April 2024 Neighbourhood Notes

Reeve’s Message

As spring approaches, we’re hoping for much-needed moisture to aid in a successful growing season and mitigate the wildfires that have been so prevalent in our province over the last few years. If conditions stay hot and dry, Fire Bans may need to be implemented in the County. Keep an eye on Kneehill County’s website and social media for Fire Ban updates, and ALWAYS get a permit before you burn.

County staff are gearing up for another busy summer, making sure our roads, parks, facilities, and services are all set to meet your needs. On that note, the ASB has made some changes to our mowing program, mowing TWICE per year (instead of once) to aid in maintaining kochia and other invasive weeds along the roadside. Along with this change, the policy for haying has been altered slightly to keep the roadsides clear—farmers are now given only three days after baling roadsides to remove their bales. Find more information on this on page 7.

In other exciting news, Kneehill County will host THREE summer Country Markets at Horseshoe Canyon this year: Sunday, June 30, Saturday, July 20, and Friday, August 9. These events aim to showcase the amazing growers, makers, and businesses in the Kneehill County area. If you are a local vendor looking to promote your products, we encourage you to contact our Economic Development Officer to learn more about this opportunity.

I also want to say a big thank you to everyone who came out to share their thoughts at our recent meetings about the Municipal Development Plan (MDP). Your ideas help us make better plans for our community’s future. Based on what you told us, we’re putting together a draft of this plan, and we’ll share it with you soon.

Thanks for being involved and helping our community grow.-Reeve Ken

King

Master Rates Bylaw 1893

January 9, 2024: Council passed Bylaw 1893, Master Rates, establishing rates and fees for various operations, products, permits, and services in the County.

Notable changes include:

• Water Charges and Flat Maintenance rates to align with the 2024 Operating and Capital Budget.

• Wind Farm Energy Conversion Systems renamed to match Draft Land Use Bylaw.

• Building and development permit fees updated.

• Weed Control and Management fees updated.

• Meter Installation costs amended for better clarity.

Bylaw 1889- Land Use Bylaw 1808 Amendment (Renewable Energy)

February 13, 2024: Council gave third reading to pass Bylaw 1889, as amended, replacing sections 71 and 74 (renewable energy sections) of Land Use Bylaw 1808. Visit our website to see a complete list of the amendments: kneehillcounty.com.

Missed a Council meeting?

Council highlights are posted on Kneehill County’s website and social media following each Council meeting. These highlights give a broad overview of Council decisions, including links to more information and the YouTube video of the Council meeting.

Council Contacts

Division 7

Reeve Kenneth King

Phone: 403-443-0285

Email: kenneth.king@kneehillcounty.com

Division 3

Deputy Reeve Jerry Wittstock

Phone: 403-312-6196

Email: jerry.wittstock@kneehillcounty.com

Division 1

Councillor Faye McGhee

Phone: 403-436-1611

Email: faye.mcghee@kneehillcounty.com

Division 2

Councilllor Debbie Penner

Phone: 403-818-3108

Email: debbie.penner@kneehillcounty.com

Municipal Development Plan Engagements

Kneehill County hosted round two of community engagement for the Municipal Development Plan in Trochu and Acme on January 11 and 18. Approx. 140 residents were presented with feedback received from the first round of engagements and were given the opportunity to vote and provide opinions on potential policy changes and planning options in the County.

Recommendations from all engagements will be brought to Council for their consideration in the revision of the Municipal Development Plan document, planned for March-April of 2024.

140 Kneehill County residents took part in the second round of MDP engagements, held in Trochu and Acme.

Div. 5 Ratepayer Meeting

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

Connect with us!

Join Councillor MachellCunningham for friendly conversation about Kneehill County’s policies and services. Everyone welcome! Monday, April 15, 2024 10 am - 7 pm, Three Hills Community Centre

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

Council Community Contributions

Acme Alumni Association

On February 13, 2024, Kneehill County Council presented the Acme Alumni Association with a cheque for $100,000.00 for the Acme School Gymnasium Project, approved by Council at the September 26, 2023 Council Meeting.

Wimborne Community Association

On February 27, 2024, Council presented Dorothy Weimer and Mark Goodbrand from the Wimborne Community Centre with a cheque for $15,000.00 from Kneehill County’s NEW Rural Hall Capital Grant Funding Program, which provides assistance for the development and enhancement of community halls in the County.

Coming Events!

Household Hazardous Waste Round-Up

Held annually in May, Kneehill County partners with the Town of Three Hills to collect residential Hazardous Waste.

Ratepayer Evenings

Held in June, Kneehill County’s annual Ratepayer Evenings give residents the opportunity to meet County staff and Council, ask questions, voice concerns, and win prizes for attending! Two of these events are held each year at alternating Community Centres in the County.

Growing Kneehill Country Markets

New for 2024! Council has approved three Country Markets at Kneehill County’s Horseshoe Canyon over the summer.

Stay tuned to Kneehill County’s website, social media, and our full-page ad in the Three Hills Capital for official dates and more information about these upcoming events!

Pictured (L to R): Councillor Laura Lee Machell-Cunningham; Mark Goodbrand, Wimborne Community Centre; Councillor Wade Christie; Councillor Faye McGhee; Councillor Debbie Penner; Councillor Carrie Fobes; Dorothy Weimer, Wimborne Community Centre; and Reeve Ken King.

Pictured (L to R): Councillor Debbie Penner; Matt Price, Acme Alumni Association; Councillor Carrie Fobes; Deputy Reeve Jerry Wittstock; Councillor Faye McGhee; Reeve Ken King; Councillor Wade Christie; Councillor Laura Lee Machell-Cunningham.

Kneehill County issues road bans during spring thaw to protect roads from damage. Effective March 8, 2024.

PAVEMENT & CHIP SEAL:

• 75%- Airport Road

(RR23-4, from Hwy 583 south to Airport)

• 75%- Allingham Road

(TWP 32-0, from Hwy 583 intersection west to County border)

• 75%- Buffalo Jump Road

(TWP 34-4, from Hwy 21 east to RR 22-0)

• 90%- Hastie

(RR 25-1, from Hwy 27 north to Hwy 587)

• 90%- Gorr Road

(RR 25-1, from Hwy 27 south to Hwy 583)

• 75%- Linden Home Road

(RR 25-4, from TWP 30-4 north to TWP 31-0)

• 75%- Linden East

(TWP 30-4, from Hwy 806 east to Hwy 21)

• 75%- Linden West

(TWP 30-4, from Hwy 806 West to County border)

• 75%- PBI Road

(RR 24-0, from Town of Three Hills north to TWP 32-2)

Dust Control-Coming Soon!

Kneehill County offers residents and industrial, commercial, or agriculture operations the following dust suppression treatment options:

FULL Calcium Chloride Service (2 Applications)

Calcium Chloride is made of hygroscopic compounds that draw moisture from the air and keep the road surface damp even under hot, dry conditions. Once calcium chloride has been applied twice, it will typically last the season under normal conditions.

Product Application: April-May

Cost: TBD

Spec-Crude

Spec-crude is crude oil mixed with gravel that is spread and then packed.

Product Application: April- June

Cost: TBD

Calcium Top Spray (1 Application)

Calcium Chloride top spray is used temporarily to reduce dust forming on gravel road surfaces.

Product Application: June-July

Cost: TBD

Stay tuned for Dust Suppression prices and more information!

Hamlet Garbage

Emergency Preparedness Week

This year, Emergency Preparedness Week (EP Week) is May 5-11, 2024.

Emergency Preparedness Week is a national awareness initiative that has taken place annually since 1996. It is a collaborative event undertaken by provincial and territorial emergency management organizations supporting activities at the local level, in concert with Public Safety Canada and partners.

EP Week encourages Canadians to take three simple steps to become better prepared to face a range of emergencies:

• Know the risks – Although the consequences of disasters can be similar, knowing the risks specific to our community and our region can help you better prepare.

• Make a plan – It will help you and your family know what to do

• Get an emergency kit – During an emergency, you will need some basic supplies. You may need to get by without power, heat, or tap water. Be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours.

Basic emergency kit:

• Water – at least two litres of water per person per day; include small bottles that can be carried easily in case of an evacuation order.

• Food that won’t spoil, such as canned food, energy bars and dried foods (replace food and water once a year)

• Manual can-opener.

• Crank or battery-powered flashlight (and extra batteries). Replace batteries once a year.

• Crank, battery powered radio (and extra batteries).

• First aid kit.

• Extra keys to your car and house.

• Some cash in smaller bills.

• A copy of your emergency plan and contact information.

• If applicable, prescription meds, infant formula, etc.

Visit www.getprepared.ca for more resources to help you and your family prepare for all types of emergencies.

Avian Flu Discovered Near Kneehill County

On February 19, 2024, Avian Influenza (H5N1) was confirmed by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) in a poultry flock in Mountain View County, closely adjacent to Kneehill County. The information is now posted on the CFIA website, and according to this information, the CFIA has begun an investigation and has established quarantine and movement control protocols in the affected area, including areas within Kneehill County.

Avian influenza is highly pathogenic and presents a significant national concern as wild birds migrate to Canada because of its global spread in wild bird populations.

The CFIA website contains resources on avian bio-security measures for poultry producers and owners with backyard flocks or pet birds. Anyone within the primary control zone is expected to adhere to the poultry movement restrictions and permitting process set by Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation. Those poultry owners with valid Alberta Premise ID registrations within the affected primary control zone should receive information updates from the Government of Alberta Office of the Chief Provincial Vet regarding the situation.

Kneehill County will continue providing updates for informational purposes as they become available. Kneehill County is not otherwise directly involved in the process, and any questions should be directed to the CFIA via their website or Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation via 310-FARM (3276).

Roadside Mowing Changes

Due to increasing weed concerns along County road right-of-ways, Kneehill County’s Ag Services has increased roadside mowing on all maintained County roads to twice yearly, starting June 1, 2024.

ASB Policy 1-32-1 Haying County Road Allowances, has been amended to support this change in practice. The most significant update to the policy is bale collection within County road right-of-ways. Now, bales must be removed promptly—no later than three days after baling. This will allow all maintenance operations, including roadside mowing, to occur uninhibited.

To view the full policy, please visit the Kneehill County website policy directory page at www.KneehillCounty.com

NEW! Cemetery Grant

Cemeteries are a place of honour and remembrance for many in the community. For those wanting to enhance a specific County-owned cemetery, Kneehill County has created a co-operative grant program.

This grant offers 50/50 cost sharing on enhancements such as decorative gates, fences, and trees that are beyond the standard service level currently delivered to all cemeteries.

Program funding is limited and enhancements are subject to approval. Visit www.KneehillCounty.com or call 403-443-5541 for more information.

Scholarship Program

Kneehill County Council recognizes the importance of an educated population to the future and well-being of rural communities.

The scholarship program supports rural Kneehill County residents enrolled in university, college, or trade school. Two (2) scholarships of $2000 each are awarded each year.

Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Be a rural resident of Kneehill County.

• Be enrolled in their first year as a full-time student at a recognized post-secondary institution.

Selection Process

The selection committee is made up of all current Kneehill County Councillors. Scholarship recipients are chosen each year based on the following criteria:

• 50% - Written Essay

• 25% - Letters of Reference

2024’s Essay Topic:

“What are the challenges and opportunities for youth participation in County decisions and public engagements? What barriers do young people face, and how can these obstacles be addressed to enhance their involvement?”

• 25% - Contributions to school or community; leadership activities and personal achievements.

Visit our website for more information, and to apply!

Rural Resident Connection Grant

NEW! The Rural Resident Connections Grant encourages Kneehill County rural residents to engage in local activities and promotes social connections by funding community events. Applications are accepted all year long.

Eligibility

Applicants must be rural residents of Kneehill County, and the activity or event must be held in Kneehill County. Businesses are not eligible for funding.

Century Farm Award

Application Process

Rural Residents interested in applying for the grant must complete an application form, detailing how the event will promote social connections, inclusion, and well-being. Visit our website for more information.

Is your family farm or ranch in Kneehill County over 100 years old? We want to celebrate your incredible legacy!

Nominate your family for our Century Farm Award to receive a commemorative plaque and recognition for your dedication, hard work, and agricultural heritage.

Questions? Contact Carolyn Van der Kuil, 403-443-5541.

Scan the QR code to learn more about our Community Programs!

KRFCSS

Kneehill Regional FCSS is a partnership between the provincial and municipal governments of Acme, Carbon, Kneehill County, Linden, Three Hills and Trochu. A board made up of one elected official from each participating municipality sets the direction for the program and makes funding decisions. The FCSS Director and staff carry out the activities of the program and liaise with other community groups.

Kneehill Regional FCSS develops and supports locally driven preventive social initiatives that enhance the well-being of individuals, families,and communities, and funds several Kneehill area projects and programs, including Seniors Outreach, the Kneehill Family Wellness Program, Kneehill Community Support Coach and Kneehill Family and Marriage Counselling.

Kneehill Regional FCSS provides several services and programs for Kneehill area residents:

• Information and Referral

• Parent Education

• Group Programs for Children, Youth and Families

• Community Volunteer Income Tax Program

• Volunteer Recognition, Education and Awareness

• Community Discovery Nights

• Tools for School

Visit the KRFCSS website, www.krfcss.com for more information and to access KRFCSS’s 2024 COMMUNITY DIRECTORY, listing sports, clubs, organizations, services, supports, and more in our area!

Behind the Numbers: 2024 Budget Approval

At the Council meeting on December 12, 2023, the 2024 budget received approval, marking a significant milestone for Kneehill County. Several crucial decisions were made during this session, reflecting Council’s steadfast commitment to the financial sustainability of our organization while safeguarding essential services. Among the key resolutions passed was the approval of the 2024 Operating Budget, totaling $30,497,413, along with allocations for operating projects, capital investments, and long-term forecasts. These decisions underscore our dedication to responsible fiscal management and strategic planning to meet the evolving needs of our community.

2024 Budget Approval

At the heart of Council’s decisions lies a commitment to the financial sustainability of our organization while ensuring that essential services are not compromised.

During the meeting, several crucial resolutions were passed:

• The 2024 Operating Budget, totaling $30,497,413, was approved (Resolution: 442/23).

• Transfers from reserves and contributions to reserves were endorsed (Resolution: 443/23).

• The 2024 Operating Projects and funding sources, amounting to $364,100, received approval (Resolution: 444/23).

• The 2024 Capital Budget and funding sources, totaling $5,944,272, were also approved (Resolution: 445/23).

• The 2025-2027 Operating Forecast and the 2025-2029 Capital and Project Forecast were approved. (Resolution: 446/23).

Key Investments

We’re pleased to announce key investments totaling $2.8 million for scheduled Capital Equipment replacements essential for maintaining our roads, water systems, protective services, and parks. Additionally, $2.4 million has been allocated for road network projects, including bridge replacements and rural road reconstruction. Furthermore, $620,000 has been earmarked for maintenance and upgrades to various County-owned facilities and park sites. Finally, $364,100 has been set aside for one-time projects to support operations, asset management, and asset condition assessments.

Ratepayer Impacts

We understand that budget decisions have real impacts on our ratepayers. After careful consideration, adjustments were made to property taxes and water rates:

• Property taxes: While individual impacts vary based on assessed values, typical hamlet homes can expect an annual increase of $19, acreages around $45, and farmland approximately $70.

• Water rates: A $0.25 per cube of water sold and a $1 increase to the monthly flat fee on water bills have been implemented to improve water services cost recovery.

Additionally, the minimum tax bill for parcels has been increased from $125 to $150.

Average Municipal Tax Bill

Commitment to Financial Prudence

We want to assure you that Kneehill County Council and administration are dedicated to prudent revenue and expenditure management. Our commitment to maintaining core services, preserving our infrastructure, and planning for the future remains unwavering.

As always, we value your input and encourage you to reach out with any questions or concerns. Together, we’ll continue building a solid and resilient community for generations.

Visit our website for more budget information, including the 2024 Budget Book (Winner of the Government Finance Officers Association Award!) https://www.kneehillcounty.com/2489/2024-Budget.

Grain Safety Training

In a collaborative effort to bolster safety and security within its agricultural sectors, Kneehill County’s regional firefighters participated in a Grain Safety Training Session, focusing on grain entrapment and safe grain handling practices. This initiative saw 35 firefighters from within Kneehill County (Trochu, Carbon, Linden, Acme, Three Hills, and Torrington) and neighbouring areas, including Alix, Innisfail, and Clearwater County, engage in intensive training designed to bring awareness to grain-related emergencies.

“While the training equips our firefighters with invaluable skills, we also want to stress the importance of preventative measures in grain safety,” said Dan Marsellus, Rural Fire Chief. “The most effective way to ensure safety is to avoid accidents in the first place. To this end, we urge our farming community to adhere to best practices in grain handling.”

Every year, several Canadian farm workers suffocate in grain bins. When farmers work with grain - loading it, unloading it, and moving it from bin to bin – they need to know about the hazards of flowing grain and how to prevent injury:

• Preparation is Key: Never enter a grain bin without a comprehensive plan. Educating children on the dangers is crucial, ensuring they understand that grain bins are strictly off-limits.

• Safety in Numbers: If entering a grain bin is necessary, ensure the presence of at least two individuals outside are ready and capable of providing emergency assistance.

• Be Aware of Hazards: Bins containing wet, mouldy, or spoiled grain may pose significant air quality hazards, including toxic gases and reduced oxygen levels. In such environments, it’s imperative to use blowers and wear suitable respiratory protection.

• Control Equipment: Securely lock out the power source to the grain bin’s auger to prevent any accidental operation while inside.

• Climb Safely: When inside a bin, if dislodging grain from above, ensure you’re on a permanent ladder and above the compacted or bridged grain level. A full-body harness with a lanyard secured above your head is essential for safety. A safety harness attached to a secure point outside the bin is necessary for bins without a permanent ladder.

AG Jug Collection

Reminder:

As of January 1, 2024, Ag jugs must be returned to retail collection sites for recycling. Kneehill County’s Transfer Site does not accept empty Ag jugs.

Visit our website, kneehillcounty.com, for a full list of retail collection sites within Kneehill County.

Learn

Hamlet Residents: Please note, burning barrels are not permitted in Kneehill County hamlets!

about grain safety on the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association website, www.casa-acsa.ca.