2007 ANNUAL REPORT

ASSOCIATION OF MUNICIPALITIES

September 1, 2006 to August 31, 2007

MISSION STATEMENT

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

2 2

TABLE OF CONTENTS

MEMBER MAP 4

AMM MEMBERS 5 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE 6

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE 7

BOARD OF DIRECTORS & STAFF 8

EXECUTIVE 11

LOBBYING HIGHLIGHTS

FEDERAL 12

FISCAL BALANCE 15

PROVINCIAL 16

SUBMISSIONS 24

LOBBY DAYS 26

SPECIAL EVENTS

AMM MISSION TO EL SALVADOR 27

MRIF PROJECT UPDATE 28

PROVINCIAL-TERRITORIAL MINISTERS 29

MEMBER SERVICES

AMM EVENTS 30

COMMUNICATIONS 32 MTCML 34

FINANCIAL STATEMENT 36

3

3 3

MEMBER MAP

4 4

AMM MEMBERS

Urban Centres Plum Coulee, Town Coldwell Park THERE ARE 198 Altona, Town Portage la Prairie, City Cornwallis Pembina MUNICIPALITIES Arborg, Town Powerview, Village Daly Piney Beausejour, Town Rapid City, Town Dauphin Pipestone IN MANITOBA. Benito, Village Rivers, Town De Salaberry Portage la Prairie Binscarth, Village Riverton, Village Dufferin Reynolds EACH ONE IS A Birtle, Town Roblin, Town East St. Paul Rhineland MEMBER OF THE Boissevain, Town Rossburn, Town Edward Ritchot AMM. Bowsman, Village Russell, Town Ellice Riverside Brandon, City Selkirk, City Elton Roblin Carberry, Town Shoal Lake, Town Eriksdale Rockwood Carman, Town Snow Lake, Town Ethelbert Roland Cartwright, Village Somerset, Village Fisher Rosedale Churchill, Town Souris, Town Franklin Rossburn Crystal City, Village St. Claude, Village Gilbert Plains Rosser Dauphin, City St. Lazare, Village Gimli Russell Deloraine, Town St. Pierre-Jolys, Village Glenella Saskatchewan Dunnottar, Village Ste. Anne, Town Glenwood Shell River Elkhorn, Village Ste. Rose du Lac, Town Grahamdale Shellmouth-Boulton Emerson, Town Steinbach, City Grandview Shoal Lake Erickson, Town Stonewall, Town Grey Sifton Ethelbert, Village Swan River, Town Hamiota Siglunes Flin Flon, City Teulon, Town Hanover Silver Creek Gilbert Plains, Town , Town Harrison South Cypress Gillam, Town Thompson, City Headingley South Norfolk Gladstone, Town Treherne, Town Hillsburg Springfield Glenboro, Village Virden, Town Kelsey St. Andrews Grand Rapids, Town Waskada, Village Killarney-Turtle Mountain St. Clements Grandview, Town Wawanesa, Village La Broquerie St. Francois Xavier Gretna, Town Winkler, City Lac du Bonnet St. Laurent Hamiota, Town Winnipeg Beach, Town Lakeview Stanley Hartney, Town Winnipeg, City Langford Ste. Anne Lac du Bonnet, Town Winnipegosis, Village Lansdowne Ste. Rose Leaf Rapids, Town Lawrence Strathclair Lynn Lake, Town Rural Lorne Strathcona MacGregor, Village Municipalities Louise Stuartburn Manitou, Town Albert Macdonald Swan River McCreary, Village Alexander McCreary Tache Melita, Town Alonsa Miniota Thompson Minitonas, Town Archie Minitonas Victoria Minnedosa, Town Argyle Minto Victoria Beach Morden, Town Armstrong Montcalm Wallace Morris, Town Arthur Morris West St. Paul Mystery Lake, LGD Bifrost Morton Westbourne Neepawa, Town Birtle Mossey Whitehead Niverville, Town Blanshard Mountain Whitemouth Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes, Brenda North Cypress Whitewater Village Brokenhead North Norfolk Winchester Oak Lake, Town Cameron Oakland Woodlands Pilot Mound, Town Cartier Ochre River Woodworth 5 Pinawa, LGD Clanwilliam Odanah

5 5

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

n behalf of the Board of Directors of May and, in what was hailed as an O the Association of Manitoba “unprecedented example of working to- Municipalities, I am pleased to present gether”, to address the annual meeting of the 2006/2007 Annual Report. This Provincial-Territorial Ministers Responsible for past year was the ninth in AMM history Local Government in July. We used both and reflects the many activities and opportunities to focus on infrastructure and accomplishments of our organization fiscal balance – clearly our two top issues for over the past year. 2006/2007. The year’s lobbying activities were While these national lobbying activities are largely devoted to addressing the need indeed significant, a number of smaller for more infrastructure funding. We victories we claimed here at home deserve welcomed the Federal Government’s 2007 mention. This year, the Province announced it Budget announcement of a Building Canada would now cover the costs of inter-facility Fund (BCF), including the four-year extension patient transfer, resolving an issue that had “THESE of the federal gas tax program. We worked been on the AMM’s books since 1999. The VICTORIES ARE tirelessly with the Federation of Canadian successful Neighbourhoods Alive! program EVEN SWEETER Municipalities (FCM) to ensure these funds was expanded to five additional communities, BECAUSE THEY improve the state of infrastructure for munici- and communities hosting travelers stranded ARE THE DIRECT palities. Because the BCF will replace a by inclement weather can now obtain financial RESULT OF number of existing infrastructure funding assistance. These victories are even sweeter programs, we believe it will be an improve- because they are the direct result of strong, STRONG, ment, but without a detailed announcement member-driven lobbying. MEMBER- we have been left with more questions than DRIVEN We lobbied all provincial political parties answers. It is my hope that by the time you during Lobby Days in April, and watched the LOBBYING.” read this an announcement will have been Provincial Election unfold with great interest. made so that this funding can begin to flow to We congratulate Premier Doer and his govern- our members. ment on their re-election and look forward to Another top issue this year was fiscal balance, following up on the many election promises, as we continued to draw attention to the made by all parties during that campaign, that growing disparity between municipal responsi- will benefit municipalities. bilities and municipal revenues. There is On a final note, I would like to bid farewell to indeed strength in numbers, and we part- former AMM Directors Bert Lagimodiere and nered with Provincial and Territorial Municipal William Danylchuk. Their contributions to the Associations across Canada to further explore AMM were many and we wish them well in the this issue. The group hired Dr. Enid Slack to future. Thank you also goes to the rest of the develop a comprehensive report on the roles, Board for their continued dedication and hard responsibilities, resources and relationships work throughout the year. of Canada’s municipal governments with their provincial and territorial governments. Dr. Finally, my greatest thanks, as always, goes to Slack will present her findings at the AMM 9th our membership. Your support over the past Annual Convention, and her report is sure to year is truly appreciated and is what drives us form the basis of our future lobbying activities to do the important work that we do. As you toward achieving fiscal balance. read through this Annual Report, take pride in the accomplishments we achieved together The AMM also spoke out on municipal chal- during 2006/2007. You have earned it. lenges on the national stage over the past year. We were invited to present to the Senate Standing Committee on National Finance in Ron Bell, President 6 6

E XECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE

t is with pleasure that I present the Execu- AMM’s way of sharing our knowledge I tive Director’s message for the ninth Annual and experience with others, and in Report of the Association of Manitoba Munici- the end, both organizations ultimately palities. benefit. It is always pleasant to begin with good news, While our lobbying activities routinely and this past year was indeed excellent in call upon us to look forward, we also terms of finances. Both the AMM and the spent some time last year reflecting Municipalities Trading Company of Manitoba on our history by initiating a very Ltd. (MTCML) continue to be strong, as special project. This project will illustrated in the financial statements on culminate in late 2008 with a com- pages 36-42. MTCML sales were strong plete “History Book” about the enough, in fact, to result in our largest mem- activities of the AMM and our predecessors, ber rebate to date - $750,000. This brings the the Union of Manitoba Municipalities (UMM) cumulative rebate total to $2.5 million since and the Manitoba Association of Urban 2002. Thanks to all of our members for their Municipalities (MAUM) over the past century. continued use of the MTCML, and to our We spent a large part of the past year commu- “WHILE OUR Official Suppliers for offering our membership nicating our plans to our members and calling LOBBYING excellent products and services at the best upon you to share your memorabilia for ACTIVITIES possible prices. possible inclusion in the book. The finished ROUTINELY CALL product will showcase the history that we all UPON US TO Another issue we spent a great deal of time share and we look forward to presenting it to LOOK FORWARD, on last year was Public Sector Accounting you at next year’s convention. WE ALSO SPENT Board Generally Accepted Accounting Prac- SOME TIME tices – otherwise known as PSAB GAAP. The AMM is nothing without its people, and to REFLECTING ON Effective January 1, 2009 all governments in that end I would like to sincerely thank our OUR HISTORY Canada, including local governments, must Board of Directors for their support over the LAST YEAR BY adopt PSAB GAAP. The AMM and Department past year. We said farewell to some directors INITIATING A of Intergovernmental Affairs undertook a joint and welcomed others, but all Board members, VERY SPECIAL venture to help municipalities adopt PSAB past and present, have made a valuable PROJECT.” GAAP, including hiring a project manager and contribution to our organization. I appreciate setting up a number of training sessions. This the opportunity to work for and with such a is an initiative of great importance to munici- diverse and dedicated group of municipal palities, and the AMM is committed to provid- officials. ing support to our members over the next year My thanks also go to our staff who have done as we approach the implementation date. an excellent job throughout the year. They are Our lobbying activities reached well beyond an outstanding group of professionals who North America last year, as President Bell, enjoy the work they do on your behalf. Vice-President Dobrowolski and I traveled to El Last but not least, I must extend a warm Salvador in January. The purpose of this thank you to our membership for their contin- mission was to help our counterparts at The ued support, encouragement and involve- Corporation of Municipalities of the Republic ment. Your dedication to serving your commu- of El Salvador (COMURES) to develop a nities is what motivates us to move forward on lobbying and communications strategy that the many issues detailed in the pages of this will assist their organization with improving annual report. I hope you enjoy it. their communities. This exchange, initiated by COMURES in 2005, is sponsored by the FCM and totally funded by the Canadian Interna- 7 tional Development Agency (CIDA). It is the Joe Masi, Executive Director 7 7

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CENTRAL DISTRICT

Mel Klassen, Mayor, Town of Altona AMM Administration Committee AMM Resource Management Committee Manitoba Product Stewardship Board

Ralph Groening, Councillor, RM of Morris AMM Resource Management Committee Drainage Guidelines Committee Livestock Facilitated Community Consultation Program Sport Manitoba Committee MTS Buried Cable Committee

INTERLAKE DISTRICT

Randy Sigurdson, Mayor, Town of Arborg AMM Administration Committee Vice-Chair, AMM Social & Fiscal Issues Committee Physician Resource Coordination Office Policy Committee Manitoba Product Stewardship Board

Alice Bourgouin, Reeve, RM of Rosser AMM Administration Committee Chair, AMM Social & Fiscal Issues Committee Manitoba Water Council AMM/Government Working Group on Economic Development

MIDWESTERN DISTRICT

Roger Wilson, Reeve, RM of Birtle Vice-Chair, AMM Resource Management Committee Conservation District Commission Conservation Agreements Board Manitoba Habitat Heritage Board MPIC Review Committee

Eileen Clarke, Mayor, Town of Gladstone AMM Resource Management Committee

8 8

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EASTERN DISTRICT

Art Rempel, Councillor, City of Steinbach Chair, AMM Administration Committee AMM Social & Fiscal Issues Committee Community Investment Support Program “Tools for Change” Working Group & Awards Committee

George Harbottle, Reeve, RM of Alexander AMM Resource Management Committee Municipal Employees Benefits Board

WESTERN DISTRICT

Maxine Chacun, Councillor, Town of Virden AMM Social & Fiscal Issues Committee Public Fire Safety & Prevention Advisory Committee MPIC Review Committee MPIC Road Safety Committee MPIC Wildlife Committee

Alan Ransom, Councillor, RM of Morton AMM Resource Management Committee Office of the Fire Commissioner Advisory Committee Manitoba Emergency Services College Advisory Committee Building Officials Training Certificate Program Building Standards Board

PARKLANDS DISTRICT

Rene Maillard, Mayor, Town of Ste. Rose du Lac AMM Administration Committee AMM Social & Fiscal Issues Committee “Tools for Change” Working Group & Awards Committee Medical First Response Advisory Committee Manitoba Disaster Appeal Board Biodiesel Committee Municipal Employees Benefits Board

Robert Misko, Reeve, RM of Hillsburg Vice-Chair, AMM Administration Committee Chair, AMM Resource Management Committee Hudson Bay Route Association Tire Stewardship Interim Board 9 Planning Excellence Awards Judging Panel Aggregate Levy Committee

9 9

BOARD OF DIRECTORS & STAFF

NORTHERN CITY OF WINNIPEG MANITOBA DIRECTOR DIRECTOR MUNICIPAL ADMINISTRATORS’ Oswald Sawh, Russ Wyatt SSOCIATION Councillor Councillor A City of Thompson City of Winnipeg (MMAA)

AMM Social & Fiscal AMM Social & Fiscal Dale Lyle, President Issues Committee Issues Committee City Manager City of Portage la Prairie

AMM STAFF (Back Row L to R): Julia Green, Administrative Assistant, Board & Administration; Patti de Baets, Finance Coordinator; Erika Rempel, Administrative Assistant, Policy & Communications; Donna Belbin, Events Coordinator; Lynne Bereza, Communications Coordinator; Kimberly Ballance, Senior Policy Analyst

(Front Row L to R): Joe Masi, Executive Director; Linda Hargest, Director of Administration & Marketing; Tyler MacAfee, Director of Policy & Communications

10 10

EXECUTIVE

AMM EXECUTIVE CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT:

Urban Vice-President President Executive Director Rural Vice-President Shirley Kalyniuk, Ron Bell, Mayor Joe Masi Doug Dobrowolski, Mayor Town of Birtle Councillor Town of Rossburn RM of Macdonald

AMM Administration AMM Administration Joint Use Facilities AMM Administration Committee Committee Committee Committee AMM Resource AMM Resource Public Sector AMM Resource Management Management Accounting Board Management Committee Committee (PSAB) Steering Committee AMM Social & Fiscal AMM Social & Fiscal Committee AMM Social & Fiscal Issues Committee Issues Committee Issues Committee

Provincial/Local Provincial/Local Provincial/Local

Consultative Consultative Consultative

Committee on Committee on Committee on Infrastructure Infrastructure Infrastructure Aging Friendly Rural/ Federation of Lake Winnipeg Remote Communities Canadian Stewardship Board Initiative Steering Municipalities Manitoba Disaster Committee Federal Gas Tax Appeals Board Oversight Committee Infrastructure Council of Manitoba

11

11 11

POLICY & LOBBYING

LOBBYING HIGHLIGHTS—FEDERAL

NE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT TASKS FOR THE AMM EACH YEAR IS TO GET O KEY MUNICIPAL ISSUES ON THE PROVINCIAL AND FEDERAL RADAR. TO ACCOMPLISH THIS GOAL, THE AMM USES A VARIETY OF METHODS AND TOOLS, INCLUDING MEETING WITH MINISTERS AND OTHER ELECTED OFFICIALS, COMMENTING DURING REVIEWS OF LEGISLATION OR ON PROPOSED DIRECTIONS, AS WELL AS MEETING WITH OTHER KEY STAKEHOLDER GROUPS.

FEDERAL BUDGET CONSULTATION transfers; a commitment to equal per capita support for the Canada Health Transfer and The Federal Budget Consultation session in Canada Social Transfer; and over $16 billion Portage la Prairie was held on October 6, in new funding for infrastructure, including 2006. The AMM presented to the Finance $8.8 billion that will be available to municipali- Committee its areas of concern including ties through the Building Canada Fund (BCF). fiscal balance, infrastructure programming and disaster financial assistance. The budget also saw increased investments to preserve the environment and modernize the The AMM urged the Federal Government to health care system. This included the creation engage provincial/territorial and municipal of the National Water Strategy which will governments in a review of the roles, respon- provide $93 million over two years to improve sibilities and resources of all Canadian the quality of water in Canada’s rivers, lakes municipal governments. Lobbying efforts also and oceans. As well, a $2 billion investment focused on the need for increased resources will be made over seven years to support through the Municipal Rural Infrastructure renewable fuel production, including biofuels. Program (MRIF), the Prairie Grain Roads Program (PGRP), the National Water Supply VERTICAL FISCAL BALANCE – SENATE Expansion Program (NWSEP), and to develop STANDING COMMITTEE ON NATIONAL a tripartite program for recreation infrastruc- FINANCE ture funding. The AMM also urged the Federal Government to allocate funding for a national The AMM presented to the Senate Standing early warning system for severe weather Committee on National Finance on May 16, events, maintain levels of funding for disaster 2007. This was an opportunity for the AMM to financial assistance, and raise the compensa- discuss the issue of fiscal balance on the tion rates for the use of municipal equipment national stage. and labour in disaster recovery efforts. The AMM addressed the issue of vertical fiscal Federal Budget Day, March 19, 2007, saw the balance. The presentation indicated that government’s intention to take a fair and municipal governments only have access to principled approach to fiscal balance. This limited resource streams and therefore do not included making support for provinces and have the revenue tools they need to meet new territories long term, predictable and princi- expectations and responsibilities. The decay ples-based. This will be completed through of community infrastructure and a reduction renewed and strengthened equalization in program delivery is a direct result of limited

12 12

POLICY & LOBBYING

LOBBYING HIGHLIGHTS—FEDERAL resources and increasing responsibilities. This Northern rail lines were also specifically is not sustainable and consequently it is discussed, as increased road infrastructure necessary to undertake a review of municipal funding will not be suitable in northern government to create a fiscal balance be- Manitoba as there is only a limited road tween all orders of government. network. Rail companies need to provide appropriate levels of service so shipping and The AMM recommended passenger transportation that the Committee AMM POSITION PAPERS is adequate. develop a long-term plan to eliminate the municipal AND PRESENTATIONS ARE Mr. Tweed indicated that infrastructure deficit and the Federal Government AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD clarify roles and responsi- will be reviewing The bilities of all orders of AT WWW.AMM.MB.CA Shipping Act in Fall 2007 government. These to examine levels of strategies will begin to address the problems service requirements. This will be an opportu- associated with vertical fiscal balance. nity for the AMM and its membership to address rail concerns at the national level. CHAIRMAN OF THE STANDING COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORT PRAIRIE ASSOCIATION OF RURAL MUNICIPALITIES AND PRAIRIE URBAN The AMM met with the Honourable Merv MUNICIPAL ASSOCIATION Tweed, MP Brandon Souris and Chairman of the Standing Committee on Transport, on The AMM continues to be involved in activities August 13, 2007 to discuss ongoing concerns with the urban and rural municipal associa- regarding rail line abandonment, including: tions in Saskatchewan and Alberta. This partnership strengthens the lobbying activities • harmonization of federal and provincial of prairie municipalities. discontinuance legislation

• changes to the timelines for discontinuance For the first time on May 3-4, 2007 all five • compensation requirements specified prairie municipal associations came together under the federal legislation to address common issues. This meeting addressed a number of the AMM’s key • impacts on road infrastructure following rail concerns including fiscal balance, the Prairie line abandonment and the associated costs Grain Roads Program and water protection for municipal and provincial governments initiatives. • economic development opportunities that will be lost with rail line abandonment, and The AMM will continue to meet with neighbouring municipal associations, both • environmental impacts that are not ade- urban and rural, to strengthen the voice of quately addressed through the federal or western Canadian municipalities. provincial discontinuance processes.

13

13 13

POLICY & LOBBYING

LOBBYING HIGHLIGHTS—FEDERAL

FEDERATION OF CANADIAN MUNICIPALITIES

Another effective lobbying avenue for the AMM is the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM). As the principal voice for municipalities at the Federal level, FCM is an important avenue for the AMM to advance Manitoba municipal issues.

Here are a few highlights from the AMM’s involvement with the FCM over the last year.

FCM BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Manitoba is well represented on the FCM Board with five seats, including an automatic seat for the AMM President. The FCM Board meets four times a year and helps set the focus of the organization’s national lobbying efforts.

This year Manitoba has an additional voice on the Board as the current FCM President is Manitoba’s own Gord Steeves, Councillor for the City of Winnipeg.

FCM LOBBY DAYS

One of the main activities of the FCM each year is its Lobby Days. Similar to the AMM Lobby Days, the FCM organizes small group meetings with Members of Parliament and municipal representatives to help highlight municipal issues.

In conjunction with the FCM’s Lobby Days, the AMM organizes a Manitoba evening where Manitoba Members of Parliament have an opportunity to discuss Manitoba municipal issues with some of the Manitoba delegates.

FCM CONVENTION

Like the AMM Convention, the FCM Convention is a key event on the municipal calendar. It provides a great venue to develop a better understanding of key issues from across the country through workshops, seminars, and networking with delegates from all provinces and territories.

FCM PRAIRIES, YUKON, NORTHWEST TERRITORIES & NUNAVUT REGIONAL COMMITTEE – MANITOBA MEMBERS

PRESIDENT RON BELL, AMM

COUNCILLOR BOB BODNARUK, RM OF SPRINGFIELD

COUNCILLOR MARC MARION, RM OF DESALABERRY

COUNCILLOR JEFF MCCONNELL, TOWN OF VIRDEN

COUNCILLOR GORD STEEVES, FCM PRESIDENT -CHAIR / PRÉSIDENT(E) CITY OF WINNIPEG

COUNCILLOR RUSS WYATT, CITY OF WINNIPEG

14 14

POLICY & LOBBYING

FISCAL BALANCE

he issue of fiscal balance consumed a The AMM has brought forward the issue of T substantial amount of lobbying time and fiscal balance at the 2006 AMM Convention effort last year. It is an ongoing concern for through an informative plenary session with WHAT IS FISCAL municipalities nationwide and is currently the Enid Slack. Fiscal balance was also discussed BALANCE? top concern of the AMM. What is fiscal at our annual Cabinet meeting, Lobby Days ESSENTIALLY, balance? Essentially, fiscal balance occurs and Provincial Ministers meetings. A presenta- FISCAL BALANCE when each order of government is able to tion on it was given to the Standing Senate OCCURS WHEN provide the services required within their Committee on National Finance and to the EACH ORDER OF jurisdiction and pay for those services with Provincial/Territorial Ministers responsible for GOVERNMENT IS revenue generated by the Local Government. The ABLE TO appropriate order of govern- FCM has also assisted in PROVIDE THE ment. STRONG COMMUNITIES coordinating a nationwide SERVICES ARE THE FOUNDATION study on the roles, respon- REQUIRED Municipal government has sibilities and resources of WITHIN THEIR taken on additional responsi- OF A STRONG PROVINCE municipal governments to JURISDICTION bilities for the betterment of assist in lobbying efforts. AND PAY FOR AND COUNTRY. THOSE SERVICES the local community. Cur- This project will assist the WITH REVENUE rently municipalities have AMM in strengthening our GENERATED been required to take on a number of respon- lobbying position with the Provincial and BY THE sibilities stemming from The Water Protection Federal Governments. APPROPRIATE Act and The Drinking Water Safety Act. Yet ORDER OF there are limits to how much municipalities Fiscal balance is an ongoing concern for GOVERNMENT. can do with their current revenue streams. municipalities in Manitoba. The AMM believes “Municipalities are now expected to do more— that Manitobans and Canadians are paying because of offloading from other orders of enough tax to support municipal, provincial government, increased global competition for and national services. However, there needs human capital, and rapid growth —with the to be an equitable sharing of the revenues same limited revenue tools they have been and a rational distribution of responsibilities using since the 19th century” (FCM, 2006). among all orders of governments.

Strong communities are the foundation of a Municipalities are not asking for a handout, strong province and country. The AMM but rather for a long-term partnership that advocates for municipal governments to look serves the needs of all Canadians. Fiscal at ways of improving how they do business to balance will remain a top priority for the ensure strong, sustainable communities 2007/08 year in order to ensure that munici- across Manitoba. We hear firsthand the palities in Manitoba are working toward a fair challenges communities face and see the system of revenue distribution. The AMM will implications provincial actions have on continue to work in coordination with the municipalities. We believe it is time to take a Federation of Canadian Municipalities and the closer look at the resources available to Provincial and Federal Governments in search municipalities and take stock of the roles and of fiscal balance for all municipalities. responsibilities of municipal government in 15 Manitoba.

15 15

POLICY & LOBBYING

LOBBYING HIGHLIGHTS—PROVINCIAL

MEETING WITH CABINET President Bell thanked the Premier and Cabinet for resolving some long-standing The AMM met with Premier Doer and mem- issues, including the decision to fund inter- bers of the Provincial Cabinet on December facility patient transfers. General issues raised 19, 2006. This presentation marked the first, during the meeting included: and most important, lobbying event for the • Treaty Land Entitlements and Legal AMM for the year. Costs of Negotiating TLE Agreements • Education Tax The top issue raised with the Premier was a hot button topic for municipalities all across • Recycling Canada – fiscal balance. Money is the life- • Need for Water and Wastewater blood of governments, and municipalities Operator Training Opportunities need greater assistance to meet the demands • Increased Funding for Recreational placed on them. Across Canada, municipali- Infrastructure ties receive only eight cents out of every tax • Funding for Libraries dollar – it is simply not enough. The AMM • Disaster Financial Assistance requested a serious examination of the roles, • Artificial Flooding responsibilities and resources of municipal • Affordable Housing in Rural Manitoba governments in Manitoba. • Municipal Exemption from Provincial Water and planning issues were also raised Sales Tax during the meeting. Water protection has • Physician Recruitment, Retention and PREMIER DOER become one of the most important issues for Training AND PRESIDENT all Manitobans. While the AMM is supportive • Highways Capital Budget BELL AT THE of The Water Protection Act, there are a • Sufficient Funding for Urban Highways MANITOBA number of issues that need to be addressed, • Reinstatement of the Manitoba Airports LEGISLATURE particularly in regards to implementation. Capital Assistance Program (MACAP) and the Bridge Co-Operative Program • Rocky Mountain Doubles • Crime in Communities • Policing Costs for Municipalities • Funding for Renewable Energy • Tripartite Water Funding Program • Drainage and Conservation Districts

16 16

POLICY & LOBBYING

LOBBYING HIGHLIGHTS—PROVINCIAL

MANITOBA WATER STEWARDSHIP ment of Water Stewardship. This new branch will have a total of 25 staff, including 14 new THIS YEAR On January 8, 2007 the AMM met with the water resource officers who will be located at THE AMM HAD Honourable to discuss the various points in rural Manitoba, that will be THE OPPORTU- water quality management zone regulation, responsible for drainage and licencing. As well NITY TO MEET the Water Council and drainage concerns. the Province is amending the Offence Notices WITH ALL OF THE Regulation under The Summary Convictions KEY PROVINCIAL The AMM addressed a number of concerns Act to allow for more efficient and timely MINISTERS. with the Water Quality Management Regula- enforcement for certain offences under The THESE MEET- tion, including the fact that the regulation has Water Rights Act. INGS WERE the ability to impact munici- IMPORTANT AS pal responsibilities and The Water Council was THEY ALLOWED increase financial expendi- appointed on March THE AMM TO tures. The Water Council 15, 2007 with Alice ENSURE KEY was discussed with empha- Bourgouin, Reeve of the MUNICIPAL sis on the need for munici- RM of Rosser and AMM ISSUES WERE pal representation. Drain- Interlake Rural Director, FRONT AND age issues were raised with accepting a position on CENTRE Minister Melnick to address the high-level policy HEADING INTO ongoing concerns with the committee. THE MAY licencing and enforcement PROVINCIAL process. MANITOBA HEALTHY ELECTION. LIVING

The AMM also met with senior staff from Manitoba The AMM met with the Water Stewardship on May Honourable Kerri Irvin- 23, 2007 to discuss the The Summer 2007 Municipal Ross on January 25, AMM Water Issues Paper, Leader focused on Healthy Living 2007 to discuss the drainage licencing and joint use of facilities, enforcement, technology for water treatment funding for recreation centres, seniors and the roles of the numerous water-related independent living and seniors issues. stakeholder groups in Manitoba. This open dialogue between the AMM and Water The AMM urged the Minister to enhance Stewardship staff enabled each group to have equitable access to community and school a better perspective on relevant issues, facilities in the Province with a primary focus concerns and projects. on physical activity opportunities for children and youth, improve funding for recreation UPDATE: Following ongoing lobbying by the infrastructure and programs across Manitoba, AMM, the Province announced that a new and increase funding to Manitoba community Water Control Works and Drainage Licencing resource councils and other seniors independ- branch would be created within the Depart- ent living programs across the province to

17

17 17

POLICY & LOBBYING

LOBBYING HIGHLIGHTS—PROVINCIAL strengthen the support system available to MANITOBA SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, seniors who choose to live independently. ENERGY AND MINES

MANITOBA INFRASTRUCTURE AND The AMM met with the Honourable Jim TRANSPORTATION Rondeau on February 8, 2007 to lobby on the topics of biodiesel and ethanol initiatives, On February 8, 2007 the AMM met with the wind power, increases to the mining aggre- Honourable . Topics of discus- gate fee and recycling initiatives. sion included increased funding for infrastruc- ture, the highways capital budget, drainage The AMM talked to the Minister about promot- concerns, and rail line abandonment. ing opportunities for Manitoba communities to establish and expand the biodiesel and The AMM urged the Minister to increase ethanol industries, and the need to expand funding for infrastructure efforts to stimulate through partnerships The AMM urged the growth in Manitoba’s with the Federal Govern- wind energy sector. ment to ensure that Minister to increase As well, there was municipalities are able to funding for infrastructure extended discussion provide basic infrastruc- on the need to ture services, given through partnerships with increase the mining increasing capital and aggregate rate to operating costs. the Federal Government. better reflect the actual costs for site Drainage licencing and enforcement were also remediation and the need to adequately a focus of the conversation as municipalities support recycling initiatives province-wide. have demonstrated there have been numer- ous concerns with the efficiency and effective- UPDATE: The AMM has been lobbying for an ness of these projects. As well, the AMM aggregate fee change for a number of years urged the Minister to consider a ten-year now, and we are hopeful that the rate will be moratorium on rail line abandonment and to increased shortly. raise local concerns with the Federal Govern- ment. Minister Rondeau has announced that a new biodiesel testing facility has opened in Selkirk UPDATE: The AMM recently met with Minister to ensure that the biodiesel industry will be Lemieux to further discuss rail line abandon- able to ensure quality control of its product as ment. The Minister indicated that greater required by legislation. On the ethanol front, harmonization of the Federal and Provincial the Husky Energy ethanol production facility in processes needs to be achieved. He will be Minnedosa will soon have an annual produc- working to raise the issue to the national tion capacity of 10 million litres, allowing level. Manitoba to reach its ethanol production goal.

18 18

POLICY & LOBBYING

LOBBYING HIGHLIGHTS—PROVINCIAL

There has been movement toward implement- UPDATE: Manitoba has been pursuing an ing a province-wide tire recycling program as extended producer responsiblity (EPR) model the Industry Funded Organization has re- for recycling. Currently, Tire Stewardship leased its program plan for comment. As well, Manitoba has released a tire recycling pro- the Packaging and Printed Paper Regulation is gram plan for public comment. The Province is PRESIDENT BELL pending enactment. also addressing the next waste stream, with SPEAKS AT THE the Packaging and Printed Paper Regulation NEIGH- MANITOBA CONSERVATION pending enactment. BOURHOODS ALIVE! On February 19, 2007 the AMM met with the MANITOBA FAMILY SERVICES AND HOUSING PROGRAM Honourable to discuss recy- EXPANSION cling initiatives, provincial park issues, water The AMM met with the Honourable Gord ANNOUNCEMENT and wastewater operator training, and the hog Mackintosh on February 20, 2007 to lobby for IN PORTAGE LA industry pause. municipal housing needs in Manitoba and an PRAIRIE. expanded The AMM expressed to the Minister that there Neighbourhoods is a need to adequately support recycling Alive! program. initiatives province-wide in order for them to be sustainable and successful. The Minister The AMM told the was also told that municipalities need to see Minister that continued support for the provincial park municipalities were system, and a taxation and collection system pleased that the for permanent provincial park residents to Provincial Govern- ensure that local municipalities and school ment had ex- divisions receive the appropriate share of panded the costs for the services they provide. The AMM Neighbourhoods also discussed the need to provide training Alive! program opportunities for water and wastewater province-wide. operators within Manitoba, and the review of However, the AMM the hog industry. wanted to ensure that the funding The AMM met with the senior staff from would be main- Manitoba Conservation on May 23, 2007 to tained for the discuss water and wastewater operator original communi- training, recycling initiatives, remediation of ties of Winnipeg, contaminated sites funding, provincial park Brandon and issues and beaver control. This dialogue Thompson. The AMM also raised the inequi- between the AMM and Manitoba Conservation ties that exist in provincial housing programs staff enabled each group to have a better and the need to increase funding access to all perspective on relevant issues, concerns and communities across Manitoba. projects.

19

19 19

POLICY & LOBBYING

LOBBYING HIGHLIGHTS—PROVINCIAL

UPDATE: Following the AMM’s meeting with provincial floor standards, costs of fires Minister Mackintosh, Manitoba Family originating on crown lands and the impact of Services and Housing invited the AMM to new workplace legislation on municipalities. participate in a consultation session to develop a new set of housing programs. The The AMM discussed the need for province- AMM discussed the need to increase funding wide 911 coverage, adequate staffing in access to all municipalities. centralized call centres, and the possibility of allowing mutual aid districts to exceed the Recently the Province of Manitoba announced current funding maximum while maintaining a new set of housing programs. The AMM access by all mutual aid districts. As well, conducted a survey of its membership to firefighter and resident safety was addressed determine if the new programs would meet in the dialogue on provincial floor standards the needs of municipalities, which appears to and a review was requested for resources be the case. used to extinguish fires that start on crown lands. The new workplace legislation was also MANITOBA INTERGOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS discussed.

The AMM met with the Honourable Steve MANITOBA ABORIGINAL AND NORTHERN Ashton on February 20, 2007 to talk about a AFFAIRS major issue facing municipalities – fiscal balance. This topic was raised to address the On April 10, 2007 the AMM met with the disconnect between responsibilities of all Honourable to discuss Treaty orders of government and associated re- Land Entitlement (TLE) concerns, rail line sources required. Concerns with the growing abandonment and the Northern Healthy infrastructure deficit and the need for appro- Foods Initiative. priate growth revenues were integral to this discussion. The AMM discussed the need for a review of TLE compensation in order to seek alternative The AMM also addressed the topics of the ways to enhance the TLE process in Manitoba. Neighbourhoods Alive! program, the impact of As well, the AMM advised the Minister on the the Hog Industry Production Review, water needs of northern municipalities to ensure initiatives, disaster financial assistance that full recognition was given to the essential funding, mining aggregate fees and the services provided by the northern rail network capital region. in order to ensure that rail services continue. MANITOBA LABOUR AND IMMIGRATION The AMM also requested an update on the Northern Healthy Foods Initiative and urged On February 20, 2007 the AMM met with the the Minister to increase funding to programs Honourable to discuss municipal that ensure remote and northern communities concerns regarding centralized 911 call have access to affordable, nutritious food and centres, funding for mutual aid districts, beverages.

20 20

POLICY & LOBBYING

LOBBYING HIGHLIGHTS—PROVINCIAL

UPDATE: The AMM has recently met with the Minister of Infrastructure and Transportation, POSITION PAPERS FROM Ron Lemieux and the Honourable Merv THESE MEETINGS ARE Tweed, MP Brandon Souris and Chairman of the Standing Committee on Transport, to AVAILABLE ON THE AMM further discuss rail line abandonment. North- WEBSITE AT WWW.AMM.MB.CA ern rail line concerns were addressed as increased road infrastructure funding is not suitable in northern Manitoba as currently with the current education taxation system. As there is only a limited road network. well, the AMM inquired about the budget pledge to move to an 80:20 funding split over MANITOBA AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND RURAL five years, and stressed that this funding INITIATIVES commitment must be for operating costs. Minister Bjornson was pleased with the The AMM met with the Honourable Rosann AMM’s resolution for an 80:20 funding split Wowchuk on April 10, 2007 to talk about a and saw this as an area for increased coop- change to the education tax rebate system, eration and coordination. economic development in rural Manitoba, and land and water planning and management.

The AMM urged the Minister to improve the The AMM met with the Honourable Theresa efficiency of the Education Tax Refund system Oswald on September 19, 2007 to discuss by providing the refund through an adjust- the review of the Regional Health Authorities, ment in the municipal tax levy. As well, the physician education, recruitment and reten- AMM advocated for increased coordination of tion, municipal capital contributions to health economic development service delivery and projects, West Nile virus (WNv), funding for increased access to funding mechanisms that regional palliative care and concerns about are responsive to community needs. Finally the centralized 911 call centre. the AMM lobbied for greater coordination among all provincial departments regarding The AMM addressed the needs of municipali- the implementation of new land and water ties in relation to the RHAs, including public planning legislation. input and financial implications. The Prov- ince’s plan for dealing with the current MANITOBA EDUCATION, CITIZENSHIP AND physician shortage was discussed at length to ensure that medical professionals are avail- YOUTH able province-wide. This included the new On April 10, 2007 the AMM met with the process for assessing International Medical Minister of Education, Citizenship and Youth, Graduates. The AMM spoke about the need to the Honourable to address the eliminate municipal capital contributions for ongoing concern of education tax on property. health projects and the responsibility of the The AMM addressed the problems associated Province to cover these costs. 21

21 21

POLICY & LOBBYING

LOBBYING HIGHLIGHTS—PROVINCIAL

West Nile virus was also addressed in order to assess the Province’s responsibility to cover the costs of mandatory spraying. This issue EVERY YEAR THE AMM MEETS was particularly timely given the number of HEALTH WITH VARIOUS GROUPS AND people who have been infected with WNv MINISTER during this summer. ORGANIZATIONS TO DISCUSS AREAS OF MUTUAL INTEREST AND The AMM also urged the Minister to provide RESPONDS TO A funding for palliative care, as currently there is TO GET UPDATES ON KEY INITIA- DELEGATE’S QUESTION no dedicated funding for this important TIVES. HERE ARE A FEW EXAM- DURING THE element of health care. Finally the AMM PLES OF SOME OF THE GROUPS 2006 AMM addressed the concerns with the centralized ANNUAL 911 call centre system. THAT THE AMM MET WITH IN CONVENTION. 2007.

• Assessing Officers Association • Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs • Canadian Food Inspection Agency • Canadian Wind Energy Association • Ducks Unlimited Canada • Keystone Agricultural Producers • Manitoba Aerial Applicators Association • Manitoba Association of School Trustees • Manitoba Chamber of Commerce • Manitoba Conservation Districts The AMM spoke about Association the need to eliminate • Manitoba Fire Chiefs • Manitoba Heavy Construction municipal capital Association contributions for health • Manitoba Hydro projects and the • Manitoba Telecom Services • Provincial Ombudsman responsibility of the • Public Utilities Board Province to cover • RCMP these costs. • Recreation Connections

22 22

POLICY & LOBBYING

LOBBYING HIGHLIGHTS—PROVINCIAL

PRESIDENT BELL IS INTERVIEWED BY CJOB’S RICHARD CLOUTIER ON BUDGET DAY 2007.

MANITOBA FINANCE

The AMM met with the Honourable Greg improve access to healthy foods. All of these Selinger, Minister of Finance on October 26, will help build strong, vibrant communities. 2006 to discuss fiscal balance and priority issues for municipalities that should be The AMM remains concerned with the lack of addressed in the 2007/08 provincial budget. resources for the implementation of the requirements of the Water Protection Act. This Priority areas included water issues, educa- budget was expected to present a clear and tion tax on property, increased funding for adequate funding plan to deal with water- policing, infrastructure, recycling initiatives, related initiatives in Manitoba. While stricter and the municipal exemption from Provincial standards have been mentioned, the budget Sales Tax. Other issues discussed included failed to make a firm commitment to assist recreation and library funding, the Manitoba with the funding of the proposed require- Airports Capital Assistance Program (MACAP), ments. the Bridge Cooperative Program, and funding for weed control, drainage and renewable While the infrastructure commitments made energy projects. in the budget, including the annual invest- ment of approximately $400 million in high- Budget Day, April 4, 2007 saw a commitment ways, will help, they are lacking in light of the of a five-year plan to increase provincial total needs in communities. The budget failed funding of education to 80 per cent of the to deliver on the long-term plan needed to total costs. Commitments were also made to address the growing municipal infrastructure increase police officers and doctors as well as deficit in this province. create new environmental initiatives and

23

23 23

POLICY & LOBBYING

LOBBYING HIGHLIGHTS - SUBMISSIONS

THE WATER PROTECTION ACT – NUTRIENT in Manitoba to determine their effectiveness for managing hog production in an environ- EACH YEAR THE MANAGEMENT REGULATION AMM MONITORS mentally sustainable manner. ISSUES THAT The AMM made a submission to the Provincial The AMM indicated the role of municipalities IMPACT MUNICI- Government on January 22, 2007 regarding PALITIES. THIS is to address local concerns regarding land the proposed Nutrient Management Regula- YEAR’S LEGISLA- use. The Provincial Government is responsible tion. TIVE SESSION for environmental perspectives. Concern with WAS SLOW DUE A number of public forums were held where the impact on municipal planning and the THE PROVINCIAL Manitobans were able to express their views public process associated with both environ- ELECTION. on the proposed regulation. The AMM partici- mental assessments and the technical review HOWEVER, THE committee were also raised. AMM MADE pated in this process and made a submission SUBMISSIONS ON following the publication of the final draft. The THE RAIL SAFETY A NUMBER OF AMM Board supported ISSUES. the general concept of Communication ACT REVIEW the proposed regulation, however there were is- between RHAs and On May 10, 2007 the sues that needed to be communities needs to AMM submitted com- addressed in order for it ments to the Railway to be viable for munici- improve in order for Safety Act Review palities in Manitoba. Secretariat. The Rail RHAs to adequately Safety Act specifies The AMM continues to address local concerns. the requirements for raise concerns regarding railway crossing communication on the overall long-term pro- safety inspections, repairs and upgrades. The vincial water protection plan. Seeing the plan Grade Crossing Regulation under the Act re- only in small pieces makes it more difficult to quires increased municipal responsibility and understand both the benefits and the hazards resources from municipalities. The AMM ex- of the regulations. pressed concern with the increased offloading to municipalities from other orders of govern- HOG PRODUCTION INDUSTRY REVIEW ment. The AMM indicated that railway cross- ings are the responsibility of the Federal Gov- The AMM made an initial submission to the ernment and should not be offloaded to mu- Clean Environment Commission (CEC) on Feb- nicipalities. ruary 2, 2007. On April 25, 2007 the AMM presented a more thorough position to the REGIONAL HEALTH AUTHORITY (RHA) CEC. REVIEW

The Province of Manitoba required the CEC to The AMM made a submission to the RHA Re- investigate current environmental protection view Committee on August 15, 2007 to ad- measures in place relating to hog production dress a number of issues.

24 24

POLICY & LOBBYING

LOBBYING HIGHLIGHTS—SUBMISSIONS

Communication between RHAs and communi- NATIONAL MUNICIPAL WASTEWATER ties needs to improve in order for RHAs to EFFLUENT STRATEGY SUBMISSION adequately address local concerns. This in- cludes the requirement for municipalities to Following a consultation session for the devel- contribute to health capital projects without opment of a national Municipal Wastewater input on what the funding will be used for. Effluent Strategy held by the Canadian Council Health care services are the responsibility of of Ministers of the Environment and Manitoba the Provincial Government and offloading of Conservation, the AMM made a submission this responsibility is not acceptable. on March 1, 2007 to address a number of municipal concerns. This included concerns Increased accountability was also addressed, related to infrastructure funding, testing re- as there is a lack of public accountability quirements and frequency, priority lists for through the RHA Boards. implementation, timelines for implementation, harmonization of legislation, enforcement and The AMM brought to the attention of the Com- PRESIDENT BELL jurisdictional requirements. IS INTERVIEWED mittee that the AMM membership has had BY LOCAL MEDIA resolutions about the training, recruitment PARK DISTRICT SERVICE FEE REVIEW FOLLOWING THE and retention of medical professionals for a AMM’S number of consecutive years. This indicates On March 16, 2007 the AMM made a submis- PRESENTATION the need for increased provincial attention in sion to Manitoba Conservation regarding the TO THE CLEAN this area. review of the Park District Service Fee. The ENVIRONMENT AMM monitors this issue as it relates to the COMMISSION TIRE RECYCLING SUBMISSION AND PACKAG- ON APRIL 25, services provided by municipalities to resi- 2007. ING AND PRINTED PAPER SUBMISSION dents living within provincial parks.

On February 26, 2007 the AMM commented on the proposed Stewardship Regulation Guidelines for Product Stewards in relation to the Packaging and Printed Paper Stewardship Regulation to address the issues of program coverage area, timelines, consultations and complexity.

As well, the AMM made a submission on Au- gust 2, 2007 regarding the Tire Stewardship Manitoba (TSM) Scrap Tire Program Plan to raise some issues concerning continued con- sultation, province-wide implementation and tire stockpiles.

25

25 25

POLICY & LOBBYING

LOBBYING HIGHLIGHTS—LOBBY DAYS

he AMM met with 30 members of the T Manitoba Legislative Assembly during the AMM’s third annual “Lobby Days” held April 17 and 18, 2007.

The purpose of the two-day blitz of the Mani- toba Legislature is to meet not only with Cabinet Ministers, but also with other MLAs to ensure they are aware of the priorities of Manitoba’s municipalities. The AMM met with MLAs from all three parties represented in the Manitoba Legislature. President Bell listens as Central Urban Director Mel Klassen presents the AMM's two top During this year’s meetings, the AMM briefed municipal priorities — fiscal balance and the MLAs on two top municipal priorities: water issues. fiscal balance and water issues. AMM Presi- dent Ron Bell was pleased with this year’s Lobby Days. “With an election on the horizon, “With an election on the we needed to ensure these topics were high on everyone’s radar and I think we achieved horizon, we needed to that.” L TO R: ensure these topics were INTERLAKE The briefs presented to MLAs during Lobby high on everyone’s radar...I URBAN Days are available on the AMM website at DIRECTOR www.amm.mb.ca. think we achieved that.” RANDY President Ron Bell SIGURDSON; MLA FOR TUXEDO HEATHER STEFANSON; LEADER OF THE MANITOBA PC PARTY HUGH MCFADYEN; FORMER NORTHERN DIRECTOR BERT LAGIMODIERE; AND RURAL VICE-PRESIDENT DOUG DOBROWOLSKI

26 26

SPECIAL EVENTS

AMM MISSION TO EL SALVADOR

resident Ron Bell, Rural Vice- P President Doug Dobrowolski and Executive Director Joe Masi spent January 12-25, 2007 on a trip to El Salvador that was anything but a vacation. The mission was to develop a work plan that will assist the AMM’s El Salvadoran counter- parts, The Corporation of Municipali- ties of the Republic of El Salvador (COMURES), to move ahead with a lobbying strategy and commitment aimed at helping their organization improve their communities. L to R: Executive Director Joe Masi, Rural Vice-President Doug Dobrowolski, Canadian Ambassador to El Salvador COMURES first visited the AMM in Stéphanie Allard-Gomez, President Ron Bell, and Micheline Caron, FCM. 2006 to see how it operates and to determine how the AMM may be able to assist and experience them in developing their lobbying abilities. The with others,” he purpose of the January 2007 trip was to chart said. “Despite the course for the next several years. The plan our differences involves COMURES returning to Canada for a we have the more in-depth study on the AMM’s lobbying same goals for and communication activities, after which the our organiza- AMM will return to El Salvador. tions – to The Federation of Canadian Municipalities achieve strong (FCM) sponsors international activities for its and effective members through their International Centre municipal for Municipal Development (ICMD). All funding government. It is for the exchange comes from the Canadian what we con- International Development Agency (CIDA). stantly strive for ourselves, and if President Bell acknowledged that while the we can help time commitment is significant, the benefits COMURES to for both organizations will be substantial. “It is achieve that we exciting to be able to share our knowledge will both be better associations for it.” PRESIDENT BELL WITH A MEMBER “Despite our differences we have the same goals OF COMURES’ STAFF for our organizations – to achieve strong and effective

municipal government.” President Ron Bell 27

27 27

SPECIAL EVENTS

MRIF PROJECT UPDATE

he initial Canada-Manitoba Municipal cils in rural and northern Manitoba. The re- T Rural Infrastructure Fund (MRIF) agree- maining 20 per cent of funds are awarded to ment, announced in December 2004, in- communities with populations over 250,000. vested a total of $120 million in communities As of August 31, 2007, Applications are across Manitoba. This assessed by the year, an additional $25 67 projects totaling over Rural/Northern million will be provided $113 million have been Federal-Provincial- to MRIF through match- Local Consultative ing funds from the Gov- announced. Committee (FPLCC) ernments of Canada, on Infrastructure. Manitoba and local contributions as part of This is a six-member committee consisting of the commitment to help small communities the President and two Vice-Presidents from meet their pressing infrastructure needs. This the AMM, the President and a member of the additional funding will bring the total federal Northern Association of Community Councils and provincial investment and matching local (NACC), and an official from Manitoba Aborigi- contributions in MRIF projects to $145 million. nal and Northern Affairs.

Of the funds, 80 per cent are earmarked for As of August 31, 2007, 67 projects totaling communities with a population under over $113 million have been announced. The 250,000, including 197 municipalities and most recent funding announcement took 50 unincorporated Northern Community Coun- place in Anola on July 16, 2007.

FPLCC on Infrastructure members (L to R): Manitoba Aboriginal & Northern Affairs representative Jeff Gordon, NACC President Reg Mead, AMM President Ron Bell, AMM Urban Vice-President Shirley Kalyniuk, AMM Rural Vice-President Doug Dobrowolski

28 28

SPECIAL EVENTS

PROVINCIAL-TERRITORIAL MINISTERS

n an unprecedented example of working I together, the Association of Manitoba “This is another example Municipalities (AMM) accepted the invitation of our successful of the Province of Manitoba to address the annual meeting of Provincial-Territorial partnership with the Ministers Responsible for Local Government Association of Manitoba on July 14, 2007. The AMM was invited to present so the Ministers could hear firsthand Municipalities…” L TO R: about the key issues and challenges facing , Manitoba Minister of MANITOBA municipalities in Manitoba and across Can- Intergovernmental Affairs ada. INTERGOVERN- MENTAL AFFAIRS “This is a very significant event for the AMM,” Bell notes this opportunity was a good first MINISTER STEVE said AMM President Ron Bell. “While these step towards working with provincial local ASHTON Ministers meet annually to discuss issues that government Ministers on an ongoing basis for relate to their common goal of strong and the future health and prosperity of municipali- AMM PRESIDENT viable municipalities, they do not typically ties across Canada. “Municipalities are more RON BELL invite municipal associations to participate. than willing to work with the Province to find SASKATCHEWAN We were pleased to be invited and to provide solutions to these challenges. No single order GOVERNMENT the Ministers with input on municipal issues of government can do this alone. We need to RELATIONS and concerns." work together and we think this meeting has MINISTER HARRY started the dialogue.” "This is another example of our successful VAN MULLIGAN partnership with the Association of Manitoba Municipalities and as host province of the Provincial-Territorial annual meeting, we were extremely pleased the AMM accepted our invitation to be part of the event," said Steve Ashton, Manitoba Minister of Intergovernmen- tal Affairs.

The AMM used the opportunity to focus on two of the most significant challenges facing municipalities across Canada – infrastructure and the municipal 3R’s - the roles, responsi- bilities and resources of municipal govern- ments. Bell explains: “The harsh reality is that municipalities, for a number of varying reasons, have taken on more and more responsibility over the years but haven’t seen the accompanying resources.”

29

29 29

MEMBER SERVICES

AMM EVENTS

AMM ANNUAL CONVENTION MINISTERIAL FORUM NOVEMBER 27-30, 2006 This year’s A record-breaking 1,014 delegates attended Ministerial Forum the AMM’s 8th Annual Convention, held at the saw Premier Winnipeg Convention Centre from November Doer and seven 27-30, 2006. The theme was “Leadership Ministers take part. Minister of Intergovern- Builds Municipalities”. mental Affairs Steve Ashton chaired the forum The event kicked off with and was joined by Ron Lemieux a pre-conference (Infrastructure), Peter Bjornson (Education), seminar. A total of 427 Theresa Oswald (Health), delegates took in this (Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives), Scott informative session. Smith (Competitiveness, Training and Trade) Speakers at this year’s and Stan Struthers (Conservation).

convention included ELECTIONS keynotes Kit Grant and Jeffrey Simpson; Minis- AMM President Ron Bell was again acclaimed ter of Justice and to serve a third term as AMM President. An Attorney General of election took place for both Vice-President Canada Vic Toews; positions. Mayor Shirley Kalyniuk defeated Minister of Intergovern- Mayor Randy Sigurdson with 374 votes to mental Affairs Steve Ashton; Leader of the Sigurdson’s 349. For the position of Rural ABOVE: Manitoba Official Opposition Hugh McFadyen; Vice-President, Councillor Doug Dobrowolski Leader of the Manitoba Liberal Party Dr. Jon received 428 votes while Reeve Alice Bour- THE Gerrard; and Gloria Kovach, President of the gouin received 296. HONOURABLE VIC TOEWS Federation of Canadian Municipalities. RESOLUTIONS ADDRESSES Premier presented his annual A total of 38 resolutions were debated, with AMM address to delegates at the gala banquet. 22 carried, seven defeated, and six with- DELEGATES. Delegates also had the opportunity to attend drawn. Three were AMM standing policy. several workshops and plenary sessions.

RIGHT:

AMM MEMBERS AT THE 8TH ANNUAL CONVENTION.

30 30

MEMBER SERVICES

AMM EVENTS

JUNE DISTRICT MEETINGS JUNE 7-15, 2007

This year’s June District Meetings saw 171 municipalities represented, or 86 per cent. “I WAS AT THE GEORGE CUFF The 720 delegates heard presentations on PRESENTATION. the Public Sector Accounting Board (PSAB) THIS MAN requirements, fire protection and emergency REMINDED ME response responsibilities of municipalities, OF WHY I GOT and municipal insurance. Resolutions debated INTO MUNICIPAL totaled 51. GOVERNANCE TO MUNICIPAL OFFICIALS SEMINAR & TRADE The 2007 meetings were hosted by the Town BEGIN WITH. HE SHOW (MOS) FEBRUARY 27-28, 2007 of Lynn Lake, Town of Arborg, RM of St. WAS DIRECT, TO THE POINT AND Clements, Town of Morden, RM of Morton and A total of 674 municipal officials attended this PULLED NO Town of Boissevain, RM and Town of Shoal year’s Municipal Officials Seminar & Trade PUNCHES. HOW Lake, and RM and Town of Grandview. Show. Delegates enjoyed a wide variety of REFRESHING TO policy and professional development breakout MUNICIPAL VISITS LISTEN TO sessions. Plenary sessions included such SOMEONE Each year the AMM travels extensively topics as Public Private Partnerships, Green SPEAK IN A throughout Manitoba, meeting with local Manitoba, Growing Opportunities, Municipal FRANK AND councils to hear firsthand about the issues Leadership and Managing Unresolvable Issues. UNDERSTAND- facing these communities. The AMM visited ABLE MANNER. In conjunction with MOS, the Municipal Trading 47 municipalities in 2007. Company (MTCML) held its largest trade show IN A TIME The AMM’s goal is to meet with each munici- event of the year. This one-day trade show WHERE WE ARE pal council during their four-year term. included over 100 booths. LOOKING FOR ANSWERS, THIS AMM EDUCATION PROGRAM MAYORS, REEVES & CAOS MEETINGS MAN REMINDS MARCH 5-20, 2007 AMM members were offered four outstanding US THAT WE education sessions in 2007. The first session, HAVE THEM IF The AMM annual Mayors, Reeves and CAOs Human Resources for Elected Officials was WE CAN STAY meetings were held between March 5 and 20, held in Brandon. A panel of experts led 127 THE TRUE 2007. The AMM Executive updated partici- participants through this session. COURSE.” pants on the topics of fiscal balance, infra- structure, water and planning issues, green The second and third sessions featured Councillor issues and healthy communities, among municipal governance expert George Cuff in Dave Quinn others. both Winnipeg and Brandon. The AMM City of subsidized the sessions so the fee was only Portage 2007 hosts included RM of Lac du Bonnet, $20. A total of 140 AMM members attended. la Prairie RM of Macdonald, RM of South Cypress and Village of Glenboro, RM of Langford and Town The year’s final session, Governance Success of Neepawa, Town of Lynn Lake, Town of with Gord McIntosh, took place in Portage la Prairie and was attended by 130 delegates. Winnipeg Beach, and RM of Ste. Rose. 31

31 31

MEMBER SERVICES

COMMUNICATIONS

THE MUNICIPAL LEADER AMM WEBSITE—WWW.AMM.MB.CA The AMM’s quarterly magazine, with a distri- The AMM website continued to gain popularity bution of 1,800, focuses on a wide range of as illustrated in the graph below, with monthly timely issues. In addition to a number of visits to the website more than doubling over regular features, each issue has some special the previous year. reports and articles. Monthly Increase to AMM This past year also featured numerous articles averages website traffic geared towards those newly elected in the increased from October 2006 municipal election. 10,478 visitors per month in 259055 The Fall 2006 issue included a special 2005/2006 to report on “Justice”. Also featured was a 21,588 visitors 300000 250000 profile on three long-standing elected per month in 200000 12 573 7 officials in “Two mayors and a reeve”, a 2006/2007. 150000 comprehensive look at the fiscal balance 100000 issue, and a preview of the 8th Annual The website 50000 0 AMM Convention. also added on- line registra- Winter 2007 previewed the 2007 MOS and tion forms for Trade Show, and introduced the “Changing AMM events 2005/2006 2006/2007 face of the AMM board”. A new series titled this past year. “Anatomy of an Amalgamation” was also BI-WEEKLY NEWS BULLETIN introduced. For the newly elected, “What does the AMM do for you?” explained our The AMM’s bi-weekly news bulletin is a role in the Manitoba municipal arena. popular and efficient way to deliver timely information on AMM issues. The bulletins are Spring 2007 explored a broad topic in its distributed via email to each municipal CAO “Quality of Life” special report. It also who in turn distributes them to council, for a featured a profile of a municipality much total reach of 1,379. An additional 400+ changed in last year’s municipal election, bulletins are distributed to MLAs, Cabinet the RM of Gimli. The 2007 New Council Ministers, fraternal organizations, and recipi- Seminars were recapped, as was the 2007 ents who subscribe using a form posted on Municipal Innovation Award. the AMM website. This figure includes 83 new Summer 2007 took on an ambitious subscribers for the reporting year. special report in “Health & Healthy Living”. AMM MEMBER ADVISORIES It also touched on wind energy, profiled two interesting municipal ideas, and recapped The AMM distributes Member Advisories to both Lobby Days and the AMM Education communicate issues of immediate importance program. It also explained the Public Sector to AMM members. Five advisories were Accounting Board (PSAB) process for distributed to AMM members last year. municipalities.

32 32

MEMBER SERVICES

COMMUNICATIONS

AMM IN THE MEDIA TOP 10 MEDIA ISSUES The AMM continually strives to enhance our 2006/2007 relationship with local media. Last year, the

AMM was mentioned in Manitoba media 320 1. 8th Annual Convention times, just slightly below 2005/2006 levels, but significant in the number of issues 2. Municipal Election discussed. The AMM was mentioned in the 3. Provincial Budget context of 68 different media issues. 4. Inter-facility Patient Transfer Some of the media interviews granted were a 5. Provincial Election result of the 35 news releases and media 6. Federal Budget advisories distributed throughout the year, 7. June District Meetings while others were a product of increased awareness of the AMM’s lobbying efforts. 8. Municipal Innovation Award 9. AMM History Book The AMM Annual Convention was the top AMM story last year. It was mentioned in 86 10. MRIF news stories, or 41 per cent of total media hits.

AMM COMMENTARY

Part of the AMM’s media strategy for 2006/2007 involved writing several “commentary” pieces for broad distribution throughout Manitoba print media.

The first was a call to the Provincial Budget. Budget Needs to Build Communities focused on the need for the April 4, 2007 Provincial Budget to build communities by making a commitment to dealing with the infrastructure deficit in this province.

The second, titled Budget 2007 promising, but more to do reacted to the Provincial Budget’s failure to deliver on a long-term plan to address the growing municipal infrastructure deficit in Manitoba. On the plus side, the AMM was pleased to see Budget 2007 provide a promise from the Province to increase provincial funding of education.

Finally, Municipalities are growing up aimed to break through the vast media attention around the provincial election. This commentary highlighted the fiscal balance issue by illustrating the many ways local government impacts a typical day for a Manitoba family. 33

33 33

MEMBER SERVICES

TRADING COMPANY

This year, the he Municipalities Trading Company of MTCML was T Manitoba Ltd. (MTCML) allows AMM able to rebate members to purchase products and services another at lower prices through the power of bulk buying. $750,000 to OFFICIAL SUPPLIERS our members This past year was another great success. based on Sales remained consistent and the stable pool Acklands Grainger their MTCML of official suppliers continued to change and Airmaster Sales Ltd. sales, grow. The products sales were just over the Armtec Ltd. Bridgestone (Tires) bringing the $18,800,000 mark this year. Canada Culvert cumulative The MTCML provides a major source of CD Awards rebate over Darwen Road Technologies Ltd. revenue for the AMM and allows the AMM the past six Denray Tire membership dues to remain one of the lowest Dust Free Road Maintenance years to in Canada. Everest Supply & Services Inc. NEW $2,500,000.. Fort Distributors Ltd. MTCML REBATES 2002-2007 Goodyear (Tires) 2002 $250,000 Grand & Toy Guardian Traffic Services 2003 $300,000 Hayhurst Elias Dudek 2004 $350,000 Kal Tire 2005 $350,000 MTS Michelin (Tires) 2006 $500,000 Norquay Printers Ltd. 2007 $750,000 Orkin PCO Swat Team $2,500,000 Prairie Fuel Advisors Inc. Shippam & Associates Souris Rock Shop MTCML OFFICIAL SUPPLIERS Tirecraft Westcon Equipment & Rentals Official Suppliers are very important to the Westgro Horticultural Supplies Inc. NEW success of the MTCML. These suppliers offer hundreds of products and services that Each of our suppliers municipalities use. The Trading Company has individual contracts with each supplier, have shown long-term ensuring the best possible pricing for the commitment to the MTCML, purchasing members. In return, suppliers have direct contact with Manitoba’s municipal creating a stable purchasing market and can be a part of regular marketing environment for AMM opportunities through AMM events and communications. members.

34 34

MEMBER SERVICES

TRADING COMPANY

CORPORATE MEMBERS INSURANCE PROGRAM “There’s such a wonderful cross- Sixteen Corporate Members assist the buying All AMM members outside Winnipeg partici- section of our group in providing services and hosting events pate in the AMM's property/casualty population involved in throughout the year. They include: “protected self-insurance" program, adminis- municipal tered by HED Insurance. It includes a Borland Construction government…” Genivar $4,000,000 annual self-insurance loss pool Bob Omeniuk Guertin Equipment that keeps premiums much lower than if Canada Hayhurst Elias Dudek individual municipalities purchased their own Culvert J.R. Cousin Consultants Ltd. coverage. Insurance is then purchased from Manitoba Aboriginal & Northern various insurer providers for coverage in Affairs Manitoba Heavy Construction Assoc. excess of the $4,000,000 annual loss pool “Whether it’s Manitoba Hydro amount, to provide municipalities with about new Manitoba Ready Mix Concrete Assoc. complete protection. This allows the opportu- products or new Manitoba Pork Council nity for significant refunds in low-claims ways of doing what they’re Mazer Group Construction Equipment years. Miller Environmental Corporation already doing, P.A.T. Inc. municipal The AMM also makes available a "self- People First HR Services Ltd. clients want to Tri Core Projects Manitoba Ltd. insured" health and dental benefits program learn.” Westcon Equipment & Rentals Ltd. for employees and council members. Currently Jim Freedy 131 municipalities participate in the program, Dust Free There are also two major buying programs which offers flexible coverage options at very Road offered by the Trading Company. These reasonable rates. Maintenance programs are owned by the AMM member- ship, managed by the AMM and administered by a company that has expertise in the program area. “Municipal

FUEL SUPPLY PROGRAM officials and staff are very Prairie Fuel Advisors manages the AMM’s Fuel Supply Program. Prairie Fuel Advisors interested in helps municipalities in Alberta, Saskatche- learning more wan and Manitoba reduce their overall cost of fuels, oils, greases, and lubricants by and always negotiating better supply contracts for the have lots of total volume of these products than individ- ual municipalities can obtain on their own. questions.” Ken Fingler, This equates to approximately 44,000,000 HED Insurance litres per year for the three provinces. 35

35 35

FINANCIAL STATEMENT

36 36

FINANCIAL STATEMENT

37

37 37

FINANCIAL STATEMENT

38 38

FINANCIAL STATEMENT

39

39 39

FINANCIAL STATEMENT

40 40

FINANCIAL STATEMENT

41

41 41

FINANCIAL STATEMENT

42 42

43

43 43

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA MUNICIPALITIES

1910 Saskatchewan Avenue West Portage la Prairie, Manitoba R1N 0P1

Telephone: 204-857-8666 Fax: 204-856-2370 Email: [email protected]

WWW.AMM.MB.CA

This report is printed on 100% recycled paper.

44 44