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COUNTY COUNCIL & SENIOR ADMINISTRATION
Lac La Biche County’s Vision and Strategic Plan
What is this document?
CAO BRANCH
Your County: 2019 In Review looks back on Lac La Biche County’s biggest achievements of the past year. Like last year’s document, it includes short articles about County projects. It also highlights new services and programs that were developed in 2019 that you might not know about.
General Administration Health & Safety Human Resources
ASSISTANT CAO BRANCH
Disaster Response Emergency Management Finance & Grants Fire Services
RECREATION AND COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT BRANCH
08 Aquatic Services 09 Enforcement Services 09 Family & Community Support Services and Community Development 11 Parent Link 11 Parks & Facilities 12 Recreation
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PUBLIC WORKS BRANCH
Agricultural Services Environmental Services Equipment Services Engineering Services Transportation Services Utility Services Waste & Recycling Management
20 LEGISLATIVE & INFORMATION SERVICES BRANCH 20 20 21 21
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To this end, we asked each County department to think about the following questions. What were our biggest successes? What did residents tell us that they needed? How did we revamp our infrastructure, programs, and services to meet those needs over the past year? And, of course, what could we have improved on?
Communications Information Technology Legislative Services Records & Information Management
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT BRANCH
Economic Development Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Planning & Development
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COUNTY SUPPORT
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2019 BUDGETED OPERATING REVENUES AND EXPENSES
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2019 BY THE NUMBERS
Lac La Biche County | 2019 in Review
YEAR IN REVIEW
Why did I receive it? The County believes that the best way to start each year is with a little reflection. Evaluating our strengths and weaknesses as an organization will help us serve you better. We believe that there’s value in sharing this information with our residents. By giving you a meaningful look at how the County operates and where your tax dollars go, you’ll have a clearer idea of where we’re headed as a community. You can use that knowledge to better participate in shaping our community’s future.
Lac La Biche County | 2019 in Review
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COUNTY
COUNCIL Term started October 2017 (ends October 2021) Omer Moghrabi Mayor
Charlyn Moore
Councillor, Ward 5
Darlene Beniuk
Councillor, Ward 1
Sterling Johnson
Councillor, Ward 6
George L’Heureux
Councillor, Ward 2
Colin Cote
Councillor, Ward 7
Colette Borgun
Councillor, Ward 3
Lorin Tkachuk
Councillor, Ward 7
Jason Stedman
Councillor, Ward 4
From left to right: (back row) George L’Heureux, Sterling Johnson, Omer Moghrabi, Jason Stedman, Colin Cote, Lorin Tkachuk, (front row) Darlene Beniuk, Colette Borgun, Charlyn Moore.
SENIOR ADMINISTRATION 4
Dan Small
Interim Acting Chief Administrative Officer
Melanie McConnell
Senior Manager of Legislative & Information Services
Darrell Lessmeister
Senior Manager of Recreation & Community Enhancement
Brian Shapka
Senior Manager of Public Works
Lac La Biche County | 2019 in Review
LAC LA BICHE COUNTY’S VISION AND STRATEGIC PLAN In 2018, Council set a vision for our community. That vision is: Lac La Biche County is proud to be a diverse, healthy, and safe community. Our citizens are engaged and enjoy enhanced social and recreational amenities. We are economically resilient as we continue to invest in top-quality infrastructure and services. We are environmental stewards who promote our natural assets, making Lac La Biche County the destination choice of northern Alberta. This vision has guided both Council and Administration throughout 2019, and heavily informed the 2020 budget’s priorities. In order to meet that vision, Council has set five strategic goals. Below is a list of these goals, along with a few of 2019’s biggest projects that helped the County make progress in each area.
1. Economic Development • Completed the Lac La Biche Region Tourism Strategy and Product Development Plan and the Lac La Biche County Retail Gap Analysis, which will guide the County’s future economic development. • Kept the Land Use Bylaw current, which governs how development happens in Lac La Biche County.
2. Recreation and Culture • Adopted the Recreation & Parks Master Plan, which outlines how the County will deliver future recreation programming. • Drew 1,420 participants to the revamped Summer Shack Program at four locations throughout the summer. • Brought recreation to various events throughout the County with the popular Park & Play Fun Van.
4. Tourism • Created three marketing videos for the #TakeItToTheLake campaign. • Produced the 2020 Visitor Guide, which promotes the County as a tourist destination. • Played a major role in hosting the 3D World Archery Championships to Lac La Biche County.
5. Environment • Under the Community Organics and Recycling Enhancement (CORE) Program, 1,676 kg of organic waste was diverted from landfills in 2019. • Updated the County’s Corporate Green Plan, which governs how the County will reduce its carbon footprint internally. • Began updating the Watershed Management Plan which, when adopted, will introduce environmentally-friendly practices that promote the health of the County’s watersheds.
You’ll find more details on each project listed above later in this document. To learn more about Council’s vision, be sure to read 2019-2024 Lac La Biche County Strategic Plan, which is available on www.laclabichecounty.com.
3. Social Wellness • Provided low-cost transportation for residents with the Community Access Bus service. • Completed a homelessness estimation count and report, beginning discussion on a transitional housing program. • Through FCSS’s teen volunteer group (Next Generation Volunteers), 700 volunteer hours were spent at various community events.
Lac La Biche County | 2019 in Review
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CAO
BRANCH General Administration
The department organized a variety of wellness initiatives for all County staff, promoting good nutrition, self-care, regular exercise, and more.
Council’s 2019-2024 Lac La Biche County Strategic Plan was adopted on February 5, 2019. Administration is now working on a corporate business plan, which will help staff achieve the vision and priorities that Council has set.
In partnership with the Workers’ Compensation Board of Alberta, staff set up an occupational injury service partnership with the Lac La Biche Associated Medical Clinic. This partnership provides quick access to medical resources when County employees are injured.
By April 2020, all Albertan municipalities must have Intermunicipal Collaboration Frameworks (ICFs) and Intermunicipal Development Plans (IDPs) signed with their neighbours. ICFs and IDPs guide how both municipalities will deliver services to and develop areas near their borders. ICF and IDP agreements have been started (and mostly completed) with the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, Athabasca County, the Municipal District of Opportunity, the Municipal District of Bonnyville, the County of St. Paul, Smoky Lake County, and ID 349 in 2019. Administration will have all agreements completed by April 2020.
Human Resources
Along with Council, Administration tried something new and held open houses in November 2019 on the draft 2020 budget. The public dropped in and discussed County programs, services, and projects they’d like to see funded. Residents’ comments were incorporated in the final budget, which was adopted on December 10, 2019.
Health & Safety Health & Safety held open houses for County staff at various facilities, which made the program more accessible to all staff.
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Lac La Biche County | 2019 in Review
Human Resources assisted all County departments with recruitment, filling 85 regular positions and 65 summer/ seasonal jobs in 2019. Staff implemented new software to streamline the recruitment process. The department organized training from NAIT to improve employees’ conflict resolution skills. Conflict resolution coaching was provided for supervisory and manager positions from Alberta Municipal Affairs. An employee satisfaction survey was conducted through the Great Place to Work Canada organization, in which 158 staff participated. As a result, the County was granted Great Place to Work certification. Human Resources is now working with Senior Administration to further improve County working conditions based on survey results. Lac La Biche County was approved for funding from the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association to complete the Measuring Municipal Inclusion Program. This program aims to measure and improve inclusion in Albertan municipalities. After conducting a survey in 2019, the County will create an action plan to improve inclusiveness in 2020.
ASSISTANT CAO BRANCH Disaster Response Ten Lac La Biche County firefighters assisted with the High Level-Chuckegg Fires from May to July 2019. The County added an extra Structure Protection Unit trailer to its inventory.
Emergency Management Currently, 112 County staff are trained in provincial emergency management at the level of Incident Command System 200 or higher. With this knowledge, staff can respond to emergency incidents (like evacuations) more quickly and efficiently. Administration reviewed the County’s Community Emergency Management Plan, then had it approved by the Province. Lac La Biche County met the requirements of the provincial Local Authority Emergency Management Regulation, which came into effect on January 1, 2020.
Finance & Grants County Council approved the 2019 budget on December 11, 2018. The operating expense budget was set at approximately $57.68 million, and capital expenditures were approximately $31.37 million. Council also approved the 2020 budget on December 10, 2019. Operating expenditures are approximately $53.2 million, and new capital spending is $24 million. $5.65 million were set aside in capital reserves, along with a surplus of approximately $900,000. Surplus and capital reserves allow Council and Administration to fund services and projects as they come up throughout the year. Council also set aside $5 million in a fiscal stabilization fund, which will soften the blow if the County faces losses in assessment and government grants.
A few grants that the County received in 2019 include: • $50,000 from the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association for the Measuring Municipal Inclusion Program, which will help the County become a more inclusive organization. • $747,750 and $123,750 from Alberta Transportation’s Strategic Transportation Infrastructure Program. This funding will be used for a bridge replacement and approach lighting, respectively. • $90,000 from Alberta Municipal Affairs under the Alberta Community Partnership Program. This grant helped the County develop Intermunicipal Collaboration Frameworks and Intermunicipal Development Plans with our neighbours. • $38,800 from Travel Alberta, which was spent on the 2019 #TakeItToTheLake campaign, promoting Lac La Biche County as a tourist destination. • $50,000 from the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta (FRIAA) to conduct a variety of Fire Smart activities, including wood chipping, home assessments, public awareness, and other initiatives. The County also received an additional $8,000 from FRIAA to train local firefighters in Fire Smart home assessments and wildland firefighting. • $14,700 from Canada Summer Jobs, which helped fund four County summer positions (two weed inspectors, and two environmental technicians). • $10,000 from Enbridge for AFFRCS radios, which will improve communications for Fire Services and Enforcement Services.
Fire Services Fire Services responded to 396 emergency incidents in 2019. Approximately $4.7 million in property was saved due to structural firefighting response. Firefighters took a total of 276 fire-related courses, including those on topics like Fire Smart and sprinkler protection. Firefighters used this training to complete 85 Fire Smart assessments and conduct wood chipping on 85 properties. The department participated in 63 public events, including fire drills, fire prevention programming at schools and businesses, and fire hall tours for schools and community groups. Lac La Biche County | 2019 in Review
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RECREATION AND COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT BRANCH Aquatic Services Throughout 2019, there were over 11,000 admissions to Portage Pool. 840 residents participated in swim lessons, and 70 took leadership courses. Portage Pool was recognized by the Canadian Red Cross for the highest sales in 2018 for a population under 5,000. The Pool also received 3 awards from the Alberta and Northwest Territories Branch of the Lifesaving Society for program excellence in lifesaving, swim to survive, and first aid. Portage Pool is working with and providing space for the Red Cross Indigenous Swimming and Water Safety Program, giving Indigenous youth the opportunity to participate in aquatic programs. Approximately 100 participants enjoyed the New Year’s Eve Glow Swim on December 31, 2019.
Glow Swim on New Year’s Eve Photo: Lac La Biche Post
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Lac La Biche County | 2019 in Review
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS BRING NEW PERKS TO RECREATION PROGRAMMING Despite tough economic times, our community continues to step up and support County recreation facilities and programs through sponsorships and advertising. Whether it’s free skating at the Bold Center or Plamondon Arena, paid facility rentals for the Festival of Trees, or free Child Mind access during select events, many perks would not be offered without sponsors’ support. Data from digital counters shows that Bold Center traffic continues to grow, with 357,000 exposures in 2019 alone—it’s truly the hub of our community. To find out more about sponsorship and advertising packages, contact the Bold Center.
Enforcement Services (Community Peace Officers) County Peace Officers responded to 2,707 calls for service. They conducted regular patrols in communities, totaling a driving distance of 237,236 km. Peace Officers also made 1,841 vehicle stops and went on 175 foot patrols throughout the year. Enforcement Services conducted emergency services and Peace Officer-specific training throughout the year, with 45 attendees. The School Resource Officer position was filled in late 2019. The position works with local youth and schools to provide positive interactions with law enforcement officers, promoting youth education. They engage youth and work on life safety topics, including bikes, crosswalks, impaired driving, bullying, and illegal drugs. Peace Officers also conducted 220 community safety and school presentations. Community Street Ambassadors were hired. They conducted patrols throughout the hamlet of Lac La Biche’s downtown core while interacting with business owners, residents, and visitors.
BOLD CENTER ROUNDABOUT GETS BEAUTIFIED
Family & Community Support Services (FCSS) and Community Development Youth Programming 100 teens registered in the Teen Chillzone program, which provides youth an opportunity to try new things as they spend time with their peers in a safe, supervised environment. An average of 30 teens attended each event. Staff ran four Class 7 Learner’s License prep courses in 2019, with 75 youth participating. More than 175 youth took part in No School Friday events, including trips to the Long Lake ski hill and Birch Bay Ranch. The department planned a variety of summer camps and workshops, which built youth’s confidence and taught them a variety of skills. 110 youth took part in the Circus Camp, Teen Camp, and Junior Teen Camp over the summer months. For younger age groups (6 to 12 years), a puppet camp and balloon-making workshop were held—45 attended. FCSS’s teen volunteer group (known as Next Generation Volunteers) spent 700 hours in 2019 at various community events, including the Family Day Festival, Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon, Carnival Night, Spooktacular, Connect for Mental Health, the Seniors’ Holiday Social, and more. FCSS staff held six It Takes a Village Parenting Workshops in 2019, with 112 attendees. Topics included art therapy for mental health, digital safety, childhood sexual abuse, sexual health, technology, and gender Lac La Biche County & sexual diversity.
The roundabout in front of the Bold Center was given a major facelift in 2019. In partnership with the Lac La Biche Arts Club and Melanie Braund’s Fine Art from Plamondon, the project progressed from concept in November 2018 to a completed installation in August 2019. Each feature captures a different aspect of the community’s character, but the first thing that you’ll notice is the large, curved feather at the centre. The feather pays special homage to the Indigenous community while reflecting our community’s emphasis natural assets like the lake and wildlife. It’s made from raw steel, representing the strength and backbone of the people who work together to make Lac La Biche County a strong, safe, and beautiful place to live and work.
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Seniors Programming FCSS held a seniors’ tea on elder abuse awareness, featuring speaker Bill Allen who gave a presentation on fraud awareness and prevention. Seniors went on a variety of “staycations” to the Mayfield Dinner Theatre, Prairie Gardens, the Alberta Museum and Spaghetti Factory, the Ukrainian Village, the Barr Estates Winery, and West Edmonton Mall. More are planned for 2020. Seniors Aquafit, a partnership with Portage Pool which helps seniors get fit with low-impact exercises, was wellreceived in 2019. FCSS organized a Seniors’ Sneak Peak at the Festival of Trees in November. Approximately 100 seniors viewed the trees without the crowds, and afterwards enjoyed refreshments and entertainment.
Seniors’ Aquafit
The annual Seniors’ Holiday Social, which featured a performance from comedian Graham Neil, drew a crowd of 400. Paratransit and Community Access Bus Services The new Community Access Bus provided low-cost transportation for residents in Lac La Biche County with punch passes and scheduled service. Staff assisted in transporting world archery competitors from 25 countries around our community, as well as to and from the Edmonton Airport. Community Access Bus services have supported a variety of schools, non-profit programs, and community groups with transportation, reducing barriers to participating in events and programs. Child Mind Child Mind services saw 1,005 paid drop-ins in 2019. Staff changed the hours to match other programming and workshops offered in the Bold Center, making child care more convenient for parents. They also provided free care during several Bold Center events over the past year. Staff introduced a new Summer Kids Club program, designed to build physical, social, emotional, and communication skills in children 18 months to 6 years with fun games, crafts, and outings. 248 children attended. The toy lending library at the Cenovus Child Mind Centre continued to be successful: 511 items were lent out in 2019. The toy lending library allows children and families to try new toys and educational items free-of-charge. Homelessness Project FCSS completed the homelessness estimation count and report. They also started discussion on and plans for a transitional housing program.
Child Mind
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Lac La Biche County | 2019 in Review
Staff coordinated initiatives like the Unity Symposium in April and Community Strong Empowering Together Conference in October, which brought more awareness of community issues to local social service workers.
Love Builds Brains Conference ft. Dr. Jean Clinton
Plamondon Arena Golden Sands Playground
Parent Link Program
Parent Link
Parks & Facilities
From April 1, 2019 to November 30, 2019, Parent Link served 243 different families.
The department improved many County facilities and outdoor spaces throughout 2019, taking on the following tasks. • Constructed the new archery facility and landscaped the surrounding grounds. • Completed the Paul Richard Memorial Spray Park washroom and concession building. • Installed artwork for the Bold Center’s roundabout (in partnership with the Lac La Biche Arts Club). • Renovated Jubilee Hall to relocate the Lac La Biche Museum (with federal Cultural Spaces grant funding). • Opened the Bold Center’s new food court. • Helped install the Bold Center’s new LED sign on Beaver Hill Road. • Relocated the Community Peace Officers to the Bold Center. • Completed renovations to the lower floor of McArthur Place. • Began construction on Bold Center Sports Fields Phase 1—this project will continue in 2020. • Renovated the Plamondon Arena lobby and washrooms. • Installed new playgrounds in the Golden Sands Subdivision, and added to the Dumasfield playground. • Resurfaced the Owl River and Rich Lake outdoor rinks. • Built a new golf course irrigation intake—the pump house will be completed in spring 2020.
Parent Link staff hosted world-renowned child development expert Dr. Jean Clinton from the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences at McMaster University. Dr. Clinton gave a talk titled the Power of Connection/ Love Builds Brains, with over 200 social workers, childhood development professionals, and parents in attendance. Parent Link organized Metewetan (Let’s Play) with the local Canadian Native Friendship Centre to deliver more culturally-sensitive programming. Staff organized prenatal classes for new and expecting parents in partnership with Alberta Health Services. They also organized a car seat clinic in partnership with Alberta Health Services and Lac La Biche County Peace Officers.
LAC LA BICHE MUSEUM FINDS A NEW HOME IN OLD JUBILEE HALL For several years, the Lac La Biche Museum was temporarily housed in the basement of McArthur Place. However, given the Museum’s success at archiving and displaying important artifacts and historical pieces, they quickly outgrew the space. In 2018, the County was fortunate enough to receive a grant from the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund, which we used to turn Jubilee Hall into an ideal location to house the Museum. The newly-renovated Jubilee Hall provides much-needed display and storage space, allowing Museum staff to continue to document, preserve, and teach our region’s history.
The Lac La Biche Museum & Visitor Information Centre was officially opened August 15, 2019. Lac La on Biche County | 2019 in Review
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Summer Shack Program
TRX Fitness Class
Community Appreciation Evening
New air bikes
Recreation More than 100 fitness and recreation classes, leagues, camps, and workshops were offered in 2019. There were 1,180 registered and 462 drop-in participants. Membership and drop-in revenue totaled $302,646.81 in 2019. Staff continued to administer the Prescription to Get Active (RxTGA) program in partnership with the Primary Care Network, Associated Medical Clinic, and Portage College. Individuals with borderline health concerns are issued prescriptions by a doctor for activity, then receive a two-month all-access pass to the Bold Center and Portage Pool. Staff give RxTGA members a facility orientation to build their confidence, then follow up to encourage clients and address any questions they may have. Approximately 100 Prescriptions to Get Active have been filled at the Bold Center since the program’s launch in October 2018, and approximately 40% of RxTGA members have continued to use County recreation facilities once their two months expire. Drop-in leisure opportunities such as open ice (offered at both the Bold Center and Plamondon Arena), adult basketball, adult soccer, and racquet sports continue to be crowd favourites.
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Lac La Biche County | 2019 in Review
Staff purchased a variety of new fitness equipment, including two air bikes, three spin bikes, a step machine, TRX straps, foam boxes, a landmine bar, a pentagon bar, and new bands. 21 clients received personal training consultations to help them meet their fitness goals and challenge others to overcome plateaus. 35 youth completed the Access Fitness Level I course, which teaches participants how to safely use the resistance machines and cardio equipment, fitness centre etiquette, facility rules, and basic nutrition. The Park & Play Fun Van continues to be a popular addition to school, block party, festival, and special events throughout the community. It has also supported a variety of Recreation, FCSS, and Parent Link programs. The revamped Summer Shack Recreation Program was a hit in the community, providing free, accessible recreation programming to 1,420 participants at 4 sites throughout the summer. The Bold Center hosted many special events throughout the year, including a “June is Parks and Recreation Month event,” the annual Community Appreciation Evening, cultural events and entertainment for athletes participating in the 3D World Archery Championships, and the first successful drive-in movie in September. Staff also organized the annual Spooktacular event, expanding it this year to include a youth area—more than 600 people attended.
The Recreation & Parks Master Plan was completed and approved by Council in July 2019. The Plan will guide how the County delivers recreation programming in the future. County Administration has already started implementing strategies from the plan—they will begin larger-scale projects in 2020. Two local athletes were highlighted in the Bold Center with full-size images and inspirational quotes as part of the Sports Inspiration Wall project. This project celebrates participation and achievement in sport and recreation, while creating a sense of community pride. Bold Center staff held the second annual Member Appreciation Week from September 3 to 6. Free fitness classes and child mind services were offered all week,
along with family activities, discounts, and daily draws. The week ended with a Community Appreciation BBQ, which 350 attended. A Cenovus Energy grant allowed staff to purchase equipment for Bold Center/Recreation drop-in programs and leagues, along with three sheds to support the free Summer Shack Recreation Program this summer. A new Bold Center LED sign was installed on Beaver Hill Road in spring 2019 to replace aging technology. The result is a 30-foot structure with a bright, eye-catching screen meant to draw new crowds to the County’s premier recreation facility.
BOLD CENTER PATRON TESTIMONIAL:
TREVOR V. GILL
Trevor V. Gill (pictured left, with his son on the right) is a Bold Center patron who used County facilities in 2018 and 2019 to lose weight, get fit, and turn his health around. Below is his story. Over the past six months, I have utilized your facility to train for the Canadian Death Race and Iron Horse Ultra 100 km events. During this time, I have always been greeted and given farewell by name, given words of encouragement, and treated to some of the highest levels of customer service I have known. This level of service continued over the past 2 months, when the cost to use the track was absolutely nothing. Having visited a number of fieldhouses throughout the province over this timeframe, I can honestly say that the Bold Center is second-to-none. With your support, I have achieved a loss of over 70 lbs, a 10-point reduction in BMI, a 16% reduction in body fat and, most importantly, a huge increase in my mental and physiological well-being. Your team was an integral part of this first achievement. With the spring months approaching quickly, I will soon be leaving the sheltered track to focus on trail training, but I will keep those days at the Bold Center close to my heart. Trevor sent the message above in early 2019. After County staff followed up with him in 2020, Trevor had this to add. My wall of run bibs grows larger, but I can still remember what it felt like to run a single lap at the Bold Center and have to stop because I was out of breath. I owe you and your team a debt I can never hope to repay. With your staff, I never felt judged, I was encouraged to come back, and even small milestones were celebrated. Trust that every time my foot pounds the trail, every aid station I rush through, every finish line I cross, and every medal that is bestowed upon me—it is a direct result of you and your staff’s achievements as part of a team.
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PUBLIC WORKS BRANCH Agricultural Services Agricultural Services hosted Agriculture Appreciation Day, with approximately 210 people in attendance. The department continued its efforts to prevent the spread of clubroot disease in the County. In 2019, 56 canola fields were inspected for clubroot, one of which tested positive. Staff drafted a new clubroot management agreement—public consultation on the agreement has started. They also held three clubroot workshops throughout the year. Along similar lines, the department completed 74 weed inspections on public and private lands, and issued two weed notices. Staff mowed 1,595 km of roadside vegetation to improve driver safety. Agricultural Service Board equipment was rented to 87 ratepayers for a combined total of 120 days.
Environmental Services Under the Community Organics Recycling and Enhancement (CORE) backyard composting program, approximately 1,676 kg of organic waste was diverted from the landfills in 2019. Environment Week in June 2019 attracted 720 participants for the week’s activities. Waste Reduction Week in October attracted 90 participants for a vermicomposting workshop, along with the annual Household Hazardous Waste Round-Up and Shred-It event. Staff held six Mad About Science camps over the summer months, teaching 73 children about the environment and science with experiments, games, and activities. The department conducted lake, beach, and inflow/ outflow sampling to measure lake health in the County. Staff also successfully completed reports on lake health. Environmental Services updated the County’s Corporate Green Plan, which governs how internal County departments will reduce their carbon footprints. Staff began updating the Watershed Management Plan which, when adopted, will introduce environmentallyfriendly practices that promote the health of the County’s watersheds.
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Lac La Biche County | 2019 in Review
Equipment Services Equipment Services supported all County departments by repairing and maintaining the County’s 300+ vehicle and equipment fleet. The County Centre shop routinely maintained fire apparatus, fleet vehicles, heavy equipment, trucks, trailers, and small equipment. Equipment services disposed of old equipment and procured replacements, including a grader, street sweeper, plow truck, snow blower, lawn equipment, fleet vehicles, and many other items required to deliver County services. The department continues to offer valuable experience to Registered Apprentice Program and work experience students by working with local schools.
BOLD CENTER SPORTS FIELD PROJECT CONTINUES INTO 2020 The Bold Center will soon be home to a variety of outdoor sports fields, thanks to a partnership between Lac La Biche County and the Northern Lights School Division. Work is taking place in two phases. Phase one includes an artificial surface sports field, an eight-lane rubberized track, and track & field facilities. The artificial turf will extend the outdoor season for local football and soccer teams, since turf can be played on without waiting for grass to green. Although phase one began in 2019, due to poor weather, the project will continue in spring 2020, with completion planned for August 2020. Phase two includes three irrigated ball diamonds and a natural turf sports field. This phase is planned to be completed in 2020, with facilities ready for operation in spring 2021.
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Engineering Services (Major Capital Projects) The 2019 construction season was another busy one, with the following projects now complete. • The Archery Facility (including water, sewer, and natural gas services, along with an access road). The new building was used to host the 2019 World Archery 3D Championships. • Mission Subdivision Water and Sewer, Phases 2 & 3. • County Shop Expansion (including phase 2, and site services to prepare for phase 3 in 2020). • The Sidewalk Replacement Program in the hamlets of Lac La Biche and Plamondon. • The Hamlet Resurfacing Program (which consisted of back lane paving in the hamlet of Lac La Biche). • The Holowachuk Estates access road (Range Road 134) and walking trail. • The Plamondon-Caslan Connector (north section) up to the first lift of pavement. Construction will carry over to 2020 for final pavement surfacing. • 100 Avenue base and pave in the hamlet of Lac La Biche. • Phase 1 (99 street) and 2 of the Lakeview Crescent Utilities street surface rehabilitation. Phase 3 and 4 of this project will carry over to 2020 for completion. • Grader shop in Craigend for storing County transportation equipment. • 104 Street base and pave with water and sewer, including a natural gas extension. Construction is complete to the first lift of pavement - the project will carry over in 2020 for completion. All carryover projects from 2017 and 2018 were completed this year, including the following. • Highway 858 Water and Sewer Replacement in Plamondon (phases 4, 5, and 101 Street were completed ahead of schedule and under budget). • Township Road 674 (also known as the Old 46). • The Plamondon-Caslan Connector (south section). • Elinor Lake Road, including repairs to road surfacing, approaches, ditching, and drainage. • The Old Trail walking trail. • The 91 Avenue and Highway 881 intersection improvement. Several engineering projects are also in progress. • 101 Avenue (Main Street Lac La Biche) Revitalization Plan, including water and sewer. • General Municipal Servicing Standards (GMSS) revisions. • The Regional Water Transmission Line Study. • Bridge replacement in five locations. • The Subdivision Resurfacing Program for five subdivisions, including Young’s Beach, Sunset Bay, Pleasant Acres, John Martin, and Golden Sands. • Sentinal Park water and sewer installation (with upgrades). • Sentinal East storm pond. • Stormwater Master Plan revision. • Highway 881 Crosswalk Lighting. • 95 Street Water and Sewer Network.
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Lac La Biche County | 2019 in Review
Transportation Services Transportation Services graded 1,189 km of gravel roads in 2019. As part of the annual road re-gravelling program, staff placed 70,000 tonnes of gravel over 300 km of roads. They also completed 9 km of road ditching, 9 km of brushing and mulch removal, and replaced 129 culverts. The department assisted with the Hamlet Resurfacing and Sidewalk Replacement programs. They sealed cracks along 121 km of paved roads, resurfaced 4 km of oil roads, and spray-patched 900 metres of asphalt seams. Staff also patched potholes and made other minor road touch-ups along 162 km of paved roads. Transportation Services helped with a variety of capital projects in 2019, including: • Construction of a parking lot and cold mix surface for the Archery Building road; • Preparing the base on the Old 46 roadway; and • Hauling gravel for the Bold Center Sports Fields. To improve safety, the department changed out and installed 180 road signs while repairing two guard rails. Staff installed three speed indicator units (one in Plamondon, and two in Lac La Biche), and placed three solar-powered crosswalk lights in the hamlet of Lac La Biche. Transportation Services completed 248 residential dust suppression requests, as well as dust suppression along key intersections and designated gravel haul routes.
CONSTRUCTION SPOTLIGHT: HOLOWACHUK ESTATES PAVING As part of the County’s efforts to improve access to residential subdivisions, paving Range Road 134 was one of 2019’s biggest projects. Range Road 134 (also known as Birch Drive) is the access road to the Holowachuk’s subdivision and provides a public route to the Beaver Lake boat launch. Work included paving Range Road 134 from the boat launch to Highway 663 (around 0.63 km), construction of a boat launch parking lot, and continuing the walking trail on the road’s west side. The project started on June 9, 2019 and, despite a very rainy summer, was completed on time and on budget by September 5, 2019. The result is a safer road for residents, boaters, and visitors alike.
CAPITAL PROJECTS Plamondon Hwy 858
Plamondon-Caslan Connector
Holowachuk Estates
Archery Building
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Utility Services
Waste & Recycling Management
Utility Services installed 7,700 metres of polyethylene natural gas lines throughout the County’s operating boundary. This includes the replacement of approximately 2,500 metres of steel gas lines. Polyethylene lines have an estimated 100-year life expectancy before they need to be replaced.
Throughout 2019, the County received 9,523 tonnes of waste at the Beaver Lake and Plamondon landfills. 897 tonnes of recycling materials were received—the recycling will be sent to recycling facilities.
The County secured alternative natural gas supplies to minimize the risk of outages. The County also successfully passed the Federation of Alberta Gas Co-op’s operation and maintenance audit. Staff continued with hydrant flushing programs in the hamlets of Lac La Biche and Plamondon (and along the Old Trail) to ensure that water is available for emergency responses. Utility Services installed three smart manhole covers in the hamlet of Lac La Biche. These covers will assist in monitoring effluent levels to minimize main line backups. Staff assisted with Phase 3 of the Mission Water and Sewer capital project. The County upgraded the water treatment plant chlorine injection system, allowing staff to be even more accurate with chemical dosages.
Via the Curbside Pickup Program in 2019, the County received 744 tonnes of waste, which were brought to County landfills. 117 tonnes of recycling were collected through the program and brought to the Edmonton Waste Management Centre. The department closed the Owl River and Elinor Lake landfills according to provincial environmental standards. The County installed pole sheds at the Beaver Lake and Plamondon Landfills, which will protect crucial equipment from the elements. The Beaver Lake Landfill was also reconfigured to accommodate installing a new scale and transfer station area. Waste & Recycling Management installed new oil recycling tanks at the Owl River, Hylo, and Craigend transfer stations. They also introduced a new agricultural twine recycling program.
LEARNER’S LICENSE PREP COURSE HELPS TEENS ACHIEVE INDEPENDENCE Learning to drive is tough and, for many teens, learning the rules of the road exclusively from a book isn’t the best way to prepare for the Learner’s License exam. It can be especially hard for those who learn best from hearing, seeing, or having discussions. That’s why Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) regularly runs a free Class 7 Learner’s License Prep Course, which helps locals aged 13 to 18 years overcome barriers when learning to drive. The course was originally developed by the Tribal Chiefs Employment and Training Services Association, and ran in the County via a partnership between that organization, Community Adult Learning, Community Futures, Employabilities, and FCSS. By including lots of group work, games, and videos, instructors kept the course interactive, fun, and well-suited to all learning styles. They made special efforts to address the psychology of test-taking, helping teens overcome their fear of failure. The course was also scheduled right after or during school hours, and at convenient locations inside or near local schools, making it as accessible as possible. Four Learner’s License Prep Courses ran in 2019 with 75 youth participating. Many of that number received their Class 7 License soon after taking the course. FCSS will continue to run it in 2020 and beyond, helping as many teens as possible achieve independence, become safer drivers, and build confidence. 18
Lac La Biche County | 2019 in Review
Transportation Services sealed cracks along 121 km of paved roads in 2019.
Lac La Biche County | 2019 in Review
19
LEGISLATIVE & INFORMATION SERVICES BRANCH Communications
Information Technology
Communications produced 11 editions of the Your County In Touch newsletter, which keeps residents informed about County projects and services.
Information Technology continued to support County staff and Council, fulfilling work orders that kept County-provided computers, phones, and other technology in good working condition.
The department developed a crisis communications plan, which will guide the County in the event of an emergency. In collaboration with the Economic Development department, staff wrote content for, designed, and printed the 2020 Visitor Guide, which promotes the County as a tourist destination choice in northern Alberta. Staff collaborated with contractors Marcomm Works and Trend Research Inc. to conduct the 2019 Citizen Satisfaction Survey which showed that, generally, citizens have become more satisfied with County programs and services since 2015.
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Lac La Biche County | 2019 in Review
Staff collaborated with other departments on a variety of projects, including implementing new meeting management software (eSCRIBE), setting up the new Bold Center LED sign, launching a new Bold Center website, and assisting with moving the Enforcement Services department to the Bold Center.
Legislative Services The department provided support for 32 regular Council meetings, 14 special Council meetings, and one organizational meeting, including agenda preparation and recording minutes. Staff established the Policy Manual Update Committee, which works to ensure that all County policies are relevant and up-todate. The Committee held 10 meetings and reviewed a total of 41 policies in 2019. Along with Finance & Grants, Legislative Services helped administer the 2019 Municipal Census. The numbers from the census will be used to determine the County’s grant funding from a variety of government organizations. The department processed 11 Freedom of Information & Protection of Privacy Act requests.
Records & Information Management The County’s records and information continued to be analyzed and audited in 2019 based on international and Canadian standards. The Records Retention and Disposition Bylaw was passed in 2019, providing regulations for the management, retention, and disposal of County records and information. Staff held interdepartmental meetings and consultations throughout the year with other County departments. These actions ensured that County records comply with local, national, and international standards. The department centralized and digitized the following records for future information requests: • Agreements and contracts; • Historic land use bylaws; • Historic amalgamation records; • Historic elections results; and • Historic land use and council motions.
Legislative Services implemented new meeting management software (eSCRIBE), which gives both Council and the public easier access to full agenda packages before meetings.
THE 2019 MUNICIPAL CENSUS: MUCH MORE THAN JUST A COUNTING EXERCISE Every few years, the County conducts a census to update the County’s population. An accurate count ensures that the County receives its fair share of grants and government funding; it also helps the County understand the audiences we serve, leading us to plan better programs and services. The County held the Municipal Census between April 17 and June 30, 2019. To start, residents were sent letters with unique PIN numbers, allowing them to voluntarily complete the census online, over the phone, or in-person at the County Centre’s front desk. After a two-week period, those who hadn’t yet responded were visited by County enumerators, who went door-to-door to assist those who hadn’t yet completed the short survey. The County’s total recorded population was 9,636. Of this total, 8,654 were permanent residents, while 982 belonged to the shadow population (those living in the County for work but who have a permanent residence in another municipality). This is similar to 2016’s counts, which recorded 8,544 permanent and 987 shadow residents.
PARTICIPATE ONLINE STARTING APRIL 17, 2019 — WATCH FOR YOUR PIN IN THE MAIL!
ENTER YOUR PIN online at www.censusalberta.ca/laclabichecounty to complete the census. If you didn’t receive a PIN or haven’t completed the census online, an enumerator will visit your household starting May 1, 2019. Visit laclabichecounty.com for more information.
Call 780-623-6804 or email census@laclabichecounty.com
The County submitted the results to the province, which have since been approved. A summary of the census report is available on laclabichecounty.com.
if you have any questions.
PLANNING & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BRANCH offerings in our community.
Economic Development With a contractor, Economic Development created three marketing videos to use in the #TakeItToTheLake marketing and advertising campaign. These videos received a national marketing award from the Economic Development Association of Canada. Staff helped organize the Lac La Biche Museum and Visitor Information Centre Grand Opening. The County hosted the Power Up North! Conference for entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners with several regional partners. This event had more than 100 attendees. The County also hosted the Travel Alberta Experience Essentials workshop. Economic Development completed the Lac La Biche Region Tourism Strategy and Product Development Plan and the Lac La Biche County Retail Gap Analysis. Staff worked with entrepreneurs to create new tourism 22
Lac La Biche County | 2019 in Review
With the Communications department, Economic Development completed the 2020 Visitor Guide to showcase the County as a tourism destination.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Services GIS updated the County’s mapping tools to ensure that the data continues to be accurate. Staff updated mapping in the Municipal Development Plan and began updates to mapping in the Land Use Bylaw. This work will ensure that the County’s two most important planning documents include relevant and accurate data. The department helped with the 2019 Municipal Census by providing mapping information.
Planning & Development In 2019, the department processed 134 development permits and 33 subdivision applications. They issued 545 safety codes permits, ensuring that construction meets legislated standards. Council passed the Land Sale Policy and Procedure. This policy will provide clear direction and guidance on selling County-owned lands in accordance with the Municipal Government Act. Planning & Development hosted a planning café to educate the public on when development permits and building permits are required, how the application process works, and the importance of municipal and environmental reserves.
The department completed the Main Street downtown trial in Lac La Biche, and compiled public feedback into a report for Council. Planning & Development organized a survey and information session on the draft Environmental Reserve Bylaw. They prepared a report with public feedback for Council’s consideration. Council updated the Land Use Bylaw with a variety of amendments throughout the year, keeping the Bylaw relevant and in accordance with the Municipal Government Act.
Staff coordinated with Transportation Services to install municipal and environmental signs throughout the County. The Sunset Bay and Young’s Beach areas are completed.
Lac La Biche County | 2019 in Review
23
COUNTY SUPPORT In 2018, the County supported the following organizations with capital projects, events, and more. Please note that the final amount paid to each organization may vary from the approved amounts, depending on actual project costs.
Capital Projects Assistance Grant Funding Program Organization
Project
Amount Approved
Craigend Recreational and Agricultural Society
Hall Roof Repairs
$49,346
Craigend Recreational and Agricultural Society
Replace Windows and New Property Clean Up
$5,636
Normandeau Community Centre
Playground and Refrigeration Unit
$42,074
Hylo/Venice Recreation and Agricultural Society
Hall Renovations
$65,000
Owl River Recreation Association
Tables
$1,240
Owl River Recreation Association
Electrical Deficiencies
$3,194
2019 Total:
$166,490
Community Development Grant Program Organization
Project
Amount Approved
Lakeland Out of the Elements Shelter
Operational Funding
$59,900
Lac La Biche Canadian Native Friendship Centre
Operational/Program Funding
$58,184
Community Learning for Adult Students Society (PAL)
Operational Funding
$40,000
Road to Hope Community Support Foundation
Operating Funding
$5,000
Victim Services Unit: Lac La Biche (VSU)
Operational Funding
$15,000
2019 Total:
$178,084
Recreational/Cultural Operating Grant Program* *Includes insurance costs paid directly by the County.
Organization
Project
Amount Approved
5HV Club
Operational Funding
$2,205
Craigend Recreation and Agricultural Society
Operational Funding
$39,260
Lac La Biche Heritage Society
Operational Funding
$25,628
Hylo/Venice Recreation and Agricultural Society
Operational Funding
$71,323
Lac La Biche Agricultural Society**
Operational Funding
$67,333
Lac La Biche Mission Historical Society
Operational Funding
$66,886
Owl River Recreation Association
Operational Funding
$17,987
Rich Lake Recreation and Agricultural Society
Operational Funding
$29,158
PDCDS-Festival Centre
Operational Funding
$351,730
PDCDS-Camp 3F
Operational Funding
$4,084
PDCDS-Plamondon Curling Club
Operational Funding
$39,193
PDCDS-Plamondon Museum
Operational Funding
$5,555
PDCDS-Mini Heritage Park
Operational Funding
$3,121
PDCDS-Plamondon Seniors Rendez Vous Centre
Operational Funding
$25,360
PDCDS-Phillip Menard Cultural Centre (ACFA)
Operational Funding
$36,019
2019 Total:
$784,843
**The $16,069 under County Paid Insurance is actually the power bill for the Lac La Biche Agricultural Society, which the County pays directly.
Community Cemetery Improvement Program Grants Organization
Project
Amount Approved
Protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church (Craigend Area)
Cemetery Improvements
$10,909
Grandin Cemetery
Cemetery Improvements
$15,000
Mission Cemetery
Cemetery Improvements
$10,000
St. Anne's Parish Cemetery (near Venice)
Cemetery Improvements
$2,500
2019 Total:
24
Lac La Biche County | 2019 in Review
$38,409
Pow Wow Days
Event Sponsorship Grant Program Organization
Project/Funded Activity
Amount Approved*
Lac La Biche Mission Historic Society
Canada Day
$5,000
LLB Agricultural Society
Lakeland Fair
$5,000
LLB Agricultural Society
Rodeo
$8,000
LLB Gymnastics Society
Fundraiser
864.74
Lakeland Classic Wheels Club
Festival of Speed
$25,000
Lac La Biche Firefighters Society
Snow Pitch
$2,000
Lac La Biche Heritage Society
Seniors Week
$2,000
Beaver Lake Cree Nation
Beaver Lake Pow Wow
$1,500
Lac La Biche Kinsmen
Rob McCormick Memorial Pond Hockey Tournament
$2,796
Lac La Biche Pow Wow and Fish Derby Association
Pow Wow Days*
$37,000
Lac La Biche Pow Wow and Fish Derby Association
RCMP Musical Ride
$3,914
Metis Nation of Alberta- Region 1
National Indigenous Peoples Day
$3,272
La Federation du Sport Francophone de l'Alberta (FSFA)
Alberta Francophone Games
$15,000
Lac La Biche Minor Lacrosse Association
4th Annual Wolves Invitational Tournament
$2,000
Venice Picnic Association
Venice Picnic
$1,617
PDCDS
Mud Bogs
$10,000
Association Canadiene-Francaise de l'Alberta (ACFA)
Hockey en Fete
$1,000
Lac La Biche Minor Ball Association
Midsummer Sports Days
$4,000
Lac La Biche Chamber of Commerce
Huntmania
$2,750
Lac La Biche Lions Club
Festival of Trees
$4,097
Craigend Recreation and Agricultural Society
Harvest Dance and Social
$2,354
2019 Total:
$139,164
* Includes the $12,000 approved for fireworks.
Lac La Biche County | 2019 in Review
25
Ad-Hoc Funding Grants Organization
Project
Amount Approved
Wolfpack Volleyball Club
Team Expenses
$1,000
Ecole Beausejour
Trip to Quebec
$1,000
Lac La Biche Northern Wolves Peewee Hockey Team
Native Provincial Hockey Tournament
$316
Plamondon Volleyball Club
Toronto Volleyball Tournament
$2,000
White Caps Swim Club
Track Suits
$1,000
Amber Skyrpan
Amber Skypan
$750
Ecole Beausejour
School Hockey Program
$400
Ecole Plamondon School
Three Hills Volleyball Tournament
$1,000
2019 Total:
$7,466
Community Action Grant Organization
Project
Amount Approved
Lac La Biche Nordic Ski Club
Storage bags and wax kits
$500
Light of Christ School
Adopt A Grandparent
$500
2019 Total:
$1,000
Other Major Funding Contributions Organization
Project
Amount Approved
Lac La Biche County Library Board
Operational Funding
$567,364
Lakeland interpretive Society
Operational Funding
$149,725
Lac La Biche Regional Humane Society
Funding for New Shelter
$10,000
Lac La Biche Clippers Junior B Hockey Club
Operating Funding
$20,000
Portage College
Voyageur Hockey Team Sponsorship
$100,000
Lac La Biche Regional Health Foundation
Alumni Hockey Game
$15,994
2019 Total:
$863,083
Insurance Organization
Project
Amount Approved
Lac La Biche Chamber of Commerce
Insurance
$629
Normandeau Community Centre
Insurance
$1,101
Lac La Biche County Library Board
Insurance
$703
Lakeland Interpretive Society
Insurance
$7,959
Little Divide Search and Rescue
Insurance
$3,420
Lac La Biche Pow Wow and Fish Derby Association
Insurance
$629
2019 Total:
26
Lac La Biche County | 2019 in Review
$14,442
2019 BUDGETED OPERATING REVENUES AND EXPENSES 2%
5% 4%
11%
1%
Budgeted Operating Revenues Revenue Source
Amount
%
Residential Taxes
$3,613,028
5%
Non-residential Taxes
$3,317,336
4%
Linear Property Taxes
$57,369,636
76%
Other Taxes & Local Improvements
$800,000
1%
Sales of Goods & Services
$8,390,344
11%
Grants
$1,770,302
2%
Other Revenues
$241,020
0%
TOTAL
$75,501,666
76%
5%
11%
32%
Budgeted Operating Expenses Operating Expenses
29%
Amount
%
Transfer To Capital
$17,824,638
24%
Goods & Services
$22,039,080
29%
Salaries, Wages and Benefits
$24,033,370
32%
Debenture Payments
$8,002,669
11%
Community Grants
$3,601,909
5%
TOTAL
$75,501,666
24%
Lac La Biche County | 2019 in Review
27
2019
Utility Services installed
7,700 metres
of polyethylene natural gas lines throughout the County.
in numbers
1,676 KG
CHILD MIND SAW
1,005 PAID DROP-INS.
OF ORGANIC WASTE WAS DIVERTED from landfills, under the Community Organics Recycling and Enhancement backyard composting program.
FITNESS AND RECREATION CLASSES, LEAGUES, CAMPS, AND WORKSHOPS.
STAFF GRADED
1,189 KM OF GRAVEL ROADS
AND
PARENTLINK SERVED 243 FAMILIES.
PLACED
70,000 300 KM.
TONNES OF GRAVEL OVER
DROP-INS
REGISTRATIONS
32 14
1
ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING
campaign, 3 marketing videos were created to promote the County as a Tourism destination.
THE COUNTY RECEIVED
COUNCIL MEETINGS SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETINGS
AS PART OF THE
#TakeItToTheLake
$50,000
112
COUNTY STAFF
are trained in provincial emergency management. With this knowledge, staff can respond to emergency incidents more efficiently.
from the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta. The funds were used to conduct Fire Smart activities, like wood chipping, home assessments, and public wildfire awareness.
$4.7 million IN PROPERTY WAS SAVED DUE TO STRUCTURAL FIREFIGHTING RESPONSE.
