Dec 5th Update - MD Budget Discussion, Millarville Waterline Good/Bad News and Sheep River Health Trust Avenue of Trees/Pictures with SANTA

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MD Council Budget Discussion

Today, MD Council had their second round of budget discussions.  There is still a lot of work to do.  Discussions will continue in the New Year and a final decision will not be made likely until March after the Provincial Budget is released.  At that point, Council will have an idea of just what the Provincial School Requisition will be so the Mill Rate can be set.

Generally, approximately 40% of the property taxes the MD take in is to go directly to the Province to help cover this school requisition.  It is used by the province to fund the education system.

Millarville Waterline Good/Bad News

The good news is, construction of the Millarville waterline is complete!  I believe the system has even been flushed.  The bad news is two fold.  First, the contractor informed the MD that in order to service the extension to the school, there is a pump upgrade required.  Unfortunately, this pump is not an off-the-shelf item and needs to be custom fabricated.  The company that does these is back logged and stated it could be 4-6 months until it is completed.  I am hoping that is a worst case scenario and it will be sooner.

The second bit of bad news is that Alberta Environment has thrown some other curve balls that will hold up putting water through the line.  MD staff is working through this and has been meeting with Environment almost weekly in order to find alternate solutions.  What this means is it pushes back the date the line can be used.  I am hopeful that this will be resolved before the new pump is installed so that it does not further delay the line.

I assure you that everything that can be done is being done and I will continue to keep you informed.

Sheep River Health Trust - Avenue of Trees

As I have mentioned before, the Sheep River Health Trust is currently doing their Avenue of Trees event.  There are 40 trees on display at the Okotoks Recreation Centre that are currently being auctioned off and they are beautiful!

If you are looking for a tree, this is a great place to get one!  

I am happy to say that the MD's tree has been, once again, chosen as one of the 10 Live Auction trees that will be auctioned off on December 15th at 12:45pm at the Rec Centre.  

PLEASE VOTE AND SHARE! Here is an image of the MD's entry into the Sheep River Health Trust's Avenue of Trees. The MD is in the running for the "Fan Favorite" but they need your help!

Please CLICK HERE and then "LIKE" the tree to vote for it (if you do like it that is) and comment letting them know what you think (if you just like my post, it will not count towards the voting).

If you LOVE this tree and would like to own it, you can bid either in person on December 15th at the Okotoks Rec Centre at 12:45 or online HERE.

A very special thank-you to the MD of Foothills No. 31 staff members (Kristine Bencharski, Toni Groeneveld-Sheep River HealthTrust MD of Foothills TreeBouvier and Kelsey Kilborn) that did such an absolutely BEAUTIFUL job on putting this tree together. I know how much effort must have gone into it and I'm sure it will find a well deserving home!

Pictures with Santa!

While you are attending the Sheep River Health Trust's Avenue of Trees, be sure to have your picture taken with Santa as he will be making a special visit to the Okotoks Rec Centre also!  Dates and times can be found HERE!

Nov 28th Update - Rural Municipalities of Alberta Fall Convention Highlights from Premier Notley, Environment Minister Phillips, Finance Minister Ceci and Amanda Lindhout

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Rural Municipalities of Alberta (RMA) Fall Convention Highlights

Last week Council was up in Edmonton for the RMA Fall Convention.  It is a time when we get together with all 69 rural municipalities across the province to discuss issues and potential solutions.

Premier Notley (@:27)

Discussed how the price differential is costing Albertans $80 million/day.  Announced $1 Billion that is going into petrochemical upgrading.

Shannon Phillips - Minister of Environment and Parks (@1:42)

Announced $200 million from the Carbon Tax over the next 20 years is to be allocated to support locally generated renewable energy projects.

Joe Ceci - Minister of Finance on the 2019 Budget (@2:27)

Shared that the estimated deficit of the 2019 Budget is proposed to be only $8.6 billion and stressed how they still planned on having a balanced budget by 2023.  It is better than the $10.8 billion deficit but sure has a long ways to go to get to balanced.

RMA Member Resolutions (@3:00)

The resolutions session is where the member municipalities are able to put resolutions forward to have the RMA work with and lobby the provincial government on certain items.  There were 24 resolutions this year.  I won't go through all of them but will provide a few highlights below.  I discuss them further in the video above. 

If you would like to see them all and the details of each, you can get them by clicking HERE:

• 3-18F and 4-18F Federal and Provincial Funding of Municipal Broadband Projects (@3:40)
• 8-18F Restricting the Consumption of Cannabis based on Regulations for Liquor Consumption (@5:00) 
• 11-18F Rural Municipalities of Alberta Represents Municipalities on Water Act Approvals (@5:24)
• 24-18F Review of Education Funding Formula (@5:48)

Amanda Lindhout - Keynote Speaker - Journalist Kidnapped in Somalia and held captive for over 460 days WATCH THIS! (@6:24)

Amanda shared her incredibly inspiring story and message for all of us and provided some extremely pertinent and powerful perspective that is important for all of us to hear! 

Be sure to watch this portion of the video above! 

For more information on her story, visit http://amandalindhout.com/.

Nov 14 Update - Sheep River Health Trust events, Rothney Astrophysical Observatory Dark Sky Night, Millarville Water Line update, Square Butte Meeting Update & MRAS

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Sheep River Health Trust (SRHT)

A lot of things are coming up with the SRHT!  For those of you not familiar with the organization, they raise funds for a number of different health initiatives in the Foothills. They do a lot of great things and are a fantastic organization to support.  Here are a few opportunities you have coming up!

1. Pictures with Santa - Start on Saturday, Nov 17 and run on specific days from then until Dec 15th.  To book your time, go to SheepRiverHealthTrust.ca.
2. Points of Light - December is the time of year when we remember those who have made a difference in our lives. Remember or recognize someone special today through Points of Light trees at Oilfields General Hospital and the Okotoks Health & Wellness Center.  To purchase a Point of Light please call our office at 403-995-5400.  (Information from SRHT website).
3. Avenue of Trees - Do you need a new Christmas Tree this year but don't have the time or effort to creating your own?  No problem!  The Avenue of Trees is for you!  Businesses within the community come together to build trees that are auctioned off to the highest bidder to raise funds for the SRHT.  Trees on display at the Okotoks Rec Centre.  Visit, SheepRiverHealthTrust.ca to bid or vote for your favorite tree!

Rothney Astrophysical Observatory - Dark Night, Star Light Open House November 17th 8-11pm (@2:10)

Celebrate dark skies with the RAO and their partners in Conserving the Wilderness of the Dark Sky. Maureen Luchsinger and Laura Griffin will be sharing how the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area is a stellar nocturnal preserve. Roland Deschesne will be sharing his research on the effects of light pollution on songbird populations.

The RAO will be sharing how they are not afraid of the dark and how you can be a part of our dark sky country initiatives.

We are joined by our partners - ...the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada - Calgary Centre (RASC) - Page. They will have their telescopes setup for observing along with the University of Calgary's research telescopes.

This is an indoor and outdoor event so please dress for the weather.  The entrance fee is $30 per car.
All proceeds go towards RAO educational programming.

Please see their website for details on this event. www.ucalgary.ca/rao

Millarville Water Line update (@3:30)

The contractor is currently completing the rural connections to the line.  Most of the work within the hamlet has been completed.  The MD is still waiting on Alberta Environment for details on the water license transfer.  Once that is in place, the line will be able to be commissioned.

Square Butte Meeting Update (@3:58)

We had a great turnout for the Nov 8th event held at the Square Butte Hall.  Thanks for all of you that made it out.  We had the following present:

• S. Sgt. Dwayne Helgeson - Turner Valley RCMP
• Block Talk Community App Founder Michael Murray
• Sean MacNeil - Wildfire Operations Officer & Kevin Dwyer, Incident Commander for the Champion Lakes Wildfire
• Cody Zebedee - Foothills Fire Department
• Clayton Terletski - Director of the MD's Foothills Emergency Management
• And myself, Division 3 Councillor and Suzanne Oel, Division 4 Councillor and President of the High Country Rural Crime Watch

Watch my website at www.JasonParkerMD31.com and my Facebook page at www.Fb.me/JasonParkerMD31 for future updates on other events we look to host with regards to the FireSmart program.  

Millarville Racing and Ag Society - Christmas Market (@5:56)

This past weekend was the MRAS' annual Christmas Market.  Thanks to all of those that attended and all the vendors that participated!

I hope you had a chance to check it out and see the new arena!  What a beautiful facility that we are so blessed to have.  However, it is not done yet!  The MRAS are still in need of funds to fully complete the project.  If you can, be sure to donate. 

The MD of Foothills is still accepting donations to go towards the project on behalf of the MRAS.  If you are interested in donating, CLICK HERE for the form or call the MRAS directly at 403-931-3411.

Important Message

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This Message is a MUST WATCH!

UPDATE - Millarville Rink

Hopefully Some Good News!

As I was driving past the Millarville rink this morning, I saw that Volker Stevin was on site. That should mean they are about to complete the paving! The weather looks good, so they should be able to get it done! The next step after it is completed will be re-installing the boards.

Keep your fingers crossed everyone that we will have ice at the Millarville rink again this year!

If you haven’t registered your children for pond hockey, be sure to visit the Millarville Sports Association website at https://www.millarvillesports.ca/.

I believe registration is closed but imagine they might still be able to squeak you in!

Oct 17th Update - FUNDS for MRAS Arena Project, Cannabis Bylaw, Millarville Water Line Update and Square Butte Meeting

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Funds for MRAS Arena Rebuild Project

As I mentioned last week, MRAS President, Brent Foster and Treasurer, Nancy Seaman came before MD Council.  They brought Council up to speed on the vision, direction, and progress of the new arena currently being built at the MRAS along with all the incredible ideas for funding and new opportunities at the site.


Council discussed the presentation at authorized support of the MRAS's arena project by way of an interest free Debenture in the amount of $150,000 and a Grant in the amount of $50,000.  Terms of the interest free debenture are still to be negotiated and will come back before council.  The Grant, however, does not need to be paid back.

This is great news and Council is happy to support the MRAS as they realize how important the facility is to not only the Millarville, but the whole of the MD.

As I mentioned previous, I was able to visit the facility under construction and am very excited about the direction it is taking and how amazing a facility it will be upon completion.

Be sure to come out for the Millarville Christmas Market, Nov 8-10th!  It is a great start to the Holiday Season!

Reminder, the MD of Foothills is still accepting donations to go towards the project on behalf of the MRAS.  If you are interested in donating, CLICK HERE for the form or call the MRAS directly at 403-931-3411.

MD Cannabis Bylaw (2:47)

As many of you are aware, today the Federal Government's Bill C-45 (Cannabis Act) came into force.  Back in June, the Government of Alberta made amendments to the Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Act, prohibiting use of cannabis in certain places.

To ensure residents and visitors are able to continue enjoying public places throughout the Municipality, the MD of Foothills has developed it's own Bylaw.  Today it received 3rd reading and has passed.

Details of the Bylaw can be found of the MD's website HERE.

Millarville Water Line Update (Bad News @5:47)

Staff just informed Council today that for the EXTENSION of the line to the Millarville School, there are updates required for the water treatment plant. The bad news is, the parts required are back-ordered and it is estimated to be 4-6 months before they will be in stock.

This set back does not affect residents between Turner Valley and Millarville that are connecting or residents of the Millarville Crossing but DOES affect residents between the Crossing and the school.

I will keep you posted here and on my Facebook page (FB.me/JasonParkerMD31) so stay tuned.

REMINDER of Nov 8 Meeting at Square Butte Hall (7:43)

I will continue to remind you about the above meeting as it will be a valuable one.  We have confirmed:

• Foothills Fire Department's Fire Inspector & SCO - Cody Zebedee
• Foothills Director of Emergency Management - Clayton Terletski
• High Country Rural Crime Watch President & Division 4 Councillor - Suzanne Oel
• And of course, myself, Jason Parker - Division 3 Councillor

We are awaiting confirmation on a few other presenters and I will let you know as I have further attendees.

Some of the topics of conversation include:

• The MD's new Enhanced Policing Pilot
• The Maclean Creek Fire this past summer
• Update from the Turner Valley RCMP
• and more

Mark your calendars Nov 8th at 7pm for Square Butte Hall. If there are specific items you would like to have on the agenda, feel free to let me know.

Check back here on my website or at www.FB.me/JasonParkerMD31 for more details as I have them.

Oct 10 Update - EXCITING NEWS MRAS Arena Rebuild Project, Square Butte Meeting and DarkSkyCountry.ca Project

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EXCITING NEWS - MRAS Arena Rebuild Project

A big thank you to MRAS President, Brent Foster and Treasurer, Nancy Seaman for coming before MD Council today.  They brought Council up to speed on the vision, direction, and progress of the new arena currently being built at the MRAS along with all the incredible ideas for funding and new opportunities at the site.

I was able to visit the facility under construction and am very excited about the direction it is taking and how amazing a facility it will be upon completion.

There was some exciting news that came out of the meeting before Council but unfortunately, I cannot share that news until next week when the meeting minutes are ratified.  So STAY TUNED and be sure to check back next week for that!

The MD of Foothills is still accepting donations to go towards the project on behalf of the MRAS.  If you are interested in donating, CLICK HERE for the form or call the MRAS directly at 403-931-3411.

Square Butte Meeting - November 8th IS confirmed (@2:14)

The meeting I discussed last week at the Square Butte Hall in conjunction with the High Country Rural Crime Watch IS CONFIRMED for Nov 8th at 7pm.  Some of the topics of conversation include:

• The MD's new Enhanced Policing Pilot
• The Maclean Creek Fire this past summer
• Update from the Turner Valley RCMP
• and more

Mark your calendars Nov 8th at 7pm for Square Butte Hall. If there are specific items you would like to have on the agenda, feel free to let me know.

Check back here on my website or at www.FB.me/JasonParkerMD31 for more details as I have them.

DarkSkyCountry.ca (@3:53)

Our Dark Sky Initiatives Stakeholders Working Group has a new initiative being launched in the community.  The following postcard will going out to residents in the area to help bring more awareness to the importance of the MD's Dark Sky Initiative.  If you would like more information on it, visit DarkSkyCountry.ca. 

Oct 3 Update - Enhanced Policing, Snow Removal, Possible Square Butte Meeting & Ag Services

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Enhanced Policing

The MD's new Enhanced Policing Pilot Project is a GO.  There is a new officer that will be STRICTLY allocated for the MD to help with rural crime, gathering intelligence for the Southern Alberta Crime Unit, Enforcement, etc...

Like I mentioned previously, this is a 3 month pilot project that staff and council will revisit to see how effective it has been and re-evaluate.  We are hopeful this project will have a very positive impact for our residents of the MD.

Snow Removal (@ 52 seconds)

It sure has been quite the start to Winter (I mean Fall, it is Fall right?)  As a reminder, the MD has a policy where the target goal for snow removal is having all 2,400 km of MD roads cleared within 72 hours of the COMPLETION of a major event. 

If you have not been plowed out yet, please be patient.  Public Works has done a good job of getting equipment ready for a situation like this and has 75% of its fleet turned over to snow removal.

Be safe out there!

Possible Square Butte Meeting - November 8th (to be confirmed) (@1:54)

We are looking at having a meeting at the Square Butte Hall in conjunction with the High Country Rural Crime Watch.  Some of the topics of conversation include:

• The MD's new Enhanced Policing Pilot
• The Maclean Creek Fire this past summer
• Update from the Turner Valley RCMP
• and more

Pencil into your calendars Nov 8th at 7pm for Square Butte Hall.  We should have the location firmed up shortly.  If there are specific items you would like to have on the agenda, feel free to let me know.

Check back here on my website or at www.FB.me/JasonParkerMD31 for more details as I have them.

Ag Services in Contact with the Province (3:42)

See video for details.

Recap (4:44)

Sept 26 Update (4min) - Federal Livestock Tax Deferral Program and Millarville Waterline

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Federal Livestock Tax Deferral Program

It was brought to my attention by a resident that the MD of Foothills is not currently included in the current map put out by the Federal Government for drought affected areas therefore, ranchers in our area do not currently qualify for this program.

I have discussed this issue with numerous people and some MD staff was able to reach staff at the Federal Government to voice our concerns and was not able to get much information.  What he did learn was the map is purely a preliminary map and it will be updated as forage numbers are evaluated.  They would not tell him where the received their data on what areas suffered drought conditions.

See the above video for more information.

Millarville Waterline

The line is nearing completion.  MD staff stated that they would be doing a flush of the line later this week.  They have stated that they are currently on track with construction projections of completion to the water treatment plant by beginning of October and still are hoping for the beginning of November for the extension to the Millarville Community School.

There may be some traffic interruptions in the hamlet as they start work on the distribution line for the hamlet but as I receive information, I will do my best to keep you up to date.

REMINDER - RAO Howdy Neighbour BBQ This Thursday, Sept 20th!

It is that time of year again!  Get to know more about the Rothney Astrophysical Observatory and meet some of your neighbours.  

This is a great event to get to learn about a number of initiatives going on at the RAO.  Also, a great event for families.

If you are interested in attending, be sure to RSVP!

Sept 19 Update - Emergency Preparedness Funding, Calgary Metropolitan Region Board, and Millarville water line

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Emergency Preparedness Funding

Back in May, I reported on the MD receiving grant funding from the Province for Emergency Preparedness.  The MD has been awarded $525,000 in funding from this grant.  Details will be released shortly.  Watch here and the Western Wheel for more information when it becomes available.

Calgary Metropolitan Region Board (CMRB) - 1:10

Council discussed the current proposal for the Interim Growth Plan for the CMRB.  A sub committee of the board will be discussing it on Friday and if they approve it, the CMRB will discuss and make a decision on it Oct 2.

Millarville Water Line - 2:14

The Millarville line is still progressing and hoping to be connected to the treatment plant the beginning of October with the extension to the school scheduled to be completed in November.  This is weather dependent, so hopefully the weather will cooperate.  As a clarification, for those that sign agreements to connect to the line and pay the connection fee, the MD will be bringing the line directly to your property line.  The landowner is responsible for taking the line from the property line and connecting to the residence.

Construction is currently under budget and when it is complete, if it is still under budget, Council may look at the possibility of lowering the connection fee accordingly.  This is a Council decision, so no guarantees at this point, but I am hopeful!

Recycle Your Electronics

It's that time of year again...

(If image below is too small, click on it to enlarge.)

Recycling Roundup Event

Bring your old computers, TVs and old paint to:

Black Diamond Transfer Station
Hwy 22 & 402 Ave W
(west side of Black Diamond)

Priddis Transfer Station
Priddis Greens Dr W & Hawk’s Landing Dr
(south east of the Priddis Greens Golf & Country Club)

Saturday, September 22, 2018  from 10 am - 4 pm

These materials can be recycled at the Foothills Regional Landfill year-round at no cost.

Sept 12 Update - Secondary Suites, Millarville Waterline and Roadside Mowing

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Secondary Suites

MD Staff presented their report from the second round of public engagement to council today.  Council has made the report public so you can see the feedback.  It should be posted on the MD website shortly at: https://www.mdfoothills.com/services/planning-and-development/secondary-suites.html

Millarville Waterline

Today MD Council approved the proposed extension for the water line to include the Millarville Community School and residents in the hamlet.  As the project was under budget, they were able to move forward on this with in the previous approval.

Roadside Mowing

The MD's Ag Services department is currently mowing north of Highway 549 W and making their way north.  The large mowers have already been through and the small mowers are now making their way in the northwest.  Their goal is to complete all the mowing by the middle of October.  If AFTER that time, there are areas they have not completed, feel free to contact them by calling the MD office at 403-652-2390.

Landfill Extended Hours

(Information from: http://foothillslrrc.com/hours/)

Extended hours are back! September 17 – October 18, we will stay open from 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM on Monday through Thursday. Friday and Saturday are regular hours for the site. 

Note, only the Throw & Go area stays open past 4:30 for small residential loads, recycling, and yard waste. Large commercial loads for the landfill will not be accepted after 4:30.

Regular landfill hours are 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday-Saturday. 
The landfill is CLOSED on Sunday and all statutory holidays.

Regular hours of operation at MD of Foothills transfer stations:
Priddis Transfer Station
SE-29- 22-3- W5M (264 St. W. & 178 Ave)
Open Tuesday and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Phone 403-931- 3266

Black Diamond/Turner Valley Transfer Station
SE-17- 20-2- W5M (168 St. W & 402 Ave) west of Black Diamond
April 15 – Nov 15: Open Monday-Tuesday, Friday-Saturday from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Nov 16 – April 14: Open Friday-Saturday from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

*Bags can be purchased at the Priddis transfer station for $2 per bag. Bags for use at the transfer stations are also available at Millarville General Store, Hi Ho in Turner Valley, and the Esso in Black Diamond. Sale prices of bags at retailers is at the discretion of the retailers and may be more than $2 per bag.

RAO Howdy Neighbour BBQ

It is that time of year again!  Get to know more about the Rothney Astrophysical Observatory and meet some of your neighbours.  

This is a great event to get to learn about a number of initiatives going on at the RAO.  Also, a great event for families.

If you are interested in attending, be sure to RSVP!

Big Announcement Re: Rural Crime

MD Council Votes in Favour of "Enhanced Policing" Pilot

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Rural Crime has been a very important topic over the last number of years.  MD Council has hosted a number of meetings over that time to get feedback from residents as to what they would like to see done.  In addition, Council has met with RCMP representatives from the Province along with local detachments to get their feedback as well.

You the residents have spoken loudly and MD Council has listened.  After all of the feedback we have received from all parties, MD Council has decided to move forward with an "Enhanced Policing" Pilot project.

What does this mean for you?

Basically, it means that we will have a designated RCMP officer for the MD of Foothills (not shared with the towns) that the MD can use on an almost daily basis.  It means increased presence in the MD (even the more remote areas) for crime reduction, to help with increased intelligence for the Crime Reduction Unit implemented by the province in the Southern Alberta region, along with enhanced policing for traffic violations (watch out speeders).

The pilot project will run from October through December and then will be reviewed by staff of both the MD and the local RCMP detachments to determine the success of the program and see if the focus needs to change.

Council looks forward to having a safer community for you and think this is a step in the right direction.

FIRE BAN LIFTED!

As of 04:13 p.m. September 4, 2018,  the Municipal District of Foothills No. 31, by order of Council, has lifted the fire ban imposed on August 8, 2018.   All open fires will now be allowed by obtaining a burning permit issued by the MD of Foothills Website. Fire Inspectors may request to inspect your burn pile before issuing a burn permit. Burn Permits are available free of charge.  Click here for more information on burning permits.

The burning of prohibited debris is against the law. Prohibited debris includes but is not limited to this list:

Tires, Plastics, Household Garbage, Paint and paint cans, Used motor oil and filters, Furniture, Treated Products, Animal Carcasses

Please only burn clean burnable debris. All other material can be disposed of at the Foothills Regional Landfill.

Fire Ban Lifted – Media release - pdf

Water Meter Replacement Program

This is a mandatory program for homes and businesses who receive water directly from the MD of Foothills.

Any home owners who were missed in the spring of 2018, will be contacted by Scotty’s Plumbing and Heating within the next month to set up an appointment.

Residents who have not booked an upgrade or have refused to upgrade their water meter, will be charged an unmetered water rate of not less than 6X the applicable current service fee for water. This will result in a water and sewer bill of $480 every month at current rates.

---

MANDATORY WATER METER

REPLACEMENT PROGRAM

WATER METERS ARE BEING INSTALLED
A new Water Meter Replacement Program has been established by the MD of Foothills in order to ensure maximum accuracy of your water bills. The MD has contracted a supplier to replace the water meter in your home or business at no charge to you. You will not be billed for this replacement/installation.

THE INSTALLATION PROCESS
Installations began January 2018. This program will be completed summer of 2018. Any home owners who were missed, will be contacted within the next two months to set up an appointment.
Some water meters were not replaced during the recent installation program; mainly due to the high volume of snow making certain meter locations inaccessible and residents being away.

QUICK AND CONVENIENT
Water meter installation appointments can be made to fit your schedule. The work typically takes 30 to 45 minutes to complete. These upgrades will allow the MD to read the water meter remotely from your house or business and will eliminate the need for the meter reader to gain access to your property to read the meter.

PRIOR TO THE INSTALLATION
Please ensure the area around the existing water meter is clear and accessible. In addition to clearing this space, please leave ample room for the installer to work. Your existing shut-off valve should be located where the water service comes into your house or business. Check your main water shut-off valve to make sure it is accessible and operable.

POST INSTALLATION
It is the home owners responsibility to ensure heat tape is working properly or replaced if necessary.
The Water Meter Replacement Program is an important part of the process to ensure equitable billing for all residents and businesses. The upgraded meter will also provide timely leak detection to help minimize unexpectedly high water bills. We look forward to your support and cooperation to make this program a success.

(Information from https://www.mdfoothills.com/services/utilities/water-meter-replacement-program.html)

Cycling Events to be Aware of

Quick 4 Minute Video Update

Cycling Events Coming Up in the Area

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On Sunday, Sept 16 Cancervive Cycle Tour will be wrapping up in the MD of Foothills.  Approximately 40 riders will be leaving Millarville, heading west on highway 549, north on 240th St, west on Plummers' Road, then north on 762 to highway 22 between the hours of 8am-5pm so there may be some minor traffic delays during those times if you are travelling any of those routes.

On Tuesday, September 25 WSP is hosting a small cycling event for approximately 25 riders.  They will be out between noon and 3:30pm utilizing the same route as listed above.

MD Council has suggested, in the future, to not utilize this route on the weekends as these roads are so busy and shoulders so narrow.  Also, council has suggested future routes to be directed to the southern portion of the MD to the Longview area were it is not as busy and the roads are wider and a little quieter.

Hopefully this will be winding down the cycling events for the year.

Aug 29 - Millarville Water Line 4 min Update

Quick 4 Minute Video Update

Millarville Waterline Update

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Construction is going well.  The pipeline is about 2 weeks behind schedule but the mechanical updates at the water treatment plant are on time.  Staff is still hoping for a completion date of the line by the beginning of October.

Staff has contacted the contractors and they are open to an extension of the line to include the hamlet of Millarville and the Millarville Community School which is great news.  They are to provide council with a quote for the additional work and council will have the final approval.  As the original project has been under budget, this extension will be included in the original cost of the line.

The timeline for having the extension of the line complete is the end of October if all goes well.  If you are adjacent to the line, you should have received a letter from the MD with the option to connect.  Be sure to contact the MD to let them know if you would like to ASAP.

June 6 - 3 Minute Update - Good News for Flood Preparedness, Dust Control and Roadside Mowing

Note: If your are receiving this in your email and the video below does not show up, click the link above it to be taken to the website to view it.


In this video I share:

• The MD is a recipient of $53,000 for flood preparedness
• Dust control product is delayed due to rail issues and possible rail strike
• Roadside mowing program begins June 15

Millarville Water Line Update

Quick 3 Minute Video Update

Millarville Waterline Update

Note: If your are receiving this in your email and the video below does not show up, click the link above it to be taken to the website to view it.



Construction is underway and Contract #2 for mechanical components was awarded today.  Watch the video above for more information.

Open House Reminder

Reminder of Upcoming MD Open Houses

There are a number of items the MD is looking to get feedback on:

• Responsible Dog Ownership Bylaw (Click here for current Dog Bylaw)
• Updates to the Community Standards Bylaw (Click here for current Community Standards Bylaw)
• Secondary Suites (Summary of feedback from previous open houses can be found here)
• Cannabis policy
• Foothills County vs. M.D. of Foothills No. 31 name change (click here for more info)

MD Council would like to receive as much feedback as possible on the above items as we want to be sure the changes reflect what you want to see.  Be sure to attend if possible.

For more details on the specific items, see links above or visit: www.mdfoothills.com

Thanks to Our Foothills Fire Department

On behalf of residents in the west part of the MD affected by the fire this past week, I wanted to pass on a big thank you to the Foothills Fire Department for their tireless efforts to get the fire under control and keep our residents safe.  Thanks very much for all your time and effort on this fire and all you do for the MD of Foothills!

Sincerely,
Jason

May 23 Update - Fire Advisory, Burn Permit Updates and Summer Road Bans

Quick 3 Minute Video Update

Fire Advisory, Burn Permit Updates and Summer Road Bans

Note: If your are receiving this in your email and the video below does not show up, click the link above it to be taken to the website to view it.

For more information on:

• The Fire Advisory, CLICK HERE.
• Burn Permits and regulations, CLICK HERE.
• Summer Road Bans, CLICK HERE.

Fire Advisory in Effect

There is a fire advisory in the MD of Foothills as of today. It is still ok to get burn permits, it is ok to use burning barrels and campfires.

The advisory is to remind people that it is dry out and fires can get away from you very easily. Please be careful and do not leave any fire unattended. With the warm trend that is happening in southern Alberta, the Foothills Fire Department along with Agriculture and Forestry will keep a watch on conditions in the MD of Foothills.

Look at albertafirebans.ca or the MD of Foothills Website or Facebook page for any changes.

James (Jim) Smith, SCO-Fire

Foothills Fire Chief

309 MacLeod Trail  | Box 5605  | High River, AB  | T1V 1M7

Summer Road Bans are now in place

For more information and details on which roads are still banned go to:  https://www.mdfoothills.com/services/public-works--engineering.html

Construction Highway 762 and 549

Construction Updates Highways 762 and 549

Highway 762 from 549 to 22

The final lift will be put down the full length of Highway 762 and lines will be painted starting May 15th and is scheduled to be completed by June 29th (weather permitting of course).  This should finally complete the project.

Spring Coulee Bridge on Hwy 549

Repairs are to be completed on the Spring Coulee Bridge on Highway 549 near Okotoks

High Country Rural Crime Watch Event

You are invited to an *Important* High Country Rural Crime Watch Event on June 9, 2018

(Information from https://www.facebook.com/HighCountryRuralCrimeWatch/)

We want to fight back against the current Crime Climate by giving you information on how to protect yourself. So, our local Crime Watch is bringing in a guest speaker, Kerry Sauve, to teach us bout “Removing yourself and your property from the victim pool”. Please join us on Saturday, June 9, 2018, from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon at the Priddis Community Hall. We are asking for a donation to cover our costs: $5 per person. And there is a special bonus: A PDF copy of Kerry’s book, “StreetSafe 360°”, will be shared with those in attendance.

Kerry Sauve was referred to HCRCWA by the Red Deer County Rural Crime Watch. He has an incredible background of training special forces, working in the security field, working as a first-responder and is a veteran Correctional Peace Officer with over 20 years of front line experience working with gang members. Part of his portfolio is providing gang prevention and intervention programs to the youth incarcerated in the facility where he works. A second service he provides is awareness training for community partners, law-enforcement and the public. He shares his vast knowledge to help people learn, prepare and get a plan in place.

Municipal District of Foothills No. 31 or Foothills County?

Your Feedback is Important

PLEASE FILL OUT THE QUESTIONNAIRE provided in your tax notice or by going to the link HERE.

Council for the Municipal District of Foothills No. 31 (MD) first proposed a name change over five years ago. On the 7th of February, 2018, Councillors for the MD passed a resolution to submit an application to the Province of Alberta to change the name to Foothills County.

Council felt this was an appropriate time to revisit the proposed name change for several reasons.

Cost is usually the most obvious and significant issue to consider. One of the larger costs is signage. The MD has gateway signage on the main highways that pass through our area. This signage has needed to be replaced for some time now, as some signage has come down due to age and deterioration. Replacement of the gateway signage has been budgeted for, whether the name changes or not. Other signage on MD rural roads would only be replaced as needed.

Decals on municipal vehicles would be replaced as needed, when they are worn and need replacing, or when a new vehicle is brought into the fleet.

Summer Road Bans Take Effect May 22/18

CURRENT SPRING BAN STILL IN PLACE

For more information and details on which roads are still banned go to: https://www.mdfoothills.com/services/public-works--engineering.html

May 9 Update - Responsible Dog Ownership Bylaw and Community Standards Bylaw Proposed Updates

MD Council Looking at Amendments

Today council looked at proposed amendments to the MD's current Dog Bylaw and Community Standards Bylaw as presented by staff.  Council made some proposed changes and will now go to do some public engagement to get feedback from residents on the proposed changes.

Watch the 3 minute video below for more information.

Open Houses for Resident Feedback

Council provided feedback and authorized administration to proceed with the public consultation process prior to submitting the Bylaw with amendments to Council for approval.  To get feedback from residents, Open Houses will be held:

Water Meter Replacement Update

Landfill Extended Hours

GOOD NEWS - $3 million to the MD of Foothills for "Emergency Preparedness"

All Residents of the MD Will Benefit... 

Of the $10 million dollars announced by the province earmarked for "Emergency Preparedness" the MD of Foothills will be the recipients of $3 million.  The funds will go towards a Provincial stockpile of equipment and supplies (i.e.: pumps, hose, sand bags and other supplies for flood prevention) that will be stored in the MD of Foothills

MD staff is still in conversation with the Province as to exactly what will be purchased and included.  They are also discussing with the Province ways to make distribution of the supplies in the state of emergency more seamless.

It sounds as though the MD may also receive an additional $10,000 per year from the province (in addition to the $15,000 they currently receive) for storage and maintenance of the stockpile. Click the video below for more details.

As I receive further information, I will be sure to post it here so be sure to enter your email in the top right hand corner of the page to receive future updates.

Province Announces $10 million to go towards "Emergency Preparedness"

Province Being Proactive for Future Flooding

The Province of Alberta has earmarked $10 million for "Emergency Preparedness".  They made the announcement last night (click here for details) that was a surprise for MD staff as there has been only preliminary discussions on how the funds will be distributed.

As I receive more information, I will post it here and on Facebook.

MD Wide Road Ban Lifted (Regular Bans still in effect)

Effective May 2, 2018, 10:00 am.

75% road ban on all municipal roads including gravel roads has been lifted.
REGULAR ROAD BANS ARE STILL in effect. 

For more information on the current Road Bans, click here 

IMPORTANT UPDATE - Apr 24 - Melting snow

INFORMATION ALERT

Melting snow along with the frost/thaw cycle is causing poor road conditions throughout the MD. 

If you have concerns and have infrastructure at risk of water, the MD does provide sand bags and sand (you are responsible for filling them).

If you are aware of roads that are affected by water or conditions have deteriorated, please contact Public Works at: 403-652-2390

Remember, there is a 75% ban on roads, click here for Road Ban details.

Public Alerting Direct to Your Cell Phone

Public Alerting Direct to Your Cell Phone

Alerting continues to evolve and find new ways to provide alerts to Canadians. Effective April 6th 2018, the most serious alerts will go directly to wireless devices (compatible smartphones, some tablets, and potentially other electronics) in an impacted area.

More information can be found at AlertReady and the Alberta Emergency Alert websites.

ROAD BAN (75%) IN EFFECT

ROAD BAN IS NOW 75%

Effective Immediately - Road ban is now 75% on all Municipal roads!

Due to the extreme winter and rapid spring thaw conditions, the M.D. of Foothills is implementing a maximum 75% load ban on all municipal roads including gravel unless stated lower. Please note this is the first time gravel roads have been included in a road ban. The ban will be lifted as soon as road conditions allow.

Agricultural users will be allowed to apply for a permit for road use. Permits are no fee and will require your name, 911 address and route to the nearest Provincial Highway. 

To obtain a permit with 24-hour notice, call:
Roaddata: 1-888-444-9288

GOOD NEWS - High Speed Internet Update

Internet Update - Good News for those West of Millarville!

The area is a recipient of $217,000 from the Connect to Innovate federal government grant to improve internet in partnership with a company called Rigstar.

Watch your mail if you are in the Kew area for information either from Rigstar or ABnet about internet expansion out that way. They will be doing some community outreach and public engagement.

If you know someone out that way that is having internet issues,