ASSOCIATION OF MUNICIPALITIES

2005 Annual Report

SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 AMM MEMBERS

Urban Centres , LGD Clanwilliam Park , Town Coldwell Pembina Altona, Town , City Cornwallis Piney Arborg, Town Powerview, Village Daly Pipestone Beausejour, Town Rapid City, Town Dauphin Portage la Prairie Benito, Village Rivers, Town De Salaberry Reynolds , Village Riverton, Village Dufferin Rhineland Birtle, Town Roblin, Town East St. Paul Ritchot Boissevain, Town , Town Edward Riverside , Village Russell, Town Ellice Roblin Brandon, City Selkirk, City Elton Rockwood Carberry, Town Shoal Lake, Town Carman, Town Eriksdale Roland Snow Lake, Town Cartwright, Village Ethelbert Rosedale Somerset, Village Churchill, Town Fisher Rossburn Souris, Town Crystal City, Village Franklin Rosser St. Claude, Village Dauphin, City Russell St. Lazare, Village Deloraine, Town Gimli Saskatchewan St. Pierre-Jolys, Village Dunnottar, Village Glenella Shell River Ste. Anne, Town Elkhorn, Village Glenwood Shellmouth-Boulton Ste. Rose du Lac, Town Emerson, Town Grahamdale Shoal Lake Steinbach, City Erickson, Town Grandview Sifton Stonewall, Town Ethelbert, Village Grey Siglunes Swan River, Town , City Hamiota Silver Creek Teulon, Town Gilbert Plains, Town Hanover South Cypress , Town Gillam, Town Harrison South Norfolk Thompson, City Gladstone, Town Headingley Springfield Treherne, Town , Village Hillsburg St. Andrews Virden, Town Grand Rapids, Town Kelsey St. Clements , Village Grandview, Town La Broquerie St. Francois Xavier Wawanesa, Village Gretna, Town Lac du Bonnet St. Laurent Winkler, City Hamiota, Town Lakeview Stanley Beach, Town , Town Langford Ste. Anne Winnipeg, City Killarney, Town Lansdowne Ste. Rose , Village Lac du Bonnet, Town Lawrence Strathclair Lorne Strathcona , Town Rural , Town Louise Stuartburn MacGregor, Village Municipalities Macdonald Swan River Manitou, Town Albert McCreary Tache McCreary, Village Alexander Miniota Thompson Melita, Town Alonsa Turtle Mountain Minitonas, Town Archie Minto Victoria Minnedosa, Town Argyle Montcalm Victoria Beach Morden, Town Armstrong Morris Wallace Morris, Town Arthur Morton West St. Paul Mystery Lake, LGD Bifrost Mossey Westbourne , Town Birtle Mountain Whitehead Niverville, Town Blanshard North Cypress Whitemouth Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes, Brenda North Norfolk Whitewater Village Brokenhead Oakland Winchester Oak Lake, Town Cameron Ochre River Woodlands Pilot Mound, Town Cartier Odanah Woodworth

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS

President’s Message ...... 4

Executive Director’s Message ...... 5

AMM Board of Directors ...... 6

AMM Executive and Staff ...... 7

AMM External Committees ...... 8

Policy & Lobbying ...... 9

Legislative Overview ...... 9

Lobbying Highlights ...... 11

Member Services ...... 20

Events ...... 20

Communications ...... 22

MTCML ...... 24

Financial Statement ...... 26

MISSION STATEMENT

THE ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA MUNICIPALITIES IDENTIFIES AND ADDRESSES THE NEEDS AND CONCERNS OF ITS MEMBERS IN ORDER TO ACHIEVE STRONG AND EFFECTIVE MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT.

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 3 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

n behalf of the Board of Directors of the Association awaiting a provincial response and I anticipate some posi- Oof Manitoba Municipalities, I am pleased to present tive changes to the way disaster assistance is handled our 2004/2005 Annual Report. This report represents the in Manitoba. seventh year of the AMM and reflects the many activities I owe a great deal of thanks to the AMM Board of of our organization over the past year. Directors for their support over the past year. The AMM’s At our 2004 Annual Convention in Winnipeg, I had the successes could not be achieved without a strong, effective honour of being elected as President of the AMM. In Board of Directors and we are fortunate to have just that. I reflecting on the challenges of the past year I believe we, would like to thank the four outgoing directors Ð Steve as an organization representing Manitoba municipalities, Lupky, Albert Nabe, George Harbottle, and Harold Foster Ð have much to be proud of. for their commitment and dedication to the AMM during In terms of our policy and lobbying activities we made their tenure. At the same time, I welcome our four new significant progress on our number one issue, education directors Ð Alice Bourgouin, William Danylchuk, Robert taxation on property. We saw a total reduction of 50% in Misko, and Randy Sigurdson Ð for allowing their names to farmland property taxes, along with a continued reduction stand and taking on this increased responsibility. The posi- in the education support levy. While we had hoped for fur- tion of AMM Director is indeed a rewarding experience ther reductions, these are indeed positive steps that were and I am confident they will make a significant contribution only achieved due to a strong and united effort on the part to our Association. of our membership. We will continue to lobby for further Finally, and most important, I would like to thank you, reductions in the coming year. the membership of the AMM. Your support, encouragement It was also gratifying to see a number of important and advice throughout the year are appreciated, and we pieces of legislation come to pass over the past year, most salute all the good work you do to make your communities notably Bill 33: The Planning Act. The AMM is pleased better places to live. that our push to ensure that municipal councils maintain the Enjoy this annual report and the accomplishments we final say on land use planning decisions is reflected in have made together in 2004/2005. this Bill. With the interconnected Water Protection Act reg- ulations still being refined, the AMM promises Sincerely, to be ever vigilant to ensure local control over water man- agement planning, as well. Another very important issue for our members this year has been the impending Federal New Deal. As I write this Ron Bell report, we are very close to an agreement for Manitoba. President The New Deal will see $167.3 million in gas tax funds flow to Manitoba municipalities over the next five years. These funds will represent a very positive step toward addressing our infrastructure deficit and will certainly bring a measure of much needed relief to municipal bottom lines. The AMM broke some new ground this year, in the form of Lobby Days. Lobby Days were significant as they represented the first opportunity the AMM has had to take important municipal issues to all MLAs, not just the Provincial Cabinet. We were pleased to have the opportunity to share some of our most important issues, and furthermore to hear support for many of our positions. The AMM also initiated the Flooding and Wet Conditions in Manitoba regional meetings in late summer, and I would like to sincerely thank municipalities for their input and candour during these meetings. Your comments made us aware of some emerging issues and also pointed Manitoba Premier Gary Doer and AMM President out problems that we had already indicated existed. The Ron Bell at a recent infrastructure announcement. recommendations contained within the resulting report are

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 4 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE

am pleased to provide the Executive Director’s municipalities. These are outlined in more detail in I message for the seventh annual report of the the President’s message and in the rest of the annual Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM) report. On the financial side, the AMM and I would like to thank our Board of Directors for Municipalities Trading Company of Manitoba their support and guidance throughout the year, Limited (MTCML) continue to be strong, as shown including those Board members who are no longer in the financial statements in this report. The on our Board. MTCML increased its sales from $14 million to $16 To our staff at the AMM, I would sincerely like million this past year. As a result, the AMM was able to recognize the excellent work they do on behalf of to offer a rebate of $350,000 back to the membership. our Board and our membership. They are dedicated This brings the total rebates back to the membership and professional in the performance of their duties to $1.25 million over the past four years. We would and I could not do my job as Executive Director like to sincerely thank all municipalities for their without their support. continued use of our trading company. We would also like to express our appreciation and thanks to I would like to thank and acknowledge President our MTCML Official Suppliers. They offer our Val Turner and Executive Director Mel Nott of the membership excellent products and services at Manitoba Municipal Administrators’ Association discounted prices that are second to none. This past (MMAA) and all the members of MMAA for their year also saw the number of AMM Corporate valuable contribution to the AMM. We truly value Members increase from nine to fourteen, and we the partnership and excellent working relationship thank them for their support of the AMM. between the AMM and MMAA. We were also pleased to once again refund To the many other groups and organizations $918,000 back to municipalities out of our that worked with us throughout the past year, we insurance loss pool. This is as a result of two factors certainly appreciate their support on the various — the excellent risk management by municipalities issues we worked on together. These are critical and structure of our municipal insurance program. partnerships that assist the AMM in the work we do Our insurance program is a model across , on behalf of municipalities. offering broad coverage at one of the lowest rates Lastly, I would like to thank our membership for possible. their continued advice, support and encouragement. In terms of our events, this past year the AMM You have welcomed our Association into your was able to offer three first-rate and affordable offices on municipal visits, provided us with professional development courses for elected valuable feedback on issues facing municipalities officials. Our other events were very well attended, and you continue to serve your communities with with the 2004 Annual Convention in Winnipeg dedication. reaching an all-time attendance record for both the We hope you enjoy this annual report and we convention and the annual banquet. look forward to continuing to work on your behalf AMM communications continue to improve with in the coming year. our magazine and bulletins keeping our membership informed on various initiatives of the AMM. We Sincerely, also undertook a re-design of the AMM web site, which continues to increase in popularity. Launched this fall, the new web site is attractive, user-friendly, and contains a number of new features. Our policy and lobbying activities continue to Joe Masi make good progress on the major issues facing Executive Director

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 5 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Back Row, L to R: Front Row, L to R: Mayor Rene Maillard, Parklands Urban Director Councillor Richard Martel, Central Urban Director Councillor Doug Dobrowolski, Central Rural Director Mayor Shirley Kalyniuk, Mid-Western Urban Director Reeve Karen Caldwell, Western Rural Director Councillor Bert Lagimodiere, Northern Director Mayor Randy Sigurdson, Urban Director Mayor Lorne Boguski, Urban Vice-President Reeve Robert Misko, Parklands Rural Director Councillor Art Rempel, Eastern Urban Director Reeve Garry Wasylowski, Rural Vice-President Councillor Jae Eadie, City of Winnipeg Director Reeve Roger Wilson, Mid-Western Rural Director Reeve Alice Bourgouin, Interlake Rural Director Reeve William Danylchuk, Eastern Rural Director Mayor Stan Ward, Western Urban Director Mayor Ron Bell, President

AMM STAFF Back Row, L to R: (Pictured opposite on Page 7) Lynne Bereza, Communications Co-ordinator Patti De Baets, Finance Co-ordinator Front Row, L to R: Donna Belbin, Events Co-ordinator Joe Masi, Executive Director Erika Rempel, Administrative Assistant Linda Hargest, Director of Administration & Marketing Rachel Philippe, Community Services Policy Analyst Tyler MacAfee, Director of Policy & Communications Kim Spiers, Property Services Policy Analyst

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 6 EXECUTIVE & STAFF

AMM EXECUTIVE

Front Row: Joe Masi, Executive Director

Back Row: Lorne Boguski, Urban Vice-President Garry Wasylowski, Rural Vice-President Ron Bell, President

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 7 EXTERNAL COMMITTEES

President Ron Bell Mayor Randy Sigurdson ¥ Federation of Canadian Municipalities ¥ Household Hazardous Waste Working Group Board of Directors Councillor Rick Martel ¥ Infrastructure Council of Manitoba ¥ Certification of Water & Wastewater Plant ¥ Prairie Grain Roads Program Operators Review Committee Management Committee ¥ Manitoba Product Stewardship Board ¥ Provincial/Local Consultative Committee •“Tools for Change” Award Committee on Infrastructure Vice-President Lorne Boguski Reeve Robert Misko ¥ Hudson Bay Route Association ¥ Planning Excellence Awards Judging Panel ¥ Provincial/Local Consultative Committee Councillor Bert Lagimodiere on Infrastructure ¥ MTS Buried Cable Committee ¥ Large Urban Policing Committee ¥ Household Hazardous Waste Working Group Vice-President Garry Wasylowski ¥ Manitoba Airport Operators Committee ¥ Prairie Grain Roads Program ¥ Inter Utility Committee Management Committee ¥ RCMP Human Resources Advisory Committee ¥ Provincial/Local Consultative Committee Mayor Stan Ward on Infrastructure ¥ Manitoba Public Insurance ¥ Planning Act Review Vehicle Fire Advisory Committee ¥ Provincial Water Strategy Steering Committee ¥ Manitoba Product Stewardship Board Reeve Roger Wilson •“Tools for Change” Award Committee ¥ Burial Sites for Disposal of Livestock ¥ Building Officials Training Certificate Program Working Committee ¥ Building Standards Board ¥ Conservation Districts Commission Reeve Alice Bourgouin ¥ Conservation Agreements Board ¥ Manitoba Shoreline Erosion ¥ Manitoba Habitat Heritage Board Technical Committee ¥ Vision 2020 Steering Committee Councillor Art Rempel Councillor Doug Dobrowolski ¥ Community Investment Support Program ¥ Manitoba Disaster Appeals Board ¥ West Nile Virus Working Group ¥ Drainage Guidelines Committee •“Tools for Change” Working Group ¥ Livestock Facilitated Community ¥ Public Libraries Review Committee Consultation Program ¥ Local Authorities Election Act Review ¥ Office of the Fire Commissioner Advisory Committee Mayor Shirley Kalyniuk ¥ Manitoba Emergency Services ¥ MTS Buried Cable Committee College Advisory Committee ¥ Vision 2020 Steering Committee ¥ By-law Enforcement Working Group Reeve Karen Caldwell ¥ Rivers West Committee ¥ Bio Diesel Advisory Council ¥ Public Fire Safety & Prevention •“Tools for Change” Award Committee Advisory Committee ¥ Sport Manitoba Committee Mayor Rene Maillard •“Tools for Change” Working Group ¥ Manitoba Disaster Appeal Board ¥ AMM/Government Working Group •“Tools for Change” Working Group on Economic Development

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 8 POLICY & LOBBYING

ach year, the AMM monitors proposed legislation introduced in the Manitoba ELegislature. During this year’s session, the AMM presented or submitted comments to legislative committees or ministers responsible for the following bills:

Bill 22: The Water Protection Act — through by-laws, and for these by-laws to be September 13, 2004 effective they must be enforceable. Last September, the AMM made a presentation to The AMM participated on a stakeholder committee the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs that explored the options available to municipalities. around Bill 22: The Water Protection Act. The committee found that removing the initial stages of the by-law enforcement process from the The AMM’s presentation on this bill stressed its court system will greatly reduce the cost associated many positive attributes, including the focus on with enforcement. The AMM is pleased that Bill 36 watershed based planning, the creation of a water proposes to change the Summary Convictions Act to council, and the development of watershed quality allow municipalities to appoint screening officers to management zones. The AMM was also pleased oversee the initial stages of the process, which will that Bill 22 includes a clause guaranteeing that greatly reduce the costs of enforcement and free up there will be consultation in the development of criminal courts to deal with criminal matters. the regulations for this act. The AMM trusts that the The AMM did note that Copies of all of the AMM’s presentations changes brought about by the bill is visibly vague to the Legislative Standing Committees Bill 36 will address many and there is a lack of are available on the AMM web site at of the inadequacies of the detail as to how it will be current system and will implemented and who www.amm.mb.ca allow municipalities to will finance the enforce by-laws in a implementation. cost-effective manner. (Bill 36 received Royal Assent As of September 1, 2005, the regulations around on June 16, 2005). Bill 22 are still being refined and the bill has not received Royal Assent. The AMM will continue to Bill 25: The Workers Compensation follow any amendments and continue to participate Amendment Act — June 2, 2005 in the consultation process. June 2, 2005 saw the AMM attend the Standing Committee on Human Resources to present on Bill Bill 36: The Courts Administration 25: The Workers Compensation Amendment Act. Improvement Act — May 31, 2005 Manitoba municipalities have for years urged the On May 31, 2005, the AMM attended the Standing Provincial Government to review how volunteer Committee on Legislative Affairs to make a firefighters are treated under the Workers presentation on Bill 36: The Courts Administration Compensation Act. The primary concern is that Improvement Act. part-time, volunteer firefighters are not treated In this bill, the section of most importance to equally under the current legislation when it comes municipalities is the changes to the Summary to diseases caused by providing firefighting services. Convictions Act. Municipal governments are charged In many communities, it is the part-time firefighters

Legislative Overview Legislative with the responsibility of administering local affairs that provide the firefighting services and face the

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 9 POLICY & LOBBYING

hazardous situations. For this reason, the AMM respond since it is an explanation of Provincial envi- urged the Provincial Government to add part-time ronmental regulations that is required. The Provincial firefighters to the coverage offered to full-time fire- Government must be accountable for its environmen- fighters, and was very satisfied to see coverage tal regulations and ensure the transparency of the extended under this Bill. The AMM has begun process by attending public hearings, just as munici- discussions with the Provincial Department to look pal councils are present to defend their decisions. at the costs associated with extending coverage and With the exception of the key issues noted during the the best ways to balance the costs for municipalities. AMM’s presentation, the AMM is generally support- The AMM is also pleased to see that Bill 25 includes ive of Bill 33 and looks forward to many of the the allowance for private top-ups of WCB benefits improvements to long-term planning that will be for part-time firefighters. Many municipalities simply achieved by this legislation. (Bill 33 received Royal cannot afford full-time fire departments and in these Assent on June 16, 2005). cases, they rely on volunteers to provide local fire- fighting services. Bill 25 also proposes to remove the Bill 29: The Municipal Councils and maximum earnings clause and the AMM supports School Boards Elections Act — this as well, as this will help attract volunteers and June 6, 2005 guarantee that those who make a commitment to the The AMM, along with the Manitoba Municipal community will not be penalized financially should Administrators Association (MMAA), the City of an accident occur. Winnipeg and others, participated on a review com- Volunteers are the life-blood of many communities mittee that explored alternatives to the current, anti- and it is important that they are compensated to the quated Act. Bill 29 is the result of the work of this fullest should an accident occur. The AMM is committee. The new Bill brings the Act into the 21st pleased to see measures in place that extend compen- century and allows municipalities greater flexibility sation for occupational diseases to part-time, volun- in administering elections. The language in the Bill is teer firefighters and that allow for private top-ups easier to understand and will make the election above WCB coverage for volunteer firefighters. (Bill process easier and less cumbersome for municipali- 25 received Royal Assent on June 9, 2005). ties. (Bill 29 received Royal Assent on June 16, 2005). Bill 33: The Planning Act — June 6, 2005 On June 6, 2005, the AMM made a presentation to the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs on ther bills passed during this session Bill 33, The Planning Act, a crucial piece of legisla- Oof interest to the AMM included tion for municipalities. Bill 8: The Manitoba Council on Aging Act, While Bill 33 incorporates many of the key issues Bill 35: The Capital Region Partnership Act, municipalities had raised with the Province, the Bill 37: The Municipal Assessment AMM did raise a number of concerns during their Amendment Act, and presentation. One of the biggest issues the AMM stressed is to have the Provincial Government avail- Bill 44: The Budget Implementation and able and accountable for the environmental decisions Tax Statutes Amendment Act 2005 — it makes. The AMM made it clear to the Province of particular interest to municipalities as it that when technical questions arise, it is more appro- creates the new Building Manitoba Fund. Legislative Overview Legislative priate for Department of Conservation staff to

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 10 POLICY & LOBBYING

s part of the AMM’s yearly lobbying process, the AMM meets with individual cab- Ainet ministers to bring forward important municipal issues pertaining to each provincial department. At each meeting, the AMM discusses areas of key concern involving municipalities and that minister’s departmental portfolio. Following are some of the concerns that the AMM highlighted during this year’s ministerial meetings:

Advanced Education & Training Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives The AMM met with Minister Diane McGifford on The AMM raised the issue of long-term options for March 30. The AMM highlighted the need for local deadstock disposal with Minister Rosann Wowchuk courses for level 3 and 4 training for water and waste- on April 20th and options were discussed including water operators, as well as the need for a higher intake composting, incineration, and rendering for such of students to Manitoba’s medical school. things as bio-diesel. The expansion of renewable energy sources was also highlighted as a method of diversifying Manitoba’s rural economy. The policy papers developed for each The AMM urged the Province to continue to work with meeting are available on the AMM the Federal Government to provide assistance to those web site at www.amm.mb.ca impacted by the current agricultural crisis and to help ease the burden on all Manitoba communities. The Conservation AMM also urged the Provincial Government to increase support for the Rural Economic Development Initiative The AMM raised the issue of household hazardous (REDI). Finally, the AMM discussed concerns that there waste and electronic waste with Minister Stan is a need for Provincial Government representation at Struthers on January 26, along with the need to clean public hearings for environmental regulation and land up contaminated sites. The AMM also indicated use regulation to respond to inquiries. support for the new Efficiency Manitoba agency and urged the Province to ensure that those efficiency and UPDATE: In July, the City/RM of Dauphin waste reduction programs that are working continue to received Federal/Provincial/Municipal funding have the resources needed to operate effectively. for an industrial wastewater treatment facility, The Manitoba Municipal Efficiency Program (MMEP) part of the necessary infrastructure for the was developed to support municipal governments as operation of the Rancher’s Choice Beef they reduce operating and maintenance costs by identi- Co-operative. On July 15, the U.S. border fying and implementing energy and water efficiency reopened to live Canadian cattle. measures in their facilities. The AMM urged the Province to contribute financially to the MMEP Culture, Heritage & Tourism to assist municipalities to move forward with the implementation of the recommendations. The AMM met with Minister Eric Robinson on February 24 to encourage the Province to increase funding to recreation commissions and participate in a UPDATE: The Province has since committed tri-partite national recreational infrastructure program. funding to the MMEP and the project The Community Places Program is another key is now underway. resource and the AMM asked the Province for greater

Lobbying Highlights Lobbying funding for this program.

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 11 POLICY & LOBBYING

The AMM also raised the need for a review of The Public Libraries Act. Municipalities want to ensure UPDATE: There has been an increase in that citizens can access up-to-date and technological housing assistance funding for several information services through libraries, regardless of communities. Arborg, Dauphin, Morden where they reside. Therefore, the AMM also urged the and Woodlands all received funds for key Province to allow for the designation of parts of affordable housing projects. municipalities to regional library districts. Health UPDATE: The AMM will be participating in the At a meeting with Minister Tim Sale on February 24, Public Libraries Review Committee, and working the AMM suggested that Regional Health Authority with the Province to demonstrate the municipal (RHA) boards should be elected and that a review of challenges of providing library services. the RHA structure is required to achieve greater accountability and transparency. The Province must Education, Citizenship & Youth also undertake a targeted plan to attract and retain physicians and ensure that the entry process for Removing education taxes from all classes of property international physicians is efficient and expedient. has been the AMM’s top priority this year. A meeting with Minister Peter Bjornson on March 24 discussed The Province can also ensure local access to the urgent need to resolve this issue. Property owners physicians by making medical training more are supporting a substantial portion of education accessible to Manitoba students. The Province must services in Manitoba, resulting in a highly inequitable also take on additional fiscal responsibility for key system. The AMM was expecting to see further aspects of health care, by covering the costs of the reductions in the Province’s 2005 Budget, however additional health services associated with West Nile this did not materialize. The rebate on farmland is also virus, including surveillance and mosquito control. a concern since it is overly administrative and can be Manitobans are also facing additional costs when cancelled at any time. Since the Province has more they are transported outside the local RHA to access resources than municipalities, it should reduce the specialized medical services. Concessions must be education tax burden on property owners through a made for rural and remote areas that do not have local five-year strategic plan. access to specialized services. Family Services & Housing Healthy Living & Seniors The AMM met with Minister Christine Melnick on The AMM met with Minister Theresa Oswald on June March 30 to raise the issue of province-wide access to 29 to raise the need for increased funding allocations affordable housing. The Province should increase for recreational programs. The final report of the attention to the affordable housing needs of more Healthy Kids, Healthy Futures Task Force includes communities, which could be achieved through the five recommendations that support improved funding expansion of the Neighbourhoods Alive! Program. for recreational facilities. The Province should act on The AMM is concerned that this funding currently this commitment to healthy life-styles, and allocate flows only to Winnipeg, Brandon and Thompson, and additional funding to recreational infrastructure. additional funding would allow program benefits to be As Minister Oswald is also the Minister responsible appreciated in other communities. Municipalities are for Seniors, the AMM raised the need to provide prepared to work with other orders of government on programming and housing tailored to the specific housing issues, however, housing is a federal and needs of an aging population. The Province should Lobbying Highlights Lobbying provincial responsibility and funding should come increase the resources available to seniors independent primarily from these sources. living programs and seniors housing initiatives.

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 12 POLICY & LOBBYING

Industry, Economic Development Province is working with municipalities to address and Mines alternative by-law enforcement and the AMM is supportive of this process. The AMM met with Minister Jim Rondeau on January 18 to highlight the importance of supporting A further issue is the task of providing court security Manitoba’s mining industry through programs such as and transporting prisoners to and from court. An the Mineral Exploration Assistance Program and the alternative to RCMP escorts is for Manitoba Sheriff Manitoba Prospectors Assistance Program, and also Services to perform this duty in all municipalities. This the need to clean-up the numerous contaminated sites would concentrate RCMP resources on other municipal across Manitoba. The Province needs to commit to priorities and the Province should support this change. the Petroleum Site Remediation Initiative (PSRI) to UPDATE: The RCMP released the ‘D’- Direction facilitate the clean-up of abandoned petroleum tanks. Report, which articulates a plan for strategic The AMM also raised the importance of continuing changes to policing in Manitoba. Implementation investments in increasing Manitoba’s slaughter should be complete in the spring of 2006 and capacity, such as in the Rancher’s Choice slaughter the AMM will be tracking the effectiveness of facility, and developing a long-term strategy. RCMP service adjustments. Justice Manitoba Public Insurance Corporation On February 21, the AMM met with Minister Gord Mackintosh to raise concerns with the increasing cost As Minister Mackintosh is also charged with the of police services. Municipal budgets cannot cover the administration of The Manitoba Public Insurance increasing RCMP salaries along with the additional Corporation Act, the AMM raised the issue of costs of police services. The Province should commit inadequate compensation rates for municipal fire additional funding to police services to ensure access departments responding to vehicle fires and to effective safety and crime prevention services. accidents. The Province must establish a fair rate of compensation so that municipal fire departments The AMM also raised concerns with municipal by-law do not absorb the costs of responding to road enforcement. Municipalities should gain the authority emergencies. The AMM also urged the Province to hire contractors to enforce municipal by-laws. The to re-establish the appeals committee and ensure openness and accountability for compensation claims.

UPDATE: The appeals committee has since met to discuss claims.

Labour & Immigration Minister Nancy Allan met with the AMM on February 7 to discuss several longstanding issues. The AMM raised the need for the Province to absorb the costs associated with water bombers when required by municipalities. As well, the AMM highlighted two major issues with The Workers Compensation Act and its treatment of volunteer firefighters. Further concerns included the need for MPIC policies to recognize the

Lobbying Highlights Lobbying The Province agreed to cover water bomber costs Province’s expectation that municipal fire departments for municipalities. provide traffic control. This additional role should be

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 13 POLICY & LOBBYING

incorporated into MPIC compensation rates for UPDATE: The Vision 2020 Report has been responding to motor vehicle accidents. Additionally, released and the AMM recently highlighted there is concern for fires on Crown lands since revenue generated by the Crown land cannot cover the our concerns with the Report to the municipal costs associated with firefighting. Province. Water Stewardship UPDATE: The Province agreed to cover water bomber costs for municipalities. The review of Minister Steve Ashton met with the AMM on the 25th of January to discuss water-related issues. Concerns The Workers Compensation Act was also with the Water Protection Act legislation were completed. Provincial legislation now allows highlighted, notably the lack of specificity in how the workers to obtain additional insurance to legislated ideas and requirements will be implemented cover the remaining 10 per cent of net and the financial underpinnings of these changes. income, without a reduction in Workers The AMM pressed the issue of not downloading the Compensation benefits. The legislation also financial responsibilities to municipalities. recognizes that volunteer firefighters often The AMM also raised the need for increased funding respond to the same number of incidents as for Manitoba’s growing number of conservation their full-time counterparts and appropriate districts, and the need to increase funding and staffing changes to provisions for collateral benefits to address drainage issues. Drainage is a key component and occupational diseases are now in place. of the Manitoba Water Strategy. As was demonstrated across the province last summer, an inefficient drainage system can have devastating impacts. Transportation and Government Services As was demonstrated across the province The AMM met with Minister Ron Lemieux on January last summer, an inefficient drainage system 26 to discuss transportation-related concerns. Of can have devastating impacts. importance was the need to produce the final Vision 2020 report and for the Province to take action once the plan is in place. The AMM also raised the The AMM also raised concerns with the certification of importance of reinstating the Manitoba Airport Capital water and waste water plant operators. The deadline of Assistance Program (MACAP). The cancellation of the September, 2006 for certification has been an issue as Bridge Co-operative Program is another concern that the Province does not have the staff or programming in was raised. place to train and certify operators. Additionally, the AMM raised the concern with the costs for the course The AMM discussed the need to adequately address fees and the additional examination fee. Manitoba’s increasing transportation infrastructure The final issue raised was with the Drinking Water deficit, estimated at $3.4 billion. A related concern is Safety regulations, and the AMM stressed that costs that funding that has been allocated to this Department and responsibilities should not be downloaded to for highway construction and repair is being returned municipalities. to general revenues at the end of each year if it is unused. The AMM proposed that this money should be UPDATE: Since this meeting, the Water used in the year allocated or held over to the following Protection Act has been passed and the regu- construction season. The final concern discussed was Lobbying Highlights Lobbying lation concerning the Water Quality the need for sufficient funding for highway repairs in urban centers. Management Zones has been proposed.

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 14 POLICY & LOBBYING

OTHER DEPARTMENTS Finance Intergovernmental Affairs & Trade On January 26, 2005 the AMM presented its annual budget submission to Minister of Finance Greg The AMM traditionally has had a close working Selinger. The AMM focussed on its major issues relationship with the Department of Inter- during the meeting, including the need to remove governmental Affairs and meets with the Minister education funding from property, water related issues, of Intergovernmental Affairs and Trade on a regular and the cancellation of several important programs basis. This year saw a new Minister in that portfolio, such as the Manitoba Airport Capital Assistance Scott Smith, and the AMM had the opportunity to Program and the Bridge Co-operative Program. meet with him on a couple of occasions to raise several important municipal issues including: UPDATE: On Budget Day 2005, the AMM was disappointed that there were no further 1 The Removal of Education Tax From Property reductions in education taxes on property 2 Federal New Deal for Municipalities beyond those already announced. The AMM was also disappointed that there was no 3 Planning Act increase in funding for the Community Places Program, or for environmental enforcement 4 The new Building Manitoba Fund officers for new planning and water legislation. 5 Transfer Payments to municipalities The AMM was pleased, however, to see a $2.5 million increase to Water Stewardship 6 Neighbourhoods Alive! Program initiatives, a $6.8 million increase for the REDI With Scott Smith also being the Minister responsible grant program, an additional $16 million in the for emergency measures, the AMM has had the highways capital budget, increased library opportunity to raise Disaster Financial Assistance grants, a commitment to more medical school Funding, and general issues with him. spaces and 40 new police officers.

he AMM often meets with various other groups and organizations to discuss areas Tof shared concern. Some of the organizations the AMM met with last year include: Manitoba Hydro Manitoba Telecom Services RCMP Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce Southern Chiefs Organization Keystone Agricultural Producers Manitoba Fire Chiefs Manitoba Association of School Trustees Lobbying Highlights Lobbying Manitoba Hydro President Bob Brennan Manitoba Conservation Districts with AMM President Ron Bell Association

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 15 POLICY & LOBBYING

wo major issues were raised at each provincial minister meeting this year — land use Tand water resource planning and education funding. A third issue, a Federal New Deal for municipalities, was a main focus of the AMM’s federal lobbying for 2004/05.

Land use and water resource planning A movement towards watershed-based Planning issues were at the forefront over the past year planning represents a significant change with an extensive review of The Planning Act and and this will certainly impact municipalities. ongoing work on new water legislation for Manitoba. Land use and water resource planning are very impor- tant for municipalities since each has wide-ranging establishment of Water Quality Management Zones and impacts on the way municipalities function and the the AMM intends to continue actively participating in development that occurs within their boundaries. Both the consultation process to raise municipal concerns. types of planning ensure that municipalities are imple- Although there is widespread support for protecting menting a long-term approach and considering the Manitoba’s water supply, the manner in which this is impacts of current actions on the future of their com- accomplished could have a substantial impact on munities. municipal resources. After the Provincial Government decided not to pro- Along with several active resolutions on both water ceed with Bill 40 in November of 2004, there was a and land use planning, the AMM decided to initiate renewed focus on the Planning Law Review. The further discussion on these issues at the 2005 Mayors, Technical Advisory Committee reconvened in Reeves and CAOs meetings. Throughout these ses- December 2004 to continue the review of The sions, municipalities consistently raised the need for Planning Act. Through representation on this commit- Provincial Government representation at public hear- tee, the AMM sought to ensure that significant authori- ings and the need to clarify aspects of The Water ty remained at the local level and that municipal coun- Protection Act. cils maintained the final say on land use planning deci- Based on this feedback, the AMM will continue to sions. When Bill 33: The Planning Act was introduced push for greater representation from Department of in April of 2005, the AMM was satisfied with many Conservation staff at public hearings to discuss envi- aspects of the legislation, including the retention of the ronmental regulations. In addition, as regulations for conditional use process for livestock operations. The The Water Protection Act are refined, the AMM will key outstanding issue is that the Provincial work to clarify what will be expected of municipalities. Government must establish a presence at public hear- ings to discuss pertinent environmental regulations. Education Funding from Property At the same time, the Provincial Government was Education funding remained the number one concern working on a highly interconnected piece of legislation: for municipalities in 2005, as the current model of tax- The Water Protection Act. Much of the existing concern ation is not sustainable and a new taxation model is for this legislation is due to the lack of detail regarding needed. The AMM was pleased to see the Province how it will be implemented. A movement toward recognize the importance of this issue with the 33% watershed based planning represents a significant reduction in farmland property taxes in 2004, a further change and this will certainly impact municipalities. reduction to 50% in 2005, and a $30 million reduction However, the extent of this impact remains unclear. The in the Education Special Levy (ESL). However,

Lobbying Highlights Lobbying regulations are just beginning to be developed with the

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 16 POLICY & LOBBYING

further action is required since municipal property A New Deal for Municipalities taxes should be used to fund strictly municipal servic- The AMM was pleased with the Federal Government’s es, and a complete removal of education funding from February, 2005 announcement outlining the details of all property classes is needed. the New Deal funding for municipalities. The AMM strongly supports the need for high quality The focus for the remainder of the AMM’s fiscal year education in all areas of the Province, yet maintains was working with the Provincial Government and that other sources of Provincial revenue are more other stakeholders to finalize a New Deal agreement appropriate than property taxation to fund education. for Manitoba. AMM’s priority was to get the $167.3 While every citizen should contribute to education million allotted for Manitoba out to communities in funding, this does not occur under the current regres- the most efficient manner possible over the next five sive system of property taxation. years. The AMM has always advocated a per capita The AMM believes relief is needed on all property method of distribution, which would see all Manitoba classes, as at present, there is an unfair reliance on municipalities share equally in the funding based on property owners to fund an education system that con- population. tributes so much to the prosperity of Manitoba. The Since the announcement, the majority of Canadian AMM will continue to urge the Provincial Government provinces have signed agreements to get their share of to create a 5-year plan that results in the total removal the funding flowing. At time of printing, Manitoba had of education tax from all classes of property. not yet signed an agreement.

As the issue of education tax on property continued to gain momentum for AMM members, the need to communicate that issue to Manitoba citizens also increased. To that end, the AMM Board of Directors drafted a letter explaining the education tax issue. AMM encouraged member municipalities to send this letter to their citizens, either on its own or in their 2005 tax bill. The goal was to inform and educate Manitobans about the issue, as well as suggest ways they too can lobby the Provincial Government to work toward a solution. Along with the letter, the AMM prepared a template to help mem- bers illustrate the percentage of education tax their residents are paying on their property tax bill. AMM explained that showing the tax breakdown visually in this way is likely to be more easily under- stood by residents and will help them to better understand the sig- nificance of the education tax portion of their tax bill. Many AMM members used these materials to communicate the education tax issue to their residents. To increase the reach of this message even further, the AMM also ran the letter as an advertise- ment in the Brandon Sun (July 15/05) and, with support from the City of Winnipeg, in the Winnipeg Free Press (July 16/05). AMM Education Tax Ad, Lobbying Highlights Lobbying Winnipeg Free Press — July 16, 2005

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 17 POLICY & LOBBYING

Lobby Days — April 19 & 20, 2005 he AMM has a mutually respectful relationship Twith government and is in a unique position to “...many on Broadway agreed have the opportunity to meet with each Provincial that education funding needs to be Cabinet Minister individually each year as well as the removed from property.” Premier and the entire Cabinet. Not only are top departmental issues raised at each meeting, but general It was also important to provide a municipal perspec- issues also, such as the need to remove education tive to the MLAs on the issues surrounding planning funding from property. While the AMM is confident in Manitoba. With revisions to the Planning Act intro- that the Provincial Cabinet is aware of top municipal duced this legislative session, and the Water Protection issues, government is more than just Cabinet and this Act still under debate at the time of the meetings, it is why the AMM undertook a new initiative this year was crucial for MLAs to understand the implications — Lobby Days. Following an initiative developed by this legislation will have on municipalities and the the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, the AMM need to ensure responsibilities, especially financial set up meetings with the ‘backbench’ Members of the responsibilities, are not downloaded to municipalities. Manitoba Legislative Assembly to raise three top municipal issues. The issues were the need to remove The AMM also took the opportunity to clarify our education funding from property, water and land use position on the Federal New Deal and the need to get planning, and the New Deal for municipalities. the funding out to municipalities quickly. The AMM was pleased to hear near unanimous support for a per During Lobby Days the AMM met with every capita distribution formula for Manitoba’s share of the Conservative and Liberal MLA individually and with New Deal for municipalities. both the NDP Rural and Northern Caucus and Winnipeg Caucus. The AMM was pleased to hear that There is no doubt that Lobby Days was a success. The many on Broadway agreed that education funding AMM will not only be looking at ways to improve the needs to be removed from property, as this has been a process for next year, but also for other new and inno- top issue for the AMM for several years. There is no vative ways to ensure the municipal agenda is known doubt that everyone in the Legislature now knows the by all in government. AMM’s position on this issue.

Members of the AMM Board of Directors talk with AMM Board of Directors meet Lobbying Highlights Lobbying Stuart Murray, Leader of the Official Opposition with the NDP caucus during 2005 Lobby Days

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 18 POLICY & LOBBYING

Flood Damage Meetings — August 12-22, 2005 n late summer, 2005, the AMM made the decision I to hold a series of regional meetings across the province to help gauge the extent of the damages from this year’s extraordinary spring and summer flooding. These wet conditions have had a very real and serious impact on many communities in the province and the AMM felt it was necessary to hear first hand from community leaders what is needed to help. There are a number of permanent provincial and federal program in place to deal with wet conditions, and the AMM wanted to hear how well these were working and if gaps existed between what these Head table at the Elie Regional Flood Meeting. programs are willing to cover and what is really L. to R.: Joe Masi, AMM; Ron Bell, AMM; David Rolfe, KAP; needed this year. Garry Wasylowski, AMM; Doug Dobrowolski, AMM; The meetings were held in five different areas of the and Rick Martel, AMM. province, all of which were greatly impacted by the wet conditions: Feedback was obtained during the meetings on several Aug. 12, 2005 — Hamiota specific topics: Agriculture, Disaster Financial Aug. 12, 2005 — Deloraine Assistance (DFA), Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO), and Water Related Issues. Aug. 18, 2005 — Lockport The AMM prepared a report upon completion of Aug. 22, 2005 — Elie the meetings, entitled “Report on Flooding and Wet Aug. 22, 2005 — Letellier Conditions in Manitoba.” This report included The AMM also held a conference call with the recommendations and was forwarded to both the Council from the RM of Kelsey in , Provincial and Federal Governments. It is available to hear the concerns in that region. on the AMM web site at: WWW.AMM.MB.CA

The AMM thanks Keystone Agricultural Producers (KAP) and several local MLAs for finding the time in this difficult year to attend each of these meetings to hear about the needs of Manitobans. AMM Regional Flood Meeing, Hamiota, Manitoba Lobbying Highlights Lobbying

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 19 MEMBER SERVICES

he AMM hosts four main events for our members each year, as well as series T of high quality professional development opportunities. AMM Annual Convention Resolutions Summary Winnipeg Convention Centre — November 22 to 25, 2004 Number of Resolutions 60 Number of Late Resolutions 2 The 6th Annual Convention of the AMM saw delegates enjoy a series of round Total Number of Resolutions 62 table discussions, workshops, plenary sessions, Number carried 56 and guest speakers. Number defeated 5 Number withdrawn 1 Three keynote speakers were featured: Bob Gray, George Cuff, and Alvin Law. Delegates also had the opportunity to attend workshops on various issues of interest to municipalities, including the status of Lake Intergovernmental Affairs & Trade Minister Scott Winnipeg, the review of the RCMP Policing Model in Smith chaired the 2004 Ministerial Forum. He was Manitoba, an overview of the Manitoba Floodway joined by Premier Gary Doer and Ministers Oswald, Expansion Authority, an introduction to the new McGifford, Mackintosh, Chomiak, Bjornson, Crown Corporation Travel Manitoba, the need for Struthers, Robinson, Lemieux, Wowchuk, Ashton, healthy communities, Manitoba’s Ground Search Rondeau, and Sale. Questions fielded by the Ministers and Rescue system, and effective local government were focused on health, transportation, water, leadership. education funding and policing issues. Speakers for this year’s Convention included the Election results — AMM 2004 Annual Convention: Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs & Trade, Scott President — Ron Bell, Mayor, Town of Birtle Smith, Leader of the Manitoba Official Opposition, Vice President, Rural — Garry Wasylowski, Reeve, Stuart Murray, President of the Federation of Canadian RM of Armstrong Municipalities, Ann MacLean, Leader of the Manitoba Vice-President, Urban — Lorne Boguski, Mayor, Liberal Party, Dr. Jon Gerrard, and The Honourable Town of Roblin Reg Alcock, MP Winnipeg South. The AMM also offered two plenary sessions focussing on the Federal Municipal Officials Seminar (MOS) and New Deal and Education Funding. Trade Show February 28 and March 1, 2005 This event, held each year in Brandon’s Keystone Centre, provides members with an opportunity to participate in education and policy related workshop sessions. Over 800 municipal officials attended work- shops on topics such as creating healthy communities, promoting older Manitobans, school division budgets, immigration and community planning, and RCMP resources. As well, plenary sessions were offered on property tax in Canada, the Canada-Manitoba Infrastructure Program, and the Planning Act.

AMM Events In conjunction with MOS, the MTCML holds its largest Intergovernmental Affairs & Trade Minister Scott Smith trade show event of the year. This one-day trade show is chaired the 2004 Ministerial Forum. held the first day of MOS and included over 100 booths.

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 20 MEMBER SERVICES

Mayors, Reeves and CAOs Meetings March 14 to 23, 2005 Held over a two-week period in each of the AMM’s seven districts, these meetings are used to enhance communication between the AMM and its members. This year, a primary issue discussed was land use and water resource planning. The 2005 Mayors, Reeves and CAO’s Meetings took place in Alonsa, Treherne, Virden, St. Lazare, Grand Rapids, Teulon, and La Broquerie. June District Meetings June 13 to 23, 2005 2005 Mayors, Reeves and CAOs Meetings Also held in each of the AMM’s seven districts, June District Meetings offer members educational workshops and presentations on current policy issues. AMM Education Program Resolutions passed at June Districts are brought AMM members were offered several high quality forward to the AMM Annual Convention. Every sec- professional development sessions this year. ond year each district also has the opportunity to elect October’s “Whose on First Base?” and March’s its Director on the AMM Board. As this past year was “Decision-Making for Councils and Boards” were an election year, four new directors were elected. held in Portage la Prairie and both had attendance of This year’s June District Meetings saw 162 of 199 over 100 people. May’s “Communicating When municipalities represented. They were held in The Pas, Strangling Isn’t an Option” was held in Winnipeg Roblin, Gladstone, Whitemouth, Fraserwood, Winkler, and was also well-attended by over 100 municipal and Glenboro. officials.

Outgoing AMM Directors The AMM said farewell to four directors dur- ing June District Meetings this year, includ- ing: ¥ Steve Lupky, Councillor, Town of Arborg — Interlake Urban Director ¥ Harold Foster, Reeve, RM of Bifrost — Interlake Rural Director ¥ George Harbottle, Reeve, RM of Alexander — Eastern Rural Director ¥ Albert Nabe, Reeve, RM of Shell River — This year’s June District Meetings saw Parklands Rural Director 162 of 199 municipalities represented. AMM Events

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 21 MEMBER SERVICES

ommunications was once again a high priority for the AMM Board and staff Cthis year, with some new initiatives developed to complement our existing communication materials.

Re-design of AMM Web site he AMM web site Tcontinues to gain popularity as illustrated in the graph below. Monthly visits to the web site increased by 35% over the previous year, from an average of 4,600 visitors per month in 2003/2004 to an aver- age of 7,100 visitors per month in 2004/2005. Due to this increase in usage, combined with the desire to remain page, an expanded Trading Company section, an fresh and relevant to our members, the AMM events calendar, and an interactive registration form undertook a comprehensive redesign process. This for AMM education sessions. Further improvements redesign resulted in a sleek, professional web site that took place in several existing sections, including the offers a winning combination of existing and new ele- Board of Directors area, in the Active Resolutions ments in an easy-to-navigate format. Some of the new page, and in the Municipal Leader Magazines section. features added include a media room, a classified ads Bi-Weekly News Bulletin Web Site Stats The AMM’s bi-weekly news bulletin is a popular and efficient way to deliver timely information on AMM issues. A total of 22 bulletins were distributed last year, to almost 350 AMM members, MLAs, Cabinet Ministers, and fraternal organizations. An additional 250 bulletins are sent to recipients who subscribe using a form posted on the AMM web site. This figure includes 54 new subscribers for the reporting year.

Communications WWWWWW.AMM.MB.CA.AMM.MB.CA

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 22 MEMBER SERVICES

Media Relations Media Stats—2004/2005 The AMM continually strives to enhance our relation- ship with local media. Last year, the AMM Media mentions 402 was mentioned in Manitoba media over 400 times, an Issues discussed 50 increase of 25% over the previous year. Top issues dis- Interviews w/President Bell 151 cussed with the media were: Releases/advisories issued 21 ¥Gas tax distribution/new deal funding Media kits distributed 83 ¥Education taxation on property % of hits Ð Winnipeg 21% ¥Flood damage % of hits Ð Rural Manitoba 79% ¥The Planning Act ¥The Water Protection Act The Municipal Leader AMM President Ron Bell was quoted in the media The AMM’s quarterly magazine, with a distribution of well over 100 times last year. Some of the media inter- 1,600, continued to focus on a wide range of timely views granted were a result of the 20+ news releases issues. In addition to a number of regular features each and media advisories distributed throughout the year, issue has some special reports and articles: while others were a product of increased awareness of the AMM and our lobbying efforts. The re-design and Fall 2004 offered a special feature distribution of an updated media kit assisted in this entitled “Water in Manitoba”. It increased awareness. recapped the 2nd session of the The AMM also enjoyed extensive media coverage of Manitoba Legislature and offered its major events, as well as before and after the release a preview of the 6th Annual AMM of the provincial and federal budgets. Convention. Winter 2005 included a Convention review, a preview of the Municipal Officials Seminar & Trade Show, an update on education funding, and introduced readers to the AMM executive. Spring 2005 featured a special report on “Transportation”, as well as the first annual Municipal Innovation Award winner and Provincial Budget 2005. A recap of the 2005 MOS & Trade Show was also included. Summer 2005 introduced a brand new series—Diversity in Municipal Politics. This issue focussed on women in AMM President Ron Bell is interviewed politics. AMM’s first annual Lobby by CBC on Budget Day 2005. Days were also given extensive

Communications coverage.

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 23 MEMBER SERVICES

he Municipalities Trading Company of Manitoba Ltd. (MTCML) allows AMM members T to purchase products and services at lower prices through the power of bulk buying. This year was another great success. Sales remained consistent and the stable pool of official suppliers continued to change and grow. The products sales have consistently remained between 6.5 and 7.4 million dollars for the last 4 years. The MTCML provides a major source of revenue for the AMM and allows the AMM mem- bership dues to remain one of the lowest in Canada. This past year, the MTCML was able to rebate another $350,000 to our members based on their MTCML sales, bringing the cumulative rebate over the past four years to $1,250,000. MTCML Official Major Programs Suppliers There are also two major buying programs offered by Official Suppliers are very the Trading Company. These programs are owned by important to the success of the the AMM membership, managed by the AMM and MTCML. These suppliers offer hundreds of products each administered by a company that has expertise in and services that municipalities use. The Trading the program area. Company has individual contracts with each of these Petroleum Products Buying Group suppliers that ensure the best possible pricing for the purchasing members. In return, suppliers have direct (PPBG) contact with Manitoba’s municipal market and can be AMM has entered into contracts with both Imperial Oil a part of regular marketing opportunities through the and Petro Canada, on behalf of all of our participating AMM (mailings, Convention, trade shows, etc.) Each Members, for the supply of gasoline, diesel and of our suppliers has shown long term commitment to lubricants. Our objective is to combat one-sided pricing the MTCML, creating a stable purchasing environment advantages enjoyed by petroleum suppliers and to assist for the members of the AMM. our Members to purchase fuel at a lower cost while still supporting the local fuel dealers. Currently there are 77 Corporate Members AMM Members who purchase over 6,000,000 litres of At present fourteen companies make up the Corporate fuel each year and about 130 other municipalities in Members list of the AMM, five of these new for Saskatchewan and Alberta who purchase an additional 2004/2005. These members assist the buying group in 29,000,000 litres of fuel annually. providing many services and hosting various events The concept of AMM purchasing large volumes of throughout the year. fuel on behalf of our Members and the careful analysis of industry pricing means fuel savings for member municipalities in all three provinces. At the same Last year, the MTCML was able time, local fuel dealers are supported. The program is to rebate $350,000 to our members administered by Prairie Fuel Advisors Inc., who also based on their MTCML sales, bringing act as our purchasing agent. the total rebate over the past The only cost for joining the PPBG is 1.2¢ per litre for the fuel purchased and 10¢ per litre for lubricants. A M.T.C.M.L. four years to $1,250,000. municipality may withdraw from the PPBG at any time, and there is no cost to withdraw.

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 24 MEMBER SERVICES

Insurance MTCML Official Suppliers All AMM members outside Acklands Grainger Inc. of Winnipeg participate in Airmaster Sales the insurance program, administered by Hayhurst Elias Armtec Dudek on behalf of the AMM. Coverage includes Bridgestone Canada Inc. property/road machinery and equipment; crime (loss CD Awards of money); comprehensive general liability; errors Darwen Road Technologies Ltd. and omissions liability; environmental impairment Denray Tire (pollution) liability; fire vehicle insurance; plus Dust Free Road Maintenance accident insurance for Councils, fire departments, Fort Distributors Ltd. ambulance services, and other ‘volunteers’. Grand & Toy A major part of the program is the $3,500,000 annual Guardian Traffic Services Manitoba Ltd. self-insurance loss pool that keeps premiums much Hayhurst Elias Dudek Inc. lower than if individual municipalities purchased their Kal Tire own coverage. Insurance is purchased from various MTS providers for coverage in excess of the $3,500,000 Michelin annual loss pool amount, to provide complete Norquay Printers Ltd. protection. This allows the opportunity for significant PCO Orkin Swat Team refunds in low-claims years. Prairie Fuel Advisors Inc. Last year, the AMM was able to offer an average 5% Shippam & Associates Inc. reduction in our insurance rates. As well, as a result of Souris Rock Shop excellent risk management by municipalities, the Tirecraft AMM was able to refund $918,000 to municipalities Westcon Equipment & Rentals out of the insurance loss pool. Westman Steel Industries AMM Corporate Members Borland Construction Cochrane Engineering Guertin Equipment Hayhurst Elias Dudek Innovative Municipal Products Inc. Manitoba Aboriginal and Northern Affairs Manitoba Heavy Construction Association Manitoba Hydro Manitoba Mixed Concrete Association Manitoba Pork Council Mazer Group Construction Equipment Robert Watson, Attorney Official Suppliers have shown long-term Strong-Coley & Associates commitment to the MTCML. Westcon Equipment & Rentals Ltd. M.T.C.M.L.

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 25 FINANCIAL STATEMENT

100Ð123 Bannatyne Ave., Winnipeg, Manitoba R3B 0R3 Telephone: (204)943-4584 Fax: (204) 957-5195 E-mail: [email protected] Web site: www.exg.ca

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 26 FINANCIAL STATEMENT

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 27 FINANCIAL STATEMENT

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 28 FINANCIAL STATEMENT

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 29 FINANCIAL STATEMENT

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 30 FINANCIAL STATEMENT

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 31 FINANCIAL STATEMENT

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 32 FINANCIAL STATEMENT

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 33 FINANCIAL STATEMENT

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 34 FINANCIAL STATEMENT

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 35 FINANCIAL STATEMENT

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 36 FINANCIAL STATEMENT

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 37 FINANCIAL STATEMENT

MISSION STATEMENT THE ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA MUNICIPALITIES IDENTIFIES AND ADDRESSES THE NEEDS AND CONCERNS OF ITS MEMBERS IN ORDER TO ACHIEVE STRONG AND EFFECTIVE MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT.

AMM ANNUAL REPORT — SEPTEMBER 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2005 38