km's of HDPE pipe is the fall /winter of 2013. • Rosemary - Contract work is 40% complete (as of March 2013 month end). Expected completion for installation of 81 Km's is the fall/ winter of 2013. • Patricia - Contract is currently under detail design revisions in preparation for tender. Tendering is planned for June 2013 with construction start up anticipated for fall/winter, with completion in 2014. • Cassils - This project area is currently in the process of easement signing. Upon completion detail design will take place, with tendering of the work shortly thereafter. It is anticipated that work will be completed in 2014. • Scandia/Rainier, Bassano, and Gem projects will be considered respectively for tender and construction in 2014. The County remains optimistic of realizing project completion by the end of 2014. As it is today, tendered prices continue to be significantly lower than engineered estimates. Wastewater Treatment - Lift Stations and Treatment Facilities Major wastewater collection and treatment projects are two-thirds complete. In 2012 the County successfully completed upgrading Scandia facilities at a cost of approximately $2.3 million to two cell treatment (one facultative and one storage cell) including installation of a new sanitary lift station and forcemain. The Scandia Lagoon facilities, acquired necessary land and a pivot used for broadcasting effluent. Rolling Hills lift station replacement was completed at a cost of approximately $650,000. The lagoon met two cell treatment standards, and therefore did not require expansion. A planned improvement for 2013 at the Rolling Hills facility is the installation of a pivot on the grazing lands for broadcasting of effluent. Broadcasting effluent is an Alberta Environment approved practice and environmental impact improvement reducing the need of direct discharge to a watercourse. In 2012 the County also sought to acquire new lands and relocate the Patricia Lagoon facilities, deferring the start of improvements. Upon the completion of the Patricia project, two cell treatment and irrigation equipment (pivot) will be standard at all three Hamlet wastewater treatment facilities. Completion of these projects will fulfill current regulations and legislation for Wastewater Treatment Facilities. EID/County Partnership on Drainage The Partnership now in its third year continues with improvements of $2 million annually ($1 million each party), as approved by EID Board and County Council. Completed projects include Cassils (2011 - 15.2 Km's) and Rolling Hills (2012 - 36.8 Km's). 2013 improvements are scheduled in Scandia where 5.6 Km's of major drainage improvements are already complete. Another 46.5 Km's consisting of roadside and major drain systems are planned to be completed by winter. Paved Road Capital Program The Paved Road Capital Plan for 2012 was limited to the tendering of R15-5 from Highway 1 north to Hwy 550. The project carried forward to 2013 in its entirety. R15-5 shall be constructed and paved to non -banned standard promoting its year-round use in transportation of goods and services to and from markets, and is expected to be completed by July 2013 at a cost of $8.8 million. Paving projects scheduled for 2014/15 include the overlay of Kinbrook Island Access and the East Scandia Access. Additional paving projects are planned in our long term capital plan. Timing of projects is subject to available funding. Equipment In 2012 the County, through tendered process, acquired two John Deere 870 GP graders (machine total value $610,400, no plows purchased), two new fleet trucks, and one 2 ton fleet truck for multi- tasking of hamlet snow services and summer tasks. Acquisitions are meeting our expectations in performance and operational costs. The department continues into 2013 with its five year replacement program which under recent award of Council will be two CAT/Finning 160 M Series graders valued at $764,454.00 (machine total value $699,454, 6 -way plow total value 30,500). Two fleet trucks are also scheduled for replacement through tender in 2013. History In 2000 the County awarded grader tender to CAT/Finning for the purchase of two 14H Graders at a total value of $667,578. That said, prices of machines have fluctuated both up and down however remain comparable to 13 years ago. In closing, I wish to express my gratitude to our dedicated team of supporting managers and staff, without you the services we provide would not be possible. Thank you to those consultants and contractors who have worked alongside us, seeing us through necessary improvements and beneficial upgrades, including completing annual programs. A special thanks to the Eastern Irrigation District and their team of skilled individuals for contributions in improving the quality of life for residents through the drainage partnership, as well as other collaborations. And, to County Council, the CAO, and Assistant Administrator I thank you and commend you for your ongoing contributions and leadership. I am proud to serve you and the rate payers of Newell and look forward to 2013 and its' challenges and our successes. PAGE 5 2011 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING MINUTES May 24, 2012 The 2011 Annual Meeting of the County of Newell was held at the Community Center in Scandia, AB on Thursday, May 24, 2012 commencing at 7:20 p.m. MEMBERS PRESENT: STAFF PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: M Douglass, Reeve K Stephenson, Chief Administrative Officer P Brouwer, MPE Engineering Ltd C Amulung L Johnson, Assistant Administrator M Coles, MPE Engineering Ltd I Schroeder M Harbicht, Superintendent of Public Works D Scott, MPE Engineering Ltd A M Philipsen T Schroeder, Assistant Superintendent of Public Works M Kasun, MPE Engineering Ltd R Andrews G Tiffin, Technical Manager C Mitchell, AM EC M Nesbitt J. Nesbitt, Community Peace Officer Supervisor D Simpson, Genivar J Bulger T. Green, Agricultural Fieldman K Jacobs, Genivar A Eastman R Nesbitt, Corporate Safety Services Officer B de Jong A Wickert, Development Control Officer MEDIA PRESENT: L Juss D Horvath, County Planner- ORRSC S Stanway, Brooks Bulletin A Nielsen, Executive Assistant H Brees, Brooks & County Chronicle J Petrie, The One 20 ratepayers were in attendance for the 2011 Annual Meeting of the County of Newell Reeve M Douglass called the meeting to order at 7 20 p m 1. Welcome & Introductions The Reeve welcomed everyone to the meeting and introduced the Councillors seated at the head table 2. Approval of the Minutes of the 2010 Annual Meeting MOVED BY Lynn Pye-Matheson that the 2010 Annual Meeting minutes be adopted as presented MOTION CARRIED 3. Presentations a. Presentation of 2011 Year End Audited Financial Statements The Chief Administrative Officer presented the 2011 Year End Audited Financial Statements, indicating that there has not been a lot of change since last year He gave the highlights of the assets, revenues, reserves, taxes, and expenses as well as a comparison of the financial statements over the past three years The County liabilities were reduced by % million and reserves by 4 million which were used to various capital projects Revenues are down 0 1% from 2010, but remain in a positive position since the recession hit in 2007 The mill rates have remained virtually the same for the past seven years, and the assessments have grown slightly County operating expense increases remain fairly consistent at approximately 2 5% per year over the past 5 years Capital expenses naturally fluctuate year by depends of Council priorities The Chief Administrative Officer gave an update on the capital projects currently underway, including the Regional Water Project, the County of Newell Water Project (Rural Water Distribution System), the paving of Range Road 15-5, and the new County of Newell facilities He also indicated that the Agricultural Services Board and Public Works departments have many projects on the go Other projects include the drainage partnership with the Eastern Irrigation District, drainage and sewer system improvements in Scandia, drainage and lift station improvements in Rolling Hills, sewer system upgrades in Scandia, and modernization of the County's computer systems He indicated that the largest change in the statements is in assets purchased for the aforementioned projects, as well as roads, bridges, and equipment A portion of the reserves will be used to fund the County of Newell Water Project until the Municipal Sustainability Initiative (MSI) funding allocation is received from the provincial government. He explained the debenture process, which is another source of funding The Chief Administrative Officer expressed thanks to the Government of Alberta, as many County projects depend on provincial funding He also recognized County staff and Council for their hard work and dedication in keeping County projects and services running smoothly Those in attendance were given the opportunity to ask questions A ratepayer indicated that he had heard that there had been delays in MSI funding and expressed concerns about the County not receiving the full allocation The Chief Administrative Officer acknowledged that ensuring the County receives committed MSI funds for the Rural Water Project is a concern, but he indicated the Province has already approved the project and the funding so he is confident they will honour their commitment He explained that the recent election has resulted in a shift of more urban governing MLA's which may impact grant funding allocations in the future to the rural ridings b. Scandia Storm Water & Lagoon Upgrade Project C Mitchell introduced himself and provided an overview of the project Once the new cell is commissioned for the Scandia Wastewater Lagoon, the old cell will be updated. A new forcemain, pumps, and backup generator have been installed at the lift station He estimated that the upgrade will be complete in six weeks He also provided an overview of the improvements to the storm water drainage system, which will divertwater into the ditch along Railway Avenue and collect in a retention pond There will be upgrades to the sidewalks, curb and gutter, and catch basins and swales will be constructed on the east side of Railway Avenue He thanked everyone who was cooperating with the project C Mitchell responded to questions regarding the pump station and provision of water for irrigation purposes A ratepayer asked if property owners in town would be receiving another bill for this project, indicating that they already receive bills for surface water and sewer. Councillor R Andrews explained that the majority of the project funding would be supplied by the County and the Alberta Municipal Water/Wastewater PAGE 6 r -W Partnership(AMWWP) program The remainderofthe funding will come from local improvement The billing for the surface water is yet to be determined A ratepayer expressed concerns about spring flooding in the cemetery The Superintendent of Public Works indicated that he had visited the area with the EID yesterday He explained drainage improvements that would be made to Range Road 15-5 which should solve drainage problems in that area He indicated that, in order for the project to proceed, 5m of land must be acquired on each side of the road way He indicated that the Cassils area had been the first priority in the drainage partnership and that the EID did a great job He commented on AM EC's improvements to the roads and drainage in Scandia, indicating that he could not guarantee that there would be no incidents but that the system would be improved to the standards of Alberta Environment and residents A ratepayer indicated that there was an ineffective drain next to their driveway The Superintendent of Public Works replied that they hope the drainage project will be completed by the end of the year and that they should see considerable improvement A ratepayer asked when Telus would be reinstalling telephone lines Reeve M Douglass indicated that Telus representatives have met with Council twice to discuss this issue They are behind schedule and work not completed within the annual budget is carried forward to the following year The Superintendent of Public Works indicated that they are trying to work with the EID to see lines buried at the same time construction takes place for drainage plans He noted that this issue has been discussed with both the Alberta Association of Municipal Districts & Counties (AAMDC) and the provincial government d. Regional Water Project Update M Kasun indicated the display boards setup in the hall showing the overall regional system He outlined the scope of the project, indicating that the system will have the capacity for growth projected over 25 years as well as supplying water to rural residents He explained the phases of the project and displayed a map of each phase Phase three is currently under construction, which is the water line from Rosemary to Bassano, including a short interconnection to Duchess He provided status updates for Tilley, Lake Newell Resort, Rainier, Scandia, Rolling Hills, and the Uplands connection to Brooks, which are all connected to the regional water system Patricia is currently operating with a temporary connection while the Water Treatment Plant is renovated Rosemary is expected to be complete this year and Duchess and Bassano completed in 2013 C. County of Newell Water Project Update (Rural Water) M. Coles presented an overview of the County of Newell Water Project (CNWP). The project will be completed in ten phases with the contract areas based loosely on the County's divisional boundaries He explained the process for acquiring blanket easements across each quarter, indicating thatthis is accomplished through easement signing parties and then individual consultation He explained the tender process for construction Once the contract has been awarded, they meet with the landowner to determine the location of the curbstop He noted that residents will be notified when they are able to connect, as the system must be fully chlorinated and flushed before it can be used He displayed a map showing the contract areas and provided an update on the project status The Duchess and Rosemary areas are nearly complete and they expect to tender the project for the Tilley area in July Construction started in the Rolling Hills area in the fall and they hope to complete it by January 2013 The Brooks west area is expected to be operational in 2013 and easement parties were held for the Brooks North area Completion of the Scandia, Rainier, Bassano, and Gem areas are projected for 2015 He noted that these projected dates are dependent on obtaining the required easements and funding He provided an overview of the project costs e. Rural Road Study D Simpson explained that the objective of the Rural Road Study was to analyze each segment of the 1,500 km of gravel roads within the County, rate them, and establish a priority list for upgrades and construction He provided an overview of the methodology used to evaluate the roads The roads were rated using weighted criteria, including traffic volume, continuity, significance of the road, proximity to parallel highways, industry commodity, and the percentage of trucks using the road He displayed a map showing a breakdown of arterial and collector roads The criteria used for evaluating the roads included overall condition, road width, alignment, height of grade drainage, brushing, surface drainage, vertical alignment, side slopes, grade percentage, general visual safety, and right of way width The roads were all ranked to develop a multi-year construction program and all data collected will be uploaded to the County's GIS system D Simpson indicated that three recommended standards were established for roads — arterial, collector, and non -key He displayed a typical cross section of the roadway, indicating that they are looking at establishing a set of standards that will improve safety and drainage The suggested construction program is based on road type, priority rating, and construction rating and also includes cost estimates for the recommended improvements He displayed maps showing the proposed road upgrades over the next several years, indicating that the study can be used as a guideline for Council and Public Works to determine the annual road construction plan Those in attendance were given the opportunity to ask questions A ratepayer asked if having a proper crown on the road and a good grader operator could contribute to a road's longevity D Simpson agreed that proper grading is very important, as the road will last longer if the water is able to run off into the ditch faster A ratepayer asked about the repair of frost boils on the road around Lake Newell to the campground, particularly in the spot where water was drained last year, and suggested lobbying the provincial government to accomplish this The Superintendent of Public Works indicated that, since he started with the County, meetings had been attended with the M mister of Transportation during the AAMDC Spring and Fall conventions, where interest was conveyed regarding the upgrade of these roads to paved standards. He indicated that Alberta Transportation is subject to budget constraints and prioritize paving projects based on traffic and need He indicated that the County will continue to work with them to determine maintenance strategies, and that the County's position would be reiterated during a meeting on June 4, 2012 The Superintendent of Public Works also encouraged the ratepayers to contact Volker Stevin directly (1-866-VSROADS) with concerns about secondary highways, as Alberta Transportation does monitor the call volume and answers legitimate concerns Direct calls from ratepayers would help reinforce the County's position on the need to see these roads improved He acknowledged that, historically, the County's Public Works Department has not had the best relationship with ratepayers but they need to hear concerns, investigate complaints, and address the higher priority issues Councillor M Nesbitt noted that Alberta Transportation may consider the project if the traffic count can be proven Councillor B de Jong encouraged ratepayers to contact their divisional Councillor with concerns as well a. Oldman River Regional Services Commission D Horvath gave an overview of the draft land use bylaw, which sets rules and regulations for subdivision and development within the County The bylaw is divided into two sections The Administration section contains information on how to process applications and the Schedules section contains the land use districts, regulations, and specific standards All uses are defined so that there is a common understanding There will be 14 land use districts in 4 sections (residential, hamlet, non-residential, and other) D Horvath gave an overview of some changes to the Agricultural District zoning, including the ability to separate farmsteads and vacant parcels She also outlined some changes to the Country Residential District, which will be renamed Acreage Residential District and require the creation of 3-10 lots in order to qualify for this zone She reported that the draft Land Use Bylaw had been presented during a public open house on April 19, 2012 and they are inviting feedback from the public as well as Hamlet Advisory Boards, other municipalities, and affected agencies Once public input has been gathered, a reportwould be presented to Council for approval to proceed with the formal process for adopting the Land Use Bylaw, which requires a Public Hearing Those in attendance were given the opportunity to ask questions A ratepayer asked if a County road access was guaranteed with a subdivision approval D Horvath replied that each new subdivision requires legal and physical access Inmost cases, the Planning & Development Department works with Public Works and obtains signed agreements for an access in a location that is agreeable to both parties The Superintendent of Public Works noted that the setbacks from intersections are important for safety The policy states that there is to be one access per parcel and two per quarter section Additional accesses are granted based on need and subject to the approval of the Public Works Department The ratepayer asked if the County would give a road to the landownerthat is making the subdivision The Superintendent of Public Works replied that Public Works would approve the road and the landowner is responsible for building the road to County standards Another ratepayer asked if the Land Use Bylaw contained any rules regarding keeping agriculture a priority, since the County is mostly agricultural, and that noise and odor is to be expected D Horvath replied that this was included in the Municipal Development Plan She acknowledged that the primary land use within the County is Agricultural, but noted that rules regarding odor and noise cannot be legislated through the Land Use Bylaw She also acknowledged the great amount of concern regarding protecting agriculture and the right to farm being affected by adjacent uses She indicated that the public consultation that is required as part of the rezoning process attempts to mitigate those concerns Another ratepayer requested an explanation of the process used to notify adjacent landowners D Horvath replied that, for subdivision applications, rezoning, and Discretionary Use Development Permits, notification of the development is mailed out to those landowners whose land touches the land being developed A Land Use Amendment, or rezoning, also requires the Public Hearing to be advertised in a circulating newspaper for two consecutive weeks prior to the hearing The ratepayer asked if the neighbours would be notified if a house were being constructed D Horvath replied that, if the construction is a permitted use on the land, no notification is required For discretionary usage, Council will determine whether or not notification is required, and then adjacent landowners will be notified directly by mail 5. Question &Answer Period - Reeve M Douglass opened the floor for general discussion A ratepayer asked for an update on the letter sent to Division 4 ratepayers regarding an increase to the Recreation Requisition Councillor R Andrews replied that the increase had been approved as only one letter had been received in opposition The ratepayer indicated that roads and agriculture were a higher priority than recreation for improving the hamlets Councillor R. Andrews replied that many of the smaller communities are struggling to keep their community halls operating and Council decided to provide support because the community hall is an important part of the community Reeve M Douglass noted that each division sets its own recreation rate and the recent increase to the Division 4 rate brings it up to average The funding is used within the division for a variety of things, including community halls, curling rinks, and school programs Another ratepayer expressed concerns with the County providing hamlets with improved infrastructure that they will not be able to maintain without assistance from the County Reeve M Douglass acknowledged that tax revenue will not remain the same forever and that the County has been fortunate with the amount of revenue received from the oil and gas industry She said that, if support levels are to change, a variety of factors would have to be considered The hamlets provide services for rural communities, so the County has been supporting all of them in order to enhance the County as a whole. The infrastructure upgrades should put everyone in a good position for the next twenty- five years The Chief Administrative Officer indicated that the County wants to complete the capital upgrades now while construction costs are low and the economy is slow as that will put the county in a much better financial position for the long term S Fisk indicated that the Hamlet of Scandia is happy to have all the workers in the area and noted that the Proper Pete Railway Car is open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10 30 a m to 3 00 p m serving coffee and sandwiches Reeve M Douglass thanked her and E Chandler for arranging the hall for the meeting She also thanked the EID for their assistance A ratepayer asked if new streetlights would be installed once the sidewalks and infrastructure were completed Councillor R Andrews noted that the infrastructure upgrades came about as a result of sidewalks and streetlights As there were no further general questions, Reeve M Douglass encouraged any ratepayers with individual questions to visit with the various staff and/or Councillors available to obtain further information 6. Adjourn Reeve M Douglass adjourned the meeting at 9 05 p m Division 1 - Rolling Hills Councillor Clarence Amulung (403)964-2292 Division 2 - Tilley CA Councillor Ike Schroeder (403)377-2587 Division 3 - Patricia/Millicent Councillor -Anne Mane Philipsen (403) 378-4724 O Division 4 - an Andrews Councillor Ryan Andrews NMI W (403) 793-8144 Division 5 Cassils NMI - Councillor Mara Nesbitt Z (403)362-3037 LIM O Division - CouCouncilloror Joelel Bulger (403)641-4469 Division 7 - Rosemary Councillor -Allen Eastman (403) 378-4280 Division 8 - Duchess Councillor Brian de Jong (403)362-4587 Division 9 - Gem Reeve Molly Douglass (403)641-2562 Division 10 - Brooks Councillor Lionel Juss (403)362-5689 PAGE 7, , IVA& AGRICULTURAL SERVICE BOARD [ASB] REPORT by Todd Green, Agricultural Fieldman The present Agricultural Service Board (ASB) is comprised of ten elected members and six full time staff representatives. The ten elected officials sitting on the board include Clarence Amulung (Division 1), Ike Schroeder (Division 2), Anne Marie Philipsen (Division 3), Ryan Andrews (Division 4), Mara Nesbitt (Division 5), Joel Bulger (Division 6), Allen Eastman (Division 7), Brian de Jong (Division 8), Molly Douglass (Division 9) and Lionel Juss (Division 10). The Agricultural Service Board's mission is: "Working together we strive to guide viable growth and sustainability in the County of Newell byimplementing programs in areas of weed, pest and soil control as well as programs focused on sound agronomics and environmental stewardship." In fulfilling this mission, the Agricultural Service Board (ASB) undertakes a number of programs and services. Weed Control Weed control in the County is of primary concern. Whether it is for proper vegetation management on County owned properties or whether it is for prohibited noxious and noxious weed control. Invasive species of plants are a serious concern and a constant battle for ASB staff. In order for us to keep invasive species at bay, there are a number of programs undertaken to address these issues. The County employs four weed inspectors in order to monitor previously identified infestations as well as to find any new sites. The weed inspectors also undertake spraying of some of these sites, and offer help to ratepayers in the area of invasive species control. Weeds have many vectors for moving from place to place. Vectors that the ASB tries to control this spread on are the road network (highways and local - 680 miles sprayed in 2012), CPR mainline (66 miles), rivers (Bow River 60 miles, Red Deer River 50 miles). Major weeds of concern include but are not limited to: Downy Brome, Common Burdock, Showy and Common Milkweed, Yellow Toadflax, Scentless Chamomile and Canada Thistle. In an effort to improve weed inspecting efforts and to help out our urban municipalities, the County ASB partnered with Brooks, Bassano, Rosemary and Duchess for weed inspecting services. The ASB was also able to help control weeds in the public areas of these municipalities. 2012 marked the first year of the new City/County partnership for weed inspecting services. The program was well received and landowners in the City of Brooks gladly came on board to help make year one more successful than we could have ever imagined. Pest Control Many programs are implemented by the ASB to deal with pests such as Richardson Ground Squirrel, Coyotes, Skunks and Racoons. These programs include: Coyote Control Incentive Program (CCIP) (1798 coyotes) Held a Coyote Information Evening (135 participants) Trap Rentals Skunk/Racoon traps — 9 renters, 159 rental days, sold 2 new traps Magpie traps — 5 renters, 56 rental days, sold 3 new traps Issuance of pest control devices and products Ground Squirrel Control (239 Bottles of 2% Liquid Strychnine sold) Stored Grain Pests Control (9 flasks of Phostoxin sold) Other pest issues dealt with and monitored in annual surveys: Grasshoppers, Fusarium graminearum, Bacterial Ring Rot, and Clubroo Rats — Cypress County and the City of Medicine Hat battled a major rat infestation and we are happy to inform you that the County of Newell ASB helped out with their efforts. Used as a learning experience and labour resource, the ASB was able to send aid on 2 separate occasions at the Landfill and doing inspections. Mowing All local roads and areas in subdivisions and hamlets are mowed in order to complement weed control efforts, improve drainage, improve right of way safety and also for aesthetics. Over 3950 miles of road (one way) were mowed in 2012 and 420 hours were spent in hamlets, subdivisions, Brooks Regional Airport and the Bassano Regional airport. Emerson Bridge Park 2011 we collected $40, 658 in park registrations, in 2012 that increased to $46,212. We also continue to see a rise in campers from within the County. Bob and Dianne Green operated the day to day activities at the park and did a wonderful job; we are excited that they will be returning for the upcoming season. In 2012 we added a flush toilet washroom to the front registration PAGE 8 j—W area and eliminated another outhouse from the front. The flush toilets are much easier to keep clean and we received a lot of positive feedback. We completed the irrigation system for the park. Unfortunately, it took us until the end of August to get it up and running completely but it is ready to go for the 2013 camping season. Environmental Programming When the Environmental programming grant changed its structure, so did the ASB. The current Assistant Agricultural Fieldman oversees environmental programming but the whole crew chips in to make the programs work. 2012 programming included: Shelterbelt Planting (1 sites, 800 trees planted by County, 30,045 trees were distributed to County residents, this includes trees planted by the County and Partners in Habitat Development) Environmental Farm plans — 1 completed Courses (Southern Alberta Grazing School for Women — 30participants) SACA Conference (282 attendees, 10 from the County of Newell) Three newsletter articles and various articles in local papers Rural Beautification Tour — 35 attendees Rental Equipment The Ag Service board has multiple rental units that can be used by ratepayers of the County. For a full list please check out the website. Rental units are charged out as close to cost recovery as possible. Usage for 2012 is as follows: Livestock Scale — 17 renters Chute and panels — 11 renters Calf Table — 4 renters Cattle Squeeze —2 renters Tag Reader — 1 renter Weed Wipe Sprayers (2) — 3 renters 3 Point Hitch Sprayer — 3 rentals Boomless S prayer — 2 renters Insecticide Sprayer— 1 rentals Brillion Seeders (2) — 8 renters, 530 acres No Till Drills (2) — 33 renters, 3081 acres Conventional Drill — 13 renters, 1650 acres Tandem Axle BBQ — 19 Users + Rodeo Week and County Functions Other activities in 2012 included the Calgary Stampede Farm Family Award, roadside seeding and various pest and agronomic recommendations. The ASB also partners with other organization in projects of mutual benefit. These partners include: Partners in Habitat Development, Alberta Conservation Association, Newell Regional Solid Waste Management Authority, Tillebrook Provincial Campground, Kinbrook Island Provincial Park, Canadian Pacific Railway, Volker Stevin, Alberta Infrastructure, the local oil and gas industry and other municipalities. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Agricultural Service Board members as well as staff (Todd Green, Holly White, Will Schaap, Harold Forrest, Kim Fleming and Keith Brooker), for their dedicated service. The ASB continues to be active in promoting and protecting agriculture. If you have concerns or require more information please feel free to contact the ASB office at 362-3266 or check out our website at www.countyofnewell.ab.ca. ASB related issues and concerns are dealt with at regular council meetings. For more information, visit our web site: countyofnewell.ab.ca/emerson-bridge-park