CLEARWATER COUNTY TAXPAYERS ASSOCIATION
MEETING MINUTES
March 08, 2018
ARBUTUS COMMUNITY HALL
1.0 Welcome and introductions
1. At 7:30 p.m. President Marianne Cole welcomed all those in attendance. Those in attendance introduced themselves.
2.0 Approval of Agenda
2. Item 6.4, 6.5, 6.6, 6.7 and 6.8 were added to the agenda. Ken Qually moved that we approve the agenda with the additions. Trish Bingham seconded. Carried.
3.0 Minutes of the last meeting
3. Marianne Cole read the minutes of the last meeting held Februay 08, 2018. Dan Warkentin moved that the minutes be approved as presented. Lawrence Stewart seconded. Carried. There is an update on the Elk’s fundraiser – It is now at nearly $70,000.
4.0 Financial Report
4. Pat Butler read the financial report. Pat Butler moved that the financial report by accepted as presented. Marlene Brattberg seconded. Carried.
5.0 Business arising from the minutes
5.1 Karl Zajes, speaker for April 12 – Karl will be our guest speaker on April 12 and will be speaking about orphan wells, oil leases ets.
5.2 Bighorn Wilderness Park Update – petition letters available – Lack of information is frustrating for residents. Marianne spoke to a rep of Y2Y with few answers. Y2Y will not meet a group due to “safety concerns”. We support our county stance on this issue. It was decided that Marianne will draft a letter to the province voicing our concerns with the park and Y2Y and foreign money support and highlight county initiatives.
6.0 New Business
6.1 County Council highlights ---February 27, 2018.
o Eckville Arena Request – the Eckville Arena Operating Association requested financial assistance with repairs to the arena. The request was denied.
o Council Compensation Committee Appointments – Members-at-large are Darryl Park, Lynn Webster and Dickson Wood with past council reps Ken Qually and Dick Wymenga. They will review councillor and board member compensation for the next three years.
o Leslieville/Condor Fire Halls – Town hall meetings at the fire halls scheduled for April 3 and 4th with tours at 6:30 and meeting at 7:00pm.
o Clearwater County Broadband Policy – Council approved a Broadband Policy which outlines the County’s goals and action in providing better broadband/internet service to our area.
o Village of Caroline Sr. Independent Living Initiative – Mayor John Rimmer of Caroline attended the meeting to outline the need for, and possible action on developing increased senior housing for the southern portion of the county. Council directed Administration to draft a letter of support for this initiative. A member noted that there has been a suggestion to turn an abandoned hotel in Caroline into senior housing but there are concerns that this would be an expensive remodel due to regulations.
6.2 Potential wind farm info- maybe get a guest speaker on this – there are reports of a potential windfarm being built NW of Leslieville. Marianne Cole left a message with the county but no reply as of yet. Windfarms are under the jurisdiction of Alberta Utilities Guidelines according to Municipal Affairs.
6.3 Council Meeting Agenda for March 13, 2018 – one of the items on the agenda is a public hearing for an application to change zoned industrial land to agricultural.
6.4 There is a Rural Crime Watch tradeshow from 11-3 in the Subway Room at the Christianson Centre on Saturday March 10th.
6.5 Jayden Evans update – there was 5 minute appearance for the accused of the Elk’s Hall arson. He reserved his plea. March 19th @ 10:00 is his next appearance. There was discussion regarding victim impact statements.
6.6 Broadband Survey & info – Dan Warkentin brought forward a concern that item G2 on the Clearwater County Council Agenda contained no data to support answers and there were incomplete answers with data not being used from the survey.
6.7 Medical Marijuana – the County’s medical marijuana policy is that it will not be considered farming and must be located in an industrial area. There are concerns being raised by some with Facebook posts and a webpage “Clearwater Farming”.
6.8 Lacombe Council recorded vote procedure – Lacombe County have implemented a policy that all council votes must be recorded for the public to promote transparency. Ken Qually made a motion that Marianne Cole draft a letter to our council to consider this policy. Doug Smith seconded. Carried.
7.0 Open Forum
7.1 There is a Grassroots Alberta Conference in Medicine Hat called “Roadmap to Change” for anyone wishing to attend on March 9th, 2018.
8.0 Next meetings: April 12, 2018 @ 7:30pm; May 10, 2018 @ 7:30pm.
9.0 Ken Qually moved for adjournment @ 9:20 p.m.
Sunday, May 6, 2018
CLEARWATER COUNTY TAXPAYERS ASSOCIATION
MEETING MINUTES
February 08, 2018
ARBUTUS COMMUNITY HALL
1.0 Welcome and introductions
1. At 7:30 p.m. President Marianne Cole welcomed all those in attendance. Those in attendance introduced themselves.
2.0 Approval of Agenda
2. Item 6.5 was added to the agenda. Ken Qually moved that we approve the agenda with the addition. Dan Warkentin seconded. Carried.
3.0 Minutes of the last meeting
3. Marianne Cole read the minutes of the last meeting held January 11, 2018. Al Gaetz moved that the minutes be approved as presented. Doug Smith seconded. Carried.
4.0 Financial Report
4. Pat Butler read the financial report. Pat Butler moved that the financial report by accepted as presented. Marlene Brattberg seconded. Carried.
5.0 Business arising from the minutes
5.1 Elks Hall Fund Raiser/Donation – The Elks’ fundraiser was a success with standing room only with a silent and live auction. Over 50,000 was raised.
5.2 Karl Zajes as guest speaker – Karl was unable to attend the meeting due to the weather. It was decided to invite him to speak at our April meeting. Marlene Brattberg moved that we give him an honorarium of $200. Ken Qually seconded. Carried.
6.0 New Business
6.1 West Country/Bighorn Wilderness Park – There was a meeting held at the Dovercourt Hall on February 07, 2018 that was very well attended. There is a letter available online to send to Shannon Phillips opposing the park. According to a survey by the Clearwater Trails Initiative, 65% of users of the West Country would be in favor of a fee for random recreational activities.
6.2 Use of County vehicles for driving to/from work – Marianne Cole did an estimated cost of county vehicle usage based on 8 vehicles, and the yearly cost is $50,420.00. It is unknown how many county vehicles are being driven to and from work.
6.3 Medical Marijuana Facilities/Land Use Bylaw – There is a bylaw amendment on the County agenda for February 13, 2018. The County has developed a special land use provision for Medical Marijuana Production Facilities.
6.4 January 23 council meeting highlights/Agenda for February 13
o Recommendations from the January 15th Agenda & Priorities Meeting : Broadband Policy Framework- Council directed administration to prepare a Terms of Reference for council. The project will involve public engagements through articles and community hall meetings. CPO program- a motion to hire a 5th CPO was defeated. Leslieville/Condor Fire Halls- members want to maintain two stations. The public will be engaged before any decisions are made.
o Presentation by Sgt. Jason Penner, Acting Detachment Commander, RCMP – There are some staff changes at the department, a crime analyst/investigator should be on staff by May. “Coffee with a Cop” will be held at McDonalds from 10-11AM once a month. * There is a program for seniors for information about fraud and scams called the Wise Owl Program. For more information contact Tom Clark *
o Presentation by Cole Thomson, Community Area Lead, TransCanada NOVA Transmission Ltd. – Mr. Thomson outlined their plans for two large scale projects in Clearwater County, one near Nordegg and one near Caroline.
o Presentation by Jessica Reilly, Senior Fisheries Biologist, Alberta Environment and Parks – Ms. Reilly outline her research on the decline of some trout numbers and the need for fixing some culverts/road crossings.
o Council Board & Committee Remuneration Policy – A committee will be established to review remuneration which will be made up of no more than 5 public members. Interested parties may apply.
6.5 Procedural Bylaw – There was a concern by a member that the County website is not reflecting changes to a bylaw that was changed in January. Also, special meetings can be called with 24 hours notice, is there a way to inform residents of this as well as on social media?
6.6 Membership/ Cards – 2018 Memberships are available as well as new membership cards. Memberships are $10.
7.0 Open Forum
7.1 Laverne Ahlstrom informed us that the cost for the rent of the Arbutus Hall will be $50 per meeting.
7.2 Lawrence Stewart had high praise for the job that the graders are doing and the excellent experience he had in our hospitals.
8.0 Next meetings: March 8, 2018 @ 7:30pm; April 12, 2018 @ 7:30pm.
9.0 Ken Qually moved for adjournment @ 9:15 p.m.
MEETING MINUTES
February 08, 2018
ARBUTUS COMMUNITY HALL
1.0 Welcome and introductions
1. At 7:30 p.m. President Marianne Cole welcomed all those in attendance. Those in attendance introduced themselves.
2.0 Approval of Agenda
2. Item 6.5 was added to the agenda. Ken Qually moved that we approve the agenda with the addition. Dan Warkentin seconded. Carried.
3.0 Minutes of the last meeting
3. Marianne Cole read the minutes of the last meeting held January 11, 2018. Al Gaetz moved that the minutes be approved as presented. Doug Smith seconded. Carried.
4.0 Financial Report
4. Pat Butler read the financial report. Pat Butler moved that the financial report by accepted as presented. Marlene Brattberg seconded. Carried.
5.0 Business arising from the minutes
5.1 Elks Hall Fund Raiser/Donation – The Elks’ fundraiser was a success with standing room only with a silent and live auction. Over 50,000 was raised.
5.2 Karl Zajes as guest speaker – Karl was unable to attend the meeting due to the weather. It was decided to invite him to speak at our April meeting. Marlene Brattberg moved that we give him an honorarium of $200. Ken Qually seconded. Carried.
6.0 New Business
6.1 West Country/Bighorn Wilderness Park – There was a meeting held at the Dovercourt Hall on February 07, 2018 that was very well attended. There is a letter available online to send to Shannon Phillips opposing the park. According to a survey by the Clearwater Trails Initiative, 65% of users of the West Country would be in favor of a fee for random recreational activities.
6.2 Use of County vehicles for driving to/from work – Marianne Cole did an estimated cost of county vehicle usage based on 8 vehicles, and the yearly cost is $50,420.00. It is unknown how many county vehicles are being driven to and from work.
6.3 Medical Marijuana Facilities/Land Use Bylaw – There is a bylaw amendment on the County agenda for February 13, 2018. The County has developed a special land use provision for Medical Marijuana Production Facilities.
6.4 January 23 council meeting highlights/Agenda for February 13
o Recommendations from the January 15th Agenda & Priorities Meeting : Broadband Policy Framework- Council directed administration to prepare a Terms of Reference for council. The project will involve public engagements through articles and community hall meetings. CPO program- a motion to hire a 5th CPO was defeated. Leslieville/Condor Fire Halls- members want to maintain two stations. The public will be engaged before any decisions are made.
o Presentation by Sgt. Jason Penner, Acting Detachment Commander, RCMP – There are some staff changes at the department, a crime analyst/investigator should be on staff by May. “Coffee with a Cop” will be held at McDonalds from 10-11AM once a month. * There is a program for seniors for information about fraud and scams called the Wise Owl Program. For more information contact Tom Clark *
o Presentation by Cole Thomson, Community Area Lead, TransCanada NOVA Transmission Ltd. – Mr. Thomson outlined their plans for two large scale projects in Clearwater County, one near Nordegg and one near Caroline.
o Presentation by Jessica Reilly, Senior Fisheries Biologist, Alberta Environment and Parks – Ms. Reilly outline her research on the decline of some trout numbers and the need for fixing some culverts/road crossings.
o Council Board & Committee Remuneration Policy – A committee will be established to review remuneration which will be made up of no more than 5 public members. Interested parties may apply.
6.5 Procedural Bylaw – There was a concern by a member that the County website is not reflecting changes to a bylaw that was changed in January. Also, special meetings can be called with 24 hours notice, is there a way to inform residents of this as well as on social media?
6.6 Membership/ Cards – 2018 Memberships are available as well as new membership cards. Memberships are $10.
7.0 Open Forum
7.1 Laverne Ahlstrom informed us that the cost for the rent of the Arbutus Hall will be $50 per meeting.
7.2 Lawrence Stewart had high praise for the job that the graders are doing and the excellent experience he had in our hospitals.
8.0 Next meetings: March 8, 2018 @ 7:30pm; April 12, 2018 @ 7:30pm.
9.0 Ken Qually moved for adjournment @ 9:15 p.m.
Monday, February 12, 2018
CLEARWATER COUNTY TAXPAYERS ASSOCIATION
MEETING MINUTES
January 11, 2018
ARBUTUS COMMUNITY HALL
1.0 Welcome and introductions
1. At 7:28 p.m. President Marianne Cole welcomed all those in attendance. Those in attendance introduced themselves.
2.0 Approval of Agenda
2. Item 7.1 was added. Ken Qually moved that we approve the agenda with the addition. Larry Titford seconded. Carried.
3.0 Minutes of the last meeting
3. Marianne Cole read the minutes of the last meeting held October 12, 2017. Dennis Ross moved that the minutes be approved as presented. Dan Warkentin seconded. Carried.
4.0 Financial Report
4. Pat Butler read the financial report. Pat Butler moved that the financial report by accepted as presented. Ron Hallahan seconded. Carried.
5.0 Business arising from the minutes
5.1 Agenda – The agenda for council meetings is now coming out Wednesdays. Previous concerns with no response to letters and phone calls should be addressed in a new Code of Conduct.
5.2 Broadband Survey – Marianne Cole outlined the results of the broadband survey which indicated that there is a need for better internet in the county with concerns about potential costs.
6.0 New Business
6.1 County Council Highlights – Key highlights of the January 9, 2018 meeting were:
o Presentation by Kelly and Andrea Spongberg - The Spongbergs are requesting cost sharing for the road improvements that they have made.
o Presentation re: hosting the 2019 Alberta Masters Games – Council passed a motion to provide $75,000 of funding for the games.
o Presentation by Stephan Bull, Assistant Deputy Minister, Service Alberta – Mr Bull made a presentation on issues related to improved broadband service in Alberta.
o The County’s own Broadband Policy Framework – A draft of the possible policy framework was presented but will be discussed further at council’s Agenda and Priorities meeting on Monday.
6.2 Future meeting location and time – There is no price on holding meetings at the Arbutus hall at this time. Robert Brattberg moved that future meetings be held at Arbutus hall pending further information. Marlene Brattberg seconded. Carried. Larry Titford moved that meeting times continue at 7:30 pm. Doug Smith seconded. Carried.
6.3 Support of Leslieville Elks’ Hall fundraiser, Saturday February 3, 2018. – Trish Bingham moved to donate $250.00 to the fundraiser. Robert Brattberg seconded. Carried.
6.4 Future guest speaker?? Karl Zajes, Warburg Surface Rights Group?? – Sharon Rubeling moved that we invite Karl Zajes to our February or March meeting depending on when he is available. Pat Butler seconded. Carried.
6.5 Guest Speaker-----Reeve John Vandermeer
Reeve John Vandermeer was our guest speaker and covered a number of topics that council will have to make decisions on in the upcoming term. Some of the topics covered were:
o Leslieville and Condor firehalls – previous council was pushing for a centralized hall. Community engagement is needed for the fire halls.
o Road Paving – 2018 is looking like a good time to pave some roads as there are lower asphalt prices this year
o Broadband – There is $10 million allocated for a demonstration project. The county is looking to provide the internet highway ( infrastructure) and have other companies provide the service.
o Taxes – Over 90% of the tax revenue in the county is from oil and gas companies. We need to have a more diversified revenue stream.
John fielded various questions and comments from those in attendance.
7.0 Open Forum
7.1 Park in the West Country.- It was decided to table this item until we can gather more information.
8.0 Next meetings: February 8, 2018 @ 7:30pm; March 8, 2018 @ 7:30pm.
9.0 Dan Warkentin moved for adjournment @ 9:55 p.m.
MEETING MINUTES
January 11, 2018
ARBUTUS COMMUNITY HALL
1.0 Welcome and introductions
1. At 7:28 p.m. President Marianne Cole welcomed all those in attendance. Those in attendance introduced themselves.
2.0 Approval of Agenda
2. Item 7.1 was added. Ken Qually moved that we approve the agenda with the addition. Larry Titford seconded. Carried.
3.0 Minutes of the last meeting
3. Marianne Cole read the minutes of the last meeting held October 12, 2017. Dennis Ross moved that the minutes be approved as presented. Dan Warkentin seconded. Carried.
4.0 Financial Report
4. Pat Butler read the financial report. Pat Butler moved that the financial report by accepted as presented. Ron Hallahan seconded. Carried.
5.0 Business arising from the minutes
5.1 Agenda – The agenda for council meetings is now coming out Wednesdays. Previous concerns with no response to letters and phone calls should be addressed in a new Code of Conduct.
5.2 Broadband Survey – Marianne Cole outlined the results of the broadband survey which indicated that there is a need for better internet in the county with concerns about potential costs.
6.0 New Business
6.1 County Council Highlights – Key highlights of the January 9, 2018 meeting were:
o Presentation by Kelly and Andrea Spongberg - The Spongbergs are requesting cost sharing for the road improvements that they have made.
o Presentation re: hosting the 2019 Alberta Masters Games – Council passed a motion to provide $75,000 of funding for the games.
o Presentation by Stephan Bull, Assistant Deputy Minister, Service Alberta – Mr Bull made a presentation on issues related to improved broadband service in Alberta.
o The County’s own Broadband Policy Framework – A draft of the possible policy framework was presented but will be discussed further at council’s Agenda and Priorities meeting on Monday.
6.2 Future meeting location and time – There is no price on holding meetings at the Arbutus hall at this time. Robert Brattberg moved that future meetings be held at Arbutus hall pending further information. Marlene Brattberg seconded. Carried. Larry Titford moved that meeting times continue at 7:30 pm. Doug Smith seconded. Carried.
6.3 Support of Leslieville Elks’ Hall fundraiser, Saturday February 3, 2018. – Trish Bingham moved to donate $250.00 to the fundraiser. Robert Brattberg seconded. Carried.
6.4 Future guest speaker?? Karl Zajes, Warburg Surface Rights Group?? – Sharon Rubeling moved that we invite Karl Zajes to our February or March meeting depending on when he is available. Pat Butler seconded. Carried.
6.5 Guest Speaker-----Reeve John Vandermeer
Reeve John Vandermeer was our guest speaker and covered a number of topics that council will have to make decisions on in the upcoming term. Some of the topics covered were:
o Leslieville and Condor firehalls – previous council was pushing for a centralized hall. Community engagement is needed for the fire halls.
o Road Paving – 2018 is looking like a good time to pave some roads as there are lower asphalt prices this year
o Broadband – There is $10 million allocated for a demonstration project. The county is looking to provide the internet highway ( infrastructure) and have other companies provide the service.
o Taxes – Over 90% of the tax revenue in the county is from oil and gas companies. We need to have a more diversified revenue stream.
John fielded various questions and comments from those in attendance.
7.0 Open Forum
7.1 Park in the West Country.- It was decided to table this item until we can gather more information.
8.0 Next meetings: February 8, 2018 @ 7:30pm; March 8, 2018 @ 7:30pm.
9.0 Dan Warkentin moved for adjournment @ 9:55 p.m.
CLEARWATER COUNTY TAXPAYERS ASSOCIATION
ANNUAL GENERAL MEEING
MEETING MINUTES
NOVEMBER 10, 2016
LESLIEVILLE ELKS HALL
1.0 Welcome
1. At 7:05 p.m. President Marianne Cole welcomed all those in attendance.
2.0 Approval of Agenda
2. Jack Leslie moved that we approve the agenda as presented. Ron Schultz seconded. Carried.
3.0 Minutes of the previous Annual Meeting
3. Marianne Cole read 2015 Annual Meeting minutes. Pat Warkentin moved that minutes be approved as recorded. Al Gaetz seconded. Carried.
4.0 Financial Report
4. Marianne Cole read the financial statement of the total of income and expenses for the past year. Marion Schafer moved that the financial statements be accepted as presented. Larry Titford seconded. Carried.
5.0 Business
5.1 Review of the last year’s activities. Some of the highlights from the past year are:
· Taxpayer Survey – CCTA conducted a survey of the importance of county services. The results were passed onto council members.
· The “reveal”. On May 10th 2016 the plan for building new admin buildings was revealed to the public. Previously the county had only mentioned a salt/sand storage facility.
· The wrap on the Western Star. A wrap was purchased on the Western Star informing the public of the county plans for the new buildings.
· There was a public meeting May 30th, 2016 at Dovercourt hall for public input concerning the spending of taxpayer’s money for the new admin buildings. This was very well attended with the overwhelming number of people opposed to the county plans.
· Information page in Western Star on November 2, 2016. Information was published in the newspaper about the increase in taxes for county residents and increases in spending by the county.
** Marianne Cole thanked everyone for the financial and attendance support of CCTA throughout the year.
5.2 Election of Officers
· President – Trish Bingham nominated Marianne Cole. Marlene Brattberg seconded. Laverne Ahlstrom moved nominations cease. Seconded by Jack Leslie. Carried.
· Vice President – Dan Warkentin has agreed to let his name stand. Trish Bingham moved nominations cease. Ron Schultz seconded. Carried.
· Secretary – Trish Bingham nominated Susan Durand. Pat Warkentin seconded. Marlene Brattberg moved nominations cease. Coral Ahlstrom seconded. Carried.
· Treasurer – Pat Butler has agreed to let her name stand. Dan Warkentin moved nominations cease. Ron Shultz seconded. Carried.
· Board Members – Former board members were: Ken Qually, Trish Bingham, Jim Foesier, Helge Nome and Al Gaetz. Pat Butler nominated Larry Titford. Laverne Ahlstrom moved nominations cease. Fred Gerber seconded. A vote was conducted by ballot and the board members selected are: Ken Qually, Trish Bingham, Jim Foesier, Al Gaetz and Larry Titford.
5.3 Selection of Auditor. Ron Shultz moved that Marion Shafer be selected as CCTA auditor. Robert Brattberg seconded. Carried.
6.0 Guest Speaker: MLA Jason Nixon
Jason gave a very informative overview of the Carbon Tax and its effects. He estimates it will cost a family of 4 $1000 per year. It equals a 3% tax on our economy. It will affect the Wild Rose School Division by increasing costs by $300,000. This tax will affect shelters and meals on wheels and is a
tax on charities. Jason explained some of the inner workings of the provincial government and said the NDP government wanted to get over 20 bill passed before Christmas. Bill 6 has been amended but still has serious problems with ¾ of the members of the panel not associated with agriculture. The health minister came to the Rocky hospital but there needs to be a proper assessment of the needs of the community. Jason did a heli tour of the West Country with government members so they could get a clearer picture of the recreation use of the West Country and the pressure on our resources. He then took questions from the floor and answered a variety of questions.
7.0 Next meeting January 12, 2017 @ 7:00pm.
8.0 Adjournment. Motion to adjourn was made by Dan Warkentin @ 9:25 p.m.
ANNUAL GENERAL MEEING
MEETING MINUTES
NOVEMBER 10, 2016
LESLIEVILLE ELKS HALL
1.0 Welcome
1. At 7:05 p.m. President Marianne Cole welcomed all those in attendance.
2.0 Approval of Agenda
2. Jack Leslie moved that we approve the agenda as presented. Ron Schultz seconded. Carried.
3.0 Minutes of the previous Annual Meeting
3. Marianne Cole read 2015 Annual Meeting minutes. Pat Warkentin moved that minutes be approved as recorded. Al Gaetz seconded. Carried.
4.0 Financial Report
4. Marianne Cole read the financial statement of the total of income and expenses for the past year. Marion Schafer moved that the financial statements be accepted as presented. Larry Titford seconded. Carried.
5.0 Business
5.1 Review of the last year’s activities. Some of the highlights from the past year are:
· Taxpayer Survey – CCTA conducted a survey of the importance of county services. The results were passed onto council members.
· The “reveal”. On May 10th 2016 the plan for building new admin buildings was revealed to the public. Previously the county had only mentioned a salt/sand storage facility.
· The wrap on the Western Star. A wrap was purchased on the Western Star informing the public of the county plans for the new buildings.
· There was a public meeting May 30th, 2016 at Dovercourt hall for public input concerning the spending of taxpayer’s money for the new admin buildings. This was very well attended with the overwhelming number of people opposed to the county plans.
· Information page in Western Star on November 2, 2016. Information was published in the newspaper about the increase in taxes for county residents and increases in spending by the county.
** Marianne Cole thanked everyone for the financial and attendance support of CCTA throughout the year.
5.2 Election of Officers
· President – Trish Bingham nominated Marianne Cole. Marlene Brattberg seconded. Laverne Ahlstrom moved nominations cease. Seconded by Jack Leslie. Carried.
· Vice President – Dan Warkentin has agreed to let his name stand. Trish Bingham moved nominations cease. Ron Schultz seconded. Carried.
· Secretary – Trish Bingham nominated Susan Durand. Pat Warkentin seconded. Marlene Brattberg moved nominations cease. Coral Ahlstrom seconded. Carried.
· Treasurer – Pat Butler has agreed to let her name stand. Dan Warkentin moved nominations cease. Ron Shultz seconded. Carried.
· Board Members – Former board members were: Ken Qually, Trish Bingham, Jim Foesier, Helge Nome and Al Gaetz. Pat Butler nominated Larry Titford. Laverne Ahlstrom moved nominations cease. Fred Gerber seconded. A vote was conducted by ballot and the board members selected are: Ken Qually, Trish Bingham, Jim Foesier, Al Gaetz and Larry Titford.
5.3 Selection of Auditor. Ron Shultz moved that Marion Shafer be selected as CCTA auditor. Robert Brattberg seconded. Carried.
6.0 Guest Speaker: MLA Jason Nixon
Jason gave a very informative overview of the Carbon Tax and its effects. He estimates it will cost a family of 4 $1000 per year. It equals a 3% tax on our economy. It will affect the Wild Rose School Division by increasing costs by $300,000. This tax will affect shelters and meals on wheels and is a
tax on charities. Jason explained some of the inner workings of the provincial government and said the NDP government wanted to get over 20 bill passed before Christmas. Bill 6 has been amended but still has serious problems with ¾ of the members of the panel not associated with agriculture. The health minister came to the Rocky hospital but there needs to be a proper assessment of the needs of the community. Jason did a heli tour of the West Country with government members so they could get a clearer picture of the recreation use of the West Country and the pressure on our resources. He then took questions from the floor and answered a variety of questions.
7.0 Next meeting January 12, 2017 @ 7:00pm.
8.0 Adjournment. Motion to adjourn was made by Dan Warkentin @ 9:25 p.m.
CLEARWATER COUNTY TAXPAYERS ASSOCIATION
MEETING MINUTES
October 12, 2017
LESLIEVILLE ELKS HALL
1.0 Welcome and introductions
1. At 7:32 p.m. President Marianne Cole welcomed all those in attendance. Those in attendance introduced themselves.
2.0 Approval of Agenda
2. Items 6.4, 6.5, 6.6 and 6.7 were added. Dan Warkentin moved that we approve the agenda with the additions. Larry Titford seconded. Carried.
3.0 Minutes of the last meeting
3. Marianne Cole read the minutes of the last meeting held September 14, 2017. Larry Titford moved that the minutes be approved as presented. Al Gaetz seconded. Carried.
4.0 Financial Report
4. Pat Butler read the financial report. Pat Butler moved that the financial report by accepted as presented. Marlene Brattberg seconded. Carried.
5.0 Business arising from the minutes
5.1 Ads in Western Star – There was very good feedback regarding the two ½ page ads that we ran in the Western Star for the election.
5.2 Candidates Forum – The forum was very well attended and there was good engagement from attendees.
5.3 Social media idea: Darryl Park – not needed at this time. Marianne read the last mailout from the Vote Clearwater Group that some residents have received.
5.4 Letter to Jason Nixon – Marianne Cole drafted a letter to Jason Nixon October 6, 2017 which outlined our concerns regarding Daylight saving time, unreasonably rigid rules re: local abattoirs and federal tax reforms.
6.0 New Business
6.1 County Council Highlights – Key highlights of the October 10, 2017 meeting were:
o Clearwater Cottages Ltd. development proposal- there was a proposal for development in the rig street area but there were road access concerns. A Land Use Bylaw amendment was defeated by council so no development will be able to continue.
o Restoration of Shank’s historic garage in Nordegg- Ted deBoer has offered to do restoration to this building for the cost of demolition. He previously restored the CIBC building in Nordegg.
o Rocky Chamber of Commerce loan request – The Rocky Chamber is asking the town and county each for a $30,000 loan. The county will meet with the chamber and the town to discuss funding options.
o Rocky Air Show – A presentation was made by Nancy McClure about the operation of the air show and they are asking for $25,000.00 for the 2018 show. Support will be considered during budget deliberations.
6.2 Election Issues – No new issues to discuss.
6.3 AGM November 9, 2017- We will ask Jason Nixon to be our guest speaker as well as the new Reeve.
6.4 Public Input Policy ( New MGA) – What is the policy going to be regarding public input? What is going to be the new council’s policy? Our concerns are the non response to our letters, short lead time for agendas and vote time. There is no time for public input. There was discussion about making a presentation to council regarding these concerns: Agenda lead time, code of conduct and response time to communications.
6.5 Division Meetings – There was discussion regarding the councillors holding division meetings at the county’s various halls. If councillors aren’t meeting with constituents, we could host meetings in the future.
6.6 Voting Process – People don’t have a chance to vote if their councillor is acclaimed. Discussion took place if there is an opportunity to vote for four councillors or one for any division.
6.7 Broadband Survey – The county is doing a broadband survey that is noted in the county highlights and the newspapers. It is 13 pages long and has to be printed out to submit unless you are contacted by phone. The cost is $60.000.00.
7.0 Open Forum
7.1 Some of the candidates were in attendance and brought up some of their concerns. There is a study going on with the Caroline lagoon as well as the ongoing Rocky lagoon issue…..how many $$$’s are going to have to be spent on this?
8.0 Next meetings: AGM November 9, 2017 @ 7:00pm; January 11, 2018 @ 7:00pm.
9.0 Dan Warkentin moved for adjournment @ 9:55 p.m.
MEETING MINUTES
October 12, 2017
LESLIEVILLE ELKS HALL
1.0 Welcome and introductions
1. At 7:32 p.m. President Marianne Cole welcomed all those in attendance. Those in attendance introduced themselves.
2.0 Approval of Agenda
2. Items 6.4, 6.5, 6.6 and 6.7 were added. Dan Warkentin moved that we approve the agenda with the additions. Larry Titford seconded. Carried.
3.0 Minutes of the last meeting
3. Marianne Cole read the minutes of the last meeting held September 14, 2017. Larry Titford moved that the minutes be approved as presented. Al Gaetz seconded. Carried.
4.0 Financial Report
4. Pat Butler read the financial report. Pat Butler moved that the financial report by accepted as presented. Marlene Brattberg seconded. Carried.
5.0 Business arising from the minutes
5.1 Ads in Western Star – There was very good feedback regarding the two ½ page ads that we ran in the Western Star for the election.
5.2 Candidates Forum – The forum was very well attended and there was good engagement from attendees.
5.3 Social media idea: Darryl Park – not needed at this time. Marianne read the last mailout from the Vote Clearwater Group that some residents have received.
5.4 Letter to Jason Nixon – Marianne Cole drafted a letter to Jason Nixon October 6, 2017 which outlined our concerns regarding Daylight saving time, unreasonably rigid rules re: local abattoirs and federal tax reforms.
6.0 New Business
6.1 County Council Highlights – Key highlights of the October 10, 2017 meeting were:
o Clearwater Cottages Ltd. development proposal- there was a proposal for development in the rig street area but there were road access concerns. A Land Use Bylaw amendment was defeated by council so no development will be able to continue.
o Restoration of Shank’s historic garage in Nordegg- Ted deBoer has offered to do restoration to this building for the cost of demolition. He previously restored the CIBC building in Nordegg.
o Rocky Chamber of Commerce loan request – The Rocky Chamber is asking the town and county each for a $30,000 loan. The county will meet with the chamber and the town to discuss funding options.
o Rocky Air Show – A presentation was made by Nancy McClure about the operation of the air show and they are asking for $25,000.00 for the 2018 show. Support will be considered during budget deliberations.
6.2 Election Issues – No new issues to discuss.
6.3 AGM November 9, 2017- We will ask Jason Nixon to be our guest speaker as well as the new Reeve.
6.4 Public Input Policy ( New MGA) – What is the policy going to be regarding public input? What is going to be the new council’s policy? Our concerns are the non response to our letters, short lead time for agendas and vote time. There is no time for public input. There was discussion about making a presentation to council regarding these concerns: Agenda lead time, code of conduct and response time to communications.
6.5 Division Meetings – There was discussion regarding the councillors holding division meetings at the county’s various halls. If councillors aren’t meeting with constituents, we could host meetings in the future.
6.6 Voting Process – People don’t have a chance to vote if their councillor is acclaimed. Discussion took place if there is an opportunity to vote for four councillors or one for any division.
6.7 Broadband Survey – The county is doing a broadband survey that is noted in the county highlights and the newspapers. It is 13 pages long and has to be printed out to submit unless you are contacted by phone. The cost is $60.000.00.
7.0 Open Forum
7.1 Some of the candidates were in attendance and brought up some of their concerns. There is a study going on with the Caroline lagoon as well as the ongoing Rocky lagoon issue…..how many $$$’s are going to have to be spent on this?
8.0 Next meetings: AGM November 9, 2017 @ 7:00pm; January 11, 2018 @ 7:00pm.
9.0 Dan Warkentin moved for adjournment @ 9:55 p.m.
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