Red Deer County News official news from centre december 2016 HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM RED DEER COUNTY

PREPARATION FOR BUDGET 2017-2019 DID YOU KNOW? Red Deer County tabled the 2017-19 Operating Expenditures and 2017-2021 Capital Projects Members of the public have two weeks at their regular Council meeting on November 22. County Council is now looking for public to comment on the information input on the budget, which maintains current service levels with no anticipated increases to provided in the draft budget. The report current tax rates. Deputy Mayor Christine Moore commented, “This budget is both realistic can be found at www.rdcounty.ca. and achievable. It reflects our economic reality, and shows accountability on the part of staff Once comments are received, the budget will go before Council on and Council. I would like to thank the staff and Council for their hard work in creating this December 6 for approval. budget.”

The County Operating budget will see only an overall decrease of approximately $1M over the WHAT’S INSIDE: next three years. 2017 will also see no changes to municipal levies. According to Director of Corporate Services Heather Gray-Surkan, “Administration has worked hard to ensure the Council/MPC Minutes...... Pg. 4-5 budget is fair to ratepayers, while still making meaningful progress on our strategic objectives. Heritage Recognition...... Pg. 10 We have acted on Council’s direction and ensured there is no undue hardship on County ratepayers.” ALUS Canada Update...... Pg. 15

Capital spending in 2017 will see a significant decrease. The decrease, from over $30M to roughly $26.4M, is primarily due to fewer large scale bridge repairs and reconstruction, which Publication Mail Agreement No 42792513 will average $4M per year over the next 5 years. Administration welcomes provincial funding Return undeliverable items to: to support County infrastructure projects. Red Deer County 38106 Rge Rd 275 • Red Deer County, AB • T4S 2L9

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facebook.com/reddeercounty ctyoun highlights COUNTY CONTRIBUTES TO 2019 CANADA WINTER GAMES

Red Deer County joins the 2019 Canada Winter Games as a Diamond Sponsor. Mayor Jim Wood meets with organizers from the Games and the City of Red Deer.

Councillor Christine Moore visits a Poplar Ridge grade County Fire and Technical Rescue members, along 6 class to discuss municipal government. with Mayor Jim Wood, take time to remember at a Remembrance Day memorial on November 11.

Red Deer County’s Green Acreages brings acreage owners information, expertise, resources and funding to make environmental improvements to their properties. Some projects that may be approved for funding: For more information contact: Tree & Shrub Planting • Riparian Fencing • Off-site Watering Systems Aimee Delaney, Green Acreages Coordinator • Cesspool Reclamation • Much more Phone: 403.350.2150 ext. 289 Email: [email protected] Red Deer County News - December 2016 2 What’s Happening in Red Deer County

Innisfail Municipal Seed Ridgewood Comunity Delburne, Elnora Area Crime Cleaning Plant Annual General Christmas: Watch - Residents from the Meeting: Monday December 12, Saturday, Dec. 10 at 6:00 PM at Delburne and Elnora areas are 2016 at 11:00 AM. All members the Ridgewood Hall. Potluck moving forward in forming a new We welcome your and people interested in joining supper to start at 6:00 PM, with a Crime Watch group. Regular this vibrant co-operative of Seed celebration to follow at 7:00 PM. meetings will start in the new feedback! Producers and area growers are Please bring a gift for your child year. For more information welcome to attend. for under the tree. Call contact Karen at 403.749.3606 or You can contact us with questions or 403.886.0059 for more email [email protected] comments at: [email protected] Double Tree Village Museum: information. or 403.350.2150 Sleigh Rides pulled by Belgian Delburne Snowflake Saturday- Teams for the Christmas Holiday Parkland Craft & Market Sales: On December 10, 2016 the Moira Duley - Corporate Communications Specialist Season and the New Year. Please These unique markets provide Delburne Chamber of Commerce Adam Ferguson - Corporate Communications Coordinator phone 403.728.3875 or email craftspeople/artisans with the is hosting a community-wide Tyler Harke - Corporate Communications Manager [email protected] to make your opportunity to showcase their celebration with lots of activities, reservation. Check out creative one-of-a-kind creations to sales and fun to be had twitter.com/reddeercounty www.doubletreevillage.com for the public ready for Christmas. It’s throughout the village. For more more information. a great time to come out and information, call Dave Grant at youtube.com/rdcounty purchase that handmade gift. 403.749.2595. facebook.com/reddeercounty Light Haven Calendars: Admission: donation to the Red Calendars for sale featuring Deer Food Bank. The market Explore Local Webinar Series- Central Albertan survivors and runs: Explore Local is hosting various Red Deer County welcomes reader fighters of cancer. Calendars are Dec. 3 10:100 AM - 4:00 PM webinars throughout 2016-2017 submissions, but reserves the right to $20 each. Please contact Karen Dec. 10 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM to help producers and processors approve/disapprove content. Ninkovich at 403.320.3869 for Dec. 17 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM build savvy marketing and staffing more information. skills. To register for a webinar, Current issues of County News are Innisfail Farmers/Farmerettes please visit: available free of charge at the Red Deer Sew and So’s: Quilting the first Bonspiel: January 15 - 21, 2017. www.explorelocal.ca/events County Centre, or can be viewed online at Tuesday of every month, at Valley Early bird registration before www.rdcounty.ca Centre Community Hall. Contact December 16, 2016 with a The webinars are 60 minutes in Donna Reay at 403.347.7198 for chance to win back your entry length and include a question and more information. fee. Must have two active or answer period. Have an Event? retired farmers/farmerettes. Men call Todd at 403.352.6767 or We are happy to list upcoming events Gary at 403.227.4556. in and around the Red Deer County Ladies call Yvonne at area. Submit your information to: 403.227.1476 or Jill at [email protected] 403.588.4951.

RED DEER AIRPORT ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENT OF NEW CEO

The Red Deer Regional Airport Authority Board of Directors are pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Graham Ingham as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Red Deer Airport. Mr. Ingham was selected after an executive search began to replace former CEO RJ Steenstra who stepped down from the role to take on a position with Fort McMurray Airport Authority. Mr. Ingham officially started in his new position with the Red Deer Airport on Monday, October 31.

“We are certainly pleased to bring Graham on board at such a critical time in the airport’s continued development,” says Dave Minhas, Red Deer Regional Airport Board Chair. “Graham brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in both the aviation and business sector and we are confident he will lead us into the future development of the airport and region.”

Mr. Ingham has over 25 years of aviation and business management experience. During that time he has flown a variety of aircraft types including the B727, B737, A320 and A330. Additionally he has held a number of Senior Management positions including Director of Flight Operations, Manager Flight Training and Company Emergency Response Director. He most recently held a Senior Product Management and Sales position with FLYHT Aerospace Solutions, an aviation software company based in .

“I am excited to take on this new role with the Red Deer Airport and build on the set vision to become the Aviation Gateway for Central ,” says Graham Ingham. “I look forward to working with the local community to ensure the airport grows as an economic driver that will bring both increased economic activity and pride to the region.” Red Deer Airport CEO, Graham Ingham

Red Deer County News - December 2016 3 council minutes municipal planning Red Deer County and Border Paving Ltd. – N ½ NE Bylaw No. 2016/37 – unanimous approval was given 28-37-27-4 (Division 2) The property is located south to first and second reading of Bylaw No. 2016/37 to commission of the City of Red Deer north of Twp Rd 374 on Rge amend Road Protection and Traffic Control Bylaw No. Rd 273. Unanimous approval was given to subdivide a 2011/38 to set the speed limit on Rge Rd 30 from 350 november 1, 2016 2.6-hectare (6.44-acre) parcel to establish a Municipal metres north of the Gleniffer Lake Resort entrance to Reserve, an Environmental Reserve and a Public the south end of the road at 50 km/hr. Utility lot, subject to one condition. The meeting was called to order at 9:30 AM with DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS Chairman Councillor P.J.R Massier, Mayor J.J. Wood, 734175 Alberta Ltd. – NE 29-38-28-4 (Division 6) NE 24-38-28-4 (Division 6) – unanimous approval was Councillors J.M. Bota, D.B. Church, C.R. Huelsman, The property is located approximately 4 miles west of given to approve a one-year extension to November 1, R.R. Lorenz and C. Moore in attendance. the City of Red Deer north of Hwy 11 on Rge Rd 284. 2017, for the conditionally approved subdivision of a Approval was given to subdivide a 53.85-hectare 10.14-hectare (25.08-acre) parcel into eight new lots AGENDA & MINUTES (133.06–acre) parcel into 39 Country Residential Unit and one Public Utility lot on NE 24-38-28-4. The agenda and minutes of the October 18, 2016, lots, subject to 11 conditions with Councillors Church, meeting were approved as submitted. Huelsman, Lorenz and Massier being in favor and NE 26-37-28-4 (Division 2) – unanimous approval was Mayor Wood, Councillors Bota and Moore being given to to defer a portion of the offsite levy payable DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS opposed. pursuant to the C&E Trail Offsite Levy Bylaw No. Kevin Ranger – Pt NE 26-37-28-4 (Division 2) The 2016/5 in conjunction with the location of a second property is located approximately 4 miles southwest of The meeting adjourned at 10:45 AM. dwelling (mobile home). the City of Red Deer north of Twp Rd 374 on the C&E Trail. Unanimous approval was given to locate a Bylaw No. 2016/2.03 – approval was given to third second dwelling (manufactured home), subject to nine * * * reading of the bylaw to redesignate 53.85 hectares conditions. (133.06 acres) within NE 29-38-28-4 from Agricultural District “Ag” to Country Residential District “R-1” with 1844889 Alberta Ltd (Mudders Wash) – Lot 1, Block COUNCIL Mayor Wood, Councillors Church, Huelsman, Lorenz 2, Plan 002-0557, NE 20-37-27-4 (Division 2) The and Massier being in favor and Councillors Bota and property is located south of the City of Red Deer south Moore being opposed. of McKenzie Road within the Gasoline Alley West november 1, 2016 Business Park. Unanimous approval was given to PUBLIC HEARINGS locate 3 freestanding signs with a variance to the Bylaw No. 2016/29 – approval was given to forward to minimum distance between the bottom of the sign and The meeting was called to order at 11:00 AM with the Minister of Transportation for consideration the grade and the location of two over-sized fascia signs Mayor J.J. Wood, Deputy Mayor C. Moore, Councillors bylaw for the closure and lease to Red Deer County of on the east and west walls, subject to 19 conditions. J.M. Bota, D.B. Church, C.R. Huelsman, R.R. Lorenz approximately 1.25 acres of undeveloped road and P.J.R. Massier in attendance. allowance of Rge Rd 275 between the NE 19 and NW SUBDIVISION APPLICATIONS 20, 37 27-4 adjacent to Plan 5770KS, Lot H with Mayor Paul and Helen Overwater - SE 17-37-22-4 & Lot 1, AGENDA & MINUTES Wood, Councillors Bota, Church, Huelsman, Lorenz Block 1, Plan 132-3958 (Division 1) The November 1, 2016, agenda was approved with the and Moore being in favor and Councillor Massier being The property is located approximately 4 miles east of addition of item 9.1 Negotiations, FOIP Section 25(1) opposed. the Village of Delburne west of Rge Rd 224 on Twp Rd (c). The minutes of the October 18, 2016, 372. Unanimous approval was given to subdivide a organizational meeting and the October 18, 2016, COMMITTEE REPORTS 2.2-hectare (5.48-acre) parcel from Lot 1 to be regular meeting of County Council were approved as Councillors reported on meetings they have attended consolidated with the remainder of the quarter section, submitted. on behalf of Red Deer County since October 19, 2016. subject to six conditions. MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES The meeting adjourned at 2:05 PM. Maine Haven Ranching Co. Ltd. – Block 1, Plan Motion No. CC-16-223 – unanimous approval was 011-1018, NE 24-34-1-5 (Division 4) given to reconsider Motion No. CC-16-223 and to The property is located east of the Town of Bowden approve a contribution to be allocated over the two- south of Hwy 2A on Hwy 587. Unanimous approval year period of 2016 and 2017 to the 2019 Canada was given to subdivide a 10.95-hectare (27.6-acre) * * * Winter Games with the funds to come from the parcel containing a farmstead, subject to nine Community Services Reserve and to amend the 2016 conditions. budget accordingly. municipal planning Bemoco Land Surveying Ltd. for Number Four REPORTS commission Holdings Ltd. – Lot 1, Block 3, Plan 102-3221 & Lot Town of Penhold Notice of Intent to Annex Lands november 22, 2016 3, Block 3, Plan 122-0690, SW 27-37-27-4 (Division – unanimous approval was given to approve in The property is located south of the City of Red 2) principle the Town of Penhold’s proposed annexation, Deer within McKenzie Industrial Business Park pursuant to the proposed process for negotiation and north of Twp Rd 374 on Rge Rd 273. Unanimous consultation, as presented by the Town in its formal The meeting was called to order at 9:30 AM with approval was given to subdivide a 0.31 hectare (0.77- Notice of Intent to Annex Lands From Red Deer Chairman Councillor P.J.R Massier, Councillors J.M. acre) parcel from Lot 3 to be consolidated with Lot 1, County. Bota, D.B. Church, C.R. Huelsman, R.R. Lorenz and subject to four conditions. C. Moore in attendance and Mayor J.J. Wood being 2016 Operating and Capital Budget Variance absent. Report – unanimous approval was given to accept the 2016 Budget Variance Report and the Capital Variance AGENDA & MINUTES Report as of September 30, 2016, as information. The agenda and minutes of the November 22, 2016, meeting were approved as submitted.

Red Deer County News - December 2016 4 council minutes continued

DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS with setback requirements, subject to six conditions. Derick and Louise Rautenbach – Lot 10, Block 3, Expanding Horizons Bowden Cultural Plan 802-2755, NE 28-38-28-4 585075 Alberta Inc. – SE 29-37-26-4 (Division 2) The Enhancement Society, Funding Request – (Division 6) The property is located approximately 1.9 property is located approximately 2 miles southeast of unanimous approval was given to provide $300,000 in miles west of the City of Red Deer within the Poplar the City of Red Deer south of Hwy 595 on Rge Rd 264. additional funding to go toward the costs of Ridge subdivision. Unanimous approval was given to Unanimous approval was given to consolidate a constructing a new community hall within the Town of locate an accessory building within the front yard, 3.74-hectare (9.25 acre) parcel to create an Bowden. subject to 10 conditions. unsubdivided quarter section and to further subdivide a 3.7 hectare (9.14-acre) parcel containing a farmstead, Utility Fee Adjustment, Red Deer Flying Club – Travis and Kimberley McIntyre – Lot 2, Block 2, subject to six conditions. unanimous approval was given to the request to adjust Plan 052-4562, NE 32-38-28-4 (Division 6) The the fees paid for this utility account customer from the property is located approximately 2.5 miles west of the The meeting adjourned at 10:40 AM. Commercial rates to the Residential rates. City of Red Deer south of Hwy 11A on Rge Rd 284. Unanimous decision was made to deny the application Bylaw No. 2016/37 – unanimous approval was given to construct a 4,806m2 (44,000ft2) Value Added * * * to adopt the bylaw to set the speed limit on Rge Rd 30 Agricultural building as it was deemed the due to the from 350 metres north of the Gleniffer Lake Resort close proximity of existing country residential COUNCIL entrance to the south end of the road at 50 km/hr. development, the proposed Use was not compatible with the surrounding land uses and a business of this Bylaw No. 2016/38 – unanimous approval was given nature is more suitable in an industrial area. to adopt the bylaw to set the following speed limits november 22, 2016 (administrative correction as the speeds are currently Larry and Joanne Werner – Pt SW 1-35-1-5 posted; however, they are not included in bylaw): 30 (Division 4) The meeting was called to order at 10:47 AM with km/hr – subdivisions of Canyon Heights, Forest Green, The property is located approximately 1.9 miles north Deputy Mayor C. Moore, Councillors J.M. Bota, D.B. Garrington Acres, Linn Valley, Red Lodge Estates and of the Town of Bowden west of Hwy 2 on Twp Rd 350. Church, C.R. Huelsman, R.R. Lorenz and P.J.R. Woodland Estates; 40 km/hr – of Ardley and Unanimous approval was given to locate a second Massier in attendance and Mayor J.J. Wood being Herder subdivision; 50 km/hr – Twp Rd 364 from Hwy dwelling (manufactured home and addition), subject to absent. 42 southeast to Hwy 816. 10 conditions. AGENDA & MINUTES DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS Stewart Windrum and Donna Morrison – Unit 11, The agenda and the minutes of the November 1, 2016, NW 12-36-3-5 (Division 5) – unanimous approval was Plan 002-3846, NE 25-35-3-5 (Division 5) regular meeting of County Council were approved as given to to defer payment of the offsite levy payable The property is located north of the Gleniffer Reservoir submitted. pursuant to the Spruce View Offsite Levy Bylaw No. within Phase 3 of the Gleniffer Lake Resort. 2001/10 in relation to the application to subdivide a Unanimous approval was given for a 0.23-metre (0.76’) REPORTS 5.67-hectare (14.02-acre) parcel containing a drainage side yard setback relaxation for an existing park model 2017 Operating and Capital Budget – the proposed system and wetlands in order to create a public utility with attached sunroom and covered deck, subject to 2017 budget was considered and tabled by Council lot. one condition. and is available for public review and comment. The budget will be considered again at the December 6, Bylaw No. 2016/39 – unanimous approval was given SUBDIVISION APPLICATIONS 2016, meeting. This budget information is available on to first reading to the bylaw to amend Part 18, Douglas Rogers and Catherine Lane - Pt SW 16-38- the County’s website at www.rdcounty.ca Condominium Resort Residential District (R-7) of the 23-4 and Plan 5773AK (Division 1) Land Use Bylaw to ensure consistency with the Land The property is located within the Hamlet of Ardley Fee Bylaw No. 2016/35 – unanimous approval was Use Bylaw and the Safety Codes Act.This land use west of Winnipeg Avenue and East of Goyne Avenue. given to adopt this bylaw that sets various fees for district applies to Gleniffer Lake Resort and Whispering Unanimous approval was given to subdivide and services, information, applications or appeals for 2017. Pines Resort. The public hearing was scheduled for consolidate a 0.25-hectare (0.617 acre) parcel and a December 20, 2016. 0.736-hectare (1.56-acre) parcel in order to reconfigure Bylaw No. 2016/36 to amend Gasoline Alley Offsite the parcels to create more suitable building sites, Levies Bylaw No. 2014/23 – unanimous approval was Bylaw No. 2016/40 – unanimous approval was given subject to seven conditions. given to adopt this bylaw to amend this offsite levies to first reading to the bylaw to amend Part 31, Direct bylaw to include information from the 2016 project Control District #21 (Carefree Resort) of the Land Use Kevin Charlton and Barbara Friesen – NW 32-35-2- review and cost adjustments. Bylaw to require a development permit to be issued 5 (Division 5) prior to development occurring and to provide The property is approximately 2.3 miles southeast of 2016 Capital Assistance Grants – unanimous consistency with the Land Use Bylaw and the Safety the Hamlet of Spruce View and 1.2 miles north of the approval was given to award the 2016 Rural Codes Act. The public hearing was scheduled for Gleniffer Reservoir Unanimous approval was given to Community Facility Capital Assistance Grants to the December 20, 2016. subdivide a 10.95-hectare (27.6-acre) parcel following community organizations: Elks 404 containing a farmstead, subject to nine conditions. (Benalto Community Hall), $5,500; Pine Lake Hub Bylaw No. 2016/41 - unanimous approval was given to Centre Community Association, $9,000; Poplar Ridge first reading to the bylaw to amend Part 31, Direct Red Deer County and Brian Kure – NW 12-36-3-5 Community Center, $4,247.50; Ridgewood Community Control District #6 (Dickson Cove) of the Land Use (Division 5) The property is located immediately east Hall, $8,812.23; Spruce View Community Association Bylaw to provide consistency with the Land Use Bylaw of the Hamlet of Spruce View, south of Hwy 54. (Hall), $27,254.50; Stephan G. Stephannson Icelandic and the Safety Codes Act. The public hearing was Unanimous approval was given to subdivide a Society for Fensala Hall, $5,349.75; Great Bend scheduled for December 20, 2016 5.67-hectare (14.02-acre) parcel containing a drainage Community Centre, $3,918; Glenellen Community system and wetlands in order to create a public utility Centre Association, $3,629.96; Linn Valley Community COMMITTEE REPORTS lot, subject to five conditions. Hall, $37,485; Oklahoma Community Centre, Councillors reported on meetings they have attended $26,630.05; Raven Community Hall, $8,430.85; on behalf of Red Deer County since November 2, Debra and Dale Greenwood – SW 6-36-222-4 Trenville Community Hall, $8,492.16; Benalto 2016. The property is located east of Goose Quill Lake north Agricultural Society, $31,250; and Red Deer Titans of Hwy 590 on Rge Rd 230. Unanimous approval was Rugby Football Club, $70,000. The meeting adjourned at 2:19 PM. given for a boundary adjustment in order to comply * * *

Red Deer County News - December 2016 5 PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC HEARING - TUESDAY, December resort districts by requiring a development clarity as to when a development permit is 20, 2016, at 1:30 PM for permit to be issued prior to the placement of required, adding additional requirements in a recreational vehicle or park model and the relation to buildings and decks and in relation Bylaw No. 2016/39 to amend Part 18, construction of a sunroom or deck. to site design and adding a Site Design map Condominium Resort Residential District Additional changes include further clarity in as Schedule ‘B’ to the District. (R-7), of the Land Use Bylaw to ensure the regulations relative to decks, a change to consistency with the Land Use Bylaw and the minimum side yard setbacks, allowing The hearing will be informal and persons the Safety Codes Act. Some of the proposed accessory buildings in the front, side or rear wishing to speak will be requested to state changes are adding a maximum site yard and decreasing the minimum distance their name and address for the record upon coverage of 65%, providing clarity in the requirement between principal and being recognized by the Chair. regulations relative to decks, decreasing the accessory buildings. minimum distance requirement between If you prefer to submit comments on the principal and accessory buildings and bylaws in writing, the information you provide providing more detailed regulations relative Bylaw No. 2016/41 to amend Part 31, Direct may be made public, subject to the to the construction of attached garages. Control District #6 (Dickson Cove), of the provisions of the Freedom of Information and This district applies to Whispering Pines Land Use Bylaw to ensure consistency with Protection of Privacy Act. Resort (Pine Lake) and Gleniffer Lake the Land Use Bylaw and the Safety Codes Resort. Act. Some of the proposed changes are Copies of the proposed bylaws are available including only Accessory Building, Park on the County’s website www.rdcounty.ca or Bylaw No. 2016/40 to amend Part 31, Direct Model and Recreation Vehicle as Permitted by visiting the County office during regular Control District #21 (Carefree Resort), of the Uses and adding Discretionary Uses of office hours, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday Land Use Bylaw to provide consistency in all Cottage and Community Facility, providing through Friday. community services ASSESSMENT INSPECTION TRANSIT NOTICE NOTICES DECEMBER 2016

PUBLIC NOTICE JANUARY 2017 Saturday, December 24, 2016 Tuesday, December 27, 2016 Last departure from City Centre Regular weekday transit service Notice is hereby given as per section 294 of the Municipal Government terminal is at 6:15 PM. Last hours. Act that the Assessment Department is starting its annual inspection of departure from Bower Mall for Route properties for the 2017 tax year. 12A is 5:00 PM (this allows Saturday, December 31, 2016 passengers to transfer to Route 1 in Regular Saturday transit service In accordance with Provincial regulations, all properties within Red time to make it to City Centre for the hours. Customer service and phone last buses out of the terminal). lines are closed. Deer County are reviewed on a five year cycle to ensure that Transit Customer Service and Phone assessment information remains current. The Red Deer County lines are closed. Sunday, January 1, 2017 Assessment Department strives to value property as fairly as possible NO TRANSIT SERVICE. Transit in relation to similar property, and in accordance with Provincial Sunday, December 25, 2016 Customer Service and Phone lines regulations and guidelines. By doing so, our goal is to distribute the NO TRANSIT SERVICE. Transit are closed. Customer Service and Phone lines Action Bus Phone lines will be annual property tax burden fairly amongst accurately assessed are closed. closed and NO Action Bus service properties. Action Bus Phone lines will be will be provided closed and limited pre-booked Our Assessors will be working throughout Red Deer County reviewing service will be provided including Monday, January 2, 2017 property assessments from now to the end of the year. They will have County Action Bus. Regular weekday transit service hours. Customer service and phone identification and they will be driving a Red Deer County marked Monday, December 26, 2016 lines are closed. vehicle, identifying them as employees of Red Deer County. Transit service will operate on Sunday / Holiday hours. No service Should you have any questions or concerns regarding this, please do on BOLT Routes 100/101. Transit information is available online not hesitate to contact our office at 403.350.2166, during regular Transit Customer Service and Phone lines are closed. at: business hours. Action Bus Phone lines will be www.reddeer.ca/transit closed and limited pre-booked service will be provided including County Action Bus.

Red Deer County News - December 2016 6 community services continued

CENTRAL ALBERTA FALLS PREVENTION COALITION

Anyone can fall, but as we age the risk of falling and getting injured increases. Falls are the leading cause of serious injuries in older adults with over 8700 hospital admissions resulting in over $160M in health care expense in 2011. Every year, one in three Alberta seniors will fall, leading to potential disability, physical and mental distress and diminished quality of life.

Are you at risk of falling: • Have you had a slip, trip, or fall in the past year? • Do you feel your muscles are weaker (i.e. is it harder to stand up from a chair)? • Has it been more than 1 year since your health care provider or pharmacist reviewed your medications? • Do you feel dizzy or lightheaded when you stand up or when walking? • When walking, do you feel unsteady on your feet? • Has it been more than 1 year since you had your eyes checked? • Have you stopped doing daily activities because you were afraid of falling? • Do you have to rush to make it to the bathroom?

If you answered YES to any of these questions, you may be at risk of falling. Talk to your doctor or health care provider about what actions you can take to prevent falls and stay independent. Red Deer County Community Services is part of the Central Alberta Falls Prevention Coalition, which works to increase the awareness and knowledge of seniors’ falls and to promote resources on seniors’ falls prevention. www.rdcounty.ca

Red Deer County provides funding to each of the County’s six divisional Recreation and Recreation & Culture Boards, which are comprised of community members. These Boards create and provide recreational and cultural opportunities to the residents of their respective divisions.

Culture Boards Discover a full listing of recreation, sports, health, club, event, and volunteer opportunities for you and your family online!

Division 1 Division 3 Division 5 www.div1rec-culture.com www.div3rec-culture.com www.div5rec-culture.com Check your Recreation & Culture Board Web Division 2 Division 4 Division 6 Site for upcoming Ski www.div2rec-culture.com email: [email protected] www.div6rec-culture.com Programs! Facebook: Red Deer County Division 4 Recreation and Culture Board email: [email protected]

Red Deer County News - December 2016 7 community services continued FAMILY & COMMUNITY SUPPORT SERVICES (FCSS) Red Deer County Council participates in a 10 year FCSS Multi-Municipal Agreement. For decades, Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) has been working as a provincial-municipal government initiative to enhance the social wellbeing of individuals, families and community in an effort to keep people resilient, well, and from falling into crisis.

Playgroup – Wednesdays at Penhold Memorial Hall BOWDEN FCSS (1123 Fleming Avenue) 9:15 AM to 11:15 AM. Drop in Spruce View Boys and Girls Club – Mondays after Contact Jade Prefontaine, Phone, 403.224.2207, is $2 and $1 every additional child, babies are free. school at the Spruce View School. email, [email protected] and Facebook, Program is for ages 0-5, a safe, fun environment for FCSS Bowden. your child to learn socialization through play. Spruce View Seniors Drop-In Centre – Wednesday Check Town of Bowden website at www.town. December 7, 14, 21. Coffee from 10:00AM to 12:00 NOON. Contact Ruth bowden.ab.ca to find all the current events. Lemke, 403.728.3482. Teddy Bear Checkup, Dental Day – Thursday, December 15th from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM at Christmas Event at Spruce View Seniors Drop-In DELBURNE FCSS Penhold Library. Bring your teddy bear and drop in for Centre - with Spruce View Playschool and Choir on Carol Kihn, Delburne FCSS Community Worker at a dental check-up, for children up to 3 years old with Wed. December 7th from 10:00 AM to 12:00 NOON. 403.749.3654, Monday to Thursday from 9:00 AM to Joy Hibbs, Dental Assistant. Contact Jamie Selyama, 4:30 PM or email at [email protected] Family Resource Coordinator for more information, Spruce View Community Welcomers Program – 403.886.3250 or [email protected] Contact FCSS if you are new to the community! Delburne Boys & Girls Club – Kids Club for ages 6 to 12 after school every Thursday at Delburne Free Public Skating at the Multiplex – Sundays BENALTO PROGRAMS Centralized School until 5:30 PM. Ages 13 to 17 meet from 4:00 PM to 5:15 PM. Just a reminder that Benalto Boys and Girls Club – Benalto Kids Club for every Thursday – the first Thursday of every month anyone under the age of 16 MUST wear a helmet. ages 6-10 -- Tuesdays from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM. has a lunch-time program at the school during the Please contact the Booking Clerk at 403.886.3260 or Benalto Torch Club for ages 11 to 14 – Tuesdays from youth’s lunch break. Every other Thursday runs from [email protected] for ice rentals and other 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM in the Arts Room at the school. inquiries. Benalto Playgroup – Wednesdays from 10:00 AM to Delburne Community Kitchen – Meets every 11:30 AM. Wednesday to learn about nutrition, recipes, cooking SPRINGBROOK FCSS and shopping tips. Next session begins Wed. January To register or for information on any Springbrook Benalto Seniors Leisure Centre – Contact Linda for 4, 2017. For more information, contact Kathy at FCSS program, call Adrian at 403.350.9533 or search further information at 403.746,2994. 403.749.2590 or Donna at 403.749.2100. Springbrook FCSS on Facebook. Benalto Community Welcomers Program – Contact Healthy Breakfast Program at Delburne Springbrook Archery Club – Shoot times Thursday FCSS if you are new to the community! Centralized School. To volunteer, contact Bonnie at evenings from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM, Fridays from 7:00 403.749.3434. PM to 9:00 PM and Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Club is available for private bookings and parties. Moms & Tots – meets every Wednesday at 9:00 AM Located downstairs through south entrance of the at Delburne Drop-In Centre. Pine Lake meets every Springbrook Multiplex. New archers welcome! second Thursday at 9:00 AM in the Pine Lake Hub Equipment available for use. 2017 memberships Centre. available now. Winter leagues start in January. FCSS RED DEER & DISTRICT Delburne Playschool – Tuesdays and Thursdays Springbrook Community Skate Park Committee – FUNDING ORIENTATION: from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM, St. Michael’s Catholic Fundraising is in full swing for the new park. We are Church basement. For more information, contact looking for people with experience in grant writing and Carole, 403.340.6822. fundraising to help our team. Meetings are scheduled for first Wednesday of every month, 7:00 PM at You’re invited to the Red Deer & Springbrook Fire Hall. Volunteer drivers and runners District FCSS Funding Opportunity ELNORA FCSS needed for bottle drive on January 14. Information Session. This orientation For information on any Elnora FCSS program, please is for community partners interested call Sheila Gongaware or Janina Jewell at 403.773.3920 or [email protected] Like us on WEST COUNTY FCSS in the upcoming 2018-2020 funding Facebook @ ‘Elnora and District FCSS’ Pam Hetu, 403.505.9091 or [email protected] cycle. Merry Christmas everyone! SPRUCE VIEW PROGRAMS Ladies Evening Out – Wed. December 21 from 7:00 Spruce View Community Kitchen – Once a month Tuesday, December 13 PM to 8:30 PM at the Elnora Ag. Building. Doing at the Spruce View School. Please contact FCSS for 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM stage 3 in making leather gloves and learning how to further information at 403.505.9091 or G.H. Dawe Centre Activity Room 3 attach the fingers. It’s too late to join this class but you [email protected] are welcome to come and see what Ladies Night is all 51 Holt Street, Red Deer about, and we will be discussing 2017 Ladies Night Spruce View Parent Link – Fridays in Dickson from ideas. 10:00 AM to 12:00 NOON. Contact For more information, phone www.mcmancentral.ca or Facebook at Red Deer 403.342.8100, email fcss@reddeer. County Parent Link Centre, 403.505.2590, PENHOLD FCSS [email protected] ca or visit www.reddeer.ca/fcss Contact Jennifer Blaylock, Phone: 403.886.4567. Email: [email protected] Spruce View Playgroup – Thursdays from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM, no charge. Red Deer County News - December 2016 8 community services continued

2016 M.J. MAXSON MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

On his passing in 1982, Magnus Johann Maxson, a long-time county resident and bachelor bequeathed the balance of his estate after tax and dispersals to create an academic scholarship that would assist county youth in their pursuit of advanced learning. Since then, on Mr. Maxson’s request, Red Deer County has acted as the trustee of the monies that were originally donated.

Congratulations to the following 2016 scholarship winners of $500.00 each:

Melinda Hatfield, Delburne Centralized School (pictured top right) Hailey Messer, Penhold Crossing Secondary School (pictured right) Brayden Olmstead, Sylvan Lake Ecole H. J. Cody School (pictured top left)

COUNTY APPROVES UP TO $1.5M FOR DELBURNE AGRIPLEX

At the November 22 Council meeting, Red Deer County Council agreed to provide funding to the Delburne Ag Society for a major renovation to the Delburne Agriplex.

The total value of project is estimated at $1,509,976 and includes renovation of the existing Zamboni Room into a livestock wash rack; addition of four dressing rooms and two bathrooms with showers; and construction of a new Zamboni/Mechanical Room.

In 2008, a functional analysis report identified a number of priority upgrades needed to be undertaken to maintain operations of the building. The report indicated dressing rooms were small and outdated. It also noted an insufficient number of change rooms to accommodate teams of both genders. The Zamboni Room needs to be upgraded as there are code compliance issues.

With the addition of outside stalls, the renovation will allow for agricultural programs such as 4-H, rodeo and riding arena organizations to utilize facility to feed and water their livestock on site. The facility is operational year round, with adult and minor hockey programs and figure skating offered in winter months, and 4-H programs and as a riding arena in the summer months. Division 1 Councillor Philip Massier commented, “The people in Delburne and region use this facility all the time. I know it will see even more useage with this renovation. It will be a tremendous boost to the community and give people of all ages healthy activities in winter and summer.”

The Ag Society has already raised almost $500,000 of the cost for the renovation. They are also working with Red Deer County Community Services to secure more grants from Provincial and Federal sources. Ultimately, the amount Council agreed to fund will depend on other monies that come forward. However, it will be significantly less than the total $1.5M price tag.

Red Deer County News - December 2016 9 THE HERITAGE RECOGNITION AWARDS 2016 LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD: BERNICE ANDERSEN Bernice Andersen has been nominated for her contributions The Red Deer Heritage Recognition Awards were established in 2002 by the to the preservation of, and raising the awareness of, the rich Heritage Preservation Committee, an Advisory Committee to City Council. The heritage of early Icelandic settlers in Central Alberta. Awards recognize outstanding efforts in heritage preservation, education and awareness within the City of Red Deer and Red Deer County. Bernice is a Charter member of the Stephan G. Each year, the Heritage Preservation Committee receives nominations from the Stephansson Icelandic Society which was established in public recognizing the achievements of others and presents Heritage 1974. The Society is responsible for the operation and Recognition Awards to individuals or groups who demonstrate excellence in one preservation of a number of historic buildings in , or more of the following categories: including the Markerville Creamery, Fensala Hall, Lutheran Church and the Tindastoll Cemetery. HERITAGE ADVOCACY, EDUCATION AND For the past forty years Bernice has been actively involved AWARENESS: in the Society and has spent many thousands of volunteer hours working on culture and heritage initiatives. Bernice STEPHAN G. STEPHANSSON ICELANDIC SOCIETY has volunteered on special events such as the annual Icelandic Independence Celebration, the 40th Anniversary of the Society in 2014, the 30th Anniversary of the Historic The Stephan G. Stephansson Icelandic Society, which was Markerville Creamery in 2016 and the 10th anniversary of established in 1974, has been nominated for its work since the Historic Fensala Hall in 2016. 2012 in heritage conservation, and the preservation and interpretation of the history of the early Icelandic settlers in She was also the Chair of the Committee that coordinated Alberta. the restoration of the Historic Markerville Lutheran Church, and she assisted with the project to restore the Fensala Most recently in 2016, the Society hosted a gala to Hall. Bernice was the chair of the 125th Anniversary of the celebrate the 125th Anniversary of the Icelandic Ladies Aid Icelandic Ladies Aid Vonin. In 2015, Bernice chaired the (Vonin), and two special events celebrating the 30th Historical Sign Project which oversaw the development of Anniversary of the Creamery Museum and the 10th 22 heritage interpretive signs in Markerville. Anniversary of the Fensala Hall restoration.

She also helped with the development of the new The Society’s enthusiasm and passion for preserving and Markerville and District Historical Tour booklet. Bernice has sharing Icelandic heritage has made Historic Markerville a also maintained the Society’s archives for forty years and major tourist destination and has contributed to our has helped out at other annual events, fund-raisers and with knowledge of the early settlers in Alberta.. school programs.

Bernice’s passion and enthusiasm for preserving heritage and culture has enriched the lives of the many volunteers and visitors who flock to Markerville each year.

The Stephan G. Stephansson Society Icelandic Festival

The Heritage Recognition Awards Recipients

Red Deer County News - December 2016 10 THE HERITAGE RECOGNITION AWARDS 2016 BUILT AND NATURAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION, PROTECTION AND The Red Deer Heritage Recognition Awards were established in 2002 by the PRESERVATION: Heritage Preservation Committee, an Advisory Committee to City Council. The DANISH CANADIAN MUSEUM Awards recognize outstanding efforts in heritage preservation, education and awareness within the City of Red Deer and Red Deer County. Each year, the Heritage Preservation Committee receives nominations from the The Danish Canadian Museum has been nominated for its public recognizing the achievements of others and presents Heritage work in building the Freydis Joanna Viking ship and a Naust Recognition Awards to individuals or groups who demonstrate excellence in one (ship house) to display it in. The Danish Canadian Museum or more of the following categories: Society, which is committed to promoting and preserving the history of Danish Canadians in the Red Deer area and LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD: Canada, was established in 1992.

DON HEPBURN In 2002, the Society opened the Danish Canadian Museum, which has more than 5,000 artifacts that showcase the rich history of the Danish settlers in Alberta. The Museum is Don Hepburn has been nominated for his contributions to situated on thirteen acres of green space which includes cultural heritage preservation, education and awareness in walking trails, outdoor exhibits, the Danish Garden, Central Alberta over the last twenty years. Children’s Imagination Garden and the Children’s Storytelling Hut. The Museum hosts a number of special Don was one of the founding members of the Central events including the annual Viking Days Celebrations in Alberta Historical Society (CAHS) and has assisted with August. many of the Society’s events including the annual CAHS bus tour of historic sites which he organized for nearly twenty years.

Don has also served on the Society’s publications committee and was involved in the production of six books on Central Alberta history. Don chaired Historic Red Deer Week, an annual week-long event in which 25 – 30 groups organized their own special events to celebrate heritage. Don has also been a strong supporter of the annual Central Alberta Schools Fair which encourages, and celebrates, original research projects from grade 4 – 9 students on the history of Central Alberta and Canada. Don was a member of the 2013 City of Red Deer Centennial Celebrations Committee.

He was also one of the CAHS coordinators of the Historic Arches Project which includes 27 heritage interpretive signs The Danish Canadian Museum Freydis Joanna Viking ship on the history of the railroad in Central Alberta. Don has also served as a member of the Red Deer & District Museum Board, the Normandeau Cultural and Natural History Society, and the Red Deer Heritage Preservation Committee.

Most recently Don was an active participant in the Remembering the Children Society, a project that was initiated by Sunnybrook United Church and First Nations communities to remember the children who attended the Red Deer Industrial Institute, also known as the Red Deer Indian Residential School.

The Stephan G. Stephansson Society Icelandic Festival Don’s passion for preserving, celebrating and sharing our heritage has benefitted many generations of Central Alberta County Mayor Jim Wood at the Awards Ceremony residents and visitors.

Red Deer County News - December 2016 11 operation services

In 2016, Red Deer County’s Operations department oversaw many different projects that involved upgrading current infrastructure. Each year, Council approves these projects within the budget. This year included projects that handled asphalt overlay, road reconstruction, culvert and bridge structure replacements, sidewalk construction and an overhaul of the Spruce View Reservoir and Water Treatment Plant. The pictures below are three of the projects that were completed this year. For a more extensive list of completed projects, see page 13. The 2017 budget will go for first reading on December 6, with projects being finalized by early 2017.

BEFORE AFTER

Pictured above is a bridge structure replacement project that took place at Township Road 374, west of Highway 2A.

Bridge structure replacement project that took place at Range Road 20, north of Township Road 352.

Range Road 10 was widened and paved in 2016 from Highway 54 to Highway 592.

Red Deer County News - December 2016 12 operation services continued

SPRUCE VIEW RESERVOIR UPGRADE

BEFORE DURING CONSTRUCTION

Construction of the Spruce View Reservoir and Water Treatment Plant began in April 2016 and is on schedule to be completed in the first quarter of 2017. This is a Building Canada funded project under the Small Community Funds program. The new reservoir will increase the water storage capacity in the hamlet considerably which will improve firefighting capabilities as well as allow for future growth in the community. As well, the aging water treatment plant, which is starting to see high yearly maintenance costs, will be replaced with a new plant which will include modern filtration, distribution and system controls.

HIGHLIGHTED OPERATIONS PROJECTS FROM 2016

LOCATION DESCRIPTION LIMITS

RANGE ROAD 10 WIDEN/BASE/PAVE HWY 54 TO HWY 592 HILLSIDE MEADOWS ASPHALT OVERLAY ACCESS ROAD TANAMERA ACRES ASPHALT OVERLAY ACCESS ROAD LOUIS VICTOR ASPHALT OVERLAY ACCESS ROAD SPRUCE LANE ACRES ASPHALT OVERLAY SELECT ROADS COUNTRY LANE ESTATES ASPHALT OVERLAY ACCESS ROAD LEVA AVENUE SIDEWALK CONSTRUCTION EAST/WEST SIDE OF LEVA AVE RANGE ROAD 245 ROAD RECONSTRUCTION HWY 590 TO TR 362 RANGE ROAD 21 ROAD RECONSTRUCTION TR 352 SOUTH 2.6 KM RANGE ROAD 265 ROAD RECONSTRUCTION TR 372 TO TWP RD 374 BRIDGE FILE 00717 BRIDGE REPLACEMENT TR 374/ WEST OF HWY 2A BRIDGE FILE 01514 BRIDGE REPLACEMENT TR 364/ EAST OF RR 45 BRIDGE FILE 07877 BRIDGE REPLACEMENT RR 32 SOUTH OF TR 384 BRIDGE FILE 75004 CULVERT REPLACEMENT TR 374 EAST OF RR 12 BRIDGE FILE 83155 CULVERT REPLACEMENT TR 354 EAST OF RR 40 BRIDGE FILE 08981 CULVERT REPLACEMENT RR 40 NORTH OF TR 354 BRIDGE FILE 73785 BRIDGE REPLACEMENT RR 20 NORTH OF TR 352 SPRUCE VIEW RESERVOIR AND WATER SPRUCE VIEW TREATMENT PLANT

Red Deer County News - December 2016 13 conservation GO GREEN THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

By Aimee Delaney, Conservation Assistant Regardless of how small or seemingly insignificant Chances are good that you take steps to conserve the any of these particular ecosystems may seem, environment, whether you realize it or not. In fact, damage to one often has detrimental effects on many being green is so easy and beneficial that folks do if not all others. Conserving the environment is done much of it absentmindedly in their daily lives; turning with many simple tactics like recycling, buying off the tap as you brush your teeth, using a ceramic products made of recycled material, and even using mug for your daily cup of coffee instead of using reusable containers, yet a 2013 survey from Canadian disposable cups, and printing double-sided or being Energy Efficiency Alliance stated just 22% of paper-free to reduce unnecessary waste, etc. Today Canadians are doing everything they can to conserve, being green is as simple as can be, but do we actually although most believe it is important. understand why this is so essential for our future? So why is our environment important? There are a Environmental conservation simply implies the billion reasons, but first and foremost this is our home sustainable use as well as management of natural and our food source – we’d have a hard time surviving resources. This is important for many reasons - if we did not conserve it. Find green tips you use to protecting the ozone layers to reduce UV radiation, protect the environment over the holidays or anytime Everyone has their own reason to conserve, to get maintaining animal and human food chains and how at: started on your plan to protect the environment by their interactions with each other, preserving potable http://www.greentourismcanada.ca/10-tips-to-green- contacting Aimee Delaney at 403.350.2150 or email drinking water, making efficient use of non-renewable up-the-holidays/ at [email protected]. resources, and perhaps most importantly protecting our health.

THE CLASSROOM AGRICULTURE PROGRAM IS IN NEED OF VOLUNTEERS

Background information on CAP: CAP is a not-for profit organization that teaches grade 4 students where their food comes from and the importance of agriculture in their daily lives. Industry experts volunteer their time to help teach students about agriculture. Each lesson is free for the classroom and is typically about an hour long. Since 1985, over 600,000 students across Alberta have taken part in CAP. CAP is a multi-commodity initiative supported by:

• Agriculture For Life • Alberta Beef Producers • Alberta Chicken Producers • Egg Farmers of Alberta • Alberta Barley Commission CAP is a not-for-profit organization that relies on people who are dedicated to pre- • Alberta Canola Producers Commission serving and promoting agriculture. Anyone who has a passion for agriculture can • Eastern Irrigation District be involved in CAP. • Alberta Wheat Commission • Alberta Milk What do volunteers do in CAP? • Alberta Irrigation Projects Association Any Grade 4 teacher in Alberta can register for CAP and when they do an agricul- • Alberta Pork ture volunteer goes into their classroom and teaches the students about agricul- • Alberta Pulse Growers Commission ture. The volunteers in CAP all have unique presentations because each one • Alberta Veterinary Medical Association. focuses on their own specialty, such as cattle, chickens, environment etc., but in • Alberta Institute of Agrologists the end they have a common message – that agriculture plays a very important role in students daily lives. This initiative has been endorsed by the Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, and Minister of Education This one hour, free presentation uses story-telling, hands-on props and fun activi- ties to engage the children. To register as a volunteer with CAP please go to our website at www.classroomag- riculture.com and use the volunteers pull down menu or contact Don George (GM) When does CAP occur and how much TIME is involved? email [email protected], phone 587.877.2544. Presentations occur in March, April or May depending on the volunteers schedule (CAP is a very flexible program and we work around volunteers schedules.) Last year volunteers reported that about 5 hours was the norm for time dedicated to the CAP presentations, this includes preparation time. Red Deer County News - December 2016 14 conservation continued

ALUS CANADA LAUNCHES GROUNDBREAKING INITIATIVE

On November 4, The W. Garfield Weston Foundation and ALUS Canada proudly launched a significant new conservation effort known as ALUS Canada, a Weston Family Initiative, at The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto. The launch marks a generous $5 million investment from The W. Garfield Weston Foundation to help support ALUS Canada’s expansion across the country, as well as its New Acre™ Project, which will offer a distinct and exclusive opportunity for North Americans to invest in projects that help drive positive environmental change.

A recognized leader in sustainability, ALUS Canada is a national program dedicated to supporting farmers and ranchers who produce clean air, clean water, pollinator habitat and other ecosystem services to help service communities across Canada. ALUS Canada offers a unique method for improving the environment, allowing farmers and ranchers to steward their land in a way that benefits all Canadians. “We are delighted to announce today that The W. Garfield Weston Foundation will make a $5 million grant to ALUS Canada, an organization we have long supported,” said Tamara Rebanks, Chair of the Foundation’s Conservation Committee, at the November 4 press conference. We believe strongly in the ALUS model, which delivers tens of thousands of acres of natural habitats by engaging Canadian farm communities.”

What’s more, says Byron Gilvesy, ALUS’ launch of The New Acre™ Project, will allow individuals and organizations to contribute to the ALUS program and obtain quantifiable environmental outcomes in return. “It’s the first of its kind in North America,” said Gilvesy. “The New Acre™ Project will empower ordinary Canadians to make the difference they want to see in the world. If you want to have cleaner air, cleaner water and more biodiversity, you can make that happen by sponsoring New Acres.” The project will roll out over the coming months.

According to Red Deer County Conservation Coordinator Ken Lewis, “Red Deer County producers are benefiting tremendously from the support of the Weston Family for the ALUS Program. To date, $150,000 from the Weston Family has been allocated to Red Deer County farmers and ranchers through the ALUS Program.”

With 25,000 fairgoers, agricultural competitors and their farm animals providing an energetic backdrop, ALUS Canada’s CEO, Bryan Gilvesy, expressed how thrilled he was to partner with The W. Garfield Weston Foundation to help transform the Canadian landscape.

For more information on ALUS in Red Deer County, call Ken Lewis at 403.342.8653 or go to www.rdcounty.ca and search ‘Conservation’.

Red Deer County News - December 2016 15 planning & development PLANNING DIRECTOR SPEAKS AT AAMDC FALL CONFERENCE Planning and Development Director, Dave Dittrick, was invited to speak about regional planning at the Fall AAMDC Conference this year. On November 15, 2016, Dittrick addressed municipal elected officials from across the Province regarding this issue and provided Red Deer County’s perspective on the challenges faced. Overall, his presentation served to provide clarity about regional planning and how Red Deer County interacts with its municipal neighbours as well as the provincial government.

Currently, the Province does not have a regional plan for the Red Deer River Basin. In the absence of provincial policy, the County follows several guidelines that help stimulate positive relationships with neighbouring towns, cities, and counties. This includes providing funding support, shared services and regional partnerships; protecting farmland by only allowing growth at designated compact form growth nodes; and by being thoughtful of rural sprawl by encouraging conservation residential subdivisions. Red Deer County also has four Inter-municipal Development Plans in place, with a fifth plan being negotiated with the Town of Penhold at this time. These partnerships are with the City of Red Deer, and Towns of Bowden, Innisfail and Sylvan Lake. Additionally, the County provides services at no charge to the smaller communities of Bowden, Delburne and Elnora.

Dittrick also noted that there are some obstacles when it comes to regional planning within the Central Alberta region. A regional plan for the is still years away, and the Province’s approach to regional planning is unclear to rural municipalities. Rural municipalities have declining political influence due to the population shift to urban centres, which leads to the perception that the purpose of rurals is to serve as land banks for urban neighbours. However, in some instances, rurals are becoming competitors for attracting urban development – this is apparent in areas such as Gasoline Alley within Red Deer County.

In order to overcome these obstacles, Red Deer County has systematically engaged in entering agreements for funding capital, providing support for operating recreation facilities, and taking an active role in regional partnerships. Furthermore, the County has inventoried environmentally significant areas, protected farmland through land use policy and has preserved land for future growth of growing urban municipalities.

In the absence of provincial policy, rural municipalities recognize that they are doing regional planning in isolation. Moving forward Red Deer County will continue to lobby for density target requirements to justify urban expansion. Finally, it is hoped that the Province will complete its promised Regional Plans, and provide policy that clearly articulates and identifies farmland protection targets so that the agricultural community will continue to thrive and be sustainable for future generations. DEVELOPMENT PERMITS

Red Deer County News - December 2016 16 county highlights PREAUTHORIZED PAYMENT PLAN INFORMATION The Pre-Authorized Payment Plan is the preferred payment option. A property owner may pay the current year’s taxes on a monthly basis subject to the following conditions:

1. New participation in the program would not commence until January 1. You are eligible providing that all taxes, arrears, penalties and other costs are fully paid on or before December 15 of the preceding year.

2. Monthly installments to provide for payment of property taxes and local improvement taxes will be based on the following: • For the first five months of the current year, monthly payments equivalent to 1/12 of the previous year’s levy. • For the last 7 months of the current year, monthly payments equivalent to 1/7 of the balance of the tax levy for the current year after the deduction of the payments for the first 5 months.

You will still receive a Tax Notice with an amount due, but no payments outside the Monthly Tax Payment Plan are necessary.

Red Deer County News - December 2016 17 protective services MEET TRAVIS ALLRED: NEW FIRE INSPECTOR After eight and a half years with County Patrol, Travis Allred has made a transition from Peace Officer to the position of Red Deer County Fire Inspector. Travis has 18 years of industrial and municipal firefighting, nine of which have been here with Red Deer County.

Travis began his firefighting Career in 1998 in his home town. In 2001, he moved to to take employment as an Oilfield firefighter. It was Travis’ employment in this field that eventually brought him to Red Deer. Travis joined the Red Deer County team in February 2008. During his time here Travis has been employed as a Peace Officer as well as temporarily acting as the County’s Emergency Management Officer.

“While employed here at Red Deer County, I have had the opportunity to meet some excellent people and had some amazing experiences. I have always been passionate about firefighting and I look forward to continuing my career in this field.” - Travis Allred MEET JOHN BABBIT: NEW PEACE OFFICER

John joined the County’s Patrol department in September retiring from the RCMP with more than 26 years of service. Originally from Ontario John joined the RCMP and served in 5 different postings in BC, NWT and Alberta.

As a member of the RCMP John spent the majority of his service performing General Policing duties with time served in both the General Investigation Section and Highway Patrol Units. John’s wife Dionne is a Civilian Member of the RCMP working at the Operational Communications Centre in Red Deer and together they have 4 children, 3 boys and a daughter.

Outside of work John enjoys spending time with his family, running and has been involved in the sport of lacrosse for more than 45 years as a player, coach and referee which he did professionally in the National Lacrosse League for 6 seasons.

“The move to Red Deer County has been seamless and enjoyable. Everyone I have met has been very welcoming and it is easy to see why the County has it’s reputation as an excellent place to work.” - John Babbit FIRE SAFETY

1. Check your smoke alarm this holiday season 6. Use extension cords wisely

2. Don’t leave candles 7. Keep matches and lighters unattended out of sight and in places your kids can’t reach 3. Keep your Christmas tree well watered 8. Give space heaters space

4. Check all lights before 9. Stub your cigarettes out decorating and dispose of them safely

5. Always stay in the kitchen 10. Have a home fire escape while cooking plan

Red Deer County News - December 2016 18 protective services continued

PROTECTIVE SERVICES TRAINING EXERCISES

VEHICLE EXTRACTION COURSE

Several firefighters from Delburne and Red Deer County District seen here taking advantage of the mild fall weather for training purposes.

During the weekends of Oct 29-30 and Nov. 5-6 Delburne Fire hosted a Vehicle Extrication course.

The course is a part of an ongoing training regime implemented by Red Deer County. This type of joint training is conducted to ensure a consistent level of training and service throughout Red Deer County.

AIRPORT EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

Red Deer County Protective Services, Fire, Patrol, Tech Rescue, and Emergency Management worked together with AHS and EMS crews at the Red Deer Airport emergency training exercise on Saturday, November 19, 2016. A big thank you goes to the cadets and parents from the 24 Red Deer Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron who acted as casualties in the crash exercise.

Red Deer County News - December 2016 19 agriculture services

AGRI-TRADE 2016

Red Deer County Staff and Councillors were on hand at Agri-Trade at Westerner Park from November 9 to November 12 to share valuable information about the programs and services of the County.

INSECT/PEST RESULTS 2016 SCHOLARSHIP OFFERING FROM DR. DON CHURCH

Good news! Wheat midge remains low with zeros in all of the fields that were surveyed. Dr. Don Church has made available 2 scholarships for $2000 for Red Deer County students who choose to pursue a degree in Agriculture or Berta armyworm was very low in the area, it is important to keep Veterinary Medicine. The scholarship will be payable to the University the system going, however, so that we can catch the build up to of your choice for your tuition, once your university/college the next outbreak when it happens. acceptance and registration has been confirmed. Please forward Cabbage seedpod weevil has been showing up in the area for applications before June 30, 2017. several years although then numbers are still below threshold levels in a full set of sweeps. Next year the first in flower fields should be monitored closely. Make application with resume, academic status, student ID and community achievements. Apply All of the pea leaf weevil fields showed weevil damage at moderate levels, this means that pea producers should be using to Red Deer & District Community Foundation insecticide seed treatment. at 403.341.6911 or Dr. Don Church at [email protected] or 2016 Clubroot Inspections were targeted around high risk areas but no new Clubroot fields have been identified this year in RDC, [email protected] although numbers have risen in other areas of the province. Continued use of resistant varieties and long crop rotations will be imminent in keeping with this momentum moving forward.

Keep up the good work! Division 3 Councillor, Dr. Don Church

Red Deer County News - December 2016 20