March 20, 2020 - County News County News

Friday, March 20, 2020 | Volume 3

What’s Inside

2 Collaboration Frameworks 3 FCSS COVID-19 Response 4 Rural Crime Watch 6 Mirror Corner Lacombe County officially activated its’ Emergency guidelines for social distancing. We also ask that you 7 Flood Preparedness Coordination Centre in response to the COVID-19 refrain from attending any public meetings if you have pandemic. We are carefully monitoring COVID-19 public recently travelled outside of Canada or are feeling unwell. 9 Take it Off reminder! health risk for any new developments and will follow protocols laid out by Alberta Health Services’ (AHS). Highlights of our meetings are posted to the website 11 Twine Recycling shortly after each County Council meeting. Lacombe County recommends people in the county 14 Subdivision Activity & Map and urban centres take the same respiratory illness General Prevention Tips precautions as with every cold and influenza season. 16 Ellis Bird Farm: Thank You There is currently no widespread transmission of • Wash your hands often and well. Wash with warm water and soap to remove both visible dirt and COVID-19 in Canada, and the risk of contracting the virus 17 Lacombe Regional Tourism is low, but this risk could increase in the coming weeks. invisible germs. Ensure you wash all parts of your hands, including under fingernails. This should take at 18-19 Council Highlights Actions at the Lacombe County Office least 20 seconds. For the protection of staff and visitors, we have added • Wash your hands before preparing or eating food, 20 Online Service Requests hand sanitizing stations at our office to help limit the after using the washroom, blowing your nose, spread of the virus and other germs. At this time, our handling garbage, or touching shared objects. 22-23 Around the County office is open for business, however, we do have some • Avoid touching your face or mouth with unwashed alternative options for service available and ask that you hands. use the options below if you have recently travelled or are • Cough or sneeze into a tissue and dispose of the www.lacombecounty.com feeling unwell: tissue into a plastic-lined garbage bin. Wash your hands afterwards. If no tissue is available, cough or • phone (403-782-6601) sneeze into a flexed elbow. • email ([email protected]) • Clean and disinfect surfaces that are frequently • online service request portal, touched. • Lacombe County’s Facebook page Lacombe County supports the AHS recommendation Additional Resources regarding self isolation by mandating that any County During a crisis, misinformation will circulate. The most employees who have travelled outside of Canada current and accurate information about COVID-19 can be (returning after March 12, 2020), shall not return to their found at www.alberta.ca/covid19, or from the following workplace for a period of 14 days and are asked to self- resources: isolate (per AHS recommendations). Alternate working • Alberta Health Services arrangements during the isolation period will be evaluated • Government of Alberta to ensure business continuity, and at this time, Lacombe • Center for Disease Control Publication Mail Agreement No 43726064 County does not anticipate any disruption of municipal • World Health Organization services. • Health Link 811 Return undeliverable items to: Lacombe County Public Meetings RR3, Lacombe, AB T4L 2N3 At this time, regular Council, Council committee, and If you have symptoms and recently travelled outside Subdivision and Development Appeal Board (SDAB) Canada or were exposed to someone who has COVID-19, meetings will continue, but municipal staff and the public stay home and call Health Link 811 for instructions. Do not are encouraged not to gather in Council chambers unless go to the ER. If you need immediate medical attention, call participating in the meeting. Seating in the Council 911 and inform them that you may have COVID-19. Chambers has been rearranged so that it follows the AHS

County News is available to read on our website every month. If you wish to stop receiving County News by mail, email [email protected] with your mailing address and we will take you off our mailing list. CountyCounty News News - - AugustMarch 20, 18, 2020 2017 Lacombe County signs Intermunicipal Collaboration Frameworks with neighbouring counties

In recent weeks, Lacombe County Council signed other County is required. The criteria for three separate Intermunicipal Collaboration assessing the desirability for funding the Background Information: Intermunicipal Frameworks (ICF) with Red Deer County, County of project and/or service and a process for Collaboration Frameworks (ICFs) Stettler, and Camrose County. Following discussions, determining participation in it is also identified. Municipalities that share a common boundary must the municipalities worked out details for the ICF • An Intermunicipal Committee comprised of create an Intermunicipal Collaboration Framework document, which specifies what and how services two elected officials and two staff members (ICF), which is a new legislated requirement that was are funded and delivered, ensuring they are working from each municipality will be the forum for introduced in the Modernized Municipal Government together efficiently and economically for their reviewing the ICF on a go-forward basis. Act in 2016. Municipalities have until March 31, 2020 ratepayers. to finalize all required ICFs for their municipality. “This agreement formalizes the strong relationship “The signing of these Intermunicipal Collaboration between our two Counties. I would like to thank Frameworks are intended to: Frameworks demonstrates the positive, collaborative Administration on both sides for their hard work. • provide for integrated and strategic planning, relationships that we have with our municipal Red Deer County shares values as well as borders delivery and funding of intermunicipal services neighbours in Stettler County, Camrose County and with our neighbours, and we will continue to build • allocate scarce resources efficiently in delivering Red Deer County,” said Lacombe County Reeve relationships that lead to healthy and prosperous local services Paula Law. “While we might not share direct services conditions for everyone living in this region.” • ensure municipalities contribute funding to – like road maintenance – ratepayers access public ~ Mayor Jim Wood, Red Deer County services that benefit their residents amenities, like recreational spaces or parks, on both sides of the border. This framework ensures “We appreciate the opportunity to thoroughly Each framework must identify which service continued collaboration and communication between evaluate existing opportunities and investigate new they provide, which service is shared between our municipalities.” collaborative opportunities through the creation of the municipalities, and which are provided by third IFCs. We look forward to maintaining these municipal parties. The ICF also details how the services listed The individual agreements that Lacombe County has partnerships.” below are funded/delivered: with each of Red Deer County, County of Stettler, and ~ Reeve, Larry Clarke, County of Stettler No. 6 • transportation Camrose County include the following points. • water and wastewater • Each County will continue to provide "Lacombe County and Camrose County, through • solid waste all services to its respective residents our council members and our administration, have • emergency services independently of the other County. fostered good working relationships with our rural • recreation, and • If either County initiates a new project and/ neighbours for the benefit of our ratepayers. The • • any other services that benefit residents or service that may require a cost-sharing signing of the ICF reinforces our continued success." in more than one of the municipalities that are agreement, appropriate notification to the ~ Reeve Cindy Trautman, Camrose County parties to the framework. City of Lacombe, Lacombe County sign Intermunicipal Collaboration Framework Master Agreement The City of Lacombe and Lacombe beneficial process, and the signing of said City of Lacombe Chief Administra- alism and cooperation they displayed County are pleased to announce the ICF Master Agreement formalizes tive Officer Matthew Goudy. “Residents in negotiating this mutually beneficial the signing of an Intermunicipal Col- the ongoing collaboration and commu- of both communities will continue to agreement.” laboration Framework (ICF) Master nication between our two municipali- benefit from a collaborative approach to Agreement to plan and deliver shared ties.” service delivery, and shared expenses.” The ICF Master Agreement, and the programs and services effectively, sub-agreements that flow from it, dem- efficiently and economically to the resi- “The long-standing relationship we “Over the years, the County and City onstrate the commitment of the City of dents of both communities. have with the City of Lacombe has have collaborated on numerous ini- Lacombe and Lacombe County to work consistently been a positive one,” said tiatives, such as the Gary Moe Auto collaboratively to jointly provide facilities “The City of Lacombe and Lacombe Lacombe County Reeve Paula Law. “By Group Sportsplex renovations, the joint and deliver services and programs for County share a common border and completing this Intermunicipal Collabo- economic area on our borders, and the the benefit of both municipalities, and to common interests, and we recognize ration Framework, we took the best- support we have provided to local com- manage growth and plan for the future. that we both have a significant role to practices we have used over the years munity groups and organizations,” said play in the continued success of our to help develop this formal agreement Lacombe County Manager Tim Tim- The ICF Master Agreement contains a shared region,” said City of Lacombe between Lacombe County and the City mons. “The foundation we have built, number of sub-agreements, some of Mayor Grant Creasey. “The best inter- of Lacombe.” based on mutual respect and dedica- which still require additional work be- ests of residents and ratepayers has tion to our ratepayers, was used to fore being re-considered by the respec- been our focus throughout this mutually “Navigating the ICF process with La- create this framework, and it will ensure tive Councils. This work is planned over combe County was a pleasure, our positive relationship will continue the next two years. as is often the case with our well into the future. I would like to thank long-standing regional partner,” the City of Lacombe for the profession- 2 March 20, 2020 - County News Lacombe & District Family and Community Support Services changes in response to COVID-19 Pandemic In light of the Government of Alberta’s updated offer “Frozen Meals” for seniors and those who church supports will be extremely important during response to the COVID-19 Pandemic, Lacombe are shut-in. this medical emergency. & District FCSS has made the difficult decision to • The Home Support Program, which provides light discontinue most services and only operate essential housekeeping is cancelled until further notice. Please note for medication needs, all pharmacies in services until further notice. Our office staff will be • The Volunteer Income Tax Program is cancelled Lacombe do receive prescription order and provide answering phone calls and responding to community until further notice. delivery service. inquiries during this time. • Connex Transportation Service will continue FCSS will remain in contact with clients and reach out to provide specialized transportation service to others to ensure the essential services important “The decision was not taken lightly; however the for seniors and special needs clients to attend health and safety of our community is of the utmost to daily life are being met. FCSS is in contact with the medical appointments and weekly dialysis City of Lacombe Emergency Management Team and importance,” said FCSS Director Susan MacDonald. treatments in Red Deer. Connex will not be “I realize this is a very stressful time for all of the Provincial health authorities, who will guide the offering the weekly CO-OP shopping free community response to this pandemic. us, especially our seniors and those with limited rides, but individuals may call in and book an resources and supports.” appointment to go grocery shopping. The Lacombe & District FCSS office will be answering FCSS staff will be contacting all clients to provide • FCSS will continue to service our Lifeline clients phone calls regarding services and assisting with any them with the following changes to services, effective if any emergency or equipment concerns should community inquiries and supports. The office can be Tuesday, March 17, 2020: arise. reached by calling (403) 782-6637, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. or • The delivery of the Hot Meals on Wheels program During this time of social distancing FCSS by email at [email protected]. is cancelled until further notice. The program will encourages family members and caregivers to check in on their family members. Family and community Lacombe County provides funds for new signs for Medicine River Crime Watch Society

Manager of Community Peace Officer "It is our hope that the signs will remind Services for Lacombe County, Mark Sproule, citizens to report suspicious activity," said presented a cheque to our Medicine River Dana Kreil, crime watch society vice president Crime Watch Society secretary/treasurer Dick and Lacombe County Councillor for Division 7, Snook and Dana Kreil, the vice president of the Medicine River Crime watch Society. The Lacombe County Operations Department helped to hang the signs for the society. The cheque was for a grant of $1,500 for small signs purchased by the society to add The Medicine River Crime Watch Society to our existing Crime Watch signs. The small thanks Lacombe County for their continued signs say “suspicious activity reported”. support and for providing the grant for the signs, as well as installing the signs in the county.

3 CountyCounty News News - - AugustMarch 20, 18, 2020 2017 RURAL CRIME WATCH Manager of Community Peace Officer Services recognized for long-term service Mark Sproule, Lacombe career working as a Special County's Manager of Constable, with Inspection Community Peace Officer Services, now Commercial Services, was recognized Vehicle Enforcement in 2004. for his long-term commitment He was stationed in Red and received his 12-year Deer until 2007 and than bars in front of his colleagues Rocky Mountain House until from across the province 2009 at which time he was during the annual Alberta hired as a Community Peace Association of Community Officer with Lacombe County. Peace Officers conference. In 2016, Mark was promoted He was presented with the to Sergeant and is the bars by Curtis Zablocki, Manager of CPO Services deputy commissioner of for Lacombe County and the RCMP. current Vice-President for the AACPO. Mark Sproule started his Medicine River Rural Alberta Provincial Crime Watch update Rural Crime Watch Association The Medicine River Crime Watch Society had a good crowd out The Alberta Rural Crime Through Environmental to the Eckville Community Hall on February 27. The group heard Watch Association (APRCWA) Design (CPTED) concepts. from the chief Crown Prosecutor from Red Deer. RCMP from both has its beginning roots in The principles in CPTED Sylvan Lake and Rocky Mountain house detachments also gave rural Alberta, during a time form the base for our crime updates. when concerned Albertans, prevention sessions held The Medicine operating locally, felt a need throughout the province. River Crime Watch for a provincial organization to Society meet- tie together the scattering of ing, scheduled for local rural crime groups and Check out the MAP at www. April 23 at 7 PM, has been CAN- associations. ruralcrimewatch.ab.ca to CELLED. Watch find a Rural Crime Watch the County News Association in your area for updates once a (Lacombe County has new time/location information on local crime can be determined. watch groups on its website at www.lacombecounty.com). Want to report something suspicious and don't know the RCMP phone number? This gave the cause, a We have an APP to help in provincial identity, and the locating the nearing RCMP opportunity to seek provincial detachment in Alberta when funding to cover initiatives, there is a need to report a such as crime prevention, with suspicious person or a person updates in Crime Prevention in distress. More information can be found by visiting www. ruralcrimewatch.ab.ca. 4 March 20, 2020 - County News SAFETY FIRST Fire Permit Season Begins March 1: Have you got yours? Lacombe County reminds ratepayers that fire permit season starts on March 1, 2020. In recent years, spring brought drier conditions very quickly, resulting in fire bans. As the County prepares for the 2020 fire permit season, they remind residents that it’s important to practice safe burning practices throughout the year. “Residents are encouraged to check on any controlled burns performed outside of permit season, as larger burns can smoulder through the winter and reignite as it warms up,” said Drayton Bussiere, Lacombe County Fire Chief. “By obeying with the fire permit process and using safe burning practices, Lacombe County residents can help us keep our County safe throughout the season.” Burning without a fire permit can result in a hefty fine. In 2017, permit season was moved up a month – starting March 1 rather than April 1 – in response to changing en- vironmental conditions, including drier spring conditions. Under Lacombe County’s Fire Protection Policy, anyone found burning without a permit will be required to pay for the fire department response fees. A flat rate of $300 will be charged for responses to a fire when a person is in contravention of the Forest and Prairie Protection Act for failure to have a fire permit or any other provision of the Act and fire suppression is not required. “It’s about public safety and burning responsibly,” said Bussiere. “Fire permits are free of charge and easy to obtain, yet we continue to have situations where people don’t take out a permit and can be charged under the bylaw. The intent here is not to generate revenue, but to ensure the safety of all Lacombe County residents and their neighbours.” The past several years have seen many producers brush lands and burn the brush during the winter months. It is very important to remember to check these piles as they can smolder for many months, and can be rekindled by wind. Combine this with dry spring conditions and the resulting fires can be disastrous. Fires that are started by rekindled brush piles are your responsibility and you can also be charged for the fire response. Should a Fire Department respond to a fire for which a permit has not been issued, or if a permit has been issued and the permit holder contravenes any of the conditions of the permit, the property owner will be as- sessed costs at the following rates: • fire truck - $500 per hour • water truck - $300 per hour • rapid response unit/mini pumper - $300 per hour • equipment van - $300 per hour • equipment other than fire apparatus – Lacombe County cost • personnel other than fire department members - La- combe County cost Beginning on March 1, 2020, online fire permits can be submitted from the Lacombe County website homepage (www.lacombecounty.com), and through the “my Lacombe County” app (iPhone users). People are also able to re- quest permits in person at the Lacombe County Office, or by calling 403-782-8959. 5 CountyCounty News News - - AugustMarch 20, 18, 2020 2017 MIRROR CORNER We love local businesses! We are looking for Mirror businesses to feature in the Mirror Corner.

If you operate a business in the Mirror area and want to be profiled in County News, please email communications@ lacombecounty.com with a write-up and photos of your business.

We'd love to hear from you! Development Incentive Grant available for Hamlet of Mirror Did you know: Lacombe County has a Development Incentive Pro- gram (DIG) aimed at encouraging entrepreneurs to locate their busi- nesses in the Hamlet of Mirror.

How does it work? The program offers a grant based on a percentage of the property 2020 Mirror Dog Tags connect to the world at Mirror A license is required for all dogs in Public Library. taxes. Eligible commercial or industrial businesses can qualify for a rebate of up to 100% of the municipal portion of their property taxes Mirror. As of February 1, 2020, the Mirror Royal Canadian Legion cost is $30 for an altered dog, and for a period of 10 years (decreasing by 10% each year for 10 years). Branch 189 - 5015 50th Avenue $50 for an unaltered dog. For more Ready to take a vacation from municipal property taxes? information please call (403) 782- Meat Draws Saturday at 4 p.m. 6601 or visit www.lacombecounty. General meetings second Sunday com (County Services >Hamlet at 1 p.m. (unless otherwise posted). Interested?? Contact the Planning and of Mirror>Policies/Bylaws>Dog Mirror Skate Park Development Department today at 403-782-8389! Control). Located across the street by the Friends of the Mirror Library community hall. Meetings occur the Society second Tuesday of month. The library is open Wednesdays 1 Mirror and District Museum p.m. - 7 p.m. If you are interested in Meetings are on the first Monday of the library, we invite you to join our the month at 7 p.m. Call 403-788- Mirror Library Board. Your interest 3828 for more information. and input are welcomed! For Rent Jolly Seniors Large room in Mirror Business Pancake breakfast every second Centre, for rent by month or day. Sunday from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Contact Jim Sturgeon 403-788- Booking Mirror Community Hall 2380 or Tasha Conway ATB 403- 788-3001 Call Lisa 403-788-3890 or cell 403- 505-3894. CN Rail crossing delays Mirror Library If you experience delays longer than 20 minutes at the Mirror Join us Wednesdays from 1 p.m. to rail yard crossing, call CN Rail 7 p.m. Check out our new selection at 1-800-465-9239. Follow the of books and movies, or access prompts and be ready to provide high-speed Wi-Fi Internet. Thanks details shown on the crossing to Lacombe County, you can now signal mast to CN personnel. Transport Canada may be reached 6 at 1-888-463-0521. March 20, 2020 - County News OPERATIONS Spring is coming: are you prepared for flooding? With warmer temperatures and snow The Operations Department will be also be used to keep residents up to melting we can expect the usual spring responsible for coordinating and date. runoff issues. Frozen culverts can prioritizing action based on the need create problems with the natural flow and severity of the situation. Please Lacombe County staff is very of water and we have crews trained note that Lacombe County crews do experienced in dealing with drainage and dedicated to look after these NOT go onto private property to clean issues but in extreme events, staff issues. out or steam the culverts. will have to prioritize the areas of concern. Lacombe County has developed In spring our crews are diligently a Flood Mitigation Plan in order to checking roads dealing with the Localized flooding is the situation quickly and effectively deal with issues. In extreme weather events that is most common in Lacombe flooding and flood related issues. The bridges and major culverts may also County but these are usually short plan addresses immediate, medium be threatened. term with minor traffic disruptions. and long term processes in order to properly and safely manage a flood The steamer truck is used for opening Major flooding is more prevalent on event. up frozen culverts. This piece of the Blindman River and the Medicine equipment is especially important in River and the bridges south of We ask that our residents be cautious the case of a slow melt where the Bentley are the most prone to and avoid venturing in unsafe areas temperatures drop at night causing the possible damage. The bridges in the where there may be washouts or other culverts to be blocked with ice. northwest area of the County, which spring runoff. First and foremost is the mostly are standard bridges, also safety of the public and staff. Watch Lacombe County monitors water may be threatened. Implementing for hazards when approaching flooded levels and weather conditions due detour routes for road and bridge areas and washouts! Ensure the road to the annual spring runoff. We have repairs will cause inconvenience but is stable. staff dedicated to checking roads should not isolate any residents. and directing employees on when Residents are advised to call the and where steaming, road repairs, Even though we can predict many County office or County shop to or barricades and warning signs are of the problem areas, it is important ensure that drainage issues are required. to recognize that it could be County properly recorded. We will ask you wide and other areas may have to give basic information to the Media releases will be used to keep problems. One frozen culvert or Operations Department about the local residents informed of road beaver dam may create situations flooding of a road or a plugged or closures and dangerous areas. that require attention but we will frozen culvert. This information will work diligently to address all the assist the staff in dealing with the In extreme conditions daily updates issues as quickly as possible. requests. on the Lacombe County website will

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7 CountyCounty News News - - AugustMarch 20, 18, 2020 2017 What is Sanitary Sewer FOG? What Is FOG? FOG stands for Fats, Oils and Grease. Fats, oils and grease are natural by-products of cooking and food preparation process. Common sources of FOG include meat fats, cooking oils, sauces, dairy products, marinades, food scraps, dressings, baked goods, lard, butter, shortening and margarine. Should FOG go down Flushable Wipes? the sink or toilet? Did you know that wipe products claiming to be No. Fats, oils and grease “flushable” aren’t Cavitation damaged impellor may seem harmless as telling consumers from liftstation pump it flows easily down the the whole story? drain. However, as it Actually, wipe cools, FOG solidifies and products flushed sticks to sides of sewer plug service lines, Responsible Tree piping, eventually causing damage municipal Planting restrictions, backups or liftstation pumps Small trees <20 ft. tall should be planted no closer overflows. and increase sewer than 10 ft. from your sewer service. Larger varieties maintenance costs. like Poplars can easily grow 80 ft. tall and send their Does FOG affect sewer rates? The only paper that should ever be flushed is toilet roots down that far as well. Roots that deep are Yes. Sewer utility costs are paper. looking for a constant high nutrient water supply, the recovered or “paid for” by the same as what’s in your sanitary sewer service! town, hamlet or subdivision using that specific utility. Only one hair-like root is needed to enter your sewer Increased emergency CCTV Severe wipe blockages line. It knots back and forth creating a “beavertail” camera inspections, jetting may lead to service line looking root ball, drawing up nutrients from the and pump outs due to plugged replacement wastewater. This causes sewer back-ups by catching main lines directly reflect utility toilet paper traveling down the pipe. If the root billing. ball becomes brittle and breaks free, the cost to Can Water Damage Steel? homeowners can be significant. How can I protect my property? Yes. When a pump intake becomes plugged or It’s recommended by licensed professionals that you partially obstructed by FOG, wipes or unflushables, have your sanitary sewer line CCTV inspected and this restriction causes pump “cavitation”. Simply hydro-jetted every 3 years (generally speaking). A stated, cavitation is the formation of air bubbles heavily treed yard or aged plumbing may need more around a pump’s impellor when flow is restricted. maintenance. It’s best to consult with a licensed These air bubbles generate heat and shockwaves professional. when they collapse resulting in impellor damage.

2020 Tax Installment Tax Installment Payment Plan (TIPP) The Tax Installment PAYMENT PLAN Payment Plan (TIPP) is a simple, secure and convenient way to pay your Sign up TODAY annual property taxes. When you sign up, monthly for the monthly plan. Automatic payments are automatically Budget-friendly withdrawn from your bank account on the 15th of Contact Lacombe County at (403) 782-6601 or Simple each month. To obtain an visit www.lacombecounty.com for more details. Convenient application form, contact Lacombe County at (403) 782-6601 or visit www. lacombecounty.com.

8 March 20, 2020 - County News ENVIRONMENT

Together, we can keep the lake healthy by removing or reporting abandoned ice fishing huts. Remember to remove your debris, take your waste and LEAVE NO TRACE to help protect fish & wildlife habitats. TAKE IT OFF! Register your ice hut at: (Sylvan Lake) www.sylvanlake.ca/take-it-off (Gull Lake & Buffalo Lake) www.lacombecounty.com/take-it-off

For environmental complaints, please call TAKE IT OFF! Alberta Environment & Parks Remove allRemove ice fishing Icehuts Fishingby March 31Huts • Respect the Lake • TakeHotline: your 1.800.222.6514 Garbage Leave NO Trace ALL YEAR!

Abandoning an ice fishing hut during the spring melt is NOT an option! Debris, including wood, gasoline, furniture, plastic and metal, ends up settling to the bottom of the lake or floating to the surface after the ice has left. This contamination is detrimental to fish and waterfowl habitats, and is a safety hazard for other users of the lake. No matter the season LEAVE NO TRACE!

As part of our TAKE IT OFF program, Lacombe County and its partners are asking you to register your ice hut. Registration allows for increased protection of yourFor environmental complaints, please call TAKEproperty and our lake.IT OFF! Alberta Environment & Parks Remove all ice fishing huts by March 31 Hotline: 1.800.222.6514

Abandoning an ice fishing hut during the spring melt is NOT an option! Debris, includingDon’t wood, gasoline, get furniture, left plastic in and metal,the ends dust! up settling to the bottom of the lake or floating to the surface after the ice has left. This Lacombe County is currently taking requests for our 2020 Dust Control contamination is detrimentalProgram. If toyou fish are interested and waterfowl in having Calcium habitats, Chloride and in is front a safety of your hazard for other users of theresidence lake. No or place matter of business, the please season contact IvyLEAVE at the County NO shopTRACE! at 403-782-3567. As part of our TAKE IT OFF program, Lacombe County and its partners are asking Ratepayer’s cost-shared rate for 2020 is $3.14 per lineal meter, to a you to register your icemaximum hut. Registration of 200 meters. allows If you require for increased more than 200protection metres, the of your property and our lake.additional will NOT be cost shared.

Please submit your application and make payment for dust control before the annual deadline of May 15th.

**Note: The application of dust abatement may cause some possible effects, such as loss of vegetation. Lacombe County is not responsible for any claims or damages resulting from the application process.**

If you are interested in finding out more about the County’s Dust Control Program, please call Ivy at 403-782-3567 or Shelley at 403-782-8379 9 CountyCounty News News - - AugustMarch 20, 18, 2020 2017 AGRICULTURE How to recycling twine in Lacombe County

Request for “No Spray” Areas

Lacombe County recognizes that some landowners/tenants are not in favor of having County-owned roadside ditches adjacent to their property treated with herbicides for weed control. To accommodate these landowner/tenants Lacombe County will, at the request of the landowner/tenants, allow the option of carrying out vegetation control on County right-of-way adjacent to their property subject to the following conditions: • Landowner/tenant will complete a ‘No Spray’ request form and submit it Details: to the County’s Agricultural Fieldman prior to April 30 of that year. The request is for a three-year term. Producers can pick up Clean Farms Twine Recycling Bags at the Lacombe County office and Lacombe Regional Waste Services • Landowner/tenant will control all Prohibited Noxious and Noxious weeds Commission Transfer Sites during regular business hours. Twine will as designed under the Weed Control Act before July 15 or as deemed only be accepted if it is placed in the Clean Farms Twine Recycling necessary by the Agricultural Fieldman for all years affected by the Bag, and then brought to the collection site. agreement. • The County will control, by all means necessary, all Prohibited Noxious or Requirements: Noxious weeds not controlled by July 15.

1. Shake – Remove as much debris, snow or ice as possible. • All agreements will be automatically terminated should the control of Excessively dirty twine may be rejected, or subject to a landfill Prohibited Noxious and Noxious weeds not be carried out as stated in tipping fee or additional charges at drop off. condition 2, and future agreements will be at the discretion of the Agricul- tural Fieldman. 2. Bag – Place loose twine in a Clean Farms Twine Recycling Bag and tie bags to close. Please do not knot the twine. Clean Farms • The County reserves the right to cancel any agreements and implement Twine Recycling bags are available free of charge at Lacombe any control deemed necessary at any time. County office or Lacombe Regional Waste Services Commission Transfer Sites. To Request a ‘No Spray’ Agreement or for further information, 3. Return – Return to a Lacombe Regional Waste Services please call 403-782-8959. Commission Transfer Site during regular business hours.

10 March 20, 2020 - County News AGRICULTURE 4th Annual Spring Tune Up Event

We have more than 100 people join us for THANK YOU!! the 4th Annual Spring Tune Up: Health and Safety fair on March 10. • Building Bridges to Health Naturally (blood analysis) • The Man Van • Canadian Blood Services (blood • County of Lacombe Lifelong typing) Learning Association • Lacombe & District Family and • Lacombe County Peace Officers Thank you to all attendees, as well as the Community Support Services (child car seat inspections) (FCSS) • Wolf Creek Primary Care Network organizations who partnered with us for • Just Safety Supplies • City of Lacombe (Healthy Living • Pure Red Deer (chiropractic, hands- program) this event! on screening • AgSafe Alberta (Alberta Farm Safe • Passion for Health (Alberta Health Plan) Services)

11 CountyCounty News News - - AugustMarch 20, 18, 2020 2017 AGRICULTURE Mountain Pine Beetles in Alberta: What you need to know WHAT IS THE MOUNTAIN phloem of the tree. The action About two weeks after eggs are their spread. PINE BEETLE? of blue-stain fungi and larval Adults laid, white grub-like larvae with The Dendroctonus ponderosae feeding can kill the tree within In mid-July to mid- August, brown heads hatch and mine • Keep your trees healthy Hopkins is a small bark beetle one month of the attack. adults bore exit holes through horizontal galleries in the inner • Remove, thin and diversify about 4.0-7.5 mm in length. the bark and fly to attack new bark. Here they overwinter, pro- pine stands Commonly known as the moun- WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF A trees. Female beetles attack tected from cold temperatures • Do NOT transport MPB- tain pine beetle (MPB), it is the MOUNTAIN PINE BEETLE? first and release an aggregation by the bark and resume feeding infested pine with bark most destructive pest of mature Pitch Tubs pheromone to initiate mass at- in the spring. attached pine forests in North America. Cream-coloured resin that looks tack and attract males. Females • Look into pheromone repel- like crystallized honey oozes tunnel through the outer bark Pupae lents (verbenone) When beetle populations are out of entry holes in the trunk. and construct vertical egg gal- By late June to early July, larvae small, they prefer stressed, ma- leries in the inner bark. Adults create oval shaped chambers If your trees are attacked, you ture or over-mature (80+ years) Boring Dust carry blue stain fungi in their at the end of the larval galleries need to take control action pine. As populations grow, any Collects in the bark crevices mouths, which spreads quickly and develop into adult beetles. prior to mid-June, when ma- pine over 12.5 centimetres in and around the base of trees through the tree tissues. ture beetles begin to emerge diameter can be killed - even from beetles boring under the WHAT CAN YOU DO? and fly to new sites. healthy trees. They are capable bark. Eggs Albertans living in areas with of attacking and killing all spe- In the galleries, females mate MPB can take steps to reduce Learn more at: cies of pine by clogging and MPB LIFECYCLE with males and lay approxi- the impact on their property. destroying the conductive tissue In Alberta, MPBs normally have mately 60 eggs individually While there is no certain pre- www.mpb.alberta.ca of the tree by introducing a a one-year lifecycle. In higher along the sides of the gallery. vention against MPB attacks, blue-stain fungi when attacking elevations, it may take two there are some protective the tree. Its larvae feed in the years to complete their lifecycle. Larvae actions you can take to prevent Intensive Wheat Management – Should I do it? Managing Variety selection; newer CWRS tiller per plant = 60 stems/sq. ft. top-dressing in Central Alberta are still wheat varieties like AAC Brandon and AAC Ideal seeding date; new data suggests unproven, but the production has Viewfield have better yield potential that when you start seeding wheat at improvement in wheat protein content come a long with improved disease packages a soil temp. of 2o C, you don’t suffer has been well documented way in the last whereas brand new varieties like any yield penalty and you maximize Plant growth regulators (PGR); with 10 years, and Jake and Parata are earlier maturing leaf area on June 20 (longest day the onset of higher nitrogen rates in so the answer to help manage maturity risk without of the year). Earlier seeding allows wheat, a number of CWRS varieties to the question a yield penalty. On the other hand, you to seed less seeds/ sq. ft. have a higher likelihood of lodging above is YES CPSR varieties like AAC Penhold and because plants tiller better in cooler which is where a PGR can really you should do AAC Crossfield rank near Grant McCormick temperatures helping meet your make a difference in standability it as long as it the top of that wheat class on disease stems/ sq. ft. target fits your farming and yield potential. Fusarium head blight (FHB) Ideal seeding depth: seeding into assessment; the risk of a yield and operation, Fertility plan; new research suggests your risk cooler soils dictates shallower seeding quality robbing FHB infection is that applying rates of actual nitrogen but always to moisture getting closer to reality in Central tolerance and in excess of 130 lbs per acre is a profitable Pest Management Alberta and needs to be assessed are showing a profitable yield -a well-executed proposition. pest management strategy helps keep season by season based on risk of and protein response. As yields go infection and underlying conditions “Intensive wheat management” is up, other nutrients like phosphorus, your yield potential intact really just looking at the many different like moisture levels and humidity potassium and sulfur are being Always use a seed treatment; seed management areas within your control removed from fields at much and soil borne diseases impact Preharvest and harvest management; on the farm and determining whether higher rates and need to be replaced. seedling vigor, survivability and making sure that the final stage of the changing any of those areas makes ultimately plant stand which impacts wheat crop is managed to maintain economic sense and how best to Setting expectations; setting your yield quality and grade implement those changes. plan and sticking to it throughout the growing season will give you a higher Know your weed spectrum: weeds Managing for improvement whether that There are four key pillars of wheat likelihood of achieving your goals. in general but especially hard to be better yield, higher protein, improved production that you can focus on. quality, increased return on investment Establishment-once you have the kill weeds and resistant weed Planning–a solid crop plan could be populations will rob yield if not dealt or being more profitable means a plan in place, the first and some say focused approach to implementing the difference between an average result most important job is getting the crop with in a focused approach and a bumper crop new strategies or fine-tuning existing established uniformly. Scout your fields; know potential strategies can help make wheat one of Yield and quality goals; CWRS Ideal seeding rate; yield is calculated pest problems (weeds, diseases and the most successful crops on your farm. varieties can achieve 100+ bushels by multiplying stems/sq. ft. by head insects) before they impact yield. per acre (BPA) and 13.5% protein size (#florets/hd.) by seed weight. Ideal timing of treatment is critical whereas CPSR varieties can achieve Ideal stand (60 stems/sq. ft. x 12-15 Crop Enhancement-these are all of Submitted by Grant McCormick 110+ BPA and 11.5% protein florets/head x 3-4 large seeds/floret). the in-season strategies that enhance Agronomist, Central Alberta Co-op (Lacombe) Seeding rate- target 36 seeds/ and protect yield potential Nitrogen top dressing; the economics of 12 sq. ft.= ~30 plant/sq. ft. with 1 March 20, 2020 - County News Road Ban Season is fast approaching The season when bans are placed on Lacombe to use their best judgement when it comes to road County roads to protect the infrastructure is fast use. Reporting any signs of road damage to Lacombe approaching. Road bans are required during spring County’s Operations Department can be beneficial so All commercial or industrial hauling within due to the ground thawing, therefore leaving county we can facilitate repairs as quickly as possible. Lacombe County requires a road use roads susceptible to damage. agreement. The necessary movement of grain has been Historically Lacombe County has placed very few recognized by County Council and we strive to PHONE toll-free ROADATA SERVICES for bans on the roads during the spring thaw and usually work with the agriculture community to facilitate the permits: limits them to paved roads that do not have the movement of grain through the road ban season. • SERVICE RIG PERMITS structural strength required to handle heavy loads. Grain hauling on banned roads will be considered, 1.888.830.7623 Road bans are just a mechanism to minimize damage provided a special permit has been applied for and • HEAVY HAUL/ALBERTA PROVINCIAL to roads and prevent costly repairs. authorized by Lacombe County. Other industries PERMITS can also be given special permission under certain 1.888.444.9288 Gravel roads are prone to damage in the spring, circumstances • DRILLING RIG/OUT OF PROVINCE (AB)/ summer, and fall, but repairs are much less WELL SERVICING PERMITS expensive. Lacombe County seldom places road bans 1. Special permits will be considered for loads being 1.888.730.3745 on gravel roads since it would really restrict industry, hauled under frost conditions and limited in time to but on occasion the damage can be extensive so road be completed by either 10:00 a.m. or 12:00 p.m. EMAIL: bans could be considered under extreme situations. depending on weather. General Information: [email protected] Lacombe County relies on ratepayers and industry Permit Related: [email protected] 2. Special permits to haul up to 90% may be considered for roads that are banned at 75%. Any other inquiries can be directed to Lacombe County Enforcement at 403.782.8959 3. Special permits to haul up to 100% may be considered for roads that are banned at 90% ratepayers to facilitate the flow of materials while keeping road maintenance costs down. 4. Special permits may be considered for 100% loads on banned roads but only to allow access to the Spring road ban season is just around the corner and nearest non-banned road. depending on weather the length of time that bans are in place can last from mid-March to mid-June. Road maintenance and rebuilding are very costly expenditures but can be minimized if road damage With your assistance Lacombe County will endeavor is recognized before major repairs are required. The to keep the inconvenience to all industries to a burden of these costs falls to County ratepayers minimum. For a complete listing of affected roads, through taxation. go to www.lacombecounty.com or contact Lacombe Lacombe County strives to work with industry and County at 403.782.8379.

13 CountyCounty News News - - AugustMarch 20, 18, 2020 2017 SUBDIVISION & DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITY

SUBDIVISION & DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITY Do you have February 1, 2020 to February 29, 2020

Development Applications Received questions

about o. ile o. pplicant Legal escription roposed evelopment ecision Landowner (otherwise pending) subdivision or Single Family Residence Meadowood Homes Ltd. 1 07/20 Pt. SW 32-39-26-W4M w/Attached Garage Approved (Ted & Sandra Deer) development (Second Dwelling)

Sorento Custom Homes Lot 1 Block1 Plan 942 0267 Single Family Residence activity? 2 08/20 Approved (Dale Thompson) (Pt. SW 24-41-22-W4M) (Replacement Dwelling)

Ervin Oberst Lot A Plan 832 1790 Home Based Business, Major 3 09/20 & Pamela Williamson (Burbank Industrial) (Renewal, Autobody Shop)

Home Based Business, Minor Pt. Lot 2 Plan 3232TR 4 10/20 James & Anita Dodd (Renewal, Lacombe Septic Approved (Milton Subdivision Area) Service)

Heavy Equipment Service & K & K Trailer Sales Lot 10 Block 1 Plan 142 3957 5 11/20 Repair Approved (1840224 Alberta Ltd.) (Iron Rail Business Park) Contact Us: (K & K Trailer Sales)

Lacombe County Lot 3 Block 1 Plan 092 7629 Single Family Residence 6 12/20 Bryan Snow Planning Services (Pt. NW 8-41-1-W5M) (Replacement Dwelling) (403) 782-8389 Subdivision Applications Received planning@ ile pplicant o. Legal escription roposed ubdivision ecision o. Landowner lacombecounty.com (otherwise pending)

Dale Freitag 7 S-004-20 Don & Marrilee Stephenson SE 1-40-3-W5M 1st Parcel Out Director of Bemoco Land Surveying Ltd. Planning Services 8 S-005-20 (Kelly Johnson, Lorna Prediger NE 22-41-27-W4M 1st Parcel Out & Darren Johnson)

Cajun Paradis 9 S-006-20 Peter & Anne Sisson NE 26-39-26-W4M 1st Parcel Out Senior Planner

Peter Duke Planner / Development MAP OFFor ACTIVITYmore information contact the County’s Planning Services Department at 403-782-8389

Officer

Dale Freitag Cajun Paradis Florian Goetz Director of Planning Services Senior Planner Jr. Planner /

Development Officer Peter Duke Florian Goetz Planner/Development Officer Jr. Planner/Development Officer Allison Noonan Charmaine Tootell Allison Noonan Planning Services Planning Services Receptionist Planning Services Administrative Assistant Administrative Assistant

Charmaine Tootell Planning Services

Receptionist AD 14 March 20, 2020 - County News Sandy Beach Resort Outdoor Skating Rink explore Location: West side of Gull Lake GPS: N 52° 30.294 W 114° 00.165 & play

Details: Maintained by Lacombe County and the Sandy Point Resort community, this outdoor rink has a large skating surface and is situated on the public use area of the beach.

Lace up your skates and check it out!

Lacombe County is home to a number of parks, trails and public spaces for everyone to enjoy. For a full list and map of Lacombe County parks & trails locations, please visit https://www. lacombecounty.com/index.php/parks-and-trails. If you encounter any issues with our parks, please contact us at 403-782-8379, or report it through the myLacombeCounty app.

Fight fraud this March! The Competition Bureau launches the annual Fraud Prevention Month campaign The campaign aims to help Canadians stand up to scammers who are costing them millions of dollars every year During the month of March, the Competi- Canadians lost over $98 million to fraud. edge scams. Fraud awareness remains vital the way Canadians work, live and interact. tion Bureau and its nation-wide partners will Scammers can target anyone. Every so that Canadians can navigate the digital Being connected also means that our expo- help Canadians recognize, reject and report demographic is at risk of fraud, from young world with confidence. sure to fraud has grown exponentially. No fraud. teens to the elderly, from consumers to big one is immune to fraud, so everyone should corporations. As the digital economy plays For the sixteenth edition of this nationwide learn to protect themselves, and know that In 2019 alone, recent statistics from the an increasingly important role in the lives of awareness campaign, the Competition reporting can help prevent more harm," said Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, show that Canadians, it is also making for more cutting Bureau will share tips on how to spot and Josephine Palumbo, Deputy Commissioner stand protected against widespread scams of the Deceptive Marketing Practices Direc- impacting Canadians. In keeping with its torate, Competition Bureau of Canada focus on the digital economy, the Bureau will also tackle digitally-enabled fraud. Cam- Quick facts paign efforts will be set out on social media The Competition Bureau initiated the Fraud and at community events in Canada. Prevention Month campaign in 2004, with the support of the Fraud Prevention Forum. The Bureau is also working with key part- ners, like the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, The Fraud Prevention Forum is chaired the RCMP, and other police services across by the Competition Bureau, and currently Canada, to encourage victims of fraud consists of a group of 60 Canadian organi- to file reports. The Canadian Anti-Fraud zations, ranging from consumer and volun- Centre estimates that Canadians have only teer groups, government agencies, police reported approximately 5% of fraud cases to services and enforcement organizations to the authorities. This means that the actual private companies. impact of fraud is probably even more important than figures suggest.

“The digital economy is changing 15 CountyCounty News News - - AugustMarch 20, 18, 2020 2017 Ellis Bird Farm: March update the nesting habits of our resident second year. Our full 2020 events spring arrival time of the Mountain owls, Ellie and Albert. Every calendar is available for viewing on Bluebirds. Thanks to the record- spring, we watch the webcam in our website and we have a full and keeping efforts of the Ellises and the The snow is still knee-deep in hope, anticipating that the pair will exciting slate of activities to share EBF biologists, we can demonstrate places at Ellis Bird Farm and this successfully raise another brood of with you! that the spring return date of the week the wind has been blowing owlets. Happily, as of March 10, our Mountain Bluebirds to Central webcam shows that Ellie is sitting In early March, Myrna Pearman Alberta has advanced 19 days over hard from the Northwest. However, gave a talk at the Lacombe Lake spring is on its way. We're watching on three eggs with Albert helping 58 years. The full paper is available out his mate by bringing her food. Watershed Society Annual General to read on our website at www. for the sight of the first returning Meeting held on March 5th. Those Mountain Bluebirds and would love You can access our webcam from ellisbirdfarm.ca our website at www.ellisbirdfarm.ca. who attended were treated to a to hear if you spot one before we beautiful photo presentation on Until next month, watch for those do! Down below the owls' nest, our the variety of wildlife present on arriving Mountain Bluebirds, and Aside from the gradually-increasing summer 2020 plans are coming Lacombe Lake. join us as we eagerly await the daylight and warming temperatures, together. Our summer staffing is hatching of Ellie and Albert's three mostly in place. Last year's café Finally, Ellis Bird Farm is a co- eggs and the coming of spring. one sure way that we at Ellis Bird author of a scientific research Farm know that spring is coming is operators, Little Bit of Thyme out of Blackfalds, will be returning for their paper detailing the changes to

16 March 20, 2020 - County News

Community Events Featured Fun & Events Bites & Bevvies Hosted by the Rotary Club of Lacombe Daybreak, March 20th, 711pm at the EAL Confidence Building Program for Kids and Teens, Hosted by Insight LMC. Entertainment by Randi Boulton! Tickets Through Horses, at Flying Cross Ranch this 6 week program is specifically at the door $45. designed for kids and teens dealing with low self esteem, bullying issues and Blackfalds Market is hosting their Spring Market lack of confidence. There is something magical about these large yet gentle on Saturday, March 28 from 10 AM – 4 PM at the Blackfalds Abbey Centre. Admission is by animals...sign your child up and watch them experience the magic! Program donation in support of Alley Cats Rescue. runs Saturdays, April 4 May 9 from Ages 10 to 15 years old. Please message Raise the Rink Volunteer Information Night Karen Lutz at Insight Through Horses (www.insightthroughhorses.com) hosted by the Dual Ice Development Society. Cow Patti Theatre presents Lunenburg! Join them for some homegrown, Wednesday, March 25 from 7 PM – 8 PM at the Blackfalds Multiplex Nova Scotia hospitality in this fun production! Still lots of dates in March/April to get tickets and enjoy dinner or brunch! Located at the Lacombe Golf and Sunday, March 22 Xtreme Wild Rose Club hosts the first race to kick of the year. Starting at 9AM County Club. Tickets at www.cowpatti.com at Wild Rose Arena in Eckville. The Stillhouse Songwriters Sessions are set in an intimate listening room Sewing Class with Rachelle, Mar 22nd Looking to atmosphere and feature a lineup of local artists. Every Wednesday at the get into sewing? Rachelle Deeley will get you Track on 2 until April 1, $5 cover, $30 for buffet dinner (includes cover) started with an easy project complete with ALL materials and supplies needed. Even the sewing Doors 6:00 PM, Show 7:00 PM machine will be supplied! To register contact Get your tickets for the Gord Bamford #REDNEK Music Fest – Lacombe, June Rachelle 4038484992 limited spaces available. 20th, 2020, 8:00 PM, MEGlobal Athletic Park www.showpass.com/lacombe Bumblebee Box Building, April 6, Hosted by rednek/ Tickets starting at $45, Lacombe County. learn how YOU can help care for Alberta’s native bees. Lacombe County on Sale now! Funds raised to welcomes Megan Evans with the Alberta Native partially support the Lacombe Bee Council, to teach about native bumblebees. Athletic Park expansion project. Participants will make and take home their own bumblebee box, so bring your own drill. Call 4037828959 for more details or purchase your Due to COVID-19, many of these events may tickets on www.Eventbrite.ca Submit your events to the community event be cancelled or rescheduled. Make to to check calendar at lacombetourism.com Looking for tourism maps, information and the Lacombe Tourism website, or the event/ things to do in the region? organization website for current details Visit lacombetourism.com and follow Lacombe Regional Tourism on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! Partner Profile

Merry’s Mercantile Merry’s Mercantile, formerly known as Past Connections Emporium has been unique store in Bentley for over 9 years. New owner Merry Kuchle, originally from Alabama, moved to the area 2 years ago from Calgary. It wasn’t long before her love for the store inspired the purchase that took place in August 2019. Merry is a self proclaimed social media geek, and an avid blogger, blogging Merry About Town since 2006. Seeing an opportunity to get more involved in her community Merry stepped into the Chair position for the Lacombe Regional Tourism Board of Directors and looks forward to participating in the future growth of the community.

17 CountyCounty News News - - AugustMarch 20, 18, 2020 2017 COUNCIL HIGHLIGHTS February 13, 2020 BUFFALO LAKE SOUTH SHORE surrounding Sylvan Lake. The partnering are in the process of undertaking a review of the INTERMUNICIPAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN (IDP) municipalities, including Lacombe County, Red Deer Lacombe Fire Service (LFS). As the work meets the By resolution of Council, the County Manager was County, Town of Sylvan Lake, Summer Village of criteria for the Alberta Community Partnership (ACP) directed to provide a written response to the County of Birchcliff, Summer Village of Halfmoon Bay, Summer Program, the City is preparing an application. Council Stettler No. 6 indicating that Lacombe County is not a Village of Jarvis Bay, Summer Village of Norglenwold, approved a resolution that Lacombe County support member municipality of the Buffalo Lake South Shore and the Summer Village of Sunbreaker Cove, have the City of Lacombe’s funding application to the Intermunicipal Development Plan (BLSSIDP), and is been working on the IDP since 2017. The final draft of Alberta Community Partnership Grant Program for the only providing comments in the context of ensuring Sylvan Lake IDP has now been completed. completion of the Lacombe Fire Service review. consistency with the Buffalo Lake Intermunicipal Development Plan (BLIDP). As the proposed Bylaw No. 1319/20, a bylaw of Lacombe County to SUPPLEMENTARY ASSESSMENT ROLLS amendments to the BLSSIDP appear to be consistent adopt the Sylvan Lake Intermunicipal Development Council was advised that a supplementary with the BLIPD, Lacombe County has no objections to Plan, was given first reading by Council. A special assessment roll for the County was prepared in 2017. the proposed amendments. meeting to conduct a public hearing (scheduled In 2018 and 2019, no supplementary assessment from March 28, 2020) has been postponed due to was prepared as development in both industrial and BYLAW NOS. 1317/20 & 1318/20 REVIEW COVID-19 precautions. residential properties was slow, and potential gains OF LACOMBE COUNTY MUNICIPAL would not support the time and cost of developing DEVELOPMENT PLAN AND LAND USE BYLAWS BYLAW NO. 1321/20 – BORROWING BYLAW the roll. The 2020 interim budget provides for no A presentation regarding the review of the County’s Bylaw No. 1321/20, a bylaw of Lacombe County supplementary assessment in 2020. The report on Municipal Development Plan (MPD) and Land Use to authorize borrowing for financing operating supplementary assessment rolls was received for Bylaw was received for information. Bylaw No. expenditures, was read a first, second and third time information by Council. 1317/20 proposes a number of amendments to and so passed by Council. the County’s Municipal Development Plan (MPD) SUMMER VILLAGE OF SUNBREAKER COVE and Bylaw No. 1318/20 proposes a number of BYLAW NO. 1322/20 – RATES AND FEES BYLAW FIRE SERVICE AGREEMENT amendments to the Land Use Bylaw (LUB). Bylaw No. 1322/20, a bylaw of Lacombe County The Fire Services Agreement between Lacombe to authorize the establishment of fees for various County, the Town of Bentley and Summer Village of By resolution of Council, the County Manager was services, supplies, information, applications and Sunbreaker Cove received Council approval. directed to prepare a report respecting the review appeals provided to the public was read a first, of the Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw (LUB) with second and third time and so passed by Council. SUMMER VILLAGES OF BIRCHCLIFF, HALF regard to adding setback requirements for cannabis MOON BAY, SUNBREAKER COVE AND RED facilities; and further, that that report be presented at WESTSIDE COUNTRY ESTATES – AUTOMATIC DEER COUNTY ICF AGREEMENTS the March 12, 2020 Council meeting. GATE PILOT PROGRAM Council approved Intermunicipal Collaboration On January 11, 2018, Council authorized the County Frameworks (ICFs) between Lacombe County and BYLAW NO. 1319/20 SYLVAN LAKE Manager to develop guidelines and enter into an the Summer Village of Birchcliff, Lacombe County INTERMUNICIPAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN agreement with the Westside Country Estates Co-op and the Summer Village of Half Moon Bay, Lacombe Currently, there is no regional Intermunicipal for a two-year pilot project to allow for the gating of County and the Summer Village of Sunbreaker Cove Development Plan (IDP) between the municipalities the community. and Lacombe County and Red Deer County.

Monitoring of the effectiveness of the gate and NOVA ANNUAL VISIT emergency services reported no issues and Council will participate in the annual NOVA Joffre site discussion with the Co-op determined that after the visit on June 1, 2020. Regularly Scheduled installation of the gate, property theft and trespass issues were significantly reduced. Council directed PRESENTATION FROM M.P. BLAINE CALKINS Meetings for Lacombe the County Manager to develop a policy to provide for Mr. Blaine Calkins, Member of Parliament for the County Council / the installation and operations of gates at entrances to Red Deer-Lacombe Constituency, met with Council residential subdivisions in Lacombe County. to discuss a number of topics, including rural crime, Council Committee infrastructure grant funding, federal gas tax funding, LACOMBE FIRE SERVICES REVIEW – ALBERTA status of Bill C-48 and C-69, carbon tax revenue Committee of the Whole COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP GRANT PROGRAM allocation and federal equalization payments. Currently, the City of Lacombe and Lacombe County First Tuesday of every second month at 9 a.m. Council & MPC Council Highlights & Minutes can be found on our website under Second and fourth Thursday of the ‘Council’ Link on the main page - or scan the QR code (left) every month, starting at 9 a.m.. with your smartphone!

The public and media are welcome to attend all Council & Maintenance contractor for highways in MPC meetings. An agenda will be posted to the website prior to the Lacombe County meeting. Please note: Alberta Transportation maintains and operates ALL NUMBERED highways in the County (i.e.. Hwy 12, Hwy 20, Hwy 597, Hwy 815, Hwy 601, Hwy 2A, etc.). If you see any issues or have any concerns on these roadways, please contact:

18 Mainroad Alberta Contracting LP | 1-877-875-3263 March 20, 2020 - County News COUNCIL HIGHLIGHTS February 27, 2020 POLICY RC(9) COUNTY SUPPORT OF COMMUNITY EVENTS PROGRAMS regarding pecuniary interest; and further, this report be presented at a future & ACTIVITIES Council meeting. Council approved the following 2020 RC(9) funding applications: COMMUNITY STANDARDS BYLAW - UNLAWFUL USE OF CANNABIS EDIBLES, EXTRACTS AND TOPICALS The discussion regarding the County’s Community Standards Bylaw and the unlawful use of cannabis edibles, extracts and topicals was received for information.

RCMP POLICING – FUTURE COST TO LACOMBE COUNTY The County Manager was directed to prepare a report with regard to the future costs to Lacombe County for RCMP policing; and further, that this report be presented at a future Council meeting.

LACOMBE COUNTY ELECTION, APPOINTMENTS AND WARDS (DIVISIONS) The report on a review of Lacombe County Election, Appointments and Wards (Divisions) was received for information.

SDAB/LARB/CARB – APPOINTMENT OF BOARDS The County Manager was directed to prepare a report regarding the process for the appointment of SDAB/LARB/CARB members; and further, that this report be presented at a future Council meeting.

CLIVE SEED CLEANING CO-OP - COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVES The discussion on the role and history of Council representatives on the Clive Seed Cleaning Co-op was received for information.

PONOKA RURAL CRIME WATCH/BURNT LAKE RURAL CRIME WATCH, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BOARDS, CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE AND THE ALIX ARENA/AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY RECREATIONAL FACILITY COMMITTEE The discussion with regard to Council representation on the Ponoka Rural Crime Watch/Burnt Lake Rural Crime Watch, Economic Development Boards, Chambers of Commerce and the Alix Arena/Agricultural Society Recreational Facility Committee was received for information.

TOWN OF ECKVILLE RC(1) APPLICATION – ICE PLANT REPLACEMENT CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT FOR THE COUNTY’S BUDGETING PROCESS A motion that Lacombe County commit to funding of 17% of the cost of the Eckville The County Manager was directed to prepare a report regarding citizen Arena Ice Plant Replacement to a maximum of $106,833. This contribution be engagement for the County’s budgeting process; and further, that this report be funded from the County’s Recreation Capital Assistance Program received the presented at a future Council meeting. approval of Council. POLICY OP(16) ROAD MAINTENANCE TOWN OF BLACKFALDS RC(1) APPLICATION – MULTI-PLEX EXPANSION An overview of Policy OP(16) Road Maintenance was received for information. PROJECT Council approved a motion that Lacombe County provide funding in an amount RATEPAYERS’ MEETING equivalent to the County’s 2019 library membership of 13.32% or $666,000 for the A report was provided by Mrs. Kreil on a ratepayers meeting held at the Bentley Town of Blackfalds Library Project. Ag Centre in Bentley on February 26, 2020. Mrs. Kreil was provided with the Council also approved a motion that Lacombe County provide funding for the Town presentation from that meeting, to be made available to Council. The following of Blackfalds Arena Expansion Project at a maximum amount of $1,725,000 or resolutions received the approval of Council: 11.5% of the total project cost. That the County Manager be directed to invite the organizers of the February 26, CITY OF LACOMBE/LACOMBE COUNTY ICF AGREEMENT 2020 ratepayers meeting to attend a future Council meeting as a delegation. Council approved the Intermunicipal Collaboration Framework (ICF) between Lacombe County and the City of Lacombe. That the report on the ratepayers meeting held at the Bentley Ag Centre in Bentley on February 26, 2020 and the information provided to Councillor Kreil at that COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE meeting be received for information. In addition to receiving the notes of the February 4, 2020 Committee of the Whole meeting for information, Council also reviewed the following items from that MUNICIPAL PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING meeting: The County Manager was directed to prepare a discussion paper with regard to Municipal Planning Commission meetings being held once a month and separately SOLAR ECONOMICS from County Council meetings. The County Manager was directed to prepare a discussion paper and recommendations regarding Solar Economics; and further, this report be The County Manager was directed to prepare a discussion paper with regard to presented at a future Council meeting. the composition of the Municipal Planning Commission.

COUNCILLOR CODE OF CONDUCT BYLAW The County Manager was directed to prepare a report on the Councillor Code of Conduct Bylaw with respect to Councillors paying for second legal opinions 19 CountyCounty News News - - AugustMarch 20, 18, 2020 2017 First phase of Red Deer hospital expansion announced The Government of Alberta announces expansion of health care services at the by the Government of Alberta responds Premier Kenney and Minister Shan- a major $100 million first phase expan- facility. to this longstanding infrastructure need dro in hearing the concerns of central sion of the Red Deer Hospital. of our community. The lives, health and Albertans and taking decisive action to “Past governments wasted years on well-being of our loved ones matter improve access to much-needed health This capital funding is in addition to the half-measures and planning that we are most of all, and this vital investment services in our community.” $20.6 billion annual budget for health completing now. This initial $100-million and expansion will help ensure access services, the highest ever in the prov- commitment is our promise to Red Deer to care and improved health outcomes Jason Stephan, MLA for Red Deer- ince and the highest per capita of all that we will get this done right, and as that the people of Red Deer and central South provinces. soon as possible.” Alberta critically need.” Quick facts “For years, residents of central Alberta Tyler Shandro, Minister of Health Tara Veer, mayor, City of Red Deer and Red Deer have been calling for • The Red Deer Regional Hospital their hospital to be expanded. Our gov- “Designing, planning and building “This is excellent news for Red Deer Centre provides a full spectrum ernment is the first to listen. I’m proud health infrastructure provides good and all of central Alberta. The Red Deer of acute care, including advanced to announce funding will be made avail- jobs for Albertans. We are committed to community has long advocated for im- surgery, internal medicine and able as part of Budget 2020 for the first getting the front-end work of this project provements to the Red Deer Regional diagnostics, as well as obstetrics, phase of the Red Deer hospital expan- right so that the people of Red Deer Hospital Centre, and this initial funding pediatrics, oncology, critical care sion.” and surrounding areas have a hospital commitment clearly demonstrates our and emergency care. that meets their needs.” government’s willingness to listen to, • Approximately 50 per cent of Jason Kenney, Premier Prasad Panda, Minister of Infrastruc- and act upon, the concerns of Albertans patients seen at the hospital are The Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre ture from all across the province.” referred from outside Red Deer. is the busiest hospital outside Edmon- Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Edu- ton and Calgary and has operated “The Red Deer Regional Hospital Cen- • The population of the Red Deer cation and MLA for Red Deer-North beyond its design capacity for many tre is one of the busiest hospitals in Al- area is expected to increase by 24 years. berta and is the primary health-service “This is great news for central Alber- per cent to 358,000 by 2035. provider for our citizens, the regional tans! Thank you to the leadership of The funding will expedite work to population, and every Albertan finalize the project scope, construc- travelling along the central QEII tion schedule, operating budget, and corridor. Today’s announcement

Do you have an after hours MY LACOMBE COUNTY APP service concern? Or don't have If you have an iPhone, time to make a phone call? make sure to download the myLacombeCounty app from Lacombe County has several the Apple Store. Not only can ways for residents to make non- you submit service requests emergency service requests. from your mobile device, but you can also request fire ONLINE permits, see the latest news Go to www.lacombecounty. in Lacombe County, and find com, and click on the Submit contact information (to name a Service Request image to fill out few). a simple form

For employment opportunities, visit our website at: www.lacombecounty.com (Select ‘Employment Opportunities’ on the ‘Quick Links’ menu on the left.)

20 March 20, 2020 - County News Area contractors who may be interested in plowing laneways in the County (Also see TELUS Yellow Pages “Excavating”) When to call ECKVILLE

Bentley Plumbing & Trenching Ltd (Harold) ....403.748.2424 Moore’s Backhoe Service (Ross) ...... 403.588.7705 Eagle Lake Transport (Allan) ...... 403.302.7527 Rocky Mountain Design and Landscaping ...... 403.588.8401 Kat Scott Enterprises Ltd. (Scott) ...... 403.896.1009 Skocdopole Construction Ltd...... 403.746.5744 911?

BENTLEY Complaints vs.

Bentley Plumbing and Trenching Ltd (Harold).403.748.2424 Link Ventures ...... 403.885.4555 C. Edmunds Contracting (Calvin) ...... 780.914.8450 Moore’s Backhoe Service (Ross) ...... 403.588.7705 emergencies Conasph (Chantel)...... 403.341.6900 Ground Control Excavation & Design...... 403.588.3611 We often get asked, "When should Dennis Duncan ...... 403.748.2413 Rocky Mountain Design and Landscaping...... 403.588.8401 we call 911?" 911 is for police, fire, Fred Brink ...... 403.391.0921 Throwdown Weld & Skidsteer Service (Eric)... 403.877.5841 or medical emergencies when im- Kat Scott Enterprises Ltd. (Scott) ...... 403.896.1009 Worms Trucking (Scott Garries)...... 403.304.9460 mediate action is required: some- one’s health, safety or property is in imminent jeopardy, or a crime is in BLACKFALDS progress. 911 should be called for: Any life-threatening emergency, any Conasph (Chantel)...... 403.341.6900 Rocky Mountain Design and Landscaping ..... 403.588.8401 crime in progress and for impaired Ground Werx Coatings(Jon) ...... 403.318.3006 Sherba Skidsteer Services (Justin) ...... 587.729.0299 drivers. Kat Scott Enterprises Ltd. (Scott) ...... 403.896.1009 Throwdown Weld & Skidsteer Service. (Eric).. 403.877.5841 Link Ventures...... 403.885.4555 Local police stations have com- Ground Control Excavation & Design ...... 403.588.3611 plaint lines that can be called if you require police assistance. This num- ber should be used for crimes that LACOMBE have occurred in the past, noise complaints and minor incidents. Bentley Plumbing and Trenching (Harold)...... 403.748.2424 Link Ventures ...... 403.885.4555 Black Wolf Excavating ...... 403.782.8722 Moore’s Backhoe Service (Ross) ...... 403.588.7705 For general inquiries and com- Bob Dick Trucking...... 403.350.6357 Paul’s Road Maintenance Ltd...... 403.742.9704 plaints during the day, please C. Edmunds Contracting (Calvin) ...... 780.914.8450 Ground Control Excavation & Design...... 403.588.3611 call: Conasph (Chantel)...... 403.341.6900 Rocky Mountain Design and Landscaping...... 403.588.8401 • Bashaw RCMP - (780) 372- Gord Douglas...... 403.782.6292 Sherba Skidsteer Services (Justin) ...... 587.729.0299 3593 Ground Werx Coatings (Jon) ...... 403.318.3006 Thompson Ditching ...... 403.782.5911 • Blackfalds RCMP - (403) 885- Drake Excavating (Jason)...... 403.304.3887 Throwdown Weld & Skidsteer Service. (Eric).. 403.877.5841 3333 Jackson Construction & Excavating ...... 403.782.4024 Worms Trucking (Scott Garries)...... 403.304.9460 • Sylvan Lake RCMP - (403) 887- Kat Scott Enterprises Ltd. (Scott) ...... 403.896.1009 3333 • Rimbey RCMP - (403) 843-2223 • Ponoka RCMP - (403) 783-4471 CLIVE • Lacombe Police - (403) 782- 3279

Applejack Service ...... 403.896.7544 Kat Scott Enterprises Ltd. (Scott) ...... 403.896.1009 If you accidentally call 911: A Scott Contracting (John)...... 403.747.2991 Link Ventures ...... 403.885.4555 Please stay on the line and advise Cat Scratch Ltd (Jason) ...... 780.291.0408 Paul’s Road Maintenance Ltd...... 403.742.6116 the operator it was an accident. If a Conasph (Chantel)...... 403.341.6900 Ground Control Excavation & Design...... 403.588.3611 911 hang-up is received the RCMP Ground Werx Coatings (Jon) ...... 403.318.3006 Wil Les Backhoe Services (Willy)...... 403.357.9626 John’s Grader Service ...... 403.784.3350 will follow-up by finding out who the number is registered to, and calling and sending police officers to your ALIX location to ensure you are okay. This process takes up a lot of time, so if you accidentally call 911, stay Applejack Service ...... 403.896.7544 Kat Scott Enterprises Ltd (Scott) ...... 403.896.1009 on the line, or answer the phone A Scott Contracting (John)...... 403.747.2991 Bill Russell Sand & Gravel (South of Alix)...... 403.747.2857 when they call back. You will not get Cat Scratch Ltd (Jason) ...... 780.291.0408 Paul’s Road Maintenance Ltd...... 403.742.9704 Conasph (Chantel)...... 403.341.6900 Wil Les Backhoe Services (Willy)...... 403.357.9626 in trouble. John’s Grader Service ...... 403.784.3350 Don't program 911 into your speed dial. It only takes a second to dial it and when it's pre-programmed, it's MIRROR easy to dial accidentally.

Applejack Service ...... 403.896.7544 Kat Scott Enterprises Ltd. (Scott)...... 403.896.1009 A Scott Contracting (John)...... 403.747.2991 Paul’s Road Maintenance Ltd...... 403.742.9704 Cat Scratch Ltd (Jason) ...... 780.291.0408 Wil Les Backhoe Services (Willy)...... 403.357.9626

If you wish to have your name added or removed from this list, please contact the Lacombe County Public Works/ Operations Department. If you wish to have your name added or removed from this list please contact: Phone: Lacombe403.782.8379 County or email Public [email protected] Works/Operations Department 21 Phone: 403.782.8379 or email [email protected]

Revised: March 2020 CountyCounty News News - - AugustMarch 20, 18, 2020 2017 AROUND THE COUNTY Uses for "MyLacombeCounty" Understanding the need to connect with ratepayers in a more mobile way, Lacombe County has developed its own service app called “my Lacombe County”.

The myLacombeCounty app was created in house, and allows people to obtain fire permits, create service requests, find contact information, and easily access County events, Council meetings and social media updates.

Using the app provides a more mobile way for people to engage with the County, and a new way for our customers to get the service they need, by allowing them to easily contact the County or make service requests straight from their mobile devices.

Currently, the app is only available to Apple device users, and can be downloaded from the Apple Store by searching "Lacombe County".

ALIX WAGON WHEEL MUSEUM PRESENTS

THE You’re Invited! einr – oi edi or ounit rou RESILIENT

Webinar Title: Social Media 101 for Community Groups GARDEN Date: Tuesday, March 24, 2020 An Evening Talk by Laverne Williams, Master Gardener Time: 10:00 AM- 11:30 AM Registration link: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_5qany5etT4yAfiAIzXNoDg

About the webinar: April 1 | 7 PM ner ert nd nd terdi entre invite you to attend our upcoming Alix Lion's Den webinar- oi edi or ounit rou. Located behind Servus Credit Union Whether you love it or hate it, there’s no question that social media is a powerful Everyone Welcome communications tool – a tool that can be harnessed by community groups to Refreshments will be served, "pay as you may" recruit volunteers, raise awareness of their programs, encourage participation, attract donors and much more. If you’re a synergy group, naturalist club or community stewardship organization (or you’re simply interested in learning more) - join us in this 90-minute webinar to learn from a variety of experts in social media management and glean tips and tricks and lessons learned in the world of social media.

22 March 20, 2020 - County News AROUND THE COUNTY Shadow Riders Club starts the year with a bang! The club has 33 members this year. We started the season by volunteering at the Mounted Shooting Games. Les- sons started in October and November with a camp that was wet but that didn’t stop us. And we are starting back up in March with lessons and a spring camp that hopefully the weather holds up. With the cold weather in December we didn't stop seeing each other, we had a Christ- mas party at Sylvan Lake with basketball and volleyball. Our public speaking was amazing with a whole bunch of members heading off to zones and districts. Also our members have been spending time with the Eckville Manor and playing bingo with the residents.

Club Reporter - Theodore Persson

A new chapter for the Parkland Re- gional Library After 60 years of serving Central Alberta braries in the 21st century. “Careful planning from their building at 5404 56th Avenue in and consideration for the present needs Lacombe, The Parkland Regional Library and potential growth of the region were (PRL) is pleased to announce that construc- implemented in the design and function of tion has begun on a new, two-storey head our new head office,” says Sheppard, “with office in the Iron Wolf Crossing subdivision flexibility to adapt to new technologies and in the south end of the City of Lacombe. service demands well into the future.” PRL Director Ronald Sheppard explains the The transition to the new building is expect- decision to build new was carefully evalu- ed by Fall 2020. Careful planning is under- ated over renovation and was deemed to way to ensure there is minimal disruption to be more cost effective. “Our current building services provided to member libraries. was constructed in 1960, and renovated in 1989. Due to our current operating require- Front & Side Elevation rendering supplied ments, it is not feasible to renovate the exist- by The Tricon Group – not final. ing facility to meet our present and future It is the belief of PRL that now, and in the needs.” future, libraries will continue to grow and Facilitated by the sale of the current office adapt to the needs of the communities they building, as well as a $2.4M capital funding serve. With traditional offerings such as grant generously provided by the Govern- internet access and book-lending, to new ment of Alberta, construction of a new head resources such as radon-detection kits and office is not expected to negatively impact virtual reality headsets, the member librar- its municipal stakeholders financially. ies of the Parkland Regional Library System provide world class service from right here ‘The Parkland Regional Library System is in Central Alberta. really a library for libraries,’ explains Donna Williams, Manager of Finance and Opera- “Moving forward and growing to meet the tions at PRL. ‘We offer support, material, demands of our region is a wonderful thing.” training, resources, and IT network support Sheppard comments. “Our new building to 49 public libraries serving 64 municipali- is the foundation for another 60 years to ties throughout Central Alberta, including the come.” Mary C. Moore Public Library in Lacombe.’ Details on the grand opening of PRL’s new The new building will incorporate many new head office will become available closer to features that will enable Parkland to offer completion. state of the art services to support public li- 23 CountyCounty News News - - AugustMarch 20, 18, 2020 2017 APRIL 2020 Help us promote Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 29 30 31 April 1 2 3 4 YOU! Do you know a 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 business, person, County Council place or volunteer 9AM Good Friday you want to see County News (OFFICE CLOSED) deadline profiled in County 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 News?

Easter Monday Do you have a (OFFICE CLOSED) photograph you want 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 to share?

County Council If so, email communications@ 9AM lacombecounty.com with your ideas, 26 27 28 29 30 May 1 2 photographs or stories.

We'd love to hear from you!

FIRE PERMITS - Lacombe County Directory QUICK, EASY & RR3, Lacombe Alberta T4L 2N3 www.lacombecounty.com FREE! Department Numbers: Main Office - 403-782-6601 Planning Services - 403-782-8389 You can request your fire Community Services - 403-782-8959 permit for FREE through the Operations - 403-782-8379 new "myLacombeCounty" app Public Works Shop - 403-782-3567 (for iPhone users), on www. General lacombecounty.com, by calling us at 403.782- Toll Free from Eckville and Ponoka 403.357.1770 8959, or by stopping by the office. After Hours Emergency Answering Service 403.357.1210 Administration Fax 403.782.3820 Public Works Fax 403.782.5356 Stay up to date! For Service Requests, see our website - or phone the switchboard at 403-782-6601 Senior Administration Tim Timmons, County Manager Follow us on social media [email protected] Michael Minchin, Director of Corporate Services [email protected] /LacombeCounty Call 403-782-6601 to speak Bill Cade, Director of Operations with the County Manager [email protected] or with a Lacombe County @LacombeCounty Dale Freitag, Director of Planning Services Director [email protected] Keith Boras, Director of Community Services [email protected] COUNTY NEWS Council Home Cell is published by Lacombe County and printed by John Ireland, Division 1 403.392.3981 PostMedia. If you have feedback or story ideas, Brenda Knight, Division 2 403.788.2168 403.550.2168 please contact: Barb Shepherd, Division 3 403.340.9724 Nicole Plewis, Communications Coordinator Paula Law, Division 4 403.784.3803 403.348.1755 [email protected] 403.782.6601 Ken Wigmore, Division 5 403.782.2593 403.588.1222 Keith Stephenson, Division 6 403.748.2431 403.350.4940 24 Dana Kreil, Division 7 403.746.3607 403.358.9400