2025 BUDGET
Council passes 2025 Budget with 3.4 per cent increase
At its Regular Meeting of Council, December 10, 2024, Council approved the 2025 Operating Budget and 2025 Capital Plan.
In 2025, M.D. property owners can expect to see a 3.4 per cent increase in the municipal portion of their tax bill.
“Our residents have come to expect a high-level of service and delivery from the M.D.,” said Reeve Barry Kalinski. “In order to continue to offer the programs and services our residents enjoy, we found it necessary to increase taxes slightly this year. M.D. staff worked hard to bring Council a budget that incorporates the goals we set out in the 2022-2027 Council Strategic Plan while continuing with our day-to-day business of offering road maintenance, water and sewer services, waste services, parks, planning, and a long list of other services.”
In its report, Administration explained the average increase would equate to about $49.48 on an average residential tax bill.
Following three days of deliberation at the end of October and beginning of November, the 2025 Operating Budget is set at just over $61 million. The Capital Budget comes in at $18.9 million.
The 2025 tax rate will be passed in May, after the M.D. has received the annual requisitions for school taxes, Lakeland Lodge and Housing, and Greater North Foundation lodging.
New tender system on the horizon
The M.D. is changing the way it does business when it comes to tenders, proposals, and quotes.
Beginning December 9, 2024, the M.D. moved from using Alberta Purchasing Connection (APC) and the Bid section on the M.D. website for bid documents to a third party — bids&tenders.
By moving to this new third-party company, the M.D. offers an easier avenue for submitting bids for M.D. contracts. In the past, most bids had to be submitted physically – either by mail, fax, or by dropping it off at a specific M.D. office.
The move to using bids&tenders came after the M.D. received feedback from vendors about their preference for electronic submission. At that time, the M.D. wasn’t in a position to accept electronic submissions and email submissions did not work in line with the M.D.’s Request for Proposal (RFP) evaluation process.
Now, by partnering with bids&tenders, vendors use electronic submission which offers the following advantages:
1. Paperless submission
2. Environmentally friendly submission
3. No courier costs
4. Cuts out the commute time for in-person submission delivery
bids&tenders is a user-friendly digital procurement platform that streamlines the process of reviewing, registering for, and submitting bids. It streamlines bidding process and provides access to bidding opportunities from over 400 esteemed organizations.
Please visit bidsandtenders.com for more information.
Vendors are not required to pay to access bid documents. The M.D. will now use bids&tenders to source for goods and services. This makes it easy for vendors to review, register, download, and submit bids online in one bidding system. Hardcopy submissions will no longer be accepted.
Bid documents posted before Monday December 9, 2024 will continue to be found on APC and the M.D.’s website.
Bid opportunities on or after Monday December 9, 2024 will continue to be advertised on APC and the M.D.’s website. Bid documents will only be available through the bids&tenders site.
For more information, contact the M.D.’s Procurement Officer at info@md.bonnyville.ab.ca.
LESSONS + CAMPS
2024/25
Beginners up to eight students
CAMPS
WINTER CAMP
SKI Ages 6 –12 (Level 1– 4) or SNOWBOARD Ages 7–12 (Level 1– 4)
This camp includes three days of rentals, three lift tickets, and three ski/snowboard lessons (three days x two-hour lessons).
A: Lesson, lift, rental (need everything)
B: Lesson, rental (season pass holder)
C: Lesson, lift (own equipment)
D: Lesson (season pass holder + own equipment)
SNOWBIRDS SKI Ages 3–5
This camp includes three days of rentals, three lift tickets, and three ski/snowboard lessons (three days x 45-minute lesson).
A: Lesson, lift, rental (need everything)
B: Lesson, rental (season pass holder)
C: Lesson, lift (own equipment)
D: Lesson (season pass holder + own equipment)
Available Dates
December 27– 29, 2024
January 3–5 , 2025
January 18, 25, February 1, 2025
January 19, 26, February 2, 2025
February 22, March 1, 8, 2025
February 23, March 2, 9, 2025
March 15, 22, 29, 2025
March 16, 23, 30, 2025
TUBE ‘N TEACH
SKI Ages 6 –12 (Level 1 –2) or SNOWBOARD Ages 7–12 (Level 1 –2)
This camp includes two hours of skiing or snowboarding, one hour of tubing, one day rental, one lift ticket, and lunch.
A: Lesson, lift, rental (need everything)
B: Lesson, rental (season pass holder)
C: Lesson, lift (own equipment)
D: Lesson (season pass holder + own equipment)
Available Dates
January 11, 2025 January 12, 2025
TUBE PARK RATES
INDIVIDUAL PASS Ages 5+
INDIVIDUAL PASS Ages 2–4
FAMILY OF 5
ADDITIONAL MEMBER
GROUP OF 10+
INDIVIDUAL PASS (last 1.5 hours)
INDIVIDUAL PASS (last hour)
PRIVATE BOOKING (2 hours)
PRIVATE BOOKING (4 hours)
The Tube Park overlooks French Bay on Cold Lake, has a warm up shack and bonfire to keep you toasty, and a carpet lift to get you back up to the top in no time.
SKIING WITH SANTA
Where you can find Santa:
TUBE PARK 1 to 2 p.m.
SKILL HILL 2 to 3 p.m.
LEGISLATIVE SERVICES
2025 Election
With the nomination period for the 2025 Municipal Election opening January 1, 2025, preparations are underway at the M.D.
The electoral process for October 25, 2025 will see many changes for both voters and candidates after the Province of Alberta passed Bill 20: Municipal Affairs Statutes Amendment Act this fall.
Some of the changes affecting candidates include:
• Changes to candidates’ campaign periods and the acceptance/spending of campaign funding and reporting requirements.
• Requiring an Intent to Run form to be filed with the municipality prior to accepting or spending any campaign funding. The M.D. will then be required to maintain a public register of all filed forms and post it on the M.D. website.
• Repealing the ability for a candidate’s official agent or scrutineer to object to an elector.
There were also significant changes affecting campaign funding rules, limits, and regulations.
Some of the changes voters will see include:
• Tabulators and automated voting equipment are now prohibited.
• The requirement to establish a Permanent Electors Register using information contained from the provincial register and supplemented by information from the municipality. Due to this change, identification requirements have also changed, depending on if the elector is already on the elector register or is required to register at the polling station. Municipalities are no longer authorized to pass a bylaw allowing additional types of identification.
• You can now only vouch for an elector’s address, as opposed to previously being able to vouch for an elector’s identity, address, and age.
• The M.D. will now be required to offer Special Ballots and expanded eligibility to all electors unable to attend Advance Vote or Election Day, which includes new special ballot voter registration and verification processes.
• New requirements to redact certain personal information prior to release of nomination papers and financial disclosures.
• New ministerial powers to extend or adjourn voting times in the event of an emergency
Note: These points do not reflect any of the amendments made to the Municipal Government Act under Bill 20
If you are interested or considering running as a candidate in the upcoming election, it is strongly recommended you review the revised Local Authorities Election Act
You can find more information, including links to more information, resources, the Intent to Run form* and more at the M.D.’s election website at bit.ly/2025MDElection
The website will be updated frequently, as more information becomes available from the province. The M.D.’s Candidate Guide will be made available in the New Year. Keep an eye on M.D. social platforms for updates.
* Please note – the Intent to Run Form must be completed and filed with the M.D. prior to accepting and/or expending any campaign funding for a Municipal Election. The Intent to Run register will also be available on the web page once it has been established.
If you have any questions, please contact Stephanie Severin, Manager of Legislative and Information Services at 780-826-3171.
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
How to prepare for a power outage
In the winter, high winds, freezing rain, and extreme cold can damage power lines. While most power outages will be over quickly, some can last much longer. During a power outage you may be without heat, light, running water, and no way to monitor news broadcasts. You may also be left without phone service.
You can lessen the impact on you and your loved ones during a power outage by taking steps to prepare in advance.
What can you do before an outage:
• Download the Alberta Emergency Alert app for critical, lifesaving alerts
• Download the Voyent! Alert app for local alerts and updates
• Stay tuned to the M.D. of Bonnyville’s website and social media accounts for updates
• Develop and practice an emergency preparedness plan for you and those living together
• Make sure your 72-hour emergency kit is stocked with supplies such as food, water, battery-powered or crank flashlights and radios, along with extra batteries
• Install a carbon monoxide detector with backup battery power
• Have backup power in place for your heating (such as a generator) and medical equipment
• If you have a wood-burning fireplace, keep enough firewood for an extended period
• If you have a vehicle, keep the tank full in case fuel stations lose power or close.
For more information visit bit.ly/MDEmergencyManagement
What can you do during an outage:
• If the power is on in your neighbourhood but not in your home, check your breaker
• Call your utility provider to determine if the interruption is widespread or only affecting your property
• Leave one light on to know when the power has been restored
• Before you travel, check Alberta 511, for road conditions.
If you must remain where you are, here are some tips:
• Head to the lowest level of the building, as it will stay warm longer
• Keep doors and blinds closed
• Use a wood-burning fireplace if you have one
• Turn cell phones to battery-saving mode and only use them for emergency calls
• Disconnect appliances and electronics
• Keep freezer and refrigerator doors closed.
Gas stoves and ovens are not safe heating sources due to possible carbon monoxide poisoning.
What can you do after an outage:
• Ensure appliances and electronics are unplugged before turning on the main power supply
• Allow the power to stabilize and wait 15 minutes before reconnecting appliances and electronics
• Turn on the essentials first, such as, heating, followed by refrigerators and freezers
• Make sure the hot water heater is filled before turning it on
• Check all food for signs of spoilage.
AGRICULTURAL SERVICES
Rat on Rats!
Did you know Alberta continues to remain the largest rat-free jurisdiction in the world? Rats can be found on every continent in the world except for Antarctica and within Alberta.
Rats are believed to have been introduced to Canada around 1775 through early settlers. They are highly adaptable to new environments and reproduce quickly, making established populations difficult to control. Rats are notorious carriers of disease that can spread to humans and animals. The species are unique in the way that they rely on humans for survival. Rats need easy access to shelter, food, and water to live. It is estimated that in the United States damages, contamination, and pest control costs taxpayers $19 billion annually (current Canadian statistics are not available).
Alberta’s Rat Control Program was established in the 1950s when rats were first reported on the eastern borders. The program is a successful pest management initiative, keeping Alberta virtually rat free for over 70 years. This program continues to be effective through strict regulations, public education, and routine inspections of farms, businesses, and residential areas. Inspections are completed by municipalities in the Rat Control Zone. The Rat Control Zone consists of seven municipalities (from Cold Lake to Montana) whose eastern boundaries border Saskatchewan. Rat control is not carried out on the western boundary of the province as the Rocky Mountains offer a natural barrier. Municipalities are tasked with appointing a Pest Control Officer who works diligently to monitor and manage potential rat activity. The M.D. completes approximately 600 inspections twice annually in Range 1.
This year, the Alberta Invasive Species Council (AISC) partnered with Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation to develop the new “Rat on Rats” campaign. Right now, we are asking for your help to report sightings of rats or any damage they may have caused.
Look for these common signs:
• Droppings (same size and shape as an olive pit).
• Burrow entrances (5 – 7.5 cm round) around grain bins, outbuildings, haystacks, etc.
• Runways in the grass or under bales.
• Gnaw or chew marks on wood, buildings, wires, etc.
• Rub marks along walls.
There are four ways you can Rat on Rats:
1. Through the invasive species reporting app, EDDMapS, available for iPhone and Android
2. Call 310-FARM
3. Email rats@gov.ab.ca
4. Contact our pest control officer at 780-826-3901.
If you have any questions or would like to learn more about the M.D.’s Rat Control Program, contact the Agricultural Services Department at 780-826-3901.
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.
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.
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 alberta.ca/the-gift-of-an-alberta-christmas-tree for more information.
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.
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,
BALSAM FIR
COLORADO SPRUCE
WHITE SPRUCE
SCOTS PINE
Toso Bozic.
WASTE SERVICES
Are you recycling or wishcycling?
Plastics are one of the hardest household recyclables to manage properly. This is not only because there are so many different types of plastic materials, but also because there is so much information to navigate. This is why we’ve put an acceptable and non-acceptable materials sticker on M.D. recycling bins in hope of providing some clarity.
When Styrofoam, plastic wrap, and oil jugs are placed in the household plastic recycling bins, not only is this an incorrect practice (as detailed on the stickers on each bin), but it has the potential to contaminate an entire load of recycling, ultimately sending the entire contaminated shipment to the landfill. We want to avoid this as much as possible and want to help our residents to identify the acceptable materials that can be placed in the bins provided.
As a reminder, here is the plastics collection process for the M.D.:
1. Residents do their own sorting of materials and drop off into 6-yard bins at our transfer stations and bin sites.
2. The garbage truck then comes along on plastic recycling day (every three to four weeks) and empties the bins into the truck.
3. Once the collection run is complete, the garbage truck then takes that load of plastic to the City of Cold Lake landfill site where it is baled at their recycling centre and sent off to be recycled.
The M.D.’s goal is to only collect and transfer items that are most likely to be recycled, because as we know, plastics are a commodity. If plastics producers don’t want to buy the material, then it ends up being landfilled further along in the process. Processors can only hang onto materials for so long before the plastics start to degrade, or they run out of storage space. The M.D. has followed the lead of other large municipalities in the province, such as Strathcona County and the City of Fort Saskatchewan, in asking residents to recycle only hard rigid plastics.
A few benefits of this are:
1. The plastics we collect have a better chance of being recycled.
2. Residents don’t need to spend time sorting and rinsing plastics that are unlikely to be recycled.
3. Our transfer stations and bin sites will have less plastic littering the fences and bushes around the sites if Styrofoam, flexible packaging, and plastic film products are disposed of in the bagged household waste bins.
In 2025, as part of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Program, there will be drop-off locations created for hard to recycle items like Styrofoam, plastic wrap, and other flexible plastic packaging items. But until then, it is critical these items are not placed into the plastics recycling bins in hopes they will be recycled too, as this process known as “wish-cycling” causes more harm than good.
Keep an eye on our website and social media platforms for updates and more information on the EPR Program.
‘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.
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
DON’T
• 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!
Christmas and rural mental health: a time for connection
As the holiday season approaches, many of us look forward to gatherings, festive meals, and the warmth of family and friends. However, for those living in rural areas, the holidays can present unique challenges, particularly concerning mental health.
The Hidden Struggles
Rural communities often face higher rates of mental health issues, compounded by factors such as isolation, limited access to services, and stigma surrounding mental health discussions. The pressures of the holiday season — whether from financial strain, loneliness, or heightened expectations — can exacerbate these challenges. In particular, many rural men may feel the weight of these pressures more acutely. Society often expects men to be stoic and self-reliant, making it difficult for them to express their feelings or seek help. This can lead to feelings of isolation, especially during a time that emphasizes connection and community.
The Importance of Connection
Christmas is a time when community spirit can shine bright. For those in rural areas, fostering connection is crucial. Here are some ways to support mental health during the holidays:
1. Community Gatherings - Organize or participate in local events, such as Christmas markets, potlucks, or caroling. These gatherings can combat isolation and provide opportunities for social interaction.
2. Check-Ins - Reach out to friends, family, and neighbours. A simple phone call or text can make a significant difference, reminding someone that they are not alone.
3. Share Stories - Encourage open conversations about mental health. Sharing personal experiences can help normalize these discussions and reduce stigma.
4. Volunteer Opportunities - Get involved in community service. Helping others can provide a sense of purpose and connection, alleviating feelings of isolation.
Finding Joy in the Season
Despite the challenges, Christmas can also be a time of reflection and hope. Engaging in activities that bring joy — whether it’s cooking, decorating, or simply enjoying the beauty of winter — can help improve mental wellbeing. Encourage men in your community to embrace these moments, reminding them that it’s okay to seek joy amidst the struggles.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to seek support. Many organizations and hotlines are available to help, even in remote areas. You are valued, and your wellbeing matters
Mental Health Helpline – 1-877-303-2642
Suicide Crisis Helpline – 988
Suicide Canada – 1-833-456-4566, text 45645
Talk Addiction Helpline – 1-866-332-2322
811 Health Link – Health Advice 24/7
211 Alberta – Community Services
Indigenous Support Line – 1-844-944-4744
Let’s come together this season to support one another, share our joys, and lift each other up. Wishing you a peaceful and fulfilling Christmas!
This Christmas let us commit to nurturing the mental health of our rural communities. By fostering connections, encouraging open dialogue, and providing support, we can create a more inclusive and understanding environment. Together, we can ensure that the spirit of the season — hope, connection, and joy
Article provided by Bonnyville and District Family and Community Social Services
PRODUCED AND PRINTED BY THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF BONNYVILLE NO. 87
4905 - 50 Avenue Bag 1010
Bonnyville, Alberta T9N 2J7
CONTACT US:
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WARD 1
Josh Crick
jcrick@md.bonnyville.ab.ca
780-545-5961 WARD 2
Darcy Skarsen
dskarsen@md.bonnyville.ab.ca 780-201-3478 WARD 3
Mike Krywiak
mkrywiak@md.bonnyville.ab.ca
780-573-6093 WARD 4
Don Slipchuk
dslipchuk@md.bonnyville.ab.ca 780-545-8443 WARD 5
Dana Swigart
dswigart@md.bonnyville.ab.ca
780-573-9095 WARD 6
Ben Fadeyiw
bfadeyiw@md.bonnyville.ab.ca 780-826-1462
MESSAGE FROM THE REEVE
Barry Kalinski
bkalinski@md.bonnyville.ab.ca 780-573-6082
To start my last column of 2024, on behalf of staff and Council, I’d like to say Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all of our residents, ratepayers, and stakeholders.
This past year has been one of many ups and downs. From fire and drought over the summer to the looks of joy and wonder during the National Public Works Week, Emergency Preparedness Week, and the many parades we’ve taken in, I’ve felt blessed to have been able to spend so much time with all of you this year.
Kinosoo Ridge Resort is now open for the 2024/25 snow season. With fun lesson camps and extended hours throughout the holiday season, it’s a great way to spend time with family outdoors. Be sure to keep an eye out for the jolliest man in the brightest red suit – he’ll be hanging out at the hill before he loads up his sleigh.
Have a safe, fun, and happy holiday season. I wish you all a prosperous 2025.
Hoilday hours
With the holiday season approaching, please be aware to the following changes in operating hours. Regular hours will resume January 2, 2025, with the exception of Kinosoo Ridge Resort as noted below.
All M.D. offices: December 25, 2024 to January 1, 2025 – closed
M.D. Landfills: December 24 – all landfills open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
December 25 & 26 – closed January 1 – closed
Kinosoo Ridge Resort: December 24 – closed
December 25 – closed December 26 to 31 – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
January 1, 2025 – closed
January 2 to 5 – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.