The Community
Press Telling your story
Volume 112, Issue 41
Wednesday, April 15, 2020
New Ways to Connect
PHOTOS COURTESY COVENANT HEALTH
Rosalie Auburn and Darren Hill found a creative way to connect with their dad, Maynard Hill, who is a resident of Killam Long Term Care. Staff of the facility found a window where Maynard could visit with his children. See more Pg 2.
Flagstaff County Council closes discussion on regional governance Leslie Cholowsky Editor
Flagstaff County Council held its regular meeting on Wednesday, April 8, via live stream, with all councillors taking part. Council welcomed Peggy Weinzierl, Auditor from Gitzel and Company of the 2019 Financial Statement. Reeve Don Kroetch commended the county’s departments for preparing their budgets well and sticking to them through some hard times. Weinzierl reviewed some highlights of the financial statement with Council. Before her presentation, Kroetch asked her if there were any potential issues or landmines identified during her audit. Weinzierl responded, “Collection of taxes is an issue, as you’ll see, as well as roads and bridge inventories, with some bridges at or near the end of their useful life span. “A good number of them are fully amortized or at the end of life.”
Weinzierl went over the county’s reserves with Council, showing just two items in Operating reserves in the negatives, pointing out that one figure represented initial funds spent towards a future project that has not yet been fully started, but for which funds have been put into reserves for, and the other for cemetery funding, where $5,000 in excess funding was approved in 2019. Large transfers into capital reserves included $1.3 million for future road projects, from which $119,000 has already been paid for engineering, and another $870,000 put into bridges budget. A further $114,934 was collected in 2019 on hamlet utility bills for reserves to cover future infrastructure repair or replacement. The county had budgeted that $165,000 be set aside for the mill rate stabilization reserves, but due to bad debt, was not able to be done. Weinzierl pointed out that during 2019 bad debts expense in the amount of $2,981,241 was recorded relating to management estimates of uncollectable taxes. In See COUNCIL P9
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Premier addresses weekly newspapers in teleconference Leslie Cholowsky Editor
In a special teleconference with Alberta Weekly Newspaper Association (AWNA) editors and publishers, Premier Jason Kenney thanked community newspapers for delivering news to areas of the province not served by other media. “Thank you so much; as weekly newspapers, in many communities you are the only source for local and regional news.” He also announced an increase in Alberta’s advertising budget committed to supporting weekly newspapers and getting messages out to their readers, especially for reaching those shut-in due to COVID-19, or those who aren’t online, or don’t participate in social media. “You continue to be a very important voice in your communities.” Since that conference, held Thursday, April 9, COVID-19 cases in Alberta increased by nearly 420, with the number of deaths attributed to the virus rising from 29 to Tuesday’s count of 48. Kenney said, “We are early in the curve, we expect our numbers to get significantly worse, with a midMay peak in infections, and peak hospitalization rates in late May.” He pointed to Alberta’s slope of infection, calling it “quite gentle” and adding, “I believe we are in as good as place as we reasonably can be.” He praised Alberta Health Services (AHS) for having created a lot of excess capacity. “Our emergency wards are seeing the lowest volumes in quite some time.” He commended efforts to increase capacity, and for innovations utilized by health care providers. “What keeps me awake at night is the combined economic impact of this virus.” Kenney referred to the release last week by Stats Canada on the March labour force. “Stats show our unemployment rate has jumped 1.5 per cent to 8.7 per cent.” “I believe those numbers massively understate the true picture.” He pointed to people presently in isolation but still technically employed, and says a growth in employment in oil and gas in early March may have skewed the average-weighted results for the month. “Later this spring I expect to see unemployment in the high teens or north of 20 per cent.” He said this is a triple whammy for a province already enduring hardships due to the past few years of low economic growth, historic low prices for oil, and a global pandemic. Kenney said that is what prompted the province to See PREMIER P9 Funded by the Government of Canada
Page 12 - The Community Press, Wednesday, April 15, 2020
The Community Press, Wednesday, April 15, 2020 - Page 13
April 2020 Meetings
Flagstaff County is recruiting for the permanent full-time term position of:
C Council ouncil M Meetings eetings
Flagstaff County Council Meetings F lagstaff C ounty C ouncil M eetings aare re cconducted onducted the 2nd and 4th Wednesday W ednesday of each month a.m.. unless ccommencing ommencing at 9 a.m otherwise planned. Council C ouncil and Committee Committee meeting agendas are are aavailable vailable at the County’s C ounty ’s website website at: flagstaff.ab.ca/council/meetings-andfl agstafff.a . b.ca/council/meeetings-andminu minutes tes
780-384-4100 1-877-387-4100
Agricultural Fieldman Summary of Position:
Flagstaff County Vision:
St ay Connected Connected with U Stay Us: s:
Regular Council Meeting of April 8, 2020
The Agricultural Fieldman is responsible for the overall operations of the Agricultural Service Board (ASB) and Recreational Parks departments in order to implement and manage sound agricultural programs for the public, as determined by the Agricultural Service Board (ASB) and within parameters of related federal, provincial and municipal legislation including: Soil Conservation Act, Weed Control Act, Agricultural Pests Act and Agricultural Service Board Act.
Council Highlights briefly identify decisions made by Council. Council encourages its residents, businesses and stakeholders to keep in touch with Council news.
The Agricultural Fieldman is responsible for completing the total objectives of the Flagstaff County Business and Strategic Plan in accordance with policies and bylaws established by County Council.
To be a strong, vibrant and sustainable regional community of communities through Some key responsibilities are as follows: collaboration and a focus on • Manages the short and long-term planning, operation, delivery and evaluation of all Agricultural economic, social and environService Board (ASB) and Recreational Parks programs and services within existing policies. Develops new programs and policies in consultation with and under the direction of Council, the ASB and the mental cooperation that conChief Administrative Officer. tributes to a rural essence and • Is a member of the County’s senior management team and provides technical and administrative quality of life. support to the organization and its stakeholders. To view the full job description, please refer to the Flagstaff County website at www.flagstaff.ab.ca Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their resume along with a cover letter by mail or email to:
Email:
Council Highlights
Flagstaff County 12435 Township Road 442, PO Box 358 Sedgewick, AB T0B 4C0 Contact: Brent Hoyland, Assistant CAO Email: bhoyland@flagstaff.ab.ca Phone: 780-384-4104 Thank you to all applicants for your interest in Flagstaff County; however, only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.
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Utility Payment Deferral Program (Hamlets) Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a Utility payment deferral program was approved and will be available to all property types for the period of March 1, 2020 to June 1, 2020 with the deferred outstanding amounts to be paid back over a six (6) month period with no penalty applied to the deferral balance.
2019 Financial Statement
Prepares, monitors and is responsible for managing the department business plan within the approved budget. Prepares agendas for the Agricultural Service Board and other ASB related committee meetings and has all required background information such as program progress and budget implications. Shall act as a designated officer under the Agricultural Service Board Act; municipal inspector under the Weed Control Act; Pest Control Officer under the Agricultural Pests Act; and Soil Conservation Officer under the Soil Conservation Act. Provides leadership and works with department staff to develop and retain highly competent, customer service-oriented staff through selection, compensation, training and day-to-day management practices which support the County’s vision. Researches, prepares and administers grants or grant opportunities. Oversees recruitment, supervision, training and performance management of department personnel and makes recommendations to the Chief Administrative Officer. Maintains membership in good standing with the Association of Alberta Agricultural Fieldman.
Council approved the 2019 Audited Financial Statements. This document will be available on the Flagstaff County website.
Flagstaff Regional Emergency Services Society Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Council deferred any decision on the Flagstaff Regional Emergency Services Society until the federal and provincial governments declare the pandemic over.
Voluntary Amalgamation of Flagstaff Municipalities Flagstaff County will take no further action on voluntary amalgamation of Flagstaff municipalities activities as it pertains to the regional governance project.
Town of Sedgewick—Permission to Provide Internet Permission was granted to the Town of Sedgewick to provide internet service to County residents.
Qualifications: • A minimum of a post-secondary diploma in agricultural/environmental related discipline. • A minimum of five (5) years of related experience in an agricultural services management role; with
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Tax Repayment Agreement—Roll 413100 Council approved to enter into a tax repayment agreement with the owners of Roll 413100 for payment of taxes in the amount of $6116.66
a strong working knowledge of the principles and practices of management and supervision to enable him/her to perform his/her duties completely and effectively. Thorough knowledge of agricultural practices with a strong understanding of the principles and practices of public administration, including budgeting, purchasing and the maintenance of public records, organization and local government. Ability to develop clear and concise reports, correspondence and other written materials, with excellent communication skills. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other governmental and regulatory officials, management teams and staff, contractors and others encountered in the course of work. Pesticide Applicators Certificate (Agricultural/Industrial).
CR-01-2020 West Area Crushing All tenders for the Supply, Crush and Stockpiling of Gravel (CR-01-20) were rejected.
Intermunicipal Collaboration Frameworks Council approved the Intermunicipal Collaboration Framework with the Town of Hardisty.
Committee Reports—BREOC Council approved the recommendation from the Battle River Economic Opportunities Committee (BREOC) to approve the proposed cost sharing model package prepared by the BRIC Sustainability Working Group.
All candidates are required to undergo and pass a drug and alcohol screening as a condition of employment.
Council Meeting by Conference Call
M Monday onday to to FFriday riday 8 a.m. - 4:30 p .m. p.m. (Closed Noon - 1 p .m.) (Closed p.m.)
A Address: ddress:
12435 TTownship ownship Road 442 P.O. Box P.O. B ox 358 358 Sedgewick, Sedgewick, AB T0B 4C0
Position Type: Hours of Work: Salary Range: Closing Date:
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, any Councillor attending a Regular or Special Council meeting will be exempt from the limit of a maximum of three (3) times per calendar year to attend by electronic means that is currently in the Procedural Bylaw 08/19.
Full-Time Position Monday to Friday, 7 hours/day $88,479 - $108,818
Will remain open until a suitable candidate is selected.
Once approved, the full Council Meeting minutes can be found at www.flagstaff.ab.ca under the “Council” tab and in the “Meetings and Minutes” section.
Public Works Updates Please refer to www.flagstaff.ab.ca for up-to-date road work happening throughout the County. Winter Road Maintenance: Roadways are cleared of snow as necessary. During normal winter conditions, County gravel roads should be cleared of snow within four days, unless there is heavy snow and persistent winds. One plow truck is designated to remove snow and apply sand/salt to oil and paved surface roads. Two graders are allocated for snow and ice removal on MG30 roads. Back roads or blind roads will not be plowed unless deemed necessary by Public Works.
Flagstaff.ab.ca
Please keep in mind that our seasonal crews will be out working on our roadways and to use extreme caution while travelling on these roads while they are being maintained in any way. We thank you in advance for your cooperation during this season.
Page 14 - The Community Press, Wednesday, April 15, 2020
Distance learning the new norm for local students Emily Tanton Staff Reporter
Schools across Flagstaff have been closed for four weeks now, giving everyone involved in the school system a chance to have understood what is and isn’t working in this new normal. Distance learning can be an incredibly difficult thing to facilitate for those who aren’t used to it, and even those who are comfortable with it may be feeling suffocated with other issues arising around them. Everyone with school-aged children can attest to the fact that juggling the effects of a global pandemic as well as your child’s education is a daunting task that many are feeling overwhelmed with. When it comes to supporting a child’s learning, whether you are at home or working, it is important to understand that there are many resources available to you and your child that will make this journey through exceptional education much smoother for everyone. Jessica Hutton, the Executive Director at the Camrose Open Door, has been supporting youth/people supporting youth well before the pandemic, and now the Camrose Open Door has had an influx of students reaching out from the Battle River School Division (BRSD) as well as the Elk Island School Division as of late. Camrose Open Door can help support families who don’t have access to internet or technology during a time where all of their child’s learning is being facilitated through online courses; they are also a hub for most of the youth’s needs. There is even a dedicated Rural Outreach Worker that helps the Camrose Open Door reach families throughout East Central Alberta. The “Integrated Youth Hub” is something that Hutton describes as a “one-stop-shop” meaning when someone reaches out, they are connected to all the resources they may need (mental health, medical, education, employment, etc.). “It’s so hard for parents right now because they are being asked to work outside of the roles they are used to doing. “We are there to support both the youth and parents, and if we can do so by meeting virtually with the youth, developing plans/schedules with them, being a supportive ear, and whatever is needed; we are here to support those youth and their families.” Lynne Jenkinson, Executive Director at Flagstaff Family and Community Services, has been working closely with Hutton on ensuring that families are receiving proper support during these unsure times. Jenkinson wishes to have everyone “look at this situation in the most positive light possible, families are together, without being busy all the time; try and enjoy your time together." Lynda Kope is a career counsellor for BRSD and has had an interesting experience reaching out to students since there has been no school to find everyone at. Kope says she believes that over the past few years BRSD has become increasingly better at supporting families while their children are planning their pathways through high school and beyond. This attitude has not changed since the schools have been closed, she says, though there are some challenges, there are also unique opportunities for career counsellors in BRSD. Kope and her colleagues no longer have to interrupt entire classes to reach one student in need of assistance, and she believes that assistance will not stop or be hindered by the global pandemic.
“Families want what is best for their kids and as career counsellors, we continue to support our BRSD high school students and their families while they are learning from home.” Elizabeth Weber is a Grade 6 homeroom teacher who has been responsible for organizing the learning of children who no longer have recess with their friends to give them a break from their education throughout the day. Weber was incredibly grateful for the week of Spring Break, she says, “To completely change my way of thinking and my approach to teaching,” and says she is excited about how her classes have proceeded so far. Using apps such as Google Forms and Google Docs, Weber has streamlined how she collects work from students and made lessons and assignments easy for students to access. Screencastify is another instructional tool which allows her to record herself and her desktop simultaneously; these videos are then uploaded to her YouTube account where students can find all of her lessons. Google Meet has also been instrumental in allowing Weber to connect with her students face-to-face via video chat; talking through a screen certainly isn’t the same as an in-class conversation, but Weber says she is glad to hear the social-distancing stories of the kids she used to see daily. Weber is in a unique situation where she has her toddler to look after while teaching her Grade 6 students, something that poses more unique scenarios. “I commend those teachers that have school-age children at home. “I think it would be a challenge to teach online all day while ensuring that their own children get their learning done. I also want to commend all parents at this time. “Whether they work away from home, or at home, it would be a challenge to take on another role as homeschool facilitator. “All in all, I have been so impressed with the perseverance and hard work put in by all involved (parents, teachers, EAs, students, etc.). It's beautiful to see everyone trying their very best in these challenging times.” Trish Ryan is a high school and junior high teacher who has a child in high school, learning these new ropes alongside her. Ryan has been looking at online schooling in the most positive light she can, she says, missing her inclass connection with students but also enjoying her direct individual conversations with her students online. “Even with all of the possibilities and promise of
technology, none of these avenues can truly replace the moments we had together in one physical space.” In terms of finding ways to foster connection points with her students, Ryan has found apps like Google Classroom and Flipgrid to be most useful. Google Classroom is a virtual classroom where teachers can post assignments, videos, slideshows, and other announcements for the entire class to see, as well as parents if they request to be added. Flipgrid is a tool which Ryan has been using in place of in-class debate and discussion; this tool allows students to record their thoughts on topics as well as respond to their classmates’ ideas. Though Ryan and her colleagues are finding ways to best help your children learn independently, Ryan is adamant that no one is in this alone, and any further supports for students at home would be wellreceived. “First, no matter what age your child is, academics come second, third, fourth behind emotional wellness and mental health. “If you have to choose between their academics and your sanity, set the learning plans aside for now. “In the coming years, it will matter far more how much your child loves learning than exactly what they learned during this moment in time. Do all that you can to guard your child’s spirit and their inquisitive wonder.” Over the past month, teachers have been fine-tuning how they deliver their coursework to students, adapting to the new flexibility and structure set for students. “We are creating learning plans and materials that can be explored at any time throughout the day. Now, more than ever, we are focusing on what really matters in each content area. “We are zeroing in on the most valuable, foundational elements of each course, and working harder than ever before at packaging them in ways that will be the most inviting to explore. We are offering as much student choice and voice as possible.” Ryan urges parents and students alike to reach out to their teachers and provide feedback or general commentary on how things have been going; any sort of connection between teachers and students can be positive. “Don’t be afraid to reach out. We’re here. We would love to hear from you and your kids. Many of us have been calling, texting, emailing, and messaging to try to inspire and guide from the sidelines. “We’ll continue to be here, whenever you are ready for us.” The Camrose Open Door can be reached at 780-6796803 or info@camroseopendoor.com Their 24-hour Outreach Helpline for anyone in need of immediate support is 780-679-HELP (4357). BRSD career counsellors can be contacted by parent or student at careercounselling@brsd.ab.ca