milestones 2014

1SECTION NAME

MILESTONES 2014YOUR SOURCE FOR LOCAL NEWS, VIEWS AND CURRENT EVENTS

MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF LESSER SLAVE RIVER NO. 124

RESPONSIBLE DOG OWNERSHIP IN RURAL COMMUNITIES

SLAVE LAKE OFFICE

PHONE: 780.849.4888 / TOLL-FREE: 1.866.449.4888FAX: 780.849.4939 / E-MAIL: [email protected]: Box 722, Slave Lake AB T0G 2A0STREET: 3000, 15 Avenue SE, Slave Lake AB T0G 2A0

OTHER CONTACTS

24-HOUR MUNICIPAL EMERGENCY: 780.849.4888REGIONAL LANDFILL: 780.369.2590

FLATBUSH OFFICE

PHONE: 780.681.3929 / TOLL-FREE: 1.866.681.3929FAX: 780.681.3936 / E-MAIL: [email protected]: Box 93, Flatbush AB T0G 0Z0

VISIT US ONLINE

WEBSITE: md124.caFACEBOOK: facebook.com/mdlsr124TWITTER: @RUGGEDandREALYOU-TUBE: youtube.com/user/RUGGEDandREAL FLICKR: flickr.com/photos/md124

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

EMERGENCY ALERT: emergencyalert.alberta.caALBERTA ROAD REPORT: 511.alberta.caALBERTA 1 CALL: 1.800.242.3447FIRESMART: livefiresmart.caWILDFIRE STATUS: srd.alberta.ca/wildfireWILDFIRE HOTLINE: 310.FIRE (3473)BURNING PERMITS: 780.849.7377

DOG LICENSING & IDENTIFICATION

Dog licensing is FREE and MANDATORY in the Municipal District. Licences are required so your dog can be brought home if he/she runs away (or gets lost) rather than being brought to the shelter. If the Animal Control Officer is notified that your dog is not wearing a licence tag, he/she will be taken to the Town of Slave Lake Dog Pound.

BARKING DOGS

Dog owners must ensure that their dog is not disturbing their neighbours. Keep in mind, dogs bark for a number of reasons, including to:

• Alert their owner of potential danger• Protect the property/territory• Communicate with other dogs and other animals

If dogs are not exercised or stimulated properly, they may also bark just simply out of boredom.

DANGEROUS & / OR VICIOUS DOGS

Dangerous and/or vicious dogs must be kept under strict conditions. Dogs are capable of inflicting severe injury (or in some cases even death). Keep your dog under control by:

• Securely confining it indoors, or if kept outdoors, keep it in a securely enclosed, locked pen or structure

• Using a muzzle and/or restraining your dog when taking it off your property• Clearly displaying “DANGEROUS DOG ON PREMISES” signs at front

and rear property entrances

DOGS-AT-LARGE

Dogs-at-large run the risk of getting lost, being hit by a vehicle, biting people, or harming neighbouring livestock and being put down. Dog owners have control of their dogs when he/she:

• Comes immediately when called• Responds to its owner’s commands• Stays within plain sight

If you cannot control your dog, keep a leash on it at ALL times.

CLEAN-UP YOUR DOG’S WASTE!

Dog waste poses issues for other pets and people (not to mention that it’s unsightly and smells!). Owners must pick up their dog’s waste. Properly dispose of the waste by carrying plastic bags with you on your walks (off or on leash), and depositing the waste into a garbage container.

FINE LISTING AS PER THE MD ANIMAL CONTROL BYLAW

• Unlicenced Dogs: Subject to a $60.00 fine.

• Excessive Barking: Subject to a $100.00 fine.

• Dogs-at-Large: Subject to a $150.00 fine.

• Dangerous and/or Vicious Dogs: Subject to a $500.00 fine.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Cover Photo Morning Glow Nelson Lutz Photgraphy

Design by

AGRICULTURAL SERVICE BOARD

Stop the Spread of Noxious Weeds

ASB Agricultural Rental Equipment Rates & Damage Deposits

TRANSPORTATION & INFRASTRUCTURE

Road Brushing Program

Culvert Operations

REGIONAL SERVICE

Lesser Slave Regional Fire Service Volunteer fire fighters wanted

Junior Fire Fighter Program

Volunteer Qualifications

RURAL SERVICES

New Smith Complex Anticipated completion summer 2015

Waste Management & Landfill Projects

2014 Municipal Census Report Winner of the iPad Mini

ADMINISTRATION

Message from your Reeve Murray Kerik

Meet your Councillors

Message from the Chief Administrative Officer Allan Winarski

Service Awards

Slave Lake Friendship Accord

What is the Tri-Council?

Interview with the Regional Economic Development Officer Kim Dyke

04 11 24

REGIONAL INITIATIVES

The Lesser Slave Watershed Council

12

FINANCE

Independent Auditor’s Report

2014 Capital Budget Highlights

Financial Statements

13

COMMUNITY

Smith Centennial Celebrations Photos courtesy of Athabasca Archives

22

UTILITIES

Regional Waterline Underway

23

25

26PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT

Mass Notification System Two-way communication system coming

Municipal Addressing System Know your ‘Legal Land Description’

Municipal District Land Use Planning Policy

08

PROTECTIVE SERVICES

Free ATV/UTV Training Sessions Do not trespass on private property

10

COPYRIGHT © 2014 MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF LESSER SLAVE RIVER NO.124

4 ADMINISTRATION

BRIAN ROSCHE

DIVISION 2 COUNCILLOR [email protected] PHONE: 780.369.3770

MURRAY KERIK

GARRY HORTON


ROBERT ESAU


BRAD PEARSON


MIKE SKRYNYK


DARREN FULMORE


For nearly a year now, I have had the honour and privilege of serving as your Reeve. The 2013 October election seems like just yesterday — but in the same breath, it also feels like forever ago. From my civic education first as Councillor, and now as Reeve, I have learned that there‘s no shortage of challenges and opportunities in office of the Municipal District. I’m quite confident that Council feels the same way.

As your elected officials and staff, we’ve been collectively working very hard to not just talk about what needs to be done, but to make it actually happen! Our efforts are focused on making our district the ideal place to live, work and play; to build even stronger communities; and to properly steward our ever-growing economy. Now, well into 2014, we’ve made a lot of progress. We continue to grow as we take advantage of this momentum.

Quite simply, growth means success. However, growth also means facing new challenges and overcoming new obstacles. For example, two major issues that need to be resolved are our shortage of residential housing, and our less-than-adequate space for new and existing businesses. We are determined to resolve these issues in a fair manner. By fair, I mean in such a way that doesn’t compromise the character of the area, and that ultimately achieves a solution that neighbouring residents will embrace.

Not unlike playing with nitro, strong issues draw out strong opinions. It’s very difficult (more like impossible) to make every single person happy. Despite this fact, it is naturally our goal to work openly with residents to find common ground…to realize the best possible solutions and outcomes in these trying situations. In support of businesses that have outgrown their existing locations, it is our goal to achieve Crown and private sector land sites for potential further development.

With fall approaching quickly, we are now focusing even greater efforts toward season-sensitive priorities. On the horizon, we plan to improve roads and infrastructure — some of which we can manage ourselves as a Municipal District. Certain other critical issues (such as ensuring the Government provides appropriate healthcare to our region, and ensuring that our primary highway maintenance is equal to that of other areas of Alberta) require the cooperation of our neighbours — the Town of Slave Lake and Sawridge First Nation — to support us in driving these vital points home. We encourage you to share your concerns not just with Council, but also with your Member of Parliament, and your Member of the Legislative Assembly. They too have been elected to serve your best interests. Numbers speak volumes.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank our outstanding community volunteers, many of whom have spent countless behind-the-scenes hours helping out during flooding and emergencies, and of course also during fun events like the Canyon Creek Parade, Smith Fall Fair and Flatbush Rocks. Take advantage of our facilities for these types of events and activities, and get to know your neighbours!

In closing, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the Municipal District staff members. You all play a vital role in better positioning the MD for future growth. What we accomplish each and every day as a team is considerable. Thank you for all your hard work.

Murray Kerik, Reeve

MESSAGE FROM YOUR REEVE, MURRAY KERIK MEET YOUR COUNCILLORS

5

We are extremely pleased to present our 2014 edition of Milestones. It is a time to reflect on the progress that has been made over the year as well as a chance to consider what the future holds in store for the Municipal District. 2013 was a very active year! Inside this edition, you will find our audited financial statements as of December 31, 2013 and a review summary.

Since 2011, the Municipal District has been involved in multiple initiatives with our regional partners in the

Slave Lake area: the Sawridge First Nation and the Town of Slave Lake. As a result, progress toward laying the foundations for economic growth and for future infrastructure is continually moving ahead. Projects such as the regional water project would not have been possible without the cooperation and mutual respect that exists between the partners. Even small areas of endeavour — such as urban weed inspection provided to the Town by the MD — have come to fruition.

During 2014, residents should observe the passage of the Regional Plan by the First Nation, Town and MD. This document is important in that it signifies future joint efforts in land use development in and around Slave Lake, with consideration to targeted economic initiatives to solidify Slave Lake as the regional centre for this part of Alberta. One tangible that is a priority to the region involves working together to see the development of service company (industrial) lots that are in short supply. Another is to ensure that the reasons for which people would choose to live in our region or come as tourists are preserved and enhanced.

Beyond the usual capital upgrades, replacements and efforts to maximize the life of infrastructure, residents will observe that the MD has a lot of construction going on: new waterlines in Poplar Lane and to Bayer Road; a new booster

station and reservoir for the Southshore communities; a rebuild of the Smith Complex; development of a park in Canyon Creek next to the arena; and paving of portions of Southshore Drive in Canyon Creek and Widewater.

Municipal District Council, as steward of the MD’s future, is concerned about ensuring that services provided and infrastructure developed are sustainable. Historically, the MD has had reasonable rates of taxation, and Council would like to see this continue into the future. As a result, the administration will be working with Council to achieve their strategic direction and long-term plans.

I would like to acknowledge our staff for their commitment to “riding for the MD brand” and for the service they provide to our citizens. As an honourable mention: through their efforts, the MD recently had a successful safety audit for Certificate of Recognition (COR) purposes. We are truly fortunate to have people throughout our organization who are not afraid to say there is a better way of doing things!

Allan Winarski, CGA Chief Administrative Officer

ADMINISTRATION

ALLAN WINARSKI

MESSAGE FROM CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER, ALLAN WINARSKI

SERVICE AWARDS

CONGRATULATIONS!

In recognition of their years of service, hard work and dedication to our community, these four MD staff members received Service Awards at our June 11th, 2014 Council Meeting.

From Left to Right: Reeve Murray Kerik, Councillor Brad Pearson, Wes Dick (5 Years), Dave Shupac (5 Years), Debbie Conrad (15 Years), Joni Boucher (5 Years), Councillor Garry Horton, Chief Administrative Officer Allan Winarski, Councillor Darren Fulmore and Councillor Mike Skrynyk.

6 ADMINISTRATION

On May 10th 2014 the Sawridge First Nation hosted the Honouring the Fire Round Dance at the Multi-Rec Centre in Slave Lake, which brought together more than 150 people to participate in the traditional Cree Round Dance.

The First Nations people of Canada have used the Round Dance for hundreds of years to celebrate numerous occasions such as marriages, births, to give thanks for good hunting seasons, to welcome newcomers, celebrate guests, to celebrate the life of one who has passed on, and for many more occasions. The ceremony begins with the prayers of an Elder, the smoking of the pipe and the blessing of the food — a large feast brings everyone together with duck stew, moose steak, potatoes, carrots, stewed blueberries and raspberries, and fried bannock served. Following the feast the celebration really begins — talented drummers erupt into song inviting all to dance in friendship and kinship well into the night.

A portion of the Round Dance was set aside to sign the Slave Lake Friendship Accord, an agreement between the Sawridge First Nation, the Town of Slave Lake, and the Municipal District, to act in friendship and cooperation when collaborating on regional opportunities and challenges.

The Friendship Accord was formed through the participation of the three communities through the Community Economic Development Initiative led by Cando and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. In January 2014, members of the three Councils came together to

gain an understanding of the culture and governance structures of each respective Council, as well as discuss specific activities that would enhance the already established joint Economic Development Committee.

The Friendship Accord was drafted to continue the dialogue between the Councils and to ensure representatives meet quarterly with a consensus model for decision making.

Chief Twinn, Mayor Warman and Reeve Kerik were in attendance to sign the Accord and to participate in the pipe ceremony, feast and Round Dance ceremony. Each of the CEOs spoke thanks and kind words for the friendship that has developed between the Councils over the past three years — they emphasized the willingness to collaborate on large projects with openness and respect.

Five Friendship Accords were signed at the Round Dance: one being hung in each of the three Council administration offices, one at the Multi-Rec Centre and one to be put in the future Legacy Centre.

SLAVE LAKE FRIENDSHIP ACCORD WHAT IS THE TRI-COUNCIL?

“NOT ONLY HAVE WE WORKED TOGETHER WELL AS COLLEAGUES, WE HAVE ALSO BECOME

WONDERFUL FRIENDS IN THE PROCESS,” said Reeve Kerik at the ceremony.

Since 2011, the Municipal District has participated with the Sawridge First Nation and the Town of Slave Lake in what is called the Tri-Council. The Tri-Council is a body made up of all the elected officials from the First Nation, Town, and MD. Following the wildfires of 2011, it was important to ensure that recovery efforts evolved in a positive and coordinated fashion.

With the assistance of Alberta Municipal Affairs, the MD, First Nation, and the Town adopted the Tri-Council and CAO Secretariat Governance Protocol. This protocol’s purpose is to provide guidance for how the Tri-Council and CAO Secretariat conduct business, and in so doing, ensure consistency, predictability, transparency, and accountability

The CAO Secretariat is made up of the Chief Administrative Officers of the Town and the MD, and the Executive Director of the First Nation, to act as the administration to the Tri-Council. Novel to the protocol is its use of consensus-based decision making, where consensus is achieved when the elected officials of the Tri-Council (in attendance at a meeting) can “live with” the decision taken or endorsed.

As a result of Tri-Council governance, the strategies and projects of the Lesser Slave Lake Regional Wildfire Recovery Plan have been implemented. Tri-Council is now focused on strategic regional cooperation that serves to capitalize on the Slave Lake vicinity as a regional centre in north central Alberta. The focus is critical to ensure that health, school, government, and key business entities choose to come, stay, and grow in our region. Another evolving purpose is to deal with topical matters that extend beyond municipal/First Nation corporate boundaries, such as emergency management, economic development, and regional wellness activities.

It is important to understand that Tri-Council’s existence does not supplant any of the partner’s autonomy and statutory powers to act as a Municipal District, Town or First Nation.

By working together, the region will become a stronger and better place to live and work.

7ADMINISTRATION

KIM DYKE, Regional Economic Development Officer, highlights some of the EDC’s most recent accomplishments, shares some of her own goals and plans for the future, and speaks to the newly launched website and promotional videos. Kim wants to provide residents, visitors, businesses and investors with the best of the best information.

How would you best explain your role & mandate?“My role is to provide economic development advice and bring forward projects that will enhance the communities of the Tri-Council; and my mandate is to increase the amount of investment in business opportunities in the region, to grow the permanent population, and to increase and enhance visitor experiences.”

What are some of the key things that you & the Committee have done to date?

“We’ve really accomplished so much. We started with a strategic plan and identified various goals within that plan. We’ve undertaken a study to help determine how best to deal with affordable housing, and housing strategies, to increase the number of units in the area. This is a big problem at the moment — and obviously in northern Alberta as a whole. Because of the wildfire and subsequent recovery initiatives, we need the additional units to continue with our growth.

We’ve also undertaken a regional growth plan with various Tri-Council members to help us determine where we can grow within the next twenty-five years. For marketing, we’ve developed a website [slavelakeregion.ca] and created and distributed many different resource materials for new businesses, new residents and for visitors.

In an advisory role, I’ve been working with the Smith Community Development Council to assist in their community growth. I’ve also started working closely with some of our local businesses to better understand the opportunities in our business community and how to capitalize on those opportunities.

We’re also participating in the First Nations Community Economic Development Initiative (CEDI), which is a joint initiative of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, Cando and the Tri-Council members. We’re working with the program to enhance the relationship and enhance community economic development.”

What have been your biggest challenges so far?“In all honesty, I really haven’t experienced any major challenges — at least not any that have prevented me from doing my job. I’m very fortunate. The communities are willing to work together — and most importantly, they want to work together.

As a whole, however, one of the biggest challenges for northern Alberta right now is housing. For us, it’s also about land opportunities. Because we’re surrounded by crown land it’s a bit more difficult to grow and expand. But those challenges have always been here. For me, it’s really more about working within the pre-existing challenges…trying to find ways around them and creating solutions.”

Can you tell us more about the new website & promotional videos?

“Our new website went live at the beginning of May. Our goal is to provide as much information as we can to residents, visitors and new businesses. We’re trying to

recruit more people...whether those people are coming as families or as support workers or to source their own business opportunities.

We want to be upfront with our information. Show people why they want to be here. And plant the idea that once they’re here, they’ll never want to leave. We completed six recruitment videos in 2013. The videos have been really great with already about 3,000 views. We’re trying to elevate all our different resources, and are really working with social media and the website to provide newcomers and investors with the best of the best information.”

What are some of your key goals & plans for the future?

“We want to create and implement a housing strategy to increase the number of affordable housing units — not just in Slave Lake, but in the entire region. We want to develop new land planning and growth options. We want to learn more about the labour shortages and how to tackle them; to work closely with local business owners to help them grow their companies, and of course to attract, engage and support new investors and new businesses. We also want to gain as much information as possible to develop a strong business case for a marina so we can capitalize on the region’s beauty.”

Do you have any other comments that you’d like to add?

“I’d like to add that it’s been incredibly interesting working with the three communities. I admire how the Municipal District has tackled challenges and grown hamlets — they should be commended for all their hard work and successes. Being a part of it over the past year and a half has been such an excellent experience both on a personal as well as professional level. I’m very happy to be here.”

WHAT IS THE TRI-COUNCIL? INTERVIEW WITH REGIONAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OFFICER, KIM DYKE

8 PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT

The Municipal District is committed to keeping the public safe and informed about events that impact their lives.

Throughout the years, a wide variety of tools have been used to inform residents before, during and after an emergency or other significant event.

Residents and landowners will soon be able to receive critical, time-sensitive emergency notifications directly through their phone, email and text messaging with the brand new Mass Notification System. The new system is part of the MD’s ongoing commitment to fine tuning our emergency management plan.

Our system will have the ability to rapidly notify a large number of people through a variety of targeted media. Residents can choose multiple ways to be contacted including home, work and mobile phone numbers, text messaging and email addresses. The system will be used in emergency situations or as a powerful and effective part of the municipality’s regular business communications.

The Municipal District will soon be able to send notifications regarding:

• Critical emergency alerts• Severe weather warnings• Public safety notifications (RCMP, fire,

water, utility, transportation alerts)

TWO-WAY communication will be enabled. This will allow recipients to provide an interactive response. Responses can be as simple as message receipt acknowledgment (“I’m OK”) or as complex as “call bridging” (link directly to 911 or an Emergency Operations Centre).

Sign-up to receive emergency and community messages through your preferred method of communication.

If you haven’t already done so, CONTACT the Municipal District with your information!

WHAT IS THE MUNICIPAL ADDRESSING SYSTEM?

Modeled after the Address System found in most major cities, the Municipal Addressing System is widely used by rural municipalities throughout Alberta.

In the Municipal District, each property is designated a municipal address that relates to the range road, township road or named road from which the property’s driveway is built.

FOR PROPERTIES OUTSIDE OF MULTI-PARCEL SUBDIVISIONS

• Addresses are referenced off of the range roads, township roads or named roads • Address numbers increase going north and west• Even address numbers are on the north and west side of the roads and odd addresses

are on the south and on the east side• For properties in multi-parcel subdivisions

Addresses are referenced from where the internal subdivision road comes off of the range road or township road (if the subdivision has more than one entrance, one entrance is arbitrarily chosen as being the address identifier). Lots are assigned a number in a clockwise direction wherever possible.

The Municipal District encourages everyone to keep their municipal address signs posted. The sign will make it easier for visitors to locate your property, but more importantly, it will help emergency crews find you more quickly in case of emergency.

Covering an area of 10,076 square kilometres, the Lesser Slave Lake Regional Fire Services, along with ambulances and RCMP, strive to RESPOND TO 911 calls in the most

effective and timely manner as possible. A crew is likely to find the specific site more quickly if there is a municipal address sign to provide additional direction.

The Municipal District has sent its addressing system to all utility companies, TELUS, and map service agencies (Google, Bing, Yahoo, Mapquest, etc.) in an effort to have them update their mapping data. Ratepayers are advised to be patient, as it will take time for the information to be adopted on these international map systems.

KNOW YOUR MUNICIPAL ADDRESS

Though keeping your municipal address sign posted is important, all Municipal District residents should know their LEGAL LAND DESCRIPTION. We strongly encourage you to write your address down and place it near the phone so it is readily available in the event someone in your household must report an emergency on your property.

MASS NOTIFICATION SYSTEM MUNICIPAL ADDRESSING SYSTEM

9SECTION NAME

PUBLIC INPUT ON LAND USE MATTERS

In 2013, the Municipal District undertook a Municipal Development Plan update. The new plan addressed key issues identified by public and Council, including the following:

• Increased flexibility and clearer criteria respecting the allocation of municipal reserve and environmental reserve (public open space and protection of natural areas and hazard lands) at time of subdivision

• Accommodation of economic development initiatives• Protection and retention of agricultural lands• Implementation of FireSmart principles• Consistency with the requirements of the new

Alberta Land Stewardship Act

LIGHT INDUSTRIAL RESIDENTIAL LAND USE DISTRICT

The Municipal District heard from, and responded to, residents requesting that it deal with conflicts arising from businesses operating within country residential subdivisions. The MD has attempted to address this through policy formation, and has recently created a Light Industrial Residential Land Use District along the Old Smith Highway. Its purpose is to provide for a district that has light industrial business activities along with owner operator residences in appropriate areas.

2014 & BEYOND: AMENDED LAND USE BYLAW & SOUTHSHORE AREA STRUCTURE PLAN

Residents are continuing to request land use regulation changes. Moving forward, Council will be reviewing the Land Use Bylaw. Important items identified for discussion include secondary suites (basement suites, garage suite, and proximate care dwellings) and home based businesses.

Now that the services have been expanded on the south shore of Lesser Slave River, there is an opportunity for limited infill expansion to make better and more efficient use of water, sanitary and road infrastructure. As such, residents within this area will be engaged once the Southshore Area Structure Plan review is in full swing in order to get feedback on policy alternatives.

ENGAGING THE PUBLIC IS A PRIORITY

Public feedback is very valuable for us. Many residents know the history of the area and have a good feel for what is appropriate. Municipal planners have an understanding of what types of development might be sustainable and what types of development constitute good planning. By working together, we can create a great vision for the future of the Municipal District.

MUNICIPAL DISTRICT LAND USE PLANNING POLICY

TEN YEAR BUILDING 2013 VALUE REPORT

YEAR RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL INSTITUTIONAL INDUSTRIAL TOTAL YEARLY NOTES

2004 $4,911,000 $1,230,000 $7,300,000 $1,703,000 $15,144,000 4 demolitions

2005 $4,534,000 $139,000 $1,602,000 $12,048,000 $18,323,000

2006 $7,642,000 $753,000 $42,000 $4,853,000 $13,290,000 3 demolitions

2007 $9,019,000 $341,000 $100,000 $2,243,000 $11,703,000 5 demolitions

2008 $10,046,000 $161,000 $50,000 $1,583,000 $11,840,000 7 demolitions

2009 $5,925,000 $100,000 $65,000 $3,149,000 $9,239,000 11 demolitions

2010 $9,835,000 $70,000 – $2,861,000 $12,766,000 2 demolitions

2011 $27,725,000 $35,000 $2,070,000 $7,616,000 $37,446,000 2 demolitions; 41 fire re-builds

2012 $10,490,000 $749,000 $1,696,000 $67,652,000 $80,587,000 2 demolitions; 8 fire re-builds

2013 $6,783,000 $230,000 $222,000 $18,915,000 $26,150,000 1 demolition; 1 fire re-build

TOTAL $96,910,000 $3,808,000 $13,147,000 $122,623,000 $236,488,000

TEN YEAR HOUSING UNIT STARTS (GROSS)

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

Single Family 34 30 40 48 43 25 45 70 35 29

– Demo/Fire 4 0 3 5 7 11 2 43 9 2

TOTAL 30 30 37 43 36 14 43 27 26 27

10 PROTECTIVE SERVICES

The Municipal District will be offering FREE ATV/UTV training sessions! The purpose of this safety course is to provide skills & training awareness for the youth in our community, as well as to avoid OHV (off-highway vehicle) offence charges.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

» 6 to 11 year olds (under 70cc) » 12 to 15 year olds (70cc to 90cc) » 16 years & older (90cc & over) » MUST HAVE: helmet, safety glasses, gloves, long sleeve shirt, boots (at minimum)

» Parent or Legal Guardian MUST sign an official Release Form

» Class size is 4 to 6 depending on ages » Course will be approximately 5 to 7 hours

REGISTRATION

Contact our office at 780.849.4888 for more information, and/or to have your name added to the list!

ATV/UTV USERS: DO NOT TRESPASS ON PRIVATE PROPERTY. PLEASE RESPECT PUBLIC LAND.

Funding in part by the Alberta Traffic Safety Fund.

STAYUPRIGHT

ATV/UTVTRAINING

11REGIONAL FIRE SERVICE

LESSER SLAVE REGIONAL FIRE SERVICE JUNIOR FIRE FIGHTER PROGRAM

The Lesser Slave Regional Fire Service (LSRFS) is committed to protecting life, property, and the environment from fire, hazardous materials, natural disasters, and other emergencies.

A department of the Town of Slave Lake, the LSRFS provides full-time, contract operation of the municipality’s four fire stations, located in Widewater, Smith, Flatbush and Mitsue. Their composite fire services are comprised of full-time, casual and volunteer fire fighters totaling over seventy members. The response area spans six communities and over 10,000 square kilometers.

The Lesser Slave Regional Fire Service:

• Responds to emergencies and other requests for assistance• Plans for and takes action to prevent emergencies to reduce impact• Coordinates regional emergency response efforts• Works diligently to protect the community through training,

education and fire prevention VOLUNTEER QUALIFICATIONS

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Minimum 18 years of age• Eligible for employment in Canada• Holds valid Class 5 Alberta Operators License• Healthy and active (conducive to physical

aspects of operations)• Self-motivated and team oriented• Ability to work under stressful conditions,

extreme temperatures and for extended periods of time

MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS

• Criminal Record check, RCMP (Slave Lake Detachment)

• Alberta Drivers Abstract• Vaccination proof for Mumps, Measles,

Rubella, Tetanus, Diphtheria, Hepatitis B

VISIT MD124.CA TO LEARN MORE!

Each year the LSRFS mentors and trains a small group of capable and energetic teenagers for potential careers as fire fighters, EMTs, police, or forestry officers!

During the program, youth will undertake training in wild land fires, structural fires, patient handling, vehicle extrication, hose streams, pump operation, radio operations, bomber base and aircraft orientations, live fire training, fire extinguisher training, ropes and knots, ladders, fire science and theory.

Teenagers between 14 to 17 years of age, living in Slave Lake or the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River, who are up for the challenge, are encouraged to apply!

LSRFS is now recruiting for VOLUNTEER FIRE FIGHTERS in the departments of Southshore, Mitsue, Smith, Flatbush and Slave Lake.

GET IN TOUCH WITH LSRFS TO SEE HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED!

PHONE: 780.849.4110 EMAIL: [email protected]

VOLUNTEER FIRE FIGHTERS WANTED!

12 REGIONAL INITIATIVES

THE LESSER SLAVE WATERSHED COUNCIL

ABOUT THE LSWC

The LSWC is the official Watershed Planning and Advisory Council (WPAC) as designated by the Government of Alberta in 2007.

The LSWC Board is made up of volunteer members from the following areas:

• Town of High Prairie• Town of Slave Lake• Municipal District of Big Lakes• Municipal District of Lesser Slave River• First Nations• Métis Settlements• Forestry• Recreation and Tournaments• Environmental Non-Government Organizations• Commercial Fisherman• Cottage and Cabin Owners• Agriculture• Oil and Gas Industry• Provincial Government• Federal Government

Alberta has eleven WPAC’s working in their individual watersheds to:

• Report on the health of the watershed• Educate and inform the public and stakeholders about

their watersheds, watershed risks and threats, and promote watershed stewardship

• Provide recommendations on water management to government and stakeholders and encourage adoption of best management practices

• Engage governments and stakeholders in the development of a watershed management plan that will outline what is required to achieve the goals of a healthy sustainable watershed in the future

The LSWC holds Annual General Meetings. Board members who are not appointed by their government are nominated and elected in two-year terms.

Since 2007, the LSWC has completed a number of additional projects including:

• Little Green Thumbs classroom gardens (2013)• Lesser Slave Lake Stewardship Handbook (2013) • Water quality monitoring of 16 tributaries

and LSL (2008-2013)• Hosted provincial WPAC Summit (2012)• Lesser Slave River Water Management Plan (2010)• State of the Watershed Report (2009)• Living by water home site consultations (2008)• Hydraulic and hydrologic watershed model (2008)

UPCOMING PROJECTS

As of June 2014, the LSWC is working on an updated technical report that will present the latest and most complete data on water quality, nutrient loading, fish population and habitat.

This report will provide key information to our local governments and stakeholders, and technical information to the Steering Committee of the Integrated Watershed Management Planning project. An IWMP Terms of Reference will be released for public and stakeholder review/comment later in 2014.

FISHING LINE RECYCLING

You may have noticed these signs and containers around the lake. The LSWC launched this program in 2011 and aims to reduce the amount of discarded fishing line on our shorelines and in our waterways. Do your part to keep the shores of Lesser Slave Lake clean and safe for fish and wildlife. We have extra signs and containers available upon request!

PROMOTING HEALTHY RIPARIAN AREAS & STABLE STREAM BANKS

The riparian area is the “green zone” of vegetation adjacent to a lake, stream or wetland. Did you know that 85% of species depend on the riparian area for at least a part of their life cycle? A healthy riparian area acts as a filter, removing sediment, nutrients, and heavy metals from water as it makes its way to a water body. Streams with a healthy riparian zone also have stable banks with less erosion due to the network of roots holding soil in place.

The LSWC purchased this wind and solar watering system in 2011 with funding from Pennwest. Our partners at the Peace Country Beef and Forage Association use it each year as a tool to promote and demonstrate the ease of off-stream livestock watering to producers in the watershed.

A SAMPLING OF LSWC PROJECTS

LSWC CONTACT INFORMATION

PHONE: 780.523.9800FAX: 780.523.9801

EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: LSWC.ca

FACEBOOK: facebook.com/LSWC2012 TWITTER: @abLSWC

13SECTION NAME

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS2013 AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

14 FINANCE

• Regional Water System upgrades and expansion including new waterline infrastructure in the Poplar Lane and Bayer Road areas, new treated water reservoir and booster station for the Southshore communities of Wagner, Widewater and Canyon Creek as well as multiple raw water intake enhancements ($27M)

• Resurfacing of the Tollenaar Bridge north of Mitsue Industrial Park ($385,000)

• Chip sealing of the West Mitsue Industrial Road ($540,000)

• Construction of a new Community Complex and Recreation Facility in Smith ($3M)

• Completion of the Paving Project along Southshore Drive ($800,000)

• Renovation of the Flatbush Hall including new kitchen equipment ($65,000)

• Widewater Complex roof repairs ($200,000)

• Development of recreational areas in Canyon Creek and Widewater ($375,000)

• Installation of an odour reducing process to the Widewater wastewater collection system ($250,000)

• Replacement of the bridge structure on Muskeg Road near the municipal boat launch on Lesser Slave River ($1.2M)

• Installation of emergency backup generators at key municipal facilities as part of the regional recovery plan ($600,000)

• Fleet management budget includes the replacement of a grader for road maintenance, a new rubber tired backhoe, a spray truck for Agricultural Services and four new pickup trucks

2014 CAPITAL BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS

EPR GORDON C. FERGUSON & CO.CERTIFIED GENERAL ACCOUNTANTS MANAGEMENT CONSULTANTS

TO THE MEMBERS OF COUNCIL OF: Municipal District of Lesser Slave River No. 124

Report on the Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying financial statements of the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River No.124, which comprise the Statement of Financial Position as at December 31, 2013 and the Statement of Operations, Statement of Change in Net Financial Assets and the Statement of Cash Flows for the year then ended, and a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory information.

Management’s Responsibility for the Financial Statements

Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these financial statements in accordance with Canadian public sector accounting standards, and for such internal control as management determines is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

Auditor’s Responsibility

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit. We conducted our audit in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform an audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement.

An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgment, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error.

In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity’s preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal control. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements.

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.

Opinion

In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material aspects, the financial position of the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River No. 124 as at December 31, 2013 and the results of its financial activities and the changes in its financial position for the year then ended in accordance with Canadian public sector accounting standards.

EPR GORDON C. FERGUSON & CO.CERTIFIED GENERAL ACCOUNTANTS

MANAGEMENT CONSULTANTS

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

SLAVE LAKE, ALBERTAAPRIL 09, 2014

Telephone: 780.849.4949 Fax: 780.849.3401 Email: [email protected] Address: 405 6th Avenue SW, Slave Lake, Alberta TOG 2A4

15FINANCE

ANNUAL PHOTO CONTEST / 2014

SEPTEMBER 30, 2014FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT MD124.CA

CATEGORIES

DEADLINE TO SUBMIT

CAPTURE THE NORTH

WORKING IN THE NORTH Photos of northern Albertans at work, for example: in the office, at the job site, in the field, on the ward, in the bush.

NORTHERN COMMUNITY Photos of northern Alberta’s towns, cities, hamlets and homesteads.

1ST PRIZE $200 2ND PRIZE $100

FUN OUTSIDE Activities such as camping, ATVs, fishing, sledding, skiing…whatever fun outdoor activities you can enjoy in northern Alberta!

WILD NORTH Wild animals, insects, flowers, plants and the natural landscapes where they live and grow.

1ST PRIZE $100 2ND PRIZE $50

16 FINANCE

2013 BUDGET 2013 ACTUAL 2012 ACTUAL

REVENUE

Net municipal property taxes (Schedule 2) $12,228,279 $12,254,583 $11,628,738

User fees and sales of goods $3,212,247 $1,361,788 $1,804,439

Government transfers (Schedule 3) $992,886 $1,632,266 $1,681,076

Investment income $215,000 $433,343 $308,211

Penalties and costs of taxes $56,831 $68,605 $52,079

Licenses and permits $60,000 $45,650 $84,584

Gain on disposal of capital assets – $104,017 $188,495

Other $512,548 $1,111,446 $173,866

TOTAL REVENUE $17,277,791 $17,011,698 $15,921,488

EXPENSES

Legislative $301,268 $232,108 $260,384

Administration $2,557,658 $2,250,505 $1,822,955

Bylaw, fire and ambulance $2,153,354 $929,172 $1,737,758

Roads, streets, walks, lighting $4,642,791 $3,442,067 $3,857,942

Common services $1,500,588 $1,291,349 $695,807

Water supply and distribution $2,032,512 $1,525,254 $1,532,522

Wastewater treatment and disposal $1,373,266 $1,022,313 $970,117

Waste management $336,560 $257,402 $235,554

Family and community support $100,486 $91,419 $86,257

Agriculture, planning and development $1,106,278 $609,994 $741,183

Parks, recreation, culture $573,559 $290,600 $303,746

Amortization – $6,317,434 $6,192,257

Other $300,000 $118,000 $625,000

Loss on disposal of capital assets – – –

TOTAL EXPENSES $16,978,320 $18,377,617 $19,061,482

EXCESS (SHORTFALL) OF REVENUE OVER EXPENSES $299,471 ($1,365,919) ($3,139,994)

Government transfers for capital (Schedule 3) $24,136,734 $3,392,307 $4,906,264

Contributed assets – – –

Other – – –

$24,436,205 $2,026,388 $1,766,270

ACCUMULATED SURPLUS, BEGINNNING OF YEAR $104,221,470 $104,221,470 $102,455,200

ACCUMULATED SURPLUS, END OF YEAR $128,657,675 $106,247,858 $104,221,470

MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF LESSER SLAVE RIVER NO.124STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS — DECEMBER 31, 2013

YOUR LAND. YOUR SNOW.A gentle reminder…

SNOW that falls on your property is your responsibility. Please do not push your snow onto roads, ditches or right-of-ways. Keeping your snow on your land helps prevent dangerous drifting, icy roads and flooding.

We appreciate your cooperation!

MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF LESSER SLAVE RIVER NO.124STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION — DECEMBER 31, 2013

17FINANCE

2013 ACTUAL 2012 ACTUAL

FINANCIAL ASSETS

Cash $24,231,952 $21,066,232

Receivables

Taxes and grants in lieu of taxes $321,422 $270,318

Trade and other receivables $2,975,862 $3,732,210

Other long term receivables $1,923,104 $1,410,019

Land held for resale 1 1

Investments $178,755 $81,426

$29,631,096 $26,560,206

LIABILITIES

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $2,317,326 $1,648,589

Deposit liabilities $512,303 $220,575

Deferred revenue $5,522,167 $4,699,532

Employee benefit obligations $266,372 $213,893

Reclamation liabilities $253,280 $243,280

Long term debt $3,988,207 $3,961,987

$12,859,655 $10,987,856

NET FINANCIAL ASSETS $16,771,441 $15,572,350

NON-FINANCIAL ASSETS

Capital assets $88,322,009 $87,123,581

Inventory of consumption $949,344 $1,368,055

Prepaid expense $205,064 $157,484

$89,476,417 $88,649,120

ACCUMULATED SURPLUS $106,247,858 $104,221,470

MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF LESSER SLAVE RIVER NO.124STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION — DECEMBER 31, 2013


CONSOLIDATED EXPENDITURES BY OBJECT

Salaries, wages and benefits $5,451,648 $5,048,499 $4,671,577

Contracted and general services $7,774,804 $3,913,342 $3,992,241

Materials, goods and utilities $2,683,273 $2,131,868 $2,386,354

Provision for allowances – $8,957 $15,471

Transfers to local boards and agencies $882,739 $762,813 $1,608,105

Bank charges and short term interest $2,000 $596 $4,378

Interest on long term debt $183,855 $194,108 $191,099

Amortization – $6,317,434 $6,192,257

Loss on disposal of assets – – –

$16,978,320 $18,377,617 $19,061,482

MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF LESSER SLAVE RIVER NO. 124SCHEDULE OF EXPENDITURES BY OBJECT (SCHEDULE 4) — DECEMBER 31, 2013

DID YOU KNOW THE MD HAS:

1534 RESIDENCES

698KM OF MUNICIPAL ROADS (NOT INCLUDING HIGHWAYS)

64.1KM OF WASTEWATER MAINS

60 BRIDGES

56 FULL-TIME POSITIONS

7HAMLETS 5 GRADERS

4 FIREHALLS

1 EXCAVATOR

2 LOADERS

61.3KM OF WATER MAINS+

NEWCOMER’S CONTACT LISTIf you are a new resident in the Slave Lake Region, you’ll have many things to check off your list — find a place to call home, hook-up utilities and so much more. Visit www.slavelakeregion.ca for a list of helpful contacts that can assist you in settling into the area!

18 FINANCE

SALARY & BENEFITS DISCLOSURE

Disclosure of salaries and benefits for Municipal Officials, the Chief Administrative Officer and designated Officers as required by Alberta Regulation 313/2000 is as follows:

(1)Salary: Regular base pay, bonuses, overtime, lump sum payments, gross honoraria and any other direct cash remuneration.

(2)Benefits and allowances: Employer’s share of all employee benefits and contributions or payments made on behalf of employees including pension, health care, dental coverage, vision coverage, group life insurance, accidental disability and dismemberment insurance, long and short-term disability plans, professional membership and tuition.


NET INFLOW (OUTFLOW) OF CASH RELATED TO THE FOLLOWING ACTIVITIES

OPERATING ACTIVITIES

Excess of revenues over expenses $2,026,388 $1,766,270

Non-cash items included in excess of revenues over expenses

Amortization of tangible capital assets $6,317,434 $6,192,257

Gain on disposal of tangible capital assets ($104,017) –

Net change in non-cash operating working capital balances

Decrease (increase) in taxes and grants in place ($51,104) ($96,032)

Decrease (increase) in trade and other receivables $756,347 $2,587,961

Decrease (increase) in long-term receivables ($513,085) $565,044

Decrease (increase) in investments ($97,328) ($3,331)

Decrease (increase) in prepaid expenses ($47,580) ($19,075)

Decrease (increase) in inventory for consumption $418,710 $197,064

Increase (decrease) in accounts payable and accrued liabilites $671,836 ($708,308)

Increase (decrease) in deposit liabilities $291,728 ($142,348)

Increase (decrease) in deferred revenue $819,536 $3,043,591

Increase (decrease) in employee benefit obligations $52,479 $56,865

Increase (decrease) in closure and post-closure costs $10,000 $10,000

Cash provided by operating transactions $10,551,344 $13,449,958

CAPITAL ACTIVITIES

Acquisition of tangible capital assets ($7,522,650) ($7,315,285)

Sale of capital assets $110,806 –

Cash applied to capital transactions ($7,411,844) ($7,315,285)

FINANCING ACTIVITIES

Long term debt issued $326,835 –

Long term debt repaid ($300,615) ($193,560)

Cash provided by (applied to) financing transactions $26,220 ($193,560)

CHANGE IN CASH AND EQUIVALENTS DURING THE YEAR $3,165,720 $5,941,113

CASH AND EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF YEAR $21,066,232 $15,125,119

CASH AND EQUIVALENTS AT END OF YEAR $24,231,952 $21,066,232

MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF LESSER SLAVE RIVER NO.124STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS — DECEMBER 31, 2013

2013 2012

COUNCILLORS SALARY (1) BENEFITS & ALLOWANCES (2) TOTAL TOTAL

Kerik $22,842 $246 $23,088 $23,472

Garratt $27,910 $246 $28,156 $37,072

Acton $18,236 $246 $18,482 $22,803

Commins $18,080 $246 $18,326 $29,818

Esau $20,030 $246 $20,276 $23,089

Fulmore $18,932 $246 $19,178 $20,447

Horton $4,150 – $4,150 –

Pearson $4,370 – $4,370 –

Rosche $18,757 $246 $19,003 $16,707

Skrynyk $4,150 – $4,150 –

Municipal Manager $177,797 $28,289 $206,086 $189,126

TOTAL $335,254 $30,011 $365,265 $362,534

MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF LESSER SLAVE RIVER NO.1242013 SALARY AND BENEFITS DISCLOSURE

“WITH BLUE SKIES, LAKES, STREAMS AND RIVERS, SUMMER EVENTS, AND NEAT PLACES TO ENJOY IN LESSER SLAVE RIVER, TAKE THE OPPORTUNITY

TO ENJOY WHAT MAKES THIS AREA A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE!”

— Allan Winarski, CAO

19FINANCE

MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF LESSER SLAVE RIVER NO.1242013 SALARY AND BENEFITS DISCLOSURE


TRANSFERS FOR OPERATING

Provincial government $992,885 $1,632,266 $1,681,076

Federal government – – –

Other local governments – – –

$992,885 $1,632,266 $1,681,076

TRANSFERS FOR CAPITAL

Provincial government $24,136,734 $3,392,307 $4,906,264

Federal government – – –

Other local governments – – –

$24,136,734 $3,392,307 $4,906,264

TOTAL GOVERNMENT TRANSFERS $25,129,619 $5,024,573 $6,587,340

MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF LESSER SLAVE RIVER NO.124SCHEDULE OF GOVERNMENT TRANSFERS (SCHEDULE 3) — DECEMBER 31, 2013

UNRESTRICTED SURPLUS

RESTRICTED SURPLUS

EQUITY IN TANGIBLE

CAPITAL ASSETS2013 2012

BALANCE, BEGINNING OF YEAR $677,138 $17,506,977 $86,037,355 $104,221,470 $102,455,200

Excess (deficiency) of revenue over expenses $8,343,821 – ($6,317,433) $2,026,388 $1,766,270

Transfer to capital reserves ($4,892,140) $4,892,140 – – –

Unrestricted funds designated for future use ($146,000) $146,000 – – –

Restricted funds used for operations $81,125 ($81,125) – – –

Restricted funds used for tangible capital assets – ($4,690,496) $4,690,496 – –

Current year funds used for tangible capital assets ($2,832,155) – $2,832,155 – –

Contributed tangible capital assets – – – – –

Disposal of tangible capital assets $6,789 – ($6,789) – –

Long term debt repaid ($67,292) – $67,292 – –

CHANGE IN ACCUMULATED SURPLUS $494,148 $266,519 $1,265,721 $2,026,388 $1,766,270

BALANCE, END OF YEAR $1,171,286 $17,773,496 $87,303,076 $106,247,858 $104,221,470

MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF LESSER SLAVE RIVER NO.124STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN ACCUMULATED SURPLUS — DECEMBER 31, 2013

DID YOU KNOW?...

2013 MUNICIPAL EXPENDITURES

That at the end of 2013, the MD has assets valued at just over $88 MILLION. They are broken down as follows:

Land $2,513,651

Roads $37,384,598

Bridges $5,774,223

Water Systems $3,560,641

Wastewater Systems $11,036,183

Buildings & Facilities $18,005,233

Machinery & Equipment $3,826,834

Vehicles $435,223

Transportation $9,458,590

Capital Projects $6,592,209

Environmental Services

$3,997,814

Administration $2,401,509

Protective Services

$1,134,840

Planning & Development $183,661

FCSS $91,419

Agriculture & Economic Development $509,489

Council $232,108

Recreation & Culture $368,187

38%

26%

16%

10%

1%

0%

2%

1%

1%25%

20

MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF LESSER SLAVE RIVER NO.124STATEMENT OF CHANGE IN NET FINANCIAL ASSETS — DECEMBER 31, 2013

LANDENGINEERED STRUCTURES

BUILDING & FACILITIES

MACHINARY & EQUIPMENT

VEHICLESWORK IN

PROGRESS2013 2012

COST

BALANCE, BEGINNING OF YEAR $2,513,651 $121,889,437 $28,499,163 $7,012,602 $1,220,976 $865,119 $162,000,948 $154,685,663

Restatement/adjustment – $844,637 – $85,804 – – $930,441 –

Acquisition of tangible capital assets – $167,593 $2,685 $834,311 $184,359 $5,403,261 $6,592,209 $7,315,285

Transfer in (out) of WIP – $120,328 – $362,629 – ($482,957) – –

Disposal of tangible capital assets – – – ($327,918) ($300,653) – ($628,571) –

BALANCE, END OF YEAR $2,513,651 $123,021,995 $28,501,848 $7,967,428 $1,104,682 $5,785,423 $168,895,027 $162,000,948

ACCUMULATED AMORTIZATION

BALANCE, BEGINNING OF YEAR – $61,054,973 $9,522,880 $3,515,467 $784,047 – $74,877,367 $68,685,109

Restatement/adjustment – – – – – – –

Annual amortization – $4,211,377 $973,735 $953,045 $179,277 – $6,317,434 $6,192,258

Accumulated amortization on assets disposed of – – – ($327,918) ($293,865) – ($621,783) –

BALANCE, END OF YEAR – $65,266,350 $10,496,615 $4,140,594 $669,459 – $80,573,018 $74,877,367

NET BOOK VALUE, DECEMBER 31, 2013 $2,513,651 $57,755,645 $18,006233 $3,826,834 $435,223 $5,785,423 $88,322,009 –

NET BOOK VALUE, DECEMBER 31, 2012 $2,513,651 $60,834,464 $18.976,283 $3,497,135 $436,929 $865,119 – $87,123,581


TAXATION

Real property taxes $10,591,977 $10,630,116 $9,779,577

Linear property taxes $6,256,314 $6,256,256 $5,905,087

Government grants in place of property taxes – $47,270 $15,283

Special assesments and local improvement taxes – – –

$16,848,291 $16,933,642 $15,699,947

REQUISITIONS

Alberta school foundation fund $4,018,532 $4,077,578 $3,751,083

Seniors lodges $601,480 $601,481 $320,126

$4,620,012 $4,679,059 $4,071,209

NET MUNICIPAL TAXES $12,228,279 $12,254,583 $11,628,738

MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF LESSER SLAVE RIVER NO.124SCHEDULE OF PROPERTY TAXES AND OTHER TAXES (SCHEDULE 2) — DECEMBER 31, 2013

MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF LESSER SLAVE RIVER NO.124SCHEDULE OF TANGIBLE CAPITAL ASSETS (SCHEDULE 1) — DECEMBER 31, 2013

TIPPTAX INSTALLMENT PAYMENT PLAN (TIPP)

The Tax Installment Payment Plan (TIPP) is a program available to Municipal District residents, which allows you to pay your property tax on a monthly basis (rather than in a lump-sum payment!).

Monthly payments are automatically withdrawn from your bank account. TIPP makes budgeting easier and minimizes the risk of late payment penalties.

Arrangements must be made prior to January 1, 2015. Some conditions apply.

For more information, please contact Debbie Conrad at 780.849.4888.

FINANCE

21

GENERAL GOVERNMENT

PROTECTIVE SERVICES

TRANSPORTATION SERVICES

ENVIRONMENTALSERVICES

PLANNING &DEVELOPMENT

RECREATION & CULTURE

TOTAL

REVENUE

Net municipal taxes $12,254,583 – – – – – $12,254,583

Government transfers $277,389 $2,304,298 $1,777,459 $428,145 $236,782 $500 $5,024,573

User fees and sales of goods $13,970 $425 $250,803 $1,039,648 $42,897 $14,045 $1,361,788

Investment income $433,343 – – – – – $433,343

Other revenues $117,420 $47,956 $104,017 $1,036,450 $19,875 $4,000 $1,329,718

$13,096,705 $2,352,679 $2,132,279 $2,504,243 $299,554 $18,545 $20,404,005

EXPENSES

Contract and general services $1,064,150 $271,444 $1,335,847 $1,055,219 $147,012 $39,810 $3,913,482

Salaries and wages $1,262,515 $289,506 $2,015,951 $1,051,583 $427,040 $1,764 $5,048,359

Goods and supplies $127,847 $108,230 $1,321,619 $491,623 $56,599 $25,950 $2,131,868

Transfers to local boards $125,645 $259,992 $60,000 $23,337 $70,763 $223,076 $762,813

Long term debt interest – – – $194,108 – – $194,108

Other expenses $7,929 – – $1,624 – – $9,553

$2,588,086 $929,172 $4,733,417 $2,817,494 $701,414 $290,600 $12,060,183

NET REVENUE BEFORE AMORTIZATION $10,508,619 $1,423,507 ($2,601,138) ($313,251) ($401,860) ($272,055) $8,343,822

Amortization ($110,984) ($205,668) ($4,725,178) ($1,198,017) – ($77,587) ($6,317,434)

NET REVENUE $10,397,635 $1,217,839 ($7,326,316) ($1,511,268) ($401,860) ($349,642) $2,026,388

2013 TAX REVENUE BY ASSESSMENT CLASS


EXCESS OF REVENUES OVER EXPENSE $2,026,388 $1,766,270

Acquisition of tangible capital assets ($7,522,650) ($7,315,285)

Proceeds on disposal of tangible capital assets $110,806 –

Amortization of tangible capital assets $6,317,434 $6,192,257

Gain on disposal of tangible capital assets ($104,017) –

($1,198,427) ($1,123,028)

Change in inventory consumption $418,710 $197,064

Change in prepaid expenses ($47,580) ($19,075)

$371,130 $177,989

INCREASE IN NET FINANCIAL ASSETS $1,199,091 $821,231

NET FINANCIAL ASSETS, BEGINNING OF YEAR $15,572,350 $14,751,119

NET FINANCIAL ASSETS, END OF YEAR $16,771,441 $15,572,350

MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF LESSER SLAVE RIVER NO.124STATEMENT OF CHANGE IN NET FINANCIAL ASSETS — DECEMBER 31, 2013

MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF LESSER SLAVE RIVER NO.124SCHEDULE OF SEGMENTED DISCLOSURE (SCHEDULE 5) — DECEMBER 31, 2013

$6,256,257

$1,111,340

$1,520,269

$63,857

$3,288,762

51%

09%

12%

01%

27%

LINEAR

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RESIDENTIAL

FARMLAND

MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT

FINANCE

22 COMMUNITY

Smith, located at the junction of the Lesser Slave and Athabasca rivers, has had an amazing year! With their CENTENNIAL YEAR approaching, a group of local residents and groups have come together to revitalize the hamlet’s economy, growth and community pride.

The Smith School, which many consider to be a cornerstone of the community, began the ‘Leader in Me’ series. This has led to staff and student participation in making improvements in the exterior and interior look of the school as well as learning positive attitudes which will benefit the students throughout their lives. Programs such as the ‘Leader in Me’, coupled with small town living and affordable housing, makes Smith a top choice for young families.

In celebration of our Centennial, S.H.A.R.A. (Smith Hondo Agricultural Recreation Association) has been busy planning a phenomenal ‘Fall Fair and Rodeo’ to be held on August 29th to 31th. The 2014 theme is “Reflections of Our Rivers, Rails and Wagon Trails”. The community has come together to work around the absence of the Multi-Rec Centre. To keep up to date on the fall fair and other activities presented by S.H.A.R.A., please visit: www.sharasociety.ca.

On May 17th, Alberta’s first official geotour, The Smith Centennial Geocaching Tour was launched! This fun, free activity is good for all ages and can be played 24/7/365. It’s like a worldwide treasure hunt played by using a GPS or smart phone app. There’s also a book of 100 stories of our history that is interactive with the geotour. It can be used in place of the GPS for many caches and is available at local businesses.

Geocaches are hidden containers that have their GPS coordinates marked. Other players search them out, sign the log and, if they choose, trade items within the caches. For more info on geocaching and this tour, visit: www.geocaching.com/adventures/geotours/smith-geocaching.

CHECK OUT our website for all community related information: www.SmithAlberta.com.

SMITH CENTENNIAL CELEBRATIONS

Mirror Landing, Alberta (about 1913).

Athabasca Forwarding Company building on the left. Steamboat Northland Sun is docked at Mirror Landing.

The Smith Railway station (about 1927). It was a stop on an automobile trip that travelled the Edmonton/Athabasca/Peace River Highway.

The Northland Sun at Mirror Landing.

The Northland Sun docked at Mirror Landing.Photos courtesy of Athabasca Archives.

23UTILITIES

One of the key objectives of Tri-Council following the 2011 wildfire was to implement a Regional Water Network that would improve the reliability and safety of treated water supply and availability of water for fire suppression in the Municipal District, the Town of Slave Lake and Sawridge First Nation, maximizing the use of existing assets.

This need was identified when all three of the communities were at risk of being cut off from water supply during the fire. The fire highlighted the risk of a treatment facility being damaged or destroyed, losing power service, and contamination or damage of the raw water source or potable water supply during a fire or other catastrophic event.

The service areas considered for the Regional Water Recovery Project included:

• Town of Slave Lake (including south and waterfront expansion areas)

• Southshore Communities (Canyon Creek, Widewater, and Wagner)

• Mitsue Industrial Area• Poplar Lane• Sawridge First Nation• Limited rural areas within the MD No.124

(Assineau, Marten Beach, Bayer Road)

Associated Engineering was commissioned by the Tri-Council to complete a Regional Water Recovery Scoping Study for the region.

Associated Engineering has a long history in this region, including the development of Slave Lake and Canyon Creek water treatment plants, provision of water distribution master planning for both the Town and Southshore areas, and previous evaluation of the Poplar Lane Water Co-op system.

The Regional Water Recovery Scoping Study developed a staged regional water supply and transmission concept. The system is staged such that it provides immediate relief to critical areas and redundancy and reliability in later phases, including:

• Treated light flow watermain with fire protection to Poplar Lane

• Treated high flow watermain with fire protection to Bayer Road/Sawridge First Nation

• Booster Station and Widewater Reservoir• Raw Water Intake and Pump Station for

the Town of Slave Lake• Raw water pipeline with fire protection from

Wagner to Town of Slave Lake (along Highway 2 through the Sawridge First Nation)

• Town of Slave Lake Water Treatment Plant modifications

Total recovery funding approved for this project is $27 million. Because of the MD’s ongoing Boil Water Order for the Mitsue area, this stage of the project took priority. The Poplar Lane project is underway with completion planned for the end of August 2014.

NuEdge Construction was the successful bidder with the expected project cost of $3.7 million. The tender for Bayer Road has been awarded to Weaver Welding Ltd. at an estimated cost of $2.7 million. It is expected to begin July 1 with an estimated completion date of October 31, 2014.

The reservoir and booster station, as well as the raw water intake, will be done July 15 to March 31, 2015 and February 1 to October 31, 2015, respectively.

REGIONAL WATERLINE PROJECT UNDERWAY

24 TRANSPORTATION & INFRASTRUCTURE

The Municipal District has thousands of culverts throughout the road network which serve as a critical function in the management of surface water flow. Culverts are installed under roads, road approaches and highways in various locations for the movement of water that might otherwise have the natural path blocked.

Culverts can last for about 50 years, but unexpected damage requires earlier repair or replacement. Equipment such as mowers and graders performing winter and summer routine maintenance tasks can damage the culverts. In some cases, culverts undergo general wear and tear from the weather, especially following major storms or the freeze thaw cycle of spring.

During 2014, the MD will be doing maintenance and replacement on a number of culverts throughout the road network. In some cases, culverts will be right-sized to increase the overall water flow capacity. In areas where gradients are shallow and the depth of cover on top of the culvert is thin, culverts will be twinned to allow the increased flow. Culvert installation work will be completed on a prioritized basis. Ditch remediation and re-profiling as well as the removal of trees and other vegetation from road allowances may also be undertaken as a result of installing culverts.

Problems with culverts are usually reported by Grader Operators when they are performing regular maintenance work. Residents can also contact the MD office should they notice any problems. When a problem is reported, crews will complete an inspection and then schedule the necessary repairs or replacements.

CULVERT OPERATIONS

Every year the Municipal District plans its Annual Brushing Program along MD roads using various types of equipment and man power. There are a number of reasons why the removal of roadside vegetation takes place. The most obvious is to provide safer roads by providing better sightlines at intersections and driveway approaches for oncoming traffic. In many parts of the MD, wildlife is prevalent and many animals have been hit by vehicles because drivers had no warning of their presence due to brush in proximity of the roadway.

During the winter months, trees and brush on the windward side of the road tend to trap snow and create drifts across the driving lanes. These same areas in the spring are typically the last to thaw because of the shading, and can produce icy conditions even after surrounding areas have thawed.

While safety is the main priority of the Annual Brushing Program, the Municipal District also recognizes the value of roadside vegetation for controlling water run-off and contributing to the rural character of country roads. Crews strive to establish safe roads without the loss of windbreaks for yard sites or unnecessary loss of scenic beauty.

So as the roadside clearing work begins, WATCH OUT for the equipment, and for the men and women working in your areas. Please drive safe.

ROAD BRUSHING PROGRAM

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CULVERT OPERATIONS

MAXIMUM RENTAL PERIOD FOR EQUIPMENT IS (3) THREE DAYS, AT THE DISCRETION OF THE AGRICULTURAL FIELDMAN.

AGRICULTURE SERVICE BOARD

WEED CONTROL IN THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT

The Weed Control Act is legislation set out by the Government of Alberta. The Province of Alberta requires municipalities to appoint inspectors under the Act. In this legislation there are two categories of weeds: Prohibited Noxious and Noxious. Landowners are required to destroy prohibited noxious weeds by destroying all plant parts or rendering reproductive parts unviable. Noxious weeds must be controlled, which means the plant must not spread. The Weed Control Regulations lists which weeds are designated as prohibited noxious or noxious. Assistance with plant identification is available through the Municipal District’s Agricultural Service Board staff.

PREVENTION IS KEY IN THE BATTLE AGAINST INVASIVE WEEDS

Weeds can be incredibly costly to control once they have an established population. One plant can turn into a full infestation in just a few years when left unchecked. The key to keeping costs at a minimum is prevention. Catching a newly introduced weed as soon as possible helps to prevent the spread and establishment of that weed. It is the job of our Municipal Weed Inspectors to inspect public and private land for noxious and prohibited noxious weeds. They keep an inventory of the weeds in the municipality and notify landowners to control or destroy the problem plants. The Weed Inspectors also inspect municipally-owned land. Weeds are then reported to the Municipal District’s Agricultural Fieldman, and a plan for controlling or destroying the weeds is executed by municipal employees.

THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT & THE TOWN OF SLAVE LAKE PARTNER IN THE CAMPAIGN AGAINST WEEDS

In 2014, the Municipal District and the Town of Slave Lake entered into a partnership to help clean up problem plants in Slave Lake. A Weed Inspector, shared by the Town and the municipality, will be conducting an inventory of weeds over the course of the summer. Town residents are also be welcome to contact the Municipal District’s Weed Inspector with their weed questions.

SERVICES WE PROVIDE TO RATEPAYERS

• Agricultural rental equipment• Soil, feed and seed testing program• One-on-one farm calls and kitchen table meetings• Custom spraying program• Veterinary Services Incorporated (VSI) Program• Weed Control Partnership Program• Shelterbelt tree application and distribution program

STOP THE SPREAD OF NOXIOUS WEEDS

EQUIPMENT RENTAL RATE DEPOSIT

16 FT. ULTRAPACKER Must be transported

by tractor or tow vehicle$6/acre $100.00

FERTILIZER SPREADER $20 service charge if unit is

used to transport product from retail to user property

$0.50/acre $100.00

ATV MOUNT SEEDER $20/day $50.00

ATV MOUNT SPRAYER no charge $50.00

TRAILER SPRAYER no charge $100.00

BACK PACK SPRAYERS no charge $50.00

SOIL SAMPLERS no charge $50.00

FORAGE & SILAGE SAMPLERS no charge $50.00

RFID TAG READER no charge $200.00

ASB AGRICULTURAL RENTAL EQUIPMENT RATES & DAMAGE DEPOSITS

The Agriculture Service Board has the following EQUIPMENT AVAILABLE for rent to Municipal District ratepayers (on a first-come, first-served basis).

FOR INQUIRIES OR TO BOOK, CALL THE FLATBUSH OFFICE at 780.681.3929 or toll-free at 1.866.681.3929

26 RURAL SERVICES

It has been a long-awaited decision, but construction of the NEW SMITH COMPLEX will begin this summer, with an anticipated completion date of Summer 2015. At their May meeting, Council made a motion to award a contract to Southwest Design and Construction Ltd. to proceed with a 500-seat capacity community hall to the north of the existing ice arena for a cost of $3.64 million. The contract also includes demolition of the existing hall, curling rink, foyer and change rooms (keeping cement from all structures intact and usable) and renovation of the change rooms and meeting room in the arena.

After a series of structural, electrical and mechanical concerns led to the November 2012 closure of the Smith Agriplex, which served as the social and recreational hub for the Hamlet, the MD and community members have worked in earnest to budget and plan for reconstruction or replacement of the facility. The current riding arena has remained operational.

Besides normal construction timelines for community input, design, drawings and tendering, the major challenge with the project has been the high cost of construction and subsequent lack of funding. The project has been re-scoped a few times in an attempt to bring the cost down. Following the opening of a tender with the lowest price being $6.2 million, the MD and community finally had no choice but to make a decision to eliminate the curling rink from the plans.

The MD has $3.0 million budgeted for the project with $1.0 million of that secured by Tri-Council evacuation centre funding. The new facility will be able to support residents during future evacuations as it will be equipped with showers and a large kitchen. Funding shortfall will come from municipal reserves. S.H.A.R.A. also has plans to build a pole shed over the old curling rink concrete pad for multi-season and multi-use purposes, as well as build a garage on the old hall/foyer concrete pad for tractor and Zamboni storage.

SUMMER CONSTRUCTION IS SCHEDULED FOR THE NEW SMITH COMPLEX

“WE FULLY REALIZE THE IMPORTANCE OF THIS FACILITY TO THE COMMUNITY, AND WE’RE EAGER TO GET STARTED,”

“I’D LIKE TO ESPECIALLY THANK THE RESIDENTS OF SMITH FOR THEIR PATIENCE DURING OUR

WORK TO SECURE FUNDING AND FIND A SOLUTION THAT WORKED FOR ALL INVOLVED.”

— Murray Keirk, Reeve

PROPOSED SMITH COMPLEX

SOUTH WEST VIEW Proposed Concept Design

Proposed Concept DesignSOUTH EAST VIEW

The 11,000 ft 2 facility will include:

• Dance Hall• Stage• Full Kitchen• Bar• Meeting Rooms / Offices• Showers

27

“OVERALL, THE 2014 CENSUS WAS SIMPLE, WELL-ORGANIZED AND COMPLETED ON TIME AND ACCURATELY. IT WAS ALSO A GREAT WAY TO DOUBLE CHECK THE RURAL ADDRESSING SYSTEM (BLUE SIGNS). ANY INCONSISTENCIES THAT WERE FOUND WILL BE CORRECTED.”

stated Census Administrator Russ Jassman.

RURAL SERVICES

WHAT’S HAPPENING AT THE REGIONAL LANDFILL?

The major upcoming project at the Regional Landfill is the installation of a NEW Scale House. The new facility will include a break room/training room for staff, a filing room, and an office for the manager. There will also be an addition of a second scale on the main site (which is being moved from the Class III Landfill), to help improve the flow of traffic (especially during days with a large volume of commercial vehicles or special projects).

The Landfill Commission has been working hard at finding resources to dispose of a lot of construction type materials, such as wood, concrete, and HDPE pipe. The biggest challenge has been the HDPE pipe, which takes up a lot of space in the landfill yet weighs so little. In addition, some of it has oil residue from the oil industry, so we are having to look at ways to sort, prepare and ship this pipe in the most economical and efficient manner. 2014 is going to be the test year for this product and we hope to make it one where we no longer have to landfill it in the future.

A major challenge at the landfill continues to be the wind, as a lot of trees around the site were lost during the fire and more have been removed through FireSmart projects. Staff are trying to make some changes with how to handle flying debris, such as plastic bags, and will have to build more fences to help catch the trash.

The Regional Landfill is under the guidance of the Lesser Slave Lake Regional Waste Management Services Commission, which is comprised of three Town of Slave Lake Council members and three Municipal District of Lesser Slave River Council members. It operates under Approval from Alberta Environment and Provincial Legislation. Municipal District Transfer Stations are under the supervision of the Municipal District, so for questions related to them, please call their office directly at 780.849.4888.

WASTE MANAGEMENT & LANDFILL PROJECTS 2014 MUNICIPAL CENSUS REPORT

THE WINNER OF THE IPAD MINI FOR COMPLETING THE 2014 MD CENSUS

ONLINE IS MJ MUNN-KRISTOFF!

ONLY 264 HOUSEHOLDS OR APPROXIMATELY 20 PER CENT DID THEIR CENSUS ONLINE.

COUNT YOURSELF IN!

Between May 1st and June 30th, the 2014 Municipal Census was conducted in order to determine the number of usual residents in our municipality. Census numbers can be used for a variety of purposes; the main one being for grant funding on per capital basis. Other benefits of having up-to-date Census numbers are to help evaluate electoral divisions, to determine the number of seasonal dwellings, and to provide data for prospective businesses/developers who may be interested in our region.

Residents were encouraged to complete the Census online by May 15th in order to be eligible for the draw to win an Apple iPad Mini. Unfortunately, only about 20 per cent of residents participated online. Many residents did not realize that the Census was only one question, and presumed it was similar to the federal Census with multiple questions, so this may have deterred them from taking part online. The remaining 80 per cent had to be completed by door-to-door Census Takers.

The final 2014 Municipal Census numbers are as follows:

• Number of Usual Residents: 3,074 (2,929 from 2011 Federal Census)• Number of Temporary Residents: 241• Total Number of Dwellings: 1,534 (1,438 from 2011 Federal Census)

In addition to usual residents, Alberta Municipal Affairs granted the Municipal District permission to complete the Census for its shadow population (temporary residents). The shadow population (temporary resident) number must be greater than 1,000 persons, or if less than 1,000, the shadow population is greater than 10% of the permanent municipal population. Given that our temporary resident count is only 241, it did not qualify to be included as part of our population numbers.

28 SECTION NAME

milestones 2014

Documents