HomeMy WebLinkAbout2013 Annual Report - newspaper versionANNUAL REPORT
2013 COUNTY OF NEWELL
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ANNUALGENERAL MEETING
MAY 22, 2014 7:00 P.M.
COMMUNITY HALL ROLLING HILLS, AB
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REEVE'S REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDING 2012
by Molly Douglass, County of Newell Reeve
The 2014 Annual General Meeting marks another
year in the life and history of the County of Newell.
It provides an opportunity for Council and Staff to
reflect on the goals achieved, as well as what needs
remain to be addressed. Most importantly, it gives
our residents the opportunity to meet personally with
all of us, to ask questions, and to give suggestions
for solutions to those needs. In keeping with the
past two years' practice of moving our AGM into
the County, Rolling Hills is our host community on
Thursday, May 22.
Lastyear proved to be memorable in numerous ways.
Our 60th Anniversary was celebrated at the grand
opening of our new facility, at the same time as June
flood waters poured into many municipalities leaving
behind devastation never seen before in Southern
Alberta. 2013 was the year that terms for municipal
councillors were extended to four years. Our local
October election resulted in five new councillors
joining our Council team of ten. Tilley became part
of the County of Newell, giving up its status as an
independent municipality, with all parties involved
taking a rational approach not seen in many other
Alberta sites facing the same decision.
Our staff continued to carry out Council policy with
competence and cooperation in a positive, thoughtful
manner that supports all of our communities. Please
take time to look through this report to see the good
information they have provided for you.
The three purposes of local/municipal government
are written as part of the Municipal Government Act
of the Province of Alberta. These purposes are to
provide good government, to provide services, and to
develop and maintain safe and viable communities.
These are clear and simple guidelines that assist
councillors as decisions are made and also guide staff
as they carry out those decisions. Itis understandable
that with these purposes there is such a focus on
infrastructure. Historically public works has been the
major department within municipal government and
remains so today.
The County of Newell is an enviable place to call
home. Agriculture, energy, and tourism keep our
economy moving. Our location provides access to
transportation routes. Our landscape with its desert
to oasis extremes keeps life interesting - even more
so, if you include climate in that extreme. As prairie
residents in Canada, particularly here in Alberta, the
quality of life gives us much to celebrate.
Although municipalities are not mandated to have an
annual meeting, all of us on Council believe it is an
important function. Your ideas and suggestions are
welcomed.
VisitNewellxom
Newell Regional Tourism Association
MUNICIPAL PLANNING COMMISSION REPORT
by Alyce Wickert, Manager of Planning & Development
The Municipal Planning Commission (MPC) is the approval body for
subdivision and development decisions in the County of Newell. MPC
meets twice a month in the Council Chambers of the new County building.
The public is always welcome to attend both MPC and Council meetings.
If you wish to address a concern or discuss a particular development
application, please contact County administration.
The County's primary planning and development tool is Land Use
Bylaw 1755-12. It is used by MPC and the Planning and Development
Department to direct, regulate, and support ongoing use and development
of land in the County. The Land Use Bylaw may be downloaded from the
County website (www.countyofnewell.ab.ca) or purchased at the County
office.
In terms of planning and development activity in 2013, 17 subdivisions
were approved in the County, down from previous years. In 2012,
23 subdivisions were approved; 30 in 2011; 29 in 2010. The 2013
subdivisions can be broken down into the following categories:
5 Farmstead Separations (14 in 2012) — 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 (3 in 2012) — the boundary of an existing
subdivision is adjusted or corrected;
4 Acreage lots (2 in 2012) — may include a dwelling or may be vacant;
often resold as acreages;
2 Commercial (1 in 2012)
1 Multi -lot Residential — Bantry Bay Estates (105 residential lots)
A total of 124 development permits were issued in 2013. In 2012,
this number was 114, up from 82 in 2011. Of the 124 permits, 87
were residential (85 in 2012). This category includes new dwellings,
replacement dwellings, manufactured or modular homes, additions,
accessory buildings and other structures related to residential use. Home
Occupations accounted for 7 permits (5 in 2012). Finally, 30 (24 in 2012)
permits were for Commercial or Industrial purposes.
The Planning and Development department has been accredited to
issue construction permits since July 2011. In cooperation with Park
Enterprises, the contracted inspection agency, construction permits have
been issued as follows:
The Municipal Planning Commission is assisted by Planning and
Development department staff. Development Permit and Construction
Permit questions may be directed to Shanna Lee Simpson, Development
Clerk. Subdivision questions and other planning and development
questions or concerns may be directed to Alyce Wickert, Manager of
Planning and Development. 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.
For further information about Planning and Development in the County,
please go to the website www.countyofnewell.ab.ca.
PAGE 2 COUNTY OF NEWELL - 2013 ANNUAL REPORT
250
200
150
100
50
0
Building: Electrical Gas Plumbing Private
Sewage
■ 2012
90 202 81 51 21
■ 2013
76 169 L 78 48 22
The Municipal Planning Commission is assisted by Planning and
Development department staff. Development Permit and Construction
Permit questions may be directed to Shanna Lee Simpson, Development
Clerk. Subdivision questions and other planning and development
questions or concerns may be directed to Alyce Wickert, Manager of
Planning and Development. 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.
For further information about Planning and Development in the County,
please go to the website www.countyofnewell.ab.ca.
PAGE 2 COUNTY OF NEWELL - 2013 ANNUAL REPORT
SUMMARIZED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE COUNTY OF NEWELL
For the Year Ending December 31, 2013
The accompanying summarized financial information represents only excerpts derived from the audited financial statement of
the County of Newell as at December 31, 2013.
Those individuals interested in the County's financial position, results of operations and cash flows are encouraged to read the
complete 2013 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, 2013, with comparative information for 2012
2013
Financial assets:
$ 7,622,505
Cash and cash equivalents (note 2)
$ 24,824,788
Taxes and grants in place of taxes receivable (note 3)
1,116,368
Trade and other receivables
8,334,254
Land held for resale
35,139
Investments (note 4)
33,292,357
Notes receivable (note 5)
5,005,001
Other financial assets
24,921
Bank charges and short-term interest
72,632,828
Financial liabilities:
596 MPC/AM/E=
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
5,222,960
Employee benefit obligations (note 7)
362,731
Unearned revenue (note 8)
1,468,140
Long-term debt- operating (note 9)
3,828,867
Long-term debt -capital (note 10)
20,449,278
Provision for landfill closure and post -closure costs (note 11)
337,897
Provlslon for gravel pit closure and post -closure costs (note 11)
315,376
Deposit liabilities (note 2)
235,084
Other financial liabilities
-
32,220,333
Net financial assets 40,412,495
Non-financial assets:
$ 7,622,505
Prepaid expenses
38,460
Tangible Capital Assets (note 6)
179,395,313
Inventory for consumption
1,608,875
Materials, goods, supplies and utilities
181,042,648
Contingent liabilities (note 20)
2,495,296
Accumulated surplus (note 12)
$221,455,143
Expenses by object:
2,530,290
Bank charges and short-term interest
Budget 2013
2012
$ 24,544,459
890,911
6,258,580
35,139
35,901,728
5,920,763
73,551,580
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
2013 MUNICIPAL EXPENSES
Fre/Bylaw/Disaster
Services/Corp Sa (ery
68%
MPC/ASB/Em Dev /Mini
bus
89%
Airport Legl9znVe/Gen,,,l
04% 18%
I M
P.M, W.,ks/Shop
469%
2013 MUNICIPAL REVENUE
86,082 fire/aNaw/o�san� ae4Lba y/Ecss Omer
156,681,903 sp,,,i,,,/C.rp �resy� �920%
1,122,799 t es96
157,890,784 ...
1951
$200,444,087
2012
Salaries, wages and benefits
$ 7,622,505
$ 6,814,669
$ 6,626,248
Contracted and general services
5,451,789
4,949,447
3,829,256
Materials, goods, supplies and utilities
4,896,079
4,007,534
2,495,296
Transfers to organizations
2,907,566
4,186,278
2,530,290
Bank charges and short-term interest
600
830
596 MPC/AM/E=
Interest on long-term debt
681,840
630,708
442,926
Other expenditures
22,500
125,926
280,509 2'
Amortization
5,518,066
4,422,416
3,896,602
$27,100,945
$25,137,808
$20,101,723
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AGENDA
May 22, 2014 beginning at 7:00 p.m.
Location: Rolling Hills Community Hall
1. Welcome & Introductions
2. Approval of the Minutes of the 2012 Annual
General Meeting
3. Presentations
4. Round Table Discussions
5. Question & Answer Period
Photo (right): On June 21, 2013, we held an official Grand
Opening Ceremony for our new facilities. Several past
Councillors and members of the public were there to help us
celebrate.
Photograph by A. Malik
Administration
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COUNTY OF NEWELL — 2013 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 3
SUMMARIZED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE COUNTY OF NEWELL
For the Year Ending December 31, 2013
Net municipal property taxes:
Taxation
Real property taxes
L, near property taxes
Government grants in place of property
taxes
Requisitions
Alberta School Foundation Fund
Newell Foundation
Net municipal property taxes
Budget 2013 2012
$ 13,705,039 $ 13,651,062 $ 12,942,564
26,540,054 26,508,789 25,407,884
293,178 304,537 221,111
40,538,271 40,464,388 38,571,559
12,196,492 12,204,007 11,733, 419
776,452 776,452 664,049
12,972,944 12,980,459 12,397,468
$ 27,565,327 $ 27,483,929 $ 26,174,091
2013 PROPERTY TAXES
,�omm�a 21
Disclosure of salaries and benefits for elected municipal officials and the chief administrative
officer as required by provincial regulation is as follows 2013 ALLOCATION OF PROPERTY TAX
2013 2012 Christ the
Benefits & Redeemer S.D. #3_ Alberta School
Salary (1) Allowances (2) Total Total
Council
Division 1 $ 27,630 $ 4,722 $ 32,352 $ 37,470
Droision2 28,720 1,311 30,031 28,105
Division 3 30,293 4,826 35,119 39,392
Division 4 20,391 1,197 21,588 23,395
Division 5 23,646 1,695 25,341 24,059
Division 6 26,455 3,937 30,392 28,976
Division 7 28,065 4,725 32,790 34,238
Division 8 30,323 1,400 31,723 31,879
Division 9 44,215 1,988 46,203 49,935
Division 10 26,805 4,690 31,495 33,111 Municipa
$ 286,543 $ 30,491 $ 317,034 $ 330,560 67.92%
Chief Administrative Officer $ 197,931 $ 42,205 $240,136 $ 229,602
1) Salary includes regular base pay, bonuses, overtime, lump sum payments, gross honorana
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
ndation
9.65%
=_II Foundation
1.92%
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PAGE COUNTY OF NEWELL - 2013 ANNUAL REPORT
MUNIUMIL atnfflUta ntrun i
by Mark Harbicht, Director of Municipal Services
Was 2013 a successful year for the Municipal
Services Department? As you will see in the
highlights below, the County is advancing the quality
of life for residents through numerous projects
lead by the Municipal Services Department. Let us
review...
Regional Water Pipeline Project
Newell Regional Services Corporation (NRSC)
continues to work with the bonding company to
resolve all deficient work in the regional water
pipeline project. Upon completion, delivery of
potable water from the Brooks Treatment Plant
to Rosemary and Bassano will be possible,
completing the Regional Pipeline Network. In
addition to servicing the urban municipalities, the
regional water pipeline will feed the County of
Newell Water Project (CNWP), delivering water to
rural residents and businesses.
County of Newell Water Project (CNWP)
The County of Newell Water Project is on schedule
to be completed by 2015 year end. The following
is a brief update highlighting progress, including
2014 and 2015 expectations.
• Duchess (Div. 8) - The first user on the
pipeline was activated on January 22, 2013,
and at March 31, 2014 there were 113 of a
possible 190 locations receiving water.
• Rolling Hills (Div. 1) - The first user on the
pipeline was activated on July 4, 2013, and at
March 31, 2014 there were 52 of a possible 95
locations receiving water.
• Tilley (Div. 2) - The first user on the pipeline
was activated on October 11, 2013, and at
March 31, 2014 there were 31 of a possible
180 locations receiving water.
• Kinbrook Island (Div. 2) - The first user on the
pipeline was activated on May 10, 2013, and
at March 31, 2014 there were 19 of a possible
33 locations receiving water. Through this
contract the County is also supplying potable
water to Alberta Parks for use at their facilities
on Kinbrook Island.
• North Brooks (Div. 10) - Contract work is
80% complete as of March 3, 2014. Expected
completion is the fall of 2014, with activation
of water services immediately following. Once
complete, this line will service 265 locations.
• Rosemary (Div. 7) — Pipe installation was
completed in February of 2014. Disinfection
and flushing of lines has yet to take place and
is dependent upon the NRSC regional water
pipeline completion. Once commissioned this
line will service 103 locations.
• Patricia (Div. 3) — The contract was awarded
in July 2013. Pipeline installation commenced
fall 2013 and is anticipated to be completed in
fall 2014. Following that, standard procedures
for disinfection and flushing of lines will take
place before activation of services. Once
complete, this line will service 84 locations.
• Cassils (Div. 5) - The contract was awarded
in November 2013. Pipeline installation
commenced fall 2013 and is anticipated
to be completed in spring 2015. Following
that, standard procedures for disinfection well received by rate payers with participation in
and flushing of lines will take place before the land acquisition process greater than ever in
activation of services. Once complete, this the first few weeks. That speaks volumes for the
line will service 283 locations. understanding everyone is developing regarding
th b f't f th' rt h'
Scandia/Rainier (Div. 4) — This contract is
in pipeline design phase with anticipated
tendering to occur in spring 2014. Pending
tender award, construction could start as early
as fall 2014.
Bassano (Div. 6) - This contract is nearing
pipeline design phase. Tendering of work
is anticipated to take place in summer
2014. Pending tender schedule and award,
construction could start as early as fall 2014.
Gem (Div. 9) — This contract will enter into
pipeline design phase following the tendering
of Bassano. It is anticipated that tendering and
award will take place in early 2015.
AMWWP Water Distribution Upgrade Projects
The County has been working in the Hamlets
of Patricia, Rolling Hills and Scandia to see the
water distribution pump houses upgraded, using
government grant and local funding sources.
The pumps/pump headers, electronic monitoring,
and back-up generation systems are expected to
be completed in spring 2014. Grant funding has
allowed the County to replace many of the outdated
systems in the former water treatment plants. The
upgrading to new equipment will provide more
dependable and efficient systems.
Wastewater Treatment - Lift Stations and
Treatment Facilities
The planned improvements at the Rolling Hills
facility are nearing completion. The pivot is erected
on the grazing lands for broadcasting of effluent,
with water and power services to be complete
before the irrigating season.
For the past couple of years the County actively
sought new lands for the relocation of the Patricia
Lagoon facilities. In December of 2013 the County
and Hamlet Advisory agreed to forfeit monies
awarded through the AMWWP program due to
the inability to secure lands in close proximity to
allow affordable upgrades for the community. The
County will continue to operate the wastewater
collection and treatment system as it is today, a
gravity collection system with single cell treatment.
The Hamlet of Rolling Hills expressed desires to
move away from its pressurized sewer system to
a gravity collection system; however, engineers
have estimated the work to cost upwards of $4.7
million dollars. The County will seek grant funding
in hopes that local shares are affordable for
residents.
EID/County Partnership on Drainage
This Partnership, now in its fourth year, continues
with improvements of $2 million annually ($1 million
each party), as approved by El Board and County
Council. Completed projects now include Cassils
(2011 - 15.2 Km's), Rolling Hills (2012 - 36.8 Km's),
and most recently Scandia (2013 — 33 Km's). 2014
improvements are scheduled in Rainier where
55 Km's of roadside drainage improvements are
planned. To date, the Rainier project is being
e ene i s o is pa ners ip.
Paved Road Capital Program
The Paved Road Capital Plan remains unchanged.
Paving of R15-5 from Highway 1 north to Hwy 550
was not completed last fall. However, it will be
completed in early summer 2014. New projects
for 2014 are limited to the overlay of the Kinbrook
Island access road.
Paving projects scheduled for 2015 include the
overlay of the East ScandiaAccess, and the paving
of all of this hamlet's streets. Additional paving
projects are planned in our long term capital plan.
Timing of projects is subject to available funding.
Additional Projects
Afew more successes that took time and effort of the
Municipal Services team involved the collaborative
dissolution of the Village of Tilley. Acomprehensive
review of underground infrastructure identified
major constraints and immediate needs of systems.
At a public meeting in February of 2014, Tilley
residents supported more than $3 million dollars
of improvements to water distribution pipes and
wastewater collection systems. Work is expected
to be completed in 2014. Under County jurisdiction
the improvement costs to residents have not
increased the living expense to residents of Tilley
to any significant degree. In essence, residents
will benefit from new systems for the same annual
costs as experienced before under Village status.
This is a major milestone for Tilley as new systems
will give life to the Hamlet. Similarly, but one step
ahead, the Hamlet of Scandia is nearing complete
revitalization. Upon completion of the County's road
paving for 2015, Scandia will have successfully
improved and upgraded all underground and
surface infrastructures. It will continue to be an
attractive place to live.
Municipal Enforcement
The Supervisor and Officer have worked to
provide education about local bylaws to improve
the quality of life for residents, ensuring Newell is a
safe community in which to live. The two member
team actively patrol roads, including the Villages of
Duchess and Rosemary, the Town of Bassano, as
well as campgrounds and EID lands.
I want to express my gratitude to our dedicated
team of supporting managers and staff.
Accomplishments occur through all of us working
together. It iswithin the team that goals are realized.
Thank you to those consultants and contractors
who have worked alongside us, seeing us through
necessary improvements and upgrades of our
annual programs and services. A special thanks
to the Eastern Irrigation District and their skilled
team for their collaborative efforts to improve the
quality of life for residents. To County Council and
the CAO, 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 2014, its challenges and our successes.
COUNTY OF NEWELL - 2013 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 5
2012 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING MINUTES
May 21, 2013
The 2012 Annual Meeting of the County of Newell was held at the Community Hall in Patricia, AB on Tuesday, May 21, 2013 commencing at 7:02 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT:
STAFF PRESENT:
M Douglass, Reeve
K Stephenson, Chief Administrative Officer
C Amulung
L Johnson, Assistant Administrator
I Schroeder
M Harbicht, Superintendent of Public Works
A M Philipsen
G Tiffin, Technical Manager
M Nesbitt
T Green, Agricultural Fieldman
J Bulger
A Wickert, Development Control Officer
A Eastman
D Horvath, County Planner- ORRSC
B de Jong
A Nielsen, Executive Assistant
L Juss
26 ratepayers were in attendance for the 2012 Annual Meeting of the County of Newell
Reeve M Douglass called the meeting to order at 7 02 p m
1. Welcome & Introductions
The Reeve welcomed everyone to the meeting and introduced the Councillors and staff
in attendance
Presentations
a. Presentation of 2012 Year End Audited Financial Statements & Financial
Overview
The Chief Administrative Officer presented the 2012 Year End Audited Financial
Statements and Annual Report document He indicated that financial assets have
increased, primarily due to additional funds in investments at year end Liabilities
have also increased, as the County of Newell borrowed funding to proceed
with the County of Newell Water Project (CNWP) He provided further details
regarding the debenture interest rate versus investments He also indicated that
funding from the provincial Municipal Sustainability Initiative had been allocated
towards the Regional Water Project, the CNWP, construction of the new County
facilities, and drainage projects He gave an overview of the assets purchased
in 2012, which include items for the CNWP, new facilities, and equipment
The accumulated surplus is $146 million and there are currently $50 million in
reserves. This has increased due to assessment, investments, and revenue from
the CNWP Operational expenses have decreased to $20 million since last year
due to a reduction in the amount of contracted services and personnel budget
The Chief Administrative Officer indicated that, compared with other similar
municipalities, the County has lower costs He noted that the County's Finance
Department was awarded the Canadian Award for Financial Reporting from the
Government Finance Officers Association last year He indicated that the County's
website has been rebuilt and invited feedback from ratepayers. He also provided
an overview of the Newell Systems Integration Project, which is anticipated to be
complete by the end of 2014
The Chief Administrative Officer acknowledged the Government of Alberta for
provincial funding received for the CNWP He thanked Council for providing
leadership and guidance and County staff who work hard to provide excellent
service He indicated that overall service levels are good and requested input
from ratepayers regarding areas for improvement
b. County of Newell Water Project Update
The Technical Manager provided an update on the CNWP, which started in 2011
The project is complete in Division 8 and they are currently delivering water to
65 members there The next area was Rolling Hills, which started in February
of 2012 and they hope to be providing water by the end of the month The Tilley
contract will be next and they hope to deliver water by the end of June 2013 This
contract will include the pipeline to Kinbrook Island Park The Brooks North and
Rosemary projects will also be started this year, followed by Division 3 Scandia,
Bassano, and Gem are scheduled for 2015 The Technical Manager introduced
Joe Harrington, Agricultural Water Specialist
c. Growing Forward Water Program
J Harrington provided background information on the Growing Forward program
This program is partofthe Farm Water Management Program and makes funding
available to farmers who are developing water sources They provide technical
and financial assistance for developing the water infrastructure in the province In
orderto qualify, the applicant mustfirst complete a Long Term Water Management
Plan (LTWMP) J Harrington outlined some standard incentive projects, which
include wells, dugouts, spring development, and deep pipelines These projects
are eligible for funding in the amount of one third of expenses to a maximum of
$5,000 00 He indicated that the program started on April 2, 2013 and will run
until March 15, 208 He noted that special incentive projects, such as tying into
community pipelines like the CNWP, are eligible for funding in the amount of one
half of expenses to a specified maximum per applicant or project
J Harrington gave an overview of the application procedure Forms are available
online or by calling 310 -FARM Staff will assist the applicant in preparing the
LTWMP, as there are certain required criteria, and this is submitted along with
an environmental checklist Once the application has been approved, the
applicant can proceed with the project and, when the project has been completed,
the applicant can apply for the grant. J Harrington displayed the web site and
indicated other programs of interest, including the Irrigation Efficiency Program
Those in attendance were given the opportunity to ask questions A ratepayer
asked if this provides a third option to the portions of the CNWP that are already
subsidized by the County and the EID. J Harrington replied that this program will
provide funding for things that the County and EID will not, such as trenching from
the utility right of way to the residence or installing a cistern.
d. Stormwater & Drainage Projects
The Superintendent of Public Works provided an overview of drainage projects
completed in the past few years in Patricia and Scandia Drainage work in Rolling
Hills is also nearing completion He indicated that they are in the process of
completing hamlet storm drainage and infrastructure plans The Superintendent
of Public Works gave an overview of the drainage partnership with the Eastern
Irrigation District, indicating that both parties have contributed about $1 million
towards the project As the EID controls the receiving basins where water is to be
diverted, it is beneficial to work in partnership with the County on the program He
OTHERS PRESENT:
M Coles, MPE Engineering Ltd
J Harrington, Alberta Agriculture & Rural Development
MEDIA PRESENT:
S Stanway, Brooks Bulletin
A Declercq, Brooks Bulletin
M Dumont, Brooks & County Chronicle
gave an update on the project in Cassils, which has received positive feedback
There was also 36km of roadside drainage work completed in Rolling Hills last
year This year, 46 5 km of drainage work is scheduled in the Scandia area He
noted that ratepayers in Scandia have realized the benefits in areas where work
has been completed and are accommodating future work The Superintendent of
Public Works indicated that the County had met with the EID to discuss increasing
the project budget in order to complete work sooner
Question &Answer Period
Reeve M Douglass opened the floor for questions
A ratepayer cited an incident involving a plugged sewer and asked what costs were
covered by the County. The Superintendent of Public Works replied that it would
depend what side of the property line the problem is on If the problem is found on
public property, Newell Regional Services Corporation will investigate the problem and
invoice the County.
A ratepayer asked about the new water billing schedule and whether or not bills could
be paid online The Assistant Administrator provided an explanation of the billing
schedule, which has changed from one bill per year to bi-monthly bills He indicated
that he would look into the details regarding online bill payments The Assistant
Administrator responded to further questions regarding the water billing schedule,
indicating that, previously, the bill sent to ratepayers in July/August covered the entire
year The County is now sending out a bill every other month that applies to service
provided in the previous two months
A ratepayer indicated that he and some other ratepayers on Sligo Street had been
told by Metercor that they were unable to install water meters at their residences The
Assistant Administrator indicated that 2013 is a transition period The goal is to install
water meters for all hamlet properties receiving water and sewer service He indicated
that the contractor should make arrangements to install the meters at a later date if
they are unable to install them during their first visit The Technical Manager provided
further information, indicating that, if there isn't a meter at the house, the contractor
will be required to install a water shut off valve He indicated that they do plan to
have curbstops installed in all hamlets The Technical Manager responded to further
questions
A ratepayer asked about a drainage issue on his property, indicating that he could install
a barrier but that would cause flooding on adjacent properties Reeve M Douglass
indicated that she would discuss this issue with him after the meeting
A ratepayer thanked Council for the paved road past his farm but noted some flood
damage that occurred recently The Superintendent of Public Works made a note of
this and will follow up after the meeting
A ratepayer inquired about the local improvement tax hamlet residents must pay for
upgrades to the pump system and piping. She indicated that residents were still paying
for the old pumphouse when it had been removed and asked what happened to it
The Technical Manager provided background information on this item, indicating that
the County had applied for funding under the Alberta Municipal Water/Wastewater
Partnership to cover water distribution system upgrades for all hamlet water treatment
plants The improvements were completed after the regional water pipeline was
installed and the treatment plants have been decommissioned as repressurized sites.
He gave an overview of the upgrades to all hamlet water treatment plants, indicating
that 75% of the cost is funded through the AMWWP program. The County applies
for grant funding where it is available, but the remainder of the costs are paid by the
ratepayers via a local improvement tax
A ratepayer asked what had happened to the equipment that had been removed when
the water treatment plant had been decommissioned. They also expressed concerns
with the local improvement notification process, indicating that they were not aware of
it The Superintendent of Public Works provided background information, indicating
that the grant funding application was submitted in 2008 and was only approved last
year The local improvement tax was advertised as per the Municipal Government Act
requirements and circulated to property owners by mail He indicated that no response
was received in opposition to the local improvement He invited the ratepayer to
discuss this issue further after the meeting
A ratepayer expressed concerns with road conditions, noting that the issue had been
brought up at a recent Hamlet Advisory Committee meeting The Superintendent of
Public Works urged those in attendance to call the office so that their complaints can
be properly recorded and addressed The Chief Administrative Officer suggested
that another meeting of the Hamlet Advisory Committee should be held, expressing
concerns with a communication gap The Hamlet Advisory Committee is the liaison
between the hamlet residents and the County.
A ratepayer asked about the possibility of making farmers responsible for weed
control The Agricultural Fieldman indicated that the County has three seasonal weed
inspectors that control noxious and prohibited noxious weeds on roadsides under the
Weed Control Act The weed inspectors also try to enforce the act on landowners,
most often by talking to the landowner and helping them find solutions Rarely, weed
notices are issued The ratepayer expressed concerns about thistles specifically and
the Agricultural Fieldman replied that, while thistle is not considered a noxious weed,
they are aware of the problem. He suggested that ratepayers can call the office with
complaints and weed inspectors will investigate
PAGE COUNTY OF NEWELL - 2013 ANNUAL REPORT
2012 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING MINUTES
May 21, 2013
A ratepayer asked for an update on the Highway 873 Access Management Plan
Reeve M Douglass replied that Council had accepted that report as information The
Superintendent of Public Works provided background information on the study, indicating
that the County is concerned about the reduction of useable agricultural land in favour
of the installation of service roads A letter was sent to Alberta Transportation indicating
that Council was not in favour of the study and invited any further options
A ratepayer indicated that, years ago, County Council received a letter from Darrell
Camplin indicating that the stop sign on the RR 144 north of Rosemary could be
removed if and when the traffic going east -west on the road increased He suggested
that Highway 873 be extended 8 miles north and that it be traded for Highway 550
through Duchess and paved so thatthe infrastructure is tied together Then the stop sign
could be removed Reeve M. Douglass suggested that the ratepayer could discuss the
matter further with Councillor A Eastman
A ratepayer indicated that they had called the County Office twice in the past three
weeks and the staff member they were trying to reach has not responded The Chief
Administrative Officer indicated that he would look into the issue, as it is possible thatthe
automated phone system requires adjustment He further reiterated that if rate payers
are having trouble reaching anyone atthe County to please give him a direct call at 794-
2325 and he will make sure the connection is made
2. Approval of the Minutes of the 2012 Annual Meeting
MOVED BY ART ECKERT that the 2012 Annual Meeting minutes be adopted as
presented.
MOTION CARRIED
5. Adjourn
Reeve M Douglass adjourned the meeting at 8 27 p m
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COUNTY OF NEWELL - 2013 ANNUAL REPORT PAGE 7
by Todd Green, Agricultural Fieldman
The present Agricultural Service Board (ASB) is comprised of ten elected
Mowing
members and six full time staff representatives. The ten elected officials sitting
All local roads and areas in subdivisions and hamlets are mowed in order
on the board include Clarence Amulung (Division 1), Gordon Simpson (Division
to complement weed control efforts, improve drainage, improve right of way
2), Anne Marie Philipsen (Division 3), Wayne Hammergren (Division 4) Tracy
safety and also for aesthetics. Over 3950 miles of road (one way) were mowed
Fyfe (Division 5), Kelly Christman (Division 6), Ellen Unruh (Division 7), Brian
in 2013 and 470 hours were spent in hamlets, subdivisions, Brooks Regional
de Jong (Division 8), Molly Douglass (Division 9) and Lionel Juss (Division 10).
Airport and the Bassano Regional airport.
The Agricultural Service Board's mission is
"Working together we strive to guide viable growth and sustainability in the
County of Newell by implementing 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
— 655 miles sprayed), CPR Mainline (66 miles), Rivers (Bow and Red Deer
(Could not do because of flood))
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. 2013 marked the
second season for the City/County partnership for weed inspecting services.
The program continues to grow and landowners in the City of Brooks are taking
onus for their weed control and helping to make this program a huge success
story.
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) (1802 coyotes)
Trap Rentals — Skunk/Racoon traps — 12 renters, 213 rental days, sold 2
new traps
Magpie traps — 4 renters, 120 rental days, sold 3 new traps
Issuance of pest control devices and products
Ground Squirrel Control (119 Bottles of 2% Liquid Strychnine sold)
Stored Grain Pests Control (6 flasks of Phostoxin sold)
Emerson Bridge Park
2012 we collected $40, 658 in park registrations; in 2013 we collected
$35,194.40 in park registrations. The significant decrease in registrations
collected was due to closing the park for a month and a half as a result of the
flood and subsequent clean up. 2013 saw the removal of the old registration
building and construction of a new building with storage for firewood and the
maintenance equipment. We had to do a fairly extensive clean-up after the
flood but there was no significant damage.
Environmental Programming
2013 programming included:
Shelterbelt Planting -140 boxes of trees were distributed to County of
Newell residents
Environmental Farm plans -2 completed
Courses (Southern Alberta Grazing School for Women — 36 participants,
held in Foremost )
SACA Conference (300 attendees, 14 from the County of Newell)
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 2013 is as follows:
Livestock Scale — 16 ren"...
Chute and panels — 8 renters
Calf Table — 2 renters
Cattle Squeeze —2 renters
Tag Reader — 1 renter
Weed Wipe Sprayers (2) — 1 renters
3 Point Hitch Sprayer — 2 rentals
Boomless Sprayer — 4 renters
Brillion Seeders (2) — 3 renters, 215 acres
No Till Drills (2) — 26 renters, 1675 acres
Conventional Drill — 11 renters, 1615 acres
• Tandem Axle BBQ — 130 Users + Rodeo Week and County Functions
Other activities in 2013 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
Other pest issues dealt with and monitored in annual surveys: have concerns or require more information please feel free to contact the ASB
Grasshoppers, Fusarium graminearum, Bacterial Ring Rot, and Clubroot 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.
PAGE COUNTY OF NEWELL - 2013 ANNUAL REPORT