Lamont Reeve notes Municipal Affairs’ concerns
BY JANA SEMENIUK
Lamont
County Reeve David
Diduck addressed a letter from Ric McIver, the Minister of Municipal Affairs, during the Aug. 27 County council meeting.
Although the letter said a full investigation was not warranted, Diduck noted the minister listed several areas of concern including councillors not understanding their roles, councillors discussing upcoming decisions outside open council, and at least one councillor performing administrative functions.
“As council, we have to note that the minister did find a number of issues, and a number of them are related to council here,” said Diduck, who read portions of the letter including that ‘The Minister, along with the residents of Lamont County, expect councillors to conduct themselves with integrity and in compliance with legislative
requirements’.
Diduck further read that McIver wanted to make it clear that ‘I expect all members of council to discontinue any action that does not comply with the MGA. The ministry will continue to monitor the situation to determine if further consideration of intervention may be appropriate’.
Diduck said he supported a suggestion by the Minister of attending a Roles and Responsibilities Workshop for elected officials at no charge to the county.
op a ‘protocol to support positive relations between council members, administration and the community’.
“I think we've done a fair bit in that regard already,” he said. “I think one of the main things is we're having our coffee talks.”
Additionally, Diduck addressed the minister’s direction of council to devel-
The council began holding ‘Coffee talks’ where one councillor, along with Diduck, Chief Administrative Officer Peter Tarnawsky and Communications Director Jay Zaal, meet with different division residents in an informal open house style complete with coffee and snacks, where the residents are free to ask questions and
discuss issues. Diduck also noted that the council meetings are available online in addition to meeting highlights being published in the Lamont Leader.
“The end result is there was no inspection warranted, but the minister did find some areas of improvement for Lamont County council going forward here,” said Diduck. “I think it's incumbent upon us as Council to take the Minister's comments to heart here. I think we definitely have to take part in that workshop that he's recommending and move forward here.”
Over 900 Lamont County ratepayers signed a petition earlier this year requesting that the Municipal Affairs office conduct a full inspection on the county. Reasons included inflated staffing costs, proposed changes to the Land Use Bylaw and dishonesty.
The request was deemed “not warranted” by Municipal Affairs.
Inspection last resort for Municipal Affairs in dealing with complaints
Bruderheim tops list for number of calls locally, Lamont last
BY JANA SEMENIUK
While more than 900 people who signed a petition asking for an inspection into Lamont County were disappointed when Minister Ric McIver said one was not warranted earlier this month, representatives from the Municipal Affairs office shared background information with the Lamont Leader on how municipal complaints and concerns are managed.
They said concerns around issues such as municipal property taxes, and
service levels around public transit for example, should be directed to the complainants locally elected government.
They said that while the office does not investigate complaints about municipal actions, they will decide if further action should be taken if the municipality is non-compliant with the MGA (Municipal Government Act). A copy of the MGA is available for free online in a PDF or online format.
The office said a significant number
of concerns about a community could be considered when determining if further action should be taken and the minister will ultimately decide.
The office said they will look at several ways to support the municipality with an inspection being the last resort.
The office of Municipal Affairs also keeps track of all communications made to the department, and clarified these calls could be for a variety of reasons and not just complaints. They can also be simple questions or enquiries
into the community’s processes. In terms of a number of contacts and enquiries into the department, they shared that since Aug. 1, 2023 within the County of Lamont, the Town of Bruderheim has generated six calls to Municipal Affairs, the Village of Andrew has had five, Chipman has had four, the Town of Mundare has had one and the Town of Lamont has had none.
Lamont County Reeve David Dicuck
Linde to spend $2-billion on Heartland hydrogen operation
BY JOHN MATHER
Linde has agreed to terms to supply Dow in Fort Saskatchewan with clean hydrogen for Dow’s Path2Zero Project.
Under the agreement, Linde, which already has operations in Fort Saskatchewan, will spend $2 billion to build, own and operate a world-scale integrated clean hydrogen and atmospheric gases facility in Fort Saskatchewan.
Linde’s new on-site complex will use autothermal reforming, combined with Linde’s proprietary carbon capture technology, to produce clean hydrogen and will also recover hydrogen contained in offgases from Dow’s ethylene cracker.
Upon completion in 2028, Linde’s new complex in Alberta will be the largest clean hydrogen production facility in Canada, and one of the largest globally. It will be Linde’s largest single investment and its sec-
ond new world-scale clean hydrogen project, following the announcement of its project to supply clean hydrogen to a major blue ammonia project in the U.S. Gulf Coast.
In total, Linde’s new Fort Saskatchewan complex will capture carbon dioxide emissions for sequestration in excess of 2 million metric tons each year.
“Linde is helping to build a more sustainable future,” said Sanjiv Lamba, Chief Executive Officer, of Linde. “This landmark project aligns with our strategy of developing high-quality projects with secured offtake. Our technology, experience and execution are enabling the transition to a cleaner economy. We are proud to partner with Dow in its mission to decarbonize its Fort Saskatchewan site and are appreciative of the support of the Province of Alberta and the Federal Government.”
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith was thrilled with the announcement.
She has long championed hydrogen as a silver bullet to help Alberta meet Ottawa’s onerous emissions reduction caps while allowing it to continue to build out energy production.
“This is great news for Alberta,” said Smith. “Linde is investing over $2 billion to build, own and operate a worldscale integrated clean hydrogen and atmospheric gases facility in Fort Saskatchewan. This project will significantly reduce emissions, while providing the energy Canada needs.”
The project is expected to create 750 temporary construction jobs and 60 permanent jobs, and is the latest in Alberta to include carbon capture, utilization, and storage, with the target of capturing two million tonnes of carbon each year.
Heroes In The Sky
Above: During the Bruderheim Model T races Aug 31, there was a large antique vehicle show. One of the more unusual items was this Ford truck with a fuel trailer from the 1930s. The day was put on by the Bruderheim Agricultural Society. Below: It was a far cry from a Formula One pit on Aug. 31, as drivers and mechanics worked on prepping their flivvers for the Bruderheim Model T races. In the background a driver waits for the signal to move on the track for his qualifying laps.
Semi accident injures four west of Andrew
BY JANA SEMENIUK
Three vehicles, including a semi-truck and two SUVs collided at the intersection of highway 855 and highway 45 Aug. 28, sending four people to hospital including one person by STARS Air Ambulance.
Sergeant David Henry of the Two Hills RCMP detachment said they received a call at 4:40 p.m. that the accident happened.
“The accident is still under investigation. There were no fatalities,” he said.
“The driver and passenger in each of the SUVs were sent to hospital with unknown injuries and one of them was transported by STARS air ambulance.
The driver of the semitruck was not hurt.”
Henry said the accident scene was cleared by 7:30 p.m.
STARS Air Ambulance lands near Andrew on Aug. 26 to transport one of four injured people to Edmonton after a three-vehicle crash involving a semi. There were no fatalities but all except the semi driver needed medical attention.
Notice of application to be filed for approval of the natural gas distribution franchise agreement between the Town of Lamont and ATCO Gas and Pipelines Ltd.
Application summary
The Alberta Utilities Commission expects to receive an application from ATCO Gas and Pipelines Ltd. to approve the existing current and valid natural gas distribution franchise agreement with the Town of Lamont. This application for approval is required due to changes made by the Utilities Affordability Statutes Amendment Act, 2024, to various statutes governing franchise agreements.
The current franchise agreement, which took effect in January of 2016, grants ATCO Gas and Pipelines Ltd. the exclusive right to deliver natural gas to the residents of Lamont for approximately ten years.
No changes to the franchise agreement or to the franchise fee rate rider percentage are being made as part of this application. The franchise fee rate rider percentage will remain at its current rate, which is 35%. Including linear taxes, the resulting average monthly franchise fee for an average residential customer will remain the same at approximately $19.95. The franchise fee is calculated based on distribution charges. An average residential customer uses about 105 gigajoules per year.
You may send your concerns about, objections to, or support for the application in writing to Town of Lamont or to ATCO Gas and Pipelines Ltd. on or before September 19, 2024 at:
Town of Lamont, Attn: Franchise Agreement Coordinator, PO Box 330, Lamont AB T0B 2R0, phone: 780-895-2010; email: general@lamont.ca,
general@lamont.ca
ATCO Gas and Pipelines Ltd., Attn: Franchise Agreement Coordinator, 5302 Forand Street S.W. Calgary, Alberta, T3E 8B4, phone: 310-5678 or 1-888-511-7550; email: franchisecoordinatorgas@atco.com
Any submissions received, unless you request otherwise, will be part of the application submitted and will become part of the public record.
For more information on franchises or to receive a copy of the franchise agreement please contact either the Town of Lamont or ATCO Gas and Pipelines Ltd. at the addresses listed above.
For more information:
For more information about the AUC or its approval process associated with franchise applications, please contact the AUC directly at 310-4AUC or at info@auc.ab.ca
info@auc.ab.ca
The Alberta Utilities Commission is an independent, quasi-judicial regulatory body responsible for making decisions about utility-related applications.
Issued on September 5, 2024.
Alberta Utilities Commission
Opinion
Trudeau dumps on Albertans again with recent Senate appointments
BY JOHN MATHER
It was a long weekend, so it’s always a good time for Federal or Provincial politicians to sneak through something they know the public wouldn’t like.
And this year it was no different.
Justin Trudeau appointed two fresh senators from Alberta. Now in the grand scheme of things there’s nothing wrong with this. It’s his prerogative to appoint the senators with the blessing of the Governor General.
And in keeping with Alberta’s desire for a more effective Federal government, we like to elect our Senators. So did Pam Davidson, Erika Barootes, or Mykhailo Martyniouk get that call? After they were the elected Senators-in-Waiting in this province? They were duly voted as Albertans’ choices for the Senate in October of 2021.
Because Trudeau wants to snub Alberta the new appointees from Alberta are Dr. Kristopher Wells, who is largely outspoken about ensuring rights for the 2SLGBTQ+ community with research and advocacy; and Daryl Fridhandler, a corporate lawyer and businessman of over 40 years.
Wells has served on organizations and boards that include the Society for Safe and Caring Schools and Communities, REACH Edmonton, the Alberta Hate Crimes Committee, the Edmonton Police Chief’s Community Advisory Council, and the LGBTQ2+ National Monument Committee.
Currently the editor-in-chief of the Journal of LGBT Youth, Wells has been a vocal critic of the Alberta government’s plan for a policy requiring parents to consent before children under 16 can change their names or pronouns in schools.
Fridhandler is a King’s Counsel who has served on the board of numerous organizations, including the Alberta Ballet Company, Calgary Economic Development, and EPCOR Centre for the Performing Arts (now Arts Commons). He spent his legal career with the Calgary firm Burnet, Duckworth & Palmer LLP, where he became a partner in 1990. He is currently a director on the boards of ENMAX Corporation and of several private corporations.
CONTINUED
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith was quick to accuse Trudeau of ignoring the interests of Albertans.
“Despite our province’s repeated democratic election of senators-in-waiting ready to represent Albertans’ interests, he has chosen to appoint left wing partisans who will do whatever he and the Liberals order them to,” Smith posted on X.
“A big part of the problem is a promise Trudeau made in 2014,” said Davidson in an article penned for the National Post, “when he was gearing up for the federal election the following year.
“As the Liberal leader, he kicked every Liberal senator out of the party's parliamentary caucus and vowed to pursue making the Senate more independent. This promise was made when Senate reform was resurfacing in the national conversation.
“While the prime minister, and the Liberal party, have not respected the voice Albertans have expressed in the past, they need to respect that voice now at a time when regional dialogue is desperately important,” Davidson wrote. But of course Trudeau is clinging to his prime ministership only with the help of Jagmeet Singh and his ridiculous confidence agreement.
The NDP haven’t gained anything from this unholy pact and it is unlikely they will.
But you can bet Singh will hang on to it until his gilded pension is assured next February.
Unfortunately, neither Trudeau or Singh care about Canada’s waning reputation on the world stage.
And they certainly don’t care for any Canadians unless they hail from places like Ontario and Quebec.
Kerry Anderson Publisher John Mather Reporter Jana Semeniuk Reporter Crystal Moren Office
BY HAZEL ANAKA
Over the long weekend we had a chance to see our closest family members. Grady was attending a hockey training camp in Edmonton. The Community Arena at Rogers Place became our gathering place.
There were a couple of things that challenged us over the weekend.
Deciding what to wear was a big one. With the mild weather outside and the decidedly cooler arena climate, most of us were cold. I suppose the people in winter jackets were okay but must have looked a bit foolish outside. Whereas those of us in sandals and light clothing were okay outside but on the verge of uncomfortably cold inside.
The other thing that was a stretch for us was being up and at ‘em and in Edmonton three mornings in a row. The long days plus the drive home meant it was
FROM WHERE I SIT: Held Our Own
straight to bed each evening just to repeat the routine the next day. Have we lost our stamina, our staying power? With the arena in the heart of the city we saw our share of homeless and troubled individuals. Because our group was quite large, I don’t think anyone ever felt threatened; but neither did anyone just go for a stroll. Nor were we there after dark. I wonder if that population is also the reason for the large number of locked doors and security people. All the staff we encountered were very friendly even
when we surprised exOiler Jason Strudwick in a stairwell. We also had a Chris Knoblauch, Oiler’s Head Coach sighting. Someone also saw Al Hamilton and Jarome Iginla in the building. Lunch at Boston Pizza across from Rogers was a treat for the family because it doesn’t exist in the US. Everyone ordered their favourite menu item and got their BP fix. For a growing young man who’d just skated his heart out, the food couldn’t come fast enough.
Another day there was also time for a barbeque
Lamont and Area
LAMONT UNITED CHURCH
5306 - 51 Ave., Lamont, AB 780-895-2145
Rev. Deborah Brill
JUNE 30 ~ AUGUST 5 SERVICESRESUME
AUGUST 11
Doing Gods Work in other places. CHECKOUTOURNEWFACEBOOKPAGE!! Everyone Welcome! AA Meetings Thursdays at 8:00 pm
at Ash and Hilary’s. A number of outdoor games (axe throwing, an over-sized Connect 4, and ladder ball) kept the competitive juices flowing and the trash talk coming. It still delights Kade to beat Nana at anything so I was glad to do my part every so often. Oh, to be so young and full of piss and vinegar. The kid never stops. He also had fun pulling carrots from the garden--I can’t say I’ve ever seen him eat so many veggies in a sitting. He burned off a lot of energy at the neighbourhood playground.
equipment sure isn’t what it used to be. I wonder how kids get firstdegree burns on the back of their legs now that metal slides are a thing of the past? Count on Kade to push the limits and find new and probably unapproved ways to use all the equipment.
Grady turned fifteen a couple weeks ago and is a good eight or nine inches taller than me.
Playground
Playing hockey at this calibre is very demanding so it’s nice to see that he’s very conscious of what he eats. We had pre-arranged to take him birthday shopping while
From the files of The Lamont Leader
Bruderheim Community Church 4904 Queen Street 780-796-3775
SUNDAY
WORSHIP
10:30 AM All are Welcome! Check us out on
they were here so Sunday morning saw us at Southgate before he and Greg had a round of golf with friends. Caps and clothes are really important to this guy so it was Lululemon and Lids and they were off. Kade “needed” to go to the Lego store before we had a bite at the food court. After lunch we left him in Hilary’s capable hands and were off to do some errands. Texted pictures show that he ended up at a swimming pool. He would spend one more night at their house sleeping with Gertie before they head home Monday. It was a short visit with a whirlwind schedule, especially since they tried to visit as many friends as possible, either at the arena or during downtimes. They’ll need a vacation from their mini vacay. Because classes start in mid to late August in the States, the boys missed some school so it’ll be right back at it for them. The pace at which young families live and move is exhausting to contemplate never mind keep up with. But, I think we held our own this weekend, from where I sit.
Lamont Leader, Oct. 25, 2005: Injured in last season’s Major Junior hockey playoffs with Brandon Wheat Kings, Lamont’s Tim Konsorada had shoulder surgery in June which has put a delay on his advancement through the Columbus Blue Jackets system. He was the WHL’s third leading scorer and 6th round pick of the Blue Jackets in 2002.
Back to Alberta’s world-class schools - MLA
It is back-to-school season! I hope everyone had a wonderful summer. As the school year kicks into full gear, our government wishes all students, teachers, and school support staff the very best for the 2024-25 school year ahead.
We recognize that education is the foundation of our province’s prosperity and future, which is why we are committed to providing Alberta students with a world-class education.
There is more choice than ever in our education system, and with a wider selection of school choices and more dual credit and collegiate programming offering students opportunities to explore a full range of captivating career choices, students will find an education pathway that will help them succeed.
Throughout our province, non-profits enrich our communities and provide critical services.
To support their amazing work our government is providing more than $12 million to 248 non-profit initiatives through the Community Facility Enhancement Program and the Community Initiatives Program grants. Every year, these grant programs support hundreds of projects, such as playgrounds, community halls, art centres, festivals, events, and programs that improve Albertans’ quality of life.
Our government is committed to championing investments to secure the future success of Alberta.
This is why we are so thrilled with Linde’s announcement of their intention to build a $2 billion clean hydrogen and atmospheric gases facility in the Industrial Heartland.
This world-class facility will play a critical role
in the success of Dow’s Path2Zero Project, supplying it with hydrogen energy. In addition to this, the project will create 750 high-paying construction jobs and 60 permanent jobs. This is a huge win for Alberta’s energy sector, paving the way for the future of innovation while playing a critical role in the economic development of our constituency.
To end, I would like to congratulate Vegreville’s very own Sarah Melenka on her participation in the Paris Paralympics. Sarah will be competing for Team Canada in sitting volleyball and we couldn’t be more proud!
Please contact my constituency office at fortsaskatchewan.vegreville@assembly.ab.ca if you have any questions or concerns.
Jackie ArmstrongHomeniuk, Parliamentary Secretary for Settlement Services and Ukrainian Evacuees MLA Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville
Long
for
2 spd. Axle, Hoist, Runs * 16' Alum Spring Lock Boat w/ Oars, Evenrude Motor, hasnt
Bales,
in 10+ Yrs.
Goose Decoys * Goose Hunting Blinds Grain Bins & Sheds: *Approx. 1100 Bushel Steel Butler Bin * 12'X14' Wooden Bin w/ Metal Roof on Skids * White 10'X12' Barn Shed * 8'X10' White Chop/Grain Bin w/ Metal Roof * Metal 10'X10' Garden Shed on Wood Floor Antiques & Collectables: *Oak D. Room Suite w/ 51" Wide Buffet, 5' High X 33" Wide China Cabinet, Table w/ 5 Chairs, 1 Arm Chair * Red Color Step Stool, Nice * Round & Square Tubs * Hilliard Homemade UGG Elevator for Table, Etc. * Easter Eggs * 100 Ib. Beam Scale * Cordwood Saw w/ Mandrill * Sad Iron * Nice 16"X17" Red Coca Cola Cooler * Floor Stereo w/ Radio & Record Player * 2 Straps w/ 6 Horse Bells on Each one * Ivory Spreaders * Bridle & Bit Wool Carder * Metal Trunk * Beautiful Red Mint Cond. Couch & Chair * 1 Gal. Medalta w/ Lid * (2) 4 Gal Medicine Hat Medalta Crocks * 2 Cabbage Cutters w/ Boxes, 2 Blade & 3 Blade * 1 Metal 2 Blade Cabbage Cutter, No Box * Brown Wardrobe 75" High X 4' Wide * 1965 Wedding Gift 22" High Ashtray w/ Stand * Some License Plates, * Etc. Garage & Yard, (Brief & Partial Listing): *Good Selection of Power & Hand Tools * Various Air Impacts * Older Twin Air Compressor * Tool Chest * Parts Washer * Fourney Welder * 2 Ton Hyd. Press * Gear Oil Pump * Manual Tire Changer * Ant. Heins Werner 1 Ton Bumper Jack * Various Bolt Bins & Contents * Loggan Chains * Gear & Bearing Pullers * Table Saw * Car & Truck Service Manuals * Tap & Die Sets * Various Cords * Jackal & Hyd. Jacks & Floor Jacks * Power Fist 4 Ton Log Splitter * Old Skidoo Trailer, No Vin, Needs Work * Various Sockets for Rear Axle Trucks * Mag Pie Trap * Various Garden Tools * Dog House * Approx. 1 Cord Spruce Wood * Elect. Pea Sheller * 8' Windmill * Farm Crest 4 H.P. Rototiller * Sears 5 H.P. Rototiller * Older 8 H.P. Reartine Rototiller * 75 Gal F. Tank w/ Stand * 48" Swisher Lawn Sweep, Like New * M.Craft 17.5 H.P. R. Mower w/ 42 Cut. * Kids Bike * Plus Numerous Other Items Households: *68" High White Fridgidaire Upright Freezer, 4 Years Old, Nice *60" High Danby Fridge, Black Sides w/ Grey Doors, 4 Years old, Nice * Office Work Station * 3' Wide Filing Cabinets w/ Hutch * 60" Queen B. Room Suite w/ H& F Boards, Double Dressor & Mirror, 4 Drawer Chest, 4 Year Old Matresses * Small Danby Port. Air Conditioner * Various Couches & Chairs * Other B.R. Suites, Etc. *Sealors
We’re Hiring!
• 1-2 part-time community reporters. Must live within Lamont County.
• No experience necessary if you have some comprehension and writing skills.
• We pay mileage to and from events plus $ per story depending on experience and quality.
• Attend events, write from home and submit articles and photos by email.
• Starting soon, send your resumes to: Publisher kamcjm@gmail.com
Requirements
• Successful candidates must have a drivers licence, vehicle, computer & smart phone.
• Must be able to type, gather information accurately, and write at an average+ level.
• Must be friendly and polite.
• Must be able to take instructions from editor and publisher.
• Must be available day and evenings, weekdays and weekends for scheduled work.
• 3-5 stories will be assigned by editor weekly.
Proposed water line discussed at Lamont County coffee talk in Andrew
BY JANA SEMENIUK
Lamont County councillor Roy Anaka joined Reeve David Diduck, Chief Administrative Officer Peter Tarnawsky and Communication Coordinator Jay Zaal for their Coffee with a Councillor event on Aug. 26 in Andrew.
The open house style informal forum attracted 15 county residents, including the CAO of Andrew, Kylie Rude.
Several questions and concerns were raised including security around the County office and a proposed water line under road 201.
One resident questioned why the entry way into the county office was blocked off from public view.
Diduck said the blocking off of the county offices was done during COVID and simply hasn’t been opened back up. Tarnawsky added that the continued blocking off from public view is also a security measure.
“It sounds extreme, but there is also the safety and security aspect,” he said. “Within the past 10 days, we've had somebody who quite literally likely would have accosted our staff had the physical barrier, not been up.”
Meanwhile, county residents Alvin and Barbara Holowaychuk, voiced concerns around a proposed water line installation under road 201 southbound.
Alvin said he was upset the county did not communicate directly with residents who would be affected by the proposed water line, and questioned the potential of an enormous budget for the project costing the county millions.
“Why haven't the people been told what's been proposed for this water line. There's 14 families living on that road, and nobody knows about it. We have to read about it in the local paper,” he said. “A 20-inch line to
be bored down the middle of road 201 for 14 kilometers is a $100 million project. This county cannot afford a $100 million project to put pipeline water to the Heartland.”
Barbara Holowaychuk said they received a copy of the 80-page engineering report from the engineering firm and it was difficult to understand.
Diduck said that he has not seen the report. He added that having processed water available is important to attracting industry to the area in order to keep property taxes low for residents. He said Industry contributes 72 percent of the $16 million taxbase to the County while residential and farmers make up the other 28 percent.
“Without processed water, industry will not come. With processed water, there's a chance industry is coming,” he said.
CAO Tarnawsky said the County has fulfilled all notification requirements when the application was submitted by putting an ad in the local paper and said the engineering report was paid for by a grant from the Province.
“We followed the statutory requirements of Environment Canada when the application was submitted, we had to make that notification.
We held off making a broader notification, because it's not really an item. Will it progress?” he said. “I understand that you and a number of other people have issued statements of concerns, and you should have received a letter inviting you to the table. It was hand delivered to your residence.”
Diduck further added that many things have not yet been decided, including budgeting for the project and location options for the proposed water line.
“The license is pending. We still have the statements of concern to deal with here, hopefully that is done within the next two or three weeks,” he said. “As far as the waterline, there's been no discussion at a council level as to budgeting or finances for that water line at all on this purpose. One of the areas we're looking at, yes, we're looking at running the water line along township Road, 201, but that's basically never been formally discussed.”
Diduck said the province has committed $50 million to the five municipalities within the Industrial Heartland Zone to help build intakes to get the water out of the river.
The Sept. councillor coffee talk date has not yet been scheduled.
are now accepting Listings for
Real Estate Auction
The
Buy 1 Or Buy All 4 Quarters of Pristine Farm Land with Great Opportunities Situated In The Heart Of East Central Alberta. Just A Short 30 Minute Drive to Vegreville/Camrose/Sherwood Park.
These Quarters of Land Will Also Make a Great Investment Opportunity as Many Neighbours are Willing to Rent & Purchasing these Would Give the Buyer the Ability to Farm In Mile Long Stretches.
Directions: From Hwy 14 to Hwy 854, North on Hwy 854 for 12 Kms to Hwy 626, West on Hwy 626 for 0.3 Kms to Rg Rd 173, North on Rg Rd 173 for 3.1 Kms, East Hand Side of Road. OR From Hwy 855 to Twp 510, West on Twp Rd 510 for 4.5 Kms to Rg Rd 173, North on Rg Rd 173 for 1/2 Mile, East Hand Side of Road
Parcel #1: NW-15-51-17-W4M Being 160 Acres M/L w/ Approx. 129 Cultivated Acres Currently Seeded to Wheat.
This Quarter Consists of 160 Acres with Approx. 130 Cultivated Acres & Approx. 30 Acres Hay/Grass Land Which Can Be Used For Pasture Land/ Hay Land/ Future Yard Site, With Its Own Approach or it Could Also Be Cleared Into Arable Acres. Currently Being Rented for $110.00/ Acre
Parcel #2: NE - 15-51-17-W4M Being 160 Acres M/L w/ Approx. 113 Acres Cultivated Currently Seeded into Wheat.
This Quarter Consists of 160 Acres with Approx. 113 Cultivated Acres & With A Little Bit of Work 47 Acres Could Be Developed into Arable Land. Currently Being Rented Out At $110.00/Acre
Parcel # 3: SW-15-51-17-W4M Being 157 Acres M/L w/ Approx. 140 Acres Cultivated Currently Seeded into Canola
This Quarter Consisting of 160 Acres with Approx. 140 Cultivated Acres & With A Little Bit Of Work 17 Acres Can be Developed Into Arable Land. Currently Being Rented Out At $110.00/Acre
Parcel #4: SE-15-51-17-W4M Being 160 Acres M/L w/ Approx. 79 Acres Cultivated Currently Seeded into Canola
This Quarter Consists of 160 Acres with Approx. 79 Cultivated Acres & With A Little Bit of Work The 81 Acres of The Old Yard Site Could Be Developed into Arable Land or Turned Back Into Future Yard Site. Currently Being Rented Out At $110.00/Acre. The Old Yard Site Consists of Power & Gas at Property Line, Abandoned Water Well. Subject to Final Bid. If Final Bid is not Accepted, the Deposit Will Be Returned.
Real Estate Terms & Conditions: 10 % Down on Sale Day. Balance & Possession on or before November 14th, 2024. If Balance is NOT RECEIVED by November 14th, 2024 the Deposit will be Forfeited as Liquidation Damages. All measurements are approximate and need to be verified by the purchaser.
Ring #2 Selling by Totally Unreserved Auction for Darrel Magneson 4 Quarters of Land Forming a Full Section (Selling as 1 Block) of Mixed Farming Land in the Heart of Beaver County.
Located Just 3.5 Kms North of Hwy #14 on Rge Rd 165 or 5 Miles East of the Town of Riley on Twp Rd 500.
Just 3.5
This Full Section of Farm Land Consists of Approx. 400 Acres M/L of Cultivated Land and Approx. 80 Acres M/L of Hay Land with the Waskwei Creek Running Thru the East Side, Providing the Property with Ample Water for Both Livestock and Nature Lovers. In addition No Subdivisions have happened on the Beautiful Parcel of Land. The Former Yard Site is Located in the Centre of the Section with Power, Natural Gas & an Older Water Well. There is Also an Older Quonset with a Few Out Buildings. This is an Excellent Opportunity for Either a Farmer or an Investor. The Cultivated Land Does Have a Current Lease in Place Until October 31st, 2028. However, the Lease/Rent is to be Renegotiated at the End of this Harvest Year. The Current Renter Does have the Option to Match the Final Bid on Sale Day.
Legal Descriptions:
SE 4-50-16 W4M Consisting of 160 Acres M/L - SW 4-50-16 W4M Consisting of 160 Acres M/L NE 4-50-16 W4M Consisting of 160 Acres M/L - NW 4-50-16 W4M Consisting of 160 Acres M/L
Real Estate Terms & Conditions: 10 % Down on Sale Day. Balance & Possession on or before December 14th, 2024. If Balance is NOT RECEIVED by December 14th, 2024 the Deposit will be Forfeited as Liquidation Damages. All measurements are approximate and need to be verified by the purchaser.
Located
Kms North of Hwy #14 on Rge Rd 165 or 5 Miles East of the Village of Ryley on Twp Rd 500.
SLOW DOWN
OBEY SCHOOL AND PLAYGROUND ZONES. SPEED LIMITSARELOWEREDFORTHECHILDRENSSAFETY.
USE CROSSWALKS
ALWAYS USE MARKED CROSSWALKS WHENCROSSING ROADS: MAKESURETHEVEHICLEHASSTOPPED BEFOREYOUSTEPONTOTHEROAD, ANDBEALERT.
DONT DRIVE DISTRACTED
DON ’ T TEXT WHILE DRIVING. PAYATTENTIONTO THEKIDSANDCROSSWALKS, ANDWATCHFOR LITTLEONESRUNNINGOUTBETWEENVEHICLES.
STICK TO YOUR FAMILY PLAN
TAKE THE PLANNED ROUTES TOANDFROMYOUR SCHOOL, TELLYOURADULTIFITWILLCHANGE.
KEEP A PLAN - ANDBACKUPPLAN - WITHTHE KIDS: ROUTESTOTAKE, AFTERSCHOOLCARE, ETC.
KEEP A SCHEDULE
SETTING A SCHEDULE FORTHEKIDSANDYOURSELVESWITHHOMEWORK, WORK, EXERCISING, FAMILYTIME, ETCHELPSTHINGSRUNSMOOTHLY.
TO SET GOOD EXAMPLES, BEHELPFUL, ANDTOSEEK HELPWHENTHEYNEEDIT.
Bruderheim liquor store owner considering court after appeal denied
Former town councillor said decision of the ISDAB riddled with misinformation
BY JANA SEMENIUK
Bruderheim’s Vintage Liquor store owners, Melanie and Harrison Park, are considering appealing to a higher Alberta court after the Intermunicipal Subdivision and Development Appeal Board (ISDAB) ruled against their appeal of a business permit issued to Liquor Stop and Shop to open a liquor store in the town of Bruderheim, bringing the total number of town liquor stores to three.
The permit was granted on July 2, by Bruderheim’s Internal Development Review Board, consisting of Chief Administrative Officer Phyllis Forsyth, Chief Operating Officer Dennis Tomuschat, and Lamont County Regional Fire Chief Bo Moore.
The permit allows for the new liquor store to operate out of a location on Queen street that was formerly the Spirit of Bruderheim liquor store which has been closed since approximately 2019.
The decision was appealed Aug. 12 by the Parks who have owned their Liquor store, formerly Mad Liquor, since approximately 2016.
The Parks said the town has less than 1,400 residents and cannot support a third liquor store. They said, in addition to already having two liquor stores, Bruderheim also has two drinking establishments and a restaurant that also serves liquor. They said they have lived and ran their business in the town for nearly 10 years and a third liquor store would force out an existing one.
The decision handed down by the board cited a proper usage within the land use bylaw, and was ‘a re-establishment of a use for this property as before’.
Former Town of Bruderheim councillor Pat Lee, who supported the Parks at the appeal hearing, said the liquor store property is not as it was before because in the five years since the former liquor store has been closed, the Bruderheim Community Church moved in across the street in 2022.
Although the current land use bylaw indicates alcohol sales cannot be in close proximity to public schools, parks or a site being used for religious assembly, the Bruderheim Community Church sits across the street 58 meters away.
“Yes, there was a liquor store there before, but things have changed. It has been empty for five years and in that time the church moved into the ATB building (across the street). There has been changes and none of them were taken into consideration,” said Lee, adding she believes the board used incorrect information in forming their decision.
“When I read it over, I saw a lot of misinformation. I was surprised they called it the Alliance Community Church in Bruderheim when it’s the Bruderheim Community Church. They said (the new liquor store) was 200 meters away from any church when it’s only 58 meters away.”
Lee said she was also disappointed that the residents’ concerns were not considered as the Parks gathered over 260 signatures from customers who did not want to see a third liquor store open in town.
“I was also taken aback by the fact there was no consideration for the residents’ concerns with the petition. It wasn’t addressed at all,” she said. “I’m disappointed the town council never
listened to the residents. They have only one employee (the CAO) and it’s incumbent upon the council to make the CAO aware of what the residents’ wishes are.”
Meanwhile, Melanie Park said she was prepared to accept the board’s decision but felt she couldn’t after reading it.
“First thing I thought is I will take whatever decision. I thought they were listening when we had the hearing. But after reading the decision they didn’t listen at all. They took 15 days but didn’t check anything. This isn’t a joke,” said Park.
“They have to check everything and write down the truth. They only got wrong information. They didn’t get the name of the church right, so (obviously) they didn’t check. They said the church is 200 meters away. It’s only 58 meters. They didn’t check. They
said the church took over the bank, but didn’t say when. Are you kidding me? This is wrong”
Park said she doesn’t understand why the new liquor store owners would put over $125,000 into the building before getting their business permit and believes they had permission from someone. The new owners also did not attend
the hearing.
Park added that she has spoken to a lawyer who said it could cost more than $3,000 to file the appeal. She said she’s had a lot of support from town residents.
“People phoned me that they felt really bad and then I felt appreciated. I think we have good people in Bruderheim,” she said.
“They said I should appeal it for our business and for the town of Bruderheim. I already have hope to keep serving in Bruderheim even if nothing changes.”
The Parks have 30 days from the day the decision was handed down, Aug. 22, to appeal to a judge of the Court of Appeal.
Jobs at Métis Crossing
Bruderheim Vintage Liquor store owner Harrison Park (c) his wife Melanie (R) and supporter former Bruderheim town councillor Pat Lee (L) felt hopeful after the appeal hearing on Aug. 12. Their appeal against the opening of a third liquor store in Bruderheim was denied Aug. 22. Photo: Jana Semeniuk
Re-branding for Bruderheim Minor Sports
BY JANA SEMENIUK
Bruderheim Minor Sports Association (BMSA) has undergone a rebranding with a new team name and a new logo.
The Bruderheim Bandits won with 67 percent of the votes on a social media poll out of four other team names to choose from.
BMSA President John Muir said they have an entirely new board, with a new focus and needed to retire the previous name, the Bruderheim Bruins.
“We are a new board, we’ve had our first year of soccer, let’s start fresh,” said Muir. “Let’s bring something new to this town.”
Muir said BMSA was able to bring taekwondo onboard through a short introductory program this summer. He said it went so well, they have introduced a four month program starting later this fall through a partnership with Top Taekwondo in Fort Saskatchewan.
“We’ve got taekwondo coming here in the fall. They're looking to do a four-month program here with Belt Certification,” he said, adding that board member Brooklyn Torreson was key to getting the program going.
“The more people we can keep in our own town, and spending money to help our community works way better.”
Muir said registration hasn’t been opened yet but there will be different classes, depending on
age, starting as early as 4:30 p.m.
Meanwhile, Muir said the board is also looking into one major fundraiser, Chase the Ace, to relieve parents of a fundraising responsibility.
“I just applied for the license this week,” he said, adding he has had success with the game while a part of another club in Sk. “When we were doing it with Rocanville Minor Sports we were raising $70,000 that went to the club and $70,000 paid out. It’s a good fundraiser for the club and not a big burden for the parents. One person from BMSA can be there to do the drawsso it’s not a full evening or time away from the kids. It makes
sense to me (for parents) not to have to run around. We’ve got enough stuff going on in our lives.”
Muir said Chase the Ace is a game played weekly where people can purchase tickets and wait for theirs to be drawn. If drawn, they can choose a playing card which, if it’s the Ace, they win the pot. If not, they are guaranteed a certain dollar amount for having their ticket drawn and the pot continues to grow for the following week’s draw.
Muir added that BMSA is always looking for volunteers and more people to join the board.
He said BMSA is also hoping to include a youth baseball team this spring.
BACK TO SCHOOL DAYS
Unreserved Real Estate Auction for Lagoona Beach RV Park
Starts on Oct 11th, 2024 to Ends on Oct 15th, 2024
Address: 3915 49th Ave, Killiam, AB
Selling 5.71 Acres with 18 Full Service RV Lots with Power (2 with Power Only), Sewer & Water
Plus Internet, All Graveled & Nicely Treed with a Lake View.
Managers Office with 2 Bathrooms/Shower Combo (Handicap Accessible), Washer & Dryer Facilities
Plus the Main House is 1632 sq ft with Walk Out Basement, 4 Bedrooms & 2 Bathrooms, Under Floor Heater, Continuous Hot Water Heating & AC. New Single Car Garage Approx. 10'x20' Built in 2022.
Zoned: Commercial
Utilities: 220 Power, Gas & Town Water
This Property Could be an Excellent Investment as Killiam is Located at the Intersection of Hwy 36 & Hwy 13 in the County of Flagstaff with a Population of 1000 People & Lots of Oilfield Activity in the Area. OR You could use it as your home with a private campground right on a beautiful lake. There are so many options for this property.
Open Houses: Saturday - September 21st & Sunday - September 29th from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Owner: Tom at (780-719-8877)
Realtor & For More Information: Hill Realty Inc.
Norm Hill (780) 449-5622 Aaron Olson (403) 913-9644
Killam
Students were back to school throughout Lamont County last week.
Photo: Jana Semeniuk
CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Free Chokecherries! **No Saskatoons**
Cucumbers, Beans, Beets, Carrots, and Potatoes are Ready!! Off Highway 13 Turn North on RR 122 go North 3 Miles Helen Tanton 780-888-6800
BRUDERHEIM COMMUNITY THRIFT STORE
LOCATED AT MORAVIAN CHURCH COMPOUND FROM 9AM TO 6PM PLEASE CALL 780 707 0810 FOR DONATIONS.
COMING EVENTS
Forestburg Arena Association AGM
Monday September 23, 2024 7:30 PM
Upstairs at the Forestburg Arena and Multi-Use Facility
Positions to be filled. 2 year term. Everyone welcome.
Creation Ministries International will be at Killam Baptist Church on Sunday September 15 at 6PM. Gus Olsthoorn will be speaking on "If the Bible is True...." There will also be a Q&A session Books and media will be available for purchase. All ages welcome.
Flagstaff Players are holding Open
Auditions for our Spring 2025 musical production Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Audition Dates: September 10th or 12th, 6:30pm, Sedgewick Community Hall. Please come prepared to sing a song, it can be from the musical or not. If these dates don’t work for you, please contact us at flagstaffplayers21@gmail.com for an appointment.
Volunteen Program at Hardisty Health Center (2024-2025)
Registration is Now Open! Are you a youth aged 14-18 interested in a career in healthcare?
The Hardisty Health Center is offering a valuable opportunity to gain experience through their Volunteen Program. Those interested can call or message Sheila Commandeur at 780-888-7007, Monday through Friday, between 9 am and 4 pm.
The deadline to register is October 4, 2024.
FIREARMS WANTED FOR OUR 2024 AUCTION PROGRAM: Rifles, Shotguns, Handguns, Antiques, Militaria, Collections, Estates, Single Items. For Auction, or Possible Purchase: Toll-Free 1800-694-2609, Email Us at sales@switzersauction.com or Visit Us @ www.switzersauction.com.
LAND FOR SALE
EDMONTON COIN SHOW & SALESeptember 21/22 2024, 10 am - 4:30 pm, Sunday,10 am - 3:00 pm.. Lions Centre 11113 - 113 Street, Edmonton. Free market evaluations. Dealers from across Canada * Auctions * Displays * WATCHES * Family friendly! www.edmontoncoinclub.com/shows.
The Tofield Floor Curling Club invites all seniors 50+ to join us for the start of our fall and winter season of floor curling. We will be starting September 9th, and go till next summer. Every Monday at 1:00 pm in the Community Hall. For more information, please call Ralph @ 780-662-4555
Viking AA Group Meetings Wednesdays at 8 p.m. at the Golden Valley Lutheran Church
FOR SALE
Brian’s U-Pick Fruits, Berries, and Veggies has Strawberry Runners for sale. Available now.
•Goji Berries Suckers - 2 months old - plotted and ready to be picked up and planted. Buyers responsibility to pick up immediately after payment.
•Summer Raspberry plants for sale. until August 15.
•Fall berries ready August 15.
•Dwarf Cherry and Plum trees available. Buyers responsibility to dig up trees purchased. Payment required before digging. All sales are final. No refunds or returns. Cash only. Everything must go! Call Brian at 780-678-0053 in Killam
Large Keller china cabinet (approx. 2001)
glass doors, glass shelves, mirrored back, lights up.
2 separate pieces, top & bottom Approx. 7 ft tall.
Pretty heavy - will need truck and 2 people will be picked up from garage/driveway. $100.
Text 780-336-3422 if interested.
Anybody who likes cherries: Brian’s Upick has some that are ready for picking. Call 780-678-0053 for appointments and pricing.
Anybody who likes Swiss Chard: Brian’s U-pick has some that are ready for picking. Call 780-678-0053 for appointments and pricing. Potatoes are also ready!
BUILDINGS FOR SALE
INTEGRITY POST FRAME BUILDINGS since 2008 BUILT WITH CONCRETE POSTS. Barns, Shops, Riding Arenas, Machine Sheds and more, sales@integritybuilt.com 1-866-974-7678 www.integritybuilt.com.
Land for sale: 13.22 acres in Whitford. Great piece of land for farming or to build your dream home or hobby farm. No services on land. Call 780-951-7158 for more information.
SEED FOR SALE
ALBERTA FEED GRAIN: Buying Oats, Barley, Wheat, Canola, Peas, Screenings, Mixed Grains. Dry, Wet, Heated, or Spring Thresh. Prompt Payment. In House Trucks, In House Excreta Cleaning. Vac Rental. 1-888-483-8789.
WE BUY DAMAGED GRAIN - Heated, Mixed, Tough, Light, Bugs, Spring Thrashed....Barley, Wheat, Oats, Peas, Flax, Canola. "On Farm Pickup". Westcan Feed & Grain 1-877-250-5252.
FOR RENT
HARDISTY: 2 BR furnished house for rent available now. $1200 plus electricity. Call or text 780-717-6783
55+ adult bungalow in Belvedere Gardens with a single attached garage. Two bedrooms. In floor heating, vaulted ceilings, open concept. Available September 1st. $1,400/month includes utilities, except power. 4527 55 Ave. Tofield, AB. Contact Dan 780-970-7908.
In Chipman, 2 bedroom, newly renovated. Comes with fridge & stove, washer & dryer. Suitable for 1 person: non-smoker, no pets, references needed. Text 587-785-9339.
HEALTH
HIP/KNEE REPLACEMENT. Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING? The Disability Tax Credit allows for $3,000 yearly tax credit and $30,000 lump sum refund. Take advantage of this offer. Apply NOW; quickest refund Nationwide: Expert help. 1-844-453-5372.
HELP WANTED
Join Our Team! Dynamic insurance brokerage seeking an experienced broker. Competitive salary, Work-life balance, and a supportive team environment. Grow your career with us! Apply today: Call 780-662-0330, Email hello@ravenhillagencies.com.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN EQUIPMENT IS HIRING: Parts Technicians, Sales Consultant, Agriculture & Heavy Equipment Techs - Journeyman, Apprentices and Sales roles. View Open Roles www.rockymtn.com/careers. Possible Relocation and Signing Bonus Offered.
Clay-Con Construction Clayton Rauser38+ year Journeyman Carpenter 780-385-5448
All Types of Renovations
•Additions •Decks •Roofing •Concrete •Windows •Framing •5” Continuous Eavestroughs •Siding •and More!
Painting
Quality Residential and Commercial Interior Painting. Betty Tkaczyk 780-632-8749
Roy's Handyman Services. Flooring, trim work, basement finishing, decks, fences, kitchen cabinet installs and carpentry work. Call 780-232-3097
Medical Taxi Service
Personal Taxi Service to Edmonton and Back $175
•Absolutely NO Hidden Fees •Escort to Reception/Waiting Room •Pick up and Drop off at your door •Top Notch Service! •Retired Medic •Locally Owned and Operated 587-987-7810
PRIVATE MORTGAGE LENDER. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1-866-405-1228; www.firstandsecondmortgages.ca.
Hawkeye Ag Inc. Custom Corral Cleaning. Excavator, Bulldozer, Grader, Skid Steer, Compactor, Manure Spreader. Serving Lamont County and Areas, custom corral cleaning, earth works, aggregate and excavation. Call Clayton @ 780.718.7479, or email at hawkeyeagservices@outlook.com.
Specializing in Hail Damage Metal Roofing, Vinyl Siding, All Farm Structures, Metal and Building Restructuring. Call Clint at 780-226-9693. AA Affordable Contracting. Serving local area for 30 years. CWB Covered and Fully Insured.
Mike & Dave Rv Inc. Service, Storage, Parts. Call us today! 780-415-5015 or visit our website: www.mdrv.ca **Located just 11 kms North of Tofield on Highway 834**
WANTED
COLLECTOR/ ENTREPRENEUR PURCHASING COINS & COLLECTIONS! CASH PAID! ROYAL CANADIAN MINT COINS, collections, rare & old coins, silver & gold coins, jewelry, nuggets, bullion, sterling, gold & silver! 306-774-2420.
Council didn't know $10,000 fire billing cap was eliminated
BY JOHN MATHER
On Aug. 13 during their regular council meeting Lamont County councillors, during committee of the whole, heard about discrepencies in their fire billing rates and wondered how this occurred.
At a previous meeting council had requested additional information in fire billing and how the decision to remove the $10,000 fire billing cap had been communicated to the public.
At that time Regional Fire Chief Bo Moore had indicated fire billing rates varied widely across the region.
Council had asked how changes in the County’s billing rates had been communicated to the public.
Moore said fire billing policy 4130 had been rescinded by council April 26, 2022.
“In that policy it had a $10,000 cap for fire billing for non-insured. That policy was replaced by regional fire services bylaw 847-22. That was when the cap was removed.”
He said there was no special communications about rescinding the policy, rather it would have been included in any council regular communications.
The rescinded policy removed the billing cap completely.
Chief Administrative Officer Peter Tarnawsky added there was a note the media had not picked up the story but it was reflected in materials presented to councils. RoyAnaka asked if it had been emailed to the media, and Tarnawsky replied all agendas are available to the media.
Councillor Neil Woitas referred to a media article from 2021 when former Regional Fire Chief Shane Milligan had said, “Most of the time the bill is $1,500 or less. But the maximum that we are allowed to charge under our by-law is $10,000.”
“Somehow the bylaw was changed and we never caught it,” said Woitas.
Tarnawsky said the bylaw changed in 2022.
Moore said the policy was rescinded April 26, 2022.
The Regional Fires Services Bylaw, replaced Bylaw 715-11 and passed August 16, 2011.
In that bylaw there is no mention of policy 4103 nor is there any mention of that policy being rescinded in 2022 with the updated fire bylaw.
When asked about this on Aug. 15, County Communication Officer Jay Zaal emailed the Leader stating, “From my understanding it was rescinded at the April 26, 2022 council meetingRES 2022-215. This is in the Council minutes.”
The adoption would be in the original minutes too, but that may take a few days to track down from leg. services – earlier meeting minutes requires a bit more time to research and verify. I’ll see what I can confirm around a specific date ASAP - it is RES 11-271 (for Policy 4130), likely CARRIED in August/September 2011 meeting (I’ll need to verify).”
To date we have heard nothing further from the County.
Division Four Councillor Roy Anaka said his concern was that more than 50 per cent of the County residents didn’t know about the $10,000 maximum. I’m pretty positive about that.
“And then we changed it in 2022 to you’re (ratepayers) responsible for 100 per cent and we never thought of letting anybody know in In Focus or on a tax notice.
“Everybody assumes you have coverage for a decent price.”
He said in Vegreville the town had changed its policy regarding fire billing and nobody was aware of the new policy there either.
“I can’t believe we never let the public know you’re now responsible for 100 per cent of the fire billing.”
Woitas wondered
whether they could bring back the $10,000 cap.
Reeve David Diduck asked if policy 4130 was included as part of the agenda package when the new fire bylaw was approved.
“I wasn’t aware when we passed that bylaw we were eliminating the $10,000 cap.”
He said he was aware the new bylaw gave the County authority to charge for fire costs, but not aware the $10,000 was gone.
Woitas said he wouldn’t have been in favour of eliminating the $10,000 cap.
Diduck admitted it was something council had overlooked when the bylaw was passed.
“We may not have wanted to eliminate that,” he said.
Daniel Warawa asked what the cost of an average fire was.
Moore said once the $10,000 cap had been repealed there had been seven bills exceeding that amount.
Tarnawsky said at the time the new bylaw was passed the Council was moving away from policies which included fees and charges.
“The discussion around it was if there were bills higher than $10,000 they could be brought to council for discussion at that time.”
Anaka asked why only a few fire costs had been brought before council.
Tarnawsky said the ratepayer who had suffered the fire would be billed and then they could write a letter to council seeking some financial relief.
Diduck said fire billings was a very hot topic in the County currently and he had heard about it at a recent Coffee Talks meeting where councillors have the opportunity to meet with ratepayers and hear their concerns.
“If we went back to the $10,000 cap does it solve our problem?,” he asked.
Council felt towns and villages would have to include an amount in their own comparable fire services agreement bylaw.
Anaka said he’d be in favour of reverting back to the $10,000 cap and Woitas agreed. Division
Two councillor Aaron Wick said he felt it was a step in the right direction but he would like to see some fire costs covered in the annual mill rate.
Tarnawsky said if
council had maintained the $10,000 cap there would still be monies outstanding to be collected.
Diduck said council could look at including it in the mill rate at budget time.
Tarnawsky added he wasn’t sure the $10,000 cap was the right answer. He added they could bring an amendment to the fees and charges bylaw to include fire billing costs.
After going into a closed session, council authorized administration bring forward amendments to the Regional Fire Service Bylaw and Schedule of Fees Bylaw as related to maximum fees for fire billing.
LHCC donates to ARA
Lamont Health Care Centre CEO Shahad Bharmal shakes hands with Andrew Rural Academy Society Board Chair
Jason Tkachuk as he picks up 27 lockers as a donation from the LHCC on Aug. 27.
Photo: Merwin Haight
ARA
gets by with a little
BY JANA SEMENIUK BY JANA SEMENIUK
The Andrew Rural Academy (ARA) Society got a leg up on equipment for their charter school with a donation of 27 lockers from the Lamont Health Care Centre, Aug. 27.
Shahad Bharmal, Chief Executive Officer for the LHCC said he was happy the ARA could make use of the lockers which were removed from the Archer Building staff room when it was converted into a daycare.
“Village of Andrew (community) has always been there for Lamont Health Care Centre and Lamont County Housing Foundation, and we will be there for them as well.
help from their friends
We need to provide our future generation with wherewithal that is appropriate for their learning and growth,” Bharmal said by email.
“This is our community and above that, these are our children and our future.”
ARA society Board member, and Village of Andrew councillor Merwin Haight, said the lockers are a welcome addition to the school which is in the beginning stages of collecting the equipment they need to open next Sept. 2025.
“We are so grateful for the donation of 27 lockers to the school. This will really help us to get the school properly out-
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
Bondara Oilfield Services Ltd is looking for an individual to join our team to be a Part-Time Bookkeeper
Previous experience in QuickBooks and Microsoft Office is an asset; however, we are willing to train the right candidate. As a bookkeeper, you will be responsible for maintaining financial records, completing month end payroll, reconciliations, GST filing, Invoicing, Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable.
Applicants must have proficient written and oral English skills.
Our office is located on Main Street in Viking, AB.
To apply for this position please submit a resume to the following email: bondara@telus.net
Bondara Oilfield Services Ltd thanks all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for interviews will be contacted.
Roadside vegetation growth prompts letter to Minister from Lamont Reeve
BY JOHN MATHER
Roadside mowing along provincial highways in Lamont County should be happening soon, but it may be too late to satisfy Lamont councillors.
fitted for our students when we open next year,” said Haight.
The ARA society formed in 2023 following the closure of the Andrew School by Elk Island Public Schools.
The new K-12 charter school, scheduled to open in Sept. 2025, will focus on STEM; science, technology, engineering and math.
Councillors wanted the Reeve David Diduck to write a letter to the Minister of Transportation stating that the roadside vegetation was long and had gone to seed presenting safety issues to motorists and potential contamination of crop lands nearby.
Councillor Neil Woitas reported the grass was so high in some areas that animals were emerging from ditches into traffic and motorists couldn’t see them.
“Now everything is in seed and now there are seeds blowing every-
where,” he said.
He added there were six tractors doing sections of Highway 2 between Calgary and Edmonton but only two in the eastern part of the province.
Division Two
Councillor Aaron Wick asked why the province couldn’t hire local contractors to cut the vegetation.
County Agricultural Fieldman Terry Eleniak said he was having concerns about Alberta Transportation.
“We’re seeing vegetation really beginning to encroach on our two and three digit highways,” he said. “There’s some areas like Highway 29 and 855 where I’d be surprised if a 15-foot pass would clear it.”
He further added he
felt the province should have money to do this mowing because they should have money left over from snow clearing because of the light snow cover during the past year.
“I think we’re going about it the wrong way on our vegetation control compared to several years ago,” he said.
Diduck said some of the poplar saplings on Hwy 29 and 45 were growing fast and a regular mow couldn’t cut them down.
Council then passed a motion having the reeve write a letter to the Minister of Transportation asking that vegetation management be undertaken on provincial highways within the County.
Coffee Talks (with a Councillor)
Community Services: Serving Lamont County, Lamont, Bruderheim, Mundare, Andrew & Chipman
Thank you to everyone who attended the August 29 Coffee with a Councillor with Councillor Anaka. Sessions will continue later this year for September/October & November (likely after harvest) and times/dates will be posted in inFocus, on Lamont County Social Media, and at lamontcounty.ca/coffeetalks (schedule and summaries are posted once confirmed). This is further opportunity for the public to be engaged, ask questions and receive updates in an informal and smaller setting within each Division. Coffee Talks are planned for both morning and evening in each Division throughout the year.
Traffic Safety!
School is back in session. Don't forget rules around flashing lights for school buses and school/playground zones (it is illegal to pass a school bus when the red lights are flashing). #BeSafe #SlowDown alberta.ca/school-and-playground-zones
(VISIT: lamontcounty.ca/community-programming for full posters and locations, or call 780-895-2233 for info./registration). Some of the current CALC, FCSS & KFRN include:
1. Youth Coalition: for more info contact Erin.B@lamontcounty.ca.
2. Meals in Motion: SEPTEMBER Menu. Call Chrissy to order at 780-975-9592.
3. FALL PROGRAMS – Specific information is available (posters) at lamontcounty.ca/communityprogramming. Watch this space for updates in future inFocus editions when these are confirmed.
| FCSS: FCSSlamontcountyregion | KFRN: groups/1922602184662497 | CALC: LamontCountyAdultLearns |
4. Community Awareness Nights. Nights in Andrew, Bruderheim, Mundare and Lamont from Sept. 9-12. Come out to see that programs are in the community. There is a BBQ at each location as part of FCSS’s 20 year celebrations! ntcountyca
For more info, scan the QR code or lamontcounty.ca/community-programming | Contact CALC/FCSS/KFRN:
|
View a larger menu at lamontcounty.ca/ community-programming
SEPTEMBER MENU NOW AVAILABLE
Please Note – inFocus is also available for viewing online at: www.lamontcounty.ca/communications (for those wanting to view the weekly submission as full-sized PDF and to access hyperlinks).
20 - The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, September 4, 2024
Registration Renewal Reminder
If your last name or company begins with the letters F, Po, and T; remember to get your registration renewed before the end of August! See a monthly reminder list at: alberta.ca/vehicle-registration-expiry-date-chart.aspx.This message is brought to you by the Elk Island Traffic Safety Partners.
Next Agricultural Service Board (ASB) Meeting (October 9)
Have a Safe Harvest! It's harvest season! #LamontCounty wishes all producers a safe and prosperous harvest. Watch for larger (& slow-moving) vehicles/equipment that may be on roadways during your travels.
Some of these vehicles are wider than normal & need more space on the road.
Keep your distance and proceed/ pass with caution when safe— usually vehicles will pull to the side of the road periodically to allow you to pass. Be patient and safe!
The next ASB meeting is scheduled for Oct.9, at 9:00 a.m. The public is welcome to attend at the Lamont County Administration Building or virtually through Microsoft Teams (link): lamontcounty.ca/departments/agriculturalservices/agendas-minutes-asb.
To present or speak at a meeting, please contact Agricultural Services.
Happy #WeedAwarenessWednesday Lamont County. Each week, from AprilSeptember we feature prohibited noxious weeds for awareness and recognition.
If you find it, report it!
See our social media accounts & QR Code. For a list of noxious weeds visit: lamontcounty.ca/weeds
Weed inspectors inspect/identify weeds each year as required in the Alberta Weed Control Act.
See: lamontcounty.ca/public-tenders
Crop Surveys - Ag. Services
Firefighters’ National Memorial Day – Sept. 10
Lamont County joins cities and departments across Canada to honour and remember those who sacrificed their lives in service to their communities during Canadian Fallen Firefighters National Memorial Day.
(Learn more: canada.ca/en/public-safety-canada /news/2017/08/the_government_ofcanada establishesfirefightersnationalmemorialda.html.)
Police & Peace Officers’ National Memorial Day
September 24 is Police and Peace Officers’ National Memorial Day to honour and remember those who sacrificed their lives in service to their communities.
(Learn more: laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations /SI-98-97/page-1.html.)
Fire Advisory – Effective August 22
Lamont County is currently under a fire advisory. See https://www.lamontcounty.ca/emergency-services
Lamont County Agricultural Services is conducting crop surveys of wheat and canola on private land collecting tissue samples for the surveillance and monitoring of bunts, fusarium, smut, ergot, aster yellows, clubroot, blackleg, sclerotinia and verticillium.
Inspectors will be in a marked Lamont County vehicle and follow strict sanitation protocols as these are completed throughout September
For more information on pest surveillance visit Crop diseases | Alberta.ca. If you have any questions, contact Lamont County Agricultural Services at (780) 895-2585.
The next Regular Council Meeting is on Tuesday, September 10, starting at 9:00 a.m. The public is welcome to attend at the Lamont County Administration Building or virtually through Microsoft Teams (link): lamontcounty.ca/governance/agendas-minutes.
Community Programming
This Week’s Featured Noxious Weed: Hoary Alyssum
Next Lamont County Council Meeting (September 10)