Bylaw 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

Home , Girouxville, Little Smoky River, Smoky River, Upper Peace Region, Watino, Whitemud Creek

Municipal Development Plan Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130onth X, 2016

Prepared by: Bylaw No. 16-886 October 2016

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

CONTENTS Acknowledgements ...... 1 Part 1 Overview ...... 2 Introduction ...... 2 Purpose of the Municipal Development Plan and Enabling Legislation ...... 2 Interpretation ...... 3 Action Items ...... 3 Context ...... 4 Community History ...... 4 Regional and Geographic Context ...... 6 Planning Context ...... 9 Community Profile ...... 10 Planning Process ...... 24 Part 2 Direction ...... 26 Part 3 Objectives and Policies...... 27 3.1 Plans, Subdivision and Development Management...... 27 3.2 Agricultural Lands ...... 32 Confined Feeding Operations ...... 35 3.3 Country Residential Development ...... 38 3.4 Hamlets ...... 40 3.5 Commerce and Industry ...... 44 3.6 Recreation, Open Space and Historic Resources ...... 47 3.7 Infrastructure ...... 49 3.8 Environmental Conservation ...... 53 3.9 Crown Land ...... 56 3.10 Intermunicipal Planning and Cooperation ...... 57 Part 4 Implementation ...... 58 Monitoring and Review ...... 58 Review ...... 58 Plans, Bylaws, Permits and Programs ...... 58 Development Checklist ...... 58

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

Plan Consistency ...... 58 Land Use Bylaw Update ...... 58 Action Items...... 59 Part 5 Schedules ...... 60 Schedule A: Future Land Use Concept ...... 61 Schedule B: Siting Restrictions for Confined Feeding Operations ...... 62 Schedule C: Hydrological Map ...... 63 Part 6 Appendices ...... 64 Appendix A – Glossary of Terms ...... 64 Appendix B – Community Survey and Report ...... 67

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 would like to thank the members of the Steering Committee for their commitment and enthusiasm during the development of this plan, as well as their consideration of and direction on the many varied and controversial topics that may affect the future of the Municipal District.

Committee Members

 Marc Bremont, Council Representative  Diane Chiasson, Member at Large  Dan Dibbelt, Member at Large  Donald Dumont, Committee Chair

The Steering Committee was supported by staff from the Municipal District and the Mackenzie Municipal Services Agency.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130

 Rita Therriault, Chief Administrative Officer  Dave Gervais, Development Officer

Mackenzie Municipal Services Agency

 Havan Surat, Planning Manager  Kate Churchill, Municipal Planner  Tom Deming, Planning Technician

The development of the Municipal Development Plan could only be undertaken with the direction of Council. Thank you to the members of the Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Council for your foresight and for providing the impetus for preparing and completing this plan.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

PART 1 OVERVIEW

INTRODUCTION The Municipal Development Plan (MDP) is the primary planning policy document for local governments in Alberta. The MDP provides direction for future change, growth and development within the Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130. This plan is the Municipal District’s second MDP.

The preparation of the MDP has been motivated by a number of factors.

1. The Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 had not updated their MDP since 2005. 2. The Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Land Use Bylaw No. 865 was reviewed and updated in 2014 and the MDP is to be consistent with the revised document.

PURPOSE OF THE MUNICIPAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN AND ENABLING LEGISLATION A MDP provides clear direction for the Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130’s Council and Administration. The MDP is intended to guide growth, change, and development in the Municipal District by

 defining the vision, principles, goals, and policies of the Municipal District with respect to planning matters,  minimizing the occurrence of incompatible land uses, and  providing support and direction for the administration of the Land Use Bylaw and the preparation of other statutory planning documents.

The MDP, in addition to applicable Provincial legislation

 provides the necessary direction to assist Council, the Development Authority, and the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board in making land use decisions,  provides a foundation for the preparation of more detailed land use plans,  is intended to be used in conjunction with the Municipal District’s Land Use Bylaw to implement the policies of this MDP, and  informs residents and developers of the Municipal District’s future land use strategy.

The MDP includes a community vision for the residents and property owners of the Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130. Furthermore, the MDP informs residents, developers and investors with respect to what type of development is desired and identifies the preferred locations.

This Municipal Development Plan has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of Section 632 of the Municipal Government Act and will become a statutory document upon adoption. The legal framework and process for Council to adopt an MDP is established in the Municipal Government Act. As MDPs are municipal bylaws, they are legal documents. If Council would like to

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

allow development that contravenes the MDP, Council must first amend the MDP through a process that will provide opportunities for public input.

In accordance with the Municipal Government Act, the MDP must address

 future land use,  proposals for future development,  co-ordination with adjacent municipalities,  transportation,  municipal services and facilities,  school and municipal reserves,  protection of agricultural operations, and  land uses adjacent to sour gas facilities.

In addition, the Municipal Government Act allows the MDP to address a number of other considerations which this plan will consider as necessary for the Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130. These include

 coordination of physical, social and economic development,  environmental matters,  development constraints,  economic development,  financing and programming of municipal infrastructure, and  financial resources.

INTERPRETATION When interpreting the policy statements within this MDP document, the document should be read in its entirety to provide context. Policies are written using “shall”, “should” or “may” statements. The interpretations of “shall”, “should” and “may” that follow may provide the reader with a greater understanding of the intent of each policy statement:

 Shall/Will/Must – denotes compliance or adherence to a preferred course of action.  Should – denotes compliance is desired or advised but may be impractical or premature because of valid planning principles or unique/extenuating circumstances.  May – denotes discretionary compliance or a choice in applying policy.

ACTION ITEMS Over 10 Action Items have been highlighted throughout the document by the following symbol AI. These include both amendments to the Land Use Bylaw and a number of other plans and initiatives that would move the Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 towards the vision outlined in Part 2. The Municipal District should work towards completing each of these action items, which will take a number of years to complete.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

CONTEXT

COMMUNITY HISTORY The Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 is named after the Smoky River which forms the northwestern boundary of the Municipal District. The Municipal District encompasses much of the heart of the French Canadian community in the Peace River region. Many long-time residents are descendants of the Franco-American and Quebecois settlers that arrived in the early 1900s to pursue a life of farming. Missionaries, fur traders and prospectors had been exploring the area since the 1800s but the French Canadian colony was founded by Bishop Grouard and Fathers Giroux and Falher in 19121. Prior to European settlement, the area was inhabited by several different First Nations communities including the Woodland Cree and the Beaver (Dunne-za)2.

The Municipal District was originally formed as Improvement District No. 130 in 1945 and became the Municipal District of Fillion No. 130 in 1951 when parts of three different Improvement Districts were combined3. The name was changed to the Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 in 1952.

1 Source: Hursey, Roberta. 1996 2 Source: Hursey, Roberta. 1996. First Nations groups were moved onto reserves throughout the region following the signing of Treaty 8 in 1899 and 1900 in Grouard, Alberta. 3 Source: AB Municipal Affairs, Location and History Profile, 2015

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

FIGURE 1: REGIONAL MAP OF MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF SMOKY RIVER NO. 130

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

REGIONAL AND GEOGRAPHIC CONTEXT The Municipal District encompasses two hamlets, Guy and Jean Côté. Four urban municipalities are located within the Municipal District’s municipal boundary: the Town of Falher, the Town of McLennan, the Village of Donnelly and the Village of Girouxville.

FIGURE 2: MUNICIPAL CONTEXT MAP OF MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF SMOKY RIVER NO. 130

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

The Municipal District is surrounded by four adjacent municipalities including:  Northern Sunrise County to the north,  Big Lakes County to the east,  The Municipal District of Greenview No. 16 to the south, and  Birch Hills County to the west.

The Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 is located in the Upper Peace Region of the province, a land use area delineated along a major watershed and one of the largest water basins in the province, the Peace and Slave River Water Basin.

Regarding driving distances and proximity to major centres, the Municipal District office located in the Town of Falher is approximately 69 km (42 mi) from Peace River to the north, 430 km (267 mi) from Edmonton to the southeast, and 167 km (103 mi) from Grande Prairie to the southwest.

The Municipal District consists primarily of agricultural lands but also includes  urban areas,  two major river systems and their tributaries,  industrial lands,  lakes, and  forested areas,  wetlands. The majority of land within the Municipal District is classified under the Dry Mixedwood Natural Subregion4 which is characterized by gently rolling plains. This Subregion enjoys the warmest summers and highest number of growing degree days of all the boreal subregions. About 70% of the annual precipitation occurs from April to August5.

FOREST COVER Most of the Municipal District’s land has been cleared, with very little mature forest remaining, and active clearing still occurs. Native vegetation consists of mixed forest dominated by aspen poplar with understories of rose, low-bush cranberry, beaked hazelnut and buffaloberry6. Wet areas contain black spruce, tamarak, dwarf birch, sphagnum moss, sedges, reeds and coarse grasses7.

WATERCOURSES The Municipal District encompasses 2 major watercourses, the Smoky River and the Little Smoky River, as well as several minor watercourses. The Smoky River begins in the Rocky Mountains north of Jasper at Adolphus Lake (Figure 3) and flows northeast through several municipalities to where it flows into the Peace River just south of the Town of Peace River. The Smoky River is the northwestern boundary of the Municipal District and the Little Smoky River cuts a diagonal course through the southwestern portion of the FIGURE 3: ADOLPHUS LAKE, JASPER NATIONAL PARK, HEADWATER OF THE SMOKY RIVER. 4 Based on the Alberta Land Classification System: the Natural Regions and Subregions of Alberta. 5 Source: AB ESRD, Regional Forest Landscape Assessment, Upper Peace Region, 2012 6 Source: AB ESRD, Regional Forest Landscape Assessment, Upper Peace Region, 2012 7 Source: Smoky River Land Use Survey, Peace River Regional Planning Commission, 1980

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

Municipal District and meanders northwestward where it flows into the Smoky River. Both rivers are part of the Peace and Slave River Watershed and have carved fertile valleys abundant in vegetation. The steep slopes are unsuitable for development but provide ideal habitat and wintering ground for wildlife such as deer and moose8.

The Smoky and Little Smoky river valleys, as well as the smaller tributaries of the Little Smoky River, including Peavine Creek, Wabatanisk Creek, and Clouston Creek, provide important wildlife corridors. Protection of these corridors may be enhanced through discretionary application of the Province’s Key Wildlife Biodiversity Zone guidelines. Lalby Creek drains Lac Magloire into Hunting Creek, a tributary of the Smoky River, while Gunns and McLeans Creek drain the Muskeg Lakes9 (see Map 3).

WATER BODIES There are seven named lakes in the Municipal District that are all located in the eastern half of the municipality. The size of the lakes fluctuates from year to year depending on multiple variables, including the amount of precipitation and changes to the drainage system.

Lake Area Value Lac Magloire 1,920 acres (7.8 Shallow and marshy eutrophic lake, important km2) waterfowl habitat. Legal access but no recreation potential. Kimiwan Lake 7,680 acres (31 Eutrophic lake. Town of McLennan located on km2) southern shore. Important regional wetland and bird habitat with good recreation potential. Winagami Lake 1,920 acres (within Western portion of lake within the Municipal the Municipal District. Winagami Lake Provincial Park is located District) (7.8 km2) along the eastern shore. Important regional wetland and bird habitat with good recreation potential. Rat Lake 320 acres (1.3 km2) Marshy and eutrophic, very little recreational value but high ecological value. Maurice Lake 640 acres (2.6 km2) Marshy and eutrophic, very little recreational value but high ecological value. Muskeg Lakes 320 acres (1.3 km2) Three small, shallow and swampy lakes with very little recreational value but high ecological value. Halfway Lake 160 acres (0.6 km2) Marshy and eutrophic, very little recreational value but high ecological value.

8 Source: Smoky River Land Use Survey, Peace River Regional Planning Commission, 1980 9 Source: Smoky River Land Use Survey, Peace River Regional Planning Commission, 1980

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

PLANNING CONTEXT

ALBERTA LAND USE POLICIES In 1996, the Alberta Government released its Land Use Policies. All municipalities must implement these policies while undertaking their planning responsibilities. These policies provide direction for the municipality to address both general and specific land use planning issues. The Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 will ensure that the vision, goals and policies of the MDP are consistent with the Land Use Policies.

Alberta Land Use Policy Area Addressed by MDP Section The Planning Process 3.1, Planning Cooperation 3.9, 3.10 Land Use Patterns 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.8 The Natural Environment 3.6, 3.8 Resource Conservation 3.2, 3.6, 3.8 Transportation 3.7 Residential Development 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.6

LAND USE FRAMEWORK The Province of Alberta is currently in the process of developing seven regional plans with two completed thus far (Lower Athabasca Regional Plan and the South Saskatchewan Regional Plan). The seven regions are congruent with the province’s major watersheds and are aligned with municipal boundaries. The development of the Upper Peace Regional Plan, which will include the Municipal District, has not yet begun.

JOINT GENERAL MUNICIPAL PLAN NO. 522 The Municipal District, in cooperation with the Village of Girouxville, the Village of Donnelly, the Town of McLennan, and the Town of Falher, developed this land use plan in 1984. The Plan includes policies to manage agriculture, residential, industrial, transportation, utilities, recreation, and the environment.

LAND USE BYLAW NO. 865 As required by the Municipal Government Act, the Municipal District has adopted a land use bylaw that regulates the use and development of all lands in the municipality. The Municipal District’s Land Use Bylaw No. 865 was updated in 2014. (The land use bylaw may be updated subsequent to the completion of this MDP). The land use bylaw is a key implementation tool of the Municipal Development Plan.

DONNELLY CORNER AREA STRUCTURE PLAN NO. 786 The Donnelly Corner ASP provides a framework for the development of fully serviced commercial, industrial and residential lands known as “Donnelly Corner.” The Plan area encompasses the junction of Highway 49 and Highway 2, it spans both the corporate boundaries of the Village of

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

Donnelly and the Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 and, subsequently is considered a joint area structure plan. The plan was adopted by both municipalities in 2007.

INTEGRATED COMMUNITY SUSTAINABILITY PLAN The ICSP is a plan that was created through the New Deal for Cities and Communities (NDCC) program between Canada and Alberta. Financial assistance was provided to municipalities to support sustainable capital infrastructure projects. This Plan, created in 2008, listed 8 goals related to sustainability within the Municipal District including; improving water quality, reducing environmental impacts, and the support of agriculture best practices.

COMMUNITY PROFILE

LAND BASE The Municipal District includes a total land area of 703,505 acres (284,698 ha). Lands within the Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 include privately owned, publicly owned by the Municipal District, owned by the Province of Alberta, or leased to the Municipal District by the Province.

Land Use Type Area % Agriculture 583,786 acres (236,250 ha) 82.50 Crown 118,650 acres (48,016 ha) 17.35 Hamlet 497 acres (201 ha) 0.07 Donnelly Corner 175 acres (71 ha) 0.02 Industrial 153 acres (62 ha) 0.02 Country Residential 126 acres (51 ha) 0.02 Commercial 118 acres (48 ha) 0.02

POPULATION The population of the Municipal District, according to the 2011 Census, is 2,126. As Table 1 illustrates, the population has decreased by almost half since 1966 with a sharp decline between 1971 and 1976. This sharp decrease in population was likely a result of farmers leaving the region following the largescale purchasing of land by an alfalfa pellet plant corporation and the subsequent increase in land values in the Municipal District.

A slight increase between 1976 and 1981 was followed by a slow but steady decline until 2006 when the population almost reached 2,500. Since 2006 the population has declined to its lowest point at 2,126.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

TABLE 1: MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF SMOKY RIVER NO. 130 POPULATION TREND TO 201110

4,500 4,094 3,984 4,000

3,500 2,990 2,812 2,858 3,000 2,613 2,491 2,379 2,442 2,500 2,126 2,000

Population Population 1,500

1,000

500

0 1966 1971 1976 1981 1986 1991 1996 2001 2006 2011 Year

TABLE 2: MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF SMOKY RIVER NO. 130 POPULATION BY AGE AND GENDER, 201111

85 years and over 80 to 84 years 75 to 79 years 70 to 74 years 65 to 69 years 60 to 64 years

55 to 59 years

50 to 54 years 45 to 49 years 40 to 44 years Male

Age Age (Years) 35 to 39 years 30 to 34 years Female 25 to 29 years 20 to 24 years 15 to 19 years 10 to 14 years 5 to 9 years 0 to 4 years

-150 -100 -50 0 50 100 150 10 Source: Stats Canada, M.D. of Smoky River No.130Population Community Profile, 2011 11 Source: Stats Canada, M.D. of Smoky River No.130 Community Profile, 2011

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

As Table 2 illustrates, almost 80% of the population is over the age of 15. The largest cohort groups are under the age of 20 and between the ages of 40 and 59. The population decreases significantly for the 20-39 age cohort. The average number of persons per family in the Municipal District is 2.9 which is on par with other communities within the region.

An unusual characteristic of the Municipal District’s population is the greater number of men than women over the age of 65 (Table 2), compared to the rest of the region in Division No. 19, where women 65 year old and older outnumber men (Table 3).

TABLE 3: DIVISION NO. 19 POPULATION BY AGE AND GENDER, 201112

85 years and over 80 to 84 years 75 to 79 years 70 to 74 years 65 to 69 years 60 to 64 years

55 to 59 years

50 to 54 years 45 to 49 years 40 to 44 years Male

Age Age (Years) 35 to 39 years 30 to 34 years Female 25 to 29 years 20 to 24 years 15 to 19 years 10 to 14 years 5 to 9 years 0 to 4 years -6000 -4000 -2000 0 2000 4000 6000 Population

TRANSPORTATION The Municipal District is serviced through a variety of transportation systems; including seven provincial highways, a well-developed network of local roads, rail service, and a community airport.

ROADS The Municipal District encompasses 1,780 km of maintained open roads13. The local road network, including 1,002 km of gravel roads, provides good traffic movement throughout most of the Municipal District.

12 Source: Stats Canada, Community Profile, 2011

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

The following provincial highways (Figure 2) connect residents, businesses and tourists to major service centres and recreational points of interest throughout the region.

 Highway 49  Highway 676  Highway 2  Highway 679  Highway 2A  Highway 744  Highway 747

AIRPORT

The Donnelly Airport is a cost-shared facility run by the Smoky River Regional Airport Board. It includes a 914 m (3,000 ft) lit runway with a GPS landing approach. It is located 10 km east of Falher and is used for both personal and commercial use including Medivac, aerial sprayers, charters and energy companies. The Municipal District is the Operating Authority and the airport is managed by the Airport Board.

RAILWAY

Approximately 40 km of active CN-owned railway travels through the Municipal District. The rail line transports freight within the Municipal District between the Town of Falher, the Town of McLennan, and the Village of Donnelly. The track continues travelling north to the Village of Nampa and the Town of Peace River; and south to the Town of High Prairie. The trend over the last several years has been the decommissioning of active rail line, particularly west of Falher.

BRIDGES There are 135 bridges within the Municipal District that range from small culvert bridges (1.5 m) to larger bridges spanning large water bodies. Three steel bridges include one spanning the Smoky River and two spanning the Little Smoky River (Figure 4) that are operated and maintained by the provincial government as part of the provincial highways network.

13 Source: AB Municipal Affairs, Municipal Profile, Statistics, 2015

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

FIGURE 4: BRIDGE CROSSING THE LITTLE SMOKY RIVER AT ALDERIDGE RD.

UTILITIES The hamlets of Guy and Jean Côté receive water and sewer services from the Municipal District. Since 2000, the Smoky River Water Co-op has served over 300 residences in the Municipal District. Water treatment is provided by the Smoky River Regional Water Commission which draws water from the Little Smoky River. Water is treated at a treatment facility located northwest of the Town of Falher. The storage capacity of the treated water reservoir is 300,000 gallons (1,136 m3) and the maximum treatment capacity of the facility is 2,500 m3/day. The treatment facility was upgraded in January and July of 2015. In 2014 the entire region used an average of 700 m3/day14.

Stormwater management in the Municipal District consists of bypass ditches within the hamlets. Drainage patterns within the Municipal District are influenced by local topography and alterations made to the landscape. The Municipal District manages 21 drainage projects throughout the municipality (see Schedule C) to assist with flood control, erosion control and drainage.

SERVICES Three landfills are available for garbage disposal throughout the Municipal District: one is located east of Guy, one is located south of Jean Côté and a third one is located in the southwest portion of

14 Conversation with Manager of the Smoky River Regional Water Commission, September 11, 2015.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

the Municipal District near Whitemud Creek (Figure 2). Recycling bins are not currently available in any of the hamlets, but the Municipal District sponsors recycling bins in the Town of Falher, the Town of McLennan, the Village of Girouxville and the Village of Donnelly.

Fire protection services are provided by the Smoky River Fire Department which serves the Municipal District as well as the villages and towns within the municipal boundaries. The Fire Department operates out of three fires halls in Falher, Donnelly and McLennan. It is headed by a Fire Chief as well as volunteer firefighters from each of the communities.

A Fire Protection Master Plan was developed in 2001 to provide direction and coordination to the municipality and the Fire Department. The Smoky River Regional Municipal Emergency Plan has designated the Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130’s Council Chambers as the primary Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) in the event of an emergency and the Town of McLennan Council Chambers as an alternate EOC.

HOUSING In 2013 the Municipal District reported 796 dwelling units 15 , primarily single-detached, manufactured and modular homes, located throughout the Municipal District. Senior residents within the Municipal District enjoy a range of housing options in the region including different levels of service. Heart River Housing is the management body for seniors and low-income housing in the region16.

Supportive living housing offers meals, housekeeping, furnishings, and storage with home care provided by Alberta Health Services. Supportive living housing within the Municipal District’s boundaries is located in the Town of Falher and the Town of McLennan. Self-contained apartments offer regulated rents based on 30% of gross total income with heat, water, waste removal and sewer expenses included in the rent. Residents pay the electricity expenses. Self-contained apartments are located in the Village of Donnelly and the Village of Girouxville and the Town of Falher and the Town of McLennan within the Municipal District boundaries. Housing for low- income families and individuals are located in the Towns of Falher and McLennan and the Village of Girouxville. Senior and low-income housing units are summarized in Table 4. Heart River Housing also offers a rent supplement program to subsidize rental properties at market price, either through direct to tenant or through private landlord agreements.

15 Source: AB Municipal Affairs, Municipal Profile, Statistics, 2013 16 Source: Heart River Housing, http://www.heartriverhousing.ca/index.html

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

TABLE 4: SENIOR AND LOW-INCOME HOUSING UNITS WITHIN MUNICIPAL DISTRICT BOUNDARIES Seniors Low-income

Supportive Living Self-Contained Family Housing Apartments Town of Falher 69 33 17 Town of McLennan 15 11 21 Village of Donnelly 0 16 0

Village of Girouxville 0 17 4

Total 84 77 42

ECONOMY The traditional economic base in the Municipal District has been predominantly agriculture and forestry but has seen recent expansion into the development of the oil and gas sector.

According to the Census of Agriculture, the Municipal District had 310 farms in 2011, a decrease of 81 farms since 2006, slightly lower than the loss of 94 farms between 2001 and 2006. Agricultural operations are located throughout the Municipal District. The land use trend over the last 15 years has seen a decrease in small family farms and an increase in larger land holdings, cultivated by a decreasing number of farmers (Table 5).

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

TABLE 5: NUMBER OF FARMS BY TOTAL FARM AREA WITHIN THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF SMOKY RIVER NO. 130 FOR 2001, 2006 AND 2011

200

180

160 140 120 100 80 60

Numberof Farms 40 20 2011 0 2006 2001

Total Farm Area

This area of the Peace Region is well-known for its honey and the Municipal District contains 21,870 honey bee colonies, almost 10 % of the provincial supply17. Field crops, including spring wheat, oats, barley, alfalfa, canola and dry field peas accounted for 83% of the agricultural land in the Municipal District in 201118. Crop type trends since 2001 within the Municipal District have included a decrease in oats, barley and alfalfa, and an increase in canola and wheat (see Table 6). In 2011 there were 8,939 cattle and calves, a 36 % decrease

since 200619. Additional animal husbandry includes 327 FIGURE 5: THE FALHER HONEYBEE horses and ponies, 588 bison, and 92 llamas and alpacas as identified in the 2011 census.

17 Source: 2011 Census of Agriculture 18 Source: Statistics Canada, 2011 19 Source: 2001, 2006 and 2011 Census of Agriculture. In 2006 there were 13,930 heads of cattle.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

TABLE 6: CROPS PLANTED IN 2001, 2006 AND 2011 IN THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF SMOKY RIVER NO. 130

300000

250000

200000

150000

2001 Acres 2006 100000 2011

50000

0 Wheat Oats Barley Alfalfa Canola Flaxseed Dry Field Peas Field Crops

Confined Feeding Operations (CFOs) have been regulated and administered provincially since 2002 by the Natural Resources Conservation Board (NRCB), an agency of the Provincial government. The NRCB regulates and approves CFOs according to the Agricultural Operations Practices Act (AOPA). Currently, the Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 has 9 CFOs located throughout the municipality (see Schedule B) that are regulated by the NRCB. The Agricultural Lands section includes CFO policies to provide direction for CFO applicants and for AOPA administrators when assessing applications.

DEVELOPMENT CLIMATE Many of the development permits issued in the Municipal District since 2011 have been for/accessory to residential development and commercial/industrial development.

TABLE 7 MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF SMOKY RIVER NO. 130 DEVELOPMENT PERMIT BY TYPE, 2011-2014

Development Type Accessory Year Structures Residential Commercial/Industrial Agricultural Total Value 2015 4 6 4 5 $ 2,080,000 2014 5 12 4 6 $ 5,891,000 2013 1 13 6 1 $ 12,744,000 2012 1 6 5 1 $ 26,792,000 2011 3 11 4 0 $ 6,265,000

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

DEVELOPMENT CONSTRAINTS WETLANDS Wetlands comprise 30% of the landscape in the Peace River region20 impacting the ability to undertake certain land use activities. While wetlands and accompanying riparian areas provide many benefits such as recreation opportunities and reducing the impact of flooding and drought, they present challenges to farmers and developers.

Wetlands are administered by the Province under the Water Act and the Public Lands Act and activities or diversions on or near wetlands may require an approval granted by the Province. The Alberta Wetland Policy identifies the strategic direction and tools required to make informed management decisions.

SLOPES The Municipal District includes 2 major river systems, the Smoky River and the Little Smoky River, as well as smaller creeks and tributaries. Rivers and lakes (see Schedule C), and development adjacent to these areas may be impacted by unstable slopes. Development within the Environmentally Sensitive Lands Overlay may require additional assessments, reports, and studies. Specific setbacks are identified in Section 3.8 and within the Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 land use bylaw.

RAIL Active rail lines may present challenges to development, including recommended development setbacks that vary according to the type of railway infrastructure, and the type of development being proposed.

Rail service currently exists traveling from the Town of McLennan to the Town of Falher (west), Northern Sunrise County (north) and Big Lakes County (east). Rail development in the Municipal District consists of branch lines including two rail yards in Falher and McLennan. The Guidelines for New Development in the Proximity to Railway Operations (2013) prepared for the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and the Railway Association of Canada recommends a setback of 15 m from a branch line and 300 m from a rail yard from all sensitive uses.

Decommissioned rail lines, where CN still owns the right-of-way (ROW), may also be a challenge for proposed development nearby or within the ROW due to strict regulations imposed by the corporation, regardless of whether the track still exists. CN-owned ROWs within the Municipal District are located between the Village of Girouxville and the Town of Falher.

20 Mighty Peace Watershed Alliance, State of the Watershed Report, 2015

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

COMMUNITY RESOURCES The Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 provides several recreational resources for residents and visitors including fishing, camping and hiking opportunities through the two rivers and larger lakes. In the winter, the Little Smoky Ski Area, located on the Little Smoky River banks in the southwest corner of the Municipal District, provides a full service ski hill with several ski and tubing runs, a café and equipment rentals. The two hamlets, Guy and Jean Côté, provide well-used community halls.

FIGURE 11: GIROUXVILLE MUSEUM FIGURE 10: FALHER POOL

FIGURE 9: CHURCH, GUY FIGURE 8: PLAYGROUND AND COMMUNITY HALL, GUY

FIGURE 7: CULP, HISTORIC SETTLEMENT FIGURE 6: LITTLE SMOKY RIVER

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

The Falher Regional Recreation Complex includes an arena rink, curling rink, fitness gym and meeting facility. Additional community resources within the Municipal District boundaries are summarized in Table 8.

TABLE 8: REGIONAL INVENTORY OF COMMUNITY RESOURCES IN THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF SMOKY RIVER NO. 130

TOWN OF TOWN OF VILLAGE OF VILLAGE OF MD OF SMOKY TOTAL FALHER MCLENNAN DONNELLY GIROUXVILLE RIVER

Curling 1 1 Rink

Golf 1 1 2 Course

Pool 1 1

Arena 1 1 1 3

Museum/ 1 1 1 3 Archives

Library 1 1 2

Campsite 1 1 1 1 4

Bowling 1 1 Alley

Ski Hill 1 1

Splash 1 1 Park

Ag Fair 1 1 Grounds

Skating 1 1 2 Rink

Fitness 1 1 2 Centre

Ball 1 1 1 1 2 6 Diamond

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

HISTORIC SITES The Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 contains buildings and areas of historic significance related to the founding of the region as a French Canadian and Catholic territory.

FIGURE 12: EGLISE ST.-JEAN-BAPTISTE DE FALHER IN MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF SMOKY RIVER NO. 130

Église St.-Jean-Baptiste de Falher Roman Catholic mission church is a two-and-a-half-storey log building that served as both a church and a residence. It was the first permanent church built in the French Canadian settlement of Falher. Father Marie Dreau built this 1914 church with help from the community. The building became a provincial registered historic resource in 2012.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

FIGURE 13: LA GROTTE IN THE VILLAGE OF GIROUXVILLE

La grotte, or the grotto, is located in the Village of Girouxville behind the museum and next to the Catholic Church, Paroise Notre Dame de la Lourdes. It is the site of an annual pilgrimage (chemin de la croix) for French Catholics in the region. On August 15 every year, worshippers make a pilgrimage to the site to pray to the “Blessed Virgin of Assumption.” The site contains a grotto built out of stones found locally and situated within a glassed triangular structure (Figure 13) in a large courtyard adorned with several statues. The original grotto was built in 1940 and the current one was built in 1962.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

PLANNING PROCESS

STEERING COMMITTEE The development of the MDP was led by a Steering Committee, providing direction and feedback on:  community principles;  a vision and goals;  community consultation events;  municipal policies; and  implementation strategies.

The Steering Committee met a total of 8 times during the MDP process.

MEDIA A newspaper article was published in the Smoky River Express on June 24, 2015 to introduce the Municipal Development Plan process to the community. Information about the plan was also available on the Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 website.

COMMUNITY CONSULTATION COMMUNITY SURVEY In the spring of 2015, MMSA developed a community survey to obtain feedback and gain an understanding regarding the attitudes and feelings of residents about the present and future of the Municipal District. The annual Honey Fest held on June 21st by the Town of Falher provided MMSA with the opportunity to launch the survey to the public and talk to the community about the MDP.

The survey was advertised in every issue of the Smoky River Express from June 24 until September 2, 2015. Information about the survey and the MDP process was posted on the Municipal District’s website on both the homepage and on a separate MDP webpage linked to from the homepage.

The survey was managed by MMSA through Survey Monkey. Paper copies of the survey and bookmarks with a link to the survey website were available at the Municipal District office from June 24th until September 7th, 2015.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

A total of 61 surveys were completed which represents approximately 4% of the Municipal District’s adult population21; 36 surveys were completed online and 25 hard copies were submitted to the Municipal District.

A Community Survey Report (see Appendix B) was completed that provided an analysis and summary of the response data. This report was released to the public through the Municipal District’s website on November 5, 2015.

21 Based on the 2011 Stats Canada Census data.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

PART 2 DIRECTION

COMMUNITY VISION Diverse and prosperous with a strong agricultural foundation – the Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 supports an active rural lifestyle for all ages in a healthy environment.

GUIDING PRINCIPLES Through community consultation activities and the MDP Steering Committee meetings, key themes and values important to the residents of the Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 emerged. They are the basis for addressing the questions ‘who we are’ and ‘what we believe in’ as a community. These principles will be used to enhance the quality of decision-making, prioritize actions, and evaluate programs and policy decisions.

PRINCIPLE 1 – PRESERVE AGRICULTURAL AREAS The Municipal District was founded on traditional family farming and continues to maintain a strong agricultural foundation. Agriculture is an integral part of the rural character and economic base of the Municipal District and will be prioritized and protected in land use policies.

PRINCIPLE 2 – EXPAND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES The Municipal District recognizes the benefits of a diverse economy and strives to expand its commercial and industrial base while maintaining a productive agricultural land base.

PRINCIPLE 3 – PROTECT THE INTEGRITY OF NATURAL AREAS AND THE RURAL LANDSCAPE The Municipal District encompasses a range of natural areas such as rivers, lakes and wetlands that provide many benefits and contribute to the rural character of the community that should be protected and enhanced for future generations.

PRINCIPLE 4 – ENHANCE OPPORTUNITIES FOR RECREATION IN ALL SEASONS The Municipal District has many community amenities and outdoor areas to provide leisure and recreation activities. Residents and visitors to the Municipal District can find many opportunities to participate in recreation activities throughout the year.

PRINCIPLE 5 – INCREASE COOPERATION WITH NEIGHBOURING MUNICIPALITIES The Municipal District encompasses several urban municipalities with which it shares common goals. Collaboration amongst neighbours in the pursuit of these goals will increase opportunities for a better quality of life.

PRINCIPLE 6 – CONTRIBUTE TO THE PROVISION OF DIVERSE HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES The Municipal District is home to residents at different life stages and income levels and will continue to work towards accommodating the housing needs of all residents.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

PART 3 OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES

3.1 PLANS, SUBDIVISION AND DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT The purpose of this section is to help direct the pattern of growth and development in the Municipal District with consideration of past and current land use patterns, community values, and future vision. The policies in this section apply to subdivisions and developments irrespective of location or land use.

OBJECTIVES 1. Conserve better agricultural land. 2. Protect environmentally sensitive lands. 3. Establish criteria for the preparation of more detailed plans. 4. Define developer responsibilities. 5. Identify requirements that apply to all development.

POLICIES 3.1.1 PLAN a. The Municipal District shall conform to the policies of the Province CONFORMANCE of Alberta, the Provincial Land Use Framework and any Regional Plan when considering MDP reviews and updates, MDP and Land Use Bylaw amendments, or other development proposals. b. Future development in the Municipal District shall generally conform to the Policy Areas identified in the Future Land Use Concept.

3.1.2 DEVELOPER a. The Municipal District should amend the land use bylaw to include RESPONSIBILITY provisions that may require developers to enter into a Development Agreement with the MD in accordance with Section 650 of the Municipal Government Act, as amended. AI b. Developers shall be responsible for the development of the roads, water, sanitary sewers and storm sewers required to properly service the site, or as outlined in a development agreement. c. Developers shall provide “As Built” plans to the Municipal District once a development is complete. d. Developers shall obtain the approvals and permits required by provincial legislation and a development permit from the Municipal District prior to commencing development. e. The land use bylaw, as amended, identifies what else may be required as part of the development permit application process.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

3.1.3 AREA a. Developers shall be required to prepare an Area Structure Plan, STRUCTURE prepared in accordance with the MGA, with the following PLANS provisions: i. A residential subdivision greater than 3 parcels. A rezoning from an Agricultural District to a Residential District is also required. ii. Industrial or commercial subdivisions exceeding 1 lot. A re-zoning from an Agricultural District to a Commercial or Industrial District is also required. iii. An Area Structure Plan may be required for a Major Development proposal, as determined by the Municipal District, that does not require a subdivision but may generate significant impacts on the Municipal District, adjacent land owners and the region. iv. An Area Structure Plan may be required by Alberta Transportation if the proposed development is within 0.8 km (0.5 mi) of a highway. The Area Structure Plan should incorporate and reference Alberta Transportation’s future twinning of Highways 2 and 49. b. An Area Structure Plan prepared by a developer shall include: i. A policy document that provides a description of the development site and the proposed development including: 1. Background studies as required eg. soil assessments, water testing or wetland assessments. 2. Site analysis of the development area that considers natural and human-made characteristics. 3. A detailed description of the proposal addressing the land uses and densities proposed for the area. 4. The sequence of development proposed for the area. 5. The provision of municipal and environmental reserve land. 6. The impact of the proposed development on adjacent land uses and the environment. 7. How the development will connect with the Municipal District’s transportation networks. 8. How the proposed development will retain trees and other environmental features such as watercourses, wetlands, wildlife corridors, and historical resources. ii. A land use map illustrating proposed land uses, transportation network(s), open space and reserve dedications. iii. A servicing map illustrating proposed servicing of the area including water and sewer, gas, power, telecommunication, and block and lot grading for surface drainage management.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

3.1.4 SUBDIVISION a. New subdivisions shall integrate existing natural features, DESIGN including but not limited to wetlands, watercourses, and stands of trees into the design where possible. b. New subdivisions that include residential neighbourhoods may require i. adequate parks and open space; ii. stormwater management facilities designed to function as part of the open space system; iii. new street networks that are a logical extension of the existing road network to provide connectivity while minimizing through traffic; iv. where the development is adjacent to an existing or planned urban area, sidewalks may be required: 1. on both sides of the street within commercial areas, and 2. on at least one side of all residential and industrial streets and, where possible, connected to the existing sidewalk network; and c. New neighbourhoods shall be serviced by the municipal transportation network, the water, and waste water systems and these systems shall meet the Municipal District’s approved municipal servicing standards. 3.1.5 DEVELOPMENT a. Site plans are required to be submitted with all development APPLICATIONS applications. 3.1.6 APPLICATION a. All applications for land use bylaw amendments, subdivisions and EVALUATION development permits shall be evaluated according to the following: i. compliance with the MGA, the Subdivision and Development Regulation, MDP, Land Use Bylaw, and any other statutory plan or non-statutory document that is in effect; ii. sufficient road access and impact of proposed traffic supported by a traffic impact analysis; iii. compatibility of adjacent land uses; iv. site suitability in terms of soil, topography and natural features including wetlands, forested areas, lakeshores and river banks; v. proposed methods of servicing for water supply and sewage disposal; vi. environmental factors including the potential for  erosion,  flooding,  contamination of surface waterbodies and

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

groundwater,  impacts on wetlands,  loss of fish and wildlife habitat and  impact of stormwater runoff on adjacent lands; vii. the quality of agricultural land; and viii. other matters as identified by the Municipal District. 3.1.7 NON- a. Existing uses may continue at their current scale of development CONFORMING and/or operation. USES b. When redevelopment or a change of use to sites that are currently inconsistent with the Future Land Use Concept occurs, that development should be consistent with the Future Land Use Concept. c. Where 3.1.7(b) applies, the Municipal District should amend the Land Use Bylaw to the applicable land use district.

3.1.8 RESERVE LAND a. Municipal reserve owing shall be taken as land with the following exceptions: i. Money in lieu may be considered if one or more of the following criteria are met: 1. The amount owing would not provide a useful open space. 2. The subdivision is located in an area where the reserve land would serve little useful purpose. b. Reserve lands may be deferred if an adopted area structure plan designated alternative locations and provisions for the allocation of reserve land. c. Notwithstanding the above all developments shall provide the full (10%) dedication of municipal and/or school reserve land. d. The Municipal District shall emphasize the provision of functional open space that meets the needs of the residents when dedicating reserve lands. 3.1.9 ENVIRONMENTAL a. A Phase One or Phase Two Environmental Site Assessment, a SITE geotechnical, floodplain and/or biophysical study or assessment ASSESSMENT may be required for any proposed development at the developer’s cost. 3.1.10 ENVIRONMENTAL a. An Environmental Impact Assessment may be required for any IMPACT proposed development at the developer’s cost. ASSESSMENT 3.1.11 OIL AND GAS a. Development and subdivision applications in close proximity to WELLS sour gas facilities and abandoned wells shall be required to meet Provincial legislation, the standards of the Subdivision and Development Regulation and the Alberta Energy Regulator guidelines with respect to minimum separation distances.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

FIGURE 14: CANADA LAND INVENTORY SOIL CLASSIFICATION MAP FOR MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF SMOKY RIVER NO. 130

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

3.2 AGRICULTURAL LANDS Agriculture is the predominant land use in the Municipal District at 236,250 ha (83% of the land base) and the preservation and promotion of agricultural land uses is a high priority. Since the settlement of the Municipal District, agricultural production has shifted from smaller, traditional family farms to large-scale operations using more advanced farming technology. Additionally, part- time farming has become more prevalent, as farmers supplement farm incomes with outside employment. This may impact municipal policy decisions with regard to home based businesses in agricultural areas.

Approximately 65.16% or 188,206 ha of land in the Municipal District is considered better agricultural land (Figure 14). The majority of the best agricultural land in the Municipal District is in agricultural production, limiting the expansion of agricultural operations to poor agricultural capability lands with high ecological value. These include wetlands and riparian areas. The loss and fragmentation of better agricultural land to non-agricultural uses impacts farming operations and removes good agricultural land from the total available supply.

OBJECTIVES 1. Preserve better agricultural lands and protect current agricultural operations. 2. Recognize agriculture and related activities as the priority land use in the Municipal District. 3. Ensure that new development is compatible with existing agricultural activities. 4. Situate non-agricultural development on lower quality agricultural lands or in areas where services and infrastructure currently exist or are planned. Did you know? 5. Minimize impacts of non-agricultural uses on farming operations. The Municipal District is located in 6. Accommodate the diversification of farming the Dry MixedWood Natural operations. Subregion which has the highest 7. Provide guidance on the development of number of growing degree days in all confined feeding operations. of the boreal subregions.

POLICIES 3.2.1 AGRICULTURAL a. Unless otherwise allowed for in this MDP or any other Statutory LAND USE Plan, the subdivision of better agricultural land shall not be permitted for non-agricultural uses.

b. The Municipal District shall support a sustainable agricultural economy by allowing farm operators to engage in different types and sizes of agricultural operations.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

3.2.2 AGRICULTURAL a. The subdivision of better agricultural land shall not be permitted SUBDIVISION OF by the Municipal District unless the proposed subdivision is for: BETTER i. extensive agriculture; AGRICULTURAL ii. a parcel of land that is severed from the balance of the LAND quarter-section and cannot be reasonably farmed in

accordance with policy 3.2.2(c); iii. a Farmstead Separation in accordance with policy 3.2.2(b); iv. a single parcel out for residential development in accordance with policy 3.2.2(b); v. a public use and/or public utility; vi. a non-agricultural development, which, in the opinion of the Municipal District, cannot be reasonably located on poorer agricultural land; or vii. a direct control district.

SINGLE PARCEL b. Further to policy 3.2.2(a), the subdivision of a single parcel out of OUT FOR an unsubdivided quarter section for a residential use should be RESIDENTIAL encouraged to locate on fragmented parcels and on marginal USE agricultural land and shall only be allowed if the following criteria are met to the satisfaction of the Municipal District: i. The setback distance between property lines, buildings, water sources and private sewage disposal systems adheres to Provincial Regulations. ii. Physical and legal road access to a Municipal District road is provided year round. iii. The proposed use of the parcel does not adversely impact adjacent agricultural uses. iv. The proposed parcel is not located within the required Minimum Distance Separation of an established confined feeding operation (CFO), and will not interfere with the future expansion of existing CFOs. v. At the discretion of the Municipal District, the proposed parcel location will cause the least disturbance to and loss of environmentally sensitive areas such as wetlands, riparian areas, natural drainage courses, and tree stands. vi. Any other considerations as determined by the Municipal District.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

FRAGMENTED c. Further to 3.2.2(a)(ii), the subdivision of a parcel that is separated PARCELS from the balance of the existing titled area by a road, railway, watercourse, waterbody, gully, or ravine may be considered if the following criteria are met: i. The proposed parcel is inaccessible from the balance or, in the opinion of the Municipal District, is difficult to farm. ii. Legal and physical access are available. iii. The applicant is able to demonstrate that the intended use would not interfere with the continued agricultural use of the remaining lands in the title or the farming operations on adjacent lands. iv. The proposed parcel can accommodate on-site sewage disposal and water services. v. The proposed parcel is not subject to erosion, flooding or sinking. MULTI-PARCEL d. Notwithstanding 3.2.2(a), the subdivision of agricultural land for SUBDIVISION multi-parcel country residential development may be permitted subject to an approved area structure plan, in accordance with policy 3.1.3. AI (requires change to LUB) e. On lands not defined as better agricultural lands, or lands that are considered by the Municipal District to be exceptions to the definition as per policy 3.2.3(a), the Municipal District may allow the subdivision and/or development of non-agricultural uses. f. The Municipal District may support proposals for non-agricultural uses depending upon the merits of the proposal as described in an area structure plan as per policy 3.1.3. 3.2.3 DEVELOPMENT a. The Municipal District shall discourage the development of non- agricultural uses on better agricultural land unless a suitable alternative location is not available. The types of uses that may be permitted on better agricultural land include those listed in the land use bylaw. b. The development of non-agricultural uses in agricultural districts shall not negatively affect existing agricultural operations. c. The subdivision and development of land for intensive agricultural use may be permitted at the discretion of the Municipal District upon consideration of the parcel size, site characteristics, surrounding land uses, environmental impact and any other matters as required.

3.2.4 HOME-BASED a. The Municipal District supports and encourages home-based BUSINESSES businesses, but requires businesses to address any potential land use conflicts with adjacent uses.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

3.2.5 TREE RETENTION a. The Municipal District shall encourage the retention and/or development of windbreaks between agricultural parcels and shelterbelts around Farmstead Separations. AI

CONFINED FEEDING OPERATIONS

3.2.6 CONFINED a. Policies 3.2.6(g)-(r) describe the land use provisions that apply to FEEDING new and expanding confined feeding operations (CFOs) requiring an OPERATIONS approval or registration with the Natural Resources Conservation Board (NRCB). APPLICATION b. The Development Authority, upon consideration of policies REFERRAL 3.2.6(c)-(r), shall refer all applications for CFOs to Council for comments.

APPLICATION c. The Municipal District will not support applications to the NRCB to SUPPORT establish or expand CFOs unless they are compatible with adjacent land uses and do not cause adverse health or environmental impacts. RESIDENTIAL d. Existing CFOs shall be protected by the Municipal District by RESTRICTIONS refusing development permits for new residential proposals located within the Minimum Distance Separation as defined by the Agricultural Operations Practices Act (AOPA). ROAD USE e. CFO operators must enter into a Road Use Agreement with the AGREEMENT Municipal District. NOTIFICATION f. The NRCB Approval Officer shall notify the Municipal District when Part 1 of an application for a CFO has been received by the NRCB. Once Part 2 of an application has been completed and submitted to NRCB it will be available for viewing by all affected parties. MAP g. Schedule B – Confined Feeding Operations Siting Restrictions outlines those areas restricting and allowing the placement of new and expanding CFOs within the Municipal District as well as the stipulated minimum setbacks for CFOs requiring an approval or registration with the NRCB. SETBACKS h. All setbacks are to be measured from the peripheral boundaries of the subjects outlined within this MDP, meaning i. the top of bank for watercourses, ii. the high water mark for waterbodies, iii. the incorporated boundaries for towns, villages, and hamlet boundaries, iv. road ROW boundaries, and v. the outer boundary of identified recreation sites.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

i. Notwithstanding the Agricultural Operation Practices Act (AOPA), the expansion or establishment of CFOs will not be supported i. within 3.2 km (2 miles) of the boundaries of a town, village or hamlet within the Municipal District boundaries; ii. within 1.6 km of a community facility or recreation area; iii. within 0.8 km (1/2 mile) of Crown-owned wetlands and environmentally sensitive land; iv. within the Urban Growth Corridor; v. within the Urban Development Corridor; vi. within 0.8 km (1/2 mile) for key waterbodies with significant recreational and environmental value including Lake 16, Lac Magloire, Kimiwan Lake, Rat Lake, Winagami Lake, Maurice Lake, and the Muskeg Lakes; vii. within 30 m of all registered drainage projects; and viii. within 30 m of streams and creeks. j. To ensure an appropriate setback and access for the proposed operation, a minimum roadway setback of 150 m (500 ft) is required for all CFOs. AI (requires change to LUB)

SURFACE WATER k. To reduce the risk of surface and dugout water contamination, PROTECTION being the primary source of potable water for many residents in the Municipal District, CFOs shall include manure injection as part of the manure management plan.

TECHNOLOGY l. To prevent potential rural land use conflicts and preserve agricultural lands for agricultural uses within the agricultural district, CFOs are encouraged to identify and employ the long term use of effective odour reducing technology best suited to the operation and site specific conditions, to mitigate the potential negative impacts on adjacent landowners and the residents of the Municipal District.

EMERGENCY m. To ensure adequate emergency provisions, owners/operators of RESPONSE PLAN the CFOs shall work cooperatively with the Director of Disaster Services and other municipal officials as appointed by Council, in the development of an emergency response plan.

MANURE n. Due to climatic constraints (primarily long winters and short STORAGE growing seasons) that may inhibit timely and effective manure injection, all liquid manure tanks/lagoons should be designed to retain 18 months of storage

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

ODOUR o. To reduce the odour emissions of a confined feeding operation, the EMISSIONS Municipality strongly encourages all liquid manure storage lagoons, reservoirs and open tanks to be covered with synthetic liners and to install biofilters.

RESTRICTED p. To alleviate the current cumulative impact(s) of an increasing AREAS number of CFOs on adjacent landowners, no new or expanding CFOs shall be permitted in the area designated on Schedule B as “Restricted” and as reviewed by Council from time to time, with input from area residents. q. Notwithstanding policy 3.2.6 (p) and other policies contained within this plan regarding CFOs, Council may consider the support of an application for a CFO in a restricted area, if the applicant can highlight and prove the technological aspects (i.e. digesters, biofiltration etc.) of the proposed operation that would reduce the cumulative effect of a new approval on existing/future land uses and property owners in the area. Further, support for an application may be granted if the proposed owner/operator can identify cooperative efforts, with the neighbours and the Municipal District, to integrate operations that reduce the impact of the CFOs within the area. r. Prior to considering the support of an application of a CFO under policy 3.2.6(q) in any area regarded as restricted, the applicant shall have demonstrated the appropriate enhancements of the operation that would effectively mitigate the potential environmental and emission related issues associated with the proposed development, thereby mitigating the potential risks associated with the proposed operation. An applicant may be requested to provide comparable evidence and proof that the proposed enhancement will facilitate the mitigation of environmental and emissions issues.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

3.3 COUNTRY RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT This section provides direction to the development standards and the siting of multi-lot country residential developments. The Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 recognizes and supports the need for a variety of residential development forms, provided the development does not conflict with priority agricultural uses, can be serviced efficiently and affordably, and does not unnecessarily fragment the land.

In addition to hamlets, farmstead separations, and residential lots in the agricultural district, non- farm residential developments are located in multi-lot country residential subdivisions and recreational residential development, which currently include 51 ha of land within the Municipal District.

OBJECTIVES 1. Provide for a variety of residential development options in locations that have access to services and amenities. 2. Direct multi-lot country residential development to designated locations. 3. Establish criteria for the development and siting of multi-lot country residential subdivisions.

POLICIES 3.3.1 DESIGNATION a. Multi-lot country residential development shall be encouraged to OF MULTI-LOT locate in areas: COUNTRY i. that are not in conflict with surrounding agricultural RESIDENTIAL operations and other land uses; DEVELOPMENT ii. that offer an attractive residential setting; iii. that are separated from hazards or environmentally sensitive lands; iv. that do not infringe on historic sites, recreation areas, and transportation facilities; v. that have road access; and vi. where water and sewer servicing already exists.

3.3.2 MULTI-LOT a. Multi-lot country residential subdivisions will only be approved if COUNTRY they are designed to minimize development footprints and retain RESIDENTIAL environmentally sensitive areas in their natural states. SUBDIVISION b. Applications for multi-lot country residential subdivisions will be CRITERIA reviewed in accordance with the following criteria: i. The applicant demonstrates, to the satisfaction of the Municipal District, that the proposed development is safe from flooding, erosion, subsidence, groundwater inundation, or other hazards determined through guidelines prepared by Alberta Environment. ii. The development does not impact adjacent land uses,

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

including existing agricultural operations. iii. The development is not within the minimum setback distances of a Confined Feeding Operation. iv. The development will not fragment contiguous natural areas, or have a negative impact on environmentally sensitive lands such as watercourses or waterbodies. v. The development will not fragment agricultural land. vi. Water supply and sewage disposal systems comply with provincial regulations. vii. Access to the subdivision and internal roads are designed to Municipal District standards. viii. The size and density of lots are in accordance with the requirements in the LUB. ix. A portion of the site is retained in its natural state as environmental reserve, municipal reserve, open space or natural area. x. Potential impacts on the existing transportation network in the area are identified with measures to upgrade the existing network as necessary. xi. Any other considerations as determined by the Municipal District. c. The completion of an area structure plan shall be required in accordance with policy 3.1.3.

3.3.3 RECREATIONAL a. Support for new recreational residential development will be RESIDENTIAL granted if: DEVELOPMENT i. The proposed development is located adjacent to a natural amenity such as a lake or a river. ii. The subdivision is serviced by municipal services and meets the standards of the Municipal District’s most current level of service standards. iii. Road access to the subdivision, including internal roads, shall be constructed to the Municipal District’s most current level of service standards. iv. The subdivision is zoned to an appropriate land use district in accordance with the LUB. v. The development does not negatively impact land uses.

3.3.4 HOME-BASED a. The Municipal District supports and encourages home-based BUSINESSES businesses, but requires businesses to address any potential land use conflicts with adjacent uses.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

3.4 HAMLETS This section provides direction to standards of development in hamlets in the Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130. There are two hamlets within the Municipal District (Figure 2): Guy is located in the southern part of the Municipal District off Highway 49, and Jean Côté is located in the northern part of the Municipal District off Range Road 221 (Figures 15 & 16). Both hamlets are serviced by the Municipal District and are developed primarily as residential, but also include some commercial, community, and industrial services to area residents.

OBJECTIVES 1. Ensure the orderly and efficient development of land uses within hamlets. 2. Utilize existing services and infrastructure when considering new developments both inside and outside hamlet boundaries. 3. Reduce the potential for hamlet-rural land use conflicts. 4. Encourage infilling prior to expansion of hamlet boundaries.

POLICIES 3.4.1 DEVELOPMENT a. The development and subdivision within hamlets should occur by AND infilling within the existing hamlet rather than the expansion of SUBDIVISION existing boundaries. b. The subdivision of land and the siting of buildings within hamlets should enable convenient installation of water and sewer servicing. PREFERRED c. The development within hamlets and within the hamlet-rural fringe DEVELOPMENT area(s) shall be limited to the following uses to avoid land use TYPE conflicts: i. residential uses; ii. home-based businesses; iii. convenience commercial uses; iv. community uses such as religious use facility, community halls and schools; v. recreational uses; and vi. small-scale industrial uses that are compatible with residential development. 3.4.2 HAMLET a. The minor expansion of hamlet boundaries may be permitted EXPANSION provided: i. the character and the function of the hamlets are not changed; ii. the expansion is not on better agricultural land or on an extractive resource area (unless there is no suitable alternative); iii. adequate infrastructure and other basic services including water and sewer can be provided; and

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

iv. an area structure plan for the expansion area has been adopted.

3.4.3 LAND USES a. The MD shall encourage commercial, industrial, and community uses that are intended to service the rural area to locate in hamlets whenever possible.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

FIGURE 15: CURRENT LAND USE AND AREAS OF INTEREST FOR THE HAMLET OF GUY

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

FIGURE 16: CURRENT LAND USE AND AREAS OF INTEREST FOR THE HAMLET OF JEAN COTE

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

3.5 COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY This section provides direction to development standards and the siting of commercial and industrial development. Existing commercial and industrial development in the Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 ranges from large-scale industrial agricultural to home-based commercial businesses. Industrial development services primarily the agricultural operations and oil and gas sectors, while commercial development primarily services agricultural and industrial activities.

OBJECTIVES 1. Encourage appropriate distribution and standards for commercial and industrial development. 2. Accommodate the development of commercial and industrial uses within designated areas. 3. Establish criteria for siting commercial and industrial uses. 4. Minimize the negative impacts of industrial development within agricultural areas. 5. Strengthen and diversify the Municipal District’s economy.

POLICIES 3.5.1 LOCATION a. Commercial and industrial development not directly dependent on highway access should be encouraged to locate in existing urban areas or hamlets in proximity to Municipal District roads and in areas with access to existing water and power services whenever possible. BETTER b. Commercial and industrial development should not be permitted to AGRICULTURAL locate on better agricultural land, unless the proposal is part of an LAND approved area structure plan as per policy 3.1.3.

INDUSTRIAL c. The Municipal District shall encourage industrial uses to locate in PARKS industrial parks, and other preferred development sites as listed within policy 3.5.1(i)(i), to reduce scattered industrial development. Industrial parks should be located: i. adjacent to, or near, major transportation routes; ii. next to compatible land uses; iii. on sites with low agricultural capability and on physically severed parcels; and iv. in areas that would not negatively impact environmentally sensitive lands, cultural and historic resources. AREA d. Rural industrial parks shall be developed in accordance with an STRUCTURE approved area structure plan as per policy 3.1.3. PLAN

INDUSTRIAL e. The Municipal District may support industrial development outside DEVELOPMENT of industrial parks/in Agricultural Lands if the proposal: PROPOSALS i. is located on a site that has attributes favourable to the

establishment and operation of the business including soil

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

stability, groundwater level and drainage; ii. is not within close proximity, as determined by the Municipal District, to a multi-lot residential subdivision; and iii. supports agriculture or natural resource extraction.

INDUSTRIAL f. All industrial development proposals will be evaluated based on the PROPOSAL following criteria: EVALUATION i. impact on water resources including groundwater, watercourses and waterbodies and conformity with provincial guidelines, policies and conditions; ii. proximity to residential, recreational and public uses, and environmentally sensitive lands; iii. impact on the local road network; and iv. conformance with relevant statutory plans and documents. PERMITS AND g. All industrial and commercial development proposals shall obtain APPROVALS the approvals and permits required by provincial legislation, and a development permit from the Municipal District, prior to commencing development.

COMMERCIAL h. Commercial development proposals shall be considered if they are DEVELOPMENT located PROPOSALS i. adjacent to, or near, major transportation routes; ii. next to compatible adjacent land uses; iii. within a hamlet; and iv. in areas that would not negatively impact environmentally sensitive lands, cultural and historic resources. PREFERRED i. Direct future development to areas designated as commercial DEVELOPMENT within the Future Land Use Concept map including: SITING i. Industrial and commercial designated lands at the junction of Highways 49 and 2, as per the Donnelly Corner ASP; ii. Commercial uses along Range Road 213, adjacent to the Town of Falher; and iii. Commercial uses along Range Road 220, south of Highway 49.

RAILWAY j. The development of industrial activity with access to existing railway facilities shall be encouraged.

3.5.2 DEVELOPMENT a. Highway development shall be constructed to enhance the aesthetic STANDARDS value of the Municipal District through architecture, landscaping, signage, and other requirements as stipulated by the Municipal District when the development permit is issued. b. Development standards for industrial and commercial uses including siting and building design, landscaping and screening,

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

parking and signage, shall be outlined within the Land Use Bylaw. 3.5.3 RESOURCE a. Support for resource extraction operations shall be dependent on EXTRACTION the mitigation or minimization of the impacts on adjacent land uses, soil, water, and farming operations.

3.5.4 SETBACKS a. Setbacks from heavy industrial facilities should be measured from the outside boundary of the parcel on which the facility is located. b. Adequate buffers shall be maintained between non-industrial and industrial uses to avoid potential land use conflicts such as noise, vibration, dust, odour, environmental hazards or other safety risks. For example: the Commercial Industrial District acts as a buffer between people-oriented development and large-scale industrial development.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

3.6 RECREATION, OPEN SPACE AND HISTORIC RESOURCES Recreation opportunities foster a higher quality of life, providing an essential service for all residents. While the Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 consists primarily of agricultural lands, it also includes natural areas essential for outdoor recreation activities, including urban areas that provide community facilities. Access to a variety of recreation options was repeatedly identified as an important value to Municipal District residents in the MDP Community Survey (see Appendix B). The acquisition of open space, through the use of municipal and environmental reserve, will help to develop outdoor recreation opportunities, and the expansion of community facilities throughout the Municipal District.

OBJECTIVES 1. Identify and preserve areas in the Municipal District with significant recreational potential. 2. Minimize potential land use conflicts with current and future recreational areas and open spaces. 3. Provide Municipal District residents with a variety of recreation opportunities. 4. Continue to support urban communities in the provision of recreational facilities and services. 5. Identify and conserve historic resources and sites.

POLICIES 3.6.1 RECREATION AND a. The Municipal District should consider preparing a Regional OPEN SPACE Recreation and Open Space Master Plan to assess the community’s needs for recreation and other community facilities and services while addressing and mitigating conflicts between different land users. The plan should include land requirements for parks and open space as well as guidelines for the dedication and use of municipal reserve. AI b. Recreational development should be located on land with low agricultural potential. c. Existing community facilities should be fully developed and utilized prior to the establishment of new community recreation areas. The joint use of community facilities such as schools and sports complexes shall be encouraged, to maximize the recreational potential of the facilities. d. Recreational facilities that generate high volumes of traffic shall have direct access to a major road and may be required to meet the following criteria: i. provision of adequate on-site parking, ii. provision of buffers and/or screening around developed areas and parking lots, and iii. provision of a water and sewage disposal system. e. Public access to waterbodies and watercourses shall be enabled

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

through the dedication of environmental reserve and/or municipal reserve at the time of subdivision. f. In determining the allocation of municipal reserve, the Municipal District shall conform to the land use plans and policies contained in the applicable area structure plan or Recreation and Open Space Master Plan, if in place. g. Municipal Reserve should be applied to the creation of local or regional parks, recreation facilities, trails, and buffers between incompatible land uses where appropriate. h. Local community groups may be encouraged to assume management of local community facilities through a variety of management strategies. i. The Municipal District shall continue to co-operate in negotiating joint-use agreements with urban neighbours in determining recreational and community facilities and service needs in the Municipal District. 3.6.2 HISTORIC a. Areas with unique historic significance should be considered for RESOURCES preservation and potentially developed as recreational facilities. b. The Municipal District, working with historical societies such as the St. Jean Baptiste Historical Society and the Société Historique et Généalogique de Smoky River, should consider undertaking a study to identify historic resources and sites and develop a strategic framework to: i. classify historical resources and sites including the level of protection required, ii. identify actions needed to preserve historic resources and sites, and iii. identify the necessary management and potential uses of historical resources and sites. AI

Community Survey Results:

A majority of respondents indicated that protection of local heritage is important to them.

See MDP Survey Report for more detail.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

3.7 INFRASTRUCTURE Infrastructure in the Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 includes roads and bridges, water and sewer, stormwater management, utility and pipeline corridors, the airport, alternative energy systems and waste management. The efficient and sustainable maintenance and operation of community infrastructure is important to ratepayers who live and work in the Municipal District.

The transportation network in the Municipal District consists of both paved and unpaved municipal roads as well as provincial highways including Highways 2, 2A, 49, 676, 679, 744 and 747. Alberta Transportation is responsible for highways while the Municipal District is responsible for the development and maintenance of the local road system. Other transportation modes include railway between the Town of McLennan and the Town of Falher, and an airport south of the Village of Donnelly.

Water and sewer services are provided by the Municipal District to the Hamlets through the Smoky River Water Commission. Rural residents are either serviced privately or through the Smoky River Water Co-op. Effective stormwater management practices will improve surface and ground water quality and reduce the impact of run-off.

OBJECTIVES 1. Protect the integrity of the Municipal District’s infrastructure systems. 2. Increase regional connectivity through multiple modes of transportation. 3. Co-operate with Alberta Transportation, Alberta Environment and neighbouring municipalities when planning and managing transportation and utility systems. 4. Minimize negative environmental impacts from transportation and utility systems.

POLICIES

3.7.1 ROADS a. The Municipal District’s major transportation network is identified in the Municipal Context Map and should be used when evaluating future roadway development, land use planning, and development proposals. b. The Municipal District should update the Rural Roads Study to help guide investment in operation, maintenance, and expansion of the MD’s transportation network. AI c. All subdivision and development proposals must include legal and physical access to developed roads. Any required provision or upgrade of access or roads within a subdivision shall be developed in conformity with the Municipal District’s approved municipal level of service standards. d. Road widening shall be required by the developer for municipal roads at the time of subdivision along the frontage of the proposed lot(s). e. The Municipal District require proposed developments that are

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

expected to generate high traffic volumes or heavy loads, away from municipal roads and onto roads that have been designed and constructed to accommodate these impacts. f. The Municipal District may require Road Use Agreements for industrial operators. g. New road construction should be sensitive to the natural topography and adjacent land uses. Practices such as cut and fill, forest clearing, and visible scarring of the landscape should be minimized for access road construction. h. Provincial and federal approvals are required prior to new road construction crossing all permanent and naturally occurring waterbodies.

3.7.2 WATER AND a. The Municipal District should maintain the Utility Master Plan to SEWER help guide municipal investment in water, sanitary sewer, and stormwater management infrastructure in and around hamlets and multi-lot subdivisions. AI b. Communal water and/or sewer systems shall meet the following criteria: i. designed and certified by a qualified professional engineer registered in the province of Alberta; ii. approved by the province of Alberta; and iii. the Municipal District is not responsible for the construction, on-going operations, and maintenance as per the development agreement. c. On-site sewage disposal systems shall meet the most recent provincial standards for private sewage systems. d. Developers shall be required to demonstrate that all lots in a proposed multi-lot subdivision that are not serviced by a municipal water system will be individually serviced by on-site water wells, dugouts or cisterns.

3.7.3 STORMWATER a. Developers of commercial, industrial and multi-lot country MANAGEMENT residential subdivisions shall be required, as necessary, to prepare a stormwater management plan prepared and/or certified by a qualified professional engineer registered in Alberta and approved by the Municipal District. b. Stormwater management plans shall include best management practices to control runoff to pre-development rates including: i. topography, ii. watershed and development in relation to it,

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

iii. description of proposed minor drainage system (ditches/pipes/catch basin locations), iv. description of proposed major drainage systems (direction of surface drainage), v. proposed on-site detention/retention facilities (location/size), vi. related modeling and calculation information, and vii. provision for low impact development and other sustainable approaches to stormwater management. c. Individual developments will require site grading/drainage plans prepared in accordance with the stormwater management plan. If no stormwater management plan is in place, the preparation of plans shall follow generally accepted engineering practice. d. Where stormwater management systems create off-site impacts, developers shall be required to fund any upgrading required to accommodate the off-site impact(s).

3.7.4 UTILITY AND a. Encourage the location of transportation and utility lines and PIPELINE facilities in accordance with the following criteria: CORRIDORS i. Integrate transportation routes and utility lines within shared corridors and, where possible, in government road allowances. ii. Discourage the creation of fragmented parcels of land between rights-of-way. iii. Minimize impacts on recreational, historical or wildlife resource areas. b. The Municipal District shall maintain a current database of major utility and pipeline corridors. AI

3.7.5 AIRPORT a. The Municipal District shall consider development adjacent to the Donnelly Airport in accordance with provisions in the Land Use Bylaw. b. The Municipal District may consider contributing to the preparation of a Regional Airport Master Plan to address issues relating to future expansion of airport facilities. AI

3.7.6 ALTERNATIVE a. The Municipal District supports the development of renewable ENERGY SYSTEMS energy such as wind, solar, geothermal and waste energy and similar types of developments at appropriate locations and scales and in accordance with the Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Land Use Bylaw. AI

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

3.7.7 WASTE a. The Municipal District should continue to cooperate with MANAGEMENT neighbouring municipalities in establishing and managing regional waste management and recycling systems. b. The Municipal District should continually review the materials recycling program and commit to expanding the types of materials that are accepted for recycling as the market for materials permits. c. The Municipal District shall ensure that all subdivision and development applications in the vicinity of active or reclaimed landfill sites, sewage treatment facilities or transfer stations shall comply with the provincial regulations.

Did you know?

The Municipal District has over 40 km of railway, 1,780 km of maintained roads (not including provincially managed highways) and 135 bridges.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

3.8 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION The most significant environmental areas within the Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 are wetlands and river valleys. These areas provide many necessary functions including habitat for waterfowl and large ungulate populations, storage and filtration of stormwater runoff, and protection from erosion. Healthy natural areas and water resources are important components of a rural lifestyle and contribute to the overall health of the community including the agricultural land use priority as well as residential, commercial, and industrial development.

OBJECTIVES 1. Identify and protect environmentally sensitive and significant areas. 2. Minimize the negative impacts of development on water resources within the Municipal District. 3. Protect people and property from the impacts of development in hazardous environments. 4. Encourage environmental stewardship.

POLICIES 3.8.1 ENVIRONMENTALLY a. The following areas shall be regarded as Environmentally SENSITIVE LANDS Sensitive Lands (see Schedule C): i. A 30-metre area measured from the top of bank of all watercourses and the high watermark of all waterbodies within the Municipal District. The extent of the Environmentally Sensitive Land area shall be determined on a site-specific basis; ii. Areas identified as flood prone. iii. The following specific areas: 1. 0.8 km around Lake 16, Rat Lake, Winagami Lake, Kimawan Lake, Frank Lake, the Muskeg Lakes, Lac Magloire and Maurice Lakes; 2. the Smoky and Little Smoky River Valleys; 3. Wabatanisk within 16 km of its junction with the Little Smoky River; 4. Peavine Creek, Clouston Creek, Gunns Creek, McLeans Creek, Barstich Creek, Hunting Creek, Nicholl’s Creek, Whitemud Creek and Lalby Creek. 5. 1.6 km on either side of the Girouxville-Winagami Canal. b. The Municipal District should prepare an Environmentally Sensitive Lands Inventory. AI c. All uses within Environmentally Sensitive Lands shall be considered discretionary and may require: i. a geotechnical report, biophysical assessment, and/or a hydrogeological study by a qualified professional with

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

regard to potential impact on water resources; or ii. review by Alberta Environment and other appropriate provincial agencies; or iii. special design considerations with regard to landscaping, size of building, and other factors as determined by the Municipal District. d. Existing operations within Environmentally Sensitive Lands shall be encouraged to utilize best management practices.

3.8.2 RESERVES a. The Municipal District shall, as a condition of subdivision approval, require an environmental reserve or environmental reserve easement of not less than 30 metres in width from the high water mark of waterbodies and/or the top of bank of watercourses to the lot line. A greater setback may be required based on the recommendations of a geotechnical study undertaken by a qualified professional. 3.8.3 DEVELOPMENT a. The Municipal District may require, as a condition of SETBACK development permit approval where there is no subdivision, a comparable setback of 30 metres from the high water mark of waterbodies and/or the top of bank of watercourses to the lot line. A greater setback may be required based on the recommendations of a geotechnical study undertaken by a qualified professional. 3.8.4 HAZARD LANDS a. Development of land prone to flooding, erosion, subsidence or any other natural hazard shall be prohibited unless a geotechnical study prepared by a qualified professional describes how the development could safely proceed without harm to the property or environment.

3.8.5 NATURAL a. Natural resource extractive industries may be permitted in RESOURCE Environmentally Sensitive Lands provided the MD is satisfied that EXTRACTION the development will minimize any detrimental effects on the area and a reclamation plan is prepared outlining the method in which the land will be returned to its previous or improved condition when resource extraction activities cease. 3.8.6 PROVINCIAL AND a. The Municipal District should cooperate with provincial agencies, REGIONAL not-for-profit organizations and neighbouring municipalities to WATERSHED protect watersheds and maintain and improve the water quality PLANNING of surface and groundwater systems. 3.8.7 ENVIRONMENTAL a. The Municipal District should endeavour to promote STEWARDSHIP opportunities to raise awareness about environmental issues in an effort to encourage environmental responsibility in the community. For example: Mitigate conflicts with wildlife through the use of educational signage and wildlife-proof garbage receptables. AI

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

Community Survey Results:

Many survey respondents expressed concern over the loss of shelter belts and the mass clearing of trees and shrubs.

See MDP Survey Report for more detail.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

3.9 CROWN LAND The Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 contains many provincial lease areas that accommodate a range of economic activities including oil and gas, grazing and agriculture. The Municipal District has limited planning jurisdiction over Crown-owned lands but continues to promote a collaborative relationship with the province to further the interests of the residents, industry and the Municipal District.

OBJECTIVES 1. Cooperate with the Province in planning and development on Crown Lands.

POLICIES 3.9.1 GENERAL a. The Municipal District supports the use of Crown Lands for agricultural production, resource development, grazing, conservation, and recreational use. The sale or long-term lease of Crown Land within the White Area is supported when lands have agricultural value and for existing farm uses. b. The Municipal District does not support the sale of Crown Lands adjacent to water bodies, hazard lands or lands considered environmentally significant by the Crown. c. The Municipal District shall participate in the Province’s Upper Peace Regional Planning process.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

3.10 INTERMUNICIPAL PLANNING AND COOPERATION The Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 has a long history of cooperative planning with neighbouring municipalities in the form of joint agreements and with organizations though the Joint General Municipal Plan, the Smoky River Regional Water Commission, and Smoky River Regional Economic Development.

OBJECTIVES 1. Ensure that planning, transportation and servicing provisions are coordinated with the general development objectives of neighbouring municipalities. 2. Engage in joint planning of fringe land use areas with each of the Municipal District’s neighbouring municipalities. 3. Continue to investigate and pursue potential shared services, enhancing cooperation, and partnerships.

POLICIES 3.10.1 GENERAL a. The Municipal District may explore the development of an intermunicipal development plan with neighbouring municipalities to establish a clear land use planning framework guiding future subdivision and development in fringe land use areas. AI b. The Municipal District may pursue opportunities to negotiate transportation and utility servicing agreements with adjacent municipalities. c. The Municipal District shall continue to use and develop intermunicipal agreements and regional partnerships as a way to deliver services such as affordable housing, recreation, and emergency and community services in a cooperative manner. d. In the absence of an adopted intermunicipal development plan or intermunicipal agreement, the following should, at the discretion of the development authority and in addition to the requirements of the Land Use Bylaw, be referred to affected municipalities within the urban-rural fringe area (see Future Land Use Concept) for their review and comment prior to a decision being made by the Municipal District: i. any proposed amendments to the Municipal Development plan or substantive changes to the Land Use Bylaw, ii. other statutory and non-statutory plans and plan amendments, and iii. rezoning and subdivision applications.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

PART 4 IMPLEMENTATION

MONITORING AND REVIEW The Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Council should request an annual report from administration outlining progress towards the implementation of the Municipal Development Plan and consistency of development activity with the plan. AI

The Municipal District should undertake a major review and update of the Municipal Development Plan every 5 to 10 years. Minor amendments may occur on an as needed basis.

REVIEW As the Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Council and staff engage in strategic planning processes, the Municipal Development Plan should be consulted to assist in identifying, guiding and prioritizing the Municipal District’s work priorities.

PLANS, BYLAWS, PERMITS AND PROGRAMS As the Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 undertakes new initiatives, this Municipal Development Plan shall be consulted and will act as a guide for decision-making and actions.

DEVELOPMENT CHECKLIST After the Municipal Development Plan is adopted, a development checklist shall be incorporated into the development permit application and decision making process. The development checklist will ensure applicants are aware of the policies within the MDP, which may affect their application. The development checklist will also guide the Development Authority to ensure that the policies in the Municipal Development Plan are considered when development permit decisions are made. AI

PLAN CONSISTENCY Any subsequent planning activity, particularly updates to statutory documents such as the Land Use Bylaw or Area Structure Plans, or physical development shall be consistent with the Municipal Development Plan.

LAND USE BYLAW UPDATE Updates to the Land Use Bylaw are required to ensure that the direction set out in this Municipal Development Plan is implemented for new development proposals within the Municipal District. Changes which should be incorporated in the next amendment or rewrite of the Land Use Bylaw include:

 Section 3.1.2 requiring Development Agreements as a condition of development.  Section 3.1.8 resolving conflicting existing land use designations and existing uses.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

 Section 3.2.2 requiring an area structure plan for multi-parcel country residential development.  Section 3.2.6 update roadway setbacks for confined feeding operations.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

PART 5 SCHEDULES

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

Schedule A: Future Land Use Concept

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

SCHEDULE B: SITING RESTRICTIONS FOR CONFINED FEEDING OPERATIONS

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

SCHEDULE C: HYDROLOGICAL MAP

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

PART 6 APPENDICES

APPENDIX A – GLOSSARY OF TERMS Area Structure Plan means a long range land use and servicing plan adopted by bylaw and prepared in accordance with the MGA.

Best Management Practices mean practical ways to ensure risks to the environment are minimized without sacrificing economic productivity. They are site-specific remedies and practices implemented either voluntarily or as required by the Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130.

Better Agricultural Land (BAL) means a quarter section of which more than 50% of the soil is rated at 28% or greater by the Rural Farmland Assessment or, where no RFA is available, Canada Land Inventory for Agriculture Class 1 to 4 inclusive.

Buffer means a row of trees, shrubs, a berm, or fencing to provide visual screening and separation and/or sound dampening between sites, districts or incompatible land uses.

Confined Feeding Operation (CFO) means an operation as defined by the Agricultural Operations Practices Act, as amended. The standards and administration regulation of the Agricultural Operations Practices Act shall define the minimum size and minimum distance separation of a Confined Feeding Operation.

Development Agreement means an agreement between a developer or a property owner and the MD that defines the terms and conditions under which a development must be carried out in accordance with the Municipal Government Act as amended from time to time.

Dugout/Borrow Pit means the excavation of land which results in a human made feature that entraps water and includes excavation for water supply and borrow pits. At its deepest point, a dugout shall have a depth of no less than one (1) metre. Anything designed for a depth shallower than one metre may be considered an ornamental pond for landscaping purpose, excluding stormwater management facilities or other facilities or other features as required by the Subdivision Authority or Development Authority such as, but may not be limited to, ponds for water supply or fire protection.

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) means a review process required by the municipality to identify and assess the potential impacts of a proposed project or activity, evaluate alternatives, and formulate appropriate mitigation, management and monitoring measures. The process used, and the findings, results and recommendations are presented in the form of an environmental management plan (EMP) of an environmental impact statement (EIS). The EMP will generally include implementation strategies, including recommended policies for guiding future land use management decisions in vicinity of the feature(s) for which the EIA was prepared. Either the EMP or EIS may be required by the Municipality, subject to the complexity of the issue(s) under consideration.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

Environmental Reserve means land that is considered, in accordance with the Municipal Government Act, to be undevelopable because of its natural features or location (e.g. unstable slopes or flood prone); or, a strip of land abutting the bed and shore of a body of water or watercourse, that a developer may be required to dedicate at the time of subdivision. Environmental Reserve must be maintained in its natural state or used as park. Environmental Reserve may be dedicated to the MD or secured by easement agreement satisfactory to the MD.

Environmentally Sensitive Lands means all those areas identified within this plan as areas appropriate for long term protection. The boundaries of such shall be identified by the policies and guidelines contained within this Municipal Development Plan or by the criteria and discretion contained within the Land Use Bylaw.

Environmental Site Assessment means an investigation in relation to land to determine the environmental condition of property. It includes a Phase 1 environmental site assessment, a Phase 2 environmental site assessment and confirmatory investigation.

Existing Development means a development lawfully existing prior to the date of passing of this plan.

Farmstead means an existing habitable residence and associated buildings and improvements, including water and sewer servicing, utilities and access, on an unsubdivided quarter section in a rural municipality.

Farmstead Separation means a subdivided lot located in a rural area containing an existing dwelling unit and associated buildings.

Future Land Use Concept means a map providing direction with respect to the predominant land uses within an area of the municipality.

Hamlet means:

a) an area of land subdivided into lots and blocks as a town site, a plan of which is registered in a land titles office, or, b) an area designated by Council to be a Hamlet.

High Water Mark means the upper boundary of a waterbody. A high water mark shall be determined on a site-specific basis considering such factors as vegetation patterns, geomorphologic indicators and/or air photos.

Land Use Bylaw means a regulatory document that regulates development within the municipality.

Major Development means a large scale residential, industrial, commercial or recreational facility that, in the opinion of the Municipal District will create significant off-site impacts in terms of traffic generation, environmental impact, or similar effects.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

Minimum Distance Separation is the method for siting all new or expanding confined feeding operations.

Municipal Development Plan or Plan means the Smoky River Municipal Development Plan.

Municipal and/or School Reserve means land that is required in accordance with the Municipal Government Act at the time of subdivision for park and/or school purposes.

Riparian Area means any land that adjoins or directly influences a waterbody including floodplains. They are usually distinctly different from surrounding lands because of unique soil and vegetation characteristics that are influenced by the presence of water above the ground and below the surface.

Sensitive Uses defined by the Guidelines for New Development in Proximity to Railway Operations (2013), means a land use where routine or normal activities occurring at reasonably expected times would experience adverse effects from the externalities, such as noise and vibration, generated from the operation of a railway. Sensitive land uses include, but are not limited to, residences or other facilities where people sleep, and institutional structures such as schools and daycares, etc.

Statutory means a plan as referred to within the Municipal Government Act.

Top of Bank means the upper topographical break that signifies the upper edge of a valley or watercourse.

Waterbody means:

a) The bed and shore of a lake, lagoon, swamp, marsh, or any other natural body of water, or b) A reservoir or other human made surface feature, whether it contains water continuously or intermittently.

Watercourse means:

a) The bed and shore of a river, stream, creek or other natural body of water, or b) A canal, ditch or other human made surface feature whether it contains or conveys water continuously or intermittently.

Wetlands means land saturated with water long enough to promote wetland or aquatic processes as indicated by the poorly drained soils, hydrophytic vegetation, and various kinds of biological activity that are adapted to a wet environment.

Wildlife Corridor means a linear landscape feature composed of native vegetation that connects two or more areas of functional habitat and facilitates wildlife movement between the habitat patches. Corridors generally connect areas of former contiguous habitat rather than areas that were historically isolated.

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

APPENDIX B – COMMUNITY SURVEY AND REPORT

Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 Bylaw No. 16-886 Municipal Development Plan

COMMUNITY SURVEY REPORT

MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF SMOKY RIVER NO. 130 MUNICIPAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN October 2015

Prepared by Mackenzie Municipal Services Agency

Municipal Development Plan Survey Report October 2015

SURVEY OBJECTIVE The Municipal District of Smoky River No. 130 is developing a Municipal Development Plan (MDP), which is a long-range strategic document intended to guide the growth and development of a municipality into the future. The objective of the survey is to understand the attitudes and feelings of the residents about the present and future of the MD.

SURVEY PROCESS AND COMPONENTS CONSULTATION REACH The survey was developed in the spring of 2015 and launched to the public on June 21, 2015 at Honey Fest in the Town of Falher. Responses were accepted from June 21 to September 7, 2015.

The survey was managed by the Mackenzie Municipal Services Agency through Survey Monkey.

The MDP Community survey was advertised in every issue of the Smoky River Express from June 24 until September 2, 2015. An article about the MDP and the survey was published in the Smoky River Express on June 24, 2015. Information about the survey and the MDP process was posted on the MD’s website on both the homepage and on a separate MDP webpage that can be linked to from the homepage.

Paper copies of the survey and bookmarks with a link to the survey website were available at the MD office from June 24 until September 7, 2015.

Public Survey Results

A total of 61 surveys were completed, which represents 2.8% of the MD’s total population or 4% of the MD’s adult population, based on the most recent population count of 2,1251. Surveys were available both online and via hard copy at the MD office; 36 surveys were completed online and 25 hard copies were submitted to the MD.

1 Source: 2011 Stats Canada Census. Note the total population numbers differed within the Stat Canada data and are inconsistent.

Municipal Development Plan Survey Report October 2015

SURVEY RESULTS AND ANALYSIS

WHO RESPONDED The demographic questions in the survey allow staff to determine if the responses are representative of the MD’s population. As Figure 1 shows, the survey attracted responses from respondents between the ages of 15 and 79. The groups with some of the lowest population levels in the MD’s 2011 Census, ages 25 to 34 (about 8%) had the second highest response rates (11-13%). The group with highest response rates was the 45 to 59 year olds (15-17%), who have the highest population rates after children under 9 years. Seniors aged 80+ (~2% of the population) were not represented in the survey respondents.

18.0%

16.0%

14.0%

12.0%

10.0% Survey Response 8.0% MD Population (2011 Census) 6.0%

4.0%

2.0%

0.0%

Figure 1 – Response to “how old are you?” and age distribution of the MD of Smoky River from 2011 census (60 responses, 1 skipped)

Figure 2 shows that the male to female ratio of respondents is similar to the gender ratio in the 2011 Census. Females have a slightly higher response rate than males but have a slightly lower population.

80.0% 57.6% 52.7% 60.0% 47.2% 42.4%

40.0% Survey Response 2011 Census 20.0%

0.0% Female Male

Figure 2 Response to the question “what is your gender?” (60 responses, 1 skipped) compared to 2011 Census results

Municipal Development Plan Survey Report October 2015

The majority of survey respondents (69.5%) identified themselves as English speakers (Figure 3) although there was no option to choose both so bilingual speakers were not necessarily captured in responses to this question.

30.5% French English 69.5%

Figure 3 Response to "what is your primary language?" (59 responses, 2 skipped)

Most of the survey respondents were residents of the MD (96.7%%) (Figure 4) while 8.3% were property owners only. The majority of the business owners were also residents of the MD.

1.7%

23.3% Resident of the MD of Smoky River No. 130 Property Owner (but not a 8.3% resident) Business Owner

96.7% None of the above

Figure 4 Response to the question about where survey respondents reside (60 responses, 1 skipped)

Municipal Development Plan Survey Report October 2015

The majority of respondents (86%) have lived in the MD for 11 or more years while 13.4% of respondents have lived in the MD for 10 years or less (Figure 5).

66.7%

20.0%

11.7%

1.7%

1 year or less 1-5 years 6-10 years 11-20 years 21+ years

Figure 5 – Response to “How long have you lived in the MD of Smoky River No. 130” (60 responses, 1 skipped)

72.8% of respondents live on a farmstead or acreage within the MD (Figure 6). The remaining 27% live in surrounding communities including the 2 hamlets, Guy and Jean Cote. Under the “Other” category, the respondents indicated they lived on both a farmstead in the MD and in an urban municipality, another respondent answered Whitemud.

50.8%

22.0%

6.8% 6.8% 3.4% 3.4% 5.1% 1.7% 0.0%

Figure 6 Response to "where do you live?" (59 responses, 2 skipped) Municipal Development Plan Survey Report October 2015

HOUSING 100% of respondents who live in the MD currently live in single detached homes (Figure 7) and the majority of them own their home (Figure 8). While most respondents indicated they would like to continue to live in a single-detached home, 18% indicated they would like to move into a multi-unit dwelling or a supportive living arrangement in the next five years. Comments in the “Other” category included a condo, acreage and an ecologically friendly home.

120.0%

100.0% 100.0% 87.7%

80.0%

60.0%

40.0%

Current Home

20.0%

5.3% Future Home Needs

3.5% 1.8% 1.8% 0.0%

Figure 7 Comparison of responses to "what type of home do you live in today?" (59 responses, 2 skipped) and "what type of home do you believe will meet your housing needs in 5 years?" (57 responses, 4 skipped)

4.9%

Own Rent

95.1%

Figure 8 Response to "do you own or rent your home?" (61 responses, 0 skipped)

Municipal Development Plan Survey Report October 2015

EMPLOYMENT In Figure 9, the majority of respondents indicated they work primarily in the MD followed by Falher and other communities within the MD. Responses in the “Other” category include Peace River, Wanham, High Prairie and Whitemud.

60.0% 49.2% 50.0%

40.0%

30.0% 16.4% 20.0% 13.1% 6.6% 10.0% 3.3% 3.3% 4.9% 1.6% 0.0% 1.6% 0.0%

Figure 9 Response to "where is your work mostly based?" (61 responses, 0 skipped)

Municipal Development Plan Survey Report October 2015

GENERAL SATISFACTION Respondents were asked why they choose to live in the MD (Figure 10) and the top 3 answers were employment, family and lifestyle while recreation, cost of living and francophone culture were less popular reasons. These answers are reflected in responses to other questions throughout the survey and in Figure 11.

70.0% 62.3% 60.0% 50.8% 49.2% 50.0%

40.0%

30.0% 19.7% 20.0% 14.8% 16.4% 11.5% 9.8% 10.0%

0.0%

Figure 10 Response to "why do you choose to live in the md?" (61 responses, 0 skipped)

Respondents were asked if they expect to be living in the MD in 5 years and 83.6% answered “yes” (Figure 11). The 16.4% who answered “No” were given the follow up question “If no, what do you expect will prompt your move?” 6 out of 8 responses indicated limited employment opportunities while the remaining answers identified challenges with raising a family in the MD such as high cost of living and limited access to services.

16.4%

Yes No

83.6%

Figure 11 Response to “do you expect to be living in the md 5 years from now?” (61 responses, 0 skipped)

Municipal Development Plan Survey Report October 2015

LIKES AND DISLIKES Respondents were asked their opinion about what they liked and disliked about the MD. Many of the likes relate to the rural character and outdoor recreation in the MD. The dislikes were related to the limited recreation options available, both indoor and outdoor, indicating a desire to build on and improve recreation and social opportunities in the MD.

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THE MD… In the Winter: In the Summer:  Well kept roads  Close to the river  Bowling alley  Quadding  Hockey rink  Hunting  Gym  Outdoor recreation  Skidoo rallies  Watino river banks  Ice fishing and skating  Being at the lakes  Natural beauty  Camping  The ski hill  Outdoor pool  Rest  Farmers day  Quiet country life  Long summer nights  People  Honey Fest  Curling  Nature and wildlife  Trade show  Quiet, peaceful  Midnight madness  Lakes  Fireworks and family events  Weather  Snow  Canola fields  Meeting friends  Family and friends

WHAT I DISLIKE ABOUT THE MD… In the Winter: In the Summer:  No ferry service  Heavy industrial traffic on the highway  Not much to do  Rough gravel roads  Bad road conditions  I miss the Donnelly Fair  No indoor pool nearby  No skateboard park  Snow  No youth summer programs  Not many activities  Mosquitoes  Snow bound after winter storms  Windy  Driving at least 20 minutes to get anywhere  Driving culture – not enough outdoor hiking  Lack of activities for kids under 5 and cycling opportunities  Cold  Limited recreation facilities  Limited recreation facilities  Duplication of facilities  Plowing my own driveway  No shaded areas at playgrounds  No indoor pool  Dusty roads

Municipal Development Plan Survey Report October 2015

PROPERTY TAX RATE One of the questions in the survey asked respondents’ opinion about the current property tax rate. 66.1% believe it is reasonable while 33.9% believe it is too high (Figure 12).

33.9% Reasonable Too high 66.1%

Figure 12 Response to "do you believe the current property tax rate is too low, reasonable or too high?" (56 responses, 5 skipped)

A follow-up question asked respondents if they would support an increase in the tax rate to support local government services and infrastructure. While the majority of respondents responded “No,” 25.9% indicated they would support an increase up to $500 a year and 1.9% indicated they would support an increase greater than $500 a year (Figure 13). Respondents were asked to describe what improvements they would like to see with a property tax increase and responses identified expanded and improved recreation options, improved roads and road maintenance, increasing services and business to attract young families, subsidized daycare, more seniors housing options and better bylaw enforcement.

No 72.2%

Yes greater than $500 a year 1.9%

Yes up to $500 a year 25.9%

0.0% 10.0% 20.0% 30.0% 40.0% 50.0% 60.0% 70.0% 80.0%

Figure 13 Response to "would you be willing to have an increase in your property taxes to support an improvement to local government services and infrastructure?" (54 responses, 7 skipped)

Municipal Development Plan Survey Report October 2015

THOUGHTS ON THE MD This section of the survey gave respondents the opportunity to give their opinion about a variety of topics related to the MD.

21.8%

Yes No

78.2%

Figure 14 Response to “Does the MD have the basic services you believe your community should provide you?” (55 responses, 6 skipped)

Over ¾ of respondents believe that the MD provides enough basic services (Figure 14). Those that disagreed listed the need for more variety of recreation services, better local access to essential businesses like grocery stores, increased access to health services in the urban areas and expanded landfill hours.

The next 4 questions in the survey asked respondents to rate different aspects of administration, development, services and recreation based on a rating system with 5 options: Excellent, Good, Average, Poor and No Opinion. If respondents rated a service as “Poor”, they were asked to elaborate on their opinion. The following graphs offer an overall picture of responses while the comments are summarized.

Municipal Development Plan Survey Report October 2015

Administration

MD of Smoky River Communications 4

No Opinion Access to local government 2 Poor Average Planning and Development Services Good Excellent

MD of Smoky River Administration

0 10 20 30 40 50 60

Figure 15 Response to "What is your opinion about the following aspects of municipal administration in the md?" (57 responses, 4 skipped)

Overall most respondents indicated that they were satisfied with MD administration. The category with the most “Poor” ratings and comments was Communications. Respondents commented that information is not communicated to residents about projects and issues within the MD and that it is difficult to voice concerns to administration.

Municipal Development Plan Survey Report October 2015

Development

Roads: Snow Removal 7

Roads: Maintenance 17

Roads: State of Repair 13 No Opinion Poor Roads: Width 9 Average Housing choice 6 Good Excellent Location of new development Ability to meet your everyday needs with the goods and services available in the MD 0 10 20 30 40 50 60

Figure 16 Response to “What is your opinion about the following aspects of development in the MD?” (57 responses, 4 skipped)

The development category elicited many comments and “Poor” ratings about roads – 19 out of the 21 comments were regarding road maintenance, snow removal and/or state of repair.

Specific concerns included:

 slow snow removal on secondary roads;  improper repair of potholes;  overloaded trucks contributing to road deterioration;  poor maintenance of gravel roads; and  interference of water flow due to grader operators tossing debris into ditches.

The other two comments were concerned with a lack of new housing available.

Municipal Development Plan Survey Report October 2015

Services

Storm Drainage

Municipal Sewer System

Municipal Water System 3 No Opinion Bylaw Enforcement 8 Poor

Protective Services (Fire, Police, EMS) 6 Average Good Landfill Service 7 Excellent Recycling Service 10

Access to telecommunications and broadband 12

0 10 20 30 40 50 60

Figure 17 Response to “What is your opinion about the following services in the MD?” (57 responses, 4 skipped)

The services category with the most “Poor” ratings and the most comments was recycling services – respondents identified the need for recycling bins at the landfills and a desire for cardboard and glass recycling. Landfill service received many comments about the limited hours of operation and the lack of recycling available on site. Many of the bylaw enforcement and protective services comments were regarding issues with dogs and yard maintenance and the size of the area to be patrolled versus the amount of protective and enforcement services. Several comments were also made that the cost of joining the water co-op is prohibitive.

Municipal Development Plan Survey Report October 2015

Recreation

Parks/Open Spaces: Quality 5

No Opinion Parks/Open Spaces: Quantity 7 Poor Average Public Recreation Facilities 10 Good Excellent

Recreation options 7

0 10 20 30 40 50 60

Figure 18 Response to “What is your opinion about recreation options in the MD?” (57 responses, 4 skipped)

Several of the comments in the recreation section pointed out the need for recreation options other than team sports such as community arts spaces, aerobics and dance, indoor playgrounds and a squash court. Responses pointed out the lack of parks and the poor quality of campgrounds in the MD due to vandalism. Many commented on the need to collaborate with surrounding communities to invest in arena improvements.

Municipal Development Plan Survey Report October 2015

Questions 23 and 24 asked respondents to indicate their level of agreement with statements about the environment and other aspects of the MD and were given the options Strongly Agree, Agree, No Opinion, Disagree or Strongly Disagree.

More protection is needed of forested areas in the the MD 28 13

Public access to rivers and streams is adequate 24 11

The quality of our rivers and streams is good 38

More protection is needed of biodiversity, vegetation and waterways 29

0 10 20 30 40 50 60

Strongly Agree Agree No Opinion Disagree Strongly Disagree

Figure 19 Response to "please indicate your level of agreement for the following statements:" (57 responses, 4 skipped)

Most respondents indicated agreement that more protection is needed of forested areas and waterways and public access and quality of rivers and streams is adequate.

A follow-up question was posed: “What do you think could be improved in our rural environment?” and respondents identified:

 more access to the river including parks, campsites and boat launches;  the need for a long-term recreation plan;  protection of ditches from farming activities; and  more awareness about recycling.

Almost half of the comments were concerned that the loss of shelter belts and the mass clearing of vegetation is creating a windier environment.

Municipal Development Plan Survey Report October 2015

Protection of our local heritage is important to me 41

Recreation opportunities are accessible (eg. skating, camping, skiing, cycling, fishing, etc.) 33 14

There is a sufficient range of housing types available (eg. single-detached, duplex, row housing, etc.) 13 28

Preservation of agricultural land should be prioritized over the approval of multiparcel subdivision 26 19 11

The character (visual amenity and landscape) of the rural areas could be improved 26 23

0 10 20 30 40 50 60

Strongly Agree Agree No Opinion Disagree Strongly Disagree

Figure 20 Response to "please indicate your level of agreement for the following statements:" (57 responses, 4 skipped)

The statements in question 24 addressed five aspects of the municipality: heritage, recreation, housing, agriculture and rural character.

Respondents overwhelmingly agreed that protection of local heritage is important to them while most respondents disagreed that there is a sufficient range of housing types. While most respondents agreed that recreation opportunities are accessible, there was some disagreement, and recreation is identified throughout the survey as needing improvement.

While most respondents agreed that agricultural land should be prioritized and that the character of rural landscapes could be improved, almost as many had no opinion while a minority disagreed.

Municipal Development Plan Survey Report October 2015

THEMES IN THE FEEDBACK Some of the questions in the survey invited additional feedback to round out some of the multiple choice answers that were offered. Question 29 asked “Given the information you’ve provided, please describe how you would like the rural area and/or your rura l community to look in 10-20 years” (28 responses, 33 skipped), question 30 asked “What are the specific demands placing pressure on your rural community (if any)?” (17 responses, 44 skipped) and question 31, “What specific changes would you like to see in the rural area and/or your rural community?” (18 responses, 43 skipped).

A few themes emerged from these responses that highlight the concerns and desires of the respondents regarding the MD. These themes are common rural municipal issues and can be addressed both directly and indirectly within the Municipal Development Plan.

1. Inter-municipal Cooperation Many responses in the three open ended questions addressed the need for more intermunicipal cooperation in order to accomplish specific goals such as better recreation and community programs. The concern that was expressed the most was that municipalities within the MD are all working towards similar goals that would be better achieved with more collaboration between communities.

2. Environment Concern about the environment was identified throughout the survey and the main concern is regarding the loss of trees and shelter belts and pollution from industry. One suggestion was made to implement a program to plant trees on a regular basis to ensure a steady stock in the MD.

3. Recreation and Community The main concern with recreation was the desire for more options in the winter besides hockey including indoor activities as well as more summer recreation options for kids and adults to encourage a healthy lifestyle. Respondents also commented that they would like to see the MD provide more support to local community organizations and programs for families.

4. Business Respondents were concerned that local businesses are not being supported and promoted by the MD and that there is too much dependence on the oil industry as an economic driver.

5. Infrastructure Road maintenance was a concern of respondents, especially secondary and gravel roads, and concerns that heavily loaded industrial vehicles were contributing to the rapid deterioration of road infrastructure.

Survey

ABOUT YOU:

1. Are you a (check all that apply):  Resident of the MD of Smoky River  Business Owner No. 130  None of the above  Property Owner (but not a resident)

2. How long have you lived in the MD of Smoky River No. 130?  1 year or less  11-20 years  1-5 years  21+ years  6-10 years

3. Where do you live?  Farmstead in the MD  Girouxville  Acreage in the MD  Donnelly  Guy  McLennan  Jean Côté  Other ______ Falher

4. How old are you?  0-9  35-39  65-69  10-14  40-44  70-74  15-19  45-49  75-79  20-24  50-54  80 +  25-29  55-59  30-34  60-64

5. What is your gender?  Male  Female  Other______

6. What is your primary language?  French  English  Other______

7. How many people in live in your household? (please respond with a number)

____Adults _____Children (17 and Under)

Municipal Development Plan Survey Report October 2015

8. Why do you choose to live in the MD? (Check all that apply)  Employment  Cost of living  Francophone  Recreation  Family culture opportunities  Lifestyle  Schools  Other______

9. What type of home do you live in today?  House/  Duplex/ Semi-  Apartment Manufactured Home Detached  Supportive Living  Row House  Other

10. Do you own or rent your home?  Own  Rent

11. Does your home currently meet your housing needs?  Yes  No a. If not, please explain:

12. What type of home do you believe will meet your housing needs in 5 years?  House/  Duplex/ Semi-  Apartment Manufactured Home Detached  Supportive Living  Row House  Other

13. Has your home been impacted by overland flooding?  Yes  No

14. Where is your work mostly based?  MD of Smoky River No. 130  Donnelly  Guy  McLennan  Jean Côté  Home-based business in the MD  Falher  Unemployed  Girouxville  Other______

15. Do you expect to be living in the MD 5 years from now?  Yes  No

a. If no, what do you expect will prompt your move?

Municipal Development Plan Survey Report October 2015

16. What do you enjoy about living in the MD? a. In summer?

b. In winter?

17. What do you dislike about living in the MD? a. In summer?

b. In winter?

Municipal Development Plan Survey Report October 2015

YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE MD:

18. Does the MD have the basic services you believe your community should provide you?  Yes  No a. If no, what is lacking?

19. What is your opinion of the following aspects of Municipal Administration in the MD?

Excellent Good Average Poor No Opinion a. MD of Smoky River Administration b. Planning and Development Services c. Access to local government d. MD of Smoky River Communications

If you rated any elements as Poor, please indicate why.

20. What is your opinion about the following aspects of development in the MD?

Excellent Good Average Poor No Opinion a. Ability to meet your everyday needs with the goods and services available in the MD b. Location of new development c. Housing choice d. Roads: Width e. Roads: State of repair f. Roads: Maintenance g. Roads: Snow Removal

If you rated any elements as Poor, please indicate why.

Municipal Development Plan Survey Report October 2015

21. What is your opinion of the following services in the MD?

Excellent Good Average Poor No Opinion a. Access to telecommunications and broadband b. Recycling Service c. Landfill Service d. Protection Services (Fire, Police, EMS) e. Bylaw Enforcement f. Municipal Water System g. Municipal Sewer System h. Storm Drainage

If you rated any elements as Poor, please indicate why.

22. What is your opinion about recreation in the MD?

Excellent Good Average Poor No Opinion a. Recreation options b. Public Recreation Facilities (pool, arena, curling rink, etc.) c. Parks/Open Spaces: Quantity d. Parks/Open Spaces: Quality

If you rated any elements as Poor, please indicate why.

23. Please indicate your level of agreement for the following statements:

ENVIRONMENT Strongly Agree No Disagree Strongly Agree Opinion Disagree a. More protection is needed of biodiversity, vegetation and waterways b. The quality of our rivers and streams is good c. Public access to rivers and streams is adequate d. More protection is needed of forested areas in the MD

Municipal Development Plan Survey Report October 2015

e. What do you think could be improved in our rural environment?

24. Please indicate your level of agreement for the following statements:

COMMUNITY Strongly Agree No Disagree Strongly Agree Opinion Disagree a. The character (visual amenity and landscape) of the rural areas could be improved b. Preservation of agricultural land should be prioritized over the approval of multiparcel subdivision c. There is a sufficient range of housing types available (i.e. single-detached, manufactured, duplex, semit- detached, row house, apartment, supportive living) d. Recreation opportunities are accessible (eg. skating, camping, skiing, cycling, fishing, etc.) e. Protection of our local heritage is important to me

25. Do you believe the current property tax rate is  Too low  Reasonable  Too high

26. Would you be willing to have an increase in your property taxes to support an improvement to local government services and infrastructure?

There is NO proposal to increase property taxes associated with the Municipal Development Plan. This question is hypothetical only!

 Yes up to $500 a year  Yes greater than  No $500 a year

If Yes, what improvements would you like to see?

Municipal Development Plan Survey Report October 2015

THE FUTURE

27. What do you think could be improved in our rural community?

28. If you live in a rural area, do you have any future aspirations for managing your land (for example, traditional or small-scale farming or horticulture, starting a business, tourism)? (Please describe)

29. Given the information you’ve provided, please describe how you would like the rural area and/or your rural community to look in 10-20 years.

30. What are the specific demands placing pressure on your rural community (if any)?

31. What specific changes would you like to see in the rural area and/or your rural community?

Please provide any additional feedback you have:

Thank you for your time and input.