July 17, 2020 - County News County News

Friday, July 17, 2020 | Volume 7 2020 property assessment and tax notices mailed-out What’s Inside Municipal property tax notices were complaints against assessments. the last minute,” Minchin said. “To recently mailed out to Lacombe If the Assessment Review Board avoid all penalties, tax payments must 2 Transfer Station Closures County ratepayers and should be decides in favour of the complain- be received by last business day in appearing in mailboxes in the coming ant, the fee will be refunded. September.” 4 Public Hearing week. If you haven't received your • **NEW** In 2020, the property Tax payments are payable to La- 5 Safety First 2020 tax notice, contact Lacombe tax payment deadline has been combe County (no later than Septem- County’s Assessment Department extended to September 30, 2020 ber 30, 2020), and can be made using 7 Food Bank Support at 403-782-6601. to better align with the education one of the following options: “We encourage ratepayers to be requisition deadline for non-resi- 8 Construction Updates proactive and make sure their tax dential properties. • By mail to: Lacombe County, RR3, Lacombe, AB T4L 2N3 Mailed 8-9 Operations notice was received by Lacombe • Property owners who miss the County,” said Michael Minchin, Direc- payments must be postmarked by 10 Weed Alerts tax payment deadline will have Post no later than Sep- tor of Corporate Services. “This year’s a 6% penalty applied on Octo- property tax payment deadline has tember 30th of the current year. If 14-15 Subdivision Activity & Map ber 1, 2020, on the outstanding the postmark is illegible or miss- been extended to September 30, taxes owing. 2020 to better align with the education ing, the actual date of receipt by 16 Ellis Bird Farm • An additional 10% penalty will requisition deadline for non-residential Lacombe County will apply. be added on December 1 for properties.” • In Person: At the County Office 17 Lacombe Regional Tourism all taxes remaining unpaid after (40403 Rge Rd 274, Lacombe November 30. 18-19 Council Highlights The County’s tax notice is a combined County, AB) during office hours. assessment and tax notice. “Like other online bill payments, there Please note that due to the CO- 22-23 Around the County • Anyone wishing to appeal their may be a processing delay for online VID-19 pandemic, office hours are assessment has 60 days from tax payments, so people who plan currently restricted. Please phone the notice of assessment date to pay their taxes through electronic ahead to confirm current hours. www.lacombecounty.com to do so. A per parcel fee will banking should not to leave it until be charged for people making CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

Publication Mail Agreement No 43726064

Return undeliverable items to: Lacombe County RR3, Lacombe, AB T4L 2N3

County News is available to read on our website every month. If you wish to stop receiving County News by mail, email [email protected] with your mailing address and we will take you off our mailing list. CountyCounty News News - -August July 17, 18, 2020 2017 SAFETY REMINDER for recreation & public spaces

The COVID-19 public health crisis is not over. All Albertans should now be acutely aware of their role in preventing the spread of COVID-19.

Please stay away from local beaches and other public spaces if you are unable or unwilling to adhere the direction of Health to: • maintain a physical distance of 2 metres from people outside of a family cohort, • stay home if feeling ill, • practice good hygiene.

Thank you for your cooperation Reminder: Lacombe Regional Waste during this time. Services to require proof of residency Lacombe Regional Waste Verification of residency will be visually confirmed by the attendants and no personal Services Commission Retirement information will be recorded. This information is collected under the authority of Section 33(c) of the Freedom of Information and Announcement Protection of Privacy Act. As of July 1, 2020, all Lacombe Regional Congratulations to Greg Couper on your upcoming retirement Waste Services Commission (LRWSC) ANY residential loads that cannot show proof from LRWSC! Greg has worked at the Prentiss and Alix/Mirror Transfer Transfer Sites requires residents who are of residency within Lacombe County will be Stations for the last 24+ years. accessing the facilities to present a proof turned away. This will ensure only legitimate of residency to attendants. rate paying residents are using LRWSC waste LRWSC thanks you for your dedication and hard work, and wishes you transfer sites, and will eliminate any out-of- all the best during your retirement! This can be in the form of a utility bill with a county residents (non-contributing members) service address or a driver's license with a from utilizing these sites. Please contact Greg’s last day at the Alix/Mirror Transfer Site will be Saturday August physical address (PO Box or RR# WILL NOT LRWSC with any questions or concerns at 1, 2020. BE accepted). (403) 782-8970. Lacombe Regional Waste Services Commission Site Closures for Repairs The following Lacombe Regional Waste Services Commission Transfer Stations (LRWSC) will be closed for repairs. Please go to the following alternate designated site during these times. Thank you for your patience and understanding while we complete these significant repairs. Visit www.lrwsc.ca for hours of operation and other LRWSC information. Spruceville Transfer Station Transfer Station Alix/Mirror Transfer Station

Closed August 4, 5, 8, 11, & 12th. Closed August 18, 19, 22, 25, & 26th. Closed September 10, 11, 12, 17, & 18th.

Please go to the Prentiss Transfer Station on Please go to the Bentley Transfer Station on Please go to the Prentiss Transfer Station on these days. Prentiss hours of operation are these days. We will be temporarily opening the these days. Prentiss hours of operation are Mon-Sat from 9:00am to 4:45pm. Spruceville Bentley Transfer Station during the closure of the Mon-Sat from 9:00am to 4:45pm. Alix/Mirror Transfer Station will reopen Saturday August Eckville site. Temporary hours at Bentley will be Transfer Station will reopen Saturday September 15th at 8:30am for regular hours. Tuesday to Saturday from 9:00am to 4:45pm. 19th at 9:00am for regular hours. The Eckville site will reopen for regular hours Saturday August 29th from 8:00am to 11:45am. The Bentley site will return to regular hours Saturday August 29th from 1:00pm to 4:45pm. 2 July 17, 2020 - County News

CLOSURES | Waste Transfer Station Repairs

Spruceville Eckville Transfer Alix/Mirror Transfer Station Station Transfer Station Update your Mailing Address! Closed: August 4, Closed: August Closed: Sept. 10, 5, 8,11 & 12 18,19, 22, 25 & 26 11, 12, 17, & 18 If your address has changed, make sure to notify us. Call 403- 782-6601 or email [email protected]. Visit the Prentiss Visit the Bentley Visit the Prentiss We also recommend updating the title of your property with Transfer Station Transfer Station Transfer Station Alberta Land Titles. You can obtain a form from us, by calling during this closure during this closure during this closure 780-427-2742, or online https://www.alberta.ca/land-titles- overview.aspx (under Change of address and name).

Environmental Improvement Lacombe County fully reopens Grant updated for 2021 office, public works building Lacombe County office and public through our online service request por- Updated program will be called the Community works building fully reopened to the tal, or through our Facebook page. Engagement Program, and will be open to a wider range public on June 22, 2020, after the Please stay home and away of County residents & individuals. County reduced access to its build- ings in mid-March as a response to the from County facilities if you are unwell. Lacombe County's Environmental The new program will be for a COVID-19 public health crisis. Improvement Grant was approved on three-year term and will focus “While COVID-19 continues to be Face-to-face Council meetings will August 22, 2013, with the first round on engaging residents in a concern for us, we are excited to continue. Municipal staff and the public of funding was given out in 2014. environmental sustainability. It will reopen our doors fully to the public in are encouraged not to gather in Council Since then, 13 different community be made up of three components: chambers unless participating in the organizations have benefited from a manner that is safe for both staff and • a wetland education program, visitors to our offices,” said Tim Tim- meeting. Lacombe County is allowing the grant since then and $65,500 in people to virtually attend Council and funding has been given out. • an environmental stewardship mons, County Manager for Lacombe award, County. “We ask that everyone follows MPC meetings via Zoom (full details Some of the initiatives supported • a resident environmental the safety measures put in place so are on our website at www.lacombe- include: pollinator projects, water sustainability product program. that our staff are protected and are county.com). Highlights of our meetings monitoring programs, riparian able to continue providing top-notch are posted to the website shortly after assessments, community gardens, Lacombe County would like service.” each County Council meeting. to thank all of the community wildlife habitat creation, tree planting GENERAL PREVENTION TIPS projects, etc. groups who participated in the There will be several changes for Environmental Improvement visitors should be aware of: Lacombe County urges everyone to At the July 9th, 2020, regular council Grant for their commitment to 1. Hand sanitizing stations are continue following public health guide- meeting, council voted in favour the environment and for their available upon entering our of- lines to continue preventing the spread of changing the program for 2021. innovative projects over the years. of COVID-19, including: These changes include a new fice to limit the spread of germs. funding program that will focus on If you have any questions please • Practicing physical distancing feel free to contact Jennifer Berry, 2. Physical distancing (2-metres/6 engaging a wider range of County feet) must be adhered to. and keep at least 6 feet apart residents on an individual basis, Lacombe County Environmental from other people. therefore the previous funding will no Coordinator at 403-782-8959 or 3. Visitors attending meetings with email [email protected]. staff are required to fill out a • Washing your hands often with longer be available to organizations soap and water for at least 20 or groups. questionnaire for contact-tracing purposes. seconds, or use an alcohol- based hand sanitizer. 4. Customers will be asked for their name and phone number • Covering coughs and sneezes for contact tracing purposes. with a tissue or your elbow. 5. Protective barriers have been • Avoiding touching your face with installed and will remain in place unwashed hands. until the COVID-19 public health • Avoiding non-essential travel. crisis has been resolved. • Watching for COVID-19 symp- 6. Masks will be provided for any- toms, including but not limited one who wishes to use them. to: cough, fever, shortness of While our office is open for business, breath, runny nose or sore Lacombe County reminds anyone with throat. concerns about coming to see us in person that you can contact us by phone (403-782-6601), email ([email protected]), 3 CountyCounty News News - -August July 17, 18, 2020 2017 breaks ground on arena expansion & library project

The Town of Blackfalds welcomed dignitaries, councillors, board members, owner of the Blackfalds Bulldogs AJHL team, and contractors as they broke ground on June 19, 2020 on the $24.6M expansion of the arena and new library. The project will include an additional ice surface, a $1M contribution by the Junior A Team for dressing rooms, offices, and a new $6.6M library - one of the largest in . “I am very excited that we are finally In his speech, Member of Parliament Blaine beginning a project that is going to bring so Calkins acknowledged those who made this much success and opportunity to the citizens of vision a reality. “The forward-thinking of the Blackfalds,” said Mayor Richard Poole. “Working people that are here, the business community, with Delnor Construction, Eagle Builders, and the can-do attitude, the elected representatives ACI Architects is going to allow our community that [the Town] has had over the years, makes to move forward with confidence,” he added. Lacombe County Reeve Paula Law (above right) Blackfalds one of the best places to work live, congratulated the Town of Blackfalds on the ground- Slated to be completed in 2021, the expansion and raise a family. Congratulations from my colleagues in Ottawa. It’s nice to see that the breaking of the arena expansion and library project. will provide a welcoming community hub and will be a centerpiece for residents and visitors spirit of hope, optimism and resilience is alive and Lacombe County provided $2,391,000 for the project alike. “Council looks forward to opening a true well.” ($666,000 for the library portion and $1,725,000 for the multiplex that will be enjoyed by citizens all over This venture is a true community collaboration. arena expansion). Alberta,” said Poole. Through awarding the construction contract to Eagle Builders, the project will provide jobs for many central Albertans. With the efforts of the Dual Ice Development Society (DIDS), whose Lacombe County is holding aim is to fundraise a million dollars to help bring items such as optimal seating, score boards a PUBLIC HEARING and community spaces, plus the commitment of volunteers who sit on the Recreations, Parks and you’re invited... and Culture and Library Boards; this project will continue to help Blackfalds provide the very best facilities for all community members and visitors. INTERMUNICIPAL September 10, 2020 DEVELOPMENT PLAN UPDATE Presentation begins at 9:00 am at the BYLAW 1328/20 Lacombe County Office (Council Chambers) (located 2½ miles west of Highway 2 at the The Councils of Lacombe County, , County of 2020 Tax intersection of Spruceville Road and Highway 12) Stettler No. 6, the Summer Village of Rochon Sands and the Summer Village of White Sands have recognized the need to cooperate in the planning of future land use and development around Buffalo Installment Lake. The purpose of this Bylaw is to make administrative updates to the Buffalo Lake Intermunicipal Development Plan (BLIDP). Payment Plan The primary changes to the document include new definitions, clarification of administrative processes and rearranging the document to make it easier to read. The update does not change (TIPP) growth node areas, densities, uses, or other amendments that substantially change the intent of the BLIDP. The Tax Installment Payment Plan (TIPP) is a simple, secure and HOW DO I COMMENT? convenient way to pay your annual Anyone wishing to comment on the proposed bylaw will have property taxes. When you sign up, an opportunity to do so at a public hearing. If you are unable monthly payments are automatically to attend the hearing, written submissions can be made to the County. You will, however, need to ensure that your comments withdrawn from your bank account are received by the County prior to the date of the hearing. Your on the 15th of each month. To comments can be sent by: obtain an application form, contact EMAIL [email protected], LOCATION MAP FAX 403-782-3820, or Lacombe County at (403) 782-6601 MAIL RR 3, Lacombe AB, T4L 2N3. or visit www.lacombecounty.com. Dale Freitag, RPP, MCIP All submissions will be public information. Director of Planning Services, Lacombe County For more information, please contact Planning Services at Email: [email protected] 403-782-8389 or visit the County’s website at: Phone: 403-782-8389 www.lacombecounty.com

4 July 17, 2020 - County News Watch for Tax Notices (Continued from front page) Tax Installment

• Deposited in the envelope mailbox located at the road entrance to the County office (Do not submit cash). PAYMENT PLAN • Electronically: Through electronic payment methods, including in- ternet banking and for businesses, electronic funds transfer (EFT). Funds must be received in the County's bank account no later than September 30th. Sign up TODAY • By Credit Card: visit www.lacombecounty.com and pay through for the monthly plan. Automatic OptionPay, a secure third-party site, to make payment by credit card. Please note that there is a fee for this service. Lacombe County does Budget-friendly not receive any of the credit card fees. Contact Lacombe County at (403) 782-6601 or Simple • Tax Installment Payment Plan: Those enrolled in the County's tax visit www.lacombecounty.com for more details. installment plan {TIPPs) will see their payment adjusted to reflect the Convenient new tax rates for 2020 on their next monthly payment. PLEASE NOTE: Due due dates and penalties DO NOT APPLY to rate- payers enrolled in the Tax Installment Payment Plan (TIPP), which allows property taxes to be paid on a monthly basis instead of one single payment. Application forms for enrollment are available at the Lacombe County Administration office or on the Lacombe County website. Development Incentive Grant Town of Blackfalds Home to available for of Mirror Inclusive Playground The Town of Blackfalds began Did you know: Lacombe County has a Development Incentive Pro- the journey to build an inclusive gram (DIG) aimed at encouraging entrepreneurs to locate their busi- playground in September of nesses in the Hamlet of Mirror. 2018. The Town approached Variety– A Children’s Charity organization, who represents How does it work? the idea that in an age where The program offers a grant based on a percentage of the property less physical activity occurs taxes. Eligible commercial or industrial businesses can qualify for a in the average population, rebate of up to 100% of the municipal portion of their property taxes children living with disabilities for a period of 10 years (decreasing by 10% each year for 10 years). experience many barriers with Ready to take a vacation from municipal property taxes? being physically active. contributed $50,000.00. “Properly designed fully inclusive “These playgrounds are very Interested?? Contact the Planning and playgrounds create a physical important to have in the community. avenue for children with disabilities We want everyone to feel welcome Development Department today at 403-782-8389! to play as well as for parents and included. We are thankful for or other caregivers who may the partnerships from Variety, the have disabilities themselves to Optimist Club County and CFEP take children to a safe, inclusive that have allowed this dream to environment,” said Larry Horeczy, become a reality,” shared Mayor Co-Managing Director with Variety. Richard Poole of Blackfalds. “Blackfalds did not have a fully inclusive playground, and the Town The playground will feature a was in support of working with our dual zip-line, a two-bay swing charity to bring one to its community set, spinning net climber, sensory members.” panels, five-person see-saw, a quiet seating area, and round benches for Due to the current economy, parents. fundraising for the playground has been the biggest challenge for both With the help of at least 50 parties, but with the support from volunteers and the donations of Lacombe County, the Optimist supplies and services from local Club of Blackfalds, and several businesses, Variety and the Town businesses and service clubs from of Blackfalds broke ground on the both the Town and the County, the project in the summer of 2019. The donations have helped make the playground is located at the corner playground possible. of Vista Trail and Westbrooke Rd. in Blackfalds. The Town of Blackfalds committed $125,000.00 as approved by Council, and Lacombe County 5 CountyCounty News News - -August July 17, 18, 2020 2017 SAFETY FIRST Impaired driving: Worth the risk? On the whole, Albertans understand the years, with 2017 having the lowest save lives by making the smart decision use can reduce many cognitive the danger of impaired driving. The number of fatalities on record at 37. to find a safe way home instead of driv- and motor skills required to drive number of people killed by a legally However, there was still one in ten driv- ing impaired. safely, such as tracking, reaction impaired driver (i.e., by alcohol and/or ers involved in a fatal collision who was time, visual function, concentration, drugs) has decreased significantly over legally impaired. Even one driver could Facts to Know: short-term memory, and divided • Impaired driving collisions tend attention. Combining cannabis to be more frequent during with alcohol further intensifies the the summer months than effects on driving skills, even if the in cooler seasons (2013 – doses of either substance are low. 2017). • The effects of consuming cannabis • The majority of impaired driving edibles take longer to kick in and crashes happen at night. In last much longer than inhaling the 2017, over half (53.3%) of drug. It may take up to two hours to impaired driving casualty feel effects, which can last 12 hours collisions occurred between or longer. 7:00 pm and 3:00 am. According to Health Canada’s 2019 • On average over the last five Canadian Cannabis Survey, 26% of years, more than 6,000 people who had used cannabis in the people were convicted of past 12 months reported they had impaired driving in Alberta driven within two hours of using canna- each year. bis, and 43% of those respondents did so within the past 30 days. • Research shows cannabis

Non-medical masks, including homemade cloth masks, can help prevent the spread COVID-19. They are another tool to use in places where it’s difficult to keep two metres from other people for extended periods of time – such as public transit, grocery stores, pharmacies, hair salons, airplanes and some retail shops.

Masks do not replace proper hygiene, physical distancing or isolation to prevent the spread.

1 2 3 4 5 6

Wash/sanitize your hands.

SAFELY PUTTING Inspect the mask, holding Open fully to cover from Adjust the mask to your If mask has stiff edge, Keep your nose, mouth it by the ties or loops. the bridge of your nose face so there are no pinch to close gaps and chin covered at all times. A MASK ON Discard if damaged or dirty. to your chin. gaps on the side. between nose and mask. Avoid touching the mask.

1 2 3 4 5

Wash/sanitize Wash/sanitize your hands. your hands.

SAFELY TAKING Remove it from the back by Discard the mask immediately releasing ties or loops. Do not if disposable. Wash thoroughly OFF A MASK touch the front of the mask. if reusable.

alberta.ca/masks

6 July 17, 2020 - County News MIRROR CORNER Municipal Food Drive Challenge sees local support of foodbanks At the end of June, staff and council from 1,096lbs of food and $957 in support of Lacombe County, the City of Lacombe, the foodbanks in Mirror, Clive, Lacombe Town of Blackfalds and Village of Clive and Blackfalds, as a way to help those in challenged each other to collect food and need within these communities. money for their local food banks. In these uncertain times, local foodbanks Altogether, the four municipalities raised are always in need of donations.

books and movies, or access high-speed Wi-Fi Internet. Thanks to Lacombe County, you can now connect to the world at Mirror Public Library. Mirror Royal Canadian Legion Branch 2020 Mirror Dog Tags 189 - 5015 50th Avenue A license is required for all dogs in Meat Draws Saturday at 4 p.m. General Mirror. As of February 1, 2020, the cost meetings second Sunday at 1 p.m. is $30 for an altered dog, and $50 for (unless otherwise posted). an unaltered dog. For more information Mirror Skate Park please call (403) 782-6601 or visit www. Located across the street by the lacombecounty.com (County Services community hall. Meetings occur the >Hamlet of Mirror>Policies/Bylaws>Dog second Tuesday of month. We love local Control). Mirror and District Museum Friends of the Mirror Library Society Meetings are on the first Monday of the The library is open Wednesdays 1 month at 7 p.m. Call 403-788-3828 for businesses! p.m. - 7 p.m. If you are interested in the more information. library, we invite you to join our Mirror Library Board. Your interest and input For Rent We are looking for Mirror are welcomed! Large room in Mirror Business Centre, for rent by month or day. Contact Jim businesses to feature in the Mirror Corner. Jolly Seniors Sturgeon 403-788-2380 or Tasha Pancake breakfast every second Sunday Conway ATB 403-788-3001 If you operate a business in the Mirror area and want to be from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. CN Rail crossing delays profiled in County News, please email communications@ Booking Mirror Community Hall If you experience delays longer than 20 lacombecounty.com with a write-up and photos of your business. Call Lisa 403-788-3890 or cell 403-505- minutes at the Mirror rail yard crossing, 3894. call CN Rail at 1-800-465-9239. Follow Mirror Library the prompts and be ready to provide We'd love to hear from you! Join us Wednesdays from 1 p.m. to 7 details shown on the crossing signal p.m. Check out our new selection of mast to CN personnel. Transport Canada may be reached at 1-888-463-0521. 7 CountyCounty News News - -August July 17, 18, 2020 2017 CONSTRUCTION NOTIFICATIONS Notice of Closure and Detour Notice of Road Construc- Notice of Closure for for servicing construction tion: Range Road 25-1 Construction

A road closure due to Lacombe Area West Servicing Crews are completing road construction work on There is a road/bridge closure due to bridge Project construction began on June 30, 2020. The closure Range Road 25-1 (West of 36, 25, 24 & 13-41- construction between July 15 to July 29 to facili- is to facilitate the construction for the West Area Servicing 25 W4),from July 7, 2020 until August 12, 2020 tate the removal of an existing bridge structure Project, and will impact Range Road 27-1 (Fairview Road), (weather permitting). and realign the road to the new structure on extending north from Highway 12 to Township Road 41-0. Range Road 25 (Lockhart Road) over Rainy Please drive with caution in this area and obey all Creek, located 22 km northwest of Bentley (NW A detour is in place. Please watch for and obey posted construction signs. 8-41-2-W5). signage. The road will be closed until August 15, 2020 (weather permitting). A detour will be set up on Township Road 41-3 (one mile south of Centreview Road), running Road Construction on Range west to Range Road 3-0. Please drive with cau- Rd 25-1 from Twp Rd 42-0 tion in this area, and ensure you watch for and (), 5.4kms obey posted signage. The bridge is on Lockhart south to NW 13-41-25 W4. Road near Centreview Road.

Centreview Road (Twp Rd 41-2) Lockhart Road (Range Rd 2-5) West Area Servicing Project nearing completion

The recent wet weather has caused some delays for crews, but progress continues on the $8-million West Area Servicing Project.

Work is nearing completion for the underground portion of this project. Once this section is completed, crews will be moving north of Highway 12, and will tie into the lines coming from the City of Lacombe under the QEII.

With the underground component almost complete, focus will soon shift on the reclamation work on the impacted area. Once complete, the West Area Servicing Project will see water and wastewater services extended to properties on the west side of QEII, and included underground services and the construction of a lift station.

8 July 17, 2020 - County News OPERATIONS Forshee bridge replacement & road realignment

Crews have been working hard to replace the Forshee bridge over the Blindman River and realign the road to remove a significant curve that posed a hazard to road users.

"The County appreciates the community support for this project. One of the local land owners impacted by this project worked with the County to facilitate the new road alignment. That realignment allows us to connect the road with the new bridge structure safely, and they recognized how much it would benefit the community," said Project Manager Bryce Maschio.

Work will continue on this project over the summer, with hopes to have the new bridge and road open by the end of August (weather permitting).

DO YOU HAVE GRAVEL?

To ensure we have a reliable supply of gravel to maintain our County roads, Lacombe County is always on the lookout for new gravel sources. Gravel is an important, non-renewable resource necessary for construction and maintenance of roads.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I THINK I HAVE GRAVEL ON MY LAND? If you think you have gravel on your property, and you wish to investigate further, please contact the County office at 403-782-8379 and speak with the Operations Department. County staff will come out to meet with you and arrange for testing. While the testing involves digging a test hole or holes, it is done in the least invasive way practical.

There is no obligation on the part of the Land Owner if suitable gravel is found. The County will dis- cuss options and work with the land owner on a possible agreement for access and use of the land.

IS THE GROUND ARE THERE GRAVEL PITS DO YOU HAVE LOW LYING ROCKY? NEARBY? PROPERTY?

DO YOU HAVE A CREEK/RIVER BED ON HAVE YOU FOUND ROCKS DURING YOUR PROPERTY? EXCAVATION WORK?

WWW.LACOMBECOUNTY.COM — TWITTER @LACOMBECOUNTY — 403.782.8379 9 CountyCounty News News - -August July 17, 18, 2020 2017 AGRICULTURE / WEED ALERTS

Baby's Breath (Noxious): Infestations can be caused from floral arrangements Identification: productive. do not flower until the third year most effective control method Stems: have numerous Roots: are large and woody when flower buds develop. combines hand picking with branches. Many infestations are caused chemical control. Leaves: are opposite and About: Baby’s Breath was by an escape from floral Chemical: please check the lance shaped. Leaves are not introduced from Europe as an arrangements. current crop protection guide or noticeable when the plants are ornamental. The perennial, call the county for more in bloom. noxious weed is commonly Control: information. Flowers: are small, white, and found in floral displays. Grazing: not palatable to numerous. The flower has 5 Seedling plants emerge in livestock. Prevention: petals and a sweet scent. early spring and once matured Mechanical: regular mowing Prevent floral arrangements Seeds: are black and kidney will develop a deep and thick can reduce seed production from escaping into surrounding shaped. This plant is highly penetrating root system. Plants but must be repeated. The environments.

Canada Thistle (Noxious): Colony-forming aggressive perennial Identification: by the wind. Buried seeds can overgrazed pastures. Under season gradually depletes Stems: are grooved, upright, remain dormant for up to 20 the Alberta Weed Control Act, the food energy stored in hollow and woody, branching years. Canada Thistle is a noxious the root system. To succeed, near the top, and grow 0.5 m weed. several years of effort must be to 1.5 m tall. About: Due to its extensive, committed. Leaves: are lance shaped, creeping root system, the Control: Chemical: please check the dark green, shiny, and Thistle is well adapted for Grazing: sheep and goats current crop protection guide alternating. Leaf edges can periods of drought. It has been will readily graze Thistles. or call the county for more vary between smooth with no estimated that individual plants Invasive plants should never information. spines to irregularly shaped can live up to two years, but be considered as forage. with spines. plants are continually replaced Cultivation: does not reach the Prevention: In non-cropland Flowers: form at the ends by new shoot systems. deeper roots and produces maintain a healthy plant cover of stems in clusters of one Canada Thistle can thrive in small root pieces that rapidly and to re-seed disturbed to several. The flowers are many conditions, but it cannot develop into new plants. Not areas as soon as possible. often purple, urn shaped, with tolerate waterlogged soil or the best option for control. Avoid overgrazing to prevent spineless bracts. complete shade. Thistle does Mechanical: repeated mowing establishment of thistles. Seeds: are mostly dispersed best in disturbed areas and throughout the growing

Common Tansy (Noxious): Don't plant this perennial forb Identification: About: Common Tansy is a full sun and fertile, well-drained eliminate re-growth from Stems: are branched, erect, perennial forb that reproduces soil. rootstock. The most effective and often purplish-red. There by both seed and short control method combines are many stems per plant and rhizomes (underground Control: mowing and using a grow up to 1.5m tall. horizontal roots). This weed Grazing: unpalatable to registered chemical to Leaves: alternate on the stem forms dense stands and the grazers. control. and are deeply divided into plants contain alkaloids that Cultivation: stems can re-grow Chemical: please check the numerous narrow, individual are toxic to both humans and from severed roots, therefore, current crop protection guide leaflets with toothed edges. livestock if consumed. Cases cultivation is not an effective or call the county for more Flowers: are yellow, numerous, of livestock poisoning are rare control option. information. and button-like. because most grazing animals Mechanical: regular mowing Seeds: are yellowish brown find Tansy unpalatable. can reduce seed production Prevention: Gardeners should with short five-toothed crowns. Common Tansy grows best in but must be repeated to not purchase Common Tansy.

Common Toadflax (Noxious):Check garden seed mixes for contents! Identification: erupt in July and August. but reproduction is primarily by Control: Stems: are erect, hairless, and Seeds: are winged, disk- sprouting from its creeping root Grazing: not palatable to are generally unbranched. shaped, and dark brown to system. As the root systems livestock. Leaves: are soft, lance-shaped, black. Each plant contains spread, they crowd out the Cultivation: repeated cultivation pale green, and numerous. 5000 seeds that are viable up natural vegetation. The Alberta can effectively destroy the root Leaves are mainly alternate to 10 years. Weed Control Act has deemed system. Equipment should be and are attached directly to the it a noxious weed. Common thoroughly cleaned after. stem. About: Common Toadflax was Toadflax is easily confused with Mechanical: mowing can assist Flowers: are bright yellow, brought from Europe over 100 Leafy Spurge before flowering, by starving root systems. arranged alternately in dense years ago as an ornamental but toadflax stems do not Chemical: please check the spikes at the plant and is now serious contain the milky latex that current crop protection guide ends of stems. problem in North America. This spurge does. or call the county for more 10 Flowers often perennial weed makes seed, information. AGRICULTURE / WEED ALERTS July 17, 2020 - County News AGRICULTURE FOR RENT Pasture Sprayers

Lacombe County Agriculture Services Has Pasture Sprayers for County Residents to Rent

RENTAL RATE - $50.00/DAY DEPOSIT - $200.00 (deposit refundable when sprayer returned in good condition)

 Pull type - 400 gallon water capacity, 20 gallon/acre coverage

 Designed for spraying range and pasture in rough terrain

 Has additional hand gun system and fence line spraying nozzle  Simple to operate Lacombe County’s Roadside  Can be pulled by trucks OR tractors To book a sprayer, please call Mowing Program starts soon! 403.782.8959 Lacombe County reminds These items could include: residents to be mindful about • Fence Wire what is left in the county • Telephone Wire ditches. • Large Rocks Who's in your field? • Posts Please move debris • Any other material that completely away, or place Meet Nicole Baskier, may cause damage debris into the fence line, Lacombe County's Weed to prevent damage to the & Pest Inspector for 2020. mowing equipment. Nicole has been appointed by Lacombe County to conduct our weed inspections for 2020.

Please be respectful of ALL County staff and follow COVID-19 safety precautions when interacting with them (keeping a 2-metre distance, not approaching if feeling unwell, masking if appropriate, etc.)

11 CountyCounty News News - -August July 17, 18, 2020 2017 AGRICULTURE The Path to Protein Perhaps the hottest topic in 4R’s are the Right Source of fertilizer at the Right in some cases for some products, but not all. The agronomy right now is protein Rate at the Right Time in the Right Place. These four reason for spraying the top dress nitrogen is machinery production in hard red spring principles have become the pillars of a good fertility logistics, minimizing crop trample. The reason we wheat. Central Alberta has plan. As it pertains to wheat protein each principle is target the application right before a rain event is to had great success growing just as important as the next. wash the nitrogen (liquid urea) into the soil for the roots consistent wheat crops to effectively absorb, not the leaves. with consistent yields and Right Source: There are infinite nitrogen products on consistent quality, but also the market. Ammonium (NH4+) found in liquid products Now I’m sure most of you are questioning the consistently inconsistent such as Ammonium Thio-Sulphate (ATS: 15-0-0-20) economics of applying an extra 30 lbs of N in a protein content. When it and Urea Ammonium Nitrate (UAN: 28-0-0) are not separate sprayer pass for a protein “bump” (a very Calvin Ireland comes to protein, it's all about meant for foliar application through flat fan nozzles, unscientific unit of measure that is not guaranteed nitrogen. Apply too much especially post anthesis (after flowering) when the crop and largely unknown due to various environmental nitrogen during seeding and canopy has closed in. These products are meant to be factors). While these reservations are valid, the only we risk the crop laying down soil applied, otherwise they will cause leaf burn that will outcome that is guaranteed is the one where we do flat, complicating harvest do more harm than good. However, Urea 46-0-0, most nothing. Calculating return on investment within a operations and sacrificing commonly applied as a dry granular in the spring, can commodity market based on protein is a moving target

quality. Apply too little nitrogen also be applied to foliage in a liquid form. to say the least. Grain premiums and discounts can and we sacrifice yield. Nitrogen is all about balance, swing anywhere from $0.40/bu to $1.50/bu dependant Right Rate: How much extra nitrogen is necessary on a myriad of factors that are as much in our control itis not just about the amount of nitrogens, but the right to achieve the protein boost we want? Studies show amount at the right time. as the weather. But the one thing we can influence is no less than 30 lbs of actual nitrogen is required to agronomic management. Traditionally the crops full nutritional needs are increase protein levels by approximately 1%. supplied during spring seeding in the furrow. In a wet year, such as the one we are experiencing, we Right Time: Nitrogen applications prior to the 5-leaf can really notice the leaching symptoms from heavy Logistically this works very well, making a single pass stage contribute more towards yield. So, to influence through the field minimizing soil disturbance and and frequent rains, dragging that nitrogen below the protein, the later the better. The recommendation is to rooting zone in the soil profile essentially starving the compaction. But agronomically we need to do more. apply the 30 lbs of nitrogen post anthesis right before Supplying our crop nutrition upfront all at once would crop. Supplying another meal later on in the maturity of a rain. At this stage, the plant is entirely focussed on a crop’s development could prove more beneficial this be like eating breakfast, lunch and supper all before putting all of its energy into the seed. 9:00 AM then not eating again for the rest of the day. year than others. Right Place: It is often misunderstood that spraying To assist with proper nutrition management, industry Submitted by Calvin Ireland C.C.A., liquid fertilizer must mean the nutrients are absorbed Central AB Co-op (Lacombe) partners created the 4R’s of Nutrient Stewardship. The by the leaf and enter the plant foliarly. That is true D&M Concrete teams up with Cilantro & Chive for local children's initiative Cilantro & Chive was thrilled to see children and youth who are dealing FACES and host guests, and in true with complex addiction and/or mental fashion support was better than ever health needs. In addition to individual as we re-opened our doors and patios therapy, the team also provides groups for dine in this month. June’s “Dad for both parents and youth to assist Bod” burger was the perfect kick-off to in dealing with issues like anxiety, summer! depression, addiction and other mental health concerns. This team Lacombe’s Greg and Jason Lunn of works closely with school partners, the D&M Concrete Products Ltd. (whose Primary Care Network as well as the main office is based in Lacombe Lacombe Hospital and Care Centre. County) helped provide the creative juices for this stack of a burger which Your support of our beloved Burger included an Alberta beef patty, jack of the Month Program, and the cheese, bacon, mushrooms, crispy generosity of the Lunn brothers activities through peer connection (Above) June BOTM the “Dad onions, sunny fried egg, sliced and D&M Concrete who stepped and outdoor physical activity. BOTM Bod”, created in collaboration tomato, mixed greens, chipotle aioli, up to MATCH our donation, means proceeds will help cover costs for with local guest chef’s Greg and avocado crema and a pickle spear on $3,068 was donated to Lacombe group materials like craft supplies Jason Lunn. Thanks to the Lunn a brioche bun! $2 from every burger Community Addiction and Mental and games. Thanks to the incredible brothers and D&M Concrete sold is going directly towards Lacombe Health Office–Children’s Services community support we see for Products stepping up to match Community Addiction and Mental today to help support these our Burger of the Month program our donation, a total of $3,068 Health Office–Children’s Services. services for children and youth in month after month, we have had the was donated today to Lacombe The team of therapists that operate Lacombe and area. This summer the opportunity to give back over $60,000 Community Addiction and Mental out of the Lacombe Community Health therapist team is running a small pilot to local charities over the past 41 Health Office–Children’s Services. Centre offer one to one support to group to promote mental wellness months! THANK-YOU!

12 July 17, 2020 - County News ENVIRONMENT Shelterbelts’ carbon capture potential touted Farmers often rip out shelterbelts because it is less efficient to farm around them. However, the trees could have carbon storage value. Photo and Article by Karen Briere Western Producer - May 21, 2020 edition Researchers at the University of Saskatchewan de- velop an app to show landowners the economic value of their trees A new app developed at the University of Saskatch- ewan is designed to show the economic value of shelterbelts while helping landowners determine the best trees to grow. Bryan Mood, postdoctoral research fellow at the Uni- versity of Saskatchewan, said trees store a predict- able amount of carbon every year that could be worth something. Saskatchewan has said it will have a carbon offset program available by 2021, and the province’s Prairie Resilience plan highlights investment in carbon se- questration, specifically forest management practices that aren’t recognized by the federal carbon tax. “As landowners, we’re trying to help you understand how much your trees might be worth before you de- cide to dig them up,” Mood said during a webinar. It includes research information, a shelterbelt data- federal government pledge to plant two billion trees base that includes all the data the team gathered, and and alleviate concerns about water shortages by cap- “If you’re planning on getting rid of them, it might not a reference site. It also includes the planning tool that turing snow in fields. be the best idea if the government of Saskatchewan provides best practices for design, how many trees to decides to put a dollar value on shelterbelts that are order and other information. Mood recognizes that farm equipment size has storing carbon.” caused many producers to rip trees out. However, if Mood said a carbon sequestration section shows they actually looked at the economic value of yields Mood said other benefits of shelterbelts include landowners the economics of new and existing shel- on either side of the shelterbelt, and were paid for the increased property value because homesteads sur- terbelts under different carbon tax levels. carbon, they might reconsider. rounded by shelterbelts are more likely to sell. They contribute to psychological and physical well-being, “If you’re thinking about destroying it or cutting it down “That can put you over the edge and you’re actually and increased crop yield in some situations. Research … you can evaluate how much that shelterbelt is making money by having shelterbelts, or you have a has shown that canola yields improve with certain ‘worth’ in terms of carbon value,” he said. net gain,” he said. shelterbelts. The site includes a map of Saskatchewan and al- Mood added the site will include more local knowl- The internet app that Mood and his team have lows the user to draw a map on any piece of property. edge as landowners pass that on. For example, developed is based on information from 500 to 600 It will indicate the exact dimensions of an area and Manitoba maples can become like weeds in the area farms in southern Saskatchewan. The team measured recommend the best species for the location. The around Prince Albert. tool includes the six most popular shelterbelt species: tree diameters, height, width between the trees and “Now that PFRA (the former tree nursery at Indian tree health. Trees with more space around them will caragana, Scots pine, green ash, hybrid poplar, Mani- toba maple and white spruce. Head) has been shut down, a lot of landowners need typically store more carbon, he said. Tree height is to buy their trees and if they’re buying the wrong kind directly related to the increased crop yield obtained “You can see per species how much carbon they’re of trees it’s a waste of money,” he said. from the wind protection. storing,” Mood said. That said, caragana grows everywhere in Saskatch- “We also want to know how old the tree is,” Mood In an example, he showed that a one kilometre white ewan and is always a good choice for a field shelter- said. spruce row planted in 2020 would store 3.5 tonnes of belt. carbon in 2039. “How long does it take for the tree to grow that tall and “If you’re looking for something to how long does it take to grow that wide. Using that “If you do the math, it’s equivalent to, in that year, $75, grow tall, really fast as a windbreak, a hybrid poplar is relationship, we can actually tell you with relative cer- and that’s just that one year,” he said, using the cur- a really good choice,” Mood said. tainty how much carbon the tree has stored in it now, rent $20 per tonne tax. but also how much it likely will store into the future “They go really high but they die after 40 to 50 years, based on its age.” Green ash planted this year would store 1.5 tonnes and tend to be blown over by the wind, too. You have of carbon or $31 worth in 2039. The value would to pick and choose what you actually want out of your This information was gathered from different soil obviously increase as the trees grow and store more shelterbelt.” zones and plugged into the database, along with infor- carbon, and the tax rises, Mood said. mation from landowners that included whether they For more information, visit www.shelterbelt-sk.ca. saw value or benefit to the trees. In an interview, Mood said people don’t recognize the importance of shelterbelts as they relate to carbon The result is the Shelterbelt Decision Support System. and climate change. Shelterbelts can help fulfill the 13 CountyCounty News News - -August July 17, 18, 2020 2017 SUBDIVISION & DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITY SUBDIVISION & DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITY June 1, 2020 to June 30, 2020

Do you have Development Applications Received questions No. File No. Applicant Legal Description Proposed Development Decision about (Landowner) (oterwise endin) Lot B Plan 802 1534 Kennel 1 59/20 Howard & Louise Larsen Approved subdivision or (Pt. SE 16-39-3-W5M) (enewal Country aw)

development Home Based Business, Major 2 60/20 Jon & Karen McNeill SW 15-40-26-W4M (enewal round er Approved activity? Coatins)

3 61/20 Ronald & Linda Hopper NE 28-41-3-W5M Additions to Residence Approved

Lot 1 Block 4 Plan 856MC 4 62/20 Trudy Van Melsen Setback Relaxation Approved (Birch Bay, )

Arnold Hofer 5 63/20 (Hutterian Brethren NE 23-41-4-W5M Replacement 7-Plex Approved Church of Leedale) Contact Us: Coby Visscher Agricultural Service Facility 6 64/20 Pt. SW 26-40-28-W4M Approved Lacombe County (Pik-N-Pak Produce Ltd.) (ansion i n a roduce) Planning Services Single Family Residence 7 65/20 Thomas Watts SE 25-40-26-W4M Approved (403) 782-8389 (elacement econd wellin)

planning@ No. File No. Applicant Legal Description Proposed Development Decision Lot 1 Block 2 Plan 142 2128 Security/Operator Suite 8 66/20 Delta(Landowner) Land Co. Ltd. (oterwiseApproved endin) lacombecounty.com (Sandy Point, Gull Lake) (emorary id a) Single Family Residence Silverstone Custom Homes Corp. Lot 11 Block 1 Plan 192 1146 Dale Freitag 9 67/20 w/attached garage & Approved (Geo Real Estate Corp) (Burbank Heights Subdivision) Director of detached garage Planning Services Silverstone Custom Homes Corp. Lot 11 Block 1 Plan 192 1146 10 68/20 Secondary Suite Approved (Geo Real Estate Corp) (Burbank Heights Subdivision) Cajun Paradis

Senior Planner 11 69/20 Ray & Kary Barritt Pt. SE 30-40-24-W4M Shop Approved

Peter Duke Pt. NE 35-41-26-W4M 12 70/20 Wesley and Myrta Cooke Sunroom Addition Approved Planner / Development (Morningside Area) Officer Single Family Residence Jeff Ekkel 13 71/20 NW 1-41-28-W4M w/attached garage Approved (761714 Alberta Ltd.) Allison Noonan (ird wellin) Planning Services Single Family Residence 14 72/20 Roger & Gloria Essiambre Pt. SW 15-39-23-W4M Administrative Assistant (elacement wellin)

Single Family Residence Colbray Homes Ltd. Charmaine Tootell 15 73/20 NE 31-41-27-W4M w/attached garage Approved (Philip & Ashley Den Oudsten) Planning Services (econd wellin) Receptionist Mark & Laura Luymes Lot 1 Block 1 Plan 202 1386 Single Family Residence 16 74/20 Approved (Peter Luymes) (Pt. NW 22-41-27-W4M) w/attached garage

Lot 45 Block 1 Plan 772 2679 14 17 75/20 Ivan Katerenchuk Detached Garage Approved (McLaurIn Beach, Gull Lake) July 17, 2020 - County News MAP OF ACTIVITY 15 12 3 4 16 5 21

8 17 13 18 19 7 20 6 2 22

11 9/10 14 1

No. File No. Applicant Legal Description Proposed Development Decision (Landowner) (oterwise endin)

California Homes Ltd. Lot 2 Block 2 Plan 7264KS Single Family Residence 18 76/20 Approved (Karen Veres) (Pt. SE 21-40-28-W4M) w/attached garage

Subdivision Applications Received

File Applicant No. Legal Description Proposed Subdivision Decision No. (Landowner) (oterwise endin)

Jon Motz Lot 4 Block 1 Plan 172 1203 Other REMINDER: 19 S-010-20 Refused (One Tree Ltd & Living Water Inc) (W1/2 34-40-26-W4M) (reinstate the quarter line) Approaching Staff Tim Jones 20 S-011-20 (Alex Jones and NE 20-40-28-W4M 1st Parcel Out Tony & Grace Tharou) Lacombe County asks the public to ensure they are Trevor & Wendy Howery Lot 2A Block 1 Plan 952 2336 21 S-012-20 Residential (Wendy Howery Prof Corp) (Pt. SW 15-41-26-W4M) following all COVID-19 guidelines when dealing in Bemoco Land Surveying Ltd. 22 S-013-20 NW 15-40-22-W4M 1st Parcel Out (Lloyd Beamish) person with any County staff.

If you are unable to follow

For more information contact the County’s Planning Services Department at 403-782-8389 the guidelines below, please communicate with Lacombe NOVA Chemicals Nature Trail County via alternate channels Location: Southwest of the Hamlet of Joffre on Township Rd 39-0 between (phone, email, online). Highway 815 and Freedom Road.

explore GPS: 52-19’-03.36552” N, 113-32’-41.52247” W Details: The trail system provides an excellent opportunity for people to • Maintain a 2-metre play connect with nature and learn about local wildlife and plants — as well as physical distance & the area’s history. It has 5km of looped trails and interpretive signage. • Ensure proper hand- washing/sanitizing practices • If appropriate, consider wearing a mask to protect those around you • Stay home if you are feeling unwell

Lacombe County is home to a number of parks, trails and public spaces for everyone to enjoy. For a full list and map of Lacombe County parks & trails locations, please visit https://www.lacombecounty.com/index.php/parks-and-trails. If you encounter any issues with our parks, please contact us at 403-782-8379, or report it through the myLacombeCounty app. 15 CountyCounty News News - -August July 17, 18, 2020 2017 Ellis Bird Farm: Open for the Season! By the time you are Ellis planted over 50 years ago. Some of these trees EBF site. These boxes had started to deteriorate reading this update, had reached the end of their life cycle and we are and were taken down last fall. They were refurbished Ellis Bird Farm will re-purposing them for several exciting new projects. and repaired by Rob and Louise Aellen of Elnora have been open The first of these is a gazebo that will overlook the over the winter and were re-installed in May. We for one month under the new Covid-era guidelines. site on the north end of our public area. This gazebo, celebrated the continuation of Jim Boyd’s legacy We are so pleased to report that things have gone the result of a generous grant from DOW, will involve on Canada Day, with the Aellens present as well as tremendously well, and we have seen a steady flow both this re-purposed timber as well as post-industrial Jim Boyd’s daughter, Debbie Maki, who funded the of very happy visitors enjoying the beautiful gardens, recycled plastics suppled from the Prentiss site. The refurbishment, and Del McKinnon of the Purple Martin Gift Shop, abundant birds, updated exhibits, special old pier that once sat in the gazebo site has now Conservancy, who oversaw the project. tours and modified programs. been moved to a new area, providing yet another space where visitors can relax and enjoy the beauty Finally, the big news from the animal kingdom at Ellis While the Visitor Centre and Ellis Centre were of the site. Bird Farm: we are pleased to announce that a pair initially closed to the public, they are now open. The of beavers have appeared onsite once again. Since dipping pier, viewing tower and nature playground The North Viewpoint Bridge has been completed their arrival in mid-June, the beavers have repaired are also open, with hand sanitizer stations placed over the course of the spring as well, culminating with the lower pond dam, have checked out the old lodges at convenient locations all around the site. We have dirtwork contouring provided by Lacombe County. and runs and have accepted the offerings of poplar also been running modified programs, including our This bridge will be officially opened on July 29th, and branches we have left them. They are quite tame usual Knee High Nature programs for young children, is a timely addition to the site in light of our very wet and have allowed the EBF staff great beaver viewing site tours with Myrna Pearman and very successful spring and all the water flowing through the farm. opportunities. Our last beaver family mysteriously birding and butterfly-watching events led by our disappeared in the fall of 2015 and we are so pleased knowledgeable and friendly summer staff. We have Wayne Froese is also crafting several projects to have this new family onsite. more events coming up and are planning on adding from the milled spruce timbers for the developing even more offerings over the next few weeks—check Nature Playground. This play area, which has been As the summer progresses, we continue to adapt our website or follow our social media channels for designed by Kirstin Bouwsema and constructed over and respond to the changes in the world. How details. the course of the spring, is funded by a grant from grateful we are that the natural world at Ellis Bird the TD Friends of the Environment Fund. Already it Farm, in sunshine or in rain, offers a steadfast and In addition, EBF has continued to see developments is being well used by children who visit the site. We beautiful respite. At present, our gates are open for and changes this spring that will benefit the site for are grateful to TD Bank’s support and look forward to our normal summertime hours of 11AM until 5PM, years to come. Wayne Froese of Top Peg Timber officially opening the space later this summer. Tuesday through Sunday and holiday Mondays. Framing has been onsite much of the spring, milling Visit our website for details of special events. www. timber from the long row of spruce trees that Charlie In addition, we were pleased to celebrate the return ellisbirdfarm.ca. of the late Jim Boyd’s Purple Martin houses to the

16 July 17, 2020 - County News

JULY 2020

Water Fun Ellis Bird Farm — Farm Grounds and Visitor Centre are now open. Visitors are Whether you are into fishing, swimming, boating or kayaking you won’t be at a loss for invited to the site to enjoy the birds, stroll the trails , and enjoy their own picnics. places to visit this summer. Central Alberta has an abundance of lakes & ponds, some more Ellis Bird Farm is also offering a limited number of programs over the summer. For obvious and some you will be thankful you went a little further to find. more program details including how to register yourself or your child go to Swimming—Located on the west side of Gull Lake the Sandy Point Beach includes a large www.ellisbirdfarm.ca/programs—events.html public beach complete with washroom and shower facilities as well as a public boat launch, sand volleyball courts, and a playground. Lacombe Michener House Museum —Tours of the Michener House can be Boating— Boat Launch improves access to with this boat booked online at www.lacombemuseum.com or by calling 4037823933 . Tours launch and day use area upgraded to accommodate more and varied users. are offered on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 1:00pm– 4:00pm . The Tees Trout Pond is a stream fed, stocked trout pond, that includes a day use area with The Lacombe Blacksmith Shop Museum is also open for tours starting July 16th. parking, a bathroom, picnic tables and park benches. Advance bookings are required to visit either museum. Ray’s Pond is stocked yearly by the Alberta Conservation Association with trout and features a day use area with parking, bathroom, picnic tables, park benches, dock and The Alix Wagon Wheel Museum is now open TuesSat 10am5pm in the Village of boardwalk. Alix. A great selection of artefacts, exhibits and photo collections fill this museum Len Thompson Trout Pond featuring the World’s Largest Fishing Lure, is a pristine day use to capacity and is a great day trip to the community. area in the City of Lacombe with picnic facilities and docks to fish off of. Bentley Museum is open 12pm5pm, Wednesday through Sunday in the Town Alix Lake in the heart of the Village of Alix is located at the end of Main Street and has an of Bentley. This museum is a gem with buildings full of artifacts and displays to 11site campground, day use area, playground, swimming area, concession and calm water discover local history. for waterski and wakeboard enthusiasts. Enjoy the abundance of water fowl and wildlife along the 6km walking trail along the lakeshore. The Hamlet of Mirror boasts a historical museum presenting the railway and Buffalo Lake is a large, shallow lake in central Alberta, located in the counties of Camrose, artifacts from the early settlers, including the St Monica's Anglican Church, Stettler and Lacombe. To reach Buffalo Lake from the town of Lacombe, drive east on Cemetery, Boxcar & Caboose! Highway 12 for 68 km to the hamlet of Erskine, then turn north on Secondary Road 835 ______and drive for 15 km to Rochon Sands Provincial Park. The Hatchet— New to Lacombe, The Hatchet is an exciting place to have some unique fun. Sporting 14 lanes for axe throwing, pool tables, & darts this is a great Challenge yourself to visit somewhere new this summer, you’ll be surprised at what you place for small or large groups looking for something out of the ordinary to do. find. Share your pictures and experiences by tagging Lacombe Tourism on social media. Find the Hatchet at Unit 2, 4843 46st Lacombe or on their website at www.thehatchet.ca. Partner Profile

KRAAY FAMILY FARM The Kraay Family Farm is excited to be opening on July 17th. At the farm this year you will find 40+ memory making activities and attractions from Miniature Golf to Shoot Out at the Ok Corral, & the CORNcession to the Pumpkin Pad. Of course we cannot forget the Corn Maze and all of the awesome animals who are waiting for you!! Don’t miss out on this all day adventure, book your reservations now and start perfecting your selfie poses!! The farm is celebrating it’s 21st year in operations, it will look similar to previous years with some changes in place to help keep everyone safe. This is a place where age has no number and fun is for everyone! You’ll want to come back to do it all again. Grab a season pass and start planning now. Reservations are recommended. Check their website for more details. www.kraayfamilyfarm.com

17 CountyCounty News News - -August July 17, 18, 2020 2017 COUNCIL HIGHLIGHTS June 11, 2020 COVID-19 UPDATE Library floor and storage project. This contribution approved increased values of the two current A detailed report on Lacombe County’s activities and will be funded from the County’s Recreation Capital Lacombe County scholarships (Lacombe County strategies about the global COVID-19 pandemic was Assistance Reserve. Leadership Scholarship and the Lacombe County received for information. As per the report Lacombe Leadership Scholarship for Apprentice) will be County’s ECC has officially closed as of June 10, BILLING FOR FIRE SERVICES increased from $1,500 to $1,850. 2020 due to the near completion of the County’s Council directed the County Manager to amend relaunch plan. The County Office and Shop will open Lacombe County Policy F(1) Fire Protection and A new scholarship of $1,850 based on the following to the public as soon as all safety measures are in Emergency Response, to provide for the invoicing eligibility and criteria will be established: place. of residents for fire department responses to motor vehicle collisions using Alberta Transportation Eligibility: A full-time Red Deer College student who attended a Bachelor of Science program in the 2019 COMMUNITY PROFILE FOR LACOMBE rates and to structure fires using separate rates. most recent academic year. The student must be COUNTY AND THE LACOMBE COUNTY The amended Policy F(1) will be presented for continuing full-time studies in the subsequent year of BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT GUIDE consideration at a future Council meeting. Council endorsed the 2019 Community Profile for the program at RDC in the upcoming academic year. Lacombe County and the Lacombe County Business COMMUNICATIONS ACTION PLAN The student must be a Canadian Citizen or landed Development Guide. The Public Engagement and Communications immigrant. Preference given to a student who is a Action Plan for Lacombe County was approved current or former Lacombe County resident pursuing a The 2019 Community Profile for Lacombe County by Council. The County Manager was directed to career in Agriculture or Agri-Business, Environmental which was produced externally and provides an begin implementing action items, with large budget and Conservation Sciences or Veterinary Medicine. in-depth look at Lacombe County demographics, items being presented for Council approval when industries and other statistics. ready to proceed, and furthermore, that the Public Secondary preference to a student with a rural Engagement and Communications Action Plan be background. The Lacombe County Business Development Guide presented to Council in a year for the review of the Criteria: Academic achievement and financial need. leverages information in the community profile accomplished items and any feedback received from to provide Lacombe County specific details on the public on these initiatives. BYLAW NO. 1327-20 – SYLVAN LAKE development and industries in the area, as well as COMMUNAL SEWAGE BYLAW information on the County’s various development LACOMBE COUNTY THREE-YEAR TRAFFIC At the May 14, 2020 Council meeting, Council opportunities and amenities (commercial, industrial, SAFETY PLAN approved a resolution to defer the requirement for residential and recreational). A Traffic Safety Planis a mandatory requirement for property owners within the Sylvan Lake Communal all Authorized Employers who conduct moving traffic Servicing Project area to connect to the system MDP/LUB BYLAWS – JULY PUBLIC HEARING enforcement. Employers are to ensure that Peace to October 31, 2021. As such, the Sylvan Lake By resolution, Council agreed to proceed with the Officers who perform traffic safety enforcement duties July 9, 2020 public hearing for Bylaw Nos. 1318/20 Communal Sewage Bylaw has been amended to are aware of the Traffic Safety Plan and conduct reflect that change. and 1319/20 using Zoom as an option to allow public enforcement activities in accordance with the Plan. participation. An updated Traffic Safety Plan must be filed with the Amended Bylaw No. 1327/20, which reflects Council’s intention and the change of the date for mandatory ENHANCE ENERGY TAX REQUEST/PAVEMENT Public Security Division a minimum of every three connection to October 31, 2021, was given first, REQUIREMENTS years. second and third and final reading by Council. A resolution to approve Enhance Energy Inc’s. The County’s Community Peace Officer Services request for waiver and deferral of well drilling undertook a review of the Plan and a new plan has equipment taxes, property taxes and approach been created for 2020 to 2023. The updated Plan pavement requirements did not receive Council received the approval of Council. approval. LACOMBE COUNTY SCHOLARSHIPS – RED TOWN OF ECKVILLE LIBRARY BOARD RC(1) DEER COLLEGE APPLICATION Due to additional funding available through Lacombe By resolution of Council Lacombe County will provide County’s endowment with Red Deer College, Council funding of $ 5,576 for the Town of Eckville Public

18 July 17, 2020 - County News COUNCIL HIGHLIGHTS June 25, 2020

COVID-19 UPDATE REGIONAL RECREATION County Environmental Steering Committee Lacombe County Fire Chief D. Bussiere addressed By resolution of Council the County Manager will be replaced with an Annual Environmental questions from Council regarding the Provincial and was directed to investigate Lacombe County Action Plan for environmental planning and Lacombe County relaunch strategies as per the undertaking regional recreation discussions with programming within Lacombe County. COVID-19 pandemic. the Town of Blackfalds and the City of Lacombe, with a report to be presented to Council at a MEMORIAL TREE GARDEN – ANDERSON BUDGET 2021 TIME LINES future Council meeting. Discussion on funding PARK Council was provided with the proposed time lines allocation to the recreation capital assistance A report on the concept of a Memorial Tree for 2021 budget deliberations. An initial pre-budget reserve and regional recreation was received for Garden at Anderson Park was received for meeting date of August 28, 2020 had been set information. information. previously, and Council approved an additional pre- budget meeting for July 28, 2020. CENTRAL ALBERTA ECONOMIC DUST CONTROL A presentation on dust control in Lacombe PARTNERSHIP County was received for information. APPOINTMENT OF AUDITORS The County Manager was directed to invite a Each year, Lacombe County engages the services representative of the Central Alberta Economic of an accounting firm to perform its annual external Partnership to a future Council meeting to BASHAW & DISTRICT SUPPORT SERVICES financial audit and prepare the County’s financial discuss economic development services. - ALIX/MIRROR COMMUNITY RESOURCE statements and financial information return. Council CENTRE The following resolution did not receive Council approved a resolution that BDO Canada LLP be LACOMBE REGIONAL EMERGENCY approval: appointed as the Lacombe County auditor for 2020. MANAGEMENT AGENCY An overview of the Lacombe Regional That Lacombe County provide Bashaw & District ALBERTA AGRICULTURE & FORESTRY – FIELD Emergency Management Agency was received Support Services with $ 25,000 to assist in the start- VISIT for information. up of the Alix-Mirror Community Resource Centre, Krista DeMilliano, Crop Assurance Extension and further; that this contribution be funded through Specialist from Alberta Agriculture and Forestry LAND USE BYLAW – MATRIX REVIEW the County’s Operational Reserve. reported to Council that she will undertake a field By Council resolution, the County Manager visit of Lacombe County’s Agricultural Service Board was directed to amend the Land Use Bylaw FCSS FUNDING ALLOCATIONS programs and initiatives that are underway. Field visits during the Matrix Review to provide for the By resolution of Council the County Manager was audit Lacombe County’s Agriculture Service Board pre-circulation to adjacent landowners of the directed to prepare a report with regard to a review programming and are used to verify compliance with development of campgrounds and community of the allocation of Lacombe County FCSS funding grant reporting. facilities within Lacombe County. with that report to be presented at a future Council meeting. RYDERS PARK LANDOWNER FIELD DRAINAGE As per complaints from adjacent landowners PROJECTS CENTRAL ALBERTA AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY regarding misuse of the area the west boundary of the A presentation on Landowner Field Drainage TOUR Lacombe County Reserve parcel in SW 2-40-1 W4M Projects was received for information. Council will tour the facilities and grounds at the and the undeveloped road allowance immediately Lacombe Research and Development Centre that are south of the Reserve will be fenced. This work will be ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT GRANT managed by the Central Alberta Agricultural Society completed in 2020. PROGRAM on September 10, 2020 at 3:00 p.m. The County Manager was directed to COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE proceed with a new funding program for the In addition to receiving the notes of the June Environmental Improvement Grant and to amend Council Highlights & Minutes can 2, 2020 Committee of the Whole meeting for Policy AD(33) to reflect the program changes for be found on our website under the information, Council also reviewed the following 2021. ‘Council’ Link on the main page items from that meeting: - or scan the QR code (left) with ENVIRONMENTAL STEERING COMMITTEE your smartphone! As per resolution of Council, the Lacombe Regularly Scheduled When to call 911?: Complaints vs. emergencies Meetings for Lacombe We often get asked, "When should For general inquiries and com- number is registered to, and calling County Council / we call 911?" 911 is for police, fire, plaints during the day, please call: and sending police officers to your or medical emergencies when im- • Bashaw RCMP - (780) 372-3593 location to ensure you are okay. This Council Committee mediate action is required: some- • Blackfalds RCMP - (403) 885- process takes up a lot of time, so if one’s health, safety or property is in 3333 you accidentally call 911, stay on the Committee of the Whole imminent jeopardy, or a crime is in • Sylvan Lake RCMP - (403) 887- line, or answer the phone when they First Tuesday of every second month at 9 a.m. progress. 911 should be called for: 3333 call back. You will not get in trouble. Council & MPC Any life-threatening emergency, any • Rimbey RCMP - (403) 843-2223 Second and fourth Thursday of every month, crime in progress and for impaired • Ponoka RCMP - (403) 783-4471 Don't program 911 into your speed starting at 9 a.m.. drivers. • Lacombe Police - (403) 782- dial. It only takes a second to dial it 3279 and when it's pre-programmed, it's The public and media are welcome to attend Local police stations have complaint easy to dial accidentally. all Council & MPC meetings. An agenda will be lines that can be called if you require If you accidentally call 911: posted to the website prior to the meeting. police assistance. This number Please stay on the line and advise should be used for crimes that have the operator it was an accident. If a occurred in the past, noise com- 911 hang-up is received the RCMP plaints and minor incidents. will follow-up by finding out who the 19 CountyCounty News News - -August July 17, 18, 2020 2017 What is acceptable in Lacombe County?

With summer here, it’s a great time for a Community Standards Bylaw reminder.

Smoking or vaping cannabis products in ANY public place in Lacombe County is prohibited.

Be respectful with your noise (no unreasonably loud/raucous noise that disrupts others, including your neighbours).

No bullying will be tolerated in any public places.

Quiet hours are 11:00PM to 7:00AM in residential areas (with regards to generators, construction equipment, power lawn- mowers, disruptive vehicle sounds, power tools, etc.).

These are just a few of the expectations in the Community Standards Bylaw. Visit www.LacombeCounty.com for the full details. Alberta Provincial Rural Crime Watch Association

The Alberta Rural Crime Watch Association (APRCWA) has its beginning roots in rural Alberta, during a time when concerned Albertans, operating locally, felt a need for a provincial organization to tie together the scattering of local rural crime groups and Association in your area associations. (Lacombe County has information on local crime This gave the cause, a watch groups on its website at provincial identity, and the www.lacombecounty.com). opportunity to seek provincial funding to cover initiatives, Want to report something such as crime prevention, with suspicious and don't know updates in Crime Prevention the RCMP phone number? Through Environmental We have an APP to help in Design (CPTED) concepts. locating the nearing RCMP The principles in CPTED detachment in Alberta when form the base for our crime there is a need to report a prevention sessions held suspicious person or a person throughout the province. in distress. More information can be found by visiting www. Check out the MAP at www. ruralcrimewatch.ab.ca. ruralcrimewatch.ab.ca to find a Rural Crime Watch

20 July 17, 2020 - County News

Do you have an after hours service concern? Or don't have time to make a phone call?

Lacombe County has several ways for residents to make non-emergency service requests.

ONLINE Go to www.lacombecounty.com, and click on the Submit PROUD CANADIANS | Brian and Trudy Playfair created this lovely patriotic flower display at Service Request image to fill out a simple form their home on Highway 766 north of Eckville. This display reminds us of how fortunate we are to be Canadian following the recent Canada Day holiday! MY LACOMBE COUNTY APP ~ Photo submitted by Coun. Dana Kreil If you have an iPhone, make sure to download the myLacombeCounty app from the Apple Store. Not only can you submit service requests from your mobile device, but you can also request fire permits, see the latest news in Lacombe County, and find contact information (to name a few).

COVID-19 INFORMATION HELP RELAUNCH, SAFELY

Prevention starts with awareness. Be informed on how you can protect yourself and others from COVID-19:

Isolate if you’re feeling sick When out, maintain physical distancing of 2 metres Wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds with warm water and soap Cover coughs and sneezes and stay home if you are sick Avoid touching your face Wear a mask in public places where keeping a distance of 2 metres is difficult

STAY INFORMED alberta.ca/covid19

21 CountyCounty News News - -August July 17, 18, 2020 2017 AROUND THE COUNTY TOOLS FOR SCHOOL Together: let's send our local students back to school equipped with the items they need to succeed. Apply today: Applications available in office & on our website

Contact: Lacombe & District FCSS

403-782-6637 #201 4214 50 ave Lacombe | T4L 0B6

www.lacombefcss.net

myLacombeCounty App

iPhone users can download the “myLacombeCounty” app to report non- emergency civic issues, apply for fire permit, and stay up-to-date on the latest news and events.

Download it from the Apple Store today (the app is currently available to iPhone users only).

Follow us on social media /LacombeCounty

@LacombeCounty

www.lacombecounty.com 22 July 17, 2020 - County News AROUND THE COUNTY

Make a Join the Legion Be part of making a difference You don’t have to be a Veteran to join and make a difference. They served and sacri- SPLASH ficed for our freedoms. Becoming a member at the Kinsmen Aquatic Centre of the Legion is the ultimate way to show 5429 53rd Street, Lacombe AB your gratitude and give your support.

What’s Happening at the Spray Park: How your membership supports Veterans The Lacombe Spray Park is now open to the public with Your membership allows the Legion to restrictions. improve the lives of those who served, give back to our communities and ensure Canada Information about these restrictions can be found at never forgets. Visit www.legion.ca/join-us http://lacombe.ca/living/amenities-facilities/parks. for details. The Spray Park hours are Monday to Friday 10am-5pm and Weekends and Statutory Holidays from 10am-8pm. Join now to help us provide: • Free services, supports and financial as- Come and swim at the Kinsmen Aquatic Centre! sistance for Veterans and their families The Lacombe Kinsmen Aquatic Centre is now open with • National Veteran outreach to identify and restrictions. Registration for swimming lessons is currently support Veterans in need open. Please visit our website at Lacombe.ca/pool to see • Free advocacy to help Veterans get their information about restrictions for all activities before deserved disability benefits attending the facility or booking swimming lessons. • Youth education and community programs • National remembrance and commemora- For more information on the KAC schedule, pool rentals and advanced tive initiatives courses call 403.782.1277 or visit www.lacombe.ca/pool. • Legion Branch operations to support Veter- ans and their families

23 CountyCounty News News - -August July 17, 18, 2020 2017 AUGUST 2020 Help us promote Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 26 27 28 29 30 31 August 1 YOU! Do you know a 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 business, person, place or volunteer Heritage Day Office Closed you want to see profiled in County 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 News?

County News Submissions due Do you have a photograph you want 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 to share?

County News published If so, email communications@ lacombecounty.com with your ideas, 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 photographs or stories. County Council 30 31 9:00 a.m. We'd love to hear from you! Lacombe County Directory TAX PAYMENTS RR3, Lacombe Alberta T4L 2N3 www.lacombecounty.com Department Numbers: Main Office - 403-782-6601 Like other on-line bill Planning Services - 403-782-8389 payments, there may be a Community Services - 403-782-8959 processing delay on on-line Tax Operations - 403-782-8379 Payments. Payments MUST be in our bank account on or before Public Works Shop - 403-782-3567 the payment date (September General 30), or penalties will apply. Don't Toll Free from Eckville and Ponoka 403.357.1770 leave it until the last minute. After Hours Emergency Answering Service 403.357.1210 Administration Fax 403.782.3820 Public Works Fax 403.782.5356 For Service Requests, see our website - or phone the switchboard at 403-782-6601 Stay up to date! Senior Administration Tim Timmons, County Manager Follow us on social media [email protected] Michael Minchin, Director of Corporate Services [email protected] /LacombeCounty Call 403-782-6601 to speak Bill Cade, Director of Operations with the County Manager [email protected] or with a Lacombe County Dale Freitag, Director of Planning Services Director @LacombeCounty [email protected] Keith Boras, Director of Community Services [email protected] COUNTY NEWS Council Home Cell is published by Lacombe County and printed by John Ireland, Division 1 403.392.3981 PostMedia. If you have feedback or story ideas, Brenda Knight, Division 2 403.788.2168 403.550.2168 please contact: Barb Shepherd, Division 3 403.340.9724 Nicole Plewis, Communications Coordinator Paula Law, Division 4 403.784.3803 403.348.1755 [email protected] 403.782.6601 Ken Wigmore, Division 5 403.782.2593 403.588.1222 Keith Stephenson, Division 6 403.748.2431 403.350.4940 24 Dana Kreil, Division 7 403.746.3607 403.358.9400