tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54349133755937114912024-03-04T23:15:06.830-08:00Clearwater County Taxpayers AssociationWorking together for a common good
Helgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15857576040483926335noreply@blogger.comBlogger149125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434913375593711491.post-45412728502989395712024-02-20T15:51:00.000-08:002024-02-20T15:51:15.514-08:00IN THE NEWS<p><span style="font-size: medium;">By Marianne Cole</span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">County/Caroline Amalgamation</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Two joint meetings of councils of the whole were recently held on January 25th and 26th. There was significant discussion with a variety of opinions expressed on several topics. Of special note were the following:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Formation date As mentioned before, January 1, 2025 is the proposed date for amalgamation to occur. In order for that to happen a report has to be submitted from our councils to the Minister of Municipal Affairs 6 months in advance. It has been repeatedly said that this is a very tight timeline for gathering information, developing a draft report, and offering public engagement opportunities before the final report is written and submitted to the Minister. Alternate ideas of postponing the formation date were brought forward but in the end a motion was passed to move on with the January 1st date.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Interim Council An interim council would be formed to deal with the operations of the “new amalgamated” municipality. This temporary council would operate from January 1, 2025 until municipal elections are held in the fall of 2025. Again, significant discussion took place on the possible number of members on that council and how those numbers would be allocated. Suggestions were made that it be an uneven number and perhaps a smaller group than the current 12 members from both councils. Another concern of “equality” of representation was raised, comparing one county councillor representing 1800 residents versus 5 Caroline councillors representing 500 people. After representatives from Municipal Affairs joined the meeting to offer advice and answer questions, a motion passed to proceed with all members of current councils making up the interim council.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Appointment of Chief Elected Official (Reeve) A motion was passed that an organization meeting of the Interim Council be held on January 7, 2025 and the “Reeve” be chosen at that time.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Bylaws and Enforcement (Operational) Aside from maintaining the current bylaws this agenda item provided two options of enforcement: 1. No change. Keep things as is. 2. Increase the number of CPO’s (County Police Officers) from the current number of 4 to 5 to offset the additional services required. Again significant discussion took place. First a motion to support Option 2 was defeated. More discussion ensued and finally a decision was made to support Option 1.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Throughout the meetings other items of discussion included maintaining library services in Caroline, accepting current bylaws and resolutions of both jurisdictions and maintaining current emergency services.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Of interest, the minutes of the earlier January 5th and 6th meetings recorded significantly more time spent in camera than in open session--- approximately 1 hour open to 2 hours in closed session for each </span><span style="font-size: large;">meeting. Also noted in the minutes was that the councils struck the original idea of holding of a public survey re amalgamation, and proposed public engagement dates are yet to be determined.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">PAC </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The Public Advisory Committee formed to assist with the gathering of public opinion during the re-write of the Land Use Bylaw (LUB) held their second meeting on Tuesday, January 30, 2024. While the agenda for that meeting had been originally proposed to review the definition section of the current LUB, the focus changed to reviewing the committee’s roles and responsibilities and focussing on discussing comments on what concerns we have heard to date.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">While “Stakeholder Group” meetings were part of the original plan of action in this review process, none have been held to date. The suggested Stakeholder Groups would include agriculture, aggregate groups, oil/gas industry representatives, and various other groups involved with tourism, realtors, and small business.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Round table comments noted the concerns committee members have heard, regularly sharing those comments, restrictive rules, direct controls districts and emergency situations, rules related to seacans, confined feeding operation definition, fencing restrictions, and the need for more meetings.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">No date was set for the next meeting. It is very important that people express their opinions/concerns on the Land Use Bylaw. This can be done by contacting your councillor or going on the county’s website, searching the Land Use Bylaw Rewrite or going on the following website: clearwatercounty.ca/p/land-use-bylaw-rewrite.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">SPECIAL UP-COMING FUNDRAISER</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The CCTA is planning a St. Patrick’s Day themed fund raiser for Saturday, March 16, 2024. The event will be held at the Leslieville Community Hall, starting with a roast beef supper at 6:30PM and followed by entertainment at 8:00PM, showcasing Ben Crane and his daughter. There will also be a silent auction and 50-50 ticket draw. Tickets for the event cost $30.00 each and may be purchased from any one of the following Board Members: Marianne Cole (403)729-2493; Ron Schultz (403)846-1523; Susan Durand (403)729-2585; Pat Butler (403)729-2455; Jim Foesier (403)844-8088; Debbie Gastonguay (403)845-6922; Tim Plante (403)846-3059; Leah Schultz (403)850-7533; Reg Belyea (780)554-9631. We welcome you and encourage you to bring your friends to this amazing, fun-filled evening.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Coming Events:</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Wednesday, February 14, 2024 and Wednesday, March 13, 2024, 7:30PM, Regular Monthly Meetings at the Arbutus Community Hall</i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Saturday, March 16, 2024, St. Patrick’s Day themed fund raiser. Doors open at 5:30PM; roast beef supper at 6:30PM; entertainment with Ben Crane and his daughter at 8:00PM; silent auction and 50-50 ticket sales throughout the evening.</i></span></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: medium;"> “Love is something sent from heaven to worry the hell out of you.” <i>Dolly Parton</i> </span></p><p><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: medium;"> “The giving of love is an education in itself.” <i>Eleanor Roosevelt</i></span></p>Helgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15857576040483926335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434913375593711491.post-38296966337948292112024-02-20T14:22:00.000-08:002024-02-20T14:22:14.075-08:00<br /><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKR-AN0NgyVv4hRWdJMAdruZDz-H0yINC5q7-x_h1kmRnbhlD3MGP1EeGxcJS8sB1BK8l1jgeC7olV_4NnChbWiopfE6lYtV39XAftRjFh2h4JizbKGNZlRAUOtixSswIZgJrmUkwnmNTy6Ay8ni3GhWm3PeZhphhSvbAkMJGWtW1adAHgOkB1LYv8ff0/s2550/Crane%20Poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2550" data-original-width="1650" height="606" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKR-AN0NgyVv4hRWdJMAdruZDz-H0yINC5q7-x_h1kmRnbhlD3MGP1EeGxcJS8sB1BK8l1jgeC7olV_4NnChbWiopfE6lYtV39XAftRjFh2h4JizbKGNZlRAUOtixSswIZgJrmUkwnmNTy6Ay8ni3GhWm3PeZhphhSvbAkMJGWtW1adAHgOkB1LYv8ff0/w409-h606/Crane%20Poster.jpg" width="409" /></a></div><p></p>Helgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15857576040483926335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434913375593711491.post-32042878080356333632024-01-07T17:41:00.000-08:002024-01-07T17:42:38.605-08:00IN THE NEWS<div style="border: 0px; color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">By Marianne Cole</span></b></div><div style="border: 0px; color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><br aria-hidden="true" /></span></b></div><div style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="color: #cfe2f3; font-size: medium;">2024 BUDGET</span></b></div><div style="border: 0px; color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Clearwater County Council approved the 2024 budget at a special council meeting on December 19,2023. Items of special note include:</span></div><div style="border: 0px; color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><ul><li><span style="font-size: medium;"><u>Operating revenues</u>. Potential revenue is slated to be $62,163,392, up $1,061,311 from the 2023 budget of $61,102,081. This would be a 1.7% increase.</span></li><li><span style="font-size: medium;"><u>Operating expenses.</u> These are budgeted to be $49,626,693, an increase of $2,019,592 or 4.2% over the 2023 budget of $47,607,101.</span></li><li><span style="font-size: medium;"><u>Capital expenditures</u> for 2024 are budgeted to be $40,366,896. No figures from 2023 were presented for a comparison.</span></li><li><span style="font-size: medium;">Where necessary, short falls in revenue will be covered through restricted surpluses.</span></li></ul><div style="border: 0px; color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: medium;">During discussion on the budget, questions were raised re a potential new fire hall in Caroline, road maintenance/improvement on the Beaver Flats, Taimi, Rainbow Ford, and Airport roads as well as future funding for seniors' housing.</span></div></div><div style="border: 0px; color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br aria-hidden="true" /></span></div><div style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="color: #cfe2f3; font-size: medium;">BROADBAND</span></b></div><div style="border: 0px; color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: medium;">This was a separate item of discaussion at the budget meeting. 2024 revenues are anticipated to be $350,000 while expenses are projected to be $2,086,972. this would be an increase in expenses of $648,371 or 45% over last year's budget of $1,438,602. A question was raised where the revenue would come from with a reply saying it comes from the ISP's (Internet Service Providers) not the end users.</span></div><div style="border: 0px; color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br aria-hidden="true" /></span></div><div style="border: 0px; color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: medium;">While not mentioned at the budget meeting it is interesting to note that the county has entered into a contract with Rigstar Industrial Telecom, a company based out of Calgary, to operate as the "Network Operator" for the county's broadband operations. According to information on the county's website, Rigstar, "together with Arcadis, stands at the forefront of managing Clearwater County's Open Access Network"... It is unclear what role Arcadis, a company based out of the Netherlands, has in this operation.</span></div><div style="border: 0px; color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br aria-hidden="true" /></span></div><div style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="color: #cfe2f3; font-size: medium;">COUNTY/CAROLINE AMALGAMATION</span></b></div><div style="border: 0px; color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Joint meetings of both county and village councils were held on December 4th and 5th, 2023. Decisions on the following matters were made:</span></div><div style="border: 0px; color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><ul><li><span style="font-size: medium;">The "new" municipality would continue with the same boundaries as are currently being used.</span></li><li><span style="font-size: medium;">The name would remain as is for Clearwater County but the village of Caroline would be known as the Hamlet of Caroline.</span></li><li><span style="font-size: medium;">The municipality's council would continue with 7 councillors, one for each division.</span></li><li><span style="font-size: medium;">The divisions would remain basically the same with the north side of Caroiline joining the county's Division 4 and the south side joining Division 6. Highway 54 would be the dividing line between the two.</span></li><li><span style="font-size: medium;">The amalgamated municipality office will remain at the county's current location and Rick Emmons will be the Chief Administrative Officer.</span></li></ul><div style="border: 0px; color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Concerns were again expressed regarding the potentially restrictive timeline, extra staff responsibilities, and maintaining current service levels.</span></div></div><div style="border: 0px; color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br aria-hidden="true" /></span></div><div style="border: 0px; color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Up-coming public engagement will involve in-person meetings in Leslieville and Caroline as well as a virtual/on-line meeting. In addition, a survey is being drafted and will be available on the county's website, the county and village offices, and potentially in local papers.</span></div><div style="border: 0px; color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br aria-hidden="true" /></span></div><div style="border: 0px; color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The next amalgamation meetings are scheduled for January 25th and 26th, 2024.</span></div><div style="border: 0px; color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br aria-hidden="true" /></span></div><div style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="color: #cfe2f3; font-size: medium;">UP-COMING EVENTS</span></b></div><div style="border: 0px; color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Regular Monthly CCTA Meetings</span></b></div><div style="border: 0px; color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Wednesday, January 10, 2024</span></b></div><div style="border: 0px; color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Wednesday, February 14, 2024</span></b></div><div style="border: 0px; color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">All at 7:30PM at the Arbutus Community Hall</span></b></div><div style="border: 0px; color: inherit; font: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br aria-hidden="true" style="background-color: white; color: #242424; font-family: "Segoe UI", "Segoe UI Web (West European)", "Segoe UI", -apple-system, "system-ui", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 15px;" /></div>Helgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15857576040483926335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434913375593711491.post-90000918620338997662023-12-01T11:07:00.000-08:002023-12-01T11:09:31.764-08:00IN THE NEWS<p><span style="font-size: medium;">By Marianne Cole</span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">CCTA ELECTS NEW BOARD MEMBERS </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">At their Annual General Meeting on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, the Clearwater County Taxpayers’ Association welcomed three new members as Directors, and two returning members switched positions. First time Directors include Leah Schultz from the Gimlet area, Debbie Gastonguay from Ferrier, and Reg Belyea from Nordegg. Switching positions were Ron Schultz from Director to Vice President and Tim Plante making the reverse switch. Returning to the Board are Marianne Cole as President, Susan Durand as Secretary, Pat Butler as Treasurer, and Jim Foesier as Director.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">We certainly welcome all new members and thank “retiring” Directors for their past service. We look forward to our continued efforts to “work together for the common good”.</span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: large;">COUNTY/CAROLINE AMALGAMATION </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Clearwater County Council and Caroline Village Council met together for an Amalgamation Committee meeting on November 2, 2023 to discuss matters related to the proposed amalgamation process. Most notable items of discussion included:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Timeline The current process proposal suggests that a decision be made by January 2025. Six months prior to that (June 2024) a report must be submitted to the Minister of Municipal Affairs stating the decision proposed by both councils. That leaves just 6 months to initiate public engagement/participation, a review of the information gathered from that, the writing of a summary report, and then have that report approved before sending it to the Minister.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Increased staff time and workload This whole process is a monumental task to be completed in 6 months. As such it will put significant strain on county staff to gather information from public engagement as well as on matters related to county and village operations. This information must be compiled, presented to the public as well as councils, and a draft document created before the final report is sent to the Minister. With that in mind, it is reasonable to expect the increased time spent on this process may result in a decrease in normal county services.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Consensus based decision As there is not equal representation on the Amalgamation Committee (5 councillors from Caroline versus 7 councillors from the County) decisions will be consensus based rather than determined by a vote.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Communication/Public Participation During discussion on this issue it was noted that it is very important for the pro’s and con’s of amalgamation to be communicated to the public. It was also mentioned that while there might be an occasional need for closed session meetings, that opportunity should not be abused. Open, transparent meetings are necessary to build trust. In addition it is hoped that public consultation meetings will be held in January.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The next meeting of the Amalgamation Committee will be held on December 5, 2023. It will be live streamed so you can attend/follow it on the County’s website.</span></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">LAND USE BYLAW REVIEW</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"> The first meeting of the Public Advisory Committee was held on Wednesday, November 22, 2023. The duty of this committee is to assist in the gathering of information/public opinion as the current Land Use Bylaw is reviewed and revised. The LUB is a very important document that guides and controls land use in the county. As such it stipulates:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· What you can and can’t do on your property</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· What types of activities are allowed in the various land use districts (e.g. agricultural, residential, commercial, etc.)</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· The processes related to development proposals</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Throughout the Kick Off events held earlier in the fall some common areas of concern focussed on:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Use of seacans</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Private camping activities/RV storage</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Home based businesses including child care provision</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Secondary suites/short term rentals</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Fragmentation</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Renewable energy developments</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Overall restrictiveness of the document</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">This is another very important issue facing county residents and it is crucial that your voice be heard. There is a special link on the count’s website (LUB@clearwatercounty.ca) or we encourage you to call your councillor or the county’s Planning Department to express your opinion/concerns.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The next meeting of PAC is January 10, 2024. We really need to hear from you.</span></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #b6d7a8; font-size: medium;"><b><i>“The true spirit of Christmas lies in your heart” Santa, The Polar Express</i></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #b6d7a8; font-size: medium;"><b><i>“Gifts of time and love are surely the basic ingredients of a truly Merry Christmas.” Peg Brachen</i></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #b6d7a8; font-size: medium;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;"><b><i>Coming Events:</i></b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b><i> Wednesday, January 10, 2024, 7:30PM; Wednesday, February 14, 2024, 7:30PM regular monthly meetings at Arbutus Community Hall</i></b></span></p>Helgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15857576040483926335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434913375593711491.post-2605981623276428202023-11-01T13:17:00.001-07:002023-11-01T13:17:45.961-07:00IN THE NEWS<p><span style="font-size: medium;">By Marianne Cole</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">NEW COUNTY REEVE</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Congratulations to Michelle Swanson on being chosen as the Clearwater County Reeve at Council’s organizational meeting on Tuesday, October 24, 2023. Nominated by Councillor Graham, Reeve Swanson defeated former Reeve Daryl Lougheed in a secret ballot vote. Councillor Mehlhaff was reinstated as Deputy Reeve, while winning over the other remaining council members.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">While this is Reeve Swanson’s second term as councillor it is her first as Reeve. Deputy Reeve Mehlhaff is in her first term as councillor but this is her second appointment as Deputy Reeve.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">LAND USE BYLAW REVIEW PAC CHOSEN</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Another very timely item at Council’s organization meeting was the appointment of the Public Advisory Committee that will work with Council’s Steering Committee on the Land Use Bylaw review. Forty plus people had submitted applications for this committee and the following eight were chosen: Marianne Cole, Jim Duncan, Earl Graham, Bob Haagsma, Shawna Norad, Amanda Thompson, and Rod Tomyn. They come from all areas of the county and represent a wide variety of expertise. We welcome their interest and dedication to developing a positive, beneficial revised LUB reflective of the wishes of the residents.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">COUNTY/CAROLINE AMALGAMATION</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Council recently held an “Amalgamation Workshop” to gather more information on the process as well as drafting a bylaw that will be used as they move forward with discussions on this matter. This was a closed session and no information from it is available.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">In the meantime, the CCTA has been working to gather information on the pros and cons of the options of amalgamation versus dissolution. Several attempts have been made to get a speaker from Municipal Affairs to address the issue but in recent correspondence it stated, “The Municipal Viability Team’s practice is not to make presentation to stakeholder groups during amalgamation proceedings.”</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">An invitation was also sent inviting the county’s Reeve Swanson and Deputy Reeve Mehlhaff, along with Caroline’s Mayor Rimmer and Deputy Mayor Gibson to attend the CCTA Annual General Meeting coming up in mid November. A response has been received from Reeve Swanson declining the invitation.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">It is both disappointing and frustrating that the provision of adequate, unbiased information about the potential impact on both county and village residents is being denied… and they are the ones funding the process. How can we provide feedback to our councils when we don’t have sufficient information to create an informed opinion?</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">UP-COMING AGM</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The Annual General Meeting of the Clearwater County Taxpayers’ Association will be held on Wednesday, November 15, 2023 at 7:30PM at the Arbutus Community Hall. This is one week later than the normal meeting date which would have been held while the Rural Municipalities Association convention is taking place, making it impossible for councillors to attend our meeting and we always appreciate their input. Not only will we be electing new members to the board, we are hoping that we will have some more information about the County/Caroline amalgamation process. We really encourage you to come to our AGM and send a warm welcome to new members as we “work together for the common good”.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">COMING EVENTS:</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Wednesday, November 15, 2023, 7:30PM, Arbutus Community Hall, Annual General Meeting. Note: We do not have a meeting in December and the January meeting date will be determined at the AGM.</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> <i>“We must dare to be great and we must realize that greatness is the fruit of toil and sacrifice and high courage.” </i></span><span style="font-size: large;">Theodore Roosevelt. </span></p>Helgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15857576040483926335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434913375593711491.post-21001849541922882242023-10-05T08:11:00.000-07:002023-10-05T08:11:20.556-07:00IN THE NEWS<p><span style="font-size: medium;">By Marianne Cole</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Two major issues are currently hot topics in Clearwater County: County/village of Caroline amalgamation and the Land Use Bylaw review. Here is a snapshot of info on these matters.</span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">Clearwater County/Village of Caroline Amalgamation</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">At the September 12, 2023 county council meeting a motion was made that negotiations be started immediately with the village of Caroline on a potential amalgamation and that the negotiations be conducted with both councils as a whole. During extensive discussion on the matter the following concerns/points of information were brought forward:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Why is amalgamation the focus instead of dissolution?</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Dissolution of the village may be less costly as the province gets involved and covers more of the costs.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· No estimate of the cost for the process, or a timeline was available.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Currently administration staff from both the village and county are working on a potential draft agreement.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· A meeting with the Minister of Municipal Affairs was suggested in order to “clarify the air” as to who would be paying for this process and how much it would cost.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Cost is certainly a key issue along with the overall impact on residents if/when amalgamation were to take place.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The lack of information on the whole matter including the options involved, their impacts/costs, and what the end result might look like has been particularly frustrating. According to an article on the Rural Municipalities’ website, titled “Jointly Initiated Amalgamation Regulation Discussion Paper”, “The public should have the opportunity to voice support or opposition, and the municipal authorities should be providing sufficient information to the public to take an informed position.” Moving forward we trust that we will get more adequate information and that we will have an opportunity to voice our opinion. Perhaps a referendum might be an option.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">Land Use Bylaw Review</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The initial steps in the process for reviewing the Land use Bylaw began with meetings last week. As of Friday, September 29th, 5 meetings have been held with a total of 83 people attending. The following information and concerns have been heard.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· What is the Land Use Bylaw? The LUB is a document that determines what you can and can’t do on your property. Not only does it provide guidelines for buildings, it also stipulates rules on allowable activities, be they personal or commercial/business.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Concerns have been expressed about the lack of publicity as well as the timing of the meetings. Farmers are currently busy in the field and it is difficult for other working people to make 8:30AM or 5:00PM meetings.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· There were repeated concerns with “government overage” (too many rules and restrictions).</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Particular concerns were focussed on potential rules for seacans. Currently there are no rules for seacans which would technically make them illegal in the county.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Repeated comments were expressed related to the use and storage of recreation vehicles on private property (how many could be allowed??).</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Housing concerns (use of secondary suites, mini houses, and bona fide need residences) were mentioned, noting the questionable need to remove a residence after the bona fide need ended. The current housing shortage would support maintaining such residences.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· People need more information in order to even know what concerns they might have.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">In summary, these recent meetings were “kick off” events. Committees are now being formed to review comments, address issues raised, and work on proposed changes. A Public Advisory Committee (PAC) is being organized and we encourage interested people to apply for this committee. You can call the Clearwater County office (403-845-4444) or check the county website for more information. There will also be future stakeholder meetings and it was suggested at the Leslieville meeting that information sessions be held in each county division.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Coming Events:</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Wednesday, October 11, 2023, 7:30PM, Arbutus Community Hall, CCTA regular meeting </b></span></p><p><b style="font-size: large;">Wednesday, November 8, 2023, 7:30PM, Arbutus Community Hall, CCTA’s Annual General Meeting</b></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Closing thought (a comment made at the LUB meeting in Leslieville): “Common sense isn’t always common.”</span></p>Helgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15857576040483926335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434913375593711491.post-74555065928135259222023-09-06T20:10:00.002-07:002023-09-10T20:43:33.829-07:00IN THE NEWS<p><span style="font-size: medium;">By Marianne Cole</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">New MDP Tests 50%</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The new Municipal Development Plan guidelines have been tested twice during the summer through applications to re-designate land from Agriculture District (A) to Country Residence Agriculture (CRA). One involved an application to re-designate 20 acres while the other was for a 9.24 acre re-designation.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">According to both the new MDP and the current Land Use Bylaw (LUB) a maximum of 7 acres is allowed unless more is needed for existing shelterbelts, farm buildings, or amenities such as sewer.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">In the first case the Municipal Planning Committee (MPC) had suggested approval of only 10 acres, three acres more than allowed due to septic needs. Following a public hearing on the matter, Council went against MPC’s recommendation, as well as their own document, when they approved the 20 acres re-designation during 2nd and 3rd reading by a vote of 5-2 with Councillors Northcott and Cermak opposed.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">In the second case, an original application was made for a 5 acres re-designation but at first reading this was amended, and passed, to potentially allow 9.24 acres. Following the public hearing Council reverted back to the allowable 5 acres re-designation which they then passed during 2nd and 3rd reading.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">With these two recent tests of the validity, control, or power of the new MDP, and the fact that it had an impact or was adhered to only 50% of the time, it will be interesting to see its effectiveness in future land development matters.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Land Use Bylaw Review</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Beginning At their August 22nd meeting Council approved plans to begin a review of the current 22 year old Land Use Bylaw. Specific highlights of the project include:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Vicinia Planning and Engagement Inc. (Liz Armitage) has been hired as the External Project Lead.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· The Council Steering Committee (SC) and a Public Advisory Committee (PAC) will set out goals and expectations.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· The PAC will have a total of 10 members from a variety of interest groups along with 2 interested parties of the public and one councillor (as well as an alternate councillor).</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· The opportunity for the public to submit applications to become part of PAC will be advertised for two weeks (no dates noted).</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Kick-off Engagement sessions are being planned for:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Virtual (online) September 25, 2023, 6:00PM </i></span><i style="font-size: large;"> (www.clearwatercounty.ca/LUB)</i></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Subway Room, Rocky Regional Rec. Center, September 27, 2023, 4:30PM and 7:00PM</i></span></p><p><i style="font-size: large;">Leslieville Community Centre, September 28, 2023, 8:30AM and 5:00PM</i></p><p><i style="font-size: large;">Nordegg Community Hall, September 30, 2023, 1:00PM</i></p><p><i style="font-size: large;">Caroline Community HUB, October 2, 2023, 8:30AM and 5:00PM</i></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">· Further stakeholder meetings are planned for November 2023.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Final draft is planned to be released in August 2024.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">We encourage everyone to get involved as the LUB is a very specific document that governs all forms of land development and business operations in the county. It is much more controlling than the MDP so it is very important to have your input.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Broadband Concerns</span> were raised during the August 22nd Council meeting about broadband finances. First of all a question was asked if the CTI (Canadian Telecommunications Initiatives) Grant had been received. This was a grant we were to have received some time ago. The reply to the question was that staff could get that information and pass it on. Another question was asked related to the amount of money spent on broadband (likely to be about $1M this year) and if any income had been generated from the county’s fibre installations. (Note: The installation of fibre out to Ferrier and Nordegg has been completed as well as past Caroline. Work still has to be done on connectivity to Sundre and Olds.) The reply given to this concern was that the director in charge of this “was not here” so an email reply would have to be sent later.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">It is very disconcerting that there is first of all a lack of information presented to Council, and then a real possibility that no income is being received even though millions are being spent.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Deepest Sympathy</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Our deepest sympathy is extended to the family of Lawrence Stewart in his recent passing. Along with his other significant community involvement, Lawrence was a long time dedicated member of the CCTA. We truly valued his insight, comments, and friendly smile at our meetings.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Coming Events:</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Wednesday, September 13, 2023, 7:30PM and Wednesday, October 11, 2023, 7:30PM regular meetings at the Arbutus Community Hall.</b></span></p>Helgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15857576040483926335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434913375593711491.post-61108393128894948992023-06-15T09:36:00.000-07:002023-06-15T09:36:08.412-07:00IN THE NEWS<p><span style="font-size: medium;">By Marianne Cole</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">COUNTY/CAROLINE AMALGAMATION</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">At the May 23, 2023 Council meeting, Ian McCormack from Strategic Steps Inc. presented a “What We Have Heard Report”. Noted highlights/comments from the report are: (Note: The quotations are taken directly from the report.)</span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">General</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “Responses from County residents differ from those of Village residents. This can be seen particularly in the understanding of benefit and detriment of any potential amalgamation.”</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “There may also be a difference in opinion between those County residents who live close to Caroline and for whom Caroline is a gathering place vs. those who have no interaction in Caroline.”</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “Most participants who identified as being from Caroline believe an amalgamation to be an important step to growth and sustainability.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “Some County residents have concerns about being financially “strapped” by taking on Caroline.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “Adding 500 people to 12,500 people would mean that the current Village would likely not have a dedicated County Council member. The current village population may be spread between two Divisions or it may be contained with a single Division.”</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Below are Pro’s and Con’s expressed either at the public engagement meetings or in the survey.</span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">Pro’s</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “Helping the Village survive with the use of County staff and equipment.”</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “Improved levels of service, more qualified staff, better functioning council, commercial, industrial and residential growth, more community services, programs and better taxation rates.”</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “The amalgamation could make Caroline an amazing, community focussed and quaint hamlet.”</span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">Con’s</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “County taxes will have to rise to pay for the infrastructure to upgrade Caroline.”</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “Amalgamation is off the table for me. Get the Village to dissolve and the County take them over with provincial support.”</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “Caroline will lose all autonomy and will be solely at the mercy of the County and the government. They will no longer have any true say in what the Village needs or can do.”</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “County often does not realize the problems/concerns unique to Village.”</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “First of all, the Village is urban and the County is rural. It is important to maintain this separation…You cannot mix oil with water. Rural is rural and urban is urban.”</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “County residents taking on a larger tax bill to bail out the terrible financial burden the Village has gotten itself into.”</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “Higher taxes.” (This was mentioned several times.)</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “Taxes will increase without the benefit to County residents. We do not need urban/rural amalgamation.”</span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">General Concerns</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “Have not seen enough info to have any truly informed or objective input.”</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “I would like to see what a proposed budget would look like and also a 5 year project/infrastructure plan prior to an amalgamation vote.”</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “This survey really does not recognize the concerns that would be of value to rural residents. Too highly focussed on urban (Caroline) residents, and business, yet County residents could be seriously affect as the County dollars are spent for other people’s benefit.”</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “I feel the consultant attempted to present a rosy picture of amalgamation rather than the nuts and bolts or a true transparent picture of realities that include actual numbers that include how much the Clearwater County already subsidizes the Village.”</span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">Next Steps</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “The next step for both municipal Councils is to determine whether to proceed one more step down the amalgamation path. The decision point in the Municipal Government Act is that both councils would need to pass a resolution in accordance with the MGA.”</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “That being said, if one Council votes in favor of entering direct negotiations and the other one does not the process may still proceed.” (It would be likely that the province would step in at this point.)</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “If both Councils choose to enter direct negotiations, the process will proceed.”</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “If neither Council chooses to enter direct negotiations, the process would stop.”</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “The negotiation process itself, as outlined in Section 104, does not commit either Council to amalgamating.”</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Ultimately, “The formal decision to negotiate is the next step of the process. If the Councils decide to move into negotiating, it will be important that on a regular basis, clear, concise communication and updates to citizens remains a priority, both for reasons of transparency and as a way to combat rumour and misinformation.”</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">We will try to keep you informed about when Council will be considering a decision on these negotiations as well as any further public engagement meetings.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">HAVE A GREAT SUMMER EVERYONE. WE WILL SEE YOU IN SEPTEMBER</span></p>Helgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15857576040483926335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434913375593711491.post-72475916328797680362023-05-03T21:15:00.000-07:002023-05-03T21:15:46.133-07:00IN THE NEWS<p><span style="font-size: medium;">By Marianne Cole</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">MDP</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The latest Municipal Development Plan draft will be brought before County Council on Tuesday, May 9, 2023 for 2nd and 3rd reading.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">This follows the large public hearing held on February 29, 2023 and a motion made then time to table 2nd reading. That allowed Council an opportunity to meet with Planning and the Vicinia consultant to address public input and make potential changes.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The following are current highlights re this process:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· As of April 26, 2023 no draft of the revised document is available to the public.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· It will be become available on May 3, 2023 on the county’s website as part of the agenda package for the May 9th meeting.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· The most notable possible revisions would likely be focussed on allowable subdivisions out of a quarter.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· You may go to clearwatercounty.ca and click on the government, council, meeting and agenda links to find information on the current document.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· While opportunity for public input ended with the February’s public hearing, your presence at the May 9th meeting could be very helpful in promoting council’s attention to resident/taxpayer wishes and opinion.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">At that meeting Council will review the document and will then make a decision to pass 2nd reading, defeat 2nd reading, or table 2nd reading to allow further review. If passed, they can proceed with 3rd reading and if that passes, the document becomes “law”. The other two options would again delay the process.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">WE STRONGLY ENCOURAGE YOU TO ATTEND THE MEETING ON TUESDAY, MAY 9, 2023 AT 9:00AM IN COUNCIL CHAMBERS AT THE COUNTY OFFICE.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">MONEY MATTERS</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Significant information was presented and discussed at the April 26th Council meeting on both the 2022 financial audit numbers and the up-coming tax rate for 2023. Interesting points included:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· As of December 31, 2022 there was an unrestricted surplus of $3,291, 875, up from $2, 164,056 in 2021. (This is undesignated money that can be used as needed.)</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· As of December 31, 2022 there was a restricted surplus of $102, 797, 385, down from $109,198, 656 in 2021. This is money specifically allocated to funding certain projects/categories if needed (roads, bridges, capital purchases, special projects such as broadband, etc.).</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Large discussion took place on the overall tax rate, along with differing tax rates for residential, farmland, and non-residential (commercial/industrial properties).</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Finally a motion was made to have administration draft a proposed tax rate bylaw that would see a 3% increase on residential/farmland properties and 3.5% increase on non-residential. During discussion, up to 5% had be mentioned for non-residential.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· The draft will be presented at the next council meeting on May 9, 2023 at which time Council will again discuss the matter and make a decision.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">SOLAR FARM PROJECT INFO</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Four guest speakers presented excellent information on solar farm projects at the Arbutus Community Hall on April 12, 2023. The presenters included MLA Jason Nixon, Stan Bell with Stewards of Ag. Land (SAL). Darcy Allen from the Farmers’ Advocate Office, and Mark Dorin from Polluters Pay.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Notable highlights presented included:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Concerns with the loss of valuable farmland.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Questionable efficiency of solar projects.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Concerns with reclamation and who’s responsible if the company becomes bankrupt.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· The strong need for landowners to gather legal advice when/if signing contract agreements with solar companies.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Impact on surrounding land values and way of life.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Concerns with the control held by the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) as they are solely responsible for reviewing, approving, or refusing solar project applications. It was noted that they are seriously over-loaded with applications of various sorts and this may impact their ability to adequately review/assess applications.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">(Note: The AUC’s recent denial of a solar project near Frank Lake east of High River was its first denial. It was denied due to potential negative impact on migratory birds in that area.)</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· The lack of control the county has in assessing/approving solar projects.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Certainly losing necessary food-producing land for an operation that may only be 17% efficient raises significant concerns. It was also interesting to note that solar companies do not make their money from selling power to the grid, but rather by selling carbon credits to purchasers such as Amazon!!</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">4. Exciting Return of Trade Show Sponsored by the Rocky Chamber of Commerce, a Trade Show will be held on May 12 & 13, 2023 at the Regional Rec Center in Rocky. This event has been absent for a few years and it is great to see it happening again. It will be a special opportunity for local businesses and residents to come together for a mutually enjoyable, beneficial event.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Up-Coming Events:</span> </span></p><p><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Tuesday, May 9, 2023, 9:00AM, County Council Meeting,</span></b></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">Regular CCTA meetings: </span></p><p><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Wednesday, May 10, 2023 and Wednesday, June 14, 2023, 7:30PM at Arbutus Community Hall</span></b></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">Thoughts for May </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow. <i>Audrey Hepburn</i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Gardening adds years to your life and life to your years. <i>Unknown</i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant. <i>Robert Lewis Stevenson.</i></span></p>Helgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15857576040483926335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434913375593711491.post-40788385780724285332023-04-03T08:51:00.000-07:002023-04-03T08:51:35.579-07:00IN THE NEWS<p><span style="font-size: medium;">By Marianne Cole</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">County/Caroline Amalgamation</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Public engagement on this matter has concluded with 4 in-person meetings and 1 virtual meeting held over the last month. Information on the process was presented and comments/concerns were addressed. The most serious concerns focussed on the following topics:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Finances</i>:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Caroline’s 2023 budget shows a balanced revenue/expenditure of $1,092,660.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Their proposed 5 year Capital Plan shows a total expenditure of $3,985,000, with the largest portion ($3,360,000) proposed for 2025 and 2026. If amalgamation were to proceed those larger costs would potentially occur under the new county jurisdiction.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Currently Caroline has a long term debt of $196,295 or 10.4% of its limit.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">For 2023, Clearwater County will be contributing $750,473 to enhance life in Caroline. This includes monetary donations to support the library, the Caroline Seniors with their housing, travel and operating costs, the museum, the Hub ($485,000 through the Ag. Society), the Hub medical clinic, school scholarship, volunteer recognition, the Caroline Chamber of Commerce, and Caroline fire services.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Options:</i> Following a review of information gathered at the meetings and Councils’ discussions, these are the possible options to be considered:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Things could stay as is.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Dissolution. Caroline could dissolve and become a hamlet. It would then come under the jurisdiction of the County. Municipal Affairs becomes involved to assist with determining representation on County council, divisional boundary changes, and other matters of consideration when it becomes part of the County.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Amalgamation. This would mean that both jurisdictions would dissolve and a “transitional council” would take over. Then there would likely be a recommendation made by Municipal Affairs as to future council representation and how the county divisions would be allotted. A “transitional council” could potentially be eliminated if the dissolution/amalgamation took place very close to the next election.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Concerns:</i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Governance. With amalgamation and the potential establishment of a “transitional council” there could be an unequal balance of power with the 5 representatives for 514 residents of the village joining the 7 representatives for the 11,000 county residents. The possibility exists that village councillors plus one or two county councillors could sway decisions on county matters.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Finances. What happens to the County’s reserves if dissolution/amalgamation occurs?? What happens to Caroline’s current debt and the proposed capital/infrastructure costs??</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">While it sounds “neighborly” to proceed with “amalgamation”, a larger number of area residents (and their tax dollars) should not be compromised for the benefit a few… especially when Caroline isn’t as financially endangered as the rumor mill has suggested.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Note of Interest</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">In 2015 the County purchased 112 acres of land on the northeast edge of Caroline for the purpose of establishing an industrial park. To date over $3M has been spent on the land purchase along with grading and paving. Unfortunately none of the 10 lots in Phase 1 have been sold. This is likely due to the fact that it is a “Dry Park”--- no water and sewer. Perhaps discussion between the village and county should focus on a water/sewage development agreement instead of amalgamation. Attracting business development to this park could be a win-win for both jurisdictions.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Municipal Development Plan </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">No new news here. A councillor workshop is being planned to discuss amendments/ideas to incorporate the public’s comments into a new draft. Once completed, the revised document will be brought to Council for their consideration/approval.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Solar Farm Meeting</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Due to the increased interest from solar operations to establish solar farms in our area, the CCTA is hosting an information meeting on this subject. The meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 12, 2023 at 7:30PM at the Arbutus Community Hall. We will be hosting 3 guest speakers: Darcy Allan from the Farmers’ Advocate Office, MLA Jason Nixon, and Stan Bell from the Sustainable Ag Land (SAL) group at Benalto. There are some serious concerns related to these potential operations and we encourage you to come and hear the information to be presented.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Coming Events:</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Solar Meeting, Wednesday, April 12, 2023, 7:30PM, Arbutus Community Hall Regular monthly meeting, </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Wednesday, May 10, 2023, 7:30PM, Arbutus Community Hall</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Thought for Easter:</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">“Easter is the only time of year it is safe to put all your eggs in one basket.” <i>Anonymous.</i></span></p>Helgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15857576040483926335noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434913375593711491.post-64946935872906792562023-03-03T11:01:00.000-08:002023-03-03T11:01:11.627-08:00IN THE NEWS<p><span style="font-size: medium;">By Marianne Cole</span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">February 21, 2023 MDP Public Hearing</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The Lou Soppit Center was packed with Clearwater County residents who braved nasty winter driving conditions to attend the Public Hearing on the County’s Municipal Development Plan draft review. As of Thursday, February 23, 2023 county staff could not release tabulated results of the exact attendance numbers and the individual support or opposition to the document. Highlights of the day included:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">14 people spoke in favor of the current document</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">59 people spoke in opposition</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">32 letters of support had been received (1 read out publicly)</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">30 letter of opposition received (1 read out)</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">A distinct show of opposition was evident when a speaker asked those in opposition to stand. Almost all in attendance stood up.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Following the presentations, Council unanimously passed a motion to table 2nd Reading to allow them to consider all comments heard during the hearing as well as in letters received. It is anticipated that the 2nd Reading will be held later in March or the beginning of April. We will keep you posted.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Huge thanks</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">We send out special notes of thanks to those that made the Public Hearing a great success:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Everyone who braved the weather to attend. Your dedication should send a clear message to Council.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Everyone who spoke or sent in letters. We trust your opinion will be valued.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Gene Henneigh and Joe Cech for generously sponsoring excellent information pages in recent issues of the Western Star.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The donors who have generously supported our CCTA “What’s Up” column and recent ads in the Western Star.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Council and County staff for the great job of organizing the event.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">We certainly look forward to the outcome.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Clearwater County/Village of Caroline Amalgamation</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Public meetings are currently scheduled to inform county and village residents about the potential amalgamation. Certainly working cooperatively is a valuable goal, but accepting large financial deficits are a concern.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">We encourage you to attend the meetings to gather information and share your opinion. Meeting dates:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· February 27, 2023, 6:30PM-8:00PM, Leslieville Community Hall</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· March 1, 2023, 6:30PM – 8:00PM, Butte Hall</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· March 6, 2023, 6:30PM – 8:00PM, Crammond Community Hall</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· March 13, 2023, 6:30PM – 8:00PM, Caroline Community Hub</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· March 23, 2023, 6:30PM – 8:00PM, Virtual Zoom Meeting</span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">Thoughts for March</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">May the blessings of each day be the blessings you need most… Irish Blessing</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">May the dreams you hold dearest be those which come true and the kindness you spread be returning to you. … Unknown.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Coming Events</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Wednesday, March 8, 2023, 7:30PM, Arbutus Community Hall, regular meeting; </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Wednesday, April 12, 2023, 7:30PM, Arbutus Community Hall, regular meeting.</b></span></p>Helgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15857576040483926335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434913375593711491.post-63521054163590378722023-02-07T09:18:00.000-08:002023-02-07T09:18:05.062-08:00IN THE NEWS<p><span style="font-size: medium;">By Marianne Cole</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">MDP PUBLIC HEARING TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2023, 9:00AM, LOU SOPPIT CENTRE, ROCKY MTN. HOUSE.</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">This is the main opportunity for people to voice their opinions on the proposed revised draft of the Municipal Development Plan. As mentioned numerous times, the most controversial parts of the document are the:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Increase in allowable subdivisions per quarter from 1 to ultimately 3</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Increase in allowable size of the subdivision from 5 acres to 15 acres in total (This can be 1 subdivision or divided among others that would total no more than 15 acres.)</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Concerns have been raised about the negative impact on farming operations and the potential loss of food producing land with these proposed changes.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Concerns are now being raised about the hearing being held at a time when many are at work and unable to attend. We encourage those who can’t come to the hearing to write, email, or call their councillor to voice their opinions. Contact information is as follows:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">a. Mail: Send to your councillor at Clearwater County, Box 550, Rocky Mtn. House, AB T4T 1A4</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">b. Email or Phone: · Div. 1: Deputy Reeve Gennifer Mehlhaff, gmehlhaff@clearwatercounty.ca (403)846-8254 · Div. 2: Sydney Graham, sgraham@clearwatercounty.ca (403)846-3760 · Div. 3: Reeve Daryl Lougheed, dlougheed@clearwatercounty.ca (403)846-5817 · Div. 4: Jordan Northcott, jnorthcott@clearwatercounty.ca (403)895-2649 · Div. 5: Neil Ratcliffe, nratcliffe@clearwatercounty.ca (403)895-3215 · Div. 6: Bryan Cermak, bcermak@clearwatercounty.ca (403)846-5197 · Div. 7: Michelle Swanson, mswanson@clearwatercounty.ca (403)846-5824</span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">WHAT HAPPENS NEXT??</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">1. Following the hearing, Council will consider 2nd and 3rd reading of a motion to accept the MDP. If that passes, the document becomes law.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">2. They could make a motion to accept the document with changes (such as reducing the subdivisions to the current number (1) and the acres back down to 5.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">3. If the motions don’t pass, council will have to review the document and work to hopefully address people’s concerns.</span></p><p></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">WHAT CAN PEOPLE DO??</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">1. Express their opinion by contacting their councillor and/or attending the hearing.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">2. If council passes the motion to accept the MDP as is, residents have 3 options:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">a. Accept Council’s decision.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">b. Organize a petition to have council repeal their decision. That petition must be filed within 60 days after the resolution/motion was passed and must be signed by 10% of the population. 30 days after that Council must give 1st reading to a motion to deal with the matter of the petition.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">c. Notify the CAO of their intent to start a petition to recall a councillor/s. Organizers would then have 60 days to gather signatures and submit the petition to the Chief Electoral Officer. The petition must be signed by 40% of the electors in that councillor’s division. This would be followed by a recall vote and if there is a majority in favor of the recall, the councillor ceases to hold office.</span></p><p><span style="color: #93c47d; font-size: medium;">WE TRUST THAT COUNCIL WILL LISTEN TO THE VOICE OF THE PEOPLE AND OPTIONS B or C WON’T BE NECESSARY</span></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">Tamarack Transit System Project</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"> The Clearwater Regional Housing Foundation and Steering Committee is looking at ideas to effectively provide a rural public transit solution for seniors, low-income residents, or other compromised residents. They are currently planning Community Engagement Meetings at the Rocky Legion on Wednesday, February 15, 2023, 2:00pm-4:00pm and 6:30pm-8:30pm; Leslieville Community Center, Thursday, February 16, 2021, 6:30pm-8:30pm; Nordegg Community Centre, Tuesday, March 7, 2023, 2:00pm-4:00pm, and 6:30pm-8:30pm; and Caroling Legion, Wednesday, March 15, 2023, 6:30pm-8:30pm.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">They are also conducting a survey and you may contact Janice Fraser at (587)777-8139 or via email at crhf2016@gmail.com to get a copy of the survey. They will then report back to the community at a Clearwater County Town Hall meeting at the Rocky Legion on Tuesday, June 13, 2023 at 7:00-9:00pm.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">Solar Farm Concerns </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Recent proposals for solar farms in the Sylvan Lake/Benalto area as well as Caroline have raised concerns about their viability, the loss of good agricultural land, and reclamation issues. The CCTA is looking into getting speakers to address these concerns and we will keep you posted on a future meeting once it’s organized.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Coming events:</span> </span></p><p><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Wednesday, February 8, 2023, 7:30PM, Arbutus Community Hall, Regular meeting </span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Tuesday, February 21, 2023, 9:00AM, Lou Soppit Center, Rocky Mtn. House, MDP Public Hearing</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: medium;"> Wednesday, March 8, 2023, 7:30PM, Arbutus Community Hall Regular meeting</span></b></p>Helgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15857576040483926335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434913375593711491.post-50530684711958829992023-01-03T08:20:00.000-08:002023-01-03T08:20:04.664-08:00IN THE NEWS<p><span style="font-size: medium;">By Marianne Cole</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">2023 Budget </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">At the December 20, 2022 Council meeting, Council passed several motions to approve the 2023 budget. In summary the following projections are highlighted:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Operating revenue: $56.2M</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Operating expenses: $69.9M</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Funds coming from restricted reserves: $4.1M</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Balance: Minus $9.6M</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Capital revenue: $11.8M</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Capital expenses: $55.1M</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Funds coming from restricted reserves: $36.2M</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Balance: Minus $7.1M</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The negative balance of about $16.7M will be overcome with a blend of amortization dollars being added back and unrestricted reserve dollars. It is noteworthy that we started the 2022 year with a restricted reserve balance of $109M and will end the year with a balance of $95M. BUT the projected balance of our restricted reserve funds at the end of 2023 will be $59.7M as these funds will be used to fund specific budgeted projects as well as the above noted deficits.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">How long can these reserves last??</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Municipal Development Plan Review</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Also at the December 20th meeting Council passed First Reading of the MDP draft by a vote of 4-3. Voting in favor were Reeve Lougheed, Deputy Reeve Mehlhaff, and Councillors Ratcliffe and Swanson. Opposed were Councillors Graham, Northcott, and Cermak. 14 members of the public had braved bitterly cold temperatures to attend this portion of the meeting to witness council discussion and vote.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">During the discussion Councillor Cermak expressed excellent comments on the need for councillors to listen to the voice of the people. This was certainly reflected in his vote opposing the draft document. In his comments Councillor Northcott expressed agreement with Councillor Cermak’s comments while also mentioning the negative impact this plan could have on young farmers. As such he commended those in attendance for their interest in this matter. Deputy Reeve Mehlhaff mentioned that she has had lots of calls on this issue and wants to pass First Reading so the matter will go to a public hearing, offering people an official opportunity for input. Councillor Ratcliffe also expressed the same need to move forward with a public hearing. As Councillor Graham was in attendance virtually, Councillor Lougheed read a letter she had submitted stating she has heard from numerous people with a strong majority being opposed to the new draft. Councillor Swanson noted that 20 extra subdivisions won’t have a large impact and there is a need to grow our population. Reeve Lougheed mentioned that</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Council needs to consider everyone, and that is a difficult balancing act. In addition he feels that we need to be a welcoming community. In summary he said he has faith in what will be presented at a public hearing and he wants to hear everyone’s opinion in order to get the right balance.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Proceeding forward the next steps will be:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Referral letters </i>will be sent to various agencies (local energy providers, oil industry companies, neighboring jurisdictions, and First Nations). These letters would indicate that First Reading has passed and they have 30 days to respond with their input.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>A Public Hearing</i> will be held. Planning is now in progress. With the potential for a large public attendance various venues and dates are being considered.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>2 week public notice</i> must be given prior to the Public Hearing. This will be done in a variety of ways including local papers, county web-site, social media, and radio. Given the 30 day timeline for response to Referral Letters the Public Hearing will likely take place in February.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>The public is invited </i>to attend the hearing to make presentations and voice their opinion.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Council will then consider</i> 2nd Reading. They will have the options to pass the document as is, pass with amendments, table the decision, or defeat passing.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>If passed</i>, they can proceed immediately to 3rd Reading and if that passes, the MDP draft becomes an official document. The last two options would require further time and consideration.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">In the meantime, you are encouraged to call, email, or write your councillor to express your opinion. This is a significant document that has the potential to not only affect people’s lives for many years to come, but also land use forever.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: red;">RANT</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">It’s been a while since I felt the need to rant, but it was prompted by a recent email as well as a phone call. Both expressed a concern with a “double standard” being potentially promoted by administration and Council. They noted that recent action (and large legal costs) resulted in one councillor being excluded from discussion and decision on broadband matters because of potential pecuniary interest. Yet, at the moment all councillors, many of them farmers/landowners, are involved in discussions on the MDP review--- and will be voting on it even though they could have a pecuniary interest with the increased opportunity to subdivide.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">I feel it is absolutely crucial for councillors to both gather information and express their opinion while making decisions. As such they should ALL have equal opportunity for input. Each Councillor has recognizable knowledge on various topics and this should be equally valued/accepted by both colleagues and administration. Restricting input in one situation but permitting it in another might support the above concerns with a double standard. May open acceptance of all input be a new practise in 2023.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Up-coming Events:</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b> Regular monthly meetings, </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Wednesday, January 11, 2023 and </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Wednesday, </b></span><b style="font-size: large;">February 8, 2023, both at 7:30PM at Arbutus Community Hall.</b></p>Helgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15857576040483926335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434913375593711491.post-20203952529868206192022-12-14T13:20:00.000-08:002022-12-14T13:20:09.570-08:00Letter to Council<p><span style="font-size: large;">Marianne Cole, President Clearwater County Taxpayers’ Association RR #1 Rocky Mtn. House, AB T4T 2A1 mcmajic@telus.net</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Mr. Daryl Lougheed, Reeve Clearwater County Box 550 Rocky Mtn. House, AB T4T 1A4 dlougheed@clearwatercounty.ca December 13, 2022</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Dear Reeve Lougheed and County Councillors:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">I am writing this letter on behalf of the Clearwater County Taxpayers’ Association as a supplement to my earlier letter of November 15, 2022. We feel it is very important that the points noted here be addressed at the December 20, 2022 County Council meeting as you consider First Reading of the Municipal Development Plan draft.</span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: large;">Facts to Consider</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">· 78% of the people who responded to the county’s survey were in favor of only 1 subdivision out of a quarter.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">· 64% were opposed to two parcels out.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">· The majority of comments expressed during meetings opposed extra subdivisions, with a focus on potential negative impacts on agricultural operations as well as community services.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">· Serious concerns were expressed over the potential loss of food producing land.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">· Our current MDP allows only 1 subdivision per quarter with 5 acres maximum size.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">· The proposed MDP draft would allow 2 subdivisions with a total of 15 acres out. That is three times the current allowable land to be removed from a quarter.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">· A “recommendation” from administration (as per the What We Heard Report) suggests a maximum of 25 subdivisions be allowed per year. Apparently Council is proposing only 20 be allowed.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">· If the number and size (as per the current MDP) were to be maintained, a total of only 100 acres (5 x 20) could be removed from potentially farmable land per year.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">· BUT, if the proposed numbers are used (15 acres x 20 subdivisions) 300 acres could be removed each year. Multiply that times the 4 years this plan could be in effect and 1200 acres of productive land could be lost.</span></p><p></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: large;">Responsibility to Constituents</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">According to the Municipal Government Act, Section 153, “Councillors have the following duties: (a) to consider the welfare and interests of the municipality as a whole..” This would suggest that you consider the majority of opinion. It is important to note:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">· During the review process Council supported various opportunities to gather public opinion, namely in-person town hall meetings, virtual on-line meetings, and a written survey.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">· Throughout all of these activities the most common opinion expressed was opposition to an increase in number of subdivisions (along with the allowable size) out of a quarter.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">· Rationale supporting that opposition focussed on:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Ø Negative impact on agricultural operations, the primary activity in our county</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Ø The loss of valuable food producing land</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Ø Concern with negative impact on community services such as road maintenance, school bus safety, and emergency services.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">· All of the public engagement activities involved significant costs for hall rentals, consultant wages, staff time, advertising and miscellaneous expenses.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">· As these expenses were funded by taxpayer dollars, it is crucial that their voices be heard. If you ignore the majority of public opinion expressed through the above activities, you have not only wasted money, but devalued the input of the very people who placed their confidence in you during the past election.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: large;">Questionable Responses</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Throughout this whole review process we have heard comments and responses from not only the public but also administration and Council. Some of these have raised the following questions/concerns:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">· There is a desire to have more acreages allowed for family members/estate planning. While this may be considered a cooperative action, it was not a majority issue. Furthermore, it is not the County’s duty to be involved with estate planning. That is a personal responsibility to be addressed throughout life.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">· We have heard comments from Council that the CCTA is only a small group and does not represent the majority. First of all we generally sell 25-30 memberships per year. There are usually 15-20 people attending every meeting and there are currently 59 on our email list. As such these numbers are greater than any county committee involved in making decisions for the county. Furthermore, our members come from all areas of the county. They are involved in those areas and hear very valuable comments from their neighbors. Consequently, the comments that we make are representative of a large number of county residents.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">· We have also heard comments negating the value of farmland in our county. While we may not have a large amount of profitable grain producing land we are well known for our forage production and very valuable grazing opportunities. People from all over central Alberta bring their cattle out here for summer pasture.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">· While there seems to be an increasing concern elsewhere with the loss of food producing land, this does not seem to be a matter of consideration by our administration or potentially Council as well. Food is one of the necessities of life and every effort should be taken to ensure</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">adequate future supply. It would be great to have our county value this need as much as neighboring jurisdictions along with those promoting RAMP (the Regional Agricultural Management Plan) in the Edmonton area.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">· We have also heard the financial argument used to promote the need for increased taxes gathered from acreages. While the financial outlook in this county did take a brief downturn, there has been a positive upsurge in the oil industry that will have positive impacts into the future. In addition, as of October 31, 2022 revenues for 2022 were $2,237,397 over budget. I also remind you of the very large amount of taxpayer dollars that are sitting in restricted reserves.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">· Finally, we have repeatedly heard the comment from administration that “we get many inquiries for more acreages and bigger sizes.” This is a moot point as they are not going to hear opposing wishes on a daily basis. People are not going to walk into the county office to merely express an opinion about limiting acreage numbers or sizes. The only ones that would come in would be the ones that want something and they are certainly not in the majority.</span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: large;">Potential Action</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">At this December 20, 2022 County Council meeting you are provided with the opportunity for 3 possible actions:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">· You may pass the current draft as presented. This would demonstrate publicly a distinct lack of value placed on the majority of opinions gathered during the process you promoted to guide you.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">ü You may pass the current draft with amendments. We strongly suggest that you amend the sections dealing with subdivisions out of a quarter, reducing the number to 1 and the size to 5. Your survey results indicated 78% support for such amendments.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">· You may defeat the motion to pass this current MDP draft completely but this would not be a positive move as it could result in significant delay and additional cost.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">In conclusion we sincerely ask that Council pass amendments to the current Municipal Development Plan draft as noted above. These changes could be accomplished effectively, efficiently, and responsibly prior to 2nd Reading.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">As you make your decision we trust that your dedication to the majority of your electorate will ultimately override personal opinions or desires, but reflect the true voice of the people.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Yours truly,</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Marianne Cole</i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Cc: Deputy Reeve Mehlhaff, Councillors Graham, Northcott, Ratcliffe, Cermak, and Swanson, CAO Rick Emmons, and Executive Assistant Tracy Lynn Haight.</span></p>Helgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15857576040483926335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434913375593711491.post-19355344860059523332022-11-04T11:16:00.000-07:002022-11-04T11:16:47.930-07:00IN THE NEWS<p><span style="font-size: medium;">By Marianne Cole</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Reeve Returns with New Deputy Reeve</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">In a two-person contest against Michelle Swanson, Daryl Lougheed was re-elected as Reeve for a second one year term at the Clearwater County Organizational meeting on Tuesday, October 25, 2022. Following his swearing in Reeve Lougheed commented that accepting the position is “less about politics and more about service.” We certainly thank him for his dedicated efforts in that regard.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Subsequently, in another two person contest Gennifer Mehlhafff defeated Bryan Cermak to become our new Deputy Reeve. Newly elected as councillor for Division 1 (south-west of Rocky) in 2020, Deputy Reeve Mehlhaff has been a tireless worker on behalf of all county residents and we congratulate her on her new position as Deputy Reeve.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">2021 Audited Financial Statements</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"> The 2021 Audited Financial Statements were finally presented at Council’s October 25, 2022 meeting. Normally presented in late April/early May they were delayed this year due to complications with the dissolution of the Rocky Municipal Waste Authority (a former joint operation with the town of Rocky and Village of Caroline). Notable financial highlights were:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· An increase of $268,792 in revenue from 2020 to 2021</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· An annual surplus of $2,717,854 in 2021</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· An accumulated “Restricted Surplus” of $109,198,656. These monies are dedicated to 24 specific areas/departments of operation and may be accessed when necessary for over-budget costs incurred there. The 2021 total is down $4.7million from 2020 but is still a significantly large surplus.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Salaries, wages, and benefit expenses increased $1,358,513 or 9.8% from 2020 to 2021.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Comments made by both county staff and the auditor suggested the county is in a strong financial position. Significant money was collected in concerning unpaid taxes and the Nordegg lots have been selling very well. Maybe with such strong reserves and good financial position, we can look forward to reduced municipal taxes as the 2023 budget is prepared/passed.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">MDP Review</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">In recent conversation with the county’s Planning Department it was noted that a summary of “What We’ve Heard” is being prepared and discussed with Council. A meeting on the matter was held Wednesday, October 26, 2022 and there is an up-coming meeting scheduled for Thursday, November 3, 2022. Unfortunately these meetings are not being videoed.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Following these meetings a summary of information will be presented publicly. We will keep our fingers crossed that the re-draft of the MDP is reflective of the voice of the people.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Up-Coming AGM</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The Clearwater County Taxpayers’ Association Annual General Meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 9, 2022 at 7:30PM at the Arbutus Community Hall. Special guest speakers will be RCMP Staff Sgt. Carl Dinsdale and RCMP Cst. Harold Smits. We sincerely welcome them and invite everyone to come and hear information on rural crime concerns and future policing matters.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Coming Events</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Wednesday, November 9, 2022, 7:30PM, Arbutus Community Hall, Annual General Meeting with guest speakers from the RCMP</i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Wednesday, January 11, 2023, 7:30PM, Arbutus Community Hall, Regular Meeting</i></span></p><p></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Thoughts for November:</span> “There can be no dedication to Canada’s future without a knowledge of its past” John Diefenbaker</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">“A hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself.” John Campbell</span></p>Helgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15857576040483926335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434913375593711491.post-7498465826757496982022-10-08T08:03:00.000-07:002022-10-08T08:03:21.644-07:00IN THE NEWS<p><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">By Marianne Cole</span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">Broadband Information</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Broadband Survey</i>: A survey set up to gather public opinion on the county’s Broadband Business Plan was available on-line earlier this summer and closed July 18, 2022. Unfortunately there were only 43 responses. Of those, 36 expressed a negative viewpoint on the plan, while only 7 had a positive opinion.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Basically the Plan lays out a 6 phase process to install a fibre optic backbone network throughout the county. Once installed, individual Internet Service Providers (ISP’s) could connect to this “framework” as they proceed further to install services to the homes.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The biggest concerns focussed on questionable returns on investment as it is difficult to assess what the response/usage of the system might be from ISP’s.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>A Broadband Committee Meeting,</i> involving all of Council minus Councillor Ratcliffe, was held on September 20, 2022. It featured a well-prepared presentation by the County’s Tech Department on an “Open Access” network operation. Basically, “An open Access network is open to be used by multiple service providers simultaneously and on equal terms, enabling choices for customers.” The OAN may be compared to a road system. A network owner (the county) builds and maintains the “road” and any user (ISP’s) would then pay a “toll fee”. While profits from investment may be questionable, especially in rural areas, it does help create a more attractive community for residents and businesses through the availability of improved broadband access.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Great discussion took place among councillors with some of the following comments highlighted:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· A need to get more information out to the public about the potential benefits/risks involved with the Broadband Plans and encourage public engagement in the process.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Estimated cost of the work on the backbone project Capital budget for 2023 is $3.5M.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Core backbone work out to Nordegg is now complete and there is interest by ISP’s to complete hook-up to the residences.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Continuing questions about the necessity of installing fibre optic cable all the way to Olds.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Council has asked for more information on the project and another meeting is planned to discuss broadband issues and plans. It may be helpful to discuss this matter with your councillor and urge that in-person information meetings be held.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">Agricultural Recreation Facility </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The development of an Ag. Rec. Facility was discussed at the September 27, 2022 Council meeting. This project had previously been discussed in 2015. At that time 2 phases were presented: Phase 1 would include the “development of a new indoor agricultural recreation facility (indoor riding arena) to meet basic community program and event need.” Phase 2 would include the “Addition of a banquet/exhibition facility in order to increase the event hosting capacity of the site and better meet community need. Existing indoor riding arena (Phase 1 development) also enhanced with additional amenities (e.g. increased spectator seating, box stalls).”</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">At that time various stakeholder groups (4-H clubs, Ag. Society, Stampede and Chuckwagon Associations, Gymkhana, Town of Rocky, and Chamber of Commerce) had been surveyed to gather opinions on the project. Information from the survey suggested that, “While the majority of participants were generally in favour of developing a new agricultural recreation facility, a number of important factors and considerations were shared with regards to operational models, facility components and amenities and the need for continued stakeholder engagement and involvement.”</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">At that time the anticipated capital costs for Phase 1 were $12,031,500 and for Phase 2 were $10,071,000. Operational costs for Phase 1 indicated a revenue versus expenses deficit of $129,800/year while Phase 2 projected a deficit of $63,150.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Certainly costs for both capital and operations have risen significantly in the last 7 years. Excellent discussion by Council on this matter took place, including a desire to gather input from all county residents and a strong need for more current information on financial aspects of the project.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">MDP Review</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Planning has been working to summarize comments and input gathered at the various meetings held in August and emails sent in. On September 29, 2022 Council held a closed information meeting to hear a presentation from the Consultant and Planning on, “What we have Heard”. A summary of those comments, along with possible changes to the Municipal Development Plan will, hopefully, be available early in October. A “final” draft may be released in November and it is anticipated that a special Public Hearing on the document may be held in January.</span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">Coming Events:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Wednesday, October 12, 2022, 7:30PM, Arbutus Community Hall, regular monthly meeting </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Wednesday, </b></span><b style="font-size: large;">November 9, 2022, 7:30PM, Arbutus Community Hall, ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING</b></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Thanksgiving Thought:</i> “You ought to be thankful a whole heaping lot, for the places and people you’re lucky you’re not.” Dr. Seuss.</span></p>Helgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15857576040483926335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434913375593711491.post-29266121486660826082022-08-22T07:00:00.000-07:002022-08-22T07:00:00.854-07:00IN THE NEWS<p><span style="font-size: medium;">By Marianne Cole</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">MDP REVIEW</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The Municipal Development Plan review’s public input activities are wrapping up. So far 7 in-person meetings and 2 virtual (on-line) meetings have been held. People have also had the opportunity to fill in a survey that was printed in the Western Star and the Mountaineer as well as being available on the County’s website. Paper copies were also available at the meetings. Opportunity for input wrapped up on August 19, 2022.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The most contentious issue has been the proposed change to allow 2 subdivisions (3 titles) per quarter with the potential for a 3rd subdivision (4th title). The maximum size for a subdivision on a quarter is up to 20 acres (currently 5 acres). This may be from one 20 acre parcel or other small ones totally up to 20 acres. (Currently we allow one parcel out at a maximum size of 5 acres along with the possibility of a fragmented parcel being subdivided.)</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Throughout the meetings (most notably the larger attended in-person ones at Leslieville and Caroline) the majority of the people were strongly opposed to the extra subdivisions per quarter. The following comments were expressed:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Significant concern over the loss of valuable farmland. This was the Number 1 concern overall.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> Increasing difficulty for young farmers to remain viable or expand</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Increased problems between acreage owners and farmers</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Increased weed problems on acreages and the spread to adjoining farms</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Extra cost of providing infrastructure services with increased subdivisions</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Concern over impact on bus routes with increased stops and more approaches with more acreages</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Concern over impact on increased demands on first responders</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Concern with increased crime</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Concerns with water and sewer issues with increased acreages</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Concerns with dropping fragmentation as a possible subdivision opportunity</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Those supporting increased subdivisions wanted them basically for personal reasons (estate planning and financial gain). They also thought it might bring in more tax dollars for the county but the concerns with various increased costs as noted above put a negative spin on that.</span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">What our neighbors are doing with subdivisions</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #93c47d;">Brazeau County</span>: 4 titles per quarter (3 subdivisions) and they will consider a fragmented parcel if the resulting subdivision doesn’t exceed 4 titles.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #93c47d;">Wetaskiwin County</span>: “Subdivision of an unsubdivided quarter is discouraged.” (Quote from their MDP.) A parcel of land may be subdivided to create a farm site or two 80 acres parcels. No more than one subdivided lot per quarter and the maximum parcel size is 5 acres.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #93c47d;">Ponoka County</span>: Depending on the land quality rating, a single residential lot may be subdivided and fragmented/segregated parcels are allowed.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #93c47d;">Lacombe County</span>: “There is no automatic right to subdivide.” The subdivision of a first parcel out of an unsubdivided quarter may be considered if the habitable permanent residence has been there for 5 years or more and the parcel is not greater than 4 acres (unless there are shelterbelts and outbuildings). Fragmented parcels are allowed but must not result in more than 3 titles.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #93c47d;">Red Deer County</span>: A maximum of one agricultural parcel out of a subdivided quarter (2 titles) is allowed if a farmstead, severance, or valued added agricultural operation. “The approval of a bare agricultural parcel subdivision will be entirely a discretionary decision on the part of the subdivision authority.” In that case the subdivision authority would be Red Deer County. Parcel size would be according to the Land Use Bylaw.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #93c47d;">Mountain View County</span>: The first parcel out of a previously unsubdivided quarter may only be supported by the County for the creation of one additional parcel subject to a re-designation and subdivision application, and provisions of the LUB and MDP. It has 2 categories of assessing the number of subdivisions/titles allowed: Agricultural Preservation Area: The maximum number of titles per quarter is 2 and with a farmstead separation the allowable size is 2 – 9 acres. Multi-lot Residential Areas allow up to 4 titles per quarter with sizes varying from 2 to 5 acres.</span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">Where do we go from here??</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Step 1. All comments received/heard at the meetings will be reviewed and a report prepared by Planning Staff to present to Council.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Step 2. Council will review the report and decide to either proceed with approving the document or make changes.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Step 3. A final draft will be created as is or with changes.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Step 4. A public hearing will be held to present the final draft to the public. Potentially in November.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Step 5. Council will approve or not approve the Municipal Development Plan that has been developed.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Note: Questions were frequently asked about who makes the decisions on the MDP. Administration replied that it is up to Council to approve/not approve the document that is presented. In return, concerns were expressed if Council would actually listen to the people.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Certainly this is a very large issue and, as was mentioned at one of the meetings in Rocky, councillors need to put personal opinions aside and listen to the people. We hope and trust this will happen.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Coming Events:</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Wednesday, September 14, 2022, 7:30PM, Arbutus Community Hall, Regular meeting. </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Wednesday, October 12, 2022, 7:30PM, Arbutus Community Hall, Regular meeting.</b></span></p>Helgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15857576040483926335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434913375593711491.post-2182537061405072782022-07-27T12:49:00.000-07:002022-07-27T12:49:36.874-07:00IN THE NEWS<p><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">By Marianne Cole</span></p><p><span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">URGENT NOTICE</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The latest Municipal Development Plan draft has been completed and up-coming meetings are planned BUT there has been very little publicity to inform people of what’s happening so we are here to do that.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Noticeable parts of the draft are:</span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">NO CHANGE to the troublesome number of subdivisions out of a quarter. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The new draft states:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Section 10.2.1: The maximum number of titled parcels that is allowed to be created in a quarter section designated Agriculture District shall be three (3)…. Any new parcels or titles created shall come out of an un-subdivided quarter section or the largest agricultural parcel within a previously subdivided quarter section.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Section 10.2.2: Notwithstanding policy 10.2.1, Clearwater County may approve the subdivision of a fourth (4th) title in a quarter section for residential or non-residential use…..</span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">Size of parcels</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Section 10.2.5: For residential parcel in the Agriculture District…that includes all or part of an existing farmstead, the parcel size shall be no less that …2.25 acres and no greater than …7acres…</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Section 10.2.6: For a residential parcel in the Agriculture District…that does not include an existing farmstead, the parcel size shall be no less than…2.25 acres and not greater than…5.00acres.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Section 10.2.7: For an agricultural small holding parcel within the Agriculture District…the parcel size shall be no less than… 8 acres and no greater than…20acres.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">NOTICE OF MEETINGS</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">1. August 3, 2022: Leslieville Community Centre, Session 1: 3:00PM – 4:30PM; Session 2: 7:00PM –8:30PM</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">2. August 4, 2022: Virtual/zoom meeting, 7:00PM – 8:30PM</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">3. August 6, 2022: Nordegg Public Services Building, 2:00PM – 3:30PM</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">4. August 10,2022: Lou Soppit Centre, Rocky Mountain House, 3:00PM – 4:30PM; 7:00PM – 8:30PM</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">5. August 11, 2022: Caroline Community Hub, 3:00PM – 4:30PM; 7:00PM – 8:30PM</span></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">CONCERNS</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Lack of publicity</b>. As of today, July 26, 2022 the only information about the draft of the MDP and the up-coming meetings has been on the County website. While the notice of the meeting is easily seen on the website, finding the copy of the draft is not. One has to check out various links on the menu before actually finding the draft of the document. This is very frustrating and time consuming, especially for people that are not tech savy. Furthermore there are many county residents, especially our older ones, that do not even have computers. To ignore their opportunity to be informed is absolutely wrong. It was very strongly indicated last year that the most effective way of informing people was through large, eye-catching ads in the Western Star.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Timing of meetings.</b> First of all it is very inconsiderate of the farming sector to have meetings now when they are very busy in the fields trying to get haying/silaging done. Also, other people may be on holidays and unable to attend. Then to have the meetings in the afternoon and evening is another indication of the lack of consideration for the farmers as that is just the time when the hay would be ready for baling, making it impossible to attend. THAT IS COMPLETELY UNACCEPTABLE.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">This MUNICIPAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN is a very important document and it is crucial that we have the greatest opportunity for input. PLEASE PASS THIS INFORMATION ON TO YOUR FRIENDS. ENCOURAGE THEM, IF POSSIBLE, TO ATTEND THE MEETINGS AS WELL AS CALL THEIR COUNCILLOR WITH THEIR OPINIONS/CONCERNS. TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Coming Events:</span> <i>Check above schedule for MDP Review Meetings</i></span></p><p><i><span style="font-size: medium;">September 14, 2022, CCTA Regular monthly meeting, 7:30PM, Arbutus Community Hall</span></i></p>Helgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15857576040483926335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434913375593711491.post-4817586387012122422022-06-03T08:07:00.000-07:002022-06-03T08:07:03.488-07:00IN THE NEWS<p><span style="font-size: medium;">By Marianne Cole</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">New CAO</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">At their May 24, 2022 council meeting Clearwater County Council ratified the appointment of Rick Emmons as our Chief Administrative Office (CAO). Following the resignation of our previous CAO Christopher Read in February, Murray Haggan had been the Interim CAO. Rick brings back years of municipal government experience at all levels and had been our highly respected CAO from 2018 – 2021. We certainly welcome him back along with the integrity and dedication he brings to the position.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">RAMP Meeting</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">At our May 11, 2022 CCTA meeting we hosted John Knapp, a consultant with Parkland County. He gave a very informative presentation on RAMP, the Regional Agricultural Management Plan that had been developed by 13 rural and urban municipalities in the Edmonton area. He began his presentation by giving alarming figures on the distinct increase in food needs, while at the same time, an amazing amount of food producing land is being lost to urban sprawl. He cautioned/advised all rural municipalities to consider protecting such land as they develop their related municipal plans/documents. We hope that this might provide significant “food for thought” as our county moves forward with the Municipal Development Plan review.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">MDP Review</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Through recent communication with the Planning Department, we have learned that the Municipal Development Plan is still under review and a request for a copy of the proposed new draft is unavailable. Council and the Planning Department did meet with Parkland Regional Planning consultant Craig Teal on Thursday, May 12, 2022 but that meeting was not open to the public and no information has been provided from it. As for a timeline for public engagement on the matter, it has been hinted that public meetings might take place in July/August with the final document to be approved in November.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The timing of public engagement to be held in July/August is particularly troubling as people are either on holidays or busy in the hayfield. There is absolutely no excuse for this.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Planning could’ve reviewed the comments from last year in the fall, presented a summary to Council in January and then completed a revised draft in February/March. They could have presented this to Council in April and public engagement meetings could’ve been held in May/June.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">When will consideration of/value for public opinion become a top priority?? It is the taxpayers of this county that will ultimately be the most affected in every way, and all efforts should be made to provide the greatest opportunity for their input. July/August doesn’t cut it.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Broadband Issues</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"> Following motions passed at the Council meeting on May 24, 2022, the internal problems with broadband issues continue. Up for discussion/decision at that meeting was 3rd reading of a bylaw to establish a Broadband Committee. First of all a motion was made by Councillor Mehlaff to table 3rd reading until the newly appointed CAO, Rick Emmons, could be brought up to speed on the current matter. This motion was </span><span style="font-size: large;">defeated 4-3 with Reeve Lougheed and Councillors Mehlaff and Ratcliffe voting in favor while Councillors Graham, Northcott, Cermak, and Swanson opposed the delay.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Councillor Swanson then moved to grant 3rd reading of the proposed bylaw to establish a Broadband Committee. This motion passed 5-2 with Reeve Lougheed and Councillors Graham, Northcott, Cermak, and Swanson in favor; Councillors Mehlaff and Ratcliffe opposed. (Note: There had previously been a Broadband Committee of which all councillors were members, but it had not met for some time and was disbanded earlier this year.)</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Following the passing of that motion to establish a Broadband Committee, Councillor Swanson then moved that the Committee members include Reeve Lougheed and Councillors Mehlhaff, Graham, Northcott, Cermak, and Swanson. Councillor Ratcliffe was excluded. This motion passed 5-2 with the same people voting for/against as the motion above. Consequently, in any future discussions/meetings of the Broadband Committee Councillor Ratcliffe will not be involved, and the opportunity for council to hear valuable information on broadband operations will be thwarted.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Furthermore, from this voting pattern, along with the comments/discussion during the meetings it seems there is a real divide on council on broadband issues, a matter that has (and will continue to) cost the county millions of questionable dollars. It seems that there is a distinct reluctance by administration to listen to, or value, input from someone with practical, first-hand knowledge on this subject. To support that reluctance for quality information, questionable rationale is sometimes being put forward to council to “justify” the need for a very pointed Broadband Policy and now an exclusive Broadband Committee. It seems that the majority of council accepts the presented rationale instead of pausing to reflect on MGA guidelines, the integrity of their teammate involved, and the real benefits of hearing proven expertise.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">In our efforts to work for the common good of county taxpayers, the CCTA has requested a review of this troublesome situation by the Office of the Ombudsman.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">No summer meetings</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">As per normal, we will not be holding meetings in July and August but we will try to keep you informed of MDP review happenings with pages in the Western Star if necessary.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Coming Events:</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Wednesday, September 14, 2022, 7:30PM, Arbutus Community Hall, regular meeting Wednesday, October 12, 2022, 7:30PM, Arbutus Community Hall, regular meeting.</b></span></p><p></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">FUNNY THOUGHT FOR THE SUMMER</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">1. What did the pig say at the beach on a hot summer’s day??? I’m bacon.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">2. Why is a ball game a good place to go on a hot day??? Because there are lots of fans.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">3. When do you go on red and stop on green?? When eating a watermelon.</span></p>Helgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15857576040483926335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434913375593711491.post-85743772034927702142022-04-06T07:43:00.000-07:002022-04-06T07:43:32.985-07:00IN THE NEWS<p><span style="font-size: medium;">By Marianne Cole</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">FOIP Reply</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">As noted in our March newsletter the CCTA had made a FOIP request to gather information on broadband expenses to date, as well as a proposed business plan. Last week we received a reply with the noted information:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “…a search…failed to retrieve any records specific to your request for Items 1 to 3”. (1… costs of fibre optic cable installation on the Sundre, Ferrier, and Nordegg backbone projects; 2… cost to install fibre from the County border to Olds; 3… copy of the business plan including capital costs, operating costs, and projected revenues)</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “However being as the County is responsive and compliant with FOIP legislation … the County decided to produce the attached financial reports responsive to Items 1 & 2”.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· “In regard to your request for Item 3, I’m confirming no record exists at this time, as it is currently under development.”</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· From the information that was provided a total of $11,636,827.90 has been spent on the broadband backbone projects in Ferrier, out to Nordegg, and towards Caroline, Sundre and Olds.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Of the above amount, a total of $2,973,956.96 has been spent on POP (Point of Presence) facilities that will house “connection” locations/operations. POP facilities are being set up in Rocky, Ferrier, Nordegg, Caroline, Olds, and Calgary. The information gathered on the size of a facility needed in each location varies from a “small bar-sized fridge type cupboard” to an ATCO sized trailer. The cost to date for the Rocky POP is $1,653,604.01.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">There continues to be confusing information regarding the “need” to go to Olds, our involvement with O-Net (a now municipally controlled internet service provider) and the need for a POP in Calgary. It is equally troubling to find out about the lack of information being given to Council on this whole matter, when they are the ones who are responsible for making fiscally reasonable decisions on our behalf.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Strategic Plan Review</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">As noted in our March Beacon, the Strategic Plan is currently under review. This document guides Council and Administration in developing general communications and operational plans. In an effort to help provide an opportunity for public input, we will be hosting Doug Griffiths, the consultant from 13 Ways at our up-coming April 13th meeting. He will begin with a presentation and then open the floor to public comments/questions. We encourage you to come and bring a friend to help provide valuable input into the development of a document that has a future impact on all taxpayers.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Caroline Seniors’ Housing Project </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">A very informative public meeting was held in Caroline on March 28th to present information on a potential seniors’ housing plan. While there is a possible plan for a facility that could provide 3 levels of care (independent living, lodge living, and supportive 24-7 care) it was noted that likely the most financially beneficial facility should focus on the independent and lodge type living. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Floor plans and descriptions of the amenities in the 3 story facility were presented, with </span><span style="font-size: large;">options for 2 bedroom “apartments” with balconies for independent living along with the 1 bedroom lodge living suites. Provision would be made for dining, visitor, and recreation areas. A proposed budget of $16M was presented along with a 5 year start to finish action plan/timeline. It was also noted that a cooperative, community stake-holder model would be beneficial in order to receive government grant funding. We wish all those involved the very best and congratulate them on their efforts to allow our seniors to happily “age in place” in our community.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Municipal Development Plan Review</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">There is no new information on the County’s review of the Municipal Development Plan, HOWEVER, the CCTA will be hosting John Knapp, a representative from Parkland County at our May 11, 2022 meeting. Parkland County is one of 13 municipal jurisdictions (both urban and rural) that worked cooperatively in 2021 to develop RAMP a Rural Agricultural Management Plan. Their efforts came as a result of concerns related to the potentially negative impact of urban sprawl and the need to protect agricultural land. We are very excited to hear about their efforts/concerns with the hope that the information presented will be helpful as our county moves forward with our MDP review. We hope to see you at this meeting…along with all your friends.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">Coming Events:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Wednesday, April 13, 2022, 7:30PM</b>, Arbutus Community Hall, Regular monthly meeting with guest speaker, Doug Griffiths on the county’s Strategic Plan review.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Wednesday, May 11, 2022, 7:30PM</b>, Arbutus Community Hall, Regular monthly meeting with guest speaker John Knapp speaking on the Rural Agricultural Management Plan developed in the Edmonton area.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Smiles for April:</span> What kind of jewellery does the Easter Bunny wear? 14 carrot gold. What happened to the Easter Bunny when he misbehaved at school? He was eggspelled.</span></p>Helgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15857576040483926335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434913375593711491.post-68177459036279719022022-03-22T08:33:00.003-07:002022-03-22T08:33:47.595-07:00Caroline Seniors Housing<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #201f1e; font-family: "Segoe UI", "Segoe UI Web (West European)", "Segoe UI", -apple-system, "system-ui", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Public meeting, Monday, March 28, 2022 at the Caroline Hub</span></b></div><div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #201f1e; font-family: "Segoe UI", "Segoe UI Web (West European)", "Segoe UI", -apple-system, "system-ui", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Display viewing begins at 6:30PM</span></b></div><div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #201f1e; font-family: "Segoe UI", "Segoe UI Web (West European)", "Segoe UI", -apple-system, "system-ui", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Formal presentation at 7:00PM</span></b></div><div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #201f1e; font-family: "Segoe UI", "Segoe UI Web (West European)", "Segoe UI", -apple-system, "system-ui", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Discussion to follow on the proposed Seniors Housing project.</span></b></div><div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #201f1e; font-family: "Segoe UI", "Segoe UI Web (West European)", "Segoe UI", -apple-system, "system-ui", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Everyone welcome.</span></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div>Helgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15857576040483926335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434913375593711491.post-62248289156742245612022-03-04T12:29:00.000-08:002022-03-04T12:29:01.224-08:00IN THE NEWS<p><span style="font-size: medium;">By Marianne Cole</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">County/Village of Caroline Amalgamation</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"> This matter was recently discussed at the February 22, 2022 County Council meeting. An earlier study/suggestion had evaluated the possibility of a union of the town of Rocky, village of Caroline, and Clearwater County. This subsequently determined that the most beneficial plan would be a simpler union of just the county and village. At council’s recent meeting a consulting firm, Nichols Applied Management, provided the following information:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· The village has a balanced operating budget but a sizable infrastructure deficit.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Without assistance, the village is facing a potential dissolution.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· The County, as the adjacent governing body, would then be required to absorb the village.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· The County has the capacity to absorb the village without a substantial adverse financial impact.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">If an amalgamation were to proceed, this would be the scenario:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Negotiations with the two jurisdictions would occur.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· The village would give up its status as a village and return to a hamlet in the county.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· The county would be responsible for delivering services to Caroline. Existing staff would become part of the county.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· A transition team comprised of representatives of both the county and village would address consolidation matters.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Discussion will now take place between Caroline village council, Clearwater County council, and Municipal Affairs. We encourage residents of each area are to contact their councillors to express their opinions/concerns.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Regional Waste Authority</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">After termination of the previous Rocky Mountain Regional Waste Authority in March 2020 our county waste disposal has been operating independently. Certainly we are likely all aware of the changes that have occurred with the town transfer station, opening of a new one up by the airport, and the uses of county waste disposal cards. At the February county council meeting matters related to waste disposal were discussed, most notably:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· A Net Asset Distribution Agreement between the town, village, and county is proposed. Information provided indicates that as of December 31, 2020 there was an accumulated surplus of $7.4M with a net cash and temporary investment of $11M. The Distribution Agreement proposes that the Net Asset Value be distributed as follows: 65.03% to the county, 33.13% to the town, and 1.84% to the village.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· The future of the county’s solid waste management is under review with the assistance of Tetra Tech Canada. Currently the county operates 9 rural transfer stations, one “temporary” transfer station (the one up by the airport), and a Regional Landfill. Together county staff and Tetra</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Tech will evaluate current operations and outline a plan for the future. It is anticipated that public engagement will also occur, potentially through mail-out surveys, on-line surveys, virtual meetings, and open house meetings. We will keep you posted.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Strategic Plan</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The Strategic Plan is a document that helps guide county council with planning and economic development policies. Following a motion made at their February 8th meeting, council moved to replace the current 2019-2022 Strategic Plan with a new one for 2022-2025. 13 Ways Inc. has been hired as consultants for this process. At their most recent meeting, Council approved an additional $32,000 in cost for the project, for a total of $51,975.00. This increase was approved to help cover consultant costs due, in part, to increased public engagement. We are not sure what public engagement activities may be involved.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">CAO Position</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">Following the resignation of Christopher Read, Deputy CAO, Murray Hagan was appointed Interim CAO. The process has now started to hire a permanent CAO and this will likely take 2-3 months.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Broadband </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">As mentioned in previous newsletters this continues to be a contentious issue due to the lack of financial information available. On Wednesday, February 16, 2022 the CCTA filed a FOIP request asking for information on the costs and projected revenues for the county’s broadband activities to date along with future plans. We will share this information when it becomes available.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Smiles for March: </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">What is a leprechaun’s favorite type of music? Sham-rock’n roll. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">What do ghosts drink on St. Patrick’s Day? BOO’s </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">How can you tell if an Irishman is having a good time? He’s Dublin over with laughter.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Coming Events:</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Wednesday, March 9, 2022, 7:30PM, Regular monthly meeting, Arbutus Com. Hall</i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Wednesday, April 13, 2022, 7:30PM, Regular monthly meeting, Arbutus Community Hall.</i></span></p>Helgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15857576040483926335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434913375593711491.post-62447954420348077002022-02-01T14:05:00.000-08:002022-02-01T14:05:52.718-08:00IN THE NEWS<p><span style="font-size: medium;">By Marianne Coe</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Broadband</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">This continues to be a troubling topic both in Council chambers and in the community. At the January 11th Council meeting Councillor Ratcliffe brought forward 2 motions essentially promoting the opportunities for this new council to get further information on improving connectivity in the county. Throughout the discussion he was repeatedly being accused of pecuniary interest, most notably by the CAO at that time. While Councillor Ratcliffe does have a vested interest in Light Link Technologies, his motions were simply an attempt to suggest information opportunities that would enable this council to make potentially more beneficial decisions on broadband. No contract or actual business ventures were involved so the accusation of pecuniary interest was questionable.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">In the end a motion to invite local ISP’s to make presentations to council was passed. We hope that these opportunities will provide council with valuable information.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">In the meantime, we hosted Phil Swanson from Missing Link at our January 12th CCTA meeting. Missing Link currently operates 30 towers in Clearwater County and has 300 customers in our area. Here are some noteworthy points gathered from that meeting:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Fibre optic cable is not the complete answer. It is very costly to install but definitely useful when towers aren’t efficient in our topography. A combination of both towers and cable is necessary.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Starlink is currently putting up numerous Low Orbit Satellites and this is a positive venture. Future service may, however, become a problem as usage increases and weather interferes.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· The County is currently installing 144 strand fibre in its backbone projects while most ISP’s are using 24 strand. It is definitely questionable why businesses directly involved with broadband operations have found it workable to use a more reasonably priced product. Apparently 144 strand is 3 times as expensive.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· The need to put fibre optic cable all the way to Olds to connect to O-Net remains a HUGE question. Originally the need was “justified” to avoid “redundancy” and to ensure constant service should local providers “go down”. Currently there are 4 local internet service providers in Rocky (Bell/Axia, Shaw, Zao, and Telus). While they use only 2 “channels “ of fibre optic cable, the chances of a total malfunction by all 4 is highly unlikely.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Moreover, O-Net is in very serious financial trouble. As reported in the January 5, 2022 issue of Mountain View Today, O-Net currently has a “debt and a line of credit totalling $18 million” and its future is uncertain.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Why are we even thinking of spending $3-4 million of our tax dollars to put fibre in the ground to connect to an operation that might also end up “in the ground”? It is urgent that Council get complete accurate information on our current expenditures on this endeavor, along with O-Net’s future. Clearwater County taxpayers should not be on the hook for something we absolutely may not benefit from.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Fire Truck Purchase</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">A more recent issue has been raised regarding the purchase of a new ladder truck to replace a 20 year old unit. As this would be a purchase involving Clearwater Regional Fire Services, both town and county are involved.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">This issue was discussed at length at the January 25th County Council meeting with excellent information and questions begin brought forward by both councillors and staff. It might be worth your time to watch the meeting on your computer.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The county has approved a budget of up to $1.8M for this purchase while the town is budgeting $1.2M on this shared responsibility. Although the need for replacement is recognized there are some questions that remain:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Why is a 100 ft. ladder necessary, rather than the current length of 75 ft.?</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Why is a “Pierce” truck needed instead of the more reasonable “Rosenbauer”? (The comment has been heard that this is like comparing a Cadillac to a more reasonably priced GM product.)</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Would putting the procurement of this truck out to tender result in a better price?</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">This matter will be discussed further by an Intermunicipal Collaboration Committee and then brought back to each council for approval.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Municipal Development Plan </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Council recently directed the Planning Department to review last year’s public engagement comments, make revisions, and bring back a revised draft to Council. The process for more public engagement is also being reviewed.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">As mentioned earlier the CCTA had made a request under FOIP to get copies of the comments made during public engagement opportunities organized by the county. We did receive copies and presented the results at our January 12th meeting. We hope you enjoy the summary below. Option 1 included phone calls, letters, and comments made during the various meetings. Option 2 included comments made online and through social media.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">SUMMARY OF OPINIONS RE THE MUNICIPAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN REVIEW</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Import opportunity Supportive of Opposed to Supportive Opposed</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b> MDP changes MDP changes of process to process </b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Option 1 43 100 0 47</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Option 2 37 66 1 17</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Total 80 166 1 64</b></span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Funny February Questions:</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Who always has a date on Valentine’s Day?? A calendar. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">What did one boat say to another on Valentine’s Day? Are you up for a little row-mance?</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">What did the ghost say to his valentine? You look so BOOtiful!!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Coming Events:</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Wednesday, February 9, 2022, 7:30PM, Arbutus Community Hall, regular meeting</i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Wednesday, March 9, 2022, 7:30PM, Arbutus Community Hall, regular meeting</i></span></p>Helgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15857576040483926335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434913375593711491.post-72205914225030095082022-01-07T12:23:00.000-08:002022-01-07T12:23:11.372-08:00IN THE NEWS<p><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">By Marianne Cole</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Breaking News</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Christopher Read, CAO for Clearwater County has resigned, effective February 13, 2022. Mr. Read joined the County’s Administration team officially on June 1, 2021 and will be leaving his position here to take on a new position in Jasper.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Welcome to New (and Returning) Board Members</span> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">As a result of our Annual General Meeting in November we welcome one new board member, one returning after a brief absence, and one taking on a new position, along with six returnees. The 2022 Board is as follows: President: Marianne Cole; Vice-President: Tim Plante (former Director); Secretary: Susan Durand; Treasurer: Pat Butler; Directors: Jim Foesier, Al Gaetz, Larry Titford, Ken Qually (returning after brief absence) and Ron Schultz (new member). We thank Helge Nome who continues as our Communications Coordinator, managing our website, and former Board Member Jim Pearson for his long time support. We look forward to working together for the benefit of taxpayers in our county.</span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: medium;">2022 Budget </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Earlier in December our County Council met to deliberate the 2022 Operating and Capital Budgets. A simplified chart of the proposed figures for revenues and expenses is included below:</span></p><p><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Clearwater County's 2022 Proposed Budget Information</span></b></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Description </i><i>2021 Budget 2022 Proposed Increase/ Decrease</i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Operating Revenues $53,502,641 $54,502,641 +$1,000,000</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Capital Revenues $4,190,834 $16,771,250 +$12,580,416</span></p><p><i><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Total Revenues $57,693,475 $71,273,891 +$13,580,416</span></b></i></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Operating Expenses $60,444,314 $63,022,071 +$2,577,757</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Capital Expenses $41,007,981 $52,379,099 +$11,371,118</span></p><p><i><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Total Expenses $101,452,295 $115,401,170 +$13,948,875</span></b></i></p><p><i><b><span style="font-size: medium;"> a 13% Increase</span></b></i></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><i><b>Note: Operating expenses include items for the daily operation of the County such as utilities, </b></i><i><b>salaries, etc. Capital expenses include special projects like road building, equipment purchases, etc.</b></i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The difference in revenue and expenses is expected to be resolved by accessing money from our reserves. There is also a potential that council could approve a tax increase when that deliberation takes place in a couple of months.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Interesting comparisons: Red Deer County’s projected 2021 Capital and Operating Expenses were $98,520,561, while the budgeted expenses for 2022 are being REDUCED about $20M to $78,407,869.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Their expense budget is $36,993,301 LESS than Clearwater County’s. In addition, Lacombe County’s 2022 budget shows a combined expense total of $81, 365, 060 which is $34,036,110 less than ours.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">(Note: The 2021 figures for all jurisdictions were the ones projected last year and won’t be verified until Audited Financial Statements are provided in April/May.)</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Broadband </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">This continues to be a topic of varied opinion and questionable cost. In the December 21st Mountaineer it was reported the Councillor Ratcliffe put forward a Notice of Motion to invite Missing Link ( a local Internet Service Provider/ISP) to join Council in an in camera information meeting. Missing Link is a well-known, successful ISP who could provide this Council with very helpful, practical information on broadband operations. The CCTA has repeatedly suggested that Council and Administration could benefit greatly from gathering information from the “people with their feet on the ground” as the success and continued operation of their businesses depend on making sound financial decisions.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">We trust that this current Council will value the opportunity to gather needed practical, proven information and pass Councillor Ratcliffe’s motion at their up-coming January 11, 2022 meeting. We would certainly encourage meetings with other ISP’s as well.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Clearwater Regional Fire and Rescue Services </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">As many of you may have heard, our Clearwater Regional Fire Chief has resigned. A number of rumors have surfaced, but as this is a confidential matter, the CCTA cannot publish/put forward any information. It is the duty of the County and Town Councils, along with Administration, to deal with this issue.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Guest Speaker Coming</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"> Because of the importance of hearing/learning valuable information on improving broadband connectivity in a financially responsible manner, we will be hosting Phil Swanson from Missing Link at our January 12, 2022 meeting. We urge everyone to come and bring a friend to this open, hopefully informative, presentation.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">UP-COMING MEETINGS:</span> Wednesday, January 12, 2022, 7:30PM, Arbutus Community Hall, Guest speaker, Phil Swanson from Missing Link; Wednesday, February 9, 2022, 7:30PM, Arbutus Community Hall, Regular Meeting.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">THOUGHT FOR THE NEW YEAR: </span>“We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and its first chapter is New Year’s Day.” Edith Lovejoy Pierce.</span></p>Helgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15857576040483926335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5434913375593711491.post-33100827231924312792021-11-21T12:31:00.000-08:002021-11-21T12:31:20.624-08:00CLEARWATER COUNTY TAXPAYERS’ ASSOCIATION ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING - 2021 YEAR IN REVIEW REPORT<p><span style="font-size: medium;">By Marianne Cole</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Generally this has been a difficult year to maintain and promote our organization due to Covid 19 restrictions. As a result we were only able to hold 4 meetings (March, June, September, and October) before this AGM. In spite of these limited meetings we continued to make an impact in our county. The most notable have been:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Western Star Wrap, January 20, 2021 </span></span><span style="font-size: large;">This very visible, informative wrap gave Clearwater County residents valuable information on the MDP review that many were completely unaware was even taking place. As a result we received:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· 124 written responses in just 10 days, compared to the 62 received by the County during their August-September 2020 input “campaign”.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Phone calls of concern with the review as well as words of appreciation for our efforts.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· Copies of additional letters written to the County Council expressing concerns with the proposed MDP.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Participation in Virtual MDP Review Meetings in January/February</span> </span><span style="font-size: large;">From my records there were 188 County residents that participated in the 8 meeting for an average of 23.5 per meeting. (Compared to the total of 574 that participated in the 2008-2010 MDP Review meetings.) During those virtual meetings it was clear that there were serious concerns with the new proposed plan.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Attendance at the In-Person/Town Hall MDP Review Meetings in June </span>At least one member of the CCTA was at each one of those meetings and verified a most dismal attendance at each one. Again we witnessed general strong opposition to the proposed MDP draft, most notably with the increase in sub-divisions to be allowed per quarter.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">CCTA Board Meeting with Murray Hagan and Christopher Read</span> This meeting was held to address our concerns re the following issues noted in our May 30th and June 17th letters to Council. The following issues were discussed:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· <span style="color: #3d85c6;">MDP Review Process</span> Our concern (supported by the significant requests for such) was the need for more opportunities for public engagement. In our discussion we were told that it is Council’s decision as to how they would like to proceed with the review process. As such it would be up to Council to decide on the value of a survey that we have repeatedly asked for.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">· <span style="color: #3d85c6;">Broadband </span>Our letters had expressed concerns over the accuracy of information being given publicly, the lack of a business plan, and the perceived unwillingness to accept valid information from local ISP’s. In response, during the meeting the following highlights were noted:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Administration has tried to gather helpful information from the ISP’s and while local ones wanted a joint meeting, the larger “big guys” didn’t.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The high quality of fibre optic cable purchased by the County will last 50 years and it is better to use quality material as the County needs to be good stewards of taxpayer </span><span style="font-size: large;">dollar</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The current backbone project will allow for increased use in the future.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The fibre to Nordegg project was originally planned for the last phase of the backbone project but has been promoted due to an increase in demand.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Connectivity to Olds was justified in order to provide more secure service in case of system failure with the two current connectivity providers (Telus and the Supernet/Shaw).</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">The business plan is a work in progress and it is extremely important to Administration. They are currently working to gather accurate information, but there does seemed to be a bit of a conflict between Council and Administration on how to proceed.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">The MDP Review and Broadband</span> continue to be very important matters that this new Council will have to deal with. As such it is absolutely crucial that:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Council receives the most accurate, unbiased information on all matters.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">A variety of methods of gathering information are undertaken with the understanding that many County residents don’t have adequate connectivity and/or are not technologically savvy. It is, however, very important that all County residents be given equal opportunity for input into matters that will ultimately affect them.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The authority given to Council through the Municipal Government Act must be recognized and accepted. Council has duties “to consider the welfare and interests of the municipality as a whole…” (MGA, Section 153.a) and they are “responsible for making sure that the powers, duties, and functions of the municipality are appropriately carried out.” (MGA Section 201.1.b)</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">We are most thankful to the past Council members for their participation in our meetings along with their helpful information and support. As the next year unfolds, we trust that this spirit of cooperation will continue as we all “work together for the common good.”</span></p>Helgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15857576040483926335noreply@blogger.com0