The Community
Press Telling your story
Volume 112, Issue 33
Wednesday, February 19, 2020
Hardisty residents pack school gym for BRSD meeting
$1 Including GST
New education funding model announcement from Province Whether it will save local schools remains to be seen
Leslie Cholowsky Editor
Around 200 people came to Allan Johnstone School on Wednesday, Feb. 12, to hear a presentation from the Battle River School Division (BRSD) regarding the board's decision to consider closing the school after the 2019-20 school year. Norm Erickson, Trustee and Board Chairman, started the evening off by introducing the rest of the board. “Why are we
even having this conversation?” he asked. “Our school division is facing big challenges. We can see that populations are down and that there are also students leaving our division. We need to find solutions - viable ways to provide the most opportunities for the students we have.” Erickson told the crowd, “School closure is not pleasant. It's not something we want to do, or even entertain. Because, regardless of how you feel about school closure, all of us – and I
mean everyone in this room – cares deeply about our rural communities and about children, and that’s why we’re here. We are all rural people, from rural roots, and I can 100 per cent guarantee that every one in this room wishes we did not have to.” He urged all participants to keep the night's dialogue respectful; “We are here to talk about Allan Johnstone School (AJS) and the students and what's best for them.” See HARDISTY P8
ALLY ANDERSON PHOTO
Cutter Rally organizers from the Sedgewick Ag. Society were happy that even after a cold-weather cancellation in 2019, resuming their annual event this Saturday, Feb. 15, brought out a good number of entries, including a pair all the way from Kinderslie. The temperature wasn’t too bad, but a brisk wind had riders and passengers bundling up for the ride. Published weekly in Killam & Sedgewick, Alberta www.thecommunitypress.com
Serving Flagstaff County and Surrounding areas for over 111 years
Leslie Cholowsky Editor
Alberta Education announced a new funding model for Alberta’s kindergarten through Grade 12 education system on Tuesday, Feb. 18, which they say streamlines operations and directs more dollars to each school division. “In the 2020-21 school year, every single division will see an increase in operational funding,” the province said in its announcement. One of the biggest changes for determining funding is a change from a one-year enrollment figure by a certain date to a “moving three-year average,” minimizing the need for mid-year adjustments to school budgets, like the one that caught Battle River School Division off guard with $1.6 million less in funding than budgeted for the previous spring. Minister of Education Adriana LaGrange says, “Alberta will continue to have one of the bestfunded education systems in the country. “This new model will drive more money to our school divisions for use in the classroom and provides them with the flexibility they need to meet the unique needs of their
students. “These changes will ensure our divisions continue to be equipped to provide our students with a world-class, high-quality education.” The new model also gives school divisions more flexibility to determine how to best invest taxpayer dollars, it says in the funding announcement. The overall number of grants available to schools will be reduced from 36 to 15, not by deleting grants, but by combining and simplifying them. “School divisions will have reduced reporting obligations and more leeway to direct funding to support the needs of students.” System administration funding will now come from a targeted grant, instead of a percentage of overall funding, which will standardize administrative and governance spending to within a reasonable range, and is intended to maximize dollars intended for classrooms. Funding will be provided to support specialized learning needs or groups of students who may require additional supports, including program unit funding, funding for English as a second language stud See FUNDING P17
Funded by the Government of Canada
Page 12 - The Community Press, Wednesday, February 19, 2020
Forestburg producer wins Angus scholarship Leslie Cholowsky Editor The 15th annual Guiding Outstanding Angus Leaders conference was held over the Family Day weekend in Calgary, where 61 Canadian Angus youth gathered. During the conference a total of $11,000 in scholarships were awarded to finalists in the Canadian Angus Foundation Legacy scholarship program, including a $2,000 scholarship presented to Forestburg’s Halley Adams. Adams has a small herd of Red and Black Angus cows that she runs alongside her father and grandfather's cows at Ter-Ron Farms, the family operation. She is presenting in her third year at the University of Alberta where she is pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Animal Health with a goal of becoming a veterinarian. She’s also interested in pursuing a career in genetics and embryo work. Adams has served as president of the Alberta Junior Angus Association and her local Hastings Coulee 4-H club and is currently a director with Cana-
applicants are invited to attend the conference where an interview and panel discussion will determine which scholarship they receive. Adams finished in third place.
dian Junior Angus. The Legacy Scholarship program recognizes overall academic achievement, leadership, community involvement, and industry knowledge. The top five
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The Community Press, Wednesday, February 19, 2020 - Page 13
If you want results, contact Karen today!
BATTLE RIVER REALTY 4802 49 St, Camrose | (780) 672-7761
Karen Cannady y karen@karencannady.com
780-385-8795
REALTOR.CA
FORESTBURG
Great commercial building. Lots of smaller offices and reception area on one side, while the other side is wide open. 2 existing renters. Large storage area in the back, 2 newer furnaces and tin roof. MLS #CA0152875 $105,000.
Check this large family home with 5 bdrm, 3 baths. Spacious kitchen, Pride of ownership from the moment you walk through the door in this master suite with 5 pc ensuite and executive 5 bdrm, 4 bath home. walk-in closet. Beautifully landHuge family room, tons of storage. scaped yard, newer deck, RV Dbl car garage, RV parking in the parking, 26’x24’ detached garage. back. Underground sprinklers. MLS #CA0183186. $264,900. MLS #A0152880 $300,000.
NEW LISTING Well cared for home with multiple upgrades over the years. 3 bdrm, 2 baths. Many great features all on one level. Sunroom patio, gas fireplace, attached heated garage. This home is a must-see. MLS #CA0184499. $159,900.
Well-cared-for bi level. 4 bdrm, 2 baths. All new windows, shingles, and upgraded bathrooms. Partially fenced yard with plenty of RV parking. Detached single car garage. Paved front driveway can easily fit 2 vehicles. MLS #CA0184845. $154,900.
Brand new home, everything is completely new. 2 bdrm, 2 bath. Ideal starter or retirement home. Owner is motivated to sell. Older storage building outside. 60x125 lot. Below bank appraised value. MLS #CA0153940. $120,000.
Great family home! Watch the kids walk to school. 3 bdrm, 2 baths. Nicely renovated kitchen and dining room with large living room. Downstairs laundry, workshop, family room and 2 pc bath. Single detached garage with extra storage. MLS #CA0189108. $110,000.
FORESTBURG
REDUCED Outside storage area in Forest-
Nice sized family home located burg. Your chance to own a stornear school and downtown. age lot for RVs, boats, or vehicle. Lots of space for 20-25 RV units 3 bdrm, 1 bath, single car depending on size. Also 1 closed garage. Affordable home in storage unit, 10x20 divided into an great community. MLS 8x10 and 8x12. Lots of room to ex#CA0161025. $113,000. pand. MLS #CA0166323. $50,000.
Fantastic 4 level split located on corner lot. 3 bdrm, 3 baths. Many upgrades including new shingles. New HE forced air furnace adds bonus of central air conditioning. Dbl attached garage with large driveway. Full fenced yard with stone patio. Across from golf course. MLS #CA0172424. $295,000.
Forestburg's new subdivision containing 13 residential lots ready to build on. Located near the golf course, community centre. All services at the lot line. MLS #CA0174521. $40,600-$67,600
FORESTBURG
ACREAGES
Nice home with many upgrades over the years including an addition at the front. 2 bdrm, 2 baths, finished basement. Deck and single car garage. MLS #CA0188106. $175,000.
Nicely situated property located just off Hwy 36 between Killam and Forestburg. Well cared for 3 bdrm, 2 bath mobile with recent upgrades on 3.76 acres. 40x50 shop separated into 2 parts with heat. MLS # CA0184382 $289,900
Cute and cozy bungalow with newer windows and doors upstairs. 3 bdrm, 1 bath. Nice sized deck, gas BBQ hookup, 2 detached garages, single & dbl. MLS #CA0188095. $115,000.
ACREAGES NEW LISTING
Great opportunity to own a 4plex with a cape rate of 10-12% in Killam. All units rented. All 2 bdrm, 1 bath w/insuite laundry. Affordable way to get in the housing market. Live in an upper unit and let the others pay your mortgage! Parking stalls plus storage shed in back. MLS #CA0185546. $245,000.
Great property located just outside of Galahad. 3 bdrms, 2 baths situated on 3.76 acres. Attached heated dbl garage, older barn, and another outbuilding in good shape. MLS #CA0153121. $275,000.
this acreage is tucked away in the trees just off Hwy 14 and Hwy 26. 7.44 acres with a pond and fully fenced. 2 bdrm, 2 bath home with open concept kitchen, dining, and living room. Large deck just off the back. Detached 24x24 garage. MLS# CA0188963. $210,000.
NEW LISTING
Well taken care of acreage near Forestburg. 12.45 acres with 3 bdrm, 3 bath home that has had numerous renovations. Large covered deck is welcoming with screened in gazebo. 3 large buildings; a 40x150 workshop with large back hall; a 35x63 orkshop/garage, and a 40x230 building. All heated and powered.MLS #CA0152859. $535,000.
Great business opportunity with highway 13 frontage in Killam. Previously a convenience store and service station. 3 underground fuel storage tanks. Fiberglass tank replaced in 1999. Pressure testing and soil assessments indicate no leakage. Located on 2 lots. MLS #CA0168092. $250,000.
Cute 4 bdrm, 2 bath home. Newly renovated, original hardwood, good sized bedroom and family room in the basement. 2 newer decks, large 24x26 garage heated by pellet stove. MLS #CA0160804. $119,000.
LAKE PROPERTIES SEDGEWICK
Large lot at Buffalo Lake perfect for enjoying lake life. Only a 10 min walk from the beach. MLS #CA0152889. $118,000.
Looking for a great starter home or revenue property? This 3 bdrm, 1 bath property is currently rented for $1000 a month. Detached single garage. MLS #CA0179780. $99,900
DAYSLAND
Large family home priced well below Cute and cozy 2 bdrm, 1 bath cost of building it. 4 bdrm, 4 baths, and bungalow close to shopping and the a 5th could easily be made park. Numerous renovations, perfect for downstairs. Open concept, large deck a starter or retirement home. just off dining room. Fully fenced yard, Covered breezeway between house cement pad ready to add garage. and good sized garage with cement MLS #CA0184394. $189,900. floor. MLS #CA0166306. $39,900.
Great home for a man who loves to tinker. 2 garages, both heated. Ampe parking, plenty of room to work on your vehicles. 3 bdrm, 1 bath. Backyard maintenance free. MLS #CA0185259. $225,000.
STROME OPEN HOUSES
Check out Realtor.ca
Great residential acreage with 8.77 acres, large commercial shop and Must-see acreage in Stettler office and beautiful 4 bdrm, 3 bath County. 1.51 acres. Beautiful 2 home. "Man's Dream Shop" with 5 storey, 4 bdrm, 3 bath home large bays, 20 foot doors, office and was built in 2013 and over living quarters. Updated home with 2,500 sq ft. Heated 30x40 sunroom, deck, attached garage. garage with 220V and 2pc Electric gate with security cameras. bathroom with floor heat. MLS MLS CA0165273. $740,000. #CA0168290. $439,000.
Cute and cozy bungalow on corner Charming 1.5 storey home with 3 lot. Move-in ready with 3 bdrm and brdm, 2 baths. Situated on large 1 bath. 20x24 attached heated 100x300 lot near park. Living room garage as well as single detached and dining room are open concept. garage. Fully fenced, new furnace Attached single garage. Recent and shingles. MLS #CA0188752 upgrades. MLS #CA0172745 $84,000. $149,900.
LOUGHEED
• Thur., Feb. 20 - 5113-49 Ave Forestburg 2 to 3:30 pm • Fri., Feb. 21 - 214 -2nd Ave E Alliance - 1 to 2:30pm • Tue., Feb. 25 - 4911-50 St Lougheed - 1 to 2:30pm • Tue., Feb. 25 - 53 Sifton Cres Lougheed - 2:30 to 4pm
Cute starter or revenue property. 3 bdrm, 1 bath home with the potential to add more. Recent upgrades with partially developed basement. Large lot close to school, recreation, shopping and banking. MLS #CA00178438. $98,000.
Great family home, everything upgraded in the past 6 yrs. 6 bdrm, 3 baths. Beautiful kitchen, large fully fenced yard, double detached garage, storage shed. MLS #CA0152868. $269,900.
KILLAM
Looking for that perfect hobby farm Smaller, well-cared-for acreage in Rural Flagstaff? 5.85 acres, you’ve been waiting for! 2.13 acres fenced and cross fenced with various on Rural Flagstaff Close to shelters and pens. Spacious 5 bdrm, Hardisty. 5bdrm, 3 bath, beautifully 4 bath home. 30x50 quonset and landscaped yard. Dbl detached separate shop heated with its own garage, large heated shop. entrance. Let your imagination run MLS#CA0152887. $364,995. wild. MLS #CA0165160. $269,000.
KILLAM
With a little TLC, this 2 bdrm, 1 bath home could be a great starter home or revenue property. Corner lot w/single detached garage. MLS #CA0180183. $40,000.
Let your imagination fly, turn this beautiful church into your new home. Over 2800 sq. ft on 5 lots in Hamlet of Strome. Lots of room to add garage, garden, RV parking. New 100 amp panel. Basement. MLS #CA0184529. $115,000.
CASTOR
Older bungalow situated on a large treed lot, providing lots of privacy with a lovely step down to the pond. 3 bdrm, 2 baths. Good sized garden, covered deck, detached garage. Large living room. MLS #CA0183459. $139,900.
Cute 2 bdrm, 1 bath bungalow. Partially finished basement. Fully fenced yard with good sized shed, fire pit, and wood storage area. Great starter home or revenue property. MLS #CA0175800. $90,000.
Beautiful home in a quiet cul de sac close to the golf course. 3 bdrm, 2 baths with nice fenced yard and deck. Large master has ensuite and walk-in closet. Perfect for first-time home buyer or retirement. MLS #CA0177571. $172,000.
Beautiful 2 storey 4 bdrm, 4 bath home. Well below assessment value. Dbl attached garage, central vac, central air conditioning, spacious kitchen. Plenty of parking on this oversized lot and large driveway. MLS #CA0165088. $295,000.
ALLIANCE
14 Lots for Sale in Daysland Build the home of your dreams! Starting at $24,000
STETTLER
Investment opportunity! Your chance to own a nice sized revenue property close to school and downtown. Top and bottom units rented. Lots of parking in the back. 6 bdrm, 3 baths total. MLS #CA0177949. $239,000.
Lovely home situated on 4 LOTS. 3 bdrms, 1 bbath. Open concept. Basement partially finished. Single detached garage, large garden spot, nice deck. MLS #CA0152873. $118,000.
KINSELLA
REDUCED 4 bdrm, 2 bath home on large lot with tons of potential. 2 separate family/ living rooms on the main floor. Basement partially finished. MLS#CA0183867. $100,000.
Unique property that sits on 3 lots. 4 bdrm, 3 bath home with lots of room for growing family. Detached dbl garage with door on front and rear. Abundance of storage space. MLS #CA0174830. $84,900.
GADSBY
Here's your chance to own a nice sized mobile on its own 3 lots. 3 bdrm, 2 bath with large deck. Open floor plan. Storage buildings and ample parking. MLS #CA0152863. $119,000.
INTERESTED IN LISTING YOUR PROPERTY? CALL KAREN TODAY 780-385-8795
Page 14 - The Community Press, Wednesday, February 19, 2020
February 2020 Meetings
Council Council M Meeting eeting FFlagstaff lagstaff C County ounty C Council ouncil M Meetings eetings aare re cconducted onducted the 2nd and 4th W ednesday of each month Wednesday ccommencing ommencing at 9 a.m a.m.. unless otherwise planned. C ouncil and Committee Committee meeting Council 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-andminutes minu tes
780-384-4100 1-877-387-4100 Email: Stay Connected St ay C onnected with Us: Us:
FLAGSTAFF COUNTY 2020 SEASONAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Public Works • Class 3 Truck Driver and Light Equip. Operators 2 Positions - April 3 to November 30, 2020
Parks • Park Labourers 2 Positions - May 1 to August 31, 2020
Agricultural Service Board
• Herbicide Applicator 1 Position - May 1 to August 31, 2020
Friday, February 28, 2020
Monday Friday M onday to to Friday 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. p.m. (Closed p.m.) (Closed Noon - 1 p.m.) Address: Address:
12435 Township Township Road 442 P.O. Box 358 358 P.O. Box SSedgewick, edgewick, AB T0B 4C0
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.
The Community Press, Wednesday, February 19, 2020 - Page 15
Wheat Kings receive league hardware
LESLIE CHOLOWSKY PHOTOS
Prior to Friday night’s playoff game against the Cold Lake Ice, the North Eastern Junior B Hockey League President Ken Wilkinson made a presentation to two Killam Wheat Kings players. (Above) Wheat Kings Rookie Kobe Charchun won the League’s Rookie of the Year award, as well as being named to the second team League All Stars. (below) Tanner Eno, who will retire this year, was named to the league first team All Stars.
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Heavy Equipment Technician Flagstaff County Vision: To be a strong, vibrant and sustainable regional Community of communities through collaboration and a focus on economic, social and environmental cooperation that contributes to a rural essence and quality of life. 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: Flagstaff County 12435 TWP RD 442 PO Box 358 Sedgewick, AB T0B 4C0
The Heavy Equipment Technician is responsible for repairing, and performing maintenance to a wide variety of heavy equipment and vehicle fleets owned and/or operated by the County, in accordance with policies and bylaws established by County Council.
• • •
and maintenance to heavy equipment and vehicles. Complete work orders as work is being performed. Respond to service calls in the field and make emergency repairs as required.
•
schedules. Perform other shop related tasks and maintain a clean and safe work area. • Responsible for ensuring compliance with Flagstaff County Policies, the Health and Safety Program and the Human Resources guidelines and procedures. •
•
• •
A minimum of two (2) years of related experience in this field in order
•
(CVIP) licence. •
Contact: Kevin Kinzer, Shop Supervisor Email: kkinzer@flagstaff.ab.ca Direct: (780) 384-4106
environment as well as independently. Ability to operate light duty equipment. Basic knowledge and ability to operate heavy equipment is considered an asset. Thank you to all applicants for • Must supply a basic set of tools. their interest in Flagstaff County; • Valid class 5 driver’s licence with Q-Endorsement with drivers abstract. however only those chosen for an Class 3 preferred. interview will be contacted. All candidates are required to undergo and pass a drug and alcohol screening • •
: Hours of Work: Salary Range: Closing Date:
Permanent FullMonday to Friday, 8 hours/day $32.40/hour - $39.85/hour
Page 16 - The Community Press, Wednesday, February 19, 2020
Bergie Tourney shining example of community spirit and giving
The Wild Rose Co-op Recreation Centre was extremely surprised, touched, and grateful to Dennis Rattai (above left) for a very generous donation of $10,000 toward the Centre’s roof repair! Rattai is a member of the Bergie’s Buddies hockey team. This is the team of the late Delmore Bergum who was the team’s goalie. Bergie’s Buddies have played in the annual Bergie Tourney, held for the last six years in his memory. Roof repairs were completed just in time for this year’s tournament to begin, just days before its Feb. 1 start. Kari Sanders, one of the tournament organizers, accepted the donation. She says organizers are extremely grateful to all of those who supported the event. Besides Rattai, the following individuals deserve thanks for the event’s success: Jamie Clark, Jim Clark, Carmen Ogrodick, Crest Maertz, Wacey Hogg, Jeremy and Lynette Hayes, Erin Dowell, Marilyn O'Brien, Cheryl Rempel, Andy Clark, Justin Ness, Jeff and Jill Wallace, Roots Hair SalonCindy Clark, and Kyle Freadrich. In an attempt to thank everyone by name, she says these names were inadvertently missed from last week’s Thank you ad.
Lougheed’s Agricultural Society receives Century Award Leslie Cholowsky Editor
The Lougheed Ag Society reached a milestone this year, as it will celebrate 100 years. On Monday, Feb. 17, Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely dropped by the Field House with a special Alberta Agricultural Society Century Award, and a cake! The Alberta Agricultural Society Century Award was implemented by Agriculture and Forestry in 2014 to recognize those agricultural societies that have been making significant contributions to their communities for one hundred years or more. Lougheed Agricultural Society was incorporated in 1920, and becomes the 26th agricultural society to receive the award. Lovely said, “Our province’s agricultural
societies play an important role in ensuring rural communities are a great place to live and work. “Agricultural soci-
eties enhance quality of life by providing venues, programs, services and events. “That’s why funding for agricultural societies
is being maintained at $11.5 million through 2022-23. “Our government is committed to supporting resilient and en-
gaged rural communities through growth in Alberta's agriculture sector.” The Ag Society de-
cided that they will hold a formal celebration at a later date, possibly in conjunction with their 97th annual Fair this August.
Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely dropped by the Lougheed Field House during a meeting of the Lougheed Agricultural Society to drop off a special award and celebratory cake. Lougheed has received the Alberta Agricultural Society Century Award in recognition of their service to Lougheed and District for 100 years. Above, Back row, from left: Linda Torpe, Ken Clouston, Kim Martin, John Snethun, Lorna Bovencamp, Kelsey Fenton, John Routledge, and Marion Macdonald. Front row: Jackie Lovely, Iris Williams, Sandra Rosiechuk.
The Community Press, Wednesday, February 19, 2020 - Page 17
Don’t let your estate fall victim to double taxation FLAGSTAFF REGION SUCCESSION SERIES Taxes are bad enough the first time you have to pay them. But paying them twice? That should be avoided at all costs. And yet, too often, private company shareholders–or perhaps, more accurately, their loved ones–end up paying double tax upon the shareholder’s death. This typically happens when private company shares increase in value over the duration of ownership. To better understand how double tax exposure arises, consider the following example: Mrs. Davis, who recently passed away, was the original and sole owner of a business. Upon her death, her shares of the business were worth $1 million. The business itself also owned a piece of land–something Mrs. Davis purchased for $200,000 25 years ago. The present-day market value of that land is $1 million. Under the Canadian Income Tax Act, Mrs. Davis is considered to have a “deemed disposition” of the shares of her company–in other words, she is considered to have disposed of all capital property right before her death. This means that even though there wasn’t a sale, there can be capital gains–and those capital gains are subject to tax. Because she was the business owner and did not pay anything for her shares, Mrs. Davis has a capital gain on her final tax return of $1 million (the full value of her shares). Her tax on the capital gain is approximately 240,000. Mrs. Davis has two children who, as the beneficiaries of her will, become the owners of her shares. At this point the shares have a value of $1 million and an adjusted cost base of $1 million–meaning there is no capital gain to be realized on the children’s shares. However, shortly after the distribution of their shares, the children decide to sell the land owned by the business. The
Hardisty Continued from Page 8
submissions that you have right up until March 19.” A question about why Lougheed students didn't come to Hardisty when that school closed was asked. Erickson called it, “A great question, but one decision that was made by a previous board. We have had requests for that. Should AJS remain open, the board is seriously looking at the bus boundaries that are set right now, and we understand that those boundaries do have to be rearranged, I agree. “I don't have a full understanding of what went on before, I'm sure that they had their reasons. We have had many discussions; it's time for us to look at boundaries. There are some issues that we have to look at.” Concerns that large preschool classes in Sedgewick, Hardisty, and Lougheed could create a huge Kindergarden class next year were voiced. As well, concerns about blended classrooms and teaching cuts in the division were made as parents wondered what their children would be going into if AJS closed and they were to attend CHSPS. She confirmed that fundraising can-
not go towards teaching salaries, but might be able to be done for facilities, depending on the circumstances, giving an example of a renovation at Chester Ronning School funded by the community. Walsh answered one question about how the community could see if the budget shortfall was not due to financial mismanagement, replying that the division's books are subject to audit every year under the Education Act, and are also posted online as public information. Walsh said that the board would pay extra attention to the province's budget, coming Feb. 27, before voting on closure, especially concerning any changes to education funding. Walsh said the divisions reserves will be down to $50,000 if the whole $4.1 million is used. It was clarified at the end what deadlines are in place. Registration to appear before the board was Feb. 13, content of delegation's presentation would be due Feb. 25. The board was asked if they have considered what a school closure would do to the business community and future growth of the town, to big applause from the crowd, a question that Erickson did not directly end up responding to in the end.
land is worth $1 million and has a cost of $200,000. Therefore, on the sale of the land, the company realizes a capital gain of $800,000. The company pays $195,000 in taxes on this capital gain. At this point, Mrs. Davis’s estate has paid double tax. First, it paid $240,000 of tax on her final income tax return as a result of the capital gain on the deemed disposition of her shares, and then her company paid $195,000 on the $800,000 capital gain realized on the sale of the land On the same $1 million value, the Davis family has paid $435,000 (43.5 percent) in tax when they should have paid $240,000 (24 percent).
Tax planning: The silver bullet Various alternatives exist to help shareholders reduce their exposure to double tax. Because no two scenarios are alike, however, these alternatives must be explored ahead of time and implemented during the shareholder’s lifetime.
If you would like to adopt a tax planning strategy to protect your estate from double tax, please contact Jordyn Prior – Economic Development Coordinator at 780-384-4151 or email jprior@flagstaff.ab.ca.
Funding Continued from Front
ents, French as a second language students, refugee students, and First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students. Instead of funding based on a student count each year that isn’t calculated until the fall, the new model will use a three-year average, meaning school boards will no longer have to wait until they have a confirmed number of students at the end of September after school is already underway to find out the final funding numbers. “This should minimize school authorities having to adjust their staffing levels throughout the school year,” the announcement says. The new model will confirm funding commitments from the province by the end of March each year instead of the end of September. This should minimize a need for mid-year budget adjustments and staff adjustments during the school year, and provide boards with more predictability in their planning and budgeting processes. “A move to a block-funding model for small rural schools will also ensure the long-term viability of these schools
Michael Wetsch Senior Manager, Grant Thornton
where per-student funding does not provide adequate resources to properly deliver programs and services.” While specific details are not yet available, it is a sure bet that both the Battle River School Division and parents and communities in Round Hill, Ryley, Tofield, and Hardisty are very interested in the specifics of this change. The funding model also includes more accountability measures for school boards regarding school outcomes, community engagement, and continuous improvement. This is the first change in education funding in more than 15 years, and the province says it comes out of meetings with school divisions to discuss improvements to the way funding flows to school divisions. Specific funding details for each school division will be available in the Feb. 27 Budget 2020, to take effect for the 2020-21 year. Golden Hills School Division board Chair Laurie Huntley says, “We are pleased to see that Minister LaGrange has been responsive to our concerns for less red tape as well as targeted supports for small rural schools.” Golden Hills schools include Acme, Carbon, Trochu, Three Hills, and Drumheller schools.