Last year the MD built an addition onto the existing Brownlee Building, and in doing so we were able to work with the Alberta Government on a long-term lease agreement to house the Alberta Fish & Wildlife office, keeping their services in our region. While the addition was being constructed, renovations were completed in the remainder of the building.
I am very pleased to advise that the mil rates have once again remained at their present rate. Our rates have not risen since 2010. After reviewing ratepayer’s concerns, Council decided to reduce the minimum tax from $150 to $50.
In 2022, the MD saw the construction of the G3 Grain Terminal on Township Rd 780, West of Highway 2 and we are pleased to see them up and running this year. Richardson Pioneer completed a number of upgrades and Weaver Auctions also expanded in 2022.
The MD has continued to work on road improvements. Last year, we completed the Burnt River Erosion Project on Township Road 771A, East of Highway 2. This was a four-year project working with the Government of Alberta to approve disaster funding. We are also working with the Government to access funding to address the slide on Township Road 790, East of Highway 2.
A large portion of the Range Road 54 Extension Project to connect Range Road 54 to Highway 49 has been completed. At this time, we are awaiting CN Rail’s approval for work on the rail crossing just before the highway in order to complete the road. We anticipate that this work will commence in June. An additional benefit of construction of this road was the installation of a drainage ditch to help divert water from the Village and prevent future flooding.
The MD continues to work on improvements to municipal infrastructure, roads and bridges. We are working on an Asset Management Program that prioritizes maintenance of bridges and roads based on urgency of repair, in order to perform maintenance effectively and efficiently.
The Nardam Park & Campground has seen a number of upgrades including the installation of bearproof garbage cans, an upgraded woodshed, and the addition of a new fountain with lights in the pond. The MD Cemetery has also seen many improvements including the installation of a columbarium with benches, and a new gazebo. Grounds maintenance continues at the cemetery and fence lines will be cleaned up.
In the Fall of 2022, we welcomed Simon Amting as our new Agricultural Fieldman. Simon brings some great experience and a great attitude to the position. We trust our producers will enjoy meeting and working with him.
Monty Kuhar, our Economic Development Coordinator, is going on maternity leave and so we welcome Cassandra Moore to assist us. She has been a great addition.
The MD has a great Public Works crew who take great pride in their work. We appreciate everyone’s patience when roads need plowing or grading. Our operators take great pride in their work and most ratepayers seem happy with the results. Should you have concerns, we encourage you to call our Public Works Supervisor, Dave Johnson, at 780-864-9600.
Additionally, the MD has joined the Mackenzie Municipal Services Agency (MMSA) to handle our subdivisions and assist us with the Land Use Bylaw and Intermunicipal Agreements.
The MD has continued working on projects such as the Central Peace Medical Clinic, Peace Region Economic Development Alliance, Northern Transportation Bureau, Northern Alberta Elected Leaders, Central Peace Seed Cleaning Coop, Grande Spirit Foundation, as well as many others.
Council and staff are happy to assist our ratepayers and look forward to a productive 2023.
The MD’s administration team is a dedicated and hardworking team. Should you have any questions, please call the office at 780-864-3500. Any member of our team will be more than happy to help you.
Sincerely,
Tony Van Rootselaar, Reeve
