Village of Valemount, British Columbia
2016 Annual Report and Financial Report For the year ended December 31, 2016
Prepared by: Village of Valemount In cooperation with Finance, Public Works, Bylaw, Administration and Economic Development Departments
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Village of Valemount
2016 Annual Report and Financial Report
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTORY INFORMATION
Message from the Mayor ………………………………………………………………………….…… 4
Mayor and Council Roles & Stipends .…………………………………………………….……….. 5
Council Appointments & Committees …………………………………………………..……….. 7
Annual Report Requirements ……………………………………………………………………..…. 10
Vision, Mission, and Corporate Values……………………………………………………….….. 11
Village of Valemount Profile………………………………………………………………………...... 12
Municipal Services……………………………………………………………………………………..…… 15
2015‐2019 Corporate Strategic Plan …….………………………………………………………… 18
2015‐2019 UPDATED Corporate Strategic Plan ...………………………………………..…. 22
2016 Important Projects in Review………………………………………………………….…….. 23
Message from the CAO……………………………………………………………………………….…. 28
Organizational Chart………………………………………………………………………………………. 29
Current Departmental Operations….………………………………..………………………….…. 30
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STATISTICAL INFORMATION
Public Input, Declarations of Disqualification & Permissive Tax Exemptions…. 33
Development Statistics…………………………………………………………………………………… 34
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Appendix 25 Year Financial Plan Bylaw No. 754, 2016………………………….…………
Appendix 1 ‐ 2014 Financial Statements and Auditor’s Report………………………
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Village of Valemount
2016 Annual Report and Financial Report
INTRODUCTORY
INFORMATION
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Village of Valemount
2016 Annual Report and Financial Report
Message from the Mayor
Council and I continue to focus on our role to protect and advance
the interests of the citizens of our community to the best of our
ability. We are ever mindful of keeping the quality of life enjoyable
for our residents by supporting efforts to create a more diversified
and growing economy in which our residents would have access to a
broader range of employment opportunities. We work hard to
balance social well‐being with fiscal prudence.
Together with our MLA, Minister Shirley Bond, Ministry Staff, Village
Senior Staff, Council and I engaged in a strategic planning session in
September. A review of the previous strategic agenda was conducted
and updated. Water, sewer and infrastructure remain the top
priorities.
Creating an environment to encourage economic diversification and manageable growth also remains a
high priority with Council and me. The Economic Development Committee, which was created last year
with members selected for their knowledge and expertise is successful. Together with the Village
Economic Development Officer, Silvio Gislimberti, their considerations and subsequent
recommendations are valuable to economic development plans for future economic well‐being in
Valemount.
Continued good relations with the Simpcw First Nation, remain high on Council’s and my list of
importance. It was a special honour to be included and asked to speak during the commemoration of
the One Hundredth Anniversary of their ancestors being forced to leave Tete Jaune. I suggested to
Chief Nathan Matthew that his Nation give consideration to making this an annual event in order to
commemorate the significant ordeal in the history of their ancestors and to honour them by so doing.
Council and I look forward to the ensuing year. It is our plan to once again foster citizen engagement and to maintain an open door policy.
Jeannette Townsend
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Mayor:
The Mayor is the Chief Executive Officer of the Municipality and a member of Council, the Mayor
is responsible to provide leadership to Council, including recommending bylaws, resolutions and
others measures that in the Mayor’s opinion, may assist the peace, order and good government
of the municipality. The Mayor’s role is also to communicate information to Council; to preside
at Council meetings; to provide, on behalf of the Council, general direction to municipal officers
respecting implementation of municipal policies, programs and other directions of the Council;
and to represent the best interests of the citizens of the municipality.
Councillor:
Every Council member is responsible to contribute to the development and evaluation of the
policies and programs of the municipality respecting its services and other activities; to
participate in Council meetings, Committee meetings and meetings of other bodies to which a
member is appointed; to carry out the duties assigned by Council; to consider the well‐being and
interests of the corporation, and to represent the best interests of the citizens of the
municipality.
2016 Council Remuneration
Name Stipend Expenses Total
Mayor Townsend $18,006.03 $8,860.60 $28,866.63
Councillor Blanchette $8,103.12 $2,524.32 $10,627.44
Councillor Reimer $8,103.12 $4,821.02 $12,924.14
Councillor Salt $8,103.12 $4,701.99 $12,805.11
Councillor Torgerson $8,103.12 $4,229.27 $12,332.39
TOTALS $50,418.51 $25,137.20 $75,555.71
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Village of Valemount
2016 Annual Report and Financial Report
Council Appointments / Committees
Standing Committees
Columbia Basin Trust Community Councillor Blanchette
Initiatives and Affected Areas Programs Mayor Townsend, ex officio
Emergency Management Committee Councillor Salt
Councillor Torgerson
Mayor Townsend, ex officio
Public Works & Traffic Committee Councillor Reimer
Councillor Torgerson
Mayor Townsend, ex officio
Tourism Valemount Committee Councillor Torgerson
Councillor Salt
Mayor Townsend, ex officio
Lease Committee Councillor Reimer
Councillor Salt
Mayor Townsend, ex officio
Select Committees
Valemount Museum Building Committee Councillor Reimer
Mayor Townsend, ex officio
Direct Heat use Committee Councillor Torgerson
Mayor Townsend, ex officio
Economic Development Committee Councillor Reimer
Mayor Townsend, ex officio
Housing Committee Councillor Reimer
Mayor Townsend, ex officio
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Commissions
Appointment of Advisory Planning None may be appointed. See Section 10 of
Commission Members Bylaw 694, 2013
External Boards, Committees and Agencies
Regional District of Fraser Mayor Townsend, ex officio
Fort George Board of Directors Councillor Reimer – alternate
Valemount and Area Recreation Councillor Torgerson
Development Association (VARDA)
Board of Directors
Valemount Community Forests Councillor Reimer
Board of Directors Councillor Torgerson
Prince George Treaty Advisory Councillor Salt
Committee
Robson Valley Regional Marketing Mayor Townsend
Initiative Steering Committee
Valemount Community Television (VCTV) Councillor Reimer
Yellowhead Highway Association Councillor Salt
Mayor Townsend – alternate
Municipal Finance Authority (MFA) of BC Councillor Salt
Municipal Insurance Association (MIA) of BC Councillor Reimer
Mayor Townsend – alternate
Local Health Liaison (Northern Health) Councillor Blanchette
Canoe Valley Recreation Centre (Arena) Councillor Blanchette
Committee
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Robson Valley Support Society Councillor Blanchette
Board of Directors
Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) Mayor Townsend
Board of Directors
Columbia Basin Regional Advisory
Committee (CBRAC) Mayor Townsend
Omineca Beetle Coalition (OBAC) Mayor Townsend
Board of Directors Councillor Torgerson – alternate
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Village of Valemount
2016 Annual Report and Financial Report
Annual Report Requirements
In accordance with Section 98 of the Community Charter, the
Annual Report is due before June 30th. The Annual Report outlines
the following:
the municipality’s audited annual financial statements for the previous year;
a list of the permissive tax exemptions provided by council and for each exemption, the
amount of property tax that would have been imposed during the previous year if the
exemption had not been granted;
a report on the municipality’s services and operations for the previous year;
a progress report on the performance of the municipality with respect to established
objectives and measures;
a statement of objectives and measures that will be used as the basis for determining
the municipality
performance during the current year; and
The details of any declarations of disqualification made against individual council
members during the previous year.
Once completed the annual report must be made available for publish inspection. After
making the report public, council must wait a minimum of two weeks before holding an annual
meeting on the report. This provides citizens with time to review the annual report ask
questions and prepare submissions. Council must give notice of the date, time and place of
the annul meeting in accordance with Community Charter‘s requirement for public notice.
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Village of Valemount
2016 Annual Report and Financial Report
Vision, Mission and Corporate Values
Vision: Striving for a Vibrant and Balanced Community
Mission: To Serve the Community and Embrace Opportunity
Corporate Values: Approachable and Accountable, Passionate about the
Environment, Committed to Innovation and Change,
Transparent, Ethical and Professional and Committed to Service
Excellence
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Village of Valemount
2016 Annual Report and Financial Report
Profile
Valemount is the home of Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, and is in the watershed of the Fraser and Columbia basins. It is located on the Yellowhead Highway 5, near the northern tip of Kinbasket Lake, 300 km south of Prince George, 320 km north of Kamloops, and 120 km west of Jasper.
Valemount is a rural community of approximately 1,002 residents on an area of 399 hectares or 4 square km. Valemount is also the commercial centre for another 700 people who live in the Regional District of Fraser‐Fort George (Area H), from Albreda to Small River.
Today Valemount’s economy is based on tourism and logging. Important tourist attractions include Cranberry Marsh, a designated Wildlife Management Area and sanctuary for wild birds, amazing snowmobiling, ski‐touring, cross‐country skiing and heli‐skiing in winter, and hiking, camping, canoeing, white‐water rafting, mountain biking, and trail riding in summer. Valemount offers natural beauty, quiet solitude, and clean mountain air.
Valemount is nestled between Cariboo, Monashee and Canadian Rockies. The topography primarily consists of Paleozoic or sedimentary and Proterozoic, sedimentary and minor volcanic rock. It is an area of glacial drift and colluviums with sandy deposits being the main glacial features.
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The Village of Valemount is served by 911, the RCMP, a volunteer Fire Department, and BC Ambulance Service. The Valemount Community Health Centre is a full service health centre with 3 full‐time doctors, support staff, lab technicians, and nurses, and additional services include a licensed daycare and pre‐school, an elementary school and a high school. The Valemount Airport lies five kilometers to the east of town.
An active library and a museum housed in a former train station are additional attractions, as is the beautiful Visitor Information Centre near the entrance to Valemount.
Mica Dam operations commenced in 1974. The lake lies 30 kilometres to the south of
Valemount, and the Canoe River is a tributary to the Columbia System
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Annual Community Events
A number of popular annual events occur in and around Valemount, as well as unique events
organized each year. Annual events include the following.
Canoe Mountain Rodeo
an event for the whole family
High School Rodeo
a regional event for teenage competitors
Valemountain Days
a summer festival with a parade, ball
tournament, logger’s sports, dance, and more
Valemount Farmer’s Market, vendors get
together weekly to provide fresh vegetables,
gluten free treats, local wares, concession,
buskers and more!
The Robson Valley Music Festival, with grass roots, multi‐genre musicians, artisan booths and
a variety of ethnic foods
Winter Fest, lots of kids activities including food, dog sledding tobogganing, curling and more!
Annual Lilac Walk, Culp Farm in Dunster, Gene and Linda Blackman’s in Tete Jaune, tea and
goodies in the garden at Tete Jaune
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The Annual Fishing Derby
Fun for the whole family on Kinbasket Lake;
Labour Day weekend
The Mount Robson Marathon
a spectacular run route, with local music and artisans as
well as a kid’s fun run
Annual Chili Cook Off
sponsored by the Valemount Best Western
Canada Day includes a variety of events at the
Valemount Museum, Valemount & Mount
Robson Visitor Centre and Village Sports Plex
grounds; kids activities, live entertainment, cake
cutting, concessions, fireworks
Blueberry Tea Event A celebration of blueberries! Blueberry tea and snacks at the Valemount
Museum
The Northwest Mud Racing Event, with a mud pit for enthusiasts
The Annual Dunster Ice Cream Social, a wonderful family event
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Village of Valemount
2016 Annual Report and Financial Report
Municipal Services Overview
Tax payers and residents often overlook the sheer volume and value of services provided by
their local governments. While a great number of services are provided by local governments,
often less than half of the property tax bill goes to the municipality.
Village Taxes
Regional District
School
Policing
Hospital
BC Assessment
Village Parcel Tax
Village Village
Parcel Tax Property Tax
5% 37%
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Some of the services provided within the Village of Valemount include:
Streets and Roads
Paving, pot hole patching and crack repairs, maintenance of sidewalks and shoulders,
maintenance and installation of signage, line painting, maintenance of public parking areas,
snow removal, street sweeping, ditch and storm drainage maintenance, signage, and lighting.
Water Systems
Provision of treated and safe drinking water, provision of water and hydrants for fire
protection purposes, and water conservation initiatives.
Sewer Systems
Collection, treatment and disposal of domestic sanitary sewage.
Garbage Collection
Residential and commercial garbage (solid waste) collection and disposal, and cardboard
recycling pickup provided by Public Works.
Parks Facilities
Maintenance of community owned parks and facilities (and contract maintenance of some
Regional District park facilities); includes parks equipment maintenance and upgrading.
Cemetery Services
Maintenance of community cemetery is provided by Public Works equipment and man hours.
Maintenance of community cemetery database and mapping is provided by village office staff.
Animal Control
Provision of animal control services (primarily dog control and licensing).
Building Inspection and Fire Inspection
Provision of building inspection services to provide compliance with Provincial building,
plumbing and fire code regulations.
Subdivision Approvals
Subdivision approvals to ensure compliance with local land development regulations and
provide consistency in land servicing.
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Zoning and Land Use
Provision of regulations for compliance with zoning, consistency, and advance indication of
land uses.
Bylaw Services
Education and enforcement of local land use, nuisance and related regulations, with education
and enforcement initiated upon citizen complaint.
Economic Development
Policies and programs to provide community infrastructure and to improve the business
climate through specific efforts—in other words, economic development may be defined as
creating the right conditions for retaining existing business and attracting new business.
Tourism Development
Operation of Tourist Information Centre and promotion of tourism development and tourist
attraction opportunities.
Recreation Programs
The Village assists in the promotion of recreational programs in the community through
provision of facilities, advertising and assistance with program delivery.
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Village of Valemount
2016 Annual Report and Financial Report
2015‐2018 Strategic Priorities Review
The 2016 – 2020 Corporate Strategic Plan
Strategic planning is the process of determining a municipality’s long term vision and goals,
and developing strategies and projects to achieve those goals.
A day‐long workshop was held in December 2015 with Council and senior staff to update
current and emerging issues and then prioritized the themes into the following 20 priorities for
2016 – 2020:
Public Health – Water and Sewer Systems
2016 The Village was approved for $470,000 towards the $705,000 project of replacing the lift station located on Hwy 5 and 5th Avenue.
2017 Village staff will continue to apply for grants to enhance the Village’s water and sewer systems
Zoning Bylaw Updates
2016 Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 751, 2016: text amendments to Village of Valemount’s High Density Residential (R5) Zoning Schedule in order to support future residential development. Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 744, 2015 (Passed in 2016) – Rezone of portion of 202 Ash to allow multi‐family residential use.
2017 Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 770 – Amends the Rural Residential 2 Zone to allow a second principal dwelling. Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 768 – Allow for indefinite existing residential use in Avenue C1 Zone.
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Valemount Glacier Destination Resort (VGDR) Support
2016 Continued to work with the proponent and other stakeholders throughout 2016 to ensure that the proposed project considers the objectives of the community and addresses local concerns. March 16, 2016, the Mountain Resorts Branch of the Ministry of Forests, Lands, and Natural Resource Operations held a formal Open House in Valemount. It was attended by more than 200 people and local residents could review all aspects of the proposed resort. On July 25, 2016, Jill Bodkin and Oberto Oberti attended the barbecue hosted by the Valemount Community Forest and met with the Mayor and Council, with Minister Shirley Bond and with Bob Zimmer, Member of Parliament. On August 16, 2016, the Mountain Resorts Branch of the Ministry of Forests, Lands, and Natural Resource Operations approved the Master Plan for the project.
2017 Continue to support VGDR
Streamline Development Procedures
2016 Development Variance Permit Procedure amended – required advertising amended from newspaper to web ad. Decreases processing time by 2 weeks
2017 To be reviewed by Village staff
Pre‐zoned Land Issues
2016 None
2017 To be reviewed by Village staff
Water Resources
2016 Received CBT funding – Hired a Water Smart Ambassador to provide lawn and garden assessments that educated residents about efficient watering practices and why they’re important, as well as educate about the watering bylaws Enforce watering restrictions during summer months
2017 Continue to enforce watering restrictions during summer months Provide tours of the Water Treatment Plant to elementary school students to promote water conservation Apply for further funding: ‐Develop a risk framework and prioritize water rehabilitation needs
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‐Review potential development scenarios, and identify growth and climate change ‐related infrastructure needs
Finance and Taxes
2016
2017
Exploring Geothermal
2016 Continued to work with Geoscience BC, the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training to develop an exploration program in the Valemount area to identify potential sources of geothermal heat for direct‐use. The Village in partnership with the Valemount Community Forest organized a Geothermal Industrial Park and Direct‐Heat Use Workshop. The workshop was held in Valemount, February 12–February 13, 2016. The event was sponsored by the Southern Interior Beetle Action Coalition (SIBAC) and over eighty participants attended the workshop. Forty‐six participants came from Valemount. As a result of the successful workshop the Valemount Geothermal Society was formed and Council established the Direct Heat Use committee.
2017
Financial Reserves
2016 Received UBCM funding ‐ Had study completed by FCS to determine required rates to secure future water and sewer maintenance, and replacement
2017 Will apply for further funding: Develop an integrated 10 year asset management plan Develop a financial policy for funding capital assets for application by the Village Assess the impact on user rates, taxation and development cost charges
Clean‐up Unsightly Properties
2016 Partnered with Regional District of Fraser Fort George for “Spring Clean‐up Day”. Provides limited fees for disposal and assistance with debris pick‐up from public works department.
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2017 Continue to partner with Regional District of Fraser Fort George for “Spring Clean‐up Day” Review options for removal of derelict vehicles Promote a fall clean‐up Educate public regarding bylaws
Emergency Planning
2016 Began to review current emergency plan
2017 Will update emergency plan, and Village emergency supplies. Have all staff and Council educated with both.
Community Engagement
2016 In partnership with Community Forests, the Village had a public BBQ on July 25, 2016. Jill Bodkin and Oberto Oberti attended the barbecue hosted by the and met with the Mayor and Council, with Minister Shirley Bond and with Bob Zimmer, Member of Parliament.
2017
First Nations Relationships
2016 Simpcw representatives attended the Geothermal Industrial Park and Direct‐Heat Use Workshop and all open‐house meetings and public hearings regarding the Valemount Glacier Destination Resort project. Mayor Townsend and staff members attended the Simpcw First Nation Marking 100th Anniversary of Forced Relocation held in Tete Jaune, on August 13, 2016.
2017 Review options for Community to Community engagement
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Engage Youth
2016 Organized a tour with the Elementary School children to tour the Sewer Plant and Water Treatment Plant which included water conservation education and ended with a BBQ and take home “goodie bags” which included water timers
2017 Continue to
Engage Chamber & Local businesses
2016 Approved for NDIT Façade Program – Partnered with the Chamber of Commerce to administer the program that allows up to 50% or $5,000 towards a businesses façade improvements. Approved for NIDT Small Town Love program – Small Town Love is a unique marketing campaign that celebrates locally‐owned, independent businesses with an aim to strengthen their competitiveness and keep more dollars in the local economy.
2017 Will continue to partner with the Chamber of Commerce on the NDIT Façade program
Update Public Facilities
2016 The Village was approved for $470,000 towards the $705,000 project of replacing the lift station located on Hwy 5 and 5th Avenue. Completed crack sealing on 5th Avenue roads Continue to reserve funds for future Cemetery Upgraded Library doors Approved Library board to apply for funding for renovations (addition and access to basement) Installed new lighting in Visitor Information Centre Painted structures at Sports Plex The Village received $15,514 towards the expense of crack sealing the airport runway and taxiway.
2017 Approved for funding towards Museum renovations (siding, roofing, painting) Applying for funding for automatic door openers at Library Apply for funding for further upgrades to Sports Plex structures Further Crack Sealing Further work will be done at the airport with tree removal around the surrounding area and repainting lines. Street line painitng
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Human Resources Development
2016 Secured Interim CAO in order to recruit permanent CAO
2017 Review staffing levels
Integrated Community Sustainability Plan (ISCP)
2016
2017
Valemount Community Forest
2016 In partnership with Community Forests, the Village had a public BBQ on July 25, 2016. Jill Bodkin and Oberto Oberti attended the barbecue hosted by the and met with the Mayor and Council, with Minister Shirley Bond and with Bob Zimmer, Member of Parliament.
2017
GeoPark (Clearwater & North Thompson)
2016
2017
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Village of Valemount
2016 Annual Report and Financial Report
2016 Important Projects Review
2016 Important Projects Review
Cranberry Marsh The boardwalk section of the Cranberry Marsh Trail was inaugurated on May 30th, 2016. After long nine years, two impressive cedar boardwalk sections of 600 metres and a trail section of 320 metres complete the trail of six kilometres around Cranberry Marsh. The project was completed thanks to funding contributions from the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training through the Resort Municipality Initiative Program ($292,483) and the Columbia Basin Trust through the Community Initiatives Program ($68,662). Tourism Valemount will continue to work with Ducks Unlimited, the Nature Trust of Canada, and Ministry of Environment to improve the existing trail sections and also create wheelchair accessible sections. The hiking trail around Cranberry Marsh is a beautiful 6‐kilometre walk on flat terrain through conserved wetland. The scenery varies from wide open vistas on the dikes to secluded pathways through a forest of Black Spruce and Aspen. There are two lookout towers located along the trail.
May 30, 2016: Minister Shirley Bond and Mayor Jeannette Townsend
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Valemount Glacier Destination Resort The Village of Valemount continued to work with the proponent and other stakeholders throughout 2016 to ensure that the proposed project considers the objectives of the community and addresses local concerns. On March 16, 2016, the Mountain Resorts Branch of the Ministry of Forests, Lands, and Natural Resource Operations held a formal Open House in Valemount. It was attended by more than 200 people and local residents could review all aspects of the proposed resort. On July 25, 2016, Jill Bodkin and Oberto Oberti attended the barbecue hosted by the Valemount Community Forest and met with the Mayor and Council, with Minister Shirley Bond and with Bob Zimmer, Member of Parliament. On August 16, 2016, the Mountain Resorts Branch of the Ministry of Forests, Lands, and Natural Resource Operations approved the Master Plan for the project. Geothermal Exploration In 2016, the Village continued to work with Geoscience BC, the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training to develop an exploration program in the Valemount area to identify potential sources of geothermal heat for direct‐use. The Village in partnership with the Valemount Community Forest organized a Geothermal Industrial Park and Direct‐Heat Use Workshop. The workshop was held in Valemount, February 12–February 13, 2016. The keynote speakers came from various geographic regions and different expertise areas; for instance Bernie Karl, Chena Hot Springs Resort Chena, Alaska and Tonya “Toni” Boyd, Formerly Geo‐Heat Center, Klamath Falls, Oregon. Alison Thompson, Chair, Canadian Geothermal Energy Association and Craig Dunn, P. Geo Chief Geologist, Borealis Geopower Calgary, Alberta gave presentations relevant to the Valemount area. Mike Sato, Sea to Sky Onsen Inc., Squamish, BC. The event was sponsored by the Southern Interior Beetle Action Coalition (SIBAC) and over eighty participants attended the workshop. Forty‐six participants came from Valemount. As a result of the successful workshop the Valemount Geothermal Society was formed and Council established the Direct Heat Use committee. Housing Committee Mayor and Council expressed the desire to follow a list of recommendations expressed in the Valemount Affordable Housing Needs and Demands Assessment study prepared for the Village by Housing Strategies Inc., in January 2016. A Housing Committee was formed in the fall of 2016. The committee deals with housing data collection, strategic planning, funding of projects, society forms to deal with housing, and zoning and bylaws.
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Economic Development Committee Mayor and Council resolved to form a select committee of Council to deal with economic development planning and prioritizing. The committee started to meet in May 2016. The guiding principles of the committee are expressed in the Robson‐Canoe Valleys Economic Opportunities Plan prepared by Millier Dickinson Blais for the Regional District of Fraser‐Fort George in 2010. Community to Community In 2016 no official Community to Community meeting was held with the Simpcw FN. However, Simpcw representatives attended the Geothermal Industrial Park and Direct‐Heat Use Workshop and all open‐house meetings and public hearings regarding the Valemount Glacier Destination Resort project. Mayor Townsend and staff members attended the Simpcw First Nation Marking 100th Anniversary of Forced Relocation held in Tete Jaune, on August 13, 2016. Tourism Statistics In 2016, hotels and motels within the municipal boundaries registered
137,367 Visitor nights Accommodation revenues $8,242,031 excluding B&Bs
Visitor revenues $9,615,703 in addition to accommodation
Average length of stay 1.4 Accommodation revenues increase of 3.4% compared to 2015
Average Annual Occupancy Rate 56.8%
These numbers are based on Municipal Regional District Tax (Hotel room tax).
Lift Station Replacement – 5th Ave and Hwy 5
The Village was approved for $470,000 towards the $705,000 project of replacing the lift
station located on Hwy 5 and 5th Avenue. The lift station on 5th Avenue was in immediate
need of replacement in order to ensure that the overall wastewater collection system
continued to adequately serve the community. Furthermore, a more reliable wastewater
collection system will improve confidence in public services, which has the potential to create
a stronger business climate in the community. Finally, the new equipment will be more energy
efficient, reducing electrical consumption and providing potential cost savings to the Village of
Valemount. This project began in 2016 and will be finalized in 2017.
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CBT Water Smart Ambassador
Partnering with the Columbia Basin Trust in water conservation, the Village of Valemount
hired Madeline Pickerl as the Water Smart Ambassador for the summer of 2016. The focus of
the Water Smart Program is to provide lawn and garden assessments that educate residents of the
community about efficient watering practices and why they’re important, as well as educate about
the watering bylaw.
Canada Day
In 2016 the Village of Valemount contributed funding to the Canada Day events including local
entertainment, children’s events, Canada Day cake and fireworks.
Grant Writer
In 2016 Northern Development Initiative Trust and Valemount Community Forests provided
funding to allow the Village to hire a part time grant writer. With the aid of the grant writer
the Village was able to apply for and achieve grants that otherwise could not be obtained.
Village of Valemount Airport
The Village received $15,514 towards the expense of crack sealing the airport runway and
taxiway. This is the first step towards enhancing the airport facilities where further work will
be done with tree removal around the surrounding area and repainting lines.
BC Hydro Tree Canada Program
The Community Tree Planting Program provided the Vilalge with $5,000 to beautify two main areas
along the Big Foot Trail. Trees and shrubs created three focal points along the Big Foot Trail that
connects the Visitor Information Centre on Hwy 5 with Valemount’s downtown area, the library and
the museum on main street.
NDIT Business Façade Improvement Program
In partnership with the Northern Development Initiative Trust and the Valemount and Area
Chamber of Commerce, the Village of Valemount administered the Business Façade
Improvement program for downtown businesses in 2016. Northern Development’s Business
Façade Improvement program provides municipalities with $20,000 which can be accessed by
local businesses to complete exterior improvements to their storefronts. Businesses are
eligible for a 50% reimbursement of the total project cost, up to $5,000. In 2016, 6 businesses
participated in the program and successfully completed exterior renovations:
Alpine Country Rentals
Chalet Continental Motel
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The Valley Sentinel
Valemount Swiss Bakery
VARDA
Yellowhead Realty
The Village and the Chamber of Commerce will be delivering the program again in 2017, and it
will now be available to all business in the highway entry & highway corridor area, as well as
businesses in the downtown.
Manufacturing Capacity Due Diligence‐Vegetation Resource Inventory
Partnering with the Valemount Community Forests, the Village received a grant from BC Rural
Dividends in the amount of $100,000 for the purpose of Manufacturing Capacity Due
Diligence‐Vegetation Resource Inventory.
This project encompasses ground checks, verification of the vegetation compilation of all
information including forest cover identification, digital mapping and a database. It is to
develop a modern and comprehensive technology tool to assess the capacity of the newly
acquired community forest area covering approx. 13,197 hectares.
Love Valemount
The Village of Valemount partnered with the Northern Development Initiative Trust in 2013 to
serve as a pilot community for the Small Town Love program. Small Town Love is a unique
marketing campaign that celebrates locally‐owned, independent businesses with an aim to
strengthen their competitiveness and keep more dollars in the local economy. Since the
launch of the program in 2013, over 35 local businesses have come on board and now have
their products, services and stories featured through the unique community web portal,
www.lovevalemount.ca. While the program became dormant through 2016, the newly hired
grant clerk has taken the program by storm and is currently bringing the program back to full
speed in 2017.
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Village of Valemount
2016 Annual Report and Financial Report
Message from the Chief Administrative Officer
With the official announcement of the Valemount Glacier Destination Resort
and signing of the Master Development Agreement with the Province and
Simpcw First Nation, the Village of Valemount has now entered a period of
significant change and anticipated growth. In order to support this increase, the
Village has taken a proactive approach to supporting development and the
growth of the community through various administrative and operational
functions. Some of these functions include, but are not limited to: an update of
the Official Community Plan, evaluation of current zoning and Bylaws, with
planned Amendments to better reflect the current period of change, and
enhancements to internal operations and administration.
To this end, our centre of gravity is institutional credibility. In order to boost this, the stabilization and
enhancement of staffing capacity and capability, to serve Council and the community remains at the
forefront. Our intent remains on providing exceptional and responsive service to set the conditions for
residents and businesses alike to grow and flourish with as minimal as possible interference.
Looking towards the horizon, the Village has begun to forecast and plan for both the near and mid‐
term future. As such, studies shall be conducted that will evaluate a systematic overview of our critical
infrastructure, the organizational structure of Village staff, and currently a boundary expansion study is
underway to explore future options of VGDR and its relationship to the Village.
Additionally, other important files to note include: a potential future airport expansion, geothermal
heat, potential major developments to include commercial and residential, Kinder Morgan’s multi‐
billion dollar Transmountain Pipeline expansion project, and many others. The very successful
Valemount Community Forest continues to grow and expand to serve the community; likewise
VARDA’s exciting expansion of the bike park will also be an outstanding addition.
The Village is here to serve, and staff is grateful to be able to provide timely and effective service to the
community. As the previous2016 interim CAO and current Subdivision Approving Officer, Gord
Simmons likes to say, “We are here to make dreams come true within the parameters of legislation.”
2017 and beyond will provide numerous opportunities and challenges and we are ready.
Adam Davey Chief Administrative Officer
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Village of Valemount
2016 Annual Report and Financial Report
2016 Organizational Chart
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Village of Valemount
2016 Annual Report and Financial Report
Current Departmental Organizations
Chief Administrative Officer – Adam Davey
The Chief Administrative Officer is responsible for providing leadership to and oversight of all
Village operations, implementing the strategic vision established by Council, establishing
relationships with other levels of government and other corporate bodies, and providing
guidance and recommendations to Council to most effectively serve the Village.
Approving Officer – Gord Simmons
The Approving Officer generally has a separate jurisdictions of authority for approving
subdivision plans.
Corporate Services Clerk – Carleena Shepherd
The Corporate Services Clerk is responsible for corporate services functions within the Village,
and manages special projects and initiatives, as required.
Director of Finance – Lori McNee
The Director of Finance is responsible for control and supervision over all financial affairs of
the municipality, preparation of budgets, provision of financial advice, oversight of insurance
and contracts, and administration of the taxation cycle.
Public Works Superintendent – Trevor Pelletier
The Public Works Superintendent is responsible to plan, direct, manage and oversee the
activities and operations of the Public Works Department, to administer the budget, staff and
physical facilities of the Public Works Department, and to coordinate assigned activities with
other Municipal departments and outside agencies.
Economic Development Officer – Silvio Gislimberti
The Economic Development Officer acts as the municipality’s primary economic development
contact and implements economic initiatives of the municipality. The Economic Development
Officer’s role includes work at a strategic, operational and implementation level such as
seeking funds, developing partnerships, creating and implementing plans, and managing
projects.
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Building Inspector & Bylaw Officer – Dean Schneider
The Building Inspector is responsible for inspection and regulatory work involving inspecting
and checking buildings and on‐site requirements for compliance to the design, materials,
workmanship and safety devises with relevant bylaws, regulations and codes.
Animal Control Bylaw Officer – Chris Dolbec
Animal control officers are responsible for capturing and impounding dangerous or stray
animals, investigating cases of animal cruelty, enforcing licensing laws, providing expert
testimony in court cases, rescuing trapped animals, writing incident reports, and providing
humane care to animals under their supervision.
Back row: (l to r) Dave McRae, Rob Bustin, Megan Vicente, Dean Schnieder, Melanie Hystad
Adam Davey
Middle row: (l to r) Suzanne Bloodoff, Sandy Janum, Lori McNee, Carleena Shepherd, Silvio
Gislimberti
Front row: (l to r) Jennifer Robinson, Dan Schnell, Krista Etty, Trevor Pelletier
Missing: Chris Dolbec, Duane Smith
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Village of Valemount
2016 Annual Report and Financial Report
STATISTICAL
INFORMATION
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Village of Valemount
2016 Annual Report and Financial Report
Public Input, Declarations of Disqualification, & Permissive Tax Exemptions
Public Input
Notice of an opportunity to provide public comment on the Annual Report was given through
advertising, and opportunity for comment provided in the two weeks prior to an overview
presentation of the Annual Report at a regular Council meeting held June 27, 2017
Declarations of Disqualification
Declarations of Disqualification Made Under Section 110 of the Community Charter.
NONE
Permissive Tax Exemptions
Permissive Tax Exemptions are granted at Council’s discretion upon written application prior to the adoption of the Permissive Tax Bylaw. For 2014, Village Council adopted the Tax Exempt Property Bylaw No. 704, 2013 which provided permissive tax exemptions for the following properties. Also shown is the amount of property taxes that would have been imposed on the properties in 2014 year if the properties were not Tax Exempt. Organization Value of Exempt Taxes VARDA $2,743.83
Valemount Curling Rink $5,848.21
Valemount Lions Club $820.36
Royal Canadian Legion $3,155.90
Valemount Senior’s (Golden Year’s) $858.48
Valemount Senior’s (Golden Year’s) $4,802.59
Valemount Senior’s (Prov Rental Hsing) $5,252.83
Valemount Senior’s (Prov Rental Hsing) $4,949.07
United Church of Canada $1,145.80
Roman Catholic Bishop $653.07
Valemount New Life Centre $1,384.34
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Village of Valemount
2016 Annual Report and Financial Report
Statistics
In late spring of 2012, the results of the 2011 census were released, showing the overview below.
2016 Valemount Animal License Statistics
Total Animal Licenses issued 106
2016 Valemount Business License Statistics
New Business 23
Home Based Businesses 14
Standard Businesses 147
Short Term Vacation Rentals 3
Non Profit 3
Street Vendor 3
Total 170
2016 Building Permits
Decks $64,800
Additions $108,000
New Construction $1,234,000
Woodstove Inspections $168,800
151,000 $151,000
Roofs $67,000
Other Renovations $90,000
Total $1,882,800
2011 Census Data Summary for Valemount, BC
Population and dwelling counts Valemount British Columbia
Population in 2011 1,020 4,400,057
Population in 2006 1,018 4,113,487
2006 to 2011 population change (%) 0.2 7
Total private dwellings 592 1,945,365
Private dwellings occupied by usual 474 1,764,637
Population density per square kilometre 197.4 4.8
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Village of Valemount
2016 Annual Report and Financial Report
FINANCIAL
INFORMATION
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