Neighbourhood Notes October 2023

Neighborhood Notes October 2023

In this Issue

• Council Highlights

Page 2

• Operations Update

Page 4

• MDP Engagements

Page 10

• Recycle Right

Page 12

Reeve’s Message

As we step into fall, the air is getting crisper, and the leaves are beginning to turn. It's that time of year when the countryside takes on a special charm, with our farmers hard at work finishing up harvest.

It’s been a very challenging year for the farming community due to the lack of moisture. Although some producers have been rather surprised with the yields of some crops, others are not so impressed. The cattle industry has generally been hit the hardest by the lack of feed and water supply. The old adage of “just hang onto the cow’s tail and she will pull you through” is getting a bit more difficult to buy into. The only bright spot is commodity prices are staying up. Not sure what next year will bring but it will be different. Hopefully considerably better.

Kneehill County crews have been busy over the summer. From road and vehicle maintenance to bridge culvert replacements to waterline repairs and park improvements, they've done a fantastic job. At the Admin Building staff are busy behind the scenes, gearing up for Budget 2024, planning ratepayer engagements, and improving internal processes to find efficiencies and keep everything running smoothly. Our Peace Officers have been patrolling the County with emphasis on gravel roads and school zones, making sure our kids stay safe. As always, Council is thankful for our incredible staff and their ongoing dedication to the County.

Coming this fall are our Municipal Development Plan (MDP) ratepayer engagements. The Working Suppers provide an excellent opportunity to have your voice heard, and to contribute to the vision of our County's future development. Your input is invaluable in guiding our decisions, and we are committed to listening and working collaboratively to ensure that Kneehill County continues to thrive. Please join us in Trochu on October 25 or in Acme on November 1. More information on these engagements can be found on page 14 of this newsletter. We hope to see you there! - Reeve

Jerry Wittstock

Three Hills East Water Survey Results

June 27: Council directed Administration to communicate with the landowners in the Three Hills East Water area that the water project will not proceed due to the lack of support. 80% buy-in was required from the community to continue exploring the possibility of a residential potable water system, but after consultation with area residents, only 34% were in favour of the project and willing to commit the funding necessary to proceed.

State of Agricultural Disaster

July 25: Council declared a State of Agricultural Disaster for the 2023 season, as continued drought conditions have impacted agricultural operations across Kneehill County. While this declaration doesn't automatically bring more funding from the province or federal government, it helps raise awareness about the difficulties farmers are facing and might lead to provincial declarations in the future.

Council Contacts

Division 3

Reeve Jerry Wittstock

Phone: 403-312-6196

Email: jerry.wittstock@kneehillcounty.com

Division 7

Deputy Reeve Ken King

Phone: 403-443-0285

Email: kenneth.king@kneehillcounty.com

Division 1

Councillor Faye McGhee

Phone: 403-436-1611

Email: faye.mcghee@kneehillcounty.com

Division 2

Councillor Debbie Penner

Phone: 403-818-3108

Email: debbie.penner@kneehillcounty.com

Delegation: Torrington Agricultural Society

August 22: The Torrington Agricultural Society operates and Torrington. At their request, Council increased Torrington Ag annual grant to $30,000/year effective 2023 (an increase of $10k) to help cover rising utility costs for the building and provided a time grant of $12,500 for a Zamboni rental for their 20232024 ice season, to be funded from Strategic Initiatives.

Bylaw 1891 Tax Arrears Payment Plan

September 26: Council passed Bylaw 1891, Tax Arrears Payment Plan. This bylaw allows residential ratepayers to pay off overdue taxes through monthly installments, with no additional penalties charged during the agreement term.

Coming up on Council’s agenda:

• Public Hearing re: Land Use Bylaw amendments Nov. 14/2023

• 2024 Budget Deliberations

• Torrington Electoral Boundaries

• Grader and Gravel Services Policy 13.2

Division 4

Councillor Carrie Fobes

Phone: 403-588-4624

Email: carrie.fobes@kneehillcounty.com

Division 5

Councillor Laura Lee Machell-Cunningham

Phone: 403-443-0752

Email: lauralee.machell-cunningham @kneehillcounty.com

Division 6

Councillor Wade Christie

Phone: 403-588-1992

Email: wade.christie@kneehillcounty.com

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Renewable Energy

Kneehill County Council is committed to ensuring that landowners have the necessary tools to make informed decisions when leasing their land for renewable energy developments. To achieve this goal, Administration crafted two factsheets for easy reference.

The first factsheet contains valuable information residents should be aware of when considering leasing land for renewable energy projects. It covers various aspects of the leasing process, potential benefits, and important considerations. The second factsheet is tailored to landowners located adjacent to renewable energy projects. It provides specific insights into how these developments might impact your property and surroundings.

Both of these factsheets are readily accessible on Kneehill County’s website, or can be picked up at the Admin Building.

Darcy Allen’s presentation, which delves into key aspects of renewable energy leasing, is also available on our website for your reference. kneehillcounty.com/2485/Renewable-EnergyDevelopments.

Council is actively working on amendments to the Land Use Bylaw, with a focus on enhancing the protection of high classification agricultural land. Council believes safeguarding these vital resources is essential for our community's future.

The draft of the updated Bylaw will be open for public review and comment prior to a public hearing regarding these changes.

Watch for these updates coming soon.

The Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) is the approving authority for renewable energy projects in Alberta. As per the Municipal Government Act, the municipality is required to approve any projects that have been approved by the AUC.

On August 3, 2023, the government enacted the Generation Approvals Pause Regulation through an order-in-Council. This regulation temporarily prohibits the AUC from issuing project approvals related to renewable energy until March 1, 2024. During this pause, the AUC will conduct an inquiry into policies and procedures related to renewable electricity generation.

This inquiry aims to inform government policy decisions regarding the orderly and efficient development of electricity generation in Alberta. It will address critical issues such as:

• Development of power plants on specific types or classes of agricultural or environmental land.

• The impact of power plant development on Alberta's scenic landscapes.

• Mandatory reclamation security requirements for power plants.

• Development of power plants on Crown lands.

• The impact of the growing renewables sector on Alberta's energy mix and electricity system reliability.

The outcomes of this inquiry may have far-reaching implications for both AUC policies and the proposed changes to the Land Use Bylaw.

Kneehill County hosted a renewable energy information session with presenters Darcy Allen from the Farmers’ Advocacy Office, and Daryl Bennet from Action Surface Rights.

Operations Update

The Operations Department has been hard at work over the summer, ensuring smooth operations and timely completion of various projects.

Graders North & South:

• Both the North and South divisions have been actively engaged in their summer rotations, diligently managing the influx of harvest traffic. Despite the increased workload, crews are making sure the roads are safe and efficient for all travelers.

Gravel Crew:

• The Gravel Crew is on the move as they head to the Redland stockpile site. This relocation is part of ongoing efforts to optimize our operations and ensure we have the right resources in the right place at the right time.

Project Crew:

The Project Crew has been busy with several essential tasks:

• Putting the finishing touches on BF 6948.

• Replacing culverts to maintain road infrastructure.

• Hauling in sand for winter preparations, ensuring roads remain accessible during the colder months.

Shop/Fleet:

Our Shop/Fleet team has been working tirelessly to keep equipment in top-notch condition. Here's a summary of their recent activities:

• Conducting maintenance, inspections, and performing grease/oil samples for graders, tractors, trucks, trailers, and other equipment.

• We're excited to announce the addition of the 2022 160M3 Cat Grader to our fleet, enhancing our capabilities.

• Addressed issues with our Volvo 140 excavator by replacing the ECU and the main display.

• This month, three Commercial Vehicle Inspection Program (CVIP) checks were completed on our trailers.

• Quick action was taken to replace a blown radiator on one of our gravel trucks, ensuring minimal downtime.

Gorr Road Overlay

Recently construction was completed on the asphalt overlay of Range Road 251 (Gorr Road) from Highway 27 to Highway 583. This project increased the overall width of the road surface to 9.0 metres, from under 8.0 metres, providing improved strength and longevity to the road. This project was completed ahead of schedule and within budget.

Airport and PBI Road Sealcoat

Sealcoating installations will occur on both the Airport Road (RR234) as well as PBI Road (RR 240) in the last week of September. This installation of graded aggregate and oil will provide a wearable surface to the road as well as prevent moisture from penetrating the surface and creating damage.

Swalwell Culvert Replacement

Kneehill County crews completed the replacement of a major bridge size culvert southwest of Swalwell this summer (BF6948). This project required the excavation of 1000 cubic metres of material and coordination with Alberta Environment and other local stakeholders to complete. (Pictured below.)

BF6948 was funded through the STIP (Strategic Transportation Infrastructure Program) grant.

Got Gravel?

Kneehill County is on a quest to unearth and secure a long-term gravel resource, and we need your help!

If you think your property is sitting on a rockin’ gravel stash, don't keep it buried. Reach out to the County for a gravel assessment of your land we’ll leave no stone unturned!

Don’t take this opportunity for granite, call today: 403-443-5541.

Notify Me!

Kneehill County has implemented a FREE digital notification system for our water customers, called NOTIFY ME.

Through NOTIFY ME, Kneehill County can immediately advise customers of any direct or potential impacts to their water service through text message or email. The notification will include links to Kneehill County’s website for more information and/or instructions.

Customers must subscribe to NOTIFY ME to begin receiving notifications. Sign-up is quick and easy. Go to the Notify Me web page on Kneehill County’s website, or scan the QR code to get started.

Winter Water Meter Care

Protect Your Water Meter

As the winter chill approaches, Kneehill County's Utility Department wants to remind all water system users about the importance of safeguarding their water meter equipment.

User Responsibility

The responsibility for the care and protection of water meters rests with the users. In the unfortunate event of a water meter freezing, the associated replacement cost will be borne by the customer.

Prevent Freezing

Take proactive measures to ensure your water meter is shielded from freezing temperatures. Here are some tips:

• Make sure your water meter is installed in a frost-free location.

• Check that any protective measures in place, such as heat tape, insulation tape, or other insulation methods, are in good working condition.

• Ensure that these protective measures are connected to a safe and reliable power source to maintain their effectiveness.

For more winter water tips and information, please call Kneehill County 403-443-5541.

Kneehill County hosted Ratepayer Evenings in Swalwell and Wimborne in June of 2023.

The annual events were structured like trade fairs, with booths for each of Kneehill County’s departments and knowledgeable staff on hand, sharing information about current projects and services, and answering questions.

Council was also in attendance to meet and greet residents and discuss any concerns they may have.

Ratepayer Evenings Scholarship Winners

“Any event where Council can meet with our ratepayers, answer their questions and receive valuable feedback is a success in my books.

- Reeve, Jerry Wittstock. Attendees enjoyed beef on a bun, took home exclusive Kneehill County swag, and entered into draws for summer

These events will be back in 2024. If you live or own land in Kneehill County, you are invited! Stay tuned to Kneehill County and social media in the spring for dates, locations, and more!

Kneehill County Council is thrilled to announce the recipients of this year's scholarships, Kylie Robertson and Anna Dau.

Our annual scholarship program assesses applicants based on three criteria: a written essay, letters of reference, and contributions to school or community, including leadership activities and personal achievements. Winners are granted $2000 each for their pursuit of higher education.

This year’s essay question was: “What specific challenges do you feel that Kneehill County faces and how would you deal with them?”

Kylie Robertson's essay demonstrated a keen understanding of the challenges the County encounters, offering thoughtful solutions. Her leadership roles in her school and community showcased her commitment to making a positive impact.

Anna Dau's essay also impressed Council, highlighting her innovative ideas to address community challenges. Her dedication and contributions to various community projects further emphasized her passion for creating positive change.

“Congratulations, Anna Dau and Kylie Robertson, on your well

Kneehill Regional FCSS COMING EVENTS

Business Builders (Grades 6 – 9)

Tuesdays, October 10 – December 5, 3:45 – 5:00 PM (Linden)

Build a business from the ground up. Have fun, learn skills, and make some money.

Youth Skill Zone Series (Ages 14 – 25)

Basic Auto Maintenance Skills

October 23, 6:00 – 8:00 PM (Youth 18 – 25) (Three Hills)

October 27, 2:00 – 4:00 PM (Youth 14 – 18) (Three Hills)

Learn basic vehicle maintenance skills from local mechanics for free.

STEM Fridays (Grades 1 – 4)

October 27, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Acme) (Linden, Trochu and Carbon TBA)

Have fun building things, doing science experiments, and playing games.

Rainbows Fall Series (Grades 3 - 6) October - December (Three Hills)

Age specific support groups for children who are experiencing grief or loss.

Fountain of Health

October 3, 17 & 31 2:00 – 4:00 PM (Torrington)

A positive outlook on aging, combined with a healthy lifestyle can help you reduce the risk and optimize the management of chronic conditions of depression/anxiety, diabetes, cancer, heart disease, etc.

Little Adventurers (Ages 0 - 6) With Family Resource Network

Tuesdays, October 3 – November 14, 1:30 – 2:30 PM (Three Hills)

Join us for some fun with friends and enjoy new activities every week.

Minds in Motion

A weekly senior’s fitness and social program with gentle exercises and activities.

Mondays, September 18 – November 13 (Trochu)

Contact RANDI at 403-391-6639 or randihogg@gmail.com OR MARY at 403-442-3959 or moshea@persona.ca

Thursdays, October 5 – November 9 (Linden)

Contact KIM at 403-321-4727 or kim.larsen@bigcountrypcn.com

Trochu Flapjack Fiesta and Community Showcase

October 18, 5:00 – 6:30 PM (Trochu)

An opportunity for residents to learn more about resources and supports.

Just In Case Workshop

October 20, 1:30 – 3:30 PM (Three Hills)

In a moment of distress finding important documents can be difficult. Come create a folder for key information in your life “just in case” of an emergency, so you or your loved ones can find important information quickly.

For more information or to register for any of these events call 403-443-3800 or angie@krfcss.com

Growing Kneehill

On August 19, 2023, Kneehill County hosted our annual Growing Kneehill events, starting with the Country market, which featured 22 local vendors and saw over 1200 visitors. Following the market was the Long Table Dinner, where 94 guests were treated to a delectable menu of fresh ingredients provided by 13 of our local producers.

Thank you to our sponsors, vendors, and local producers for your continued support!

SPONSORS

• Trochu Motors

• Canalta

• Community Futures Wild Rose

• McElhanney

• Creekside Products Ltd.

Country Market Vendors:

• 6West Coffee– Coffee Roasters

• Aspen Mosaic- Artisan Bread, Baking & spices

• Audio Orchard Bakery- Local Baked Desserts

• BERTABURRITOS- Tex Mex Food Truck

• Busy Bee Bake Shoppe- Baking and Honey products

• Diggers Diner- Food Truck

• DNA Gardens- Fruit Wine, pies, and berry products

• High Seas Coffee- Coffee & baking

• Liv Life Livery Farm – Local food and natural products

• Nature’s Essential Garden– Plant-based bath & body

• Prairie Bloem Creations – Painted Wood Flowers

• Rambling Through Roses- Artisan craft products

• Ranaman Ranch- Beef, Lubricants, Artisan products

• Red Deer River Watershed Alliance- Watershed advocacy

Cultivating Growth

• Rocky Roadz- Gourmet Mini donuts & ice cream Food Truck

• Siplicious- Locally blended tea products

• Solterra d’Italia & Sunterra Meats- Dry-Cured & Fresh Meats

• Travel Drumheller- Local tourism

• The Little Market Farm- Local Greenhouse Produce

• We B Jamming- Canned Jams, Jellies, Sauces & Salsa

• Yard Art by Ron- Artisan Metal Products

Long Table Dinner Suppliers:

• Aspen Mosaic

• Bauer Meats

• Craft Beef Co.

• DNA Gardens

• Golden Acres Honey

• High Seas Coffee

• Lone Pine Creamery

• Prairie Bloem Creations

• Siplicious

• The Little Market Farm

• Three Hills Hutterite Colony

• Valley Brewing

• Whispering Wind Farms

Kneehill County Reeve Wittstock joined MP Martin Shields, MP Ron Liepert, MLA Nathan Cooper, MLA Grant Hunter, and MP Earl Dreeshen (not pictured) for a tour of Solterra and Sunterra Greenhouses in July, showing support for our agriculture industry.

Dinner guests enjoyed a multiple course meal while overlooking the stunning vistas of Horseshoe Canyon.

The Country Market featured local vendors, live music, food trucks, and plenty of family activities!

Municipal Development Plan: Working Suppers

What is an MDP?

A Municipal Development Plan (MDP) is like a big-picture plan for how a municipality wants to grow and change over time. It helps ensure the community is organized and growing in a way that benefits everyone who lives there. It's kind of like making a "todo" list for all the things that need to be done to make the community a better place!

It's crucial for the public to have a say in the MDP. By providing input into the plan, residents can ensure that their unique needs and values are taken into account. For example, if a community relies heavily on agriculture, residents can advocate for policies that support local farmers and promote sustainable land use practices. If a community values access to nature and outdoor recreation, residents can push for more parks and green spaces. With the unique challenges facing rural communities, it's more important than ever to involve the public in the planning process.

New Road Rules

EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 1, 2023

• Drivers travelling in the adjacent lane are required to SLOW DOWN to 60 km/h for all emergency responders or roadside workers, including stopped maintenance vehicles & snowplows with their flashing lights activated.

• Drivers are also required to safely move over to an alternate lane (if possible) to provide workers with extra space.

• Thank you for sharing the road responsibly and keeping our emergency responders and roadside workers safe!

RAIL SAFETY WEEK: September 18-24

Every year, more than 2,100 North Americans are killed or seriously injured in railway crossing and trespassing incidents. Almost all of these incidents are preventable –but that starts with knowing how to act safely around tracks and trains.

STAY OFF THE TRACKS

Never walk, cycle or drive along Railway tracks. It’s hard to tell how far away a train is, or how fast it’s going. Train’s can go as fast as 160 km/hr and can take up to 2 km to come to a full stop. (That’s 18 football fields!)

FOLLOW SIGNS & SIGNALS

Railway signs, lights, bells, and gates are there to keep you safe. Before crossing, look both ways and listen for trains. If one is coming, or if you see any railway warning signals, then STOP behind hand gates or stop lines at least 5 metres away and wait for the train to pass. Only cross when the signals have stopped and you’re sure no other trains are coming.

Learn more about rail safety, at OperationLifesaver.ca