2020
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COUNTY COUNCIL & SENIOR LEADERSHIP
Lac La Biche County’s Vision and Strategic Plan
CAO DIVISION
General Administration Health & Safety Human Resources
FINANCE & PLANNING DIVISION
Disaster Response Economic Development Emergency Management Finance & Grants Fire Services Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Services Planning and Development
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AN OVERVIEW OF THE SPRING FLOODING INCIDENT
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RECREATION AND COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT DIVISION
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What is this document?
Recreation, Aquatics, and Fitness Family & Community Support Services and Community Development Parks & Facilities Enforcement Services
Your County: 2020 In Review looks back on Lac La Biche County’s biggest achievements of the past year. It includes short articles about major projects and events. It also highlights new services and programs that were developed in 2020 that you might not know about. This year was an unusual one for Lac La Biche County, with the COVID-19 pandemic, June 2020 flooding, and ongoing economic slump challenging our community. But residents, staff, and Council proved adaptable and resilient, and we finished 2020 by completing all major construction projects and changing our programming and services to fit our new reality. This document reflects that success, demonstrating that, even when times get tough, the County can pull together and build a rock-solid foundation for the future.
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YEAR IN REVIEW
Why did I receive it?
CORPORATE SERVICES DIVISION
We believe 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.
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COUNTY SUPPORT
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2020 BUDGETED OPERATING REVENUES AND EXPENSES
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2020 BY THE NUMBERS
We believe that there’s value in sharing this information with 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 future.
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Agricultural Services Environmental Services Equipment Services Engineering Services Transportation Services Utility Services Waste & Recycling Management
Communications Information Technology Legislative Services Records & Information Management
Lac La Biche County | 2020 in Review
Lac La Biche County | 2020 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. Please note: this photo was taken before the COVID-19 pandemic and physical distancing protocols were in place.
SENIOR LEADERSHIP 4
Ken Van Buul
Chief Administrative Officer
Dan Small
Associate Chief Administrative Officer, Finance and Planning
Melanie McConnell
Associate Chief Administrative Officer, Corporate Services
Darrell Lessmeister
Associate Chief Administrative Officer, Recreation & Community Services
Brian Shapka
Associate Chief Administrative Officer, Infrastructure Services
Lac La Biche County | 2020 in Review
LAC LA BICHE COUNTY’S VISION AND STRATEGIC PLAN In 2018, Council set a vision for our community: 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 2020, as we set up our community to come out of the COVID-19 pandemic and other challenges stronger than before. In order to meet that vision, Council has set five strategic goals, which help us prioritize our community’s most important projects, programs, and services. Below is a list of those goals, along with some ways that we’ve made progress in each area. 1. Economic Development • TELUS and Lac La Biche County announced a partnership to bring TELUS’ fibre optic network to the region, along with a new cell tower to improve wireless coverage. Beginning in 2020, the County will pay $2,397,000 annually for three years. TELUS expects to begin construction of the fibre network and cellular tower in 2021. 2. Recreation and Culture • Lac La Biche County applied for and received a $6 million Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program grant to build a new Aquatics Centre at the Bold Center. The remaining $9 million will be covered by a combination of provincial Municipal Sustainability Initiative Funding and County tax dollars. • Progress continued on the Bold Center Sports Fields Development. The artificial turf is expected to open in 2021, and work on other features will happen in 2021. 3. Social Wellness • Lac La Biche County established a COVID-19 Response Team, which consists of a variety of County staff who meet regularly to discuss how to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on County services, operations, and our community. The team met 51 times in 2020. • Staff presented a proposed Transitional Housing Program to Council in 2020. They also conducted a Housing and Service Needs Survey—the report will be released in 2021. Staff continued working with community agencies on the unstable housing issue and meeting service needs.
4. Tourism • The #TakeItToTheLake Northeast Regional Collaborative marketing campaign reached 989,000 people and won two awards with the Economic Developers of Alberta. • The Go East of Edmonton Road Trip was a COVID-19 friendly way to promote safe travel to rural and spacious destinations like the Lac La Biche Region. This promotion reached over 300,000 Facebook users and saw 40,000 engagements. 5. Environment • The first draft of the updated Lac La Biche Watershed Management Plan was completed and will be finalized in early 2021. • The County has started its participation in a provincial wetland replacement program, with construction to start in 2021.
To learn more about Council’s vision, be sure to read 2019-2024 Lac La Biche County Strategic Plan, which is available at: www.laclabichecountycom.
Lac La Biche County | 2020 in Review
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CAO
DIVISION
costs, with TELUS covering the remaining 56 per cent. TELUS expects to begin construction of the fibre network and cellular tower in 2021.
General Administration
Plamondon Main Street Paving
COVID-19 Pandemic Lac La Biche County took quick action when the COVID-19 pandemic began. After establishing a COVID-19 Response Team, members of that team and senior leadership explored solutions to lessen the impact of the pandemic on our community and County staff. Staff came up with unique ways to keep the community safe while delivering essential programs and services. Flood/Disaster Mitigation In June, the County was hit with a major flood. While following COVID-19 restrictions that were in place, staff worked long hours to mitigate flood damage, keep residents safe, protect critical infrastructure, and prevent permanent environmental damage. Throughout the year, the County repaired culverts, roads, bridges, and more damaged by the disaster. The County also successfully received Disaster Recovery Program funding from the Province, which will help cover the cost of public infrastructure and private property repairs. Capital Projects While dealing with COVID-19 and mitigating a flood, staff completed all capital projects approved by Lac La Biche County Council. Council approved the development of the Bold Center Sports Fields Phase I and II project in the 2020 budget. It will provide future opportunities for Lac La Biche County to host new events and provide resources to our residents. The County received a $6 million grant from the federal government (the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program) to construct an Aquatics Centre attached to the Bold Center. Construction on this multi-year project will begin in 2021. TELUS and Lac La Biche County announced a partnership to bring TELUS’ fibre optic network to the region, along with a new cell tower to improve wireless coverage. Beginning in 2020, the County will pay $2,397,000 annually for three years. This represents 44 per cent of the capital
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Lac La Biche County | 2020 in Review
Lac La Biche County worked with Alberta Transportation to get Plamondon Main Street (which links Highway 881 and the Caslan Connector south of Plamondon) re-paved in 2020.
Health & Safety Staff implemented a variety of wellness initiatives to keep County staff healthy and motivated, including a retirement information seminar, pedometer challenge, water consumption challenge, and more. Lac La Biche County gave 97 employees Occupational Health & Safety orientation, which teaches staff safe work practices and helps prevent incidents. Staff offered virtual orientations in the last quarter of 2020 to meet COVID-19 restrictions. Health & Safety reviewed and updated emergency response plans for all County buildings and worksites, ensuring that safe procedures are in place in the event of fires or other types of emergency incidents. The department coordinated training for staff, including first aid, defensive driving, material handling safety, leadership for safety excellence, and more.
Human Resources Human Resources assisted all County departments with recruitment, filling 64 regular positions and 45 summer/ seasonal jobs in 2020. During the first 2020 COVID-19 shutdown, 35 employees were repurposed to support the organization’s goals. 13 employees were repurposed during the December 2020 shutdown. Staff updated the County’s recruitment and retention strategy in an effort to reduce turnover and attract well-qualified employees. The County was approved for funding from the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association to complete the Measuring Municipal Inclusion Program, which aims to improve inclusion in Albertan municipalities. After conducting a survey in 2019, the County created an action plan for 2020 and 2021. Staff also organized training from Norquest College in equity, diversity, and inclusion.
FINANCE & PLANNING DIVISION Disaster Response County firefighters assisted with the flooding incident in early June, draining flooded areas, sandbagging, conducting traffic control, evacuating Nashim Drive, and responding to emergency incidents when requested.
Economic Development The #TakeItToTheLake Northeast Regional Collaborative marketing campaign reached 989,000 people and won two awards with the Economic Developers of Alberta. This campaign featured 11 businesses in Lac La Biche County, and promoted our region as a destination to visit and to set up a tourism operation. The Go East of Edmonton Road Trip was a COVID-19 friendly way to promote safe travel to rural and spacious destinations like the Lac La Biche Region. This promotion reached over 300,000 Facebook users and saw 40,000 engagements. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Economic Development attended the International Convention for Shopping Centres, where staff connected with 15 developers and retailers. The department supported businesses through COVID-19 and the spring flooding incident, providing information and resources. They also visited 16 businesses, assisted with the expansion of 3 tourism businesses, saw 1 new tourism-related business open, and engaged with 4 developers regarding Lac La Biche County opportunities. Must Do Canada was a new addition to tourism promotion efforts in 2020—this promotion saw Matthew and Carla sharing authentic experiences in our County, visiting 15 of our local hot spots and eateries. Their audience engagements reached 5,000 people that are unique travelers looking for ‘must do’ things when they travel.
The department completed documents that will support future economic expansion, including a Future Development Planning document, the Economic Development Strategy, a five-year marketing plan, and a bylaw to establish the Economic Development Advisory Committee.
Emergency Management Currently, 125 County staff are trained in provincial emergency management. With this knowledge, staff can respond to emergency incidents (like wildfires, flooding, and more) quickly and efficiently. Lac La Biche County established a COVID-19 Response Team, which consists of a variety of County staff who meet regularly to minimize the impact of COVID-19 on County services, operations, and our community. The team met 51 times in 2020. An Incident Command Post was in operation for the June flooding in the County, where staff dealt with the worst flooding that our region has seen in 100 years. After the flooding, Lac La Biche County successfully applied for provincial Disaster Recovery Program funding, which will allow us to repair damaged public infrastructure and help property owners cover uninsurable flooding-related costs. After this year’s experiences, staff added to the Lac La Biche County Pandemic and Flooding Plans, which supplement the County’s overall emergency plan. Lac La Biche County signed on as a member of the Borderlands Mutual Aid Agreement in 2020. This agreement brings together other municipalities and agencies that provide resources and manpower if a disaster were to occur in our borders. In April 2020, Lac La Biche County’s Emergency Social Services accommodated 65 Fort McMurray residents who had to evacuate homes to flooding in their area. Two County staff members assisted with the Fort McMurray flooding incident.
Lac La Biche County | 2020 in Review
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FINANCE & PLANNING DIVISION Continued
Finance & Grants County Council approved the 2020 budget on December 10, 2019. The operating expense budget was set at $53,202, 885, and the capital budget was $24,002,200. Council also approved the 2021 budget on December 15, 2020. The operating expense budget was set at $55,477,538, and the capital budget was $28,314,034. Non-operating reserve allocations were $5,950,000 (which Council can use to fund projects as they come up throughout the year), and the overall budgeted surplus was $3,735,937. Council’s $5 million fiscal stabilization was not used in 2020, and remains in place. The County received a $6 million grant from the federal government (the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program) to construct an Aquatics Centre attached to the Bold Center. After the spring flooding incident, staff successfully applied for provincial Disaster Recovery Program funding, which will help cover the cost of repairing uninsurable damage to public infrastructure and private residences. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Lac La Biche County received $980,732 in Municipal Operating Support Transfer (MOST) funding. MOST funding was used to address the financial impact of COVID-19 on the municipality.
Fire Services Fire Services currently has 63 members, including full-time administrative staff. Fire Services had 467 calls in 2020. Approximately $3.9 million in property was saved due to structural firefighting response. The department completed 90 FireSmart home assessments, and conducted wood chipping on 65 properties. Staff also cleaned up brush in Blais Resort across 3.7 hectares, which reduces the likelihood of wildfires threatening homes and properties in that area. Staff completed 39 Safety Codes Fire Inspections in 2020. One firefighter recruit class was held in 2020 with 10 successful students (7 probationary firefighters and 3 cadets).
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Lac La Biche County | 2020 in Review
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Services Staff prepared and promoted a public site for the County’s mapping system. Residents can now access the County’s mapping program (MuniSight) to search parcels, confirm zoning, and view aerial images. Staff launched a municipal address verification project, which included in-person confirmation of existing address signs, cross-referenced with our mapping program. Once completed, this work will result in improved addressing (especially in rural areas), making it easier for emergency services to find residences. The department collaborated with Public Works to manage infrastructure assets like roads, culverts, bridges, water lines, sewer, and gas lines. Assets can also include County buildings, recreation equipment, and the water treatment plant. This program will assist staff in preparing for future upgrades, and help ensure that County infrastructure and equipment stays in good working condition.
Planning and Development In 2020, the department processed 142 development permits and 20 subdivision applications. There were 12 rezoning files created, which included passing bylaws and preparing advertisements in accordance with the Municipal Government Act. Staff attended 3 Subdivision and Development Appeal Board Hearings. Staff created simplified planning brochures to provide residents with quick reference guides on the County’s development process. The following brochures can be found on our website: New Construction: Dwellings and Additions, Home-Based Businesses, Garages & Sheds, and Decks, Fences and Retaining Walls. Staff prepared a draft Environmental Reserve Bylaw based on the information and feedback received from numerous public engagement sessions and a Council workshop. Staff are gathering more public feedback before it returns to Council for first reading. Council and Administration updated the Land Use Bylaw with a variety of amendments throughout the year to help streamline the development process and keep the Bylaw current by aligning with the Municipal Government Act. Planning & Development collaborated with several departments to assist with projects. These included the Airport Master Plan and Area Structure Plan (led by Transportation Services) and the Future Development Workshop (led by Economic Development). In February 2020, the County transferred the collection and issuing of all safety codes permits to The Inspections Group, Inc. They now process all new applications and payments online and through their office. Planning & Development staff continue to monitor and follow up with issued permits.
Multi-sport field.
Construction on the sports fields project at the Bold Center
Lac La Biche County | 2020 in Review
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AN OVERVIEW OF LAC LA BICHE COUNTY’S SPRING FLOODING INCIDENT Jon Skjersven, Utilities Manager, Lac La Biche County How it started It all started on June 1, 2020, with drainage issues at the back of the Beaver Lake subdivision. The County has a short section of storm sewer that directs storm water into Beaver Lake. However, beavers in the area jammed a 24-inch pipe full of logs, which caused water buildup by private properties. In two days, we received approximately 47 mm of rain, which did not help the situation. The County had to excavate the storm pipe, cut it open, and manually remove the log jam. At the same time, the rest of region had just finished going through the spring thaw. The ground was already saturated. It rained continuously, and the County began having issues with lift stations keeping up due to the massive increase in ground water infiltrating manholes and house weeping tiles connected to the sewer. Staff had three vacuum trucks assisting at the Beaver Lake Lift Station just to keep up. The East, McGrane, and Sunset Bay lift stations were all operating at maximum capacity due to the amount of ground water infiltration we were receiving. On top of all that, the Main Lift Station (which the County’s sewer system gathers to then pumps to the wastewater plant) was running at maximum capacity. That station was pumping approximately 250 liters per second and, for a period, not keeping up. The Main Lift Station is located along Red Deer Brook on the west side of the hamlet of Lac La Biche and, due to culvert restrictions under the CN tracks and Highway 55, the water levels began to rise dangerously close to the lift station. Staff were also dealing with localized flooding in different areas within both the hamlets of Lac La Biche and Plamondon, which required the County to open culverts and storm sewer drains, and to use pumps to move water faster. Rain, rain, go away It stopped raining on June 2, which allowed the County’s systems time to catch up. All the lift stations stabilized, most of the localized flood water went away and the Beaver Lake area was draining better. Water levels along the Red Deer Brook stopped rising, but remained quite high. We recognized that the culverts crossing Highway 55 west of Lac La Biche were a major restriction so, in conjunction with Alberta Transportation, the decision was made to install some culverts on top of the highway and build a temporary ramp over the culverts. These culverts would be used to run discharge hose across the road. Pumps were set up to start moving water over the highway towards Nashim Drive and Lac La Biche Lake.
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Lac La Biche County | 2020 in Review
Just when the situation seemed resolved, on June 4, 2020, it rained another 20 mm. This caused the water levels in the Red Deer Brook to rise, which flooded over the bypass road running parallel to the brook. We needed to move the water faster. The County began sourcing pumps from multiple areas in the province to assist. On June 5, 2020, at approximately 2 am, we started receiving the first batch of pumps. These were eight and ten-inch pumps rated to move a high volume of water. The County immediately went to work setting up twelve of these pumps along the highway and, by June 6, we started to see the water levels drop along Red Deer Brook. In these two days, it only rained 10 mm, and we were optimistic that we had a handle on the situation. The morning of June 7 came, and it started raining yet again. We began to have issues at all previous locations. The County had vacuum trucks working at multiple locations to assist with the levels in the lift stations. The stations were again struggling to keep up. The County advised the public to reduce water use to lessen the strain on sewer infrastructure. The County and Province were now beginning to have more issues with roads washing out and flood water running over all major highways within our County. Giving the main station a lift The Red Deer Brook levels kept rising. We recognized that the culvert under the CN tracks by the Main Lift Station was restricting flow, and the water levels were now at the point that water was higher than manholes in the area. We had to act fast. The Main Lift Station was not going to keep up and, if that station failed, water was going to end up in the basements of hamlet of Lac La Biche residents. The County hired contractors to do whatever was necessary to stop the infiltration into the manholes. They installed large culverts over the top of the manholes and hauled dirt to make berms in several areas. The County also installed more pumps in the Main Lift Station to keep up with the infiltration, pumping into open top tanks while vac trucks and large tanker trucks hauled to the lagoons. The County had to move pumps from the highway over to the Main Lift station to start pumping water over the tracks. However, it just kept raining, and we were losing ground. The access road to the wastewater plant was now washed out. That meant we were no longer able to use vacuum trucks to haul to the lagoons. We tried installing matting, but it just floated away. The lagoons were getting close to maximum capacity as well, and
a breach of the berms would be a major environmental disaster. The flood water level rose to within a half inch of the top of the lift station well, and the water levels were getting dangerously close to the power supply of the pumps. Any closer would’ve meant that it would not be safe to run anymore—staff were contemplating having to shut the station down. A state of local emergency On June 7, 2020, at 8:38 pm, Lac La Biche County declared a State of Local Emergency. At approximately 10 pm, as several County staff, Alberta Transportation and contractors continued to fight the rising waters, the CN tracks washed out, allowing the water levels to go down around the lift station. That offered some relief, but had a negative effect downstream. Due to the sheer amount of water moving towards Lac La Biche Lake, the water began running over Highway 55. Nashim Bridge washed out and was no longer usable. We had to evacuate homes in the Nashim Drive area due to the flooding and fastmoving water. It rained 51 mm on this day. The tracks washing out took pressure off the sewer system, so staff were able to direct efforts in other areas. Multiple calls were received about basements flooding from ground water. The County provided sandbags to residents and assisted where needed. On June 8, 2020, every highway connected to the hamlet of Lac La Biche was closed due to flooding. Highways 36, 55, 63, and 881 all had water flowing on the surface. Many gravel
roads washed out completely, stranding residents. Campsites were evacuated and work began to regain access to a large area of our County. Claude Lake (east of Lac La Biche) was threatening homes due to high water levels. Several bridges across the County were also compromised. At one point, the only way to get to the airport from Lac La Biche was all the way around through Christy Creek. County staff and contractors worked around the clock over the next few days pumping water, replacing culverts, repairing bridges and building temporary access to certain areas. We also received several calls regarding lakeshore properties’ banks washing away due to the rising lake level and run-off. Over a period of eight days, we had 154 mm (6 inches) of rain and it took huge efforts from everyone to minimize the damages that resulted. On June 11, 2020, the County rescinded the State of Local Emergency—the situation began to stabilize. County crews worked for most of the summer repairing the damage that occurred, and there are still many deficiencies being repaired. Unity amidst disaster However, this flood did help us identify weaknesses in our infrastructure which we can now address. And the way that staff, contractors, Council, and residents came together to deal with the issue showed how strong and united our community can be, even in the face of an unprecedented disaster.
Lac La Biche County | 2020 in Review
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RECREATION AND COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT DIVISION Recreation, Aquatics & Fitness Memberships and Guest Services
Aquatics
All-access drop-in pass sales totaled 5,702. Staff sold 2,580 memberships. A few new membership types were offered, including Super Senior (70+) and Matinee passes.
7,500 patrons visited Portage Pool for the 7 months that the Pool was opened in 2020. There were 239 participants in swim lessons, and 24 who took leadership courses.
Eight companies participated in the corporate membership program, with approximately 81 individual and family corporate members.
Staff added new swim times, including family and seniors’ times, to the drop-in pool schedule. Staff planned a variety of events and collaborations to expand Portage Pool’s offerings, including: • A Halloween Dive-In Movie event; • Weekly water safety videos and messaging for community education; • Two presentations to high school classes; • Collaborations with FCSS to host a splash dance and CPR courses; and • A collaboration with a neighbouring municipality to offer a national lifeguarding course.
County recreation facilities were closed due to COVID-19 from March 16 to July 1, 2020. Staff took this time to complete maintenance and other upkeep activities ahead of schedule. The Bold Center reopened with reduced hours on July 2, and Portage Pool reopened with reduced hours on August 6. Both resumed regular operating hours on September 8, but had to close again to the public on December 13, 2020 due to provincial COVID-19 regulations. County staff updated our recreation & parks management software to PerfectMind. This resulted in an online portal that customers can use to register for fitness classes and other County programs (boldcenter. ca/activellbc/).
Fitness 101 fitness classes and workshops were offered with 305 registered participants, 293 paid drop-ins, and 52 fitness 10-pass users. To adapt to COVID-19, 6 weeks of free virtual fitness classes were held in the spring, and had over 100 participants. New program offerings for preschool-aged children and youth included DancePl3y and YogaPl3y, which were
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Lac La Biche County | 2020 in Review
held again by popular demand. Personal training clientele and revenue doubled compared to last year, with 18 consultations, 9 program packages, and 12 multi-sessions processed. 4,981 users accessed the Canadian Natural Walking Track free of charge. 46 Prescription to Get Active (RxTGA) program referrals were filled, allowing residents who were given a prescription from their doctor to improve their fitness to access County recreation facilities free of charge. A wide range of clients who never accessed County facilities before, from young children to seniors, were able to get fit and improve their health.
added this year, too. The free Summer Shack recreation program for children was offered in a modified form at two sites to meet COVID-19 restrictions. The program ran Monday to Thursday with 453 participants throughout the summer. Community feedback was very positive: after months of being cooped up, it was important for kids to get outside, be active, and connect with peers in a structured, safe setting.
Staff introduced a healthy alternative to Halloween candy with “Trick or Play Passes,” which allowed residents to give passes to the Bold Center for children or youth. Staff sold 100 books of passes at $10 each.
Despite special events needing to be modified to meet COVID-19 restrictions, three drive-in movies were offered (two at the Bold Center, and one at the Festival Centre in Plamondon) with strong attendance. Alberta Culture Days was modified to offer kids’ art workshops, including preschool art, drawing classes for school-aged kids, and a puppet-making workshop and show. The annual Spooktacular Halloween event was also modified, but accommodated 160 participants (25 people at a time), who enjoyed the “witches and wizards” themed event.
Community Programming and Events
Community Partnerships
24 recreation programs, leagues, camps, and workshops were offered, with 253 participants. New program offerings included arts and sports camps, pickleball, Jammers (basketball), Active Kids, Art Start, and Art Adventures. As COVID-19 measures were implemented, programs continued to be offered with lower numbers to support physical distancing.
A Cenovus Energy grant was secured to purchase equipment for new arts and culture programming.
Drop-in opportunities such as open ice, adult basketball, adult soccer, and racquet sports continue to be community favourites. A new family lacrosse drop-in was
Recreation partnered with Kidsport and the Lac La Biche Minor Ball Association to offer a youth baseball camp with 20 participants. Portage College provided the Bold Center with six spin bikes for general users as fitness classes were full, and all spin bikes were in use.
LAC LA BICHE COUNTY AND TELUS PARTNER TO MAKE REGION A LEADER IN RURAL CONNECTIVITY On March 7, 2020, TELUS and Lac La Biche County announced a partnership to bring TELUS’ fibre optic network to the region, along with a new cell tower to improve wireless coverage. The project will make the County a leader among municipalities in bringing state-of-the-art connectivity to rural Alberta. Beginning in 2020, the County will pay $2,397,000 annually for three years. This represents 44 per cent of the capital costs, with TELUS covering the remaining 56 per cent. TELUS expects to begin construction of the fibre network and cellular tower in 2021. Once homes are connected, residents can immediately begin taking advantage of dramatically faster Internet speeds.
Participants at “Salad in a Jar” workshop
Lac La Biche County | 2020 in Review
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The Community Access Bus Service provided 1,720 trips to 167 individuals, including the delivery of prescriptions to Paratransit Bus users during the lockdown. In 2020, FCSS dispersed $53,595 in grants. FCSS also assisted three organizations in accessing COVID-19 emergency social services funding for a total of $85,230. Due to pandemic protocols, some approved FCSS grant funding was returned, and other programs that typically request funds did not apply.
Participants of the Lac La Biche Biking Group
Family & Community Support Services (FCSS) and Community Development FCSS had 2,015 children, adults, and seniors register for programs. Overall, 5,151 participants were in more than 60 programs throughout 2020. Staff conducted wellness calls to all registered families and individuals from April to May, and again in December, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.Seniors’ Aquafit
The Northern Lakes Family Resource Network started April 1, 2020. Staff presented a proposed Transitional Housing Program to Council in 2020. They also conducted a Housing and Service Needs Survey—the report will be released in 2021. Staff continued working with community agencies on the unstable housing issue and meeting service needs. FCSS staff responded to three emergencies in 2020. They helped people access emergency supports due to flooding in both Lac La Biche County and Fort McMurray— Lac La Biche County people were contacted to offer help from the Red Cross and the provincial Disaster Relief Program. FCSS also assisted with an apartment fire evacuation.
LAC LA BICHE COUNTY FCSS TESTIMONIALS: FCSS Programming Many residents find value in Lac La Biche County’s Family & Community Support Services’ (FCSS) programs, which is a partnership with the County and Government of Alberta that supports preventative social services in our community. Here are some words that residents had for FCSS services, along with the County’s Paratransit Bus service: “Being new to the community and arriving during a worldwide pandemic was not easy. Finding the FCSS programs helped our family and our young daughter integrate into the community. We have all made amazing friends and I owe this to programs like Art in the Park, Tumble Kids, Kids Fall Club and so much more. Thank you for everything that you all do. An amazing organization.” “If it weren’t for FCSS this pandemic would have consumed me and I probably would have fallen into a pit of post-partum depression. I can’t say thank you enough to them and all the hard work they’ve done since the very beginning of the pandemic. In March when everything closed, they worked double time to deliver services through Zoom and online, and even just making phone calls to make sure every family knew we were supported. It means more than you can possibly know.” “Just a quick email to thank you so, so much for getting my mother-in-law for a visit home today. She has had hardly any visitors at the hospital since it’s restricted to two or three people that can go visit her, so today she got to see her brother, her sister, her son, and her grandchildren. Our family was so impressed with the paratransit service, right from when my sister-in-law called George for the appointment yesterday to Lisa’s wonderful service today. Honestly, thanks so much from our family.” Young Family Connections Lac La Biche County’s Family & Community Support Services Young Family Connections Programming provides supports to parents with young children (aged 0 to 6 years). Here’s what one user has to say about the program:
Child Mind
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“Thank you Young Family Connections for all that you do! Lifesavers... especially during this pandemic. You guys are such an amazing support for families in our County! So incredibly grateful for all that you do. Your team truly cares and we have felt that deeply especially during these challenging times. The children’s programming is so wonderful for our children’s development and the parenting classes are a gem. To me, you are a HUGE PART of the heart of what keeps this community alive. Can’t thank you enough... truly appreciate all that you do for us and how much you care!”
Lac La Biche County | 2020 in Review
Parks & Facilities Staff removed the pier at Plamondon Whitesands resort, and opened the revamped Holowachuk Estates Boat Launch. They also completed construction on the Poplar Point Boat Launch. Parks & Facilities built picnic shelters at the Old Trail Boat Launch and the Lac La Biche Lake waterfront. Staff created the “Skate the Lake” trail on Lac La Biche Lake in December, which proved to be a very popular family activity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Parks & Facilities took advantage of the shutdown time of County recreation facilities, completing Bold Center, Plamondon Arena, and Portage Pool cleanup by disposing of expired assets and auctioning reusable assets.
Staff decorating the Bold Center for the Christmas Season
Skate the Lake, a popular new skating trail along Lac La Biche Lake set up by County staff
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Enforcement Services (Community Peace Officers) Enforcement Services responded to and conducted 2,885 investigations and issued 448 violation tickets for provincial and municipal bylaw offences. Peace Officers also dealt with 139 Public Health Act/COVID-19 related complaints. Officers conducted regular patrols of the County, which includes rural subdivision areas and the hamlets of Lac La Biche and Plamondon. Officers travelled 255,130 km throughout the year for patrols and complaint responses.
DID YOU KNOW? The Northern Lakes Family Resource Network (FRN) started April 1, 2020. Lac La Biche County’s popular “It Takes a Village” parenting series is a part of that network, and the FRN provides other parent and caregiver educational opportunities to help parents learn how to support their children’s development.
In 2020, Peace Officers conducted 1,313 traffic stops for various traffic-related offences, including 16 impaired driver investigations. Peace Officers also initiated 22 investigations that pertained to thefts, such as vehicles and other stolen property. The new Law Enforcement Training Program began offering training courses for law enforcement officers in October 2020. In total, 41 officers were trained in topics like shotgun training for animal control, speed measurement, and the appropriate use of force.
County Peace Officers escort Santa and the Grinch for a mini holiday parade
2020 speed measurement training (LiDAR/RADAR), held as part of the County’s Law Enforecement Training Program, involving law enforcement officers from across the province
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Lac La Biche County | 2020 in Review
Picnic Shelter on Lac La Biche Lake waterfront
Pickleball at the Bold Center
Children participating in DancePl3y
Outdoor fitness at the Bold Center
Lac La Biche County | 2020 in Review
17
INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES DIVISION Agricultural Services More than 4,400 km of roadside vegetation was mowed alongside County roads, ditches, and right-of-ways, with some areas getting a second pass. This is 178.7% higher than 2019’s numbers. In total, 551 beavers were trapped, which is 85.5% higher than 2019. The Agricultural Services Board’s equipment was rented out to 60 ratepayers for a combined total of 230 days, compared to just 120 days in 2019 (91.7% higher in 2020). Due to the excessive rain that resulted in flooding, Council declared a state of agricultural disaster in Lac La Biche County on June 12, 2020. Administration met with local producers, the Agricultural Services Board, elected officials, and provincial ministers to discuss potential solutions to the issue. Staff completed over 500 weed inspections on public and private lands (575.7% higher than 2019), with 6 weed notices issued. The County also inspected 28 canola fields to prevent the spread of clubroot disease. One field tested positive in 2020.
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Lac La Biche County | 2020 in Review
Environmental Services Under the Community Organics and Recycling Enhancement (CORE) Program, 796 kg of organic waste was diverted from landfills in 2020. The first draft of the updated Lac La Biche Watershed Management Plan was completed and will be finalized in early 2021. The water quality monitoring program included lake (21 sampling events), beach (7 sampling events), and inflow/outflow sample (5 sampling events) to measure lake health in the County. Reports were completed on lake health for Lac La Biche Lake, Beaver Lake, Elinor Lake, and Fork Lake. The County has started its participation in a provincial wetland replacement program, with construction to start in 2021.
Equipment Services Equipment Services continued to provide everyday repair and maintenance of the County’s 300+ item fleet of vehicles and equipment. The County Centre repair shop routinely maintains fire trucks, fleet vehicles, heavy equipment, heavy trucks, trailers, and small equipment.
The County purchased the following new and replacement equipment in 2020, among other purchases necessary for delivering services: • • • •
12 pickup trucks 1 wheel loader 1 plow truck 1 land roller for the Agricultural Services Board rental fleet
Staff added two hybrid SUVs to the County’s fleet. Compared to similar vehicles, they reduce fuel consumption by 60 to 70 per cent. The County had scheduled an auction in May 2020, but it was cancelled due to COVID-19. In its place, staff listed items on an online auction site, which has been a successful replacement. Using the site www.govdeals.ca, staff have been able to list surplus equipment and items throughout the year, rather than all at once. Staff completed the installation of the new shop crane in April 2020, and the County’s new wash bay became fully functional. The final phase of the County Centre repair shop addition was started this past year, and is expected completed by September 2021. Once done, this area will provide much-needed space for County repair shop employees and field staff.
CONSTRUCTION SPOTLIGHT: TOWNSHIP ROAD 682A PAVING As part of the County’s effort to improve access to residential subdivisions, paving Township Road 682A was one of 2020’s biggest construction projects. Township Road 682A is the only access road to the Mystic Beach Subdivision, and home to over 200 year-round and seasonal residents. Work included extensive approvals, negotiations, utility realignments, clearing, mulching, and reworking of the road’s structure for paving. See page 23 for photos of this project.
The department continues to work with local schools to provide placement for work experience and registered apprentice program (RAP) students.
Lac La Biche County | 2020 in Review
19
Engineering Services (Major Capital Projects) All of Engineering Services’ planned construction projects were completed ahead of schedule in 2020. Projects that were under budget allowed for new projects to be started.
• Bayview Beach Subdivision Water and Sewer Installation. Engineering work is complete. • 95 Street Water Distribution and Storm Sewer. Engineering work is in progress. • Sentinel Park Water and Sewer Installation/Airport Reservoir Upgrades (Sentinel East Storm Pond). Engineering work is in progress. • Stormwater Master Plan Revision. Engineering work is in progress.
Major Completed Capital Projects • Paving of the Plamondon/Caslan Connector (north section), completing Range Road 162 from Highway 55 to Highway 663. • Lakeview Crescent Utilities and 99 Street Surface Rehabilitation Project: this two-year project is now complete, with minor work to follow in summer 2021. • The Plamondon Highway 858 Water and Sewer Servicing Extension, from the bridge to 104 Avenue. • Repair of Bridge File 75684 (Imperial Mills) to original build status. • Replacement of Bridge File 294 (Rich Lake). • Replacement of Bridge File 9799 (Christy Creek). • Paving of 104 Street in Lac La Biche, completing this carry-over project from 2019. • Water and sewer installation of Mission Subdivision Phase 3, finalizing this multi-year project. • Hamlet Resurfacing and Sidewalk Replacement Programs in the hamlets of Lac La Biche and Plamondon. 2020 Carry-Over Projects (projects that will be carried over into 2021) • County Centre Shop Expansion: Connector Building. • Bridge File 77865 Campsite Road. • Highway 881 Crosswalk Lighting. • County Centre Parking Lot and Yard Extension. • Protective Services Facility Parking Lot – Paving and Drainage.
Transportation Services Transportation Services graded 1,189 km of gravel roads in 2020. As part of the annual road re-gravelling program, staff placed 97,000 tonnes of gravel over 400 km of roads. They also completed 50 km of shoulder pulling in the Rich Lake area and replaced 157 culverts. To improve safety, the department changed out and installed over 180 road signs. Staff sealed cracks along 121 km of paved roads and resurfaced 5 km of oil roads. Staff also patched potholes and made other minor road touch-ups along 162 km of paved roads. Transportation Services completed 243 residential dust suppression requests, as well as dust suppression along key intersections and designated gravel haul routes. Transportation Services helped with a variety of capital projects in 2020, including the Airport Lighting Extension project. They also began work on an Airport Master Plan, which will guide how the Lac La Biche Airport is managed and developed. During the emergency flooding in June, staff responded to and repaired 77 washouts. They completed maintenance on eight bridges that were affected by the flood.
Engineering Projects (projects that have had engineering completed, but that have not started construction) • Installation of two new lift stations in Plamondon. Engineering work is in progress. • Subdivision Resurfacing Program for five subdivisions: Young’s Beach, Sunset Bay, Pleasant Acres, John Martin, and Golden Sands. Engineering work is complete for all five subdivisions. • Bridge Replacement Program for the following bridge files (BF): BF 79415 (Range Road 153), BF 72757 (Missawawi Creek), BF 74197 (Old 46), and BF 13640 (Nashim Drive). Engineering work is in progress. • Revitalization of Lac La Biche Main Street. Engineering work is in progress. • 101 Avenue Water and Sewer Replacement (100 Street to 105 Street). Engineering work is complete.
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Lac La Biche County | 2020 in Review
The bridge deck of bridge file 9799 (Christy Creek)
CAPITAL PROJECTS 104 St. Paving
Plamondon-Caslan Connector - North Section
Hamlet Resurfacing - Plamondon Main St.
Lac La Biche County | 2020 in Review
21
Utility Services
Waste & Recycling Management
Utilities staff assisted with the completion and inspection of Phase 3 of the Lakeview Crescent Water and Sewer capital project.
From January 1 to December 31, 2020, the County received approximately 2,135 tonnes of recycling material at the Beaver Lake and Plamondon landfills. Approximately 248 tonnes of recycling at the landfills was sent to off-site recycling facilities, and we are currently holding 1,887 tonnes of recycling at landfills to send off-site in the future.
The department successfully obtained Manitok Energy pipelines and regulation stations east of Lac La Biche with the approval of the Alberta Energy Regulator. The pipelines will drastically reduce the risk of natural gas outages in the County’s distribution system. Staff dedicated themselves to protecting sewer infrastructure and public property throughout Lac La Biche County during the 2020 flooding incident. The department also rerouted multiple natural gas mains that were at risk from washouts, flooding, and ground erosion during the 2020 flood. Utilities assisted with the installation of a new turbidity meter at the Airport Reservoir. This turbidity meter will allow them to monitor the water quality more efficiently throughout the distribution system.
The Beaver Lake Landfill Site Reconfiguration project was completed. It included a new site entrance with a larger scale, new bin area, and new office. The Plamondon Landfill Site Reconfiguration project was also completed, and included a new scale. The Transfer Stations at Owl River, Hylo, and Craigend received power and new offices to make sites more efficient, address safety issues, and align with regulations. Construction on the new compost pad at the Beaver Lake Landfill was started, and will be completed in 2021.
Bio train repairs have been successfully completed at the wastewater treatment plant. The plant is now operating at full capacity.
The “What Goes Where” document was updated for the public to provide information on the Curbside Pickup Program, along with the landfills and transfer stations.
Lac La Biche County residents showed increased interest in the Green Rebate Program, and have been purchasing high-efficiency appliances to reduce water, natural gas, and power consumption.
The County updated the Waste & Recycling Management Bylaw, which includes new tipping fees. More information will be shared with the public in 2021, along with timelines for the new fees to come into effect.
Staff rolled out the backflow preventer subsidy program. This program provides financial assistance to homes within the hamlets that do not already have a sewer backflow preventer.
County Centre shop expansion
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Lac La Biche County | 2020 in Review
Completed Township Road 682A
Township Road 682A in the midst of construction
Lac La Biche County | 2020 in Review
23
CORPORATE SERVICES DIVISION Communications Staff launched the SeeClickFix app, which allows residents to report issues like potholes, downed street signs, and damaged playground equipment, then watch as County staff follow up. The County’s local emergency alerting system was implemented in collaboration with Enforcement Services. The system allows the County to directly inform residents about wildfires, floods, and other situations that may affect them. Communications refreshed the County’s internal intranet website, making it a much more effective tool for sharing information and encouraging interdepartmental collaboration. Work also began on refreshing the Lac La Biche County public website, and it should be launched in 2021. Staff participated in the 2020 flooding incident, sharing information with residents via social media, the website, and Alberta Emergency Alerts to ensure that the public was well-informed of the situation.
Information Technology
Legislative Services provided support for 31 Regular Council Meetings, 15 Special Council Meetings, and one Organizational Meeting, preparing meeting agendas, recording minutes, and other activities. Staff also booked and coordinated 22 delegations, eight public hearings, and four Subdivision and Development Appeal Board hearings in 2020. Staff provided electronic meeting management support to internal committees, allowing them to continue meeting safely during the pandemic. They also managed recruitment campaigns for internal boards, committees, and commissions, ensuring that they have the members they need to accomplish their goals. The department received 17 Freedom of Information & Protection of Privacy Act requests, and completed 16. Legislative Services drafted and presented a number of important policies and bylaws, including the Temporary Face Covering Policy, Election Bylaw, the Ward Open House Policy, and Webcasting Council Meetings Policy. Staff held 14 Policy Review Committees in 2020 to ensure that policies are kept current and useful for meeting County goals.
Records & Information Management Staff presented the final draft of the Information Governance Program and integrated Records and Information Management Program to the Policy Manual Update Committee, which will guide and standardize how the County keeps its records and information.
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.
Staff scanned and inventoried 3,265 documents that included drawings, plans, surveys, and maps. These are vital records that are historically relevant, and scanning ensures they are protected in the event of a disaster. Hundreds of utility drawings and maps were indexed and scanned to improve accessibility.
Staff collaborated with other departments on a variety of projects, including moving Fire Services’ two-way radio communications to AFRRCS (which is a more effective system for communicating during emergency incidents).
Records & Information Management staff supported the County’s COVID-19 Response Team and participated in the emergency operations centre responding to spring flooding.
Staff also implemented the new Council meeting streaming software and migrated the Bold Center to new customer service registration software.
Legislative Services Staff implemented the eSCRIBE livestream and voting module, which allowed Council to hold safer meetings during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Lac La Biche County | 2020 in Review
The department completed more than 300 search requests for County Administration and the public. Staff assisted with the integration of SeeClickFix, which allows citizens to report issues to County staff and see when they’ve been followed up on.
COUNTY SUPPORT In 2020, 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* *Final grant paid to organization may vary from approved amounts depending on actual project costs.
Organization
Project
Amount Approved
Lac La Biche Regional Humane Society
Funding for New Shelter
$34,000
Craigend Recreational and Agricultural Society
Replace Windows and New Property Clean Up
$6,747
Lac La Biche Art Club 2018 Society
Trailer Purchase to Store and Transport Club Supplies
$5,897
Historical Chapelle Society of Plamondon
Enclosing Foul Weather Shelter and Install Electricity
$11,700
Hylo/Venice Recreation and Agricultural Society
Curling Club Repairs
$3,500
Phillip Menard Cultural Centre (ACFA)
Necessary Upgrades
$18,343
Plamondon Seniors Rendez-Vous Centre
Seniors Kitchen Renovation
$150,310
Owl River Recreation Association
Exterior Wall Repairs
$33,513
Owl River Recreation Association
Repair/Replace Roof
$44,260
Owl River Recreation Association
Insulation Upgrades
$5,693
Mini Heritage Park
Construction of Miniature Replicas
$22,700
2020 Total:
$336,663
Community Development Grant Program Organization
Project/Funded Activity
Amount Approved
Lakeland Out of the Elements Shelter
Operational Funding
$51,319
Lac La Biche Canadian Native Friendship Centre
Operational/Program Funding
$42,656
Community Learning for Adult Students Society (PAL)
Operational Funding
$39,779
Hope Haven Society
Operating Funding
$16,246
Victim Services Unit*
Operational Funding
$15,000
2020 Total: *Third year of funding as part of a 3-year term funding agreement approved in 2018.
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Lac La Biche County | 2020 in Review
$165,000
Event Sponsorship Grant Program*
*Final grant paid to organization may vary from approved amounts depending on actual project costs. Does not include funding for events which were approved but subsequently cancelled due to COVID.
Organization
Event
Amount Approved
Lac La Biche and District Chamber of Commerce
Festival of Speed
$20,000
Lac La Biche Firefighters Society
Snow Pitch
$2,215
Association Canadienne-Francaise de l’Alberta (ACFA)
Cabane A Sucre
$500
Lac La Biche and District Chamber of Commerce
Parade of Trees
$5,000
2020 Total:
$27,715
Community Cemetery Improvement Program Grants*
*Final grant paid to organization may vary from approved amounts depending on actual project costs.
Organization
Project
Amount Approved
St. Jeanne d’Arc Cemetery
Cemetery Improvements
$18,245
Our Lady of the Snow Cemetery
Cemetery Improvements
$10,000
Mission Cemetery
Cemetery Improvements
$10,000
Protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukranian Catholic Church Cemetery
Cemetery Improvements
$9,004
Grandin Cemetery
Cemetery Improvements
$13,971
2020 Total:
$61,220
Ad-Hoc Funding Grants Organization
Project/Funded Activity
Amount Approved
Lac La Biche Canadian Native Friendship Centre
Food Bank Donation
$250
Event Organizers
Shanelle Twigge Memorial Slo-Pitch Tournament
$500
Lac La Biche Regional Attraction and Retention Society
Rural Health Skills Weekend
$1,600
2020 Total:
$2,350
Lac La Biche County | 2020 in Review
27
Recreational/Cultural Operating Grant Program* *Includes insurance costs paid directly by the County.
Organization
Project
Amount Approved
5HV Club
Operational Funding
$2,297
Craigend Recreation and Agricultural Society
Operational Funding
$40,206
Lac La Biche Heritage Society
Operational Funding
$26,000
Hylo/Venice Recreation and Agricultural Society
Operational Funding
$71,157
Lac La Biche Agricultural Society**
Operational Funding
$61,202
Lac La Biche Mission Historical Society
Operational Funding
$70,000
Owl River Recreation Association
Operational Funding
$22,459
Rich Lake Recreation and Agricultural Society
Operational Funding
$35,500
PDCDS-Camp 3F
Operational Funding
$4,768
PDCDS-Plamondon Curling Club
Operational Funding
$43,600
PDCDS-Plamondon Museum
Operational Funding
$9,722
PDCDS-Mini Heritage Park
Operational Funding
$3,580
PDCDS-Plamondon Seniors Rendez Vous Centre
Operational Funding
$29,645
PDCDS-Phillip Menard Cultural Centre (ACFA)
Operational Funding
$49,925
2020 Total:
$470,061
**Includes power costs paid directly by the County.
Insurance Organization
Project
Amount Approved
Lac La Biche Chamber of Commerce
Insurance
$715
Plamondon Festival Centre (PDCDS)
Insurance
$715
Normandeau Community Centre
Insurance
$1,658
Lac La Biche County Library Board
Insurance
$5,606
Lakeland Interpretive Society
Insurance
$8,874
Little Divide Search and Rescue
Insurance
$4,903
Lac La Biche Pow Wow and Fish Derby Association
Insurance
$715
2020 Total:
$23,185
Other Major Funding Contributions Organization
Project
Amount Approved
Lac La Biche County Library Board
Operational Funding
$588,920
Lakeland Interpretive Society
Operational Funding
$166,250
Rich Lake Recreation and Agricultural Society
Community Hall
$125,000
J.A. Williams High School
Graduation Banners
$4,000
Plamondon Festival Centre (PDCDS)
Baseball Diamond Drainage
$75,000
Plamondon Festival Centre (PDCDS)
Operational Funding
$395,925
2020 Total:
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Lac La Biche County | 2020 in Review
$1,355,095
COVID Relief Support Program*
*Only includes funding approved from November 30, 2020
Organization
Project
Amount Approved
Association Canadienne Francaise de l’Alberta
Incremental COVID expenses and/or Revenue Deficits due to COVID
$1,000
Lac La Biche and District Chamber of Commerce
Incremental COVID expenses and/or Revenue Deficits due to COVID
$1,000
Craigend Recreation and Agricultural Society
Incremental COVID expenses and/or Revenue Deficits due to COVID
$1,000
Lac La Biche Disability Services
Incremental COVID expenses and/or Revenue Deficits due to COVID
$1,000
Lac La Biche Firefighters Society
Incremental COVID expenses and/or Revenue Deficits due to COVID
$1,000
Hope Haven Society
Incremental COVID expenses and/or Revenue Deficits due to COVID
$1,000
Lac La Biche Regional Humane Society
Incremental COVID expenses and/or Revenue Deficits due to COVID
$1,000
Hylo/Venice Recreation and Agricultural Society
Incremental COVID expenses and/or Revenue Deficits due to COVID
$1,000
Kinette Club of Lac La Biche
Incremental COVID expenses and/or Revenue Deficits due to COVID
$1,000
Kinsmen Club of Lac La Biche
Incremental COVID expenses and/or Revenue Deficits due to COVID
$1,000
Lac La Biche Agricultural Society
Incremental COVID expenses and/or Revenue Deficits due to COVID
$1,000
Royal Canadian Legion McGrane Branch No. 28
Incremental COVID expenses and/or Revenue Deficits due to COVID
$1,000
Light of Christ Catholic School
Incremental COVID expenses and/or Revenue Deficits due to COVID
$1,000
Lac La Biche Boxing Club
Incremental COVID expenses and/or Revenue Deficits due to COVID
$1,000
Lac La Biche Mission Historical Society
Incremental COVID expenses and/or Revenue Deficits due to COVID
$1,000
Community Learning for Adult Students Society (PAL)
Incremental COVID expenses and/or Revenue Deficits due to COVID
$968
Plamondon Quilters Club
Incremental COVID expenses and/or Revenue Deficits due to COVID
$1,000
Portage College Athletics Association
Incremental COVID expenses and/or Revenue Deficits due to COVID
$1,000
Plamondon Senior Rendez-Vous Centre
Incremental COVID expenses and/or Revenue Deficits due to COVID
$1,000
Rich Lake Recreation and Agricultural Society
Incremental COVID expenses and/or Revenue Deficits due to COVID
$1,000
Region One Aboriginal Business Association
Incremental COVID expenses and/or Revenue Deficits due to COVID
$1,000
Lac La Biche Junior Soccer Society
Incremental COVID expenses and/or Revenue Deficits due to COVID
$1,000
St. Catherine’s Parish
Incremental COVID expenses and/or Revenue Deficits due to COVID
$1,000
Lac La Biche Triumphant Life Centre
Incremental COVID expenses and/or Revenue Deficits due to COVID
$1,000
William J. Cadzow Hospital Auxiliary
Incremental COVID expenses and/or Revenue Deficits due to COVID
$1,000
2020 Total:
$24,968
Lac La Biche County | 2020 in Review
29
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Lac La Biche County | 2020 in Review
2020 BUDGETED OPERATING REVENUES AND EXPENSES
Budgeted Operating Revenues Revenue Source
Amount
%
Residential Taxes
$3,810,600
5%
Non-residential Taxes
$3,175,500
4%
Linear Property Taxes
$56,523,900
77%
Other Taxes & Local Improvements
$200,000
<1%
Sales of Goods & Services
$7,518,512
10%
Grants
$1,690,602
2%
Other Revenues
$222,019
<1%
TOTAL
$73,141,133
Budgeted Operating Expenses Operating Expenses
%
$19,938,248
27%
Goods & Services
$20,219,302
28%
Salaries, Wages and Benefits
$24,719,133
34%
Debenture Payments
$5,209,926
7%
Community Grants
$3,054,524
4%
TOTAL
Amount
Transfer To Capital
$73,141,133
Lac La Biche County | 2020 in Review
31
2020 BY THE NUMBERS
$6 MILLION grant from the federal Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program to construct a new Aquatics Centre near the Bold Center.
2,580
Recreation memberships sold. Fire Services responded to
467
796 kg
calls, resulting in $3.9 million in saved property.
of organic waste diverted from landfills under the Community Organics and Recycling Enhancement (CORE) program.
4,400 km of roadside vegetation was mowed.
178.7% more than 2019!
142
Development Permits
5,151 participants in more than
60
Family & Community Support Services programs.
&
2,885
20
Subdivision Applications
processed by Planning and Development.
investigations and call responses by Peace Officers.