Don Kochan – Division 2
RVC Division 2 news items for your information:
2024 Budget – The 2024 budget was passed by Council on April 9th. Of interest is the following motions that were passed:
MOVED by Deputy Reeve Kochan that the operating and capital budget adjustment presented in Attachment B be amended as follows: That Council approve a tax increase of 0% in 2024.
MOVED by Deputy Reeve Kochan that the operating and capital budget adjustment presented in Attachment B be amended as follows: That a utility rate increase for water and wastewater services of 3% be applied in the 2024 budget.
MOVED by Deputy Reeve Kochan that Administration report back to Council with an update on the net amount to be transferred to the Tax Stabilization Reserve.
The draft budget was proposing a 3% increase in taxes however Council determined a 0% increase was more appropriate considering the current economic times. Even with a 0% increase in property taxes there will be a significant amount of dollars contributed to the tax stabilization fund. The significant increase in tax revenue is a result of an increase in assessment growth of 1.3 billion dollars, the majority of which is from the non-residential sector. The increase in rates for the County run utility systems is required to recover the increased costs of operating those systems. This is also intended to commence the requirement for full cost recovery of the utility systems so that the tax payers not connected to the utility are not subsidizing them.
Springbank Area Structure Plan (ASP) – Planning staff are working on a feasibility report of combining the Central Springbank, North Springbank and Moddle Area Structure Plans (ASP) into one ASP with the intent to maintain the existing land use strategies while implementing minor amendments that ensure alignment with higher order policy and guiding documents adopted since the approval of the ASPs. The report is planned to be presented to Council on options for the Springbank ASP on May 28th, 2024. Council will then provide its’ direction to administration and administration will prepare a combined ASP or ASP amendments for Council’s consideration at a future scheduled public hearing. Administration will continue to provide regular updates on the Springbank ASP through the County’s website and through e-mail for those registered to receive project updates. Please visit www.rockyview.ca/springbank-area-structure-plan to learn more.
Spring Road Bans – Spring road bans in Rocky View County are a crucial measure to protect our roads and ensure safe travel for everyone. These bans, effective from March 27, 2024, until June 14, 2024 (tentative), primarily target commercial and heavy vehicles with heavy loads. During this period, the roads undergo a significant transition due to the spring thaw, making them soft and susceptible to damage. By restricting certain vehicles, we aim to extend the lifespan of our roads, reducing repair costs, and ultimately enhancing safety for all motorists.
To support farmers during this time, the County provides exemptions through Annual Agricultural Permits. These permits help lessen the impact of road bans on farmers’ hauling operations, ensuring they can continue their essential work while respecting the road restrictions. Your cooperation with these measures is greatly appreciated as we work together to maintain and preserve our road infrastructure.
Bingham Crossing Project – As a further update to the Bingham Crossing project, Administration has provided the following:
The design of Highway 1 & Range Road 33 Interchange for Bingham Crossing is currently under review by Alberta Transportation and Rocky View County. Subject to approval, the developer will be required to submit traffic accommodation plans that include proposed detours for the construction zone. These plans will require approval by Alberta Transportation and Rocky View County prior to the start of construction.
The project currently has a dedicated website, which can be viewed at: Highway 1 & Range Road 33 Interchange | Rocky View County. Information such as approved Traffic Accommodation Plans will be added to the website. Communication including important notices to area residents will also be through the County’s Safe & Sound notification system. The communication process will be finalized in consultation with the developer to ensure important project information is captured and relayed to area residents with as much advance notice as possible.
Don Kochan – Deputy Reeve
Division 2 Councillor
kochandiv2@gmail.com
