Neighbourhood Notes, October 2018

Neighbourhood Notes October 2018 In this Issue • • • • •

Fire Prevention Week P3 Stampede Farm Family P4 2018 Taxes P5 Cannabis Legislation P7 Planning 101 P8

Growing Kneehill Country Market and Long Table Dinner a great success!

On August 18th the Kneehill County Agricultural Service Board hosted another successful Long Table Dinner and first ever Country Market at Horseshoe Canyon. In collaboration with Alberta Open Farms days, and ending the newly declared Alberta Local Food week, the event showcased some of the very best in local food, artisans and tourism operators, sponsored by Canalta Hotels and Solterra d’Italia.

10 vendors participated in the first annual Country Market, promoting items like locally roasted coffee from High Seas Coffee, cured meats from Solterra d’Italia, artisan bread from Home-Style Pies, tourism operators Pursuit Adventures and Prairie Steam Tours, and artisans like Jungling Works and the Sage Shop. An estimated 1500 plus visitors passed through the site during the event.

The Long Table Dinner was extremely successful. 86 people took part in the family-style meal, situated overlooking the breathtaking views of the canyon. Partnering with Food Tourism Strategies and Red Seal Chefs Pierre Lamielle and Andrea Harling, the meal was created using ingredients almost all entirely sourced from within Kneehill County. Highlighting these local ingredients throughout the dinner, Chefs Pierre and Andrea shared the inspiration for every dish and told the story of farm to fork for each course that was served.

With the success of these events and the positive feedback we’ve received from our vendors, Kneehill County is planning another Long Table Dinner and Country Market for 2019. If you are interested in promoting your business by participating in next year’s event, please contact us at asb@kneehillcounty.com or 403-443-5541.

Thank you to our sponsors and the following producers and vendors for making our event a success!

Event Sponsors • Canalta Hotels www.canaltahotels.com • Soleterra d'Italia Ltd. www.soleterra.ca • Food Tourism Strategies www.foodtourismstrategies.com Long Table Featured Local Producers • Dancing Goats Farm dancinggoatsfarm.com/home.html • Soleterra d’Italia Ltd. www.soleterra.ca • Three Hills Hutterite Colony • Mousse Cake Sally www.moussecakesally.ca • Bauer Meats www.bauermeats.com • High Seas Coffee www.highseascoffee.co • Prairie Brewing Company www.prairiebrewco.com • Fallentimber Meadery www.fallentimbermeadery.ca • Golden Acres Honey www.goldenacreshoney.com • Pearson’s Berry Farm www.pearsonsberryfarm.ca Country Market Vendors • Soleterra d’Italia Ltd. www.soleterra.ca • High Seas Coffee www.highseascoffee.co • Homestyle Pies www.facebook.com/Homestyle-Pies-100879943313057 • Alberta Prairie Steam Tour www.absteamtrain.com • Jungling Works www.junglingworks.com • Canadian Badlands Tourism www.canadianbadlands.com • Red Deer River Adventures www.reddeerriveradventures.com • Sage Valley Marketing www.naturesessentialgarden.com • Pursuit Adventures www.pursuitadventures.ca

REEVE’S MESSAGE In true Albertan fashion, we seem to have gone from summer to winter in the blink of an eye. The snow was hesitant to leave in the spring and has made an early entrance this fall.

Hopefully the weather improves and gives us some sunshine, so our hardworking farmers can finish with harvest. A fourmonth growing season makes it tough on those who earn their living off the land.

We’ve had a busy summer this season.

Our Ag Services staff hosted our Long Table Dinner and first-ever Country Market. It was

a great success, and I can’t wait to see what they dish up next year.

Our Operations crews continue to work hard, fixing the

Council Contacts

damage to our roads system caused by the spring flooding. The Utility crews are busy fixing and installing new water and sewer services around the County. In Protective Services, the provincial award winning CIA (Citizens In Action) program for school-aged children kicked off this fall.

Look for more details about this program on our website!

The Planning Department has seen 64

new developments, 20 subdivisions, redesignations and 173 Safety Codes Permits in 2018, and are well on track to match 2017’s approvals. Our administration staff are hard at work as well, keeping our systems running smoothly, prepping for 2019 Budget.

A friendly reminder that taxes are due at the end of the month, on October 31.

Council continues to work through their strategic action pri-

COUNCIL CONTACTS

Division 3 Reeve Jerry Wittstock Phone: 403-312-6196 Email: jerry.wittstock@kneehillcounty.com

Division 4 Councillor Glen Keiver Phone: 403-443-7738 Email: glen.keiver@kneehillcounty.com

Division 7 Deputy Reeve Ken King Phone: 403-443-0285 Email: kenneth.king@kneehillcounty.com

Division 5 Councillor Jim Hugo Phone: 403-443-7317 Email: jim.hugo@kneehillcounty.com

Division 1 Councillor Faye McGhee Phone: 403-436-1611 Email: faye.mcghee@kneehillcounty.com

Division 6 Councillor Wade Christie Phone: 403-588-1992 Email: wade.christie@kneehillcounty.com

Division 2 Councillor Debbie Penner Phone: 403-818-3108 Email: debbie.penner@kneehillcounty.com

orities, attached to our Council Agendas.

Our Council Meeting Agendas are available on our website and have a great deal of information. We are one year into our term and continue to work strongly together for the betterment of our County.

On behalf of Council, we wish you a happy Thanksgiving spent with family and friends.

- Jerry Wittstock, Reeve

Join us!

Upcoming Council Meetings: October 9 October 23 (Organizational Meeting)  November 13  November 27  December 11  

Connect With Us! Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram: @kneehillcounty, and tune in to our YouTube channel to watch Council meetings live!

Kneehill Area Solid Waste Transfer Station Facilities *Summer hours in effect from October 1, 2018—April 30, 2019.

2 Unacceptable materials will be refused!

STRATEGIC PLANNING

2018 Accomplishments to Date *Council Action Items lists are available at the end of every Council Meeting Agenda Package.

Water System: Action: Make decision on Churchill Water Line in 2018 and possibly start building in 2019.

On April 24, 2018 Council made the decision on the Churchill Water Line. Council approved a rehabilitation of the system using existing infrastructure with pipeline upgrades in certain problem areas, a reservoir, pump-

NOW 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

NEXT • • • • •

house and truck fill to be constructed. The estimated cost for this project will be $4,634,048.00 with funds to come from the Water Service Area Reserve.

Council continues to work towards a long term tax strategy to ensure financial stability of Kneehill County.

Tax Strategy:

Action: Council will go through list of services and programs and perform a User Fee Review.

Action: Administration to provide Council with tax rate scenarios when bringing the 2018 Budget back for approval.

User Fee Review:

Council reviewed user fees at the April 17, 2018 and

the September 18, 2018 Committee of the Whole meetings to reflect initiatives in the 2019 Budget, and continue to review the Master Rates Bylaw.

Crime Prevention: Action: Increase Peace Officer’s presence by increasing program by two officers by 2019. These officers will also perform

some public education on crime.

On February 27, 2018 Council made the decision to hire one Level 2 Community Peace Officer for the Kneehill County Rural Crime Deterrent Initiative and to defer the discussion on the 2nd Community Peace Officer until the 2019 Budget deliberations.

STRATEGIC PRIORITIES CHART CORPORATE PRIORITIES (Council/CAO)

Fire: Action: Create a Rural Fire Chief position.

On February 27, 2018 Council made the decision to hire a Rural Fire Chief and fund the position.

June 26, 2018

TIMELINE June April

INTER-MUN. COLLABORATION FRAMEWORKS ECONOMIC DEVLOPMENT STRATEGY INTER-MUNICIPAL DEVELOPMENT PLANS (IDP) HAMLET STRATEGY LONG TERM FINANCIAL PLAN MDP/LUB: Review INDUSTRIAL AREA: Zoning THREE HILLS EAST WATER: Options INFRASTRUCTURE FINANCING STRATEGY HUMAN RESOURCE POLICY

We now have one Level 2 Community Peace Officer and two Level 1 Community Peace Officers.

LATER • • •

RURAL FIRE SERVICE STRATEGY COMMUNITY STANDARDS BYLAW: Update YOUTH SPONSORSHIP: Policy Review

ADVOCACY • • • •

Three Hills Water GFL: Aerator Evaluation Trochu Senior Housing Doctor Recruitment & Retention: Support

OPERATIONAL STRATEGIES (CAO/STAFF)

CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER

1.

2.

• •

ICF Program: Approach – Mar. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY: ToR – Apr. YOUTH SPONSORSHIP: Policy Review Regional Partnership Forum

PROTECTIVE SERVICES

CORPORATE

1. LONG TERM FINANCIAL PLAN 2. ASSET MANAGEMENT PLAN

PLANNING

1. COMMUNITY STANDARDS BYLAW: Update

2. OH & S: Legislative Compliance - May • RURAL FIRE SERVICE STRATEGY

1. IDP: Completion – May 2. MDP/LUB: Review - June 3. INDUSTRIAL AREA: Zoning – June • HAMLET STRATEGY

TRANSPORTATION & ENVIRONMENT

AGRICULTURE & PARKS

1. CHURCHILL WATER LINE: Council Direction – Feb. 2. HAMLET STRATEGY – Sept.

3. SOLID WASTE STRATEGY – Sept.

• THREE HILLS EAST WATER: Options

1. HORSESHOE CANYON ENHANCEMENTS – Aug.

CODES: BOLD CAPITALS = NOW Priorities; CAPITALS = NEXT Priorities; Italics = Advocacy; Regular Title Case = Operational Strategies

Visit us @KneehillCounty

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STAMPEDE FARM FAMILY When Kevin Hoppins talks about the family farm, the emphasis is decidedly on family.

He’s part of the eight families that make up Hoppins Farms Ltd., an operation that’s grown to a sprawling 8,000 acres from the original quarter section homesteaded west of Huxley by his great-grandfather William Hoppins in 1904.

“You’ll never hear anyone who is or has been involved in our farm refer to anything as ‘mine.’ It’s all considered ‘ours,’” Hoppins says. “It’s through the co-operative approach — the sharing of resources, skills and expertise — that we’ve been able to successfully grow our operation.”

The mixed grain farm run by the families — fathers, sons, uncles, cousins and their partners — produces wheat, barley, peas and

canola. The families also maintain a herd of 160 commercial Angus/ Simmental beef cattle.

When Hoppins learned he was the recipient of the 2018 BMO Farm Family for Kneehill County, he wanted to make one thing clear.

“I told them, ‘That’s not how it works.’ It’s definitely not any one of our farms. It is a family thing and we are all in it together,” he recalls.

“At times, we may have eight ideas on how to approach something, but that usually means we have a better out-

come and it’s done sooner.”

That all-for-one, onefor-all outlook has been passed down through the generations, as has involvement in cooperatives. “It’s an extension of the farm. You join together with other folks to do something together that you can’t do yourself, like bringing natural gas to rural areas,” he says.

Hoppins’ grandfather was CEO of the United Farmers of Alberta (UFA), his father was a director and he is currently chairman of the

board. Members of the family are involved in everything from Kneehill County Council and the Huxley 4-H Beef Club, toSt. Mary’s Community Health Care Foundation and the Trochu Curling Club.

It’s not uncommon for one member of the family to take over a task for another, allowing them to coach a ball game, respond to a fire call or organize a community event.

In 2004, the Hoppins clan hosted a centennial farm celebration with friends, extended

family and community.

At the same time, they were honoured with the Alberta Century Farm Award and a Centennial Farm Award from Kneehill County. The families are used to gatherings, another tradition that’s echoed through the generations.

“We have a corn roast every year and we have three antique 1950 combines that we break out. We save a bit of the crop and have all the neighbours and friends over,” Hoppins says. “And in the winter,

a lot of the non-farming family members come for the skating parties we have on the pond.”

Another family tradition involves attending Olds College. There’s even a photo of the Hoppins Farms Ltd. brand at the College.

Various family members specialize in cattle, bookkeeping, pesticide application, mechanics and grain marketing, among other areas.

Keeping abreast — and ahead, at times — of advances in agriculture is a priority for the family, as is planning for the operation’s future.

“Encouraging others and taking time to share in the process has fostered a love of farming and community,” Hoppins says. “We have three third-generation families, five fourthgeneration families and the fifth generation is just around the corner helping out on weekends and evenings.”

SCHOLARSHIPS

Congratulations to Kneehill County’s 2018 scholarship recipients!

Kneehill County Council recognizes the importance of an educated population to the future well-being of rural communities, committing $4000.00 per year for a scholarship program in support of rural students attending a university, college or trade school.

To qualify, applicants must submit a written essay and two letters of reference as part of the process.

Olivia Haller was awarded $2000.00 for her outstanding

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Academic Achievement. She has been accepted into a six-month program at Bodensechof, a Torchbearer ‘Capernwray” Bible School in Germany. Of the opportunity, Olivia writes in her essay: “I applied to Bodenseehof be-

cause I haven’t found a career path that interests me, however, I wanted to continue to learn and gain experience. I think this opportunity is so special because it allows me to not only learn, but to get away from home and truly gain life experience, in-

dependence and maturity, and also have the chance to explore a new culture. While Bodenseehof won’t exactly train me for a specific job, it will give me the tools for better relationships and life skills to bring back to our community that I can use in any job I pursue.”

Emmet Sawyer was awarded $2000.00 for his exemplary Community and Leadership activities. Attending the Agricultural Studies program at Leth-

bridge University this fall, Emmet writes in his essay: “After completing my Bachelor of Arts degree in Agricultural Studies, I plan to work in one of the many agriculture-related industries, possibly near the rural community where I grew up, or wherever opportunity takes me. My goal for later in my career is to become a Member of Parliament. I would then be in a position to help change and create policies

that could better the lives of farmers and help rural communities prosper. I hope to bring the voices of my community to the federal level.”

Kneehill County Council is proud to recognize the many talented, communityoriented local students within our borders. Thank you to all our 2018 applicants!

For more information on the Scholarship Program, please visit our website, www.kneehillcounty. com.

TAX SALE

Notice is hereby given that, under the provisions of the Municipal Government Act, Kneehill County will offer for sale, by public auction, in the Kneehill County Office, 1600-2 Street NE, Three Hills, Alberta, on Thursday, October 11, 2018, at 2:00 p.m., the following lands:

2018 TAXES

Each parcel will be offered for sale, subject to a reserve bid and to the reservations and conditions contained in the existing certificate of title.

Additional terms and conditions of sale will be announced at the sale, or may be obtained from the undersigned.

The land is being offered for sale on an “as is, where is” basis, and the County makes no representation and gives no warranty whatsoever as to the adequacy of services, soil conditions, land use districting, building and development conditions, absence or presence of environmental contamination, vacant possession, or the developability of the subject land for any intended use by the Purchaser. No bid will be accepted where the bidder attempts to attach conditions precedent to the sale of any parcel. No terms and conditions of sale will be considered other than those specified by the County.

Land Description

C of T

Plan 8010154, Block 2

091 074 797

Plan 9710935, Area A

031 035 451

Plan 0814091, Block 1, Lot 1

081 376 493

Plan 6820GY, Block 8, Lots 6 & 7

161 007 637

NE 12-28-20-W4

761 126 675D

Plan 7015EF, Block 1, Lots 13 & 14

761 012 564

Plan 7610438, Block 2, Lot 9

111 084 139

Plan 0024861, Lot 1

122 271 031

Redemption may be effected by payment of all arrears of taxes and costs at any time prior to the sale.

Plan 7410042, Parcel B

071 531 649

Dated at Kneehill County, Alberta, August 1, 2018.

Plan 0010022, Block 1

121 176 062

Kneehill County may, after the public auction, become the owner of any parcel of land not sold at the public auction.

Terms: Cash or Certified Cheque. GST will apply on land sold at the public auction.

Mike Morton, Director of Corporate Services

Taxes Due October 31, 2018 Kneehill County taxes can be paid at the County office by cash, cheque or debit, by cheque through the mail, at your financial institution, online or by telephone banking.

(Choose “Kneehill County Taxes” as the payee online.

Roll number is the account number).

We do not accept credit cards for tax payments.

It is important to note the following: • Failure to receive or

loss of the Property Tax Notice cannot be accepted as a reason for non-payment or exemption of a late penalty.

Payments submitted by mail must be CLEARLY POSTMARKED on or before the due date. TAXES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE OCTOBER 31, 2018.

• When paying your Tax Bill through on-line banking, please allow adequate processing time before the due date as noted by your financial institution (typically 3-5 business days).

Kneehill County Office: 1600 2nd Street NE, Three Hills, AB Mail to: Box 400, Three Hills, AB, T0M 2A0.

Tax Information For Online Banking Payments

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



Join our TIPP Program!

For more information on your online banking system, contact your nancial institution.

PLEASE NOTE: All charges on a tax account are the responsibility of the registered owner of the property. When you purchase a property, adjustments for taxes are made

between the vendor and the purchaser and the taxes are expected to be paid in full by the current registered owner, by the due date, if outstanding.

Your taxes are due in full on or before October 31, 2018.

If they are not paid, there will be a 2% penalty added to all outstanding amounts on November 1st and on the 1st of each month going forward (Tax Penalty Bylaw #1680).

Tax rates are set by Council each year at the budget meeting. Council must approve a balanced budget and revenues are collected through taxes, user fees and grants.

The County provides a Tax Installment Payment Program which allows for monthly balanced payments to be withdrawn directly from your account on the last day of each month. This program runs from January – December each year. For more information, please contact the Tax Department at 403-443-5541, ext 203. *Assessment Appeal procedures and timeline are on the back of your Tax Notice.

It's Budget-friendly!

Divide your annual Property Tax Levy into 12 payments.

Contact Information

It's Automatic!

Always keep the County updated with your contact information. Please call 403-443-5541, or email office@kneehillcounty.com, with any changes to your phone number, email or mailing address.

Rural Addressing is an important aspect of your home property. These addresses are used by our utilities and operations staff for location. They are also used by First Responders in emergency situations. Always ensure your House or Blue Sign Number is clearly marked, in good repair, and visible from the road.

Payment is Direct Debited from your account on the last day of every month.

It's Easy!

Join any time!

Contact Kneehill County 403-443-5541

SNOW REMOVAL

It’s that time again! Per Transportation Policy 13-28, Kneehill County is offering private lane snow plowing to residents who sign up for the service. Here’s how it works: • A completed Snowplowing Agreement and payment must be received prior to Kneehill County plowing private driveways.

• Generally, plowing will only be

undertaken when snow accumulates to a minimum 10 cm.

• Plowing may not follow school bus routes.

• Sanding or ice blading will be done as required.

• Windrows are the responsibility of the landowner.

• If the weather is severe and operators are at risk, Kneehill County will halt plowing operations.

Visit us @KneehillCounty

• First Priorities: arterial roads, collector roads, hamlets, country residential subdivisions, reservoir sites, transfer sites.

• Second Priority: private driveways.

For more information, and to fill out an agreement, please visit our website, www.kneehillcounty. com, or phone the office, 403-4435541.

How does Rural Addressing work?

Addresses are based on where your driveway (approach) is located along the public road (Township/Range Road or Highway.)

320

This is the road perpendicular to the one that accesses your driveway (either the Township Road to the South, or the Range Road to the East.)

241

This is the number of the Range or Township Road that your property is accessed from.

020

This is the property access number, assigned based on the loca�on of your drive� way along the public road.

320020 Rge Rd 241 Remember: Keep your en�re address posted by the telephone for quick reference!

Did you know?

Kneehill County can

Plow your Private Lane!

Contact the office, 403-443-5541 for more information.

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AGRICULTURAL SERVICES

GRAZING MANAGEMENT > Riparian area fencing > Portable watering system

MANURE AND LIVESTOCK FACILITIES MANAGEMENT > Improved manure storage > Relocation of livestock facilities

AGRICULTURAL INPUT AND WASTE MANAGEMENT > Improved nutrient and pesticide management > Plastic rollers *These are just examples of projects that are available under the three categories.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: For program details go to: www.cap.alberta.ca/CAP/program/STEW_PROD Phone: Ag-Info Centre at 310-FARM (3276) Email: CAP.ESandCCProgram@gov.ab.ca Alberta Environmental Farm Plan: www.albertaefp.com

OCTOBER 16, 2018 9:30AM TO 4:00PM

REGISTER AT WWW.FOOTHILLSFORAGE.COM/UPCOMING EVENTS

Kristen Ritson-Bennett

Effectively collect samples, what you should test for and how to understand the results

Kristen Ritson-Bennett & Karin Schmid

How a nutrition checklist can save you time and money and make your winter feeding less stressful

Land Care Programs Protect Your Water by Decommissioning Abandoned Water Wells

Old, abandoned wells offer a direct route to groundwater for contaminates such as vermin, manure, pes�cides and fer�lizers. Keep your water sources safe by u�lizing Kneehill County Agriculture Services decommissioning program, for up to $300/well!

Riparian Restoration Program Graeme Finn

Cocktail Mixes can improve your grazing and soil health

Jerry Bearg & Jim Bauer (Field session weather dependent)

Bunch grazing, watering systems and fencing can improve pasture health and extend winter grazing

Riparian areas provide an ecological buffer for water flow, increase water reten�on and improve wildlife habitat. �y protec�ng and enhancing these areas we can lessen the impact of flooding and drought, and improve water quality. To assist with this Kneehill County Agriculture Services is offering free grass seed and 75% of other riparian improvement costs up to $2000.

All Land Care projects are subject to approval by Agriculture Services Staff.

www.kneehillcounty.com 1.866.443.5541

6

Did you know?

We offer assistance from a trained EFP Technician to complete your personalized Environmental Farm Plan.

To learn more or get started visit www.AlbertaEFP.com

HANNA October 22 Fox Lake Agro Services 305 South Municipal Rd 403-854-2820 OLDS October 22 Richardson Pioneer 1.5 km north of Olds Hwy 2A 403-556-6606 VAUXHALL October 22 South Country Co-op 205 1st Ave N 403-654-2137

THREE HILLS October 25 Kneehill Soil Services Ltd 204 1st Ave W 403-443-2355

403-545-2748

HIGH RIVER October 26 CORONATION UFA High River October 24 2006 10th Ave SE Nutrien Ag Solutions 403-652-2733 36130 Range Rd 110 403-578-3302 INNISFAILpesticides and TABER FOREMOST Farmers: safely dispose of unwanted or obsolete agricultural October 26locations on 25 Take them to the STIRLING October 23 livestock medications October – no charge! following Central Alberta Co-op UFA Taber October 24 W. Buis Holdings Ltd the dates noted between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

35435 Range Rd 282 5813 60 Ave Richardson Pioneer 199 1St Ave West 403-227-3466 403-223-8917 Hwy 61 403-867-2436 BROOKS MEDICINE HAT BOW ISLAND CARDSTON CLARESHOLM October 26 October 25 October 24 October 23 22 1 mileOctober east of Hwy 4 Nutrien Ag Solutions Parrish and Heimbecker UFA Medicine Hat Cardston County South Country Co-op 145074 Joanne 1467 30th St SW SPRINGS IRON Hwy 3 Admin. Bldg.

VULCAN 4123 3rd St E OYEN 403-756-3452 Trucking Rd 403-529-2424 1 mile west of Bow 1080 Main St 403-625-4088 October 26 October 25 October 23 403-362-2072 Island 403-634-9474 THREE HILLS HANNA ALBERTA 403-545-2748 Nutrien Ag HIGH Solutions Richardson Pioneer STRATHMORE Richardson Pioneer RIVER October 25 CROSSFIELD October 22 October 26 Kneehill Soil Services Fox Lake Agro Services October 23 Ave mile CORONATION west 24 of October 24Municipal Rd Nutrien Ag1/4 Township Rd 280 UFA High River Ltd 100 Railway October Solutions 305 South 2006 10th Ave SE 1st Ave W Nutrien Ag Solutions 21185 Hwy 574 403-854-2820 403-732-4585 junction Hwy 23 Rd&110 204 UFA Strathmore 1 mile East of Oyen 403-652-2733 403-443-2355 36130 Range 403-946-4588 OLDS 403-578-3302 Hwy 534 58 Slater Rd22 403-664-2620 INNISFAIL TABER FOREMOST October October 26 October 25 STIRLING October 23 Richardson Pioneer 403-485-6696 403-934-6684 Central Alberta Co-op UFA Taber October 24 W. Buis Holdings Ltd 1.5 km north of Olds CROSSFIELD October 23 Nutrien Ag Solutions 21185 Hwy 574 403-946-4588

Got unwanted pesticides or livestock medications?

AGRICULTURAL SERVICES

OBSOLETE COLLECTION CAMPAIGN 2018

Got unwanted pesticides or Cleanfarms livestock medications?

(Next collection in these areas in 2021.)

Farmers: safely dispose of unwanted or obsolete agricultural pesticides and livestock medications – no charge! Take them to the following locations on the dates noted between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Hwy 2A 403-556-6606

199 1St Ave West 403-867-2436

VAUXHALL October 22 South Country Co-op 205 1st Ave N 403-654-2137

OYEN October 23 Richardson Pioneer Township Rd 280 1 mile East of Oyen 403-664-2620

Richardson Pioneer Hwy 61 1 mile east of Hwy 4 403-756-3452

STRATHMORE PARTNERS October 24 UFA Strathmore 58 Slater Rd 403-934-6684

5813 60 Ave 403-223-8917

35435 Range Rd 282 403-227-3466

VULCAN October 25 Richardson Pioneer 1/4 mile west of junction Hwy 23 & Hwy 534 403-485-6696

IRON SPRINGS October 26 Nutrien Ag Solutions 100 Railway Ave 403-732-4585

PARTNERS

(Next Cleanfarms collection in these areas in 2021.)

Council Contacts

For more information: 1-877-622-4460 cleanfarms.ca For more information: 1-877-622-4460 cleanfarms.ca CLARESHOLM October 22 South Country Co-op 4123 3rd St E 403-625-4088

HANNA October 22 Fox Lake Agro Services 305 South Municipal Rd 403-854-2820

CARDSTON October 23 Cardston County Admin. Bldg.

1080 Main St 403-634-9474

BOW ISLAND October 24 Parrish and Heimbecker Hwy 3 1 mile west of Bow Island 403-545-2748

MEDICINE HAT October 25 UFA Medicine Hat 1467 30th St SW 403-529-2424

STIRLING October 24 Richardson Pioneer Hwy 61 1 mile east of Hwy 4 403-756-3452

October 25 UFA Taber 5813 60 Ave 403-223-8917

BROOKS October 26 Nutrien Ag Solutions 145074 Joanne Trucking Rd 403-362-2072

Division 3 THREE HILLS HIGH RIVER October 25 October 26 Kneehill Soil Services CORONATION Reeve Jerry Wittstock UFA High River Ltd October 24 2006 10th Ave SE 204 1st Ave W Nutrien Ag Solutions Phone: 403-312-6196 403-652-2733 403-443-2355 36130 Range Rd 110 403-578-3302 Email: jerry.wittstock@kneehillcounty.com INNISFAIL TABER FOREMOST CROSSFIELD October 23 Nutrien Ag Solutions 21185 Hwy 574 403-946-4588

UTILITY PAYMENTS OLDS October 22 Richardson Pioneer 1.5 km north of Olds Hwy 2A 403-556-6606

October 23 W. Buis Holdings Ltd 199 1St Ave West 403-867-2436

October 26 Central Alberta Co-op 35435 Range Rd 282 403-227-3466

Division 4 Councillor Glen Keiver Phone: 403-443-7738 Email: glen.keiver@kneehillcounty.com

Join us!

Upcoming Council Meetings:

 payment October The County offers OYEN several 400, Three Hills, AB, T0M option. Please emailVULCAN caroline. gust 31st, the would9 Kneehill County AdminPlease be sure to note which IRON SPRINGS VAUXHALL Division 7 Division 5 October 26 October 25 October 23 October 22  October options to our customers thatPioneer siverson@kneehillcounty.com 2A0 be withdrawn on September23 Water Service Area you reside istration Building anytime Nutrien Ag Solutions Richardson Pioneer STRATHMORE Richardson South Country Co-op Deputy Reeve Ken King Councillor Jim Hugo 100 Railway Ave 1/4 mile west of October 24 Rd 280 205 1st Ave N are hooked up to our Township The pre-authorized debit up.

15th. If you are(Organizational going away during business hours403-443-7317 in, so you can stay updated on 403-732-4585 junction Hwy 23 & UFA this Strathmore 1potable mile East of Oyen to set 403-654-2137 Phone: 403-443-0285 Phone: Hwy 534 58 Slater Rd 403-664-2620 403-485-6696 403-934-6684 water services. You may reoption is the ability to have the In addition, you may pay for the winter, this is an excel(Monday – Friday, 8:30am any news or events affecting Meeting) Email: kenneth.king@kneehillcounty.com Email: jim.hugo@kneehillcounty.com ceive your bi-monthly billing County take your bi-monthly your utility bills in different lent option  for you!

There are 13your water/sewer services.

– 4:30 pm) November PARTNERS by mail or email. The email billing amount directly from ways – credit card, debit, no fees attached to any of the 27If you notice any issues with • To pay with credit card over  November Division 1 Division 6 your bank account, on the option(Next is aCleanfarms more efficient way cash, cheque or pre-authopayment methods. the phone, call 403-443collection in these areas in 2021.)  December 11your water service, please Councillor Wade Christie to receive your bills, andCouncillor with 15th of the month, following rizedFaye debit: McGhee Over the last few months 5541 feel free to contact the office Phone: 403-436-1611 Phone: 403-588-1992 a pending postal strike, you the end of your billing.

For ex• For cash, credit or debit we have added new infor• Mail your cheque payment at 403-443-5541 to advise us For more information: 1-877-622-4460 cleanfarms.ca Email: may want to sign up forEmail: this faye.mcghee@kneehillcounty.com ample, if the billing ends Aupayments: Please visit the mation on your Utility Bills. to Kneehill County, Boxwade.christie@kneehillcounty.com of any concerns.

Connect With Us! Division 2 Area (WSA) Notifications Water Service Paying Your Utility Bill Councillor Debbie Penner Kneehill County accepts cash, cheque, debit, Visa or Mastercard payments, which can be and mailed or brought to the If an event occurs that may cause an issue with a Kneehill County water system, a notification will be posted on Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram: @kneehillcounty, Office, (#1600, 2nd Street NE, Three Hills, AB) during regular business hours, Monday to Friday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm.

Kneehill County’s website, (www.kneehillcounty.com), Facebook and Twitter account (@kneehillcounty).

Phone: 403-818-3108 Online Banking: Remove thelive! decimal when adding your account number, You can also paychannel your utility billto at most financial The notification will indicate the Water Service Area affected and a description of the event. tune in to our YouTube watch Council meetings Email: found at the top right of your utility bill. institutions, or through online banking.

Not sure which Water Service Area debbie.penner@kneehillcounty.com you belong to? You can find the information on your utility bill, as shown: 



Never miss another payment! Sign up for pre-authorized payments direct-debited from your bank account, following your regular billing cycle.

For more information on utility payments, contact the Utility Department, 403-443-5541, or visit our website, www.kneehillcounty.com.

For more online banking information, contact your nancial institution.

Kneehill Area SolidSOLID Waste Transfer StationTRANSFER Facilities KNEEHILL AREA WASTE STATION FACILITIES *Summer in effect from October1, 1, 2018 2018—April 30,30, 2019. *Winter hourshours in effect from October - April 2019.

Unacceptable materials will be refused!

Visit us @KneehillCounty

7

PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT

Planning 101: From Dream to Development

Dreaming up a new development in Kneehill County?

The Planning Department is here to help. Read on to find out how to get started, what the planning process entails, and each step along the way.

STEP 1: Meet with the Planners The first step in the planning process is to meet with our Planning and Development staff. Call the Kneehill County office, 403-443-5541 to schedule an appointment. Our business hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

What should I bring to my appointment?

Information! Maps, drawings, blueprints of the proposed development… the more information you bring, the better.

STEP 2: Redesignate Depending on the type of your development, it may be necessary to redesignate the land it will be built on for that type of use. The Planning Department will let you know if this is required.

Planning & Development: Definitions Development Authority: An Authority established according to the Municipal Government Act, to exercise development powers and du�ties on behalf of the County.

Municipal Planning Commission (MPC): A commission appointed by Council, acti�ng as the Development Authority for the County.

Development Permit – A document authorizing development, issued under the Land Use Bylaw.

Redesignation – The process of rezoning the current land district to the appropriate land use, for the purpose of development.

Discreti�onary Use – Means those uses of land, buildings or structures for which development permits may only be issued at the discreti�on of the Development Authority, following due considera�tion of the merits of the individual proposal.

Subdivision and Development Appeal Board – A board established by Council to process appeals made regarding development decisions.

Land Use Bylaw� – Land Use Bylaw 1773 is a document, set by Council, that regulates and defines all development within Kneehill County. It divides the County into Land Use districts, regulates how the land and buildings can be used, establishes the roles of the Development Authority, the methods of making decisions on applicati�ons for development permits, (including the issuing of development permits), sets out the method of appealing decisions, and provides guidelines for giving no�tice when development permits are issued.

Redesignation Process

Redesignation of land requires an amendment to our current Land Use Bylaw. This requires a

Apply

Public Hearing and the amendment to be passed

Complete and submit a Land Use Redesignation Application, and the applicable fee.

Apply

by Council during a Council meeting.

First Reading

STEP 3: Development Permit

The Planning and Development team will review your application, then send it to Council for First Reading, Council will set a date for a Public Hearing as well.

A development permit is generally required for any construction (including new construction, additions and structural renovations,) change of use of land or a building, or a change in the intensity of land or building use.

After First Reading is passed, Something to say? Say it now!

If you have concerns about the the application and Public proposed development please Hearing is advertised in the submit them in writing. newspaper for a minimum of two weeks. Notice is given to the landowner, adjacent landowner, and agencies.

Public Hearing

What’s the difference between a Development Permit and a Safety Codes Permit?

A Public Hearing will take place on the date set by Council. Interested parties may choose to speak to Council in favor or in opposition of the proposed redesignation at this time.

I bought an older mobile home? Can I move it onto my property?

No. Mobile homes older than 35 years are prohibited.

Mobile homes between 20-35 years are considered discretionary uses, and will need to go to the Municipal Planning Commission for approval.

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Advertise

Planning 101: Did You Know?

A Development Permit allows you to place something on the land, while Safety Codes Permits are in place to ensure you meet the required Building Code, when constructing or installing services to your development.

Development Process Complete and submit a Development Permit Application and the applicable fee. The Planning Department will then review your application.

Notification If the proposed development contains discretionary uses, notification is made to the applicant, adjacent landowners, agencies. and anyone with interest in the title.

Municipal Planning Commission The application is forwarded to the Municipal Planning Commission, who decide whether to approve or deny the application.

Permit MPC Decision Approved

Congratulations! Next step, Development...

Permit Denied

Appeal An appeal of the MPC decision may be made to the Subdivision and Appeal Board within 21 days of receiving notice of the decision. If you choose to proceed with an appeal, the SDAB Secretary to the Board will walk you through the appeal process.

Approval The application goes back to Council, where it will either be amended or given Second and Third Reading.

After the Final Reading, the Land Use Bylaw is officially amended, and your redesignation approved!

Something to say?

Say it now!

If you have concerns about the proposed development please submit them in writing.

SDAB Decision Permit Approved

You can now obtain any other permits you require, prior to development.

Permit Denied

The development cannot continue.

CANNABIS LEGISLATION Public Consumption: Bylaw 1771 From Bylaw 1771, Cannabis Consumption Bylaw: “Public Place” includes any place to which the public has access as of right or by invitation, express or implied. For the purposes of campgrounds, this would include individual campsites, however, would not include an individuals RV unit or tent.

PROHIBITION: A person must not smoke, vape or consume cannabis in any public place.

MEDICAL CANNABIS: A person who is entitled to possess cannabis pursuant to medical treatment is not subject to this bylaw. However, they must produce a copy of their medical document as proof, when requested by an officer.

Visit our website to view Land Use Bylaw 1773 www.kneehillcounty.com

Credit for Chart: Canadian Real Estate Association

Visit us @KneehillCounty

9

FIRE PREVENTION WEEK

As Fire Prevention Week approaches, Kneehill County encourages residents to “Look. Listen. Learn.”

Home fires today can burn faster than ever.

Occupants may have as little as one to two minutes to escape safely from the time the smoke alarm sounds. Knowing how to use that time wisely takes planning and practice.

Data from Statistics Canada show that the number of structure fires

declined by 26 per cent between 2005 and 2014.

However, residential fires consistently accounted for roughly six of every 10 structural fires during that period.

According to StatsCan, cooking equipment and smokers’ material caused approximately six of every 10 residential fires.

“These numbers show that while we’ve made significant progress in teaching people how to prevent fires from happening, there’s still much more work to do in terms of educating the public about how to protect themselves in the event of one,” said Lorraine Carli, NFPA’s vice president of Outreach and Advocacy. “This is

particularly critical given the increased speed at which today’s home fires grow and spread.”

Carli notes that home is the place people are at greatest risk for fire, but home is the place people feel safest. That overconfidence contributes to complacency toward home-escape planning and practice.

This year’s “Look. Listen. Learn.” campaign highlights three steps people can take to help quickly and safely escape a fire:

Permits are now required year round to burn in Kneehill County.

Remember to permit, before you burn it!

• Look for places fire could start.

Visit our website, www.kneehillcounty.com, No Netflix? and follow the links to fill out the form.

No Problem!

It's fast, easy, and will save you a $500.00 fine!

Your local library has more than just books to entertain you.

• Listen for the sound of the smoke alarm

• Learn two ways out of every room.

While NFPA is focusing on home fires, these messages apply to virtually any location. They encourage situational awareness--no matter where you go, look for available exits. If the alarm system sounds, take it seriously, know where to go, and exit the building immediately.

For more information about Fire Prevention Week and home escape planning, visit www. firepreventionweek.org.

MARIGOLD LIBRARY

Want to catch up on Game of Thrones before the final season? Borrow the DVDs! Headed to Mexico to escape winter and not sure if you’re pronouncing “cerveza” correctly? Take a No Netflix?

In 2017...

Spanish language course online!

No Problem!

788 people/families from Kneehill County have library cards registered at Marigold member Your local library Need has moreto than just bookssome to entertain you. to give your party atmosphere? stream music Login to Freegal, Marigold’s new music libraries or as L2U patrons Want to catch up on Game of Thrones before the final season?

Borrow the Your Marigold Trustee .. streaming service!

DVDs!

Attended 4 of 4 Marigold Board Meetings Across Marigold ...

Headed to Mexico to escape winter and not sure if you’re pronouncing “cerveza” All oflanguage this and much more is available with your Marigold Library membership. correctly? Take a Spanish courseso online!

102,922 people/families have a library card 186,965 eBooks borrowed Need to stream some music to give your party atmosphere? Login to Freegal, items loaned to Marigold cardholders Marigold’s new music streaming service!

Kneehill County subsidizes the cost of the Marigold library1,971,591 membership to rural residents. For more 10,513 programs with 122,865 participants All of this and so much more is available with your Marigold Library membership. information on becoming a library member, stop in at your local branch today!

929,786 items loaned and borrowed between libraries Kneehill County subsidizes the cost of the Marigold library membership to rural Over 3.3 million items available in TRACpac online catalogue residents. For more information on becoming a library member, stop in at your Over 15 million visits to the online library catalogue, including mobile app local branch today!

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Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Acme Municipal Library 610 Walsh Ave, Acme AB www.acmelibrary.ca

Closed

5 pm- 8:30 pm

9 am – 12pm, 12:30 pm- 4pm

5 pm – 8:30 pm

Closed

Closed

Closed

Village of Carbon Library Community Center, Carbon www.carbonlibrary.ca Linden Municipal Library 215 1 Street SE, Linden www.lindenlibrary.ca Three Hills Library 135 2nd Ave S, Three Hills www.3hillslibrary.com Trochu Municipal Library 317 Main Street, Trochu www.trochulibrary.ca

Closed

3pm – 8pm

Closed

1 pm – 5 pm

1 pm – 5 pm

9 am – 3 pm

Closed

Closed

4 pm – 8 pm

11 am – 8 pm

4 pm – 8 pm

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10 am – 8 pm

10 am – 8 pm

10 am – 8 pm

10 am – 8 pm

10 am – 3 pm

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9:00 am -4:00 pm

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10:30 am – 5:30 pm 10:30 am – 5:30 pm 10:30 am – 5:30 pm

SHOULDER PULL PROGRAM Kneehill County Road Study and the Shoulder Pull Program In 2014, Kneehill County requested a Road Study be completed to establish a rural road network and develop 7-14, 14-21 and 21-28-year plans for road construction projects. The study considers the County’s entire road network, which consists of over 2800kms of both developed roads and undeveloped road allowances, 1940 km of gravel, 90 km of paved roadways, and 860 km of undeveloped roadways, including dirt trails. There are over 213 standard bridges and bridge-sized culverts within the County’s jurisdiction.

Kneehill County Road Study Objectives: • Establish the Rural Road Network to identify the Arterial, Collector, and Local Roads within the County.

• Conduct traffic counts to confirm and supplement the assignment of roads within the Rural Road Network.

• Develop Road Standards to be used for future/new construction/ reconstruction.

• Complete a Grid Road Study consisting of a mile-by-mile assessment of all developed roads and undeveloped road allowances.

• Undertake a desktop review of all Bridges and Bridge-Sized Culverts to identify their condition and or/improvement requirements.

• Prepare the 7, 14, 21 & 28-year Construction Plans based on the results of the Grid Road Study and Bridge/Culvert review and establish priorities • Generate High Level Construction Cost Estimates for the recommended road and bridge work in the construction plans.

In 2015 Council approved the Rural Road Network Plan, however with a total cost of $153,470,000.00 to complete, certain roads within the 7-14-year road study plan were chosen instead for a shoulder pull/ recrown program, saving the County millions of dollars.

Operations 101: Did You Know?

What is chip-seal? Why does the County choose to apply chip-seal over heavy pavement?

A Chipseal Roadway is constructed by evenly distributing a thin base of bitumen oil onto an existing packed gravel surface, and then embedding a half-inch aggregate into it—basically a thin wear surface on top of the gravel roadway. Compared to an asphalt paved roadway, which costs $350,000 per mile, a chipseal wear surface costs the County only $70,000 per mile.

Cost Comparison: Shoulder Pull vs. Rebuild In recent years, tenders for road rebuilds have increased substantially, now costing anywhere from $500,000 - $700,000 per mile to complete, compared to the shoulder pull/recrown procedure, which costs $17, 368 per mile, plus an average gravel cost of $9,000 a mile, totaling just over $26,000 per mile. This does not include any bridge work or replacements needed, which have also increased over the last few years. Today, a single span bridge replacement costs approximately $500,000, a three-span bridge costs over $1.3 million, and a bridge-sized culvert replacement anywhere from $300,000 to $1 million.

Kneehill County is not rich in the resource of gravel, and as such must import much of the gravel required to maintain our road network. Each year 160,000 tonnes of gravel are used, with an associated cost of $3 million a year. The shoulder pull/recrown program will greatly reduce the amount of gravel needed in the future.

RR 25-5 Before

Over the years, roads have become wider as heavy traffic pushes the road material out to the sides. Regular grader maintenance cannot bring all that material in from the edges without making the road rough and impassable. As such, the roads become wider and wider, which in turn creates more passes per mile for the grader and more gravel per mile needed. With the 250 miles of shoulder pull/recrown completed over the last five years these problems have been alleviated, resulting in less sub-grade failures and more positive drainage from the road crown to the ditch as well.

RR 25-5 After

Twp 34-4 two years after being pulled

Visit us @KneehillCounty

11

TRANSPORTATION UPDATE Gravel Contract

the next couple weeks.

Please note, Rge Rd 25-5 road is closed due to the construction.

Kneehill County has entered into the final year of the three-year gravel purchase and delivery contract. A total of 150,000 tonnes of gravel will be hauled this year to SE 4-30-23W4, to help facilitate the delivery of gravel throughout the County. The other previous gravel stockpile locations were in Torrington, and at Three Hills Public Works yard.

The second structure is a single-span concrete deck bridge, located at SE 30-33-26-W4, to be replaced with two 2.2m culverts. Crews will be working on this structure starting midlate October. A road closure is expected, with construction taking approximately three weeks to complete.

Shoulder Pulls

Improvements

2018’s Shoulder Pull program is nearing completion. Every year a portion of the County’s roads are slated for this maintenance procedure, which helps keep positive drainage on the road top, reduces road rebuilds, repairs trouble areas, and reduces regraveling and grader passes. Over fifty-eight miles of shoulder pulls were completed in the Three Hills, Trochu, and Torrington areas.

Kneehill County forces have also been busy repairing culverts, washouts, slides and cleaning ditches from the spring flooding this year. With crews hard at work repairing the flood issues before winter, there has been some interruption to the dirttrail improvements, but the improvements will continue this fall as long as the weather cooperates.

This year a combination of shoulder pull and magnesium hydroxide 30 (MG30) injection was tested on Rge Rd 241, between Hwy 583 & Hwy 27. The MG30 is a non-corrosive product that is designed specifically for road base stabilization, with the added benefit of dust control. MG30 acts as a clay-enhancing agent

12

and subsequently performs well with silty and sandy base conditions.

Operations staff will be monitoring the test roadway over the next year and if successful, this combination treatment could benefit many other roads throughout the County.

Micro-Surface Twp Rd 30-4 (Linden West Roadway) received a micro-surface wear surface from Hwy 806 to Rge Rd 27-0. Micro-surfacing is a mixture of polymer modified asphalt emulsion, 100% manufactured aggregate, portland cement, water and liquid

additives. The product fills minor surface cavities and corrects weathered, pitted and raveling asphalt surfaces, while adding excellent skid resistance and extends the roadways life cycle.

Road Rebuild Rge Rd 25-1, north of Hwy 587 to Twp Rd 35-0, was identified in Kneehill County’s 2014 Road study as an arterial roadway with subgrade failures. It was upgraded this year to the road design standard of a nine-meter road top and 4:1 ditch slopes within thirty meters.

Hamlet of Huxley All chip sealed roadways in the Hamlet were pulverized, followed by and Kneehill County crews prepping the road surface for an application of chip seal. A final micro surface application will be applied overtop of the chip seal for a final wear surface, similar to asphalt, when the weather improves this fall.

Village of Torrington Kneehill County removed the existing spec crude street surface along 3rd Avenue and 2nd Street, re-

graveled and packed the surface to prepare it for a chip seal application. A micro-surface wear surface will be applied over the chip seal when the weather improves this fall.

Bridges & Culverts Kneehill County crews are replacing two bridges with bridge-size culverts this fall. The first structure is a single-span wood bridge located at NW 5-3125-W4, to be replaced with two 1.6m culverts.

All approvals from Alberta Environment are in place and crews will be working on this over

Brushing Crews will be busy clearing brush within Kneehill County road allowances over the winter months. If you have any concerns with trees or brush encroaching on the roadway or causing visibility issues, please contact the Transportation Department to discuss, 403-443-5541.