December 2023
TABLE OF CONTENTS 2024 BUDGET 2 KINOSOO RIDGE UPDATES 3 DON’T CROWD THE PLOW 8 ICE SAFETY 9 OH CHRISTMAS TREE 10
2024 BUDGET
Council Passes 2024 Budget with 2.21 Per Cent Increase Budget includes construction of new Cherry Grove Fire Hall
At its Regular Meeting of Council, December 12, 2023, Council approved the 2024 Operating Budget and 2024 Capital Plan. In 2024, M.D. property owners can expect to see a 2.21 per cent increase in the municipal portion of their tax bill. “In a year where we’ve seen inflation for goods and services range anywhere from five to eight per cent, we are considering this a modest increase to continue offering our ratepayers the high-level of service they have come to expect,” said Reeve Barry Kalinski. In its report, Administration explained the increase would equate to an increase of about $31.70 on an average residential tax bill. Following four days of deliberation in November, the 2024 Operating Budget is set at just over $56.8 million, with the Capital Budget coming in at just over $16.3 million. The Capital Budget includes expenditures related to the Cherry Grove Fire Hall of $5.5 million and roads projects totalling $4.45 million. The 2024 tax rate will be passed in May, after the M.D. has received the annual requisitions for school taxes, Lakeland Lodge and Housing, and the Greater North Foundation lodging.
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KINOSOO RIDGE RESORT
SNOW GROOMING, DECEMBER 2023
Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow! While we’ve all been enjoying warmer than usual temperatures, the snowmakers at Kinosoo Ridge Resort have been working hard to make sure the ski, snowboard, and tube season wasn’t delayed. Staff started making snow October 23, taking advantage of temperatures dipping just below zero. By making snow when the sun wasn’t shining and stockpiling it, Kinosoo Ridge enjoyed its earliest snow season opening during the first weekend in December. Heralded as one of the busiest opening days in years, snow enthusiasts flocked to the resort to enjoy the Tube Park, Bunny Hill, and the runs coming off the Blue Chairlift. With the ongoing lack of snow, Kinosoo snowmakers are still working away to create even more snow to get the runs on the Green Chair up and running. Stay in the know by following Kinosoo Ridge on their socials. Updates about programs, winter camps, and operations are posted weekly. @SkiKinosooRidge
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KINOSOO RIDGE RESORT
Winter Camp extravaganza at Kinosoo Ridge! As the crisp air announces the arrival of winter, Kinosoo Ridge Resort is in full swing offering a season brimming with elevated adventures. This year, we’re not just embracing the cold; we’re turning it into an exhilarating playground for all ages!
WINTER CAMPS BETTER THAN EVER!
Discover the perfect Christmas gift! Finding the perfect Christmas gifts can be a challenge. This year, consider giving the gift of adventure and unforgettable experiences with Kinosoo Ridge Resort’s unique offerings. One of the best gifts you can offer to your loved ones is our gift card. Available in denominations of $25, $50, and $100, these gift cards provide the flexibility to choose from a range of exciting activities and amenities at the resort. Whether it’s for an avid skier, a snowboarding enthusiast, or someone looking to enjoy a day in the winter wonderland (and the Tube Park), these gift cards cater to skills and experience preferences.
Our Winter Camps are back and better than ever, offering a variety of experiences for every young snow enthusiast. From the thrill of our Tube ‘n Teach Camp to the skillbuilding Shred ‘n Teach Camp, we’ve got the perfect blend of fun and learning. • TUBE ‘N TEACH CAMP - Combine the joy of tubing with skiing or snowboarding lessons, along with rentals, a lift ticket, and even lunch. It’s a whirlwind of winter fun! • SHRED ‘N TEACH CAMP - Tailored for kids aged six to 12 (ski) and seven to 12 (snowboard), this camp hones their skills on the slopes with a two-hour lesson, rental equipment, and a lift ticket. • WINTER CAMP - This camp includes everything you need for a perfect winter experience – three days of rentals, lift tickets, and ski/snowboard lessons (two hours each day).
For families seeking a special gift for their children, we present the ultimate opportunity – the gift of experience! Our Winter Camps are tailored to ignite a love for winter sports and the outdoors in young hearts. Giving a Kinosoo Ridge Resort Winter Camp experience is more than just a present – it’s an investment in joy, skills, and cherished moments. It’s an ideal way to encourage kids to embrace the great outdoors and develop new hobbies in a safe and exciting environment. This Christmas, step away from the ordinary and give extraordinary experiences! Visit kinosoo.ca for more details and to make your holiday shopping a breeze with these thoughtful, adventure-filled gifts.
But that’s not all! We’re introducing lessons for the tiniest snow adventurers, starting at just three years old. Our Snowbirds Camp is specially designed for these young ones, offering three days of ski/snowboard lessons, rentals, and lift tickets.
start o t y l r a e o o t It’ s neverrving those slopes! ca
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Winter pricing and more at your fingertips! Planning your winter adventure has never been easier. All our winter pricing and offerings are now available at kinosoo.ca kinosoo.ca. To purchase your tickets in advance, online, head over to our store at store.kinosoo.ca. store.kinosoo.ca Whether you’re a seasoned snow bunny or a first-timer ready to make your mark in the snow, Kinosoo Ridge Resort is your destination for an elevated winter experience. Don’t just brace for the cold, embrace it and turn this winter into an unforgettable adventure at Kinosoo Ridge Resort! If you have specific questions about our camps or other offers, feel free to email the Kinosoo Guest Services team at info@kinosoo.ca or call 780-594-5564. They’re always ready to assist you!
For detailed information about each camp, including dates, explanations of ski and snowboard levels, and pricing, please visit our website at kinosoo.ca. We’ve got all the information you need to plan your perfect winter adventure at Kinosoo Ridge Resort!
WINTER TRAILS ACROSS THE M.D.
Embrace quality time outdoors! Winter is here, and it’s the perfect time to explore the great outdoors. Take advantage of the M.D.’s many groomed and maintained trails and enjoy the crisp, refreshing air. Ardmore Pond Trail Cold Lake M.D. Park Trail Pelican Point M.D. Park Trails Muriel Lake M.D. Park Trail System Moose Lake Community Trail System Check out our interactive Parks and Recreation Map at bit.ly/ParksAndRecMap for more information on trails. At the time of the printing of this newsletter, there wasn’t a lot of snow on the ground. When the snow finally arrives, you can find trail grooming updates for the cross-country ski trails at Muriel Lake M.D. Park on Nordic Pulse at bit.ly/MDNordicPulse bit.ly/MDNordicPulse.
OUTDOOR RINKS ARDMORE, CHERRY GROVE & FORT KENT
Skate safe and have a great time! While we’ve been mostly enjoying a mild winter, we know skaters are anxious to get out on the ice at our outdoor rinks in Ardmore, Cherry Grove, and Fort Kent. Unfortunately, in order for us to flood the rinks to make ice, temperatures must remain below 0°C. At the time of this newsletter, we had just enjoyed a week of above-zero temperatures and sunshine. Keep an eye on M.D. socials for updates on ice surfaces. Once we get the opportunity to get the rinks up and running, we’ll announce it there. After the rinks are open, Parks staff will flood the rinks three times a week. 6
Cherry Grove ODR
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DON’T CROWD THE PLOW
‘Tis the Season to Share the Roads with the Snowplows This year, the Transportation Department would like to share some driving dos and don’ts to help us all get through this winter safely. DO • • • • •
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DON’T Ensure your headlights are on during snow or freezing rain, even during the day. Use winter-rated tires with the snowflake symbol, if possible. Watch for flashing amber lights. Sometimes the lights on snowplows can be difficult to see because of the snow dust during plowing operations. Give snowplows plenty of space. We recommend 10 car lengths. Sand, salt, and other debris can fly and cause damage to windshields and paint. Remember, the snowplow is restricted to slower speeds while plowing (40 to 60 km/hr). Please have patience and refrain from passing as the road ahead has not been plowed yet and will have additional hazards. The operator will periodically pull over to allow motorists to pass. Pull over as far to the right as safely possible when meeting an oncoming snowplow. Remember, the posted speed limits are a maximum during ideal conditions. Driving to the current road conditions will allow the required braking time should something unexpected happen.
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Don’t assume the snowplow operator can see you, especially when visibility is poor. Don’t tailgate. Tailgating any vehicle puts you at risk of a collision, and this is amplified with larger vehicles such as snowplows. Snowplows also have larger blind spots than most vehicles, especially while actively plowing. Don’t pass snowplows. It is not safe. Don’t be a distracted driver. Focus on driving, especially during less-than-ideal conditions.
While we do our very best to plow the roads in a timely manner, there will be times when you may find yourself travelling on an unplowed road. Please use caution and slow down during these times. See our snow and ice control policy at bit.ly/SnowIcePolicy for more information. We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable winter!
PUBLIC SAFETY
Ice Safety Wintertime brings so many new activities and adventures for families and friends to enjoy. As our waterways, lakes, and dugouts begin to freeze, it’s always important to remember the hazards of walking and playing on ice. Before venturing onto ice, it is crucial to ensure its thickness. A minimum of four inches of clear, solid ice is generally considered safe for activities like ice fishing or walking. For driving, it does vary depending on vehicle type and size. A good bet would be to ensure you have ice thickness of at least eight to 12 inches before driving onto it. The thickness requirement varies based on factors like temperature, recent weather conditions, and the presence of currents or air bubbles within the ice. It’s essential to test the ice frequently using an ice auger or an ice chisel, especially when moving to different areas. Never assume that ice is uniformly thick across a body of water. Wearing proper safety gear, such as a life jacket and ice picks, and avoiding alcohol consumption during ice-related activities significantly reduces risk. Always inform someone about your plans. If you are uncertain about the safety of the ice, it’s best to stay off completely to prevent accidents or potential dangers. Having a phone or two-way radio in an easily accessible location is also a good idea.
If the worst happens and you happen to fall through ice, try to do the following: 1. Stay calm and control your breathing. 2. Don’t remove any winter clothing while still in the water as this clothing can help you trap and retain warm air. 3. Call for help and stay near the hole. Using your hands and arms, try to pull yourself onto the remaining ice like a seal would. 4. Use your legs to help kick yourself out of the water. 5. If you don’t believe you can get yourself out of the water alone, place your clothed arms onto the ice and allow them to freeze together so you won’t sink. 6. People in water typically drown before freezing, so the longer you can stay afloat the better. 7. Continue calling for help as long as you are able and seek medical assistance as soon as possible.
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AGRICULTURAL SERVICES
Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree Did you know the tradition of the Christmas tree dates back to the early 18th Century? European settlers brought over the tradition to Canada. Whether you venture out into the woods with your family to pick the perfect tree or set-up an artificial tree, there is no doubt the Christmas tree is a vibrant part of Christmas in Canada.
BALSAM FIR
There are many things to consider when finding the perfect Christmas tree. For instance, did you know there are various species of Christmas trees? Depending on the overall look you want to achieve, the hardiness, scent, and longevity are all details you may want to consider. The top three popular varieties are balsam fir, spruce, and pine. Balsam fir is most widely considered the real Christmas tree. This species is known for its amazing fragrance, dark and smooth needles, and symmetrical shape. However, the branches are not as strong as species such as spruce or pine and your balsam fir branches may droop if heavy ornaments are placed on them.
COLORADO SPRUCE
If you opt for a spruce tree, there are many varieties to choose from – Colorado, White, and Black Spruce are all common in our area. All spruce has strong branches and prickly needles and are excellent for hanging ornaments. Their colour ranges from whitish blue to blue and dark green. Spruce is considered very hardy and will last throughout the Christmas season. The last option you may want to consider is a Lodgepole or Scots Pine. Their robust structure, aroma, and needle placement make them a unique choice and a favourite among individuals. If you want to harvest a real Christmas tree, you have a couple of options.You may be able to find trees for sale at a local business that were supplied by an Alberta grower.You can also harvest a tree on Crown land. If you decide to go this route, you will have to obtain a Personal Use Forest Products permit from the Alberta Government forestry division. The permit is valid for 30 days and allows you to cut up to three trees.Visit www.alberta.ca/the-gift-of-an-alberta-christmas-tree for more information.
WHITE SPRUCE
When choosing your Christmas tree, testing for freshness is key for the longevity of the tree. Look for needle flexibility – fresh needles should be pliable and not break. The colour will be vibrant, not dull, nor have any browning needles. The tree should emit a strong and pleasant odour. Always check for resin on the tree trunk, a sticky trunk is a sign of a hydrated tree. Once you have picked your tree and harvested it, it is time to bring it inside. First, cut one to two cm off the tree stump before placing it in water. The first water should be very warm to get the sap moving. As the tree thaws, it will pull the water upwards and to its branches.Your tree will drink several litres of water a day in the first couple of weeks. Never let it dry out and check the water levels a couple of times a day.
SCOTS PINE
Once the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season is over, proper disposal of your Christmas tree is very important. Residents in the M.D. of Bonnyville may dispose of their trees at one of the six landfills. When visiting a landfill, follow the directions from the landfill attendant. Do not drop or dispose of trees at bin sites or in municipal rights of way. A full list of transfer stations and their hours of operation can be found on the M.D. of Bonnyville website. *This column was provided by M.D. consultant and tree expert, Toso Bozic.
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CleanFarms Chemical Jug Recycling Program In 2022, CleanFarms announced it was transitioning its pesticide and fertilizer container recycling program from a municipalbased collection model to a retail-based collection model across Alberta. The change harmonizes the collection system across Canada. Producers in the M.D. of Bonnyville can still currently recycle their empty containers at the Bonnyville location at the Bonnyville Seed Cleaning Plant. The collection program at this location will be permanently closed as of December 31, 2023. Starting January 1, 2024, producers will have to return their <23L pesticide and fertilizer containers to the retailer. Producers can pick up free plastic bags at the Bonnyville Seed Cleaning Plant and the Goodridge landfill to make collecting, storing, and transporting containers easier and more efficient. All containers must be bagged before they can be returned to the retailer. Retailers are currently in a transition phase and are preparing to collect empty containers in the new year. If you have any questions, please contact Agriculture Services at 780-826-3951.
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Dust Control Residents requesting dust control in front of their homes can now submit an application. It is recommended residents apply before February 1, 2024. The deadline for applications is March 31, 2024. Dust control measures will be applied in sections, up to a maximum of 200 metres in length, per residence. Please note — priority will be given to roads with high traffic and truck volumes, where high levels of dust of been observed by M.D. staff, and roads where residents have been diagnosed with dust sensitive medical issues. More information and applications are available online at bit.ly/MDBvilleDustControl and at the Main Administration Office (4905-50 Ave. in Bonnyville). Requests will be addressed as per budgetary allowances and Council approval. For more information, please contact the Infrastructure Services Department at 780-826-3951.
SNOWFEVER 2022
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DID YOU KNOW?
Holiday Hours Please note – all M.D. offices will be closed December 25, 2023 to January 1, 2024. Regular hours will resume January 2, 2024.
Bylaw concerns can be reported to the Public Safety Department at 780-812-3332.
All M.D. landfills/transfer stations will be closed December 24, 2023 at 2 p.m., as well as December 25, 26, 2023 and January 1, 2024.
Road concerns requiring immediate attention can be called in to our 24-hour concern line at 780-812-5000.
NOTE IT! Tax Payment Plan Did you know the Municipal District of Bonnyville offers a monthly payment plan for property taxes? If you sign up today, your monthly payment plan to pay your 2024 property taxes will start in January. How does it work? When you sign up for the Tax Installment Payment Plan (TIPP), your tax bill will be broken up into 12 monthly payments and automatically withdrawn from your bank account on the 15th day of each month, starting in January 2024.
In order to sign up for the program, your tax account must have a zero balance. While current ratepayers must sign up at the beginning of the year, new M.D. property owners have 30 days after their purchase date to sign up. TIPP is a great way to manage your tax payment and avoid penalties. Need more information? Want to sign up? Contact our Tax Department at 780-826-3171.
YOUR M.D. COUNCIL WARD 1
Josh Crick jcrick@md.bonnyville.ab.ca 780-545-5961
PRODUCED AND PRINTED BY THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF BONNYVILLE NO. 87 4905 - 50 Avenue Bag 1010 Bonnyville, Alberta T9N 2J7
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Darcy Skarsen dskarsen@md.bonnyville.ab.ca 780-201-3478
WARD 3 CONTACT US: Main Administration 780-826-3171
Mike Krywiak mkrywiak@md.bonnyville.ab.ca 780-573-6093
Public Safety/Bylaw Concerns 780-812-3332 24-Hour Concern Line 780-812-5000
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FIND US ONLINE
dslipchuk@md.bonnyville.ab.ca 780-545-8443
web - md.bonnyville.ab.ca email - info@md.bonnyville.ab.ca
Don Slipchuk
WARD 5 Sign up for a digital copy of the Rural Review at md.bonnyville.ab.ca.
Dana Swigart dswigart@md.bonnyville.ab.ca 780-573-9095
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Ben Fadeyiw COPYRIGHT - The articles, logos, and photos in this publication are the copyright of the Municipal District of Bonnyville No. 87 and may not be reproduced without consent.
bfadeyiw@md.bonnyville.ab.ca 780-826-1462
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MESSAGE FROM THE REEVE As you sit down to read the last edition of Rural Review of 2023, I’d like to wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from myself, Council, and the staff of the Municipal District of Bonnyville. In this edition, you’ll find information on the 2024 budget that was passed at the December 12, 2023 Council meeting. The budget includes saving money for upcoming projects, while completing one big project.
Barry Kalinski bkalinski@md.bonnyville.ab.ca 780-573-6082
The residents of Cherry Grove will be getting their long-awaited fire hall — one of the largest projects the municipality will undertake next year. Using existing blueprints and M.D.-owned land, this project will be done as efficiently and economically responsible as possible. The safety of our residents is our priority.
We had some successes and saw both staff and Council participating in and hosting more community events. From the reopening of the Shaw House Visitor Information Centre and flipping burgers at the annual Gear Grabbers Drag Races to the parades from the beginning of summer right up to the local Santa Claus parades and the two new open houses for Public Works Week and Emergency Preparedness, we’ve definitely been enjoying spending time with our residents. And for that, we’re thankful. Be sure to keep an eye on our website and social media pages for more information on municipal events happening in 2024. Have a safe, happy holiday season. May your 2024 be blessed with happiness, health, and prosperity.
I also want to take this time to reflect on 2023.
NOTES FROM THE CAO It is that time of year again — the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season is upon us. However, this year feels a little different as Mother Nature has brought us an unusually warm and dry winter season. We certainly hope for moisture not only for our farming community, but also for our forests and green zones. The weather today will affect our spring.
Al Hoggan ahoggan@md.bonnyville.ab.ca 780-826-3171
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Recently, Council passed the 2024 Operating and Capital Budget. The 2024 budget has focused on the retention of our high service levels and at the same time creating reserves for our aging infrastructure. Council has recognized that our roads, bridges, and buildings do have a finite life and it is better to put a little away every year to offset the eventual replacement/repair of that infrastructure, all while maintaining affordable tax rates. Administration looks forward to launching the new projects slated for 2024 that
will add to the benefits of living here in the M.D. of Bonnyville. Council has also made the prevention of rural crime a priority and to that end has met with Minister of Public Safety and the Minister of Justice to outline our challenges here in northeastern Alberta. Many municipalities in Alberta are also seeing a significant increase in crime, and Council reiterated to the Ministers that the “revolving door” of our current system needs to stop. As we look around the world and watch the news, it is obvious we have many blessings here in our region. Although sometimes we get caught up in the moment, let us be thankful for what we have. From all of us at the M.D., we wish each and every one of you a safe and blessed Christmas season and a very prosperous New Year.