January 2023 Newsletter

WELCOME TO NEW REEVE AND COUNCIL MEMBERS!

New councillors were introduced and sworn in at the November 9, 2022 Regular Meeting of Council. Zoom Meeting screenshot photo

The RM of Ste. Anne saw a change in our Council membership following the 2022 general elections. We are happy to welcome our new Reeve Richard Pelletier and Ward 2 Councillor Kyle Waczko.

Along with our returning Council members, this team has already been hard at work attending a Council Ori-

entation session, the AMM Convention, and taking care of business during the multiple meetings we’ve had since the October 26, 2022 election.

Council is looking forward to 2023 where, after hearing your concerns, they are ready to work hard on finding ways to improve our communities by providing the programs and

services required and requested by constituents. Please visit the municipal website, or see the last page of this newsletter for Council members’ contact information and join us in the Spring for our annual Financial Plan Public Hearing to find out what’s being planned for you in 2023 (date and time yet to be determined).

WHERE DO I PUT MY SNOW?

As winter is coming, we would like to remind everyone that snow removed from driveways must be stored onto private property and cannot be pushed across the road-

way or amassed on the side of the road or in the ditches. Doing so creates a safety hazard, not only by reducing visibility, but also by creating ice mounds that can damage our graders and other vehicles.

When graders drive down municipal roads, they do so at a speed that allows them to throw the snow fur-

ther away from the road surface to reduce the accumulation. This also assists with road maintenance over the entire season.

Keeping snow on your property, and not in the road allowance, helps ensure clear roads all season long and increases the safety for all travelers.

CALENDAR

RM of Ste. Anne

2023 Council Meeting Dates

January 25, 6:00 pm

February 8, 9:00 am

February 22, 6:00 pm

March 8, 9:00 am

March 22, 6:00 pm

April 12, 9:00 am

April 26, 6:00 pm May 10, 9:00 am May 24, 6:00 pm

LUD of Richer Meeting Dates

February 1, 7:00 pm March 1, 7:00 pm April 5, 7:00 pm May 3, 7:00 pm

Meetings of the RM of Ste. Anne and Local Urban District of Richer are once again open to the public.

Council meetings are held in the Council Chambers of the RM Office at 395 Traverse Road and continue to be recorded and livestreamed via www.rmofsteanne.com.

LUD of Richer Committee Meetings are held in the LUD Hall at 136 Dawson Road in the town of Richer.

LUD of Richer

Garbage Pickup Day

Fridays

Deadline to submit your 2023 Grant Application February 15, 2023

IN MEMORIAM: BRENT WERY

The RM of Ste. Anne regretfully acknowledges the recent passing of our Ward 3 Councillor Brent Wery.

Brent has been serving his community for a very long time. He first became a member of the Municipal family by joining the Richer Fire Department in 2004. He has served the Richer area as a volunteer firefighter ever since. But his contributions to the Richer area were not limited to the fire department. Following the 2010 general elections, Brent was elected to represent the voters of the Local Urban District of Richer. During his time with the LUD Committee, a great many achievements were made including street paving, new sidewalks, and new services and programs, all meant to improve the quality of the town and the quality of life for its residents. Brent played a key role, and was very proud of having lowered or maintained the mill rate in the LUD during his tenure on the LUD Committee alongside his colleagues.

After serving as LUD Committee member for 8 years, Brent chose to run for Ward 3 Councillor where he felt he could make a difference on a broader scale. Since November 2018, Brent has brought his passion for Richer, for growth and development, for recreation, and for many other matters to the Council table. He always had the best interest of the people in mind, and spoke at length on the projects he felt would improve the quality of life for the RM of Ste. Anne residents.

Brent’s absence around the Council table will be felt by his colleagues in the municipal family, but his greater impact serving his community, not only in the fire department, but volunteering in many other capacities, will be greatly missed. Brent’s family can be proud of the legacy he leaves behind having served the RM of Ste. Anne. Brent, we thank you!

RICHER COMMUNITY CLUB MOURNS LOSS OF COMMUNITY-MINDED LOCAL RESIDENT

The Richer Community Club, the Richer Recreation Committee and the Richer Rough Stock Rodeo Committee are saddened by the tragic loss of Brent Wery.

Brent was passionate about the community and municipality. He was a past President of the Richer Community Club where he was instrumental in bringing life to many ideas, building the foundation of how we operate today.

He was all about community and neighbours, always willing to listen to and share ideas.

His commitment to the area he called home was worn on his sleeve as he committed his time to the LUD of Richer as an elected committee member, the RM of Ste. Anne as our municipal councillor, and as a long-serving volunteer fire fighter.

We offer our sincere condolences to his family and friends. He will be greatly missed.

It is with absolute immense sadness that we share that one of our long-time members, Captain Brent Wery, has passed away.

We cannot even begin to explain how huge of a loss this is for our department, let alone our community. Brent was 1 in a million... a friend, a mentor, a hero.

Rest easy, brother. We know you’ll still be riding with us.

RICHER FIRE DEPARTMENT – A YEAR IN REVIEW

As we come to the end of 2022, as a group we look back at some of the events that have come up throughout the last year; grass fires, vehicle fires & collisions, many training sessions, structure fires, search and rescues, etc. We have noticed a downward trend in the number of calls we’ve been responding to, so that tells us that we are all being safer as a community.

This year we saw three of our fire fighters attain their Level 2 Fire Fighter certificates as well as numerous other members attained their Vehicle extrication certificate, and a few members did some grain rescue training. We also saw some of our members be presented with their service awards: Mike Woodman,

David Reith and Adam Turner were given their 5 years of service awards and Wilf Kropp was given a 35 years of service award.

We enjoyed seeing all your happy faces this year at the parade (even though we got called out last minute) as well as at the hall this Halloween & at the Santa parade! With any luck, next year we’ll be present at all events once again to hand out more candy.

We’ve made a few improvements over the last few months as well; we installed a third overhead door for quicker response time and we got a new tender truck to help with water supply for both ourselves and when we get called upon to help our neighbouring communities.

We look forward to more community engagement in 2023 and we hope to continue to grow and learn as a team with each training night and each call we respond to.

From all of us here at RFD, we wish everyone all the best in the new year.

Three of our fire fighters attained their Level 2 Fire Fighter certificates. Left to right above: Kris Carriere, Victoria Woodman & Troy Barkman.

Grain rescue training.

A third overhead door was installed at the Richer Fire Hall for quicker response time.

RFD added a new tender truck to help with water supply for both ourselves and when we get called upon to help our neighboring communities.

We enjoyed seeing all your happy faces this year at the parade (even though we got called out last minute) as well as at the hall this Halloween & at the Santa parade!

We saw some of our members be presented with their service awards: Mike Woodman, David Reith and Adam Turner were given their 5 years of service awards and Wilf Kropp was given a 35 years of service award.

Vehicle extrication and other ongoing training.

All photos submitted by the Richer Fire Department

LUD OF RICHER: A YEAR IN REVIEW

2022 was another busy year for the LUD of Richer Committee. Here are a few of this year’s highlights:

- The Committee had another section of new sidewalks constructed this year, with the hopes to carry on the next phase in 2023. Due to inflation and a few logistical issues resulting in cost increases, the scope of the project had to be scaled back in 2022. This ongoing sidewalk renewal project serves to not only improve the surface quality of the sidewalks and improve our town’s esthetics, but will also widen these paths to ensure accessibility standards are being met.

- We installed new benches and flower pots along the asphalt walking path to create a better community space here for residents to enjoy.

- 2022 welcomed new businesses and changes in ownership of others, including some home businesses. The Committee is looking forward to more growth and development in 2023 and beyond as our town continues to grow and flourish.

- It was great to see the return of the Richer Rodeo, the summer markets, the 2022 Fall Rendezvous, and all the other activities and event that our amazing com-

munity volunteers organize. Our LUD Committee members were very proud to have been invited to participate in the Rodeo’s annual parade and see everyone come out to show their town pride!

- Upon the expiration of the 3-year curbside garbage collection agreement with JR Waste Haulers, the LUD of Richer Committee advertised this contract opportunity and we were pleased to receive multiple submissions from various service providers. After giving all proposals received careful consideration, the Committee recommended that Council award R & R Pickup this service contract for the next 3 years. We look forward to working with R & R Pickup who will maintain the Friday collection days. From the resident’s perspective, there should be no noticeable changes to services. But unfortunately there will be an increase to the levy imposed on tax bills for this service. Property owners in Richer can expect to see a fee of $100 for 2023 garbage collection services (as opposed to $86.80 as it had been for the past 3 years).

- Finally, our LUD Committee membership has changed following the 2022 general elections. Roger Godard said farewell after 12 years of serving the residents of Richer

as Chair of our Committee. We wish Roger all the best as he enjoys his retirement from our Committee.

Committee member John Lenton now serves as our Chair, and we were pleased to welcome Jessica Ostrowski, alongside returning

member Norman Bremaud, to our organization following the October 26, 2022 elections. With this new team, we are confident that we will carry onward with the growth, development and improvements that will continue to make Richer the place to be!

The Richer Roughstock Rodeo broke attendance records in 2022 and was thoroughly enjoyed by everybody happy to be back out at live events.

The Santa Stop parade through Richer was a highlight for local youngsters (and the young at heart!).

An RCC volunteer appreciation barbeque was held in the fall.

Photo by Dan Guetre

Photo by Myriam Dyck

Photos by Myriam Dyck

The

FARMLAND SCHOOL TAX REBATE APPLICATION DEADLINE

This rebate covers up to 50% of the school taxes owing, being less than in previous years due to the increasing amounts of the Education Property Tax Rebate cheques that were mailed out by the Province of Manitoba in October 2022.

Visit www.masc.mb.ca for more information on this program.

LONG SERVICE AWARD PRESENTED

In December,

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I NEVER GOT MY TAX BILL /RECEIPT!

Unfortunately, it happens all too often that tax bills or receipts don’t get to their intended recipients. This can lead to unpaid taxes resulting in penalties, and even tax sales if the problem goes unresolved for too long.

To avoid this issue, please ensure our office has your correct contact information. Mailing addresses, phone numbers and emails are very helpful for our office staff to be able to contact you should we get returned mail in your name. By providing us with your email address, we can then also automatically email your tax receipt whenever payments are received.

If you would like a copy of your Tax Statements and/or receipt, please email us at general@rmofsteanne.com and we will gladly send you an electronic copy at no charge.

LUD OF RICHER HALL RENTAL POLICY

Are you a non-profit organization looking for space to hold your meetings? The LUD of Richer Hall at 136 Dawson Road is available to be reserved by non-profit groups.

To submit your request, please visit our website at www.rmofsteanne. com. You will find the Rental Agreement Application and Agreement (Policy #16-ADMIN) under the Resources tab, in the By-laws and Policies page.

HOW TO

PREPARE FOR AN EMERGENCY

Do you know what to do if the power goes out for a few days? What about other types of emergencies?

Visit www.rmofsteanne.com to download the Family 72 Hour Emergency Preparedness Guide to help you and your family be ready for an emergency.

This document can be found under the Resources menu, on the Emergency Services page.

If you wish to help out in the community as a volunteer in the event of a widespread emergency, please download and fill in the Volunteer Form (on the same webpage) anytime to be added to our emergency resource contact list.

the RM of Ste. Anne presented Mike Hornan (retired Fire Chief of Giroux Fire Dept) with his long service awards (30+ years) and retirement gift at the annual Christmas Banquet. Thank you Mike, for your dedication and commitment to the community. Enjoy your retirement!

Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation requires all 2022 Farm

land School Tax Rebate applications be completed, signed and returned to their Steinbach Office by March 31, 2023. All property taxes must be paid in full in order to be eligible for this farmland rebate. If you need a copy of your receipt emailed to you, please email your request to general@ rmofsteanne.com.

Submitted photo

ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT

On March 9th WSP, an engineering firm with a specialty in planning, was selected as the consultant to assist the RM of Ste. Anne in updating its Zoning By-Law.

The Zoning By-Law promotes orderly and thoughtful development of property in the Municipality. Multiple meetings have been held between WSP and the steering committee throughout 2022 and WSP is about to finalize the draft Zoning By-Law.

An Open House will be held in 2023 to introduce the new drafted Zoning By-Law to the public, followed by a public hearing and formal circulation of the By-Law to the Province prior to adoption.

Keep your eyes open for the notice of Open House/Public Hearing!

CLOUDPERMIT

On June 15, 2022 the R.M. of Ste. Anne officially went live with, an online software which allows all building and development permit applications to be submitted, reviewed, and approved digitally.

Applicants can log into their online accounts and see review comments, check the status of their application, schedule inspections and communicate with the building inspectors with time stamped messages.

If you have any questions about the Cloudpermit process, please feel free to contact the Planning and Development Team at the RM office.

The RM of Ste. Anne provides annual grants to various individuals and organizations in and around the Ste. Anne area? By funding these organizations, it allows our taxpayers access to these amenities, services, and funding opportunities.

Here are some grants we’ve given over the years:

• Town of Ste. Anne Library – $15,000 – provides you with a free annual membership

DID YOU KNOW? PLANNING DEPARTMENT: YEAR IN REVIEW 2022

• Jake Epp Library Membership - Annual $60 rebate to residents towards their membership dues

• Swimming lesson rebate - $35 per child, per level, per year (up to 14 years old)

• Shock Trauma Air Rescue Service (STARS) • Enfant Jesus Heritage Site (Dawson Trail Museum) • Bursaries to graduating students from the RM of Ste. Anne • Accueil Kateri Centre Food Bank • Richer Community Club & Rink Board Project • Dawson Trail Arts & Heritage Tour • Ste. Anne Area Pioneer Project • Mennonite Heritage Village • KidSport • Heartland Quilters • Agriculture in the Classroom • St. Labre 200 • Children of the Universe • Southeast Manitoba Ducks Unlimited – Wrestling for Wetlands • Greenland Private School • Seine River Services for Seniors • Navy League of Canada

Ste. Anne Curling Club sponsorship

Operation Red Nose

And many more… If your organization is looking for financial support, please visit www.rmofsteanne. com to see our Grants Policy #08-ADMIN which contains the required application form. In order to be considered in our 2023 Budget, we would appreciate receiving your completed applications by February 15, 2023. Please also note that all organizations need to complete this form to be considered, even those who have received amounts from the Municipality in the past.

WHAT DO I DO WITH MY RECYCLING?

PLANNING DEPARTMENT STAFFING UPDATES

At the beginning of the year, Colette Nault-Martens was promoted from Administrative Assistant to Planning Administrative Assistant.

The Planning Administrative Assistant position has been newly created in 2022 in order to assist with inquiries and processing development applications due to the growing needs of the planning department.

Colette, who joins Development Officer Irina Poplovski in the planning department, has been a great asset and we look forward to increased processing speeds in the new year.

THE RM OF STE. ANNE ENCOURAGES EVERYONE TO RECYCLE!

Household recyclables can be dropped off in the GREEN Emterra bins at the following public locations across the municipality for your convenience:

- 35042 PR 210 (Municipal Public Works Shop)

- Intersection of Roads 39E & 45N (Paradise Village/La Coulee Mail Boxes)

- PR 302 @ HWY #1E (Richer Husky Parking Lot)

- 39011 Road 39E (Giroux Fire Hall Parking Lot)

If bagging your recyclables, please use only clear or blue bags. For a list of items that can be recycled, please visit our website.

If you are a business interested in a commercial recycling program, Council is working on developing a collection system for commercial sites. Keep your eyes open for more information as we roll this program out in 2023.

Finance

Development

Planning

PUBLIC WORKS: A YEAR IN REVIEW

The Public Works team had a busy year due to the amount of snow/rain and all the associated repairs that were required to ensure our roads were in good condition. In addition to these unexpected projects, the team had a full plate of budgeted projects they were able to complete.

Work was completed at Giroux Park, with an upgrade to the play structure and swing set with funding assistance from the Province of Manitoba’s Building Sustainable Communities program. The shelter also got an upgrade with new lights and metal ceiling with new railings. A new fence was also built along the train tracks, in partnership with CN, to ensure the safety of everyone enjoying the park. Watch for a grand opening celebration to be planned for 2023.

Another phase of work was also completed at Thurston Park. The basketball court was completed with the painting of new lines. New benches and picnic tables were added, making it more appealing for family get-togethers. Lastly, fencing was added to ensure safety and to keep any stray basketballs from venturing too far.

As part of the Municipality’s green initiatives, a new park and ride location was opened in the late summer on the west side of the municipal office site. In addition to individual costs to drivers, carpooling helps to reduce greenhouse gas and emissions, and helps us reach our climate change mitigation goals. This site is a great and preferred alternative to parking on a side road (which hinders

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COMMUNITY CLEAN UP EVENT

The RM of Ste. Anne is looking to host the 3rd annual Community Clean Up Event. In years past community members have registered with our office to clean a section of municipal roadways after the spring snow melt. This registration entitles participants to join us afterwards for a community barbeque and a chance to win some great prizes.

We love our Municipality and take pride in keeping it clean and welcoming for those living and visiting here. Help us out by joining our efforts! Keep your eyes open for the ads this spring.

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at Giroux Park, with an upgrade to the play structure and swing set with funding assistance from the Prov-

of Manitoba’s Building Sustainable Communities program. The shelter also got an upgrade with new lights and metal ceiling

new fence was also built along the train tracks, in partnership with CN, to ensure the safety of everyone

for

grand opening celebration to be planned for 2023. Photo submitted by PW Department