THE ASSOCIATION OF MUNICIPALITIES

September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 AMM Members Financial Statement

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

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 2 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 39 Financial Statement 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 Special Events & Announcements 20 Member Services 22 Events 22 Communications 24 MTCML 26 Financial Statement 28

AMM Executive Director Joe Masi and AMM President Ron Bell (Photo courtesy of Portage la Prairie Daily Graphic)

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 38 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 3 President’s Message Financial Statement

n behalf of the Board of Directors of every dollar going to municipal governments O of the Association of Manitoba Mu- in Canada, greater revenue sources are nicipalities, I am pleased to present the needed. While appreciated, one-time grants 2005/2006 Annual Report. The past and transfers are not enough to make a mean- year, the eighth in AMM history, was ingful impact on the serious infrastructure is- exciting, productive and even ground- sues facing our communities and do not allow breaking in some cases. community leaders to make long-term plans. Only through this examination will we be able One of the most significant events of the to meet the needs and expectations of all Mani- year for the AMM and our members took tobans. place on November 18, 2005. That is the day that the Province of Manitoba and the These developments with respect to infrastruc- Government of Canada signed the Canada- ture are the result of strong lobbying by the Manitoba Gas Tax Agreement, representing AMM and other organizations, and by you Ð $167.3 million in gas tax revenues to be invested municipal governments who face this deficit in cities and communities across Manitoba over every day. Our lobbying efforts have had an five years. All municipalities have now signed additional key result Ð an increase in public funding agreements and received their first pay- awareness around the infrastructure deficit. In ments. fact, recent media reports and polls strongly suggest that infrastructure renewal is now a top While the share of federal gas tax revenues priority for the public. Hopefully, with public municipalities now receive is appreciated and opinion driving the issue to the forefront of de- needed, we recognize that municipalities are fac- cision-making at both the Provincial and Fed- ing a much larger obstacle in the form of an ever eral levels, we will see increased financial re- increasing infrastructure deficit. Municipalities’ sources make their way into municipal budgets. main source of revenue is property taxes, yet municipal responsibilities span so much more An election year always means a changing of than basic property services today that it is diffi- the guardguard atat thethe AMM,AMM, andand wewe havehave seenseen some cult to keep pace with the added demands. The boardsome boardmembers members depart depart to take to on take other on chal- other result of this inequity is that municipalities cannot lenges.challenges. I’d like I’d liketo take to thank this opportunity Garry Wasylowski, to firstly afford to maintain their rapidly deteriorating infra- thankRural Vice-President,Garry Wasylowski, and AMM Lorne Rural Boguski, Vice Urban structure. President,Vice-President, for his for years their ofyears dedication of dedication to munici- to palmunicipal government government and the and AMM. the GarryAMM. and Lorne, I The federal government has acknowledged that haveGarry worked and I worked side by side-by-side side for a number for several of years a fiscal imbalance exists in Canada between all andyears, his and vast their knowledge knowledge of municipal of municipal issues issues three orders of government, and all three orders andwill besense greatly of humour missed willat our be greatlyboard table. missed I also at of government agree that the current financial ourbid farewellboard table. to Stan I would Ward, also Karen like toCaldwell, bid farewell Rick arrangement is not sustainable. The current mis- toMartel Stan and Ward, Jae Karen Eadie. Caldwell, These board and ???. members These match of revenues and responsibilities is not pro- boardlogged members many hours logged on behalf many longof the hours AMM on and I ductive and the time has come for a change. behalfwish them of the all AMM the best and in we their wish future them endeavors. all the More is needed than a simple one time transfer of bestThanks in their also future to the endeavors.rest of the boardI also thankfor their the surplus revenues, and all orders of government restcontinued of the dedicationboard for their and continuedcontribution dedication to the need to work toward the implementation of a sus- andAMM. contribution You are all to true the professionals AMM. You are whose all true work tainable plan to address the challenges facing professionalson behalf of our whose members work onis important behalf of ourand Canadian communities. membersappreciated. is important and appreciated. By the same token, we have been advocating for In closing, I must reserve my greatest thanks to a serious examination of the roles, responsibili- you, the members of the AMM. While we have ties and resources of all orders of government faced many trials, we have also gained much here in Manitoba. There is little doubt that our and I believe that over the past year we have most communities need help, and with only eight cents certainly achieved that most important milestone:

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 4 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 37 Financial Statement Executive Director’s Message

strong and effective municipal government. On the communications side of the AMM, our We have much yet to do in addressing our magazine and bulletins continue to improve and infrastructure deficit, but working with the Federal keep our membership informed on various and Provincial Governments over the coming initiatives of the AMM. As well, visits to the year, we can make significant progress in AMM website at www.amm.mb.ca has doubled addressing this key municipal issue. over the past two years. We attribute this I hope you enjoy this annual report and the increase to the website being easy to use, accomplishments we have made together in always up to date and offering a wealth of 2005/2006. resources to our membership. Our policy and lobbying activities continue to make good progress on the major issues facing Ron Bell, AMM President municipalities. These are outlined in more detail in the President’s message and in the rest of the annual report. I would like to thank our Board of Directors for its am pleased to provide the Executive support and guidance throughout the year, I Director’s message for the eighth annual including those Board members who are no report of the Association of Manitoba longer on our Board. Municipalities (AMM). To our staff at the AMM, I would sincerely like to On the financial side, the AMM and recognize the excellent work they do on behalf Municipalities Trading Company of of our Board and our membership. They are Manitoba Limited (MTCML) continue to be dedicated and professional in the performance strong, as shown in the financial statements of their duties and I could not do my job as in this report. MTCML sales increased Executive Director without their support. this past year, and as a result the AMM I would like to thank and acknowledge President was able to offer a rebate back to the Dale Lyle and Executive Director Mel Nott of the membership for the fifth consecutive year. This Manitoba Municipal Administrators Association year’s rebate was $500,000, bringing the total (MMAA) and all the members of MMAA for their rebates back to the membership to $1.75 million valuable contribution to the AMM. We truly over the past five years. We sincerely thank all value the partnership and excellent working municipalities for their continued use of our trading relationship between the AMM and MMAA. company. It is clear our members understand the Lastly, I would like to thank our membership for value they receive from the trading company, as their continued advice, support and illustrated in some of the members’ comments on encouragement. You havewelcomed our p. 27 of this report. We would also like to express Association to your offices on municipal visits, our appreciation and thanks to our official provided us with valuable feedback on various suppliers. They offer our membership excellent issues facing municipalities and you continue to products and services at discounted prices that serve your communities with dedication. are second to none. We hope you enjoy this annual report and we In terms of our events, this past year the AMM look forward to continuing to work on your behalf was able to offer two first-rate and affordable in the coming year. professional development courses for elected officials. Our other events, including the Annual Convention and Municipal Officials Seminar & Joe Masi, Executive Director Trade Show, were also well attended and are further highlighted on pages 22 and 23.

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 36 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 5

Financial Statement Board of Directors Financial Statement

AMM Board of Directors (L to R): Councillor Art Rempel, Eastern Urban Director; Councillor Richard Martel, Central Urban Director; Mayor Ron Bell, President; Mayor Stan Ward, Western Urban Director; Reeve William Danylchuk, Eastern Rural Director; Councillor Bert Lagimodiere, Northern Director; Reeve Garry Wasylowski, Rural Vice-President; Reeve Alice Bourgouin, Interlake Rural Director; Mayor Shirley Kalyniuk, Midwestern Urban Director; Reeve Robert Misko, Parklands Rural Director; Councillor Jae Eadie, City of Winnipeg Director; Mayor Randy Sigurdson, Interlake Urban Director; Mayor Lorne Boguski, Urban Vice- President; Reeve Roger Wilson, Midwestern Rural Director; Mayor Rene Maillard, Parklands Urban Director; Councillor Alan Ransom, Western Rural Director; Councillor Doug Dobrowolski, Central Rural Director; and Dale Lyle, MMAA President

AMM Social & Fiscal Issues Committee AMM Resource Management Committee Art Rempel, Doug Dobrowolski, Stan Ward, Bert Lagimodiere, William Danylchuk, Alice Robert Misko, Jae Eadie, Randy Sigurdson, Bourgouin, Roger Wilson, Shirley Kalyniuk, Alan and Rene Maillard Ransom, and Richard Martel

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 6 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 35

FinancialFinancial StatementStatement Executive & Staff

AMM Executive (Back Row, L to R)

Mayor Lorne Boguski, Urban Vice-President Reeve Garry Wasylowski, Rural Vice-President Mayor Ron Bell, President

Front Row Joe Masi, Executive Director

AMM Staff (Back Row L to R): Lynne Bereza, Communications Coordinator; Rachel Philippe, Senior Policy Analyst; Erika Rempel, Administrative Assistant, Policy & Communications; Donna Belbin, Events Coordinator; Patti De Baets, Finance Coordinator; and Julia Green, Administrative Assistant, Board & Administration Front Row L to R: Joe Masi, Executive Director; Linda Hargest, Director of Administration & Marketing; and Tyler MacAfee, Director of Policy & Communications

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 34 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 7

Financial Statement External Committees Financial Statement

President Ron Bell Councillor Rick Martel ¥ Federation of Canadian Municipalities ¥ “Tools for Change” Award Committee ¥ Provincial/Local Consultative Committee ¥ Certification of Water & Wastewater Plant on Infrastructure Operators Review Committee ¥ Federal Gas Tax Oversight Committee ¥ Manitoba Product Stewardship Board ¥ Infrastructure Council of Manitoba ¥ Prairie Grain Roads Program Councillor Bert Lagimodiere Management Committee ¥ MTS Buried Cable Committee ¥ Manitoba Airport Operators Committee Vice-President Garry Wasylowski ¥ Inter Utility Committee ¥ Provincial/Local Consultative Committee ¥ RCMP Human Resources Advisory on Infrastructure Committee ¥ Planning Act Review ¥ Prairie Grain Roads Program Management Mayor Stan Ward Committee ¥ “Tools for Change” Award Committee ¥ Lake Winnipeg Stewardship Board ¥ Building Officials Training Certificate ¥ KAP Water Management Working Group Program ¥ Building Standards Board Vice-President Lorne Boguski ¥ Manitoba Public Insurance Vehicle Fire ¥ Provincial/Local Consultative Committee Advisory Committee on Infrastructure ¥ Manitoba Product Stewardship Board ¥ Large Urban Policing Committee ¥ Hudson Bay Route Association Reeve Robert Misko ¥ Planning Excellence Awards Judging Councillor Doug Dobrowolski Panel ¥ Office of the Fire Commissioner Advisory Committee Reeve Roger Wilson ¥ Manitoba Emergency Services College ¥ Conservation District Commission Advisory Committee ¥ Conservation Agreements Board ¥ By-law Enforcement Working Group ¥ Manitoba Habitat Heritage Board ¥ Rivers West Committee ¥ Public Fire Safety & Prevention Advisory Councillor Art Rempel Committee ¥ Community Investment Support Program ¥ Manitoba Disaster Appeals Board ¥ “Tools for Change” Working Group ¥ Drainage Guidelines Committee ¥ Review of the Library Act ¥ Livestock Facilitated Community Consultation Program Mayor Shirley Kalynuik ¥ Sport Manitoba Committee Mayor Rene Maillard ¥ MTS Buried Cable Committee ¥ “Tools for Change” Working Group ¥ Medical First Response Advisory Reeve Alice Bourgouin Committee ¥ Manitoba Technical Erosion Committee ¥ Manitoba Disaster Appeal Board ¥ Biodiesel Committee Reeve William Danylchuk ¥ Manitoba Public Insurance Vehicle Fire Mayor Randy Sigurdson Advisory Committee ¥ Physician Resource Coordination Office ¥ MPIC Road Safety Coordination Policy Committee Committee

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 8 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 33

Financial Statement Financial Statement Policy & Lobbying

ach year, the AMM monitors proposed leglsiation introduced in the

VERVIEW E . During this year’s session, the AMM presented or submitted comments to legislative committees or ministers responsible

O for the following bills:

Provincial Land Use Bill 14: The Water Policy Review Rights Amendment Act June 5, 2006 Submission to the Department of The AMM made a Intergovernmental Affairs & presentation to the Trade—November 7, 2005 Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs regarding The Province updated the Bill 14: The Water Rights EGISLATIVE Provincial Land Use Policy Amendment Act. L (PLUP) prior to The Planning Act coming into force on Water protection is a January 1, 2006. Policy two central issue for municipal guides agricultural development governments. Developing and the amendment focused on the legislative framework enhancing clarity in planning for the protection of processes. The AMM raised Manitoba’s water has two key concerns regarding this involved enacting a number legislation. of bills and regulations designed to protect this First, the animal unit calculation valuable resource. A key should reflect differences based on species type issue for the AMM has been the need to have and confinement period since year-round adequate enforcement measures in place to confinement and pasturing operations each ensure compliance with the new rules. The have distinct manure management practices. If AMM expressed support for Bill 14 as it the PLUP does not account for these strengthens the enforcement process. differences, municipalities should be authorized to make suitable adjustments. The AMM also noted that while municipalities, through local conservation districts, have begun Secondly, the amendments make producers developing water plans to manage their water, responsible for soil surveys for new or expanded illegal drainage work does occur which affects livestock operations where such information is even the best laid plans. The AMM suggested not available. This will increase costs for many that while stronger enforcement measures are producers due to the widespread lack of detailed appreciated, additional resources should also be mapping in Manitoba. The Province is considered for the licensing process, as responsible for environmental concerns and the improving the process may reduce the amount costs of assessing soil suitability should not be of illegal work being done. shifted to individual producers. AMM continues to raise municipal concerns Bill 14 received Royal Assent on June 13, through the overall review of the Provincial Land 2006. Use Policies.

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 32 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 9 Policy & Lobbying Financial Statement

Bill 15: The Emergency Measures public buildings are safe, and they also

VERVIEW Amendment Act May 24, 2006 understand the benefits to standardizing codes across the province. Last May, the AMM made a presentation to the O Overall, Bill 30 clarifies the roles of both the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs Province and municipalities in these important around Bill 15: The Emergency Measures areas. While this bill does mandate additional Amendment Act. responsibilities for municipalities, the AMM is Overall, the AMM was pleased to see the confident that by working closely with the Provincial Government introduce Bill 15, as it will department, Manitobans will benefit. allow municipalities to issue emergency prevention orders in advance of a disaster’s Bill 30 received Royal Assent on June 13, onset. This means that municipalities will be 2006. able to take action ahead of time and prevent

EGISLATIVE damages.

L The AMM did express concern that there is no Other bills passed during this guarantee that necessary preventative work will session of interest to the AMM be covered under the current Disaster Financial included: Assistance program. While the AMM is pleased that Bill 15 gives communities new tools to deal ¥ Bill 7: The Architects and with disasters, without accompanying financial Engineers Scope of Practice assistance many municipalities will still be Dispute Settlement Act Received unable to take any meaningful action. Royal Assent November 30th, 2005 Municipalities will benefit from Bill 15 and the ¥ Bill 13: The Conservation Districts ability to enact emergency preparedness orders. This will allow communities to take action to Amendment Act Received Royal Assent June 13, 2006 prevent damages when disasters are looming and to work to protect their communities. ¥ Bill 22: The Elections Reform Act Received Royal Assent June 13, 2006

Bill 15 received Royal Assent on June 13, 2006.

Bill 30: The Fires Prevention and Copies of all of the Emergency Response Act AMM’s presentations to June 5, 2006 the Legislative Standing The AMM presented to the Standing Committee Committees are available on Bill 30: The Fires Prevention and Emergency Response Act. on the AMM website at This is an important piece of legislation for www.amm.mb.ca municipalities as it mandates increased responsibilities for local authorities, primarily increased inspections on public buildings. Municipalities understand the need to ensure

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 10 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 31 Financial Statement Policy & Lobbying

s part of the AMM’s yearly lobbying process, the AMM meets with A individual cabinet ministers to bring forward important municipal issues pertaining to each provincial department. At each meeting, the AMM

IGHLIGHTS discusses areas of key concern involving municipalities and that minister’s departmental portfolio. Following are some of the concerns that the AMM

H highlighted during this year’s ministerial meetings:

Aboriginal & Northern Affairs Courses for Level III and IV certification are only available by correspondence or by traveling out The AMM met with Minister on of province. Training opportunities should be September 11. Highlights included: available in Manitoba in order to facilitate Delays in the treaty land entitlement (TLE) compliance with new Provincial requirements. process are costly and greater incentives are With Manitoba’s commitment to expanding wind required to ease the negotiation process. The energy capacity, there is an opportunity to train TLE process in Saskatchewan offers valuable OBBYING local people to build new facilities and perform

L insight regarding appropriate incentives and regular maintenance. Much of this skilled labour systems to support the selection and conversion is imported and the Province should promote the of land. development of a local skilled labour force. A review of the current TLE compensation structure should consider Saskatchewan’s Update:The Province recognizes the need system in order to seek alternative ways of in both of these areas and is working to pro- enhancing Manitoba’s TLE process. vide local training opportunities. Projects to address the high cost of healthy food and promote local food production in northern Agriculture, Food & Rural Initiatives communities are underway as part of the The AMM met with Minister Northern Healthy Foods Initiative. However, on February 22. Highlights included: there is a need to improve affordability of milk products. The mandate of the Manitoba Milk Flooding in 2005 highlighted the need for Prices Review Commission should be expanded enhanced disaster financial assistance in to include northern communities. Manitoba. There is a need for disaster assistance to fund permanent preventive Update: There are currently 6 TLEs in measures, rather than exclusively focusing on process and the Province will be working temporary, ad hoc initiatives. on them one by one. The proposed Bill 32 Economic development is an important priority Ð The Real Property Amendment Act that that requires a coordinated Provincial strategy. was not passed last session will be reintro- The Province must ensure that funding duced in the fall session. mechanisms are responsive to a range of local Advanced Education & Training priorities and initiatives. The AMM met with Minister Diane McGifford on New legislation regarding land and water September 11. Highlights included: resource planning must be coordinated to ensure consistency across Provincial September 1, 2006 marks the deadline for departments. Improved clarity and the certification of water and wastewater operators. enhanced use of scientific principles will As of this date all new employees must be increase the effectiveness of the legislation. appropriately certified.

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 30 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 11 Policy & Lobbying Financial Statement

The new regulations must not depend on Update: GMES has put forward regulatory municipal governments for financing and the changes to improve tire recycling, with blue Province should ensure that resources are box, electronic waste and household available to meet increased responsibilities.

IGHLIGHTS hazardous waste to follow. The Province All affected Provincial Departments, has committed to maintaining the 80:20

H municipalities and agencies need to work funding ratio under GMES and consulting together to develop a coordinated approach to with municipalities as new regulations are effectively control weeds at the source. The developed. Province should provide the resources to manage this important undertaking. The chief place of residency fee increased by $100 in the 2006 Budget. The Province is reviewing the fee system for provincial Update: AMM held an information session on economic development at the 2006 parks to ensure that it is responsive to the Municipal Officials Seminar to highlight the interests of all stakeholders.

OBBYING types of initiatives that occur throughout

L Manitoba. Culture, Heritage & Tourism The AMM met with Minister Eric Robinson on Manitoba Conservation January 25. Highlights included: The AMM met with Minister The Province should promote recreation by on January 25. Highlights included: enhancing funding for the Community Places Green Manitoba Eco Solutions (GMES) must Program, increasing funding to recreation obtain sufficient Provincial funding to maintain commissions and advancing a tri-partite the 80:20 funding ratio. Permanent recycling national recreation infrastructure program. programs for household hazardous waste and Public libraries require increased financial electronic waste must be established. support and the Province should reduce the Training opportunities must be available within reliance on per capita funding mechanisms. Manitoba for all water and wastewater operator Further options for joining regional libraries levels to ensure that appropriate personnel can should be considered, such as allowing the be hired locally. designation of parts of municipalities to The Province should allocate resources to regional library districts. coordinate the efforts of various Departments, The Province should establish a trust fund for municipalities and agencies to control weeds at the ongoing maintenance of the Trans-Canada the source. Trail in Manitoba.

The Province should review the taxation of Update: The Public Libraries Review park residences and impose taxation whereby Committee submitted its final report to municipalities are adequately compensated for Minister Robinson, recommending services used by permanent park residents. reviewing funding mechanisms and allowing the designation of parts of The policy papers developed for municipalities to regional library districts. each meeting are available on the As well, the Province allocated $1 million AMM website at www.amm.mb.ca. to assist the Manitoba Recreational Trails Association with the construction of the Trans Canada Trail.

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 12 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 29 Financial Statement Policy & Lobbying

Education, Citizenship & Youth Update: Wind energy projects will move The AMM met with Minister on forward as the Province releases a February 15. Highlights included: Request for Proposals for another 300

IGHLIGHTS megawatts. New projects should begin in Property taxes are an inappropriate mechanism 2007-08. to raise funds for education. The Province has H been moving in the right direction by eliminating In addition, biodiesel incentives have been the residential Education Support Levy (ESL) enhanced as the Province will no longer and providing a 60 per cent rebate for farmland. collect the 11.5 cents per litre fuel tax on However, further movement is required since 100 per cent biodiesel. there has been no change to education taxation on commercial property and the Province still relies heavily on property taxation to fund education.

OBBYING The Province has committed to further changes

L to education funding mechanisms and municipalities are anticipating these changes in the next Provincial Budget. A long-term plan is required to shift education funding away from property taxation. Energy, Science & Technology The AMM met with Minister David Chomiak on June 8. Highlights included: Wind energy projects will move forward The Province must engage in meaningful consultation with municipalities during the in 2007-08. drafting of regulations and throughout the Family Services & Housing ongoing activities of Green Manitoba Eco Solutions. The AMM met with Minister on February 7. Highlights included: Further investments in ethanol and biodiesel facilities are required across Manitoba to There is a need for greater accessibility to promote clean energy alternatives and local affordable housing programs for all economic development. communities. Economic development and neighbourhood revitalization programs, such as Along with environmental benefits, wind energy the Neighbourhoods Alive! program, should be also provides opportunities for economic available in more communities, while benefits for Provincial and municipal maintaining the level of funding available to governments. The Province should expand Winnipeg, Brandon, and Thompson. efforts to stimulate growth in Manitoba’s wind energy sector. Update: Several rural communities Extension of cellular coverage should be received funding for affordable housing addressed by governments working with private projects under the Canada-Manitoba industry to meet the needs of Manitobans. The Affordable Housing Initiative (AHI) Province should adopt a more prominent role in including Steinbach, Ste. Anne, Dauphin, the expansion of cellular service to remote Woodlands, Arborg, Morden and The Pas. areas.

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 28 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 13 Policy & Lobbying Member Services

Health the infrastructure challenges created by mining here are two major buying programs offered by the Trading Company. These operations. The AMM met with Minister on T programs are owned by the AMM membership, managed by the AMM and January 31. Highlights included: Future leases for gravel pit operators should each administered by a company that has expertise in the program area.

IGHLIGHTS include a requirement to pay property taxes, The effective delivery of health care services is since municipalities are inadequately MTCML Fuel Supply Program H paramount to community sustainability, but compensated for the current use of municipal Regional Health Authorities (RHA) are falling infrastructure by operators. AMM entered into two new contracts with Imperial Oil and with two local short since they do not respond to local Co-ops in August 2006 on behalf of all of our participating Members, for the community needs. The Province should review There are significant health and environmental supply of gasoline, diesel and lubricants. We have also entered into a contract the RHA structure in order to achieve greater risks associated with orphaned and abandoned with Fas Gas and Race Trac Gas for the supply of gasoline and diesel, at a very attractive accountability and transparency and to allow the mine sites and the Province must commit discount from local pump prices, at their 450 locations throughout the three prairie provinces. election of RHA boards. greater resources to the timely remediation of these hazardous locations. Our objective of starting this program in 1997 was to combat one-sided pricing advantages Greater resources must be allocated to ensure enjoyed by petroleum suppliers and to assist our Members in purchasing fuel at a lower cost while Manitobans have local access to physicians. Update: The AMM is represented on a still supporting the local fuel dealers. At present, there are 77 AMM Members who currently OBBYING The Province should address physician committee to review the aggregate mining purchase over 6,000,000 litres of fuel each year and about 130 other municipalities in L shortages by providing additional support for fees and make recommendations on Saskatchewan and Alberta who purchase an additional 29,000,000 litres of fuel annually. locally trained students, facilitating the enhancing this fee structure. The Fuel Supply Program of AMM generates substantial fuel savings for member municipalities, recruitment of international medical graduates, while at the same time supporting local fuel dealers. Prairie Fuel Advisors Inc. who act as our agent and contributing to retention strategies to keep and who ensure all prices are consistent with the terms of the supply contracts, administers the physicians in Manitoba. Justice program. Prairie Fuel is responsible for locating discrepancies and ensures our Members do not As a public health concern, the Province should The AMM met with Minister on pay more than the contract terms specify. take a proactive stance on West Nile virus February 7. Highlights included: prevention and absorb all related surveillance HED Annual Report The Province should commit additional and mosquito control costs. ”With the Fuel Program, we resources to police services throughout All AMM members outside of Winnipeg participate in the AMM's property/casualty insurance program, save money and, thanks to The Province should fully fund the ambulance Manitoba to ensure that all communities have the fixed prices, we are able costs of inter-facility patient transfers across sufficient access to safety and crime prevention administered by HED Insurance on behalf of the AMM. Coverage includes property/road machinery and equipment; to plan our fuel expenditures RHA boundaries. services. much better.” crime (loss of money); comprehensive general liability; errors The Province should work with municipalities to Efforts to reduce youth crime should include and omissions liability; environmental impairment (pollution) Grant Thorsteinson, CAO prepare for a pandemic influenza and to lobbying for a federal review of The Youth liability; fire vehicle insurance; plus accident insurance for RM of Bifrost establish effective response mechanisms. Criminal Justice Act to deal more effectively with councils, fire departments, ambulance services, and other “Tires, fuel, office furniture, offenders and repeat offenders as well as to 'volunteers'. industrial supplies, signage, Update: 101 students started in the 2006- address the regional diversity of Manitoba’s printing and, of course, A major part of the program is the $4,000,000 annual self- 07 class at the municipalities. insurance. We use the medical school, making this the largest insurance loss pool that keeps premiums much lower than if The Province should restrict the re-issuance of MTCML a lot.” class in 30 years. individual municipalities purchased their own coverage. driver’s licenses pending the payment of Insurance is purchased from various insurer providers for Gary Hanna, Administrator outstanding parking and traffic violation fines. coverage in excess of the $4,000,000 annual loss pool LGD of Pinawa Industry, Economic Development Manitoba Public Insurance Corporation amount, to provide complete protection. This allows the “I’ve been here 28 years. & Mines opportunity for significant refunds in low-claims years. The Trading Company made Manitoba Public Insurance Corporation should sense to me then, and it The AMM met with Minister on provide full compensation when municipal fire In addition the AMM makes available a "self-insured" makes sense to me now.” February 15. Highlights included: departments respond to motor vehicle Employee Benefits Program for employees and council Eric Plaetinck, CAO The Province should review the 4.4-cent per accidents. Compensation mechanisms should members. This program offers flexible coverage options at tonne aggregate mining fee in order to provide also cover traffic control services performed by very reasonable rates. Currently 130 municipalities RM of South Cypress municipalities with sufficient funding to address firefighters. participate in this program, and more join every year.

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 14 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 27 Member Services Policy & Lobbying

he Municipalities Trading Company of Manitoba MTCML Official Transportation T Ltd. (MTCML) allows AMM members to Suppliers Update: Acting on the resolutions passed Acklands Grainger Inc. by the membership, the AMM has been purchase products and services at lower prices The AMM met with Minister on Airmaster Sales working with the Province and those April 25. Highlights included: through the power of bulk buying. This past year Armtec IGHLIGHTS municipalities most directly impacted by

MTCML was another great success. Sales increased Bridgestone Canada Inc. unpaid parking violations to find a way to Increased infrastructure investment is one of the H greatest needs in Manitoba and the Province and the stable pool of official suppliers CD Awards allow municipalities to hold driver's must commit to a long-term plan with sustained Darwen Road Technologies Ltd. licenses until parking offences are continued to change and grow. funding to address the increasing transportation Denray Tire paid. The Province has been willing to infrastructure deficit. Dust Free Road Maintenance review this issue and we expect to have it The MTCML provides a major source of revenue for Fort Distributors Ltd. resolved in the near future. The discontinuation of the Bridge Cooperative Grand & Toy the AMM and allows the AMM membership dues to Program and the Manitoba Airport Capital Guardian Traffic Services Ltd. As of January 2006, MPIC compensation Assistance Program had a profound impact on remain one of the lowest in Canada. This year, the Hayhurst Elias Dudek Inc. rates increased to $600 per incident for many small communities. The Province should MTCML was able to rebate another $500,000 to our Kal Tire basic calls and to $800 per incident for reinstate both of these crucial programs. members based on their MTCML sales, bringing the Lyreco OBBYING complex calls. MTS L The Province should establish a coordinated cumulative rebate over the past five years Michelin approach for municipalities and departments to to $1,750,000. Norquay Printers Ltd. Labour & Immigration control weed growth along Provincial roads and PCO Orkin Swat Team in ditches to minimize the spread of noxious The AMM met with Minister on Prairie Fuel Advisors Inc. weeds. MTCML Official Suppliers February 15. Highlights included: Shippam & Associates Inc. Official Suppliers are very Souris Rock Shop The Province should ensure that additional fire Update: The Province increased its important the success of the Tirecraft inspections are not downloaded to municipal fire investment in highways to $257 million in MTCML. These suppliers offer Westcon Equipment & Rentals departments. the 2006 Budget. hundreds of products and Westman Steel Industries Mutual aid districts require additional resources services that municipalities use. to provide appropriate training to all personnel. The Trading Company has AMM Corporate individual contracts with each of Members All Manitobans should have access to 911 these suppliers that ensure the Borland Construction services, therefore the Province should best possible pricing for the Cochrane Engineering adequately staff the Medical Transportation purchasing members. In return, Guertin Equipment Coordination Centre and enact mandatory 911 suppliers have direct contact Hayhurst Elias Dudek legislation for all municipalities. with Manitoba’s municipal Ikon Office Solutions AMM also raised the issue of compensation for Innovative Municipal Products market and can be a part of municipal fire departments responding to motor MTCML Trade Show, J.R. Cousin Consultants Ltd. regular marketing opportunities vehicle accidents and the inclusion of traffic through the AMM (mailings, Manitoba Aboriginal and Northern February, 2006 control in the compensation rates. Convention, trade shows, etc.) Affairs Each of our suppliers have shown long term commitment to Manitoba Heavy Construction the MTCML, creating a stable purchasing environment for the Association Update: The Province passed Bill 30 Ð Increased infrastructure investment is members of the AMM. Manitoba Hydro The Fires Prevention and Emergency one of the greatest needs in Manitoba. Manitoba Mixed Concrete Response Act . Corporate Members Association Fourteen companies make up the Corporate Members list of Manitoba Pork Council the AMM. These members assist the buying group in Mazergroup Construction The policy papers developed for each meeting are available on the AMM providing many services and hosting various events Equipment website at www.amm.mb.ca. throughout the year. Westcon Equipment & Rentals

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 26 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 15 Policy & Lobbying Member Services

Intergovernmental Affairs and Trade The AMM often meets with Media Relations various other groups and One of the most important provincial depart- The AMM continually strives to organizations to discuss areas of Media Stats—2005/2006 ments for municipalities is the Department of enhance our relationship with local IGHLIGHTS Intergovernmental Affairs and Trade. Because shared concern. Some of the media. Last year, the AMM was ¥ Media mentions 336 of this the AMM tries to meet on a more regular organizations the AMM met with H mentioned in Manitoba media 336 ¥ Issues discussed 85 basis with the Minister to highlight key municipal last year include: times—a drop from the 400+ mentions ¥ Releases/advisories issued 25 issues. This year the AMM raised several key in 2004/2005, but significant in the issues with Minister Scott Smith, including: ¥ Keystone Agricultural Producers number of issues discussed. The AMM ¥ Federal New Deal for Municipalities ¥ Manitoba As sociation of School Truste es was mentioned in the context of 85 ¥ New Accounting Standards for ¥ Manitoba Chamber of Commerce different media issues, up from 50 Municipalities ¥ Manitoba Conser vation Districts issues the previous year. Association

¥ The Municipal Agenda OMMUNICATIONS Some of the media interviews granted ¥ Changes to the Disaster Financial ¥ Manitoba Fire Chiefs were a result of the 25 news releases C OBBYING Assistance System ¥ Manitoba Foresters Association and media advisories distributed

L ¥ Minister Meetings at AMM Convention ¥ Manitoba Heavy Constructi on Association throughout the year, while others were a product of increased awareness of The AMM will continue to keep a close relation- ¥ Manitoba Hydro the AMM and our lobbying efforts. ship with this Department as it is imperative that ¥ Manitoba Tel ecom Services The AMM enjoyed extensive media the Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and ¥ RCMP Trade has a keen understanding of both emerg- coverage of its primary annual event, ¥ Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce ing and long-standing municipal issues. the AMM Annual Convention, and as a key player in the New Deal negotiations, media stories on that topic included the AMM’s perspective AMM President Ron Bell being interviewed at 81 times. Finance the AMM 7th Annual Convention. The AMM met with the The Building Manitoba Fund The Building Manitoba Minister of Finance, Greg increased by 6% overall in Fund increased by 6% Selinger, on February overall. The total AMM top media issues 2005/2006 14th, to highlight some Budget 2006. increase of $7.9M As a key player in of the key priority areas includes $3.4M for rural for municipalities. These included water issues Manitoba and $4.5M for Winnipeg. $1.7M of the the New Deal and the need for increased funding for policing, rural increase was earmarked for a new recycling, and disaster financial assistance. Recreation Centre and Library Infrastructure 90 negotiations, Fund, with a further commitment of $5.3M next 80 Other issues discussed were health, recreation year. 70 media stories on funding, and the Manitoba Airport Capital education funding On water issues, while the drainage budget 60 Assistance Program and Bridge Co-Operative flooding in Manitoba Program. doubled from $1.9M to 50 that topic included AMM Annual Convention $3.8M, the AMM was 40 Budget Day, March 6, 2006, saw the elimination disappointed that there was gas tax/new deal the AMM’s 30 of the education support levy (ESL), and an to be no increase in increase to the farmland tax rebate to 60%. dedicated funding for the 20 perspective 81 There was also a commitment to further development of Integrated 10 reductions in upcoming budgets. Water Management Plans 0 times. (IWMPs).

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 16 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 25 Member Services Policy & Lobbying

ommunications with our membership is a key area for the AMM and last A New Deal for Manitoba C year saw a number of communications highlights. On November 18th, 2005 the Province of Manitoba and the Government of Canada signed an WWW AMM MB CA The Municipal Leader AMM Website—WWW.AMM.MB.CA IGHLIGHTS agreement on the transfer of federal gas tax revenues under the New Deal for Cities and The AMM website continued to gain popularity The AMM’s quarterly magazine, with a Communities. All municipalities have signed their funding agreements and received their first as illustrated in the graph below. Monthly visits distribution of 1,600, continued to focus on a H payments. A total of $167.3 million will be invested in cities and communities across Manitoba over to the website increased by 25,000 visitors wide range of timely issues. In addition to a five years by the Government of Canada through its commitment to share gas tax revenues. number of regular features each issue has over the previous year. Monthly averages Municipalities may to use their gas tax funds for environmentally-sustainable municipal infrastructure increased from 8,169 visitors per month in some special reports and articles: projects. Eligible project categories include roads and bridges, water and sewer facilities, solid-waste 2004/2005 to 10,298 visitors per month in 2005/2006. management, public transit, community energy systems and municipal capacity building. Decisions The Fall 2005 issue carried on on how these funds are invested will be made locally in a way that responds to the infrastructure with our series on Diversity in needs of each community and results in environmental benefits such as clearer air, cleaner water Municipal Politics with “Youth

OMMUNICATIONS Visitors to AMM website and reduced greenhouse gas emissions for all Manitobans. in Politics”. Also featured was a profile on the Provincial The Province of Manitoba is administering the federal gas tax funds made available under these C OBBYING Ombudsman in Manitoba, as agreements on behalf of Canada including making payments to individual municipalities and L 150000 well as a preview of the 7th communities.

2004/2005 Annual AMM Convention. 100000 2005/2006 50000 Winter 2006 previewed both the The Municipal Agenda 0 2006 MOS and Trade Show and # of visitors Manitoba ’s municipal governments continue to take on greater the AMM Education Program. It also featured “Visible Minorities responsibilities. The AMM feels it is necessary that the roles, responsibilities and resources of municipal government be Bi-Weekly News Bulletin in Municipal Government”, part III in our Diversity series. examined. Some options to support municipal governments in The AMM’s bi-weekly news bulletin is a popular A special heritage article was serving their communities effectively are reducing education tax and efficient way to deliver timely information featured on the cover. from property and exempting municipal governments from the on AMM issues. A total of 21 bulletins were Provincial Sales Tax. Throughout the year, the AMM urged the distributed via email last year, to almost 350 Spring, 2006 was an ambitious Province to work with municipalities to seriously examine the roles, AMM members, MLAs, Cabinet Ministers, and issue featuring the special responsibilities and resources of municipal governments in fraternal organizations. report on Economic Manitoba. An additional 250 Development—Programs, The AMM has taken a close look at this issue. In response to the bulletins are sent success stories, bringing AMM Board’s strategic planning session, at this year’s Mayors, to recipients who Hollywood to Manitoba—and Reeves and CAOs meetings the AMM sought feedback from the membership on key issues subscribe using a more. Our Diversity series surrounding the roles, responsibilities and resources of municipal governments in Manitoba. form posted on wrapped up this issue as well. the AMM website. A report was compiled and was the focus of President Bell’s presentation at the June District This figure Meetings. The report found that there is a real need to take a serious, meaningful look of the roles, includes 57 new Summer, 2006 spanned “100 responsibilities and resources of municipal government in this province to maximize resources and subscribers for years of municipal leadership” the reporting with an article on the history of ensure the best delivery of service while dealing with the growing infrastructure deficit. year. the AMM. It then jumped into This report also provided a starting point for all municipal associations from across Canada, including the present (and future) with our the AMM, to commission a major study looking at this very issue. This study will provide a detailed feature report on Municipal examination of the relationships between municipalities and their respective provincial governments Technology. across Canada. We anticipate the final report in April of 2007, and hope its findings further open the door to a realignment of fiscal responsibilities amongst governments.

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 24 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 17 Policy & Lobbying Member Services

Mayors, Reeves & CAOs Meetings ater Ð the very word sets off a fury of The third issue is the financial costs of water March 13—24, 2006 emotions for elected officials. While it is initiatives. Municipalities cannot be seen as the

W VENTS the ‘essence of life’, ‘nature’s hidden treasure’, funding agencies for Provincial water objectives The AMM annual Mayors, Reeves and CAOs E

IGHLIGHTS ‘nature’s magician’ or any other catch phrase of and it is essential that the financial implications meetings were held between March 13 and 24, the week, water is a critical issue for of these policies be considered during 2006. These meetings allow the AMM

H municipalities. Municipal officials are proud to development. Municipal budgets are stretched executive to update members on AMM be leaders in water conservation and protection too thin, and no matter how effective a plan may activities and to enhance communications with members. efforts, but at the same time there is trepidation be it will be useless unless it can be with some of the emerging regulations and implemented. A breakout discussion on The Municipal growing Agenda was an important part of the meetings The fourth issue is expectations. this year. Born out of the AMM’s annual 2006 June District Meetings Integrated strategic planning session in January, the AMM The AMM has spent Watershed felt that the Mayors, Reeves and CAOs much of the last Management meetings were an excellent opportunity to gain Municipal Visits Plans (IWMP) and valuable input from our members on the topic. year working on key Each year, the AMM travels extensively OBBYING the need to A number of key questions were asked of municipal water throughout Manitoba on municipal visits. L address those participants and the results compiled into a issues and in April During the visits, the AMM meets with local groups that are not report on The Municipal Agenda. presented the councils to discuss issues the AMM board is part of Province with the Hosts for the 2006 Mayors, Reeves & CAOs working on, and to hear from the councils conservation Meetings were the RM of Kelsey & Town of AMM Water Issues regarding the issues facing these communities. Paper. Highlighting districts, including The Pas, RM of Ochre River, RM of Riverside, six principal issues, crown lands, First RM of Franklin, RM of Park, RM of Morris, and The AMM visited 67 municipalities in 2006. the City of Selkirk. the paper provides Nations and non- AMM Education Program a synopsis of the participating June District Meetings most pressing areas municipalities. June 12—21, 2006 This year, AMM members were offered two in need of attention Water – the very word sets off a fury of emotions Watersheds are outstanding education sessions. In the first and clarification. for elected officials. certainly the most June District Meetings are held in each of the session, held in Brandon on March 1, 2006, logical basis for AMM's seven districts. Resolutions passed at well known law firm McCandless Tramley The first issue water planning, however conservation districts June District Meetings are brought forward to teamed with Roger Bouvier of Municipal highlighted is the need for meaningful are not based on watersheds so this the AMM Annual Convention. Solutions to present a hands-on session to stakeholder input into the development of the discrepancy needs to be taken into over 100 participants. provincial water policy. There is no doubt that The 2006 meetings were hosted by the RM of consideration. municipalities and conservation districts will be Hanover, RM of Arthur & Town of Melita, RM The second session, held in Winnipeg on May key partners in the implementation of any plan, The final two issues highlighted in the paper is of Dufferin & Town of Carman, RM of Miniota, 4, 2006, featured George Cuff presenting “The so it is imperative that they are consulted the need to update the antiquated Conservation City of Flin Flon, RM of Mossey River, and the Essential Elements of Local Government: How throughout the process. The expectation is for Districts Act and the need for realistic timelines Town of Teulon. Total attendance at this year’s to Make it Work for Your Municipality” to 73 meaningful consultation beyond simply sharing for the implementation of these requirements. June District Meetings was 672 delegates. participants. the plan with municipalities once it is developed The AMM will continue to push for the resolution internally. of these issues in order to ensure that The second issue is the need for a long-term municipalities have input into Manitoba’s water plan that municipalities and CDs can work in vision and that the end vision is reflective of the conjunction with in order to meet mutually needs of municipalities and the realities they beneficial objectives. The success of the entire face. water management system rests on this plan, so The AMM looks forward to the Department’s it is critical that it is developed quickly in formal response to the issues identified in the conjunction with municipalities and CDs. paper. Delegates line up to register for February’s Municipal Officials Seminar (MOS)

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 18 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 23 Member Services Policy & Lobbying

he AMM annually hosts four main events for our members, as well as Lobby Days—April 11 & 12 T a series of high quality professional development sessions. VENTS On April 11 & 12, 2006, the AMM organized the

E 2nd annual Lobby Days at the Manitoba IGHLIGHTS AMM Annual Convention This year’s Ministerial Forum Legislature. This year, the AMM met with the saw six ministers take part. The Brandon Keystone Centre H NDP caucus as a group, and individually with Honourable Scott Smith chaired November 21-24, 2005 Conservative and Liberal MLAs. Three topics the forum and was joined by were raised at each meeting: The Municipal A grand total of 979 delegates Ron Lemieux (Transportation Agenda, Education Tax, and Water Issues. attended the AMM’s 7th Annual and Government Services), Convention, held at the Brandon (Water Municipal Agenda The AMM introduced Keystone Centre. Stewardship), Tim Sale this topic by explaining that as Manitoba’s municipal governments continue to take on Delegates enjoyed three engaging keynote (Health), Rosann Wowchuk (Agriculture, Food increasingly greater responsibilities, it is Hugh McFadyen, Leader of the Official Opposition, speakers in Kevin Burns, Peter de Jager, and and Rural Initiatives), and Stan Struthers necessary that the roles, responsibilities and and AMM Central Rural Director Doug Dobrowolski Warren Macdonald. A selection of eight (Conservation). OBBYING resources of municipal government be different workshop sessions were also offered

Elections L examined. on various topics. As well, several plenary valuable first steps that the Provincial AMM President Ron Bell was acclaimed for a sessions were offered, including a special “New There was recognition of the challenges all Government has taken to address this issue by second term as AMM President. Also acclaimed Deal” session, giving delegates an opportunity municipal governments face. The need for reducing education taxes on certain classes of was Lorne Boguski, for a second term as Urban to voice their opinions on the agreement and the funding to flow to property. However, Vice-President. An election took place for the AMM executive an opportunity to present a municipalities to meet The need for funding to flow to reductions in education position of Rural Vice-President, with incumbent detailed account of the negotiation process. the huge infrastructure tax should be available Garry Wasylowski defeating Doug Dobrowolski. municipalities to meet the huge challenges was also Other plenary sessions offered to delegates infrastructure challenges was also to all property owners. well understood by all included Pandemic Influenza Preparedness for Municipal Officials Seminar & Trade The AMM also stressed parties. well understood by all parties. Municipal Governments, and a Water & Show (MOS) February 28-March 1, 2005 that municipalities are Wastewater Operator Certification Program Held each year in Brandon’s Keystone Centre, Education Tax The AMM explained committed to supporting high quality education Update. MOS provides AMM members the opportunity to that education taxation will remain a and do not advocate an overall reduction in Speakers at this year’s convention included the participate in education and policy related priority until the reliance on local property education spending. Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs & Trade, workshop sessions. Over 800 municipal officials taxation to fund education is reduced. The AMM continues to urge the Provincial Scott Smith; Leader of the Manitoba Liberal attended workshops on topics including The AMM expressed appreciation for the Government to create a comprehensive five- Party, Dr. Jon Gerrard; Representative from the Canadian corrections, community problem- year strategy to increase its share of funding for Manitoba Official Opposition, Larry Maguire, solving, pre-retirement planning, hiring a CAO, education, thereby reducing the current reliance MLA for Arthur-Virden; and Gloria Kovach, effective email, the future of municipalities, on property taxes. President of the Federation of Canadian heritage, Manitoba’s extended producer All parties agreed that education tax is still a Municipalities. Premier also responsibility program, and tire stewardship. major issue. presented his annual address to the delegates. Plenary highlights included How the New Deal Program Can Work For You, and A Rationale for Water Issues Municipalities are supportive Resolutions Summary – 2005 the Delivery of Municipal Leisure Services. of water protection efforts, however there are a number of outstanding issues that need to be In conjunction with MOS, the MTCML holds its Number of Resolutions 67 addressed. These issues were presented during largest trade show event of the year. This one- Number of Late Resolutions 4 Lobby Days and are also contained within a Total Number of Resolutions 71 day trade show was held the first day of MOS recent Water Issues Paper (see p. 18). The and included over 100 booths. AMM urged the Province to address the issues Number carried 63 The Honourable Rosann Wowchuk with AMM raised to make Manitoba’s water protection Number defeated 5 Parklands Urban Director Rene Maillard initiatives a success. Number withdrawn 3

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 22 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 19 Special Events & Announcements Special Events & Announcements

MRIF Project Update etween 2005 and 2010, the Municipal Rural B Infrastructure Fund (MRIF) will inject $120 million into municipal infrastructure for Manitoba's urban, rural and northern communities. Eighty percent of MRIF will be allocated to rural and northern infrastructure projects in communities with a population under 250,000. As of March 31, 2006 34 projects totaling $71 million have been announced. Applications are assessed by the Rural/Northern Federal-Provincial-Local Consultative Committee MRIF Funding Announcement, March 24, (FPLCC) on Infrastructure. This is a six-member 2006, RM of Niverville Office committee consisting of the President and two Vice-Presidents from the AMM, the President and L to R: Reg Mead, President, Northern a member of the Northern Association of Association of Community Councils Community Councils (NACC), and an official (NACC); The Honourable Vic Toews, from Manitoba Aboriginal and Northern Affairs. Minister of Justice and Attorney General of The most recent funding announcement took Canada; Mayor Greg Fehr, Town of Back Row, L to R: Mayor Ron Bell, President, AMM; Ian Mackenzie, former Mayor, City of place in Niverville on March 24, 2006. The third Niverville; The Honourable Ron Lemieux, Portage la Prairie; Reeve Toby Trimble, RM of Portage la Prairie; Rick Locke, former CAO, RM and final round of approved MRIF projects for Manitoba Minister of Infrastructure; Ron of Portage la Prairie; Daryl Hrehirchuk, CAO, RM of Portage la Prairie; Dale Lyle, City rural and northern communities is anticipated to Manager, City of Portage la Prairie. Front Row, L to R: Carlos Pinto, Executive Director, be announced in late Fall 2006. Bell, President, AMM COMURES; Mayor Milagro Navas, President, COMURES; Micheline Caron, FCM; and Joe Masi, Executive Director, AMM AMM Achieves Milestone ne of the highlights of the “...we are confronted During their visit, the delegation O past year occurred when the with the same issues met with President Bell and senior he AMM had the honour of receiving a staff of AMM to examine AMM hosted a delegation from El all over the world.” T Centennial Organization Award from the Salvador. Mayor Milagro Navas components of administration, Manitoba Historical Society on April 23, 2006. and Executive Director Carlos Mayor Milagro Navas, finance, member relations, policy The Honourable John Harvard, Lieutenant- President, COMURES Pinto arrived on June 24 and and communications. They also Governor of Manitoba, presented the award to departed on July 2. COMURES, the municipal attended meetings with the City AMM Rural Vice-President Garry Wasylowski association representing communities and the RM of Portage la Prairie, and observed and AMM Executive Director Joe Masi. throughout El Salvador, initially met AMM the AMM Administration and Resource The AMM believes that following the template officials during a Federation of Canadian Management Committee meetings. The group laid out by the original Union of Manitoba Municipalities (FCM) event last year, and were also met with the Minister, Deputy Minister and Municipalities (UMM) and Manitoba Association of immediately interested in forming a relationship senior staff of Manitoba Intergovernmental Manitoba Historical Society 127th Urban Municipalities (MAUM), in which rural and that would help to further develop their Affairs & Trade. Anniversary Awards Ceremony, April 23, urban municipalities work hand in hand for the organization’s lobbying abilities. “Our system in El Salvador is very different from betterment of all, has allowed us to reach this 2006, University of Manitoba The FCM’s Micheline Caron accompanied the yours,” said President Navas, “but we are milestone. L to R: Joe Masi, Executive Director, AMM; group and acted as translator during their confronted with the same issues all over the The AMM has a long history of lobbying for the activities. (FCM sponsors international activities world. Having the experience to hear about the The Honourable John Harvard, Lieutenant- betterment of municipal governments in Manitoba, for its members with funding from the Canadian practices of the AMM opens up new ways to do Governor of Manitoba; and Garry and we are delighted to receive this prestigious Agency for International Development.) things—not necessarily to change but to renew. Wasylowski, Rural Vice-President, AMM It’s inspiring.” award from the Manitoba Historical Society.

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 20 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 21 Special Events & Announcements Special Events & Announcements

MRIF Project Update etween 2005 and 2010, the Municipal Rural B Infrastructure Fund (MRIF) will inject $120 million into municipal infrastructure for Manitoba's urban, rural and northern communities. Eighty percent of MRIF will be allocated to rural and northern infrastructure projects in communities with a population under 250,000. As of March 31, 2006 34 projects totaling $71 million have been announced. Applications are assessed by the Rural/Northern Federal-Provincial-Local Consultative Committee MRIF Funding Announcement, March 24, (FPLCC) on Infrastructure. This is a six-member 2006, RM of Niverville Office committee consisting of the President and two Vice-Presidents from the AMM, the President and L to R: Reg Mead, President, Northern a member of the Northern Association of Association of Community Councils Community Councils (NACC), and an official (NACC); The Honourable Vic Toews, from Manitoba Aboriginal and Northern Affairs. Minister of Justice and Attorney General of The most recent funding announcement took Canada; Mayor Greg Fehr, Town of Back Row, L to R: Mayor Ron Bell, President, AMM; Ian Mackenzie, former Mayor, City of place in Niverville on March 24, 2006. The third Niverville; The Honourable Ron Lemieux, Portage la Prairie; Reeve Toby Trimble, RM of Portage la Prairie; Rick Locke, former CAO, RM and final round of approved MRIF projects for Manitoba Minister of Infrastructure; Ron of Portage la Prairie; Daryl Hrehirchuk, CAO, RM of Portage la Prairie; Dale Lyle, City rural and northern communities is anticipated to Manager, City of Portage la Prairie. Front Row, L to R: Carlos Pinto, Executive Director, be announced in late Fall 2006. Bell, President, AMM COMURES; Mayor Milagro Navas, President, COMURES; Micheline Caron, FCM; and Joe Masi, Executive Director, AMM AMM Achieves Milestone ne of the highlights of the “...we are confronted During their visit, the delegation O past year occurred when the with the same issues met with President Bell and senior he AMM had the honour of receiving a staff of AMM to examine AMM hosted a delegation from El all over the world.” T Centennial Organization Award from the Salvador. Mayor Milagro Navas components of administration, Manitoba Historical Society on April 23, 2006. and Executive Director Carlos Mayor Milagro Navas, finance, member relations, policy The Honourable John Harvard, Lieutenant- President, COMURES Pinto arrived on June 24 and and communications. They also Governor of Manitoba, presented the award to departed on July 2. COMURES, the municipal attended meetings with the City AMM Rural Vice-President Garry Wasylowski association representing communities and the RM of Portage la Prairie, and observed and AMM Executive Director Joe Masi. throughout El Salvador, initially met AMM the AMM Administration and Resource The AMM believes that following the template officials during a Federation of Canadian Management Committee meetings. The group laid out by the original Union of Manitoba Municipalities (FCM) event last year, and were also met with the Minister, Deputy Minister and Municipalities (UMM) and Manitoba Association of immediately interested in forming a relationship senior staff of Manitoba Intergovernmental Manitoba Historical Society 127th Urban Municipalities (MAUM), in which rural and that would help to further develop their Affairs & Trade. Anniversary Awards Ceremony, April 23, urban municipalities work hand in hand for the organization’s lobbying abilities. “Our system in El Salvador is very different from betterment of all, has allowed us to reach this 2006, University of Manitoba The FCM’s Micheline Caron accompanied the yours,” said President Navas, “but we are milestone. L to R: Joe Masi, Executive Director, AMM; group and acted as translator during their confronted with the same issues all over the The AMM has a long history of lobbying for the activities. (FCM sponsors international activities world. Having the experience to hear about the The Honourable John Harvard, Lieutenant- betterment of municipal governments in Manitoba, for its members with funding from the Canadian practices of the AMM opens up new ways to do Governor of Manitoba; and Garry and we are delighted to receive this prestigious Agency for International Development.) things—not necessarily to change but to renew. Wasylowski, Rural Vice-President, AMM It’s inspiring.” award from the Manitoba Historical Society.

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 20 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 21 Member Services Policy & Lobbying

he AMM annually hosts four main events for our members, as well as Lobby Days—April 11 & 12 T a series of high quality professional development sessions. VENTS On April 11 & 12, 2006, the AMM organized the

E 2nd annual Lobby Days at the Manitoba IGHLIGHTS AMM Annual Convention This year’s Ministerial Forum Legislature. This year, the AMM met with the saw six ministers take part. The Brandon Keystone Centre H NDP caucus as a group, and individually with Honourable Scott Smith chaired November 21-24, 2005 Conservative and Liberal MLAs. Three topics the forum and was joined by were raised at each meeting: The Municipal A grand total of 979 delegates Ron Lemieux (Transportation Agenda, Education Tax, and Water Issues. attended the AMM’s 7th Annual and Government Services), Convention, held at the Brandon Steve Ashton (Water Municipal Agenda The AMM introduced Keystone Centre. Stewardship), Tim Sale this topic by explaining that as Manitoba’s municipal governments continue to take on Delegates enjoyed three engaging keynote (Health), Rosann Wowchuk (Agriculture, Food increasingly greater responsibilities, it is Hugh McFadyen, Leader of the Official Opposition, speakers in Kevin Burns, Peter de Jager, and and Rural Initiatives), and Stan Struthers necessary that the roles, responsibilities and and AMM Central Rural Director Doug Dobrowolski Warren Macdonald. A selection of eight (Conservation). OBBYING resources of municipal government be different workshop sessions were also offered

Elections L examined. on various topics. As well, several plenary valuable first steps that the Provincial AMM President Ron Bell was acclaimed for a sessions were offered, including a special “New There was recognition of the challenges all Government has taken to address this issue by second term as AMM President. Also acclaimed Deal” session, giving delegates an opportunity municipal governments face. The need for reducing education taxes on certain classes of was Lorne Boguski, for a second term as Urban to voice their opinions on the agreement and the funding to flow to property. However, Vice-President. An election took place for the AMM executive an opportunity to present a municipalities to meet The need for funding to flow to reductions in education position of Rural Vice-President, with incumbent detailed account of the negotiation process. the huge infrastructure tax should be available Garry Wasylowski defeating Doug Dobrowolski. municipalities to meet the huge challenges was also Other plenary sessions offered to delegates infrastructure challenges was also to all property owners. well understood by all included Pandemic Influenza Preparedness for Municipal Officials Seminar & Trade The AMM also stressed parties. well understood by all parties. Municipal Governments, and a Water & Show (MOS) February 28-March 1, 2005 that municipalities are Wastewater Operator Certification Program Held each year in Brandon’s Keystone Centre, Education Tax The AMM explained committed to supporting high quality education Update. MOS provides AMM members the opportunity to that education taxation will remain a and do not advocate an overall reduction in Speakers at this year’s convention included the participate in education and policy related priority until the reliance on local property education spending. Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs & Trade, workshop sessions. Over 800 municipal officials taxation to fund education is reduced. The AMM continues to urge the Provincial Scott Smith; Leader of the Manitoba Liberal attended workshops on topics including The AMM expressed appreciation for the Government to create a comprehensive five- Party, Dr. Jon Gerrard; Representative from the Canadian corrections, community problem- year strategy to increase its share of funding for Manitoba Official Opposition, Larry Maguire, solving, pre-retirement planning, hiring a CAO, education, thereby reducing the current reliance MLA for Arthur-Virden; and Gloria Kovach, effective email, the future of municipalities, on property taxes. President of the Federation of Canadian heritage, Manitoba’s extended producer All parties agreed that education tax is still a Municipalities. Premier Gary Doer also responsibility program, and tire stewardship. major issue. presented his annual address to the delegates. Plenary highlights included How the New Deal Program Can Work For You, and A Rationale for Water Issues Municipalities are supportive Resolutions Summary – 2005 the Delivery of Municipal Leisure Services. of water protection efforts, however there are a number of outstanding issues that need to be In conjunction with MOS, the MTCML holds its Number of Resolutions 67 addressed. These issues were presented during largest trade show event of the year. This one- Number of Late Resolutions 4 Lobby Days and are also contained within a Total Number of Resolutions 71 day trade show was held the first day of MOS recent Water Issues Paper (see p. 18). The and included over 100 booths. AMM urged the Province to address the issues Number carried 63 The Honourable Rosann Wowchuk with AMM raised to make Manitoba’s water protection Number defeated 5 Parklands Urban Director Rene Maillard initiatives a success. Number withdrawn 3

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 22 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 19 Policy & Lobbying Member Services

Mayors, Reeves & CAOs Meetings ater Ð the very word sets off a fury of The third issue is the financial costs of water March 13—24, 2006 emotions for elected officials. While it is initiatives. Municipalities cannot be seen as the

W VENTS the ‘essence of life’, ‘nature’s hidden treasure’, funding agencies for Provincial water objectives The AMM annual Mayors, Reeves and CAOs E

IGHLIGHTS ‘nature’s magician’ or any other catch phrase of and it is essential that the financial implications meetings were held between March 13 and 24, the week, water is a critical issue for of these policies be considered during 2006. These meetings allow the AMM

H municipalities. Municipal officials are proud to development. Municipal budgets are stretched executive to update members on AMM be leaders in water conservation and protection too thin, and no matter how effective a plan may activities and to enhance communications with members. efforts, but at the same time there is trepidation be it will be useless unless it can be with some of the emerging regulations and implemented. A breakout discussion on The Municipal growing Agenda was an important part of the meetings The fourth issue is expectations. this year. Born out of the AMM’s annual 2006 June District Meetings Integrated strategic planning session in January, the AMM The AMM has spent Watershed felt that the Mayors, Reeves and CAOs much of the last Management meetings were an excellent opportunity to gain Municipal Visits Plans (IWMP) and valuable input from our members on the topic. year working on key Each year, the AMM travels extensively OBBYING the need to A number of key questions were asked of municipal water throughout Manitoba on municipal visits. L address those participants and the results compiled into a issues and in April During the visits, the AMM meets with local groups that are not report on The Municipal Agenda. presented the councils to discuss issues the AMM board is part of Province with the Hosts for the 2006 Mayors, Reeves & CAOs working on, and to hear from the councils conservation Meetings were the RM of Kelsey & Town of AMM Water Issues regarding the issues facing these communities. Paper. Highlighting districts, including The Pas, RM of Ochre River, RM of Riverside, six principal issues, crown lands, First RM of Franklin, RM of Park, RM of Morris, and The AMM visited 67 municipalities in 2006. the City of Selkirk. the paper provides Nations and non- AMM Education Program a synopsis of the participating June District Meetings most pressing areas municipalities. June 12—21, 2006 This year, AMM members were offered two in need of attention Water – the very word sets off a fury of emotions Watersheds are outstanding education sessions. In the first and clarification. for elected officials. certainly the most June District Meetings are held in each of the session, held in Brandon on March 1, 2006, logical basis for AMM's seven districts. Resolutions passed at well known law firm McCandless Tramley The first issue water planning, however conservation districts June District Meetings are brought forward to teamed with Roger Bouvier of Municipal highlighted is the need for meaningful are not based on watersheds so this the AMM Annual Convention. Solutions to present a hands-on session to stakeholder input into the development of the discrepancy needs to be taken into over 100 participants. provincial water policy. There is no doubt that The 2006 meetings were hosted by the RM of consideration. municipalities and conservation districts will be Hanover, RM of Arthur & Town of Melita, RM The second session, held in Winnipeg on May key partners in the implementation of any plan, The final two issues highlighted in the paper is of Dufferin & Town of Carman, RM of Miniota, 4, 2006, featured George Cuff presenting “The so it is imperative that they are consulted the need to update the antiquated Conservation City of Flin Flon, RM of Mossey River, and the Essential Elements of Local Government: How throughout the process. The expectation is for Districts Act and the need for realistic timelines Town of Teulon. Total attendance at this year’s to Make it Work for Your Municipality” to 73 meaningful consultation beyond simply sharing for the implementation of these requirements. June District Meetings was 672 delegates. participants. the plan with municipalities once it is developed The AMM will continue to push for the resolution internally. of these issues in order to ensure that The second issue is the need for a long-term municipalities have input into Manitoba’s water plan that municipalities and CDs can work in vision and that the end vision is reflective of the conjunction with in order to meet mutually needs of municipalities and the realities they beneficial objectives. The success of the entire face. water management system rests on this plan, so The AMM looks forward to the Department’s it is critical that it is developed quickly in formal response to the issues identified in the conjunction with municipalities and CDs. paper. Delegates line up to register for February’s Municipal Officials Seminar (MOS)

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ommunications with our membership is a key area for the AMM and last A New Deal for Manitoba C year saw a number of communications highlights. On November 18th, 2005 the Province of Manitoba and the Government of Canada signed an WWW AMM MB CA The Municipal Leader AMM Website—WWW.AMM.MB.CA IGHLIGHTS agreement on the transfer of federal gas tax revenues under the New Deal for Cities and The AMM website continued to gain popularity The AMM’s quarterly magazine, with a Communities. All municipalities have signed their funding agreements and received their first as illustrated in the graph below. Monthly visits distribution of 1,600, continued to focus on a H payments. A total of $167.3 million will be invested in cities and communities across Manitoba over to the website increased by 25,000 visitors wide range of timely issues. In addition to a five years by the Government of Canada through its commitment to share gas tax revenues. number of regular features each issue has over the previous year. Monthly averages Municipalities may to use their gas tax funds for environmentally-sustainable municipal infrastructure increased from 8,169 visitors per month in some special reports and articles: projects. Eligible project categories include roads and bridges, water and sewer facilities, solid-waste 2004/2005 to 10,298 visitors per month in 2005/2006. management, public transit, community energy systems and municipal capacity building. Decisions The Fall 2005 issue carried on on how these funds are invested will be made locally in a way that responds to the infrastructure with our series on Diversity in needs of each community and results in environmental benefits such as clearer air, cleaner water Municipal Politics with “Youth

OMMUNICATIONS Visitors to AMM website and reduced greenhouse gas emissions for all Manitobans. in Politics”. Also featured was a profile on the Provincial The Province of Manitoba is administering the federal gas tax funds made available under these C OBBYING Ombudsman in Manitoba, as agreements on behalf of Canada including making payments to individual municipalities and L 150000 well as a preview of the 7th communities.

2004/2005 Annual AMM Convention. 100000 2005/2006 50000 Winter 2006 previewed both the The Municipal Agenda 0 2006 MOS and Trade Show and # of visitors Manitoba ’s municipal governments continue to take on greater the AMM Education Program. It also featured “Visible Minorities responsibilities. The AMM feels it is necessary that the roles, responsibilities and resources of municipal government be Bi-Weekly News Bulletin in Municipal Government”, part III in our Diversity series. examined. Some options to support municipal governments in The AMM’s bi-weekly news bulletin is a popular A special heritage article was serving their communities effectively are reducing education tax and efficient way to deliver timely information featured on the cover. from property and exempting municipal governments from the on AMM issues. A total of 21 bulletins were Provincial Sales Tax. Throughout the year, the AMM urged the distributed via email last year, to almost 350 Spring, 2006 was an ambitious Province to work with municipalities to seriously examine the roles, AMM members, MLAs, Cabinet Ministers, and issue featuring the special responsibilities and resources of municipal governments in fraternal organizations. report on Economic Manitoba. An additional 250 Development—Programs, The AMM has taken a close look at this issue. In response to the bulletins are sent success stories, bringing AMM Board’s strategic planning session, at this year’s Mayors, to recipients who Hollywood to Manitoba—and Reeves and CAOs meetings the AMM sought feedback from the membership on key issues subscribe using a more. Our Diversity series surrounding the roles, responsibilities and resources of municipal governments in Manitoba. form posted on wrapped up this issue as well. the AMM website. A report was compiled and was the focus of President Bell’s presentation at the June District This figure Meetings. The report found that there is a real need to take a serious, meaningful look of the roles, includes 57 new Summer, 2006 spanned “100 responsibilities and resources of municipal government in this province to maximize resources and subscribers for years of municipal leadership” the reporting with an article on the history of ensure the best delivery of service while dealing with the growing infrastructure deficit. year. the AMM. It then jumped into This report also provided a starting point for all municipal associations from across Canada, including the present (and future) with our the AMM, to commission a major study looking at this very issue. This study will provide a detailed feature report on Municipal examination of the relationships between municipalities and their respective provincial governments Technology. across Canada. We anticipate the final report in April of 2007, and hope its findings further open the door to a realignment of fiscal responsibilities amongst governments.

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Intergovernmental Affairs and Trade The AMM often meets with Media Relations various other groups and One of the most important provincial depart- The AMM continually strives to organizations to discuss areas of Media Stats—2005/2006 ments for municipalities is the Department of enhance our relationship with local IGHLIGHTS Intergovernmental Affairs and Trade. Because shared concern. Some of the media. Last year, the AMM was ¥ Media mentions 336 of this the AMM tries to meet on a more regular organizations the AMM met with H mentioned in Manitoba media 336 ¥ Issues discussed 85 basis with the Minister to highlight key municipal last year include: times—a drop from the 400+ mentions ¥ Releases/advisories issued 25 issues. This year the AMM raised several key in 2004/2005, but significant in the issues with Minister Scott Smith, including: ¥ Keystone Agricultural Producers number of issues discussed. The AMM ¥ Federal New Deal for Municipalities ¥ Manitoba As sociation of School Truste es was mentioned in the context of 85 ¥ New Accounting Standards for ¥ Manitoba Chamber of Commerce different media issues, up from 50 Municipalities ¥ Manitoba Conser vation Districts issues the previous year. Association

¥ The Municipal Agenda OMMUNICATIONS Some of the media interviews granted ¥ Changes to the Disaster Financial ¥ Manitoba Fire Chiefs were a result of the 25 news releases C OBBYING Assistance System ¥ Manitoba Foresters Association and media advisories distributed

L ¥ Minister Meetings at AMM Convention ¥ Manitoba Heavy Constructi on Association throughout the year, while others were a product of increased awareness of The AMM will continue to keep a close relation- ¥ Manitoba Hydro the AMM and our lobbying efforts. ship with this Department as it is imperative that ¥ Manitoba Tel ecom Services The AMM enjoyed extensive media the Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and ¥ RCMP Trade has a keen understanding of both emerg- coverage of its primary annual event, ¥ Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce ing and long-standing municipal issues. the AMM Annual Convention, and as a key player in the New Deal negotiations, media stories on that topic included the AMM’s perspective AMM President Ron Bell being interviewed at 81 times. Finance the AMM 7th Annual Convention. The AMM met with the The Building Manitoba Fund The Building Manitoba Minister of Finance, Greg increased by 6% overall in Fund increased by 6% Selinger, on February overall. The total AMM top media issues 2005/2006 14th, to highlight some Budget 2006. increase of $7.9M As a key player in of the key priority areas includes $3.4M for rural for municipalities. These included water issues Manitoba and $4.5M for Winnipeg. $1.7M of the the New Deal and the need for increased funding for policing, rural increase was earmarked for a new recycling, and disaster financial assistance. Recreation Centre and Library Infrastructure 90 negotiations, Fund, with a further commitment of $5.3M next 80 Other issues discussed were health, recreation year. 70 media stories on funding, and the Manitoba Airport Capital education funding On water issues, while the drainage budget 60 Assistance Program and Bridge Co-Operative flooding in Manitoba Program. doubled from $1.9M to 50 that topic included AMM Annual Convention $3.8M, the AMM was 40 Budget Day, March 6, 2006, saw the elimination disappointed that there was gas tax/new deal the AMM’s 30 of the education support levy (ESL), and an to be no increase in increase to the farmland tax rebate to 60%. dedicated funding for the 20 perspective 81 There was also a commitment to further development of Integrated 10 reductions in upcoming budgets. Water Management Plans 0 times. (IWMPs).

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he Municipalities Trading Company of Manitoba MTCML Official Transportation T Ltd. (MTCML) allows AMM members to Suppliers Update: Acting on the resolutions passed Acklands Grainger Inc. by the membership, the AMM has been purchase products and services at lower prices The AMM met with Minister Ron Lemieux on Airmaster Sales working with the Province and those April 25. Highlights included: through the power of bulk buying. This past year Armtec IGHLIGHTS municipalities most directly impacted by

MTCML was another great success. Sales increased Bridgestone Canada Inc. unpaid parking violations to find a way to Increased infrastructure investment is one of the H greatest needs in Manitoba and the Province and the stable pool of official suppliers CD Awards allow municipalities to hold driver's must commit to a long-term plan with sustained Darwen Road Technologies Ltd. licenses until parking offences are continued to change and grow. funding to address the increasing transportation Denray Tire paid. The Province has been willing to infrastructure deficit. Dust Free Road Maintenance review this issue and we expect to have it The MTCML provides a major source of revenue for Fort Distributors Ltd. resolved in the near future. The discontinuation of the Bridge Cooperative Grand & Toy the AMM and allows the AMM membership dues to Program and the Manitoba Airport Capital Guardian Traffic Services Ltd. As of January 2006, MPIC compensation Assistance Program had a profound impact on remain one of the lowest in Canada. This year, the Hayhurst Elias Dudek Inc. rates increased to $600 per incident for many small communities. The Province should MTCML was able to rebate another $500,000 to our Kal Tire basic calls and to $800 per incident for reinstate both of these crucial programs. members based on their MTCML sales, bringing the Lyreco OBBYING complex calls. MTS L The Province should establish a coordinated cumulative rebate over the past five years Michelin approach for municipalities and departments to to $1,750,000. Norquay Printers Ltd. Labour & Immigration control weed growth along Provincial roads and PCO Orkin Swat Team in ditches to minimize the spread of noxious The AMM met with Minister Nancy Allan on Prairie Fuel Advisors Inc. weeds. MTCML Official Suppliers February 15. Highlights included: Shippam & Associates Inc. Official Suppliers are very Souris Rock Shop The Province should ensure that additional fire Update: The Province increased its important the success of the Tirecraft inspections are not downloaded to municipal fire investment in highways to $257 million in MTCML. These suppliers offer Westcon Equipment & Rentals departments. the 2006 Budget. hundreds of products and Westman Steel Industries Mutual aid districts require additional resources services that municipalities use. to provide appropriate training to all personnel. The Trading Company has AMM Corporate individual contracts with each of Members All Manitobans should have access to 911 these suppliers that ensure the Borland Construction services, therefore the Province should best possible pricing for the Cochrane Engineering adequately staff the Medical Transportation purchasing members. In return, Guertin Equipment Coordination Centre and enact mandatory 911 suppliers have direct contact Hayhurst Elias Dudek legislation for all municipalities. with Manitoba’s municipal Ikon Office Solutions AMM also raised the issue of compensation for Innovative Municipal Products market and can be a part of municipal fire departments responding to motor MTCML Trade Show, J.R. Cousin Consultants Ltd. regular marketing opportunities vehicle accidents and the inclusion of traffic through the AMM (mailings, Manitoba Aboriginal and Northern February, 2006 control in the compensation rates. Convention, trade shows, etc.) Affairs Each of our suppliers have shown long term commitment to Manitoba Heavy Construction the MTCML, creating a stable purchasing environment for the Association Update: The Province passed Bill 30 Ð Increased infrastructure investment is members of the AMM. Manitoba Hydro The Fires Prevention and Emergency one of the greatest needs in Manitoba. Manitoba Mixed Concrete Response Act . Corporate Members Association Fourteen companies make up the Corporate Members list of Manitoba Pork Council the AMM. These members assist the buying group in Mazergroup Construction The policy papers developed for each meeting are available on the AMM providing many services and hosting various events Equipment website at www.amm.mb.ca. throughout the year. Westcon Equipment & Rentals

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 26 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 15 Policy & Lobbying Member Services

Health the infrastructure challenges created by mining here are two major buying programs offered by the Trading Company. These operations. The AMM met with Minister Tim Sale on T programs are owned by the AMM membership, managed by the AMM and January 31. Highlights included: Future leases for gravel pit operators should each administered by a company that has expertise in the program area.

IGHLIGHTS include a requirement to pay property taxes, The effective delivery of health care services is since municipalities are inadequately MTCML Fuel Supply Program H paramount to community sustainability, but compensated for the current use of municipal Regional Health Authorities (RHA) are falling infrastructure by operators. AMM entered into two new contracts with Imperial Oil and with two local short since they do not respond to local Co-ops in August 2006 on behalf of all of our participating Members, for the community needs. The Province should review There are significant health and environmental supply of gasoline, diesel and lubricants. We have also entered into a contract the RHA structure in order to achieve greater risks associated with orphaned and abandoned with Fas Gas and Race Trac Gas for the supply of gasoline and diesel, at a very attractive accountability and transparency and to allow the mine sites and the Province must commit discount from local pump prices, at their 450 locations throughout the three prairie provinces. election of RHA boards. greater resources to the timely remediation of these hazardous locations. Our objective of starting this program in 1997 was to combat one-sided pricing advantages Greater resources must be allocated to ensure enjoyed by petroleum suppliers and to assist our Members in purchasing fuel at a lower cost while Manitobans have local access to physicians. Update: The AMM is represented on a still supporting the local fuel dealers. At present, there are 77 AMM Members who currently OBBYING The Province should address physician committee to review the aggregate mining purchase over 6,000,000 litres of fuel each year and about 130 other municipalities in L shortages by providing additional support for fees and make recommendations on Saskatchewan and Alberta who purchase an additional 29,000,000 litres of fuel annually. locally trained students, facilitating the enhancing this fee structure. The Fuel Supply Program of AMM generates substantial fuel savings for member municipalities, recruitment of international medical graduates, while at the same time supporting local fuel dealers. Prairie Fuel Advisors Inc. who act as our agent and contributing to retention strategies to keep and who ensure all prices are consistent with the terms of the supply contracts, administers the physicians in Manitoba. Justice program. Prairie Fuel is responsible for locating discrepancies and ensures our Members do not As a public health concern, the Province should The AMM met with Minister Gord Mackintosh on pay more than the contract terms specify. take a proactive stance on West Nile virus February 7. Highlights included: prevention and absorb all related surveillance HED Annual Report The Province should commit additional and mosquito control costs. ”With the Fuel Program, we resources to police services throughout All AMM members outside of Winnipeg participate in the AMM's property/casualty insurance program, save money and, thanks to The Province should fully fund the ambulance Manitoba to ensure that all communities have the fixed prices, we are able costs of inter-facility patient transfers across sufficient access to safety and crime prevention administered by HED Insurance on behalf of the AMM. Coverage includes property/road machinery and equipment; to plan our fuel expenditures RHA boundaries. services. much better.” crime (loss of money); comprehensive general liability; errors The Province should work with municipalities to Efforts to reduce youth crime should include and omissions liability; environmental impairment (pollution) Grant Thorsteinson, CAO prepare for a pandemic influenza and to lobbying for a federal review of The Youth liability; fire vehicle insurance; plus accident insurance for RM of Bifrost establish effective response mechanisms. Criminal Justice Act to deal more effectively with councils, fire departments, ambulance services, and other “Tires, fuel, office furniture, offenders and repeat offenders as well as to 'volunteers'. industrial supplies, signage, Update: 101 students started in the 2006- address the regional diversity of Manitoba’s printing and, of course, A major part of the program is the $4,000,000 annual self- 07 class at the University of Manitoba municipalities. insurance. We use the medical school, making this the largest insurance loss pool that keeps premiums much lower than if The Province should restrict the re-issuance of MTCML a lot.” class in 30 years. individual municipalities purchased their own coverage. driver’s licenses pending the payment of Insurance is purchased from various insurer providers for Gary Hanna, Administrator outstanding parking and traffic violation fines. coverage in excess of the $4,000,000 annual loss pool LGD of Pinawa Industry, Economic Development Manitoba Public Insurance Corporation amount, to provide complete protection. This allows the “I’ve been here 28 years. & Mines opportunity for significant refunds in low-claims years. The Trading Company made Manitoba Public Insurance Corporation should sense to me then, and it The AMM met with Minister Jim Rondeau on provide full compensation when municipal fire In addition the AMM makes available a "self-insured" makes sense to me now.” February 15. Highlights included: departments respond to motor vehicle Employee Benefits Program for employees and council Eric Plaetinck, CAO The Province should review the 4.4-cent per accidents. Compensation mechanisms should members. This program offers flexible coverage options at tonne aggregate mining fee in order to provide also cover traffic control services performed by very reasonable rates. Currently 130 municipalities RM of South Cypress municipalities with sufficient funding to address firefighters. participate in this program, and more join every year.

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Education, Citizenship & Youth Update: Wind energy projects will move The AMM met with Minister Peter Bjornson on forward as the Province releases a February 15. Highlights included: Request for Proposals for another 300

IGHLIGHTS megawatts. New projects should begin in Property taxes are an inappropriate mechanism 2007-08. to raise funds for education. The Province has H been moving in the right direction by eliminating In addition, biodiesel incentives have been the residential Education Support Levy (ESL) enhanced as the Province will no longer and providing a 60 per cent rebate for farmland. collect the 11.5 cents per litre fuel tax on However, further movement is required since 100 per cent biodiesel. there has been no change to education taxation on commercial property and the Province still relies heavily on property taxation to fund education.

OBBYING The Province has committed to further changes

L to education funding mechanisms and municipalities are anticipating these changes in the next Provincial Budget. A long-term plan is required to shift education funding away from property taxation. Energy, Science & Technology The AMM met with Minister David Chomiak on June 8. Highlights included: Wind energy projects will move forward The Province must engage in meaningful consultation with municipalities during the in 2007-08. drafting of regulations and throughout the Family Services & Housing ongoing activities of Green Manitoba Eco Solutions. The AMM met with Minister Christine Melnick on February 7. Highlights included: Further investments in ethanol and biodiesel facilities are required across Manitoba to There is a need for greater accessibility to promote clean energy alternatives and local affordable housing programs for all economic development. communities. Economic development and neighbourhood revitalization programs, such as Along with environmental benefits, wind energy the Neighbourhoods Alive! program, should be also provides opportunities for economic available in more communities, while benefits for Provincial and municipal maintaining the level of funding available to governments. The Province should expand Winnipeg, Brandon, and Thompson. efforts to stimulate growth in Manitoba’s wind energy sector. Update: Several rural communities Extension of cellular coverage should be received funding for affordable housing addressed by governments working with private projects under the Canada-Manitoba industry to meet the needs of Manitobans. The Affordable Housing Initiative (AHI) Province should adopt a more prominent role in including Steinbach, Ste. Anne, Dauphin, the expansion of cellular service to remote Woodlands, Arborg, Morden and The Pas. areas.

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The new regulations must not depend on Update: GMES has put forward regulatory municipal governments for financing and the changes to improve tire recycling, with blue Province should ensure that resources are box, electronic waste and household available to meet increased responsibilities.

IGHLIGHTS hazardous waste to follow. The Province All affected Provincial Departments, has committed to maintaining the 80:20

H municipalities and agencies need to work funding ratio under GMES and consulting together to develop a coordinated approach to with municipalities as new regulations are effectively control weeds at the source. The developed. Province should provide the resources to manage this important undertaking. The chief place of residency fee increased by $100 in the 2006 Budget. The Province is reviewing the fee system for provincial Update: AMM held an information session on economic development at the 2006 parks to ensure that it is responsive to the Municipal Officials Seminar to highlight the interests of all stakeholders.

OBBYING types of initiatives that occur throughout

L Manitoba. Culture, Heritage & Tourism The AMM met with Minister Eric Robinson on Manitoba Conservation January 25. Highlights included: The AMM met with Minister Stan Struthers The Province should promote recreation by on January 25. Highlights included: enhancing funding for the Community Places Green Manitoba Eco Solutions (GMES) must Program, increasing funding to recreation obtain sufficient Provincial funding to maintain commissions and advancing a tri-partite the 80:20 funding ratio. Permanent recycling national recreation infrastructure program. programs for household hazardous waste and Public libraries require increased financial electronic waste must be established. support and the Province should reduce the Training opportunities must be available within reliance on per capita funding mechanisms. Manitoba for all water and wastewater operator Further options for joining regional libraries levels to ensure that appropriate personnel can should be considered, such as allowing the be hired locally. designation of parts of municipalities to The Province should allocate resources to regional library districts. coordinate the efforts of various Departments, The Province should establish a trust fund for municipalities and agencies to control weeds at the ongoing maintenance of the Trans-Canada the source. Trail in Manitoba.

The Province should review the taxation of Update: The Public Libraries Review park residences and impose taxation whereby Committee submitted its final report to municipalities are adequately compensated for Minister Robinson, recommending services used by permanent park residents. reviewing funding mechanisms and allowing the designation of parts of The policy papers developed for municipalities to regional library districts. each meeting are available on the As well, the Province allocated $1 million AMM website at www.amm.mb.ca. to assist the Manitoba Recreational Trails Association with the construction of the Trans Canada Trail.

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s part of the AMM’s yearly lobbying process, the AMM meets with A individual cabinet ministers to bring forward important municipal issues pertaining to each provincial department. At each meeting, the AMM

IGHLIGHTS discusses areas of key concern involving municipalities and that minister’s departmental portfolio. Following are some of the concerns that the AMM

H highlighted during this year’s ministerial meetings:

Aboriginal & Northern Affairs Courses for Level III and IV certification are only available by correspondence or by traveling out The AMM met with Minister Oscar Lathlin on of province. Training opportunities should be September 11. Highlights included: available in Manitoba in order to facilitate Delays in the treaty land entitlement (TLE) compliance with new Provincial requirements. process are costly and greater incentives are With Manitoba’s commitment to expanding wind required to ease the negotiation process. The energy capacity, there is an opportunity to train TLE process in Saskatchewan offers valuable OBBYING local people to build new facilities and perform

L insight regarding appropriate incentives and regular maintenance. Much of this skilled labour systems to support the selection and conversion is imported and the Province should promote the of land. development of a local skilled labour force. A review of the current TLE compensation structure should consider Saskatchewan’s Update:The Province recognizes the need system in order to seek alternative ways of in both of these areas and is working to pro- enhancing Manitoba’s TLE process. vide local training opportunities. Projects to address the high cost of healthy food and promote local food production in northern Agriculture, Food & Rural Initiatives communities are underway as part of the The AMM met with Minister Rosann Wowchuk Northern Healthy Foods Initiative. However, on February 22. Highlights included: there is a need to improve affordability of milk products. The mandate of the Manitoba Milk Flooding in 2005 highlighted the need for Prices Review Commission should be expanded enhanced disaster financial assistance in to include northern communities. Manitoba. There is a need for disaster assistance to fund permanent preventive Update: There are currently 6 TLEs in measures, rather than exclusively focusing on process and the Province will be working temporary, ad hoc initiatives. on them one by one. The proposed Bill 32 Economic development is an important priority Ð The Real Property Amendment Act that that requires a coordinated Provincial strategy. was not passed last session will be reintro- The Province must ensure that funding duced in the fall session. mechanisms are responsive to a range of local Advanced Education & Training priorities and initiatives. The AMM met with Minister Diane McGifford on New legislation regarding land and water September 11. Highlights included: resource planning must be coordinated to ensure consistency across Provincial September 1, 2006 marks the deadline for departments. Improved clarity and the certification of water and wastewater operators. enhanced use of scientific principles will As of this date all new employees must be increase the effectiveness of the legislation. appropriately certified.

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Bill 15: The Emergency Measures public buildings are safe, and they also

VERVIEW Amendment Act May 24, 2006 understand the benefits to standardizing codes across the province. Last May, the AMM made a presentation to the O Overall, Bill 30 clarifies the roles of both the Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs Province and municipalities in these important around Bill 15: The Emergency Measures areas. While this bill does mandate additional Amendment Act. responsibilities for municipalities, the AMM is Overall, the AMM was pleased to see the confident that by working closely with the Provincial Government introduce Bill 15, as it will department, Manitobans will benefit. allow municipalities to issue emergency prevention orders in advance of a disaster’s Bill 30 received Royal Assent on June 13, onset. This means that municipalities will be 2006. able to take action ahead of time and prevent

EGISLATIVE damages.

L The AMM did express concern that there is no Other bills passed during this guarantee that necessary preventative work will session of interest to the AMM be covered under the current Disaster Financial included: Assistance program. While the AMM is pleased that Bill 15 gives communities new tools to deal ¥ Bill 7: The Architects and with disasters, without accompanying financial Engineers Scope of Practice assistance many municipalities will still be Dispute Settlement Act Received unable to take any meaningful action. Royal Assent November 30th, 2005 Municipalities will benefit from Bill 15 and the ¥ Bill 13: The Conservation Districts ability to enact emergency preparedness orders. This will allow communities to take action to Amendment Act Received Royal Assent June 13, 2006 prevent damages when disasters are looming and to work to protect their communities. ¥ Bill 22: The Elections Reform Act Received Royal Assent June 13, 2006

Bill 15 received Royal Assent on June 13, 2006.

Bill 30: The Fires Prevention and Copies of all of the Emergency Response Act AMM’s presentations to June 5, 2006 the Legislative Standing The AMM presented to the Standing Committee Committees are available on Bill 30: The Fires Prevention and Emergency Response Act. on the AMM website at This is an important piece of legislation for www.amm.mb.ca municipalities as it mandates increased responsibilities for local authorities, primarily increased inspections on public buildings. Municipalities understand the need to ensure

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 10 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 31

Financial Statement Financial Statement Policy & Lobbying

ach year, the AMM monitors proposed leglsiation introduced in the

VERVIEW E Manitoba Legislature. During this year’s session, the AMM presented or submitted comments to legislative committees or ministers responsible

O for the following bills:

Provincial Land Use Bill 14: The Water Policy Review Rights Amendment Act June 5, 2006 Submission to the Department of The AMM made a Intergovernmental Affairs & presentation to the Trade—November 7, 2005 Standing Committee on Legislative Affairs regarding The Province updated the Bill 14: The Water Rights EGISLATIVE Provincial Land Use Policy Amendment Act. L (PLUP) prior to The Planning Act coming into force on Water protection is a January 1, 2006. Policy two central issue for municipal guides agricultural development governments. Developing and the amendment focused on the legislative framework enhancing clarity in planning for the protection of processes. The AMM raised Manitoba’s water has two key concerns regarding this involved enacting a number legislation. of bills and regulations designed to protect this First, the animal unit calculation valuable resource. A key should reflect differences based on species type issue for the AMM has been the need to have and confinement period since year-round adequate enforcement measures in place to confinement and pasturing operations each ensure compliance with the new rules. The have distinct manure management practices. If AMM expressed support for Bill 14 as it the PLUP does not account for these strengthens the enforcement process. differences, municipalities should be authorized to make suitable adjustments. The AMM also noted that while municipalities, through local conservation districts, have begun Secondly, the amendments make producers developing water plans to manage their water, responsible for soil surveys for new or expanded illegal drainage work does occur which affects livestock operations where such information is even the best laid plans. The AMM suggested not available. This will increase costs for many that while stronger enforcement measures are producers due to the widespread lack of detailed appreciated, additional resources should also be mapping in Manitoba. The Province is considered for the licensing process, as responsible for environmental concerns and the improving the process may reduce the amount costs of assessing soil suitability should not be of illegal work being done. shifted to individual producers. AMM continues to raise municipal concerns Bill 14 received Royal Assent on June 13, through the overall review of the Provincial Land 2006. Use Policies.

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 32 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 9

Financial Statement External Committees Financial Statement

President Ron Bell Councillor Rick Martel ¥ Federation of Canadian Municipalities ¥ “Tools for Change” Award Committee ¥ Provincial/Local Consultative Committee ¥ Certification of Water & Wastewater Plant on Infrastructure Operators Review Committee ¥ Federal Gas Tax Oversight Committee ¥ Manitoba Product Stewardship Board ¥ Infrastructure Council of Manitoba ¥ Prairie Grain Roads Program Councillor Bert Lagimodiere Management Committee ¥ MTS Buried Cable Committee ¥ Manitoba Airport Operators Committee Vice-President Garry Wasylowski ¥ Inter Utility Committee ¥ Provincial/Local Consultative Committee ¥ RCMP Human Resources Advisory on Infrastructure Committee ¥ Planning Act Review ¥ Prairie Grain Roads Program Management Mayor Stan Ward Committee ¥ “Tools for Change” Award Committee ¥ Lake Winnipeg Stewardship Board ¥ Building Officials Training Certificate ¥ KAP Water Management Working Group Program ¥ Building Standards Board Vice-President Lorne Boguski ¥ Manitoba Public Insurance Vehicle Fire ¥ Provincial/Local Consultative Committee Advisory Committee on Infrastructure ¥ Manitoba Product Stewardship Board ¥ Large Urban Policing Committee ¥ Hudson Bay Route Association Reeve Robert Misko ¥ Planning Excellence Awards Judging Councillor Doug Dobrowolski Panel ¥ Office of the Fire Commissioner Advisory Committee Reeve Roger Wilson ¥ Manitoba Emergency Services College ¥ Conservation District Commission Advisory Committee ¥ Conservation Agreements Board ¥ By-law Enforcement Working Group ¥ Manitoba Habitat Heritage Board ¥ Rivers West Committee ¥ Public Fire Safety & Prevention Advisory Councillor Art Rempel Committee ¥ Community Investment Support Program ¥ Manitoba Disaster Appeals Board ¥ “Tools for Change” Working Group ¥ Drainage Guidelines Committee ¥ Review of the Library Act ¥ Livestock Facilitated Community Consultation Program Mayor Shirley Kalynuik ¥ Sport Manitoba Committee Mayor Rene Maillard ¥ MTS Buried Cable Committee ¥ “Tools for Change” Working Group ¥ Medical First Response Advisory Reeve Alice Bourgouin Committee ¥ Manitoba Technical Erosion Committee ¥ Manitoba Disaster Appeal Board ¥ Biodiesel Committee Reeve William Danylchuk ¥ Manitoba Public Insurance Vehicle Fire Mayor Randy Sigurdson Advisory Committee ¥ Physician Resource Coordination Office ¥ MPIC Road Safety Coordination Policy Committee Committee

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 8 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 33

FinancialFinancial StatementStatement Executive & Staff

AMM Executive (Back Row, L to R)

Mayor Lorne Boguski, Urban Vice-President Reeve Garry Wasylowski, Rural Vice-President Mayor Ron Bell, President

Front Row Joe Masi, Executive Director

AMM Staff (Back Row L to R): Lynne Bereza, Communications Coordinator; Rachel Philippe, Senior Policy Analyst; Erika Rempel, Administrative Assistant, Policy & Communications; Donna Belbin, Events Coordinator; Patti De Baets, Finance Coordinator; and Julia Green, Administrative Assistant, Board & Administration Front Row L to R: Joe Masi, Executive Director; Linda Hargest, Director of Administration & Marketing; and Tyler MacAfee, Director of Policy & Communications

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 34 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 7

Financial Statement Board of Directors Financial Statement

AMM Board of Directors (L to R): Councillor Art Rempel, Eastern Urban Director; Councillor Richard Martel, Central Urban Director; Mayor Ron Bell, President; Mayor Stan Ward, Western Urban Director; Reeve William Danylchuk, Eastern Rural Director; Councillor Bert Lagimodiere, Northern Director; Reeve Garry Wasylowski, Rural Vice-President; Reeve Alice Bourgouin, Interlake Rural Director; Mayor Shirley Kalyniuk, Midwestern Urban Director; Reeve Robert Misko, Parklands Rural Director; Councillor Jae Eadie, City of Winnipeg Director; Mayor Randy Sigurdson, Interlake Urban Director; Mayor Lorne Boguski, Urban Vice- President; Reeve Roger Wilson, Midwestern Rural Director; Mayor Rene Maillard, Parklands Urban Director; Councillor Alan Ransom, Western Rural Director; Councillor Doug Dobrowolski, Central Rural Director; and Dale Lyle, MMAA President

AMM Social & Fiscal Issues Committee AMM Resource Management Committee Art Rempel, Doug Dobrowolski, Stan Ward, Bert Lagimodiere, William Danylchuk, Alice Robert Misko, Jae Eadie, Randy Sigurdson, Bourgouin, Roger Wilson, Shirley Kalyniuk, Alan and Rene Maillard Ransom, and Richard Martel

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 6 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 35 Financial Statement Executive Director’s Message

strong and effective municipal government. On the communications side of the AMM, our We have much yet to do in addressing our magazine and bulletins continue to improve and infrastructure deficit, but working with the Federal keep our membership informed on various and Provincial Governments over the coming initiatives of the AMM. As well, visits to the year, we can make significant progress in AMM website at www.amm.mb.ca has doubled addressing this key municipal issue. over the past two years. We attribute this I hope you enjoy this annual report and the increase to the website being easy to use, accomplishments we have made together in always up to date and offering a wealth of 2005/2006. resources to our membership. Our policy and lobbying activities continue to make good progress on the major issues facing Ron Bell, AMM President municipalities. These are outlined in more detail in the President’s message and in the rest of the annual report. I would like to thank our Board of Directors for its am pleased to provide the Executive support and guidance throughout the year, I Director’s message for the eighth annual including those Board members who are no report of the Association of Manitoba longer on our Board. Municipalities (AMM). To our staff at the AMM, I would sincerely like to On the financial side, the AMM and recognize the excellent work they do on behalf Municipalities Trading Company of of our Board and our membership. They are Manitoba Limited (MTCML) continue to be dedicated and professional in the performance strong, as shown in the financial statements of their duties and I could not do my job as in this report. MTCML sales increased Executive Director without their support. this past year, and as a result the AMM I would like to thank and acknowledge President was able to offer a rebate back to the Dale Lyle and Executive Director Mel Nott of the membership for the fifth consecutive year. This Manitoba Municipal Administrators Association year’s rebate was $500,000, bringing the total (MMAA) and all the members of MMAA for their rebates back to the membership to $1.75 million valuable contribution to the AMM. We truly over the past five years. We sincerely thank all value the partnership and excellent working municipalities for their continued use of our trading relationship between the AMM and MMAA. company. It is clear our members understand the Lastly, I would like to thank our membership for value they receive from the trading company, as their continued advice, support and illustrated in some of the members’ comments on encouragement. You havewelcomed our p. 27 of this report. We would also like to express Association to your offices on municipal visits, our appreciation and thanks to our official provided us with valuable feedback on various suppliers. They offer our membership excellent issues facing municipalities and you continue to products and services at discounted prices that serve your communities with dedication. are second to none. We hope you enjoy this annual report and we In terms of our events, this past year the AMM look forward to continuing to work on your behalf was able to offer two first-rate and affordable in the coming year. professional development courses for elected officials. Our other events, including the Annual Convention and Municipal Officials Seminar & Joe Masi, Executive Director Trade Show, were also well attended and are further highlighted on pages 22 and 23.

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 36 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 5 President’s Message Financial Statement

n behalf of the Board of Directors of every dollar going to municipal governments O of the Association of Manitoba Mu- in Canada, greater revenue sources are nicipalities, I am pleased to present the needed. While appreciated, one-time grants 2005/2006 Annual Report. The past and transfers are not enough to make a mean- year, the eighth in AMM history, was ingful impact on the serious infrastructure is- exciting, productive and even ground- sues facing our communities and do not allow breaking in some cases. community leaders to make long-term plans. Only through this examination will we be able One of the most significant events of the to meet the needs and expectations of all Mani- year for the AMM and our members took tobans. place on November 18, 2005. That is the day that the Province of Manitoba and the These developments with respect to infrastruc- Government of Canada signed the Canada- ture are the result of strong lobbying by the Manitoba Gas Tax Agreement, representing AMM and other organizations, and by you Ð $167.3 million in gas tax revenues to be invested municipal governments who face this deficit in cities and communities across Manitoba over every day. Our lobbying efforts have had an five years. All municipalities have now signed additional key result Ð an increase in public funding agreements and received their first pay- awareness around the infrastructure deficit. In ments. fact, recent media reports and polls strongly suggest that infrastructure renewal is now a top While the share of federal gas tax revenues priority for the public. Hopefully, with public municipalities now receive is appreciated and opinion driving the issue to the forefront of de- needed, we recognize that municipalities are fac- cision-making at both the Provincial and Fed- ing a much larger obstacle in the form of an ever eral levels, we will see increased financial re- increasing infrastructure deficit. Municipalities’ sources make their way into municipal budgets. main source of revenue is property taxes, yet municipal responsibilities span so much more An election year always means a changing of than basic property services today that it is diffi- the guardguard atat thethe AMM,AMM, andand wewe havehave seenseen some cult to keep pace with the added demands. The boardsome boardmembers members depart depart to take to on take other on chal- other result of this inequity is that municipalities cannot lenges.challenges. I’d like I’d liketo take to thank this opportunity Garry Wasylowski, to firstly afford to maintain their rapidly deteriorating infra- thankRural Vice-President,Garry Wasylowski, and AMM Lorne Rural Boguski, Vice Urban structure. President,Vice-President, for his for years their ofyears dedication of dedication to munici- to palmunicipal government government and the and AMM. the GarryAMM. and Lorne, I The federal government has acknowledged that haveGarry worked and I worked side by side-by-side side for a number for several of years a fiscal imbalance exists in Canada between all andyears, his and vast their knowledge knowledge of municipal of municipal issues issues three orders of government, and all three orders andwill besense greatly of humour missed willat our be greatlyboard table. missed I also at of government agree that the current financial ourbid farewellboard table. to Stan I would Ward, also Karen like toCaldwell, bid farewell Rick arrangement is not sustainable. The current mis- toMartel Stan and Ward, Jae Karen Eadie. Caldwell, These board and ???. members These match of revenues and responsibilities is not pro- boardlogged members many hours logged on behalf many longof the hours AMM on and I ductive and the time has come for a change. behalfwish them of the all AMM the best and in we their wish future them endeavors. all the More is needed than a simple one time transfer of bestThanks in their also future to the endeavors.rest of the boardI also thankfor their the surplus revenues, and all orders of government restcontinued of the dedicationboard for their and continuedcontribution dedication to the need to work toward the implementation of a sus- andAMM. contribution You are all to true the professionals AMM. You are whose all true work tainable plan to address the challenges facing professionalson behalf of our whose members work onis important behalf of ourand Canadian communities. membersappreciated. is important and appreciated. By the same token, we have been advocating for In closing, I must reserve my greatest thanks to a serious examination of the roles, responsibili- you, the members of the AMM. While we have ties and resources of all orders of government faced many trials, we have also gained much here in Manitoba. There is little doubt that our and I believe that over the past year we have most communities need help, and with only eight cents certainly achieved that most important milestone:

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 4 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 37 Financial Statement 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 Special Events & Announcements 20 Member Services 22 Events 22 Communications 24 MTCML 26 Financial Statement 28

AMM Executive Director Joe Masi and AMM President Ron Bell (Photo courtesy of Portage la Prairie Daily Graphic)

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 38 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 3 AMM Members Financial Statement

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

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 2 AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006 39 THE ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA MUNICIPALITIES

September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006

AMM Annual Report • September 1, 2005 to August 31, 2006