Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report by Northern Rockies Regional Municipality

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality

2019 Annual Report

For the year ended December 31, 2019

About This Report

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality Fort Nelson, British Columbia, Canada

Annual Report for the year ending December 31, 2019

Designed and prepared in cooperation with all Municipal departments August 2020

Photography is the property of the NRRM unless photo credit is included.

This report is available online and is printed in a limited quantity to conserve resources.

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

Contents

Northern Rockies Municipal Vision.......................................................................................................... 4

Northern Rockies Regional Council 2018 - 2022.................................................................................... 5

2019 Appointed Officials.......................................................................................................................... 6

The NRRM - Our Story........................................................................................................................... 7

Major Services.......................................................................................................................................... 9

Did You Know?....................................................................................................................................... 11

Infrastructure Development Contribution Agreement (IDCA) Funded Projects.................................. 12

2019 Highlights...................................................................................................................................... 15

How Does a Capital Project Get in the Budget?................................................................................... 21

2020 Objectives..................................................................................................................................... 24

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality Financial Statements............................................................... 34

2019 Residential Tax Rate Comparisons............................................................................................... 56

Cost of Municipal Services ................................................................................................................... 57

Tax Exemptions...................................................................................................................................... 58

Contacts................................................................................................................................................. 60

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality Vision

Values The values expressed here are the guiding principles determining how the Municipality - as an organization conducts itself, both publicly and privately.

Fostering Partnerships Engaging & Representing regional stakeholders

Building positive relationships

Communicating in an open, clear & accessible manner

Maintaining Transparency & Accountability Being Fiscally Responsible

Leveraging the NRRMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique features Taking a Solution-Based approach

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

A communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vision provides a long-term picture of what the region wishes to become. The vision also indicates what makes the NRRM unique.

The NRRM will be resilient - using available resources to maintain balance across the economic, social and environmental wellbeing of the community. With diverse choices and ample opportunities for employment, education, recreation, housing and health and wellness services, the Northern Rockies will thrive. We will proudly embrace the character of our unique northern communities and create innovative solutions that enhance our quality of life.

Northern Rockies Regional Council

Regional Councillor Laurie Dolan

Regional Councillor John Roper

Regional Councillor Todd Penney

Mayor Gary Foster

Regional Councillor Kyle Andrews

2018 - 2022

Regional Councillor Lorraine Gerwing

Regional Councillor Danny Soles

It is the role of Council to act as the governing body of the municipality and to represent the best interests of its citizens when making decisions necessary for successful operation. Powers are exercised through resolutions or bylaws passed in open meetings. The Council is a continuing body with changes in its membership by election or appointment; as a collective body, members cannot make binding decisions independently, unless express authority has been granted or legislated. Pursuant to section 111 of the Community Charter, there were no Council members disqualified in 2019.

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

2019 Appointed Officials As of December 31, 2019

Chief Administrative Officer.........................................................................................................Scott Barry

Deputy Chief Administrative Officer............................................................................................Erin La Vale

Corporate Manager......................................................................................................................Ross Coupé

Deputy Corporate Manager.........................................................................................................Ryan Carter

Information and Privacy Head......................................................................................................Ross Coupé

Bylaw Dispute Adjudication Screening Officer.............................................................................Leonora Kneller

Director of Finance......................................................................................................................Toni Pike

Deputy Director of Finance/Collector.........................................................................................Tammy Barry

Director of Regional Development and Planning.........................................................................Jaylene MacIver

Approving Officer.........................................................................................................................Jack Stevenson

Chief Building Inspector...............................................................................................................Sean O’Shaugnessy

Regional Planner ..........................................................................................................................Richard Roy

Regional Development Officers...................................................................................................Mike Gilbert, Jack Stevenson

Director of Public Works.............................................................................................................Lou-Ann Watson

Acting Fire Chief...........................................................................................................................James Childs

Deputy Fire Chief.........................................................................................................................Hayward Sheppard

Bylaw Enforcement/Peace Officer...............................................................................................James Childs, Hayward Sheppard, Sean O’Shaughnessy

Animal Control Bylaw Enforcement Officer/Peace Officer.........................................................James Hart (contractor)

Director of Recreation Services...................................................................................................Harvey Woodland

Recreation Programs Manager.....................................................................................................Krista Pearson

Airport Manager...........................................................................................................................Eric Pike/Joshua Humphries

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

The NRRM - Our Story Our local government model is unique in BC and difficult to compare with others. Most communities within the Province are served by two local governments: the municipal government, and the regional or special purpose district. Municipal local governments often take on locally based services such as fire protection and city streets while regional districts take on services where cooperation between cities and unincorporated areas is necessary, such as solid waste, and regional parks & recreation. In the NRRM, all service responsibilities and accountabilities fall to one entity.

The Agreement cements a “mutual interest in seeing the natural gas industry in the NRRM region developed for the benefit of all British Columbians.

When looking at our unique characteristics other than our single local government model, the most obvious feature is the municipality’s vast physical size. The Northern Rockies Regional Municipality is large – 85,148 square kilometres - equivalent to 10 % of the Province of BC or 2.7 times the size of Vancouver Island. The first of its kind in BC, the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality was formally incorporated on February 6th, 2009. The creation of this unified body means that taxes from this resource-producing rural region now flow to the local government rather than the province, enabling local decision-making and input into spending. Years of effort went into the negotiation of the Infrastructure Development Contribution Agreement (IDCA) with the Province of British Columbia that the Northern Rockies signed in April, 2013.

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

The NRRM - Our Story preparation and implementation of a long term asset management plan based on best available practices of this fledgling field. The Northern Rockies partnered with Kerr Wood Leidal Engineering Consultants to prepare an award-winning Asset Management Strategy, to direct spending on this vital facet of municipal management..

The essence of the Infrastructure Development Contribution Agreement between the NRRM and the Province was to serve a â&#x20AC;&#x153;mutual interest in seeing the natural gas industry in the NRRM region developed for the benefit of all British Columbians.â&#x20AC;? The terms of this landmark agreement are founded on the implementation of a cornerstone Multi-Year Infrastructure Development (MYID) plan based on the maintenance and development of the NRRM as an industrial service centre over the twenty-year term of the contract. Part of the extensive planning that is prerequisite to the IDCA, is the

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

Major Services The Municipality is responsible for the provision of good government, services, facilities and other things that are necessary or desirable and develop and maintain safe, viable communities. Several departments work in concert to accomplish effective services. ADMINISTRATION Corporate Services is the information hub of the Municipality that controls, prepares and distributes data. Compliance with regulatory requirements is assured through coordination of records management, agenda preparation, recording of official minutes, preparing and certifying bylaws, and executing all legal documentation on behalf of the Municipality. Corporate Services acts on Council decisions and provides up-to-date procedural, policy and legislative direction to the entire organization. This department is also responsible for bylaw notice complaint screening as well as freedom of information requests. Under the umbrella of Corporate Services, Technological Services provides a common point of contact for all technology issues and is tasked with providing support to all areas of the Municipalityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s operations. This department

is also responsible for mapping & GIS (Geographic Information System), network/ data aupport, asset management, technology management and data collection/analysis. Finance is responsible for accounting, financial planning/statements and the safekeeping of the Municipalityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s funds and securities. They oversee the investment of funds and ensure that expenditures are made in accordance with Council policy, applicable bylaws, the current municipal budget and relevant legislation. The departmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cash management function includes payroll, accounts payable/receivable and ongoing financial reporting. OPERATIONS Recreation, Parks and Facilities improves the quality of life of residents in the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality by developing, operating and maintaining high quality facilities, parks, sport fields and regional parks. They also design recreation programming and host special events to foster inclusiveness, accessibility and wellness. The department also preserves the building assets and facilities of the Municipality.

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

Major Services Public Works is responsible for the installation and maintenance of urban and rural roads and grounds, drainage systems, water treatment and distribution, wastewater treatment and collection, solid waste collection and operations, cemetery operations, equipment maintenance and provision of common community services.

Public Works performs many day-to-day services including core activities such as snow clearing and hauling for streets and sidewalks, sanding, street sweeping, boulevard maintenance, provision of drinking water, the collection of wastewater, the provision of solid waste collection to urban residential areas up and down the highway, as well as troubleshooting water, sewer, drainage and storm issues. Public Works also oversees the daily operations of the airport. They maintain the airfield, buildings, and equipment and ensure compliance with all Federal and Provincial regulatory authorities to provide safe, efficient and reliable aviation facilities and services to the community. Regional Development and Planning expanded its departmental focus to reflect the scope of its responsibility, and the department name was amended to Regional Development, rather than the previous Community Development. The department continues to promote sound planning and development of our region through the provision of information and service to Regional Council, the development community and the general public. This also includes the preparation and administration of land use regulations and

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

bylaws by means of building and development permitting. As part of the departmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s function, Economic Development and Tourism focuses on strengthening and diversifying the economy across all sectors of Fort Nelson and the outlying communities of the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality. Engaging in activities to promote economic diversification and to attract and retain business, they seek to develop core amenities including medical services and educational opportunities. Fire Rescue and Bylaw Enforcement provides 24-hour fire and emergency rescue services to varying response areas throughout the Regional Municipality. Additionally, Fire Rescue provides fire prevention, fire inspection, public education, public assistance, and bylaw enforcement services. They respond to structure, vehicular and wildland/urban interface fires as well as providing First Responder service and assistance to BC Emergency Health Services.

Did you know that the NRRM is involved with the following: • • • • •

Tier 2 regional airport with regularly scheduled flights Full service Fire Rescue department Phoenix Theatre Golf Course Museum

• Public Library • Year-round Visitor Centre (contracted to Chamber of Commerce) • Regional Recreation Centre with 2 ice surfaces, indoor skating pond, curling rink and aquatic centre • Recreation Programs • Municipal and Regional parks and two campgrounds • 4.7 km of paved recreation trails • Municipal Office: Finance, Corporate Services, Regional Development and Planning • Public Works department • 11 landfills (1 active, 10 decommissioned) • 50 km of urban (paved) roads (Road Asset Management Plan) • 145 km of rural (gravel) roads (Road Asset Management Plan) • 22.3 km Sidewalks (varying types and widths) • Municipal Streetlights 265 municipally-owned, 325 leased from BC Hydro

• • • •

1,700 cubic metres (m3) winter sand annual average Water Production annual average 920,000 cubic metres (= 1.8 Billion 500 ml bottles) Treated Wastewater annual average 930,000 cubic metres 65 vehicle Fleet (pick-ups, heavy mobile, specialized)

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

85 km of Water Transmission and Distribution 8 Water Distribution Pumphouses 4 Water Pressure Reducing Stations 5 Treated Water Reservoirs 349 Hydrants and Valves 500 Mainline Valves 1,457 Industrial-Commercial-Institutional (ICI) Water Service Connections 1,412 Residential Service Connections 45 km of Sewer Collection Mains 1,300 Wastewater Service Connections 523 Manholes Rural Roads Maintenance Contract Solid Waste Operations and Collections Contracts Residential Curbside Collection Contract FNFN Service Agreements for Fire Protection and Water Services

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

2019 Highlights Infrastructure Development Contribution Agreement (IDCA) Funded Projects

Annual Infrastructure Development Plan (AIDP) Project Funding Sources 2019

The Infrastructure Development Contribution Agreement (IDCA) with the Province of BC provides up to $10 million per year from 2016 to 2035 in matching funding for capital expenditures. The process requires input, analysis and discussion during the development of the mandated Multi-Year Infrastructure Development Plan (MYIDP), the Five-Year Capital Expenditure Plan (CEP) and the Annual Infrastructure Development Plan (AIDP). Given the integration with the NRRM’s Asset Management Plan (AMP) led by consultant, Kerr Wood Leidal (KWL), it is important that the AMP is synchronized with the IDCA requirements on an ongoing basis.

28% $10M

34%

$12.4M 14% 25%

$4.9M

$8.97M

2019 Annual Infrastructure Development Plan (AIDP) In accordance with the IDCA, a new Annual Infrastructure Development Plan is prepared each year to reflect accrual conditions, and inform adaptation of medium and long-term plans. The objectives of the AIDP are: • to provide detailed reporting annually • to provide Council with the basis for making infrastructure decisions • to obtain funding approval

IDCA

NRRM

Other Grants

Carry Forward from 2018

These infrastructure investments will be funded through annual revenue and grants. The portion of funds carried forward from 2018 was associated with ongoing projects, and includes IDCA funding also carried forward from ongoing 2018 projects.

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

2019 Highlights Regional Development & Planning

As in recent years, a majority of the capital projects planned for 2020 aim at regional economic growth and diversification. The 2020 budget for Special Projects represents an 8% reduction from 2019, primarily due to a focus on the completion of a number of large-scale projects, and the initiation of new projects where grant funding exists to support them. Planning & Land Use The Bylaw Updates Special Project is intended to address a number of bylaws in need of renewal including the Business License and Regulation Bylaw, the Building Bylaw, and the creation of a Development Application Procedures Bylaw and will result in a carryover of funds from 2019 to complete the project. Regional Development Fort Nelson Community Forest: Much of the foundation for the community forest is completed and 2020 will provide for the finalization of tenure documents and governance training as well as initial board of director expenses associated with the incorporation. Economic Development Multi-year projects underway include:

Investment microsite displaying up-to-date socioeconomic indicators, among other investment-specific data and information.) Phase 2 Aspen Market Analysis: A request was submitted to extend the project to Q4 2020, with the potential to allow for the completion of the next phases of the Fort Nelson Community Forest and assist in local milling trials of aspen including business planning based on milling options. Tourism The Tourism Strategic Plan Implementation will carry on into 2020 to include the development of additional marketing initiatives targeted at increasing visitors and duration of view for tourismnorthernrockies.ca, implementation of initiatives within the NEBC Destination Development Strategy, and the potential for Council-supported initiatives stemming from recommendations of the Tourism Advisory Committee. The NRRM continues to take a lead role in the Northeast BC Tourism Marketing Cooperative which includes 8 communities across NEBC to access grant funding for collective, regional marketing through DBC. Promoting the common asset of the Alaska Highway, the Co-Op works together to leverage funds to develop and maintain a regional website (celebratealaskahighway.com), regional social media sites, purchase print advertising, attend two consumer trade shows and community/regional photo and video acquisition.

Phase 2 of the Regional Economic Strategy Project (Implementation): The completion of the Regional Economic Strategy (RES) in 2019 resulted in a series of recommendations including a high-level survey of opportunities for NRRM-based business to participate in Yukon markets, a Labour Market Study for the NRRM, the development of a Business Retention and Expansion program, and the development of an NRRM 13

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

2019 Highlights Regional Development & Planning Tourism (continued) The Northern Rockies Travel Guide, insert foldout map, fishing guide and hunting guide are updated yearly to include the best possible information on roads, stops of interest, businesses and experiences with up to date, inspiring images. Directional and promotional signage throughout the region remain a work in progress, though the inventory and quality of signage has been improved over the past number of years. The Fort Nelson Visitor Centre is operated through a contract for service with the Fort Nelson and District Chamber of Commerce. This contract includes deliverables such as: staffing the Visitor Centre with highly trained visitor counsellors; delivery of the Welcome Visitor Program; responding to inquiries and online communications in a timely manner; ensuring all relevant publications are well-stocked, current and accurate; assembling and maintaining stock of the Northern Rockies Travel Guide; and striving to achieve the Visitor Centre goals, strategies and tactics as described by DBC, including: enhancing visitor satisfaction; providing a comfortable setting; increasing visitor length of staying region; and supporting/promoting local and regional events. Now in its fourth year, the NRRM has facilitated a partnership program with regional operators along the Northern Rockies Alaska Highway corridor to offer washroom facilities to the travelling public. The partnership program was created in response to the devolution of facilities from the Provincial/Federal government to the local government level and ongoing challenges related to maintenance of those remaining.

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

A pilot project continued through 2019, in partnership with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and Public Works and Government Services Canada to maintain washroom facilities at Trutch (Mile 202), with the goal of similar facilities being developed on the northern section of the Alaska Highway in the future. Community Health Together, the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality (NRRM), Fort Nelson First Nation (FNFN) and the Northern Health Authority have formed a steering committee to act on the identified priorities of a collaborative Community Health Plan. In 2018, Shayna Dolan was enlisted to act as the Community Health Plan Implementation Lead, a position that is jointly funded by the steering committee members. The Community Health Plan: Looking to 2020 establishes six items listed below as priorities: • Increase efforts to recruit and retain health care providers. • Improve health care travel services, improve support for people who have to travel for health care and improve emergency response and transfers. • Improve maternity care locally, from prenatal registry to birthing and post-care. • Increase visiting health services and the use of tele-health (to provide local services and to reduce travel). • Improve cancer care locally. • Improve mental health and substance use services by increasing collaboration between service providers and expanding the range and impact of services.

2019 Highlights Recreation Over $25,715 in grants and sponsorships was received in 2019 from local businesses, community groups, suppliers, corporations, Province of BC, and provincial agencies. In addition to financial and supply donations, numerous hours of volunteer time were given to help make all of the great community events and programs happen. • BC Hydro provided a grant of $40,583.99 to help offset the cost of Arenas 1 and 2 and the Curling Rink LED light upgrade. • A WorkBC wage subsidy of $26,383 enabled the hiring of 4 summer labourers. • A Canada Summer Jobs grant of $7300 helped support program and event leaders to deliver summer activities. School District No. 81, Fort Nelson Curling Club, Fort Nelson Public Library, Poplar Hills Golf Course and other community groups and community members continue to provide support to recreation programs through provision of space and/or volunteers. The ice plant upgrade was a major project resulting in lower gas usage and a reduced ammonia charge. This lowers chemical costs and allows the system to be pumped down in the off season, increasing safety and eliminating requirements for certified staff. A seating area was created in the arena for wheelchair accessibility, allowing for a more inclusive viewing experience

Some of the most successful events in 2019 were: • Community Musical presentation of Aladdin Junior • June “Get to Know your Municipality” month - Facility Tours • Parent and Tot Social Saturdays • “Schools out for the Summer” Dance Party • Easter Eggstravaganza • Preschool Health Roundup • Summit Run-It (80 registrants) • Canada Day • 5K Run/Walk & Yoga • Watchamacallit • Half Marathon & Fun Run • Spookerama • Christmas Craft Fair • Christmas Tree Light Up • Skate With Santa • Holiday Indoor Movie In aquatics, new programs were added to the selection of pool activities, including: Float FIT, FERDA, and Water Walking Club. Sponsored swims included: • Halloween Swim - CUPE • Monthly (first Sunday) - FNFN • Various celebratory swims - Fort Nelson Literacy Society • November 20th - National Child Day.

Over 12,000 water bottles were refilled in the first year of having a water bottle refilling station / water fountain placed in the skaters lobby of the Rec Centre.

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

2019 Highlights Protective Services

Emergency Incident Response Comparison Chart, 2016 – 2019 120

Protective Services encompasses Fire Rescue, Emergency Operations, Bylaw Enforcement and Animal Control.

100 80

In 2019, property value that was at risk of loss due to fire incident was approximately $69 million, with a value preserved of $68 million, for a total loss of $1 million.

52 9 6

Bylaw officers responded to over 115 bylaw issue incidents in 2019. The focus of Bylaw Enforcement staff continues to be the achievement of compliance through public education.

2016

2017 2018

Major apparatus repairs and upgrades were completed on Engine-1 and 2 new F-350 Command Vehicles were put into service. Emergency fire rescue calls totalled 309 for the year. Fire 74 BC 18 Public Safety Medical 61 Haz-Mat 21 City Call Rescue 47 Investigation 21 RCMP Assist

2019

228 business inspections were completed in 2019.  Over 410 Public Education hours were logged in 2019 as crews participated in annual To this end, in 2019 there were: community events, station tours, school visits, infant car seat installation and inspections. 80+ members of the public and business received personal fire extinguisher and/or safety •  228 business inspections were completed. training. •  Over 410 Public Education hours were logged as crews participated 115 Burn Permits were issued to members of the community.

in annual community events, station tours, school visits, infant car Fire Service personnel (both Career and Paid‐on‐Call) completed a variety of specialized seat installation and inspections. technical training that resulted in the successful completion of several programs for a total of •16,844 training hours logged for 2019. 80+ members of the public and businesses received personal fire extinguisher and/or safety training.  6 Firefighters completed 32 hours of JIBC Team Leadership training • 115 Burn Permits were issued to members of the community.  

19 Firefighters completed 32 hours of Haz‐Mat Ops training 5 Firefighters signed up to begin testing for NFPA 1001 II training

Animal Control responded to 90 calls for service, with no dogs euthanized by the pound contractor. 2020 Fire Rescue Budget vs. 2019 Budget

The 2019 Fire Rescue operational budget was $397,440 the actual was over by $66,078 the During the 2019 wildfire season, there was one Emergency Operations 2020 budget operational budget is $462,125 with an increase of $64,685. Centre (EOC) activation for the Radar Road fire that involved the  Personnel budget wage increase estimate of $40K for the upcoming IAFF negotiations. evacuation of nearby residents. 

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

With the current exchange of the Canadian dollar and a need to upgrade Fire Department life safety equipment such as PPE, SCBA Cylinders and Apparatus service cost there is a small increase in the budget for services and supplies.

16 Tab 6

Page 2

2019 Highlights Protective Services (continued) Beginning in June 2019 through October 2019, bylaw officers worked with the Wildlife BC Community Coordinator to enforce the Garbage Disposal and Wildlife Attractants Bylaw. • 100 calls for service from Wildsafe BC Coordinator • Bylaw Officers issued approximately 50 Bylaw Infraction Fines

Rural Roads and Grounds 2019 was the first full year with a new contractor. This budget has been reduced further for 2020 as better scheduling and efficiencies are continuously implemented. Fleet

Public Works

No new equipment purchases are scheduled for 2020 as most units are identified as “run to fail”. The fleet is generally in sound condition with critical equipment having back-up equipment or plans (rentals) in place in the event of failure.

Urban Roads & Sidewalks

Water Treatment and Distribution

Equipment operators were able to maintain, and slightly improve efficiency associated with winter sand usage. A reduction in sand consumption has been consistent over the past 5 years due to the conscious efforts of the roads crews.

Total water consumption for 2019 was 796,582 cubic metres with bulk water forming approximately 3% of the total at 21,144 cubic metres. Water user fee revenue was $894,723, with bulk water revenue at 5.3% or $47,687.

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

2019 Highlights Public Works (continued) Wastewater Collection & Treatment Work continues to reduce vulnerability in the wastewater system. There is a continued focus to inspect and address service connections as they are aging and may cause risk to property owners. The new sewer outfall was put into service in June, with the relining of the sanitary sewer lines completed to extend the life of our collection system. The majority of the Wastewater Aeration System upgrade was completed, with commissioning completed in early 2020. The Sewerage and Drainage Climate Change Vulnerability & Adaptation Assessment was substantially completed with the final report due in early 2020. Solid Waste Management

Vermicompost Intake By Category

In 2019 the Vermicomposting facility was granted certain exemptions from the Organic Matter Recycling Regulation and the site was registered with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy. A Grant application was submitted to the Organics Infrastructure Program, and approval was received in early 2020. The development of landfill Cell 19 for the purpose of a full-scale vermicompost program was awarded to a local contractor and work is expected to commence in 2020 pending grant notification.

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

2019 Highlights Major Maintenance & Capital Projects • Major Gravel Road works included the re-surfacing of 14 kilometres of McConachie Creek Road, as well as major culvert repairs/replacements. • NRRM and Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure worked together to install two new streetlights at the pedestrian crosswalk connecting the Museum and the Visitor Information Centre. • A structural rehabilitation of 42nd Street between 55th Ave. E and Airport Drive was completed, including a required drainage upgrade. • Functional paving overlays were performed on 49th Street between 51st Ave W and Sunset, and McLeod Street. • The trenchless sewer and storm contract carryover from 2018 was completed. • Commissioning of the Water Treatment Plant’s Dissolved Air Floatation (DAF) project was completed, structural work on DAF 2 was completed with commissioning completed in January 2020.

• The Airport Drive drainage program was successfully completed by a local contractor, which included replacement and up-sizing of insufficient culverts. • Desludging of Sewer Lagoons 1-3 was completed. • Installation of the Aeration System Upgrades was completed by with commissioning in early 2020. • Rural Water West Reservoir Expansion was completed. • Pumphouse Upgrades were preformed on all three Rural Water West Pumphouses. Efforts continue to maintain service levels and increase efficiency while supporting the local economy wherever practical through the use of competitive and qualified local contractors.

• 19

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

2019 Highlights Airport

Airport operations are highly impacted by weather, as well as events such as flooding and unscheduled repairs. Operational budgets build levels of risk to ensure the ability to address events such as: more than usual amounts of snow, flooding and building repairs. Revenues continued to trend downward at the airport in 2019 as there was a general decline in all sources of revenue including landing fees, deicing and leases. The 2019 operational overall expenses fell 7% under budget.

• A grader was purchased with 100% funding from the Airport Capital Assistance Program. • A survey specific to the Obstacles Limitation Surface (OLS) at the Airport was completed, which identified several obstructions into the OLS outside of the airport fence lines. Work will be ongoing into 2020 to confirm the exact area in need of attention. • Transport Canada conducted a process inspection related to the Quality Assurance Program. Staff are continuing to work on the findings identified in the audit. • The Airport Asset Management Plan was completed with focus shifting next to business planning and strategies (Airport Master Plan) • Canadian Armed Forces conducted a tabletop exercise with NRRM staff and Emergency Responders. The purpose of the exercise was to share information surrounding capabilities from all agencies and to develop an inventory of available resources in the event of a disaster. • Airport staff conducted a tabletop exercise in accordance with Transport Canada Regulations and are working on several minor issues identified during the debriefing.

Other projects included: • As part of Phase III of the Airport Connector Main project, upgrades to the Airport Water Treatment Plant were completed and commissioning occurred in early 2020. Upgrades to the Airport Lift Station were also completed. • The Airport Reservoir Expansion, as part of Phase IV of the Airport Connector Main project, was completed and commissioned.

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

HOW DOES A CAPITAL PROJECT GET IN THE BUDGET? Most project budgets approved by Council are the result of a rigorous long-term planning and feasibility assessment process that ensures we are delivering the right project, at the right time, at the lowest sustainable cost. Occasionally a project need is identified based on an unforeseen need or opportunity (e.g. unexpected failure of an existing asset, or a new grant program that addresses a specific community need), and may bypass the first two steps of the typical process, but alternatives are carefully considered for every project before it is budgeted.

1 Most projects are conceived as part of a long-range, comprehensive plan that considers the needs to renew aging infrastructure, changing community needs, and regulatory changes.

For more information about infrastructure planning in NRRM, visit https://www.northernrockies.ca/EN/main/city / infrastructure/asset-management.html

LONG TERM CAPITAL PLAN Projects recommended by technical assessments are included in a rolling 20-year forecast of capital investment needs for the community.

The NRRM Long Term Capital Plan is a database of projects and budget needs that is used to prioritize the use of capital funds, and to prepare for large projects. Long-term capital planning enables NRRM to effectively use reserve funds and borrowing to fund large projects.

YES

PRELIMINARY PLANNING No less than 1 year prior to construction, detailed schedules and work plans begin. Background work such as survey, geotechnical and other investigation takes place to determine final design. In some cases a feasibility study is required in order to determine if an objective can be achieved, how it can be achieved, and cost estimates – in essence, to determine if the project is feasible to pursue.

GRANT RECEIVED? NO

Deferred

Infrastructure plans use technical information to make informed decisions to meet community needs in a way that is financially sustainable. These plans are typically updated about every five years.

3 Low Priority – Deferred or Cancelled

INFRASTRUCTURE PLANS

ANNUAL BUDGET Priority projects for the next fiscal year are included in the budget for approval by Council.

Some projects are included in Council’s annual budget and five-year plan subject to grant funding. If a grant is not received, the project is typically carried forward to future budgets until a grant is received and the project can proceed.

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

2020 AIDP Capital Projects Unique Project ID

Project Name

Grant

ROAD NETWORK 04‐81201 04‐81501 03‐81009 03‐81026

Road Renewal Program Streetlight Renewal 51 Ave E Sidewalk Installation

$0 $0 $0 $20,800 $0 $20,800

Roads Renewal (Gravel) Roads Renewal (Asphalt, Sidewalk, Curb)

URBAN STORMWATER (DRAINAGE) SYSTEM Drainage Renewal Program

04‐82001 04‐82201 04‐82202 04‐92201 01‐83817 01‐83825

WATER 04‐52001 04‐52201 04‐52202 04‐52203 04‐52204 04‐52205 04‐52206 01‐52532 01‐52537 03‐52006 03‐52010

Airport Drainage Renewal

Drainage Renewal Program ‐ Reserve Contribution Drainage Asset Management Plan Update Drainage CCTV Program

Drainage Master Plan‐Climate Change Variability Surface Drainage Improvements

Airport Drainage

FCM 0

Water Renewal Program

Water System Renewal ‐ Reserve Contribution Asset Renewal ‐ Water Treatment Plant Asset Renewal ‐Water Distribution Water Loss Management Assessment Water Quality Improvements Water Distribution Renewal Asset Management Plan Water Treatment Renewal Asset Management Plan

ICI Water Metering Toad River Community Water Supply Rural Water West Supply, Storage, Distribution WTP Efficiency, Treatment & Capacity Improvements

WASTEWATER (SANITARY SEWER) SYSTEM 04‐51001 04‐51202 04‐51203 04‐51204 04‐51205 04‐51501 04‐51502 04‐92202 03‐51004

Wastewater Renewal Program Wastewater System Renewal ‐ Reserve Contribution WWTP Desludging Lift Station Renewal Program Sanitary Sewer Asset Management Plan Update Sanitary Sewer CCTV Program Sanitary Sewer Collection Renewal Program WWTP Aeration System Renewal Airport Wastewater Renewal Program Airport Wastewater Rehabilitation Program Sewer Outfall Replacement

SOLID WASTE Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report 04‐85001 04‐85501

Solid Waste Renewal Program

Solid Waste Renewal ‐ Reserve Contribution Landfill Renewal

Carry Forward 2019

SPF

2020 New

$2,200,000 $500,000 $1,700,000 $0 $200,000 $2,400,000

2020 Total Budget

$2,200,000 $500,000 $1,700,000 $20,800 $200,000 $2,420,800

$500,000

$0 $0 $0 $0

$382,000 $50,000 $68,000 $160,000

$0 $0 $0 $0

$160,000 $20,000 $500,000 $1,180,000

$0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $50,000 $0 $425,000 $140,240 $615,240

$900,000 $369,000 $310,000 $66,000 $25,000 $50,000 $40,000 $40,000 $0 $50,000 $0 $0 $950,000

$900,000 $369,000 $310,000 $66,000 $25,000 $50,000 $40,000 $40,000 $50,000 $50,000 $425,000 $140,240 $1,565,240

$88,000 $0 $80,000 $0 $0 $0 $8,000 $0 $0 $0 $279,800 $367,800

$1,255,000 $123,000 $0 $40,000 $50,000 $57,000 $730,000 $255,000 $78,000 $78,000 $0 $1,333,000

$1,343,000 $123,000 $80,000 $40,000 $50,000 $57,000 $738,000 $255,000 $78,000 $78,000 $279,800 $1,700,800

$0 $0 $0

$70,000 $10,000 $60,000

Grants

$20,000 $20,000

$0 $255,000

$255,000 $0

$255,000

04‐51205 04‐51501 04‐51502 04‐92202 03‐51004

SOLID WASTE 04‐85001 04‐85501 03‐85004

AIRPORT 04‐92001 04‐92203 04‐92204 04‐92502 01‐93902 01‐93924 01‐93927 03‐92002 03‐92017 03‐92020

RECREATION

01‐77706

Sanitary Sewer CCTV Program Sanitary Sewer Collection Renewal Program WWTP Aeration System Renewal Airport Wastewater Renewal Program Airport Wastewater Rehabilitation Program Sewer Outfall Replacement

Solid Waste Renewal Program Composting/Waste Diversion

Airport Renewal Program

Rec Sound System

NDIT

Buildings and Facilities Renewal Program Building & Facility Renewal ‐ Reserve Contribution ATB Critical Asset Renewal Recreation Complex Renewal ‐ Valves Recreation Complex Renewal ‐ Heat Exchanger Parks & Recreation Structure Renewal Rec Facility Mobility Assistance & Access Townhall Mun Admin Facility Renewal Options Technology & Communication Renewal Building/Facility Asset Management Plan Update Simpson Trail Residence Renewal Toad River Hall Renewal Ice Plant Chiller Replacement Public Works Shop Hoist Public Works Building Renewal Landfill Scale Building

Interest on IDCA Debentures

Tab 4

Airport Renewal ‐ Reserve Contribution Airport Fencing Renewal Airport Master Plan Runway 08‐26

ACAP 0 ACAP

LAND DEVELOPMENT DEBT SERVICING

TOTAL

OIFP

Apron Renewal Airport Sewer Master Plan Obstacle Limitation Surface (OLS) Clearing Airport Perimeter Fence Airport Connector Main Runway 04‐22

BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES 04‐31001 04‐93203 04‐71201 04‐71202 04‐71207 04‐71209 04‐31207 04‐31209 04‐31210 04‐31211 04‐72201 04‐71501 04‐81203 04‐81502 04‐85502

Solid Waste Renewal ‐ Reserve Contribution Landfill Renewal

SPF

$0 $8,000 $0 $0 $0 $279,800 $367,800

$57,000 $730,000 $255,000 $78,000 $78,000 $0 $1,333,000

$57,000 $738,000 $255,000 $78,000 $78,000 $279,800 $1,700,800

$0 $0 $0 $222,540 $222,540

$70,000 $10,000 $60,000 $445,100 $515,100

$70,000 $10,000 $60,000 $667,640 $737,640

$50,000 $0 $0 $50,000 $0 $47,500 $0 $38,660 $0 $463,400 $0 $599,560

$13,442,300 $287,000 $50,000 $50,000 $13,055,300 $0 $40,000 $100,000 $1,291,300 $0 $19,815,500 $34,689,100

$13,492,300 $287,000 $50,000 $100,000 $13,055,300 $47,500 $40,000 $138,660 $1,291,300 $463,400 $19,815,500 $35,288,660

$0 $0

$20,000 $20,000

$13,500 $13,500

$257,000 $0 $0 $8,000 $0 $15,000 $0 $46,500 $0 $0 $0 $0 $187,500 $0 $0 $0 $257,000

$1,000,000 $97,000 $50,000 $100,000 $120,000 $0 $50,000 $0 $180,000 $20,000 $33,000 $15,000 $0 $40,000 $175,000 $120,000 $1,000,000

$1,257,000 $97,000 $50,000 $108,000 $120,000 $15,000 $50,000 $46,500 $180,000 $20,000 $33,000 $15,000 $187,500 $40,000 $175,000 $120,000 $1,257,000

$0 $0

$420,000 $420,000

$2,082,940

$42,507,200 $44,590,140 Northern Rockies Regional

$255,000 $0

$255,000

$445,100 $445,100 $13,055,300

$13,055,300

$1,291,300 $19,815,500 $34,162,100

$0 $34,895,700 Municipality 2019 Page 7

Annual Report

2020 Objectives Regional Council’s priorities for 2020 are primarily focused on sustaining capacity to support a more diverse regional economy including growing forestry and tourism, ensuring residents have equitable access to health care services, building on relationships with other organizations and enhancing communication. The NRRM’s Strategic Plan 2019-2022 indicates strengthening and diversifying the economy as a strategic priority, and the implementation stage of the Regional Economic Strategy (2018) is planned. Council has committed to making the required investments in key infrastructure to sustain service levels during current economic conditions, and prepare a solid foundation for future growth. Regional Council’s priorities for 2020 continue to focus on the maintenance of existing service levels, while keeping property taxes within acceptable limits. Renewal of existing infrastructure that is being undertaken, is being guided by an extensive Asset Management System using specific criteria to prioritize each project. The following are identified as infrastructure objectives:

Water

Airport

Renewal and upgrading of the NRRM’s water assets. Asset management and master plans for the water system will be updated in 2020 to reflect major projects completed over the past 5 years including pumphouse upgrades, reservoir upgrades and expansion, conversion of water treatment tanks from settling to dissolved air flotation and the addition of the Airport as a user to the municipal system. Updates to these plans will reconfirm direction and priorities relating to distribution, treatment, growth and sustainability. Investigations into taste and odour will commence in 2020 and renewal projects and reserve contribution will continue over the next 5 years. Renewal and upgrading of the Northern Rockies Regional Airport (NRRA). The NRRA is a vital transportation link for the NRRM to support economic activity and quality of life in the NRRM now and in the future. Industry has been clear that the upgrading and future expansion of the NRRA is fundamental to future investment and development in the NRRM. Major investments will be required in the future for the expansion of the airport to accommodate both the needs of industry and the community as a whole. In the near term, aging assets that are critical to airport operations require renewal to sustain current service levels and ensure that the facility is ready to service future growth. In 2019, the NRRM intends to continue the process of renewing and upgrading aging and deficient infrastructure at the airport, including runways, building electrical and mechanical systems, and water and wastewater systems in alignment with the newly completed Airport Asset Management Plan. The municipality is also exploring options for reducing operational costs, focusing on optimization.

Renewal and upgrading of the NRRM’s road system to maintain an acceptable level of service for existing and future users. The safety and convenience of the NRRM’s road system is essential for the functioning and growth of the community as a service centre. Engineering assessments carried out in the context of NRRM’s 2019 Roads Asset Management Roads & Plan (RAMP) (updated from the 2014 RAMP) indicated that an investment of $1.7 million per year is required to ensure that the Transportation paved road system continues to provide an acceptable level of service and that $350,000 is required to address sidewalks, curb and gutter. $0.5 million annually was identified as sufficient to ensure that the rural road system also delivers an acceptable level of service.

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

2020 Objectives Urban Stormwater Drainage

Upgrading and renewal of the Fort Nelson urban stormwater system. The NRRM completed stormwater master plans for the north and south sides of the Alaska Highway in 2015 and 2016, resulting in a prioritized capital program to mitigate risks to municipal infrastructure and private property. The NRRM also conducted a climate vulnerability assessment of its stormwater system with funding from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) and the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM), which was completed in 2019 and will inform updates to the stormwater renewal program for 2020.

Sanitary Sewer/ Wastewater

Ongoing renewal of the wastewater system. The Fort Nelson wastewater system requires ongoing sewer renewal to deliver existing levels of service. An ongoing sewer rehabilitation program has been established based on asset management planning and condition assessments to enable the NRRM to provide an acceptable level of service in the future. In 2019, the NRRM will complete desludging of the wastewater lagoons, renewal of the wastewater lagoonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aeration system and renewal of lift station components. Completion of these significant projects will allow a stronger focus on maintenance of the collection system, planning and prioritizing.

Buildings & Facilities

Upgrading and renewal of municipal buildings. The NRRM completed a Facilities Master Plan in 2018 that provides a program of system renewals in existing buildings for the next ten years. This plan refines renewal priorities identified in the Buildings and Facilities Asset Management Plan (2015). Renewal work in 2019 included improvements to communications and electrical systems of major NRRM facilities (including airport, park and recreation structures), assessing the foundation of the former Aquatic Centre, completing the cladding of the Public Works shop, and renewal of the valves at the Recreation complex. The NRRM also completed an assessment of options to renew the Town Square complex. Renewal work planned in 2020 includes improvements to the fire hall, completion of recreation centre valves replacement, heat exchange and light, as well as the replacement of the Airport Terminal HVAC system.

Solid Waste Facilities

Upgrading and renewal of solid waste facilities. The NRRM completed a vermicomposting study which will include services to enable local diversion of organics, infrastructure to perform that service and changes to the transfer station in order to enable collection of organics and other segregated materials. An asset management plan is close to finalized for the Solid Waste facility. 2020 will include completing the installation of a composting facility, bin renewal program and the replacement of the Landfill Scale Shack building which is past its useful life.

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

2020 Objectives Capital Budget FUNDED BY: Public Works Major Maintenance/Project:

Carryover

Reserve

Operations

Grants 20,000

Drainage Master Plan-Climate Change Variability

500,000 527,000

Surface Drainage Improvements

20,000

Approved Budget 20,000 500,000 520,000

Capital Asset: Streetlight Renewal

20,800

51 Ave E Sidewalk Installation

20,800

200,000 200,000

20,800 200,000 220,800

500,000 1,700,000 2,200,000

382,000 50,000 68,000 500,000

Asset Renewal Roads Roads Renewal (Gravel) Roads Renewal (Asphalt, Sidewalk, Curb)

Asset Renewal Drainage Drainage Renewal Program-Reserve Contribution Drainage Asset Management Plan Update Drainage CCTV Program

Mobile Equipment Replacement Fire Engine Tanker/Pumper 1 Replacement Wildland Interface Vehicle/Engine 3 Replacement

780,500 50,000 830,500

* Budget items that do not qualify for Infrastructure Development Contribution Agreement (IDCA) funding, but may qualify for other types of grant funding.

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

2020 Objectives Capital Budget

FUNDED BY: Water Utility Major Maintenance/Project: ICI Water Metering

Carryover

Operations

50,000 50,000

Toad RIver Community Water Supply Water/Sewer Rate Regulation, Bylaw Update

Reserve

14,000 64,000

50,000

Grants

Approved Budget 50,000 50,000 14,000 114,000

Capital Asset: Rural Water West Supply, Storage, Distribution WTP Efficiency, Treatment & Capacity Improvements

425,000 140,240 565,240

Asset Renewal: 369,000 310,000 66,000 25,000 50,000 40,000 40,000 900,000

Water System Renewal-Reserve Contribution Asset Renewal-Water Treatment Plant Asset Renewal-Water Distribution Water Loss Management Assessment Water Quality Improvements Water Distribution Renewal Asset Mgmt Plan Water Treatment Renewal Asset Mgmt Plan

369,000 310,000 66,000 25,000 50,000 40,000 40,000 900,000

Sewer Utility Capital Asset: Sewer Outfall Replacement

279,800 279,800

279,800 279,800 Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

2020 Objectives Capital Budget FUNDED BY: Sewer Utility Asset Renewal:

Carryover

Grants

255,000 255,000

123,000 80,000 40,000 50,000 371,100 738,000 255,000 1,343,000

445,100 445,100

667,640 667,640

80,000

Lift Station Renewal Program Sanitary Sewer Asset Management Plan Update Sanitary Sewer CCTV Program Sanitary Sewer Collection Renewal Program

Operations 123,000

Wastewater System Renewal Reserve Contribution WWTP Desludging

Reserve

8,000

40,000 50,000 57,000 730,000

WWTP Aeration System Renewal

88,000

1,000,000

Approved Budget

Solid Waste Capital Asset: Composting/Waste Diversion

222,540 222,540

Asset Renewal: Solid Waste Renewal-Reserve Contribution Landfill Renewal

10,000 60,000 70,000

40,000 100,000 140,000

47,500 40,000 138,660 226,160

Airport Major Maintenance/Project: Apron Renewal

47,500

Airport Sewer Master Plan Obstacle Surface Limitation (OLS) Clearing

38,660 86,160

* Budget items that do not qualify for Infrastructure Development Contribution Agreement (IDCA) funding, but may qualify for other types of grant funding. Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

2020 Objectives Capital Budget FUNDED BY: Airport Capital Asset:

Carryover

Reserve

Operations

1,291,300

Airport Perimeter Fence Airport Connector Main

Grants

463,400 19,815,500 21,106,800

Runway 04-22

463,400

Approved Budget 1,291,300 463,400 19,815,500 21,570,200

Asset Renewal: Airport Facility Renewal-Reserve Contribution Airport Drainage Airport Wastewater Rehabilitation Program Airport Fencing Renewal Airport Master Plan

50.000

287,000 160,000 78,000 50,000 50,000 625,000

13,055,300 13,055,300

13,730,300

6,500 6,500

13,500 13,500

20,000 20,000

Runway 08-26

50,000

287,000 160,000 78,000 50,000 100,000

Recreation Major Maintenance/Project: Rec Sound System

* Budget items that do not qualify for Infrastructure Development Contribution Agreement (IDCA) funding, but may qualify for other types of grant funding.

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

2020 Objectives Capital Budget FUNDED BY: Carryover

Reserve

Operations

Grants

Approved Budget

General Government Major Maintenance/Project: Municipal Website Design

85,000

Software Upgrade PLL Module

85,000

55,000 55,000

85,000 55,000 140,000

Building & Facility Renewal Asset Renewal: Building & Facility Renewal-Reserve Contribution ATB Critical Asset Renewal Recreation Complex Renewal - Valves

8,000

Recreation Complex Renewal - Heat Exchanger Parks & Recreation Structure Renewal

15,000 50,000

Rec Facility Mobility Assistance & Access Townhall Mun Admin Facility Renewal Options

46,500 180,000 20,000 33,000 15,000

Tech & Communication Systems Renewal Building/Facility Asset Management Plan Update Simpson Trail Residence Renewal Toad River Hall Renewal Ice Plant Chiller Replacement

97,000 50,000 100,000 120,000

187,500

Public Works Shop Hoist Public Works Buidling Renewal Landfill Scale Building

257,000

40,000 175,000 120,000 1,000,000

97,000 50,000 108,000 120,000 15,000 50,000 46,500 180,000 20,000 33,000 15,000 187,500 40,000 175,000 120,000 1,257,000

2020 Objectives Capital Budget FUNDED BY: Carryover

Reserve

Operations

Grants

Approved Budget

PROTECTIVE SERVICES Fire Major Maintenance/Project: 40,000

PPE Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) Fire Safe Wildfire Mitigation

40,000 18,640 15,000 73,640

18,640

Gas Monitors/Docking Station

18,640

15,000 55,000

Emergency Management Operations (EMO) Major Maintenance/Project: 25,000 11,970 23,000 25,000 84,970

EOC Capacity Building Project Evacuation Route Planning Indigenous Awareness Training ESS Capacity & Training

25,000 11,970 23,000 25,000 84,970

Animal Control Major Maintenance/Project: Wildsafe BC - Bear Aware

6,000 6,000

* Budget items that do not qualify for Infrastructure Development Contribution Agreement (IDCA) funding, but may qualify for other types of grant funding.

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

2020 Objectives Capital Budget FUNDED BY: REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT & PLANNING Planning Major Maintenance/Project: Bylaw Updates

Carryover

18,320

Reserve

Operations

Grants

11,680

2019 Wildfire Prevention Implementation 2020 Wildfire Prevention Implementation

18,320

11,680

9,000

6,000 15,000

95,350 149,300 244,650

Approved Budget

30,000 95,350 50,000 274,650

Regional Development Major Maintenance/Project: Boreal Caribou Restoration Review Economic Forecasting: EDISON

Aspen Market Analysis-Phase II

34,570 50,800 53,940

Regional Connectivity Strategy

3,810

Regional Economic Strategy-Phase II Fort Nelson Community Forest

15,240

10,000

30,000

10,000

10,000 42,930 1,200 5,000 20,000 440,390

1,200

NR Business Facade Improvement Program 9-1-1 Mobile Services

11,430

64,600

20,000

Regional Connectivity Strategy-Phase II

80,910

15,000 15,000 99,170 52,000 134,850

42,930

Love Fort Nelson Marketing Rec Centre Solar Feasibility Study Solid Waste Diversion Community Initiative

195,050

2,500 13,100 57,800

1,200 2,500 6,900 187,540

2020 Objectives Capital Budget FUNDED BY: REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT & PLANNING Tourism Major Maintenance/Project: Tourism Strategic Plan Implementation

Carryover

Reserve

Operations

25,400

69,350

12,500 138,250

7,500

25,400 7,500 75,700 64,000 30,000 12,500 215,100

736,020

4,530,230

558,160

5,824,410

7,500

Annual Tradeshow Attendance

75,700 50,050

Visitor Centre Operations Public Washroom Partnership Program Northern Rockies Hiking Guide

13,950 30,000

NEBC Tourism Marketing Consortium

Major Maintenance/Projects Capital Assets Total

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

Grants

Approved Budget

1,747,280

830,500

2,985,000

34,862,200

40,424,980

2,483,300

830,500

7,515,230

35,420,360

46,249,390

The Community Charter and Local Government Act require local governments to prepare financial statements each fiscal year (January to December). The financial statements muct be presented in accordance with Generally Accepted Account Principles for Local Government (also known as Public Sector Accounting Board Standards - PSAB) and independently audited by a qualified auditor. If you would like to know more, the Province of British Columbia has produced a Financial Statement Guide - A Guide to Local Government Financial Statements.

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

2019 Residential Tax Rates Comparison $9.61

Tumbler Ridge

$4.58

Taylor

$6.30

Fort St. John

$6.86

Dawson Creek

$7.03

Chetwynd

$2.02

NRRM Area B

$2.95

NRRM Area A without Fire Prot.

$3.72

NRRM Area A with Fire Prot.

$5.30

NRRM Town

NRRM Area A NRRM Area A with Fire without Fire NRRM Area B Chetwynd Prot. Prot. 3.68 2.91 1.98 4.31

Dawson Creek

Fort St. John

Taylor

Tumbler Ridge

5.62

4.86

3.44

7.06

Municipality

5.26

Hospital

0.04

0.57

0.53

0.84

0.59

2.15

0.70

0.60

0.56

1.96

$5.30

$3.72

$2.95

$2.02

$7.03

$6.86

$6.30

$4.58

$9.61

Peace River Reg District Total

https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/local-governments/facts-framework/statistics/tax-rates-tax-burden

Cost of Municipal Services Based on the 2019 budget, the chart shows the monthly cost of municipal services for an in-town residential property with an assessed value of $164,000, compared to some other common monthly expenses. $95.00

$100 $90

$80.00

$85.00

$80 $70 $60

$54.00

$50 $40 $30 $20 $10

$13.55 $0.14

$2.07

$2.21

$3.08

$4.31

$4.37

$5.48

$7.16

$18.31

$7.83

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

Tax Exemptions Industrial Revitalization Tax Exemption Program

Created to encourage investment and attract new industrial development as a way to increase economic activity and diversify the region’s economy and create permanent, local jobs, the Program is available to individuals or companies who: • Own property zoned either M-1 (Light Industrial), or M-2 (Heavy Industrial) and are located geographically within the NRRM Official Community Plan area. • Invest a minimum of $1,000,000 in renovations or new construction to a parcel • Create and maintain a minimum of ten (10) permanent, local positions over the term of the agreement. Projects meeting the above three minimum criteria, and fulfill other conditions outlined within the Program may be eligible for a revitalization tax exemption (on municipal property taxes) of ten (10) years, at a rate of 100% of the revitalized value of the property in years 1-5, and at a gradually reducing rate of 80%, 60%, 40%, 20%, and 10% in years 6 through 10. There have been no applications to date.

NRRM 2019 Permissive Property Tax Exemptions

Through the adoption of an annual bylaw, Council provides a permissive exemption from Municipal taxation to certain groups and organizations, which are evaluated and chosen at the discretion of Council. The legal capacity to provide these permissive tax exemptions is through powers granted to Council in the Community Charter. The purpose of granting permissive tax exemptions is to support organizations providing services considered to be an extension of Municipal services and programs that are deemed to contribute to the well-being of the community. With the exception of churches and schools, in order for an organization to be considered for a permissive tax exemption they must submit an application requesting an exemption. They must operate on a not-for-profit basis, they must be in good standing with the Registrar of Companies, and they must be apolitical and non-restrictive in their membership, executive and event participation. Permissive tax exemptions for churches and schools are handled differently. Churches and schools are granted a statutory exemption under the Community Charter, which provides for a general exemption from taxation over which Council does not have any legislative powers or authority. The exemptions granted under this legislation provide tax exemption for the main building and the land on which the building stands, leaving the remainder of the property as taxable. All permissive tax exemptions can be provided for the land or improvements of the property, or any combination thereof, in whole or in part. Partial exemptions are usually granted if only a portion of the property is used in conjunction with the criteria listed above. To coincide with the statutory powers granted through the legislation of the bylaw, Council has adopted guidelines pertaining to permissive tax exemptions as a whole as well as specific policies regarding what type of organizations will and will not be considered. The permissive tax exemptions granted for the 2019 taxation year are exempted under Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Tax Exemption Bylaw No.164, 2018 in accordance with section 224 of the Community Charter. Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

NRRM 2019 Permissive Property Tax Exemptions Roll Number

Organization

Taxable Buildings

Taxable Land $

313,000

000109.500

Fort Nelson Rod & Gun Club

71,600 $

000110.520

Historical Society Museum

22,000

116,000

2,727

000110.535

Historical Society Museum

30,100

322,000

6,497

000111.000

Catholic Episcopal Corporation of Whitehorse

37,700

48,400

1,657

385

2,814

000145.510

Northern Lamplighters Activity Centre Association

305,000

173,800

2,489

000530.000

Fort Nelson Family Development Society

89,100

146,000

484

4,646

000550.005

FN Aboriginal Friendship Society

61,700

207,000

394

5,310

000574.125

Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada

52,100

217,000

1,625

1,203

000599.000

Fort Nelson Temple Building Society

54,800

50,900

538

472

000643.000

Elks Lodge Society

95,600

151,000

805

1,102

000702.100

Christian & Missionary Alliance Canadian Pacific District

62,100

241,600

726

1,358

000720.000

FN Aboriginal Friendship Society

54,300

404

1,073

000796.100

United Church of Canada

59,700

96,900

810

700

000868.000

Northern Rockies Aboriginal Women Society

60,800

79,300

404

2,768

000879.000

Northern Rockies Aboriginal Women Society

50,700

269

1,002

000880.000

Northern Rockies Aboriginal Women Society

50,700

269

1,002

001063.000

Congregation of the Jehovah Witnesses of Fort Nelson

127,800

113,000

807

1,076

001085.471

Bhav Khandan Darbar Guru Sikh Society

30,000

20,500

553

998

005500.500

Fort Nelson Senior Citizen's Housing Complex

26,400

31,300

582

005500.640

Phoenix Theatre Mgmt Society, occupier within the Town Square

56,100

1,140,000

23,635

005500.650

Fort Nelson Public Library, occupier within the Town Square

34,200

226,000

5,142

005500.660

Northern Health Authority, occupier within the Town Square

9,300

112,000.00

2,397

005500.670

FN Playschool Society, occupier within the Town Square

12,400

126,000

2,735

005500.690

FN Chamber of Commerce, occupier with the Recreation Centre

3,100

49,300

1,035

005514.126

Northern Rockies Seniors Society

81,600

708,000

7,959

005519.225

FN Aboriginal Friendship Society

49,100

40,200

538

900

041806.100

Fort Nelson Snowmobile Club

38,800

13,700

374

041876.015

Catholic Episcopal Corporation of Whitehorse

54,000

62,100

498

408015.368

Northern Explorers Offroad Association

18,400

279

Total Value of Permissive Property Tax Exemptions: 59

Value of Permissive Tax Exemption

Non-exempt Frontage Taxes

83,157

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

NRRM Contacts The Northern Rockies Regional Municipality offers many civic services to the community. Additional services to the community are provided through the Northern Rockies Regional Recreation Centre and publicly supported institutions such as the Fort Nelson Public Library, Phoenix Theatre and the Fort Nelson Heritage Museum.

Northern Rockies Municipal Hall 5319—50 Avenue South Fort Nelson, BC V0C 1R0 250.774.2541 justask@northernrockies.ca

/Northern-Rockies-Regional-Municipality

Northern Rockies Regional Recreation Centre 5500 Alaska Highway Fort Nelson, BC V0C 1R0 250.774.2541 Option #1 rec@northernrockies.ca

/Northern-Rockies-Regional-Recreation

Tourism Northern Rockies Discover the Northern Rockies www.tourismnorthernrockies.ca Fort Nelson Visitor Information Centre Tourism Northern Rockies https://www.instagram.com/ tourismnorthernrockies/

Phoenix Theatre

5319—50 Avenue South Fort Nelson, BC V0C 1R0 250.774.2241 www.phoenixtheatre.ca/ /fortnelsonshow/

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

Fort Nelson Public Library

5319—50 Avenue South Fort Nelson, BC V0C 1R0 250.774.6700 fnpl@fortnelson.bclibrary.ca http://fortnelson.bc.libraries.coop/ /Fort-Nelson-Public-Library

Northern Rockies Regional Airport (YYE) 30 Piper Road Fort Nelson, BC V0C 1R0 250.774.6454 airport@northernrockies.ca www.flynorthernrockies.ca

Fort Nelson Heritage Museum PO Box 17, Alaska Highway Fort Nelson, BC V0C 1R0 250.774.3536 info@fortnelsonmuseum.ca www.fortnelsonmuseum.ca /fortnelsonmuseum

Poplar Hills Golf and Country Club

Radar Road, Mile 304 Old Alaska Highway Fort Nelson, BC V0C 1R0 250.774.3862 www.poplarhillsgolf.com/ /PoplarHills

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Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report

Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 5319 - 50 Avenue South, Bag Service 399 Fort Nelson, BC V0C 1R0 Website: www.NorthernRockies.ca Email: JustAsk@NorthernRockies.ca

This report is available online and is printed in a limited quantity to conserve resources. Northern Rockies Regional Municipality 2019 Annual Report