Appendix 5: Public Consultation

8/4/2019 Appendix 5: Public Consultation

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APPENDIX5:

PUBLIC CONSULTATION


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Rocky View County/City of Airdrie

Annexation

Communication/Consultation Plan 2010-11


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1. Introduction

The City of Airdrie (CoA) has experienced significant population growth and associated development since the most recent

annexation in 2003 (2873 acres of land annexed). As previous growth projections have been far exceeded by rapid population

growth, the CoA has submitted an annexation application to provide for the continued long-term planning and growth needs of the

municipality.

It should be noted that the CoA has established policies that support the provision of maintaining at least a thirty year land supply

within its corporate boundaries.

Rocky View County has also established a policy environment focusing on growth within the County and identifies areas for growth.

Working in concert with Rocky View County (RVC) and recognizing the Alberta Land Use Framework and work by the CalgaryRegional Partnership, the CoA and RVC have worked together collaboratively to identify areas enabling both jurisdictions to

proactively plan for their future long-term growth needs.

The CoA and RVC are initiating a communications and consultation strategy to ensure residents and stakeholders affected by the

annexation understand the process and address all questions residents have.

2. Objectives

Create awareness by communicating annexation information to stakeholders and residents of the new growth boundary and

annexation process.Eliminate misperceptions.

To address any questions and concerns from affected stakeholders.

To garner the support from stakeholders for the annexation.

Receive feedback (questions/concerns) from RVC landowners.

Create two-way communication mechanisms between RVC, CoA and affected residents


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3. GoalThe goal of the Growth Boundary Communication Plan is to create awareness and garner support from stakeholders during the

annexation between Rocky View County and City of Airdrie.

4. Audience

Internal

City of Airdrie (CoA) and Rocky View County (RVC) Staff

Rocky View County Council and City of Airdrie Council

City and County committees

External

General County of Rocky View and Airdrie residentsRocky View County residents/businesses directly affected by the annexation

Farmers, country residential, industrial

Government of Alberta stakeholders

Calgary, RVC and CoA media

5. Primary Action/Strategies

1. Item: Web Site (www.airdrierockyannex.ca/com)Aim: To have centralized location of all the information for the target audience to view all the information about the growth

boundary and how it will affect them. Advertise dates of open houses and generate participation in the public meetings.

Action:

Purchase URL

Determine web pages for site and send request to CoA IT department to create site.

Send web content (text/graphic requests) to RVC and CoA communications department to review and populate the web site.


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A feedback mechanism should be included.City and county brands included in colour scheme

Web Site navigation plan follows.

2. CoA and RVC Web Sites (airdrie.ca/twitter, rockyview.ca/twitter)

Aim: Educate visitors to CoA and RVC web sites of annexation.

Action: Send regular updates to RVC and CoA communications to populate airdrie.ca and rockyview.ca.

3. Item: Two Letters to Affected Landowners

Aim: To communicate the annexation process, address questions and concerns of affected landowners.

Action:

o Letter 1: (purpose is to provide initial information) Initial Frequently Asked Questions Annexation Process Chart and Description Annexation Boundary Map Invitation to Community Cafs Comment/Feedback Form with question on preferred method of communication.

o Letter 2: (purpose is to provide follow-up on feedback received) Follow-up letter/email/fax Revised Frequently Asked Questions

Invitation to Open House

5. Item:eNewsletters (Airdrie@work and AirdrieToday)

Aim: Reach the general Airdrie audiences (residents and businesses); creating awareness; advertising open houses; and driving

people to the web section.

Action: Write stories, submit to CoA Communications and Economic Development Department monthly.

6. Item: Media Relations (Calgary, RVC and Airdrie)


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Aim: Work with media to get free, timely and positive coverage/publicity of project/plan.

Action: Draft three press releases in conjunction with RVC and CoA communications, one in early August to launch the process,

one in October to update project status, and a final one in February to announce outcomes. Send releases via CoA medialist

service. As well, a photo op will be held for media in February with a hand shaking between the Mayor and Reeve as closureto the process.

Release would be sent to local media outlets to generate coverage as well as posted on CoA and RVC web sites/Twitter page.

7. Item: Advertising

Aim: To generate awareness of growth boundary web site section and public meetings/open houses.

Action: Work with communications to develop a series of 2 advertisements. One to target specific dates/publications regarding

the launch and Community Cafes and another to address the Open house and outcomes of the process .

8. Item: Vantage Point

Aim: To connect with an already established captive audience, generating more participation in the public process.

Action: Write and submit article.

9. Item: One Sheets

Aim: Briefly give the facts and answer FAQs creating greater awareness of annexation information. This should also include a

prepared statement regarding the annexation to be provided in any responses to feedback (verbally or written) which will

accompany any specific response to specific questions.

Action: Two one sheets will be created throughout the process and distributed at the front counter of CoA and RVC facilities.

Content will be created and submitted to CoA and RVC communications, designed and printed. Content will include: FAQs;annexation process chart and description; annexation boundary map; and events schedule.

10. Item: CoA Twitter

Aim: Reach an established group of interested citizens/stakeholders to drive residents to

the web site, create awareness of open houses and feedback.

Action: Send news to communications for Twitter page.


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11. Item: Radio

Aim: Reach a different audience through the Reeve and Mayors weekly radio

shows, on The Range 106.1 FM.Action: Send news to communications for Twitter page.

12. Item: Public Engagement (face-to-face)

Aim: Directly connect and consult with affected residents to address questions and concerns. A series of five engagement

sessions will take place between September and December of 2010. These five sessions will be broken into four Community

Cafes; one for each of the three surrounding country residential developments and one for the farm land owners and an Open

House for everyone to provide outcomes of the process. Ideally these cafes will be held in or as close to their communities as

possible. Possibly, the cafes could be videotaped and posted to the website for those who did not attend to view.

Action: Choose and book venues. Work with communications to develop advertisements,

create FAQ sheets, displays and brief planning staff on FAQs.


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Consultation with affected landowners,

residents, and stakeholders occurs

at various stages throughout thenegotiation process.

For further detail on the Public

Consultation Process, see Chart 2.

Airdrie submits

an Annexation

Application, based on

the agreement, to the

MGB

The two municipalities

reach an agreement

Airdrie and Rocky

View negotiate in

good faith

Airdrie submits a

Notice of Intent

to Annex to Rocky

View County and

to the Municipal

Government Board

(MGB)

The MGB will review the annexation

application and negotiation report, then

advertise the Annexation to affectedlandowners, stakeholders, and the public

Chart 1: Overview of the

Annexation Process in Alberta

CURREN

TSTAGE


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The Team reaches

some initial

agreements and

seeks public input

Airdrie and

Rocky View begin

negotiations

The Team reviews

public input

and continues

negotiations

Information

is provided

to the public.

Input, issues,

and concerns

are sought

from affected

residents and

stakeholders.

Public Consultation

Program is

developed

Chart 2: Overview of Airdrie and Rocky View

Annexation Negotiation and

Public Consultation Processes

An Annexation Team

is formed, consisting

of elected ofcials

and administration

from both

municipalities


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WELCOME


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INTENTThe City of Airdrie and Rocky View County

are currently in Annexation Negotiations,

and would like to share our findings andhear about your views on the proposed


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What is Annexation?

Annexation involves changing the official borderof the City of Airdrie to accomodate its long term

growth.

This means if and when annexation is approved by

the Province of Alberta, areas that are identifiedfor annexation would change jurisdictions from


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Annexation

Negotiation CommitteeThe Annexation Negotiation Committee consistsof elected and administrative members of boththe City and the County. The Committee beganannexation negotiations this summer with thegoal of achieving agreement by the end of the

year.


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Annexation

Negotiation Committee

The Annexation Negotiation Committee consistsof elected and administrative members of boththe City and the County. The team began annexa-tion negotiations this summer with the goal ofachieving agreement by the end of 2010.

If agreement is reached, we anticipate the Prov-


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Annexation

Negotiation Team

The Annexation Negotiation team consists ofelected and administrative members of both theCity and the County. The team began annexationnegotiations this summer with the goal of achiev-ing agreement by the end of 2010.

If agreement is reached, we anticipate the Prov-


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Annexation Principles

1. BOUNDARY

The City and the County agree with the proposed

boundary as initially presented by Airdrie. Upon carefulreview, the Committee has decided to make no furtheradditions to the Proposed Annexation Area at this time.It should be noted, however, that the boundary is ulti-

mately dependant on the decision of the Province ofAlberta


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4. IDP PROCESS

The committee agreed that a new Intermunicipal Devel-opment Plan process would begin soon after the annex-ation order is delivered by the Municipal GovernmentBoard. A key policy item within the future IDP between

the City of Airdrie and Rocky View County will addresstransition between diverse land uses.


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3. TAXATION

The City of Airdrie and Rocky View County have agreedin principle that taxation rates for farm properties willremain at Rocky View rates for 30 years after the effec-tive annexation date, and that taxation rates for allother properties will remain at Rocky View levels for 20years after the effective annexation date. Tax rates will


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2. COMPENSATION

The committee discussed appropriate types of compen-

sation and determined that it would be fair and reason-able for Airdrie to compensate Rocky View for any sig-nificant capital investments made in the annexationarea over the past several years. Specific costs are still

being researched.


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FEEDBACK

We are eager to find out about your

views on Annexation. Please take a few minutes

and fill out our Feedback form.

Thank You


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Issues Identified DuringSeptember Public Information

Sessions

1. Overall Advantages:

a. City Services.b. Increased property value.

c. Long term growth opportunity.d. Airdrie Air Park development.

2. Overall Concerns:

a. City Services.

b. Tax Increases.c Land Use and transition for acreages


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AIRDRIE ANNEXATION: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

The City and County have compiled a list of FAQ for your reference. This is not a complete list, but a starting point in

our information sharing process. As we gather more questions and comments from yourself and other members of the

public we will be updating this list accordingly.

What is annexation?

Annexation is a change in jurisdiction from one municipality to another. It is not a change in ownership and does not

necessarily facilitate immediate development.

What does it mean to be annexed?

Landowners that own land that is annexed by the City of Airdrie from Rocky View County will transition from being

County taxpayers and residents, to City taxpayers and residents. It should be noted that as part of the annexation

negotiation process, special provisions are being discussed to help transition affected landowners into the City.

When does annexation become effective?

The City of Airdrie is currently in negotiations with Rocky View County to finalize the lands to be included in the

proposed Annexation and to determine the terms of annexation. Some of these terms relate to taxation, assessment,

service delivery and other issues relating to the transition of properties from one jurisdiction to another. At this stage,

the municipalities do not have a firm date on when the negotiation process will conclude. When the negotiations are

complete, an annexation application will be submitted to the Provinces Municipal Government Board for consideration.

Based on a review of recent Municipal Government Board decisions, the process for MGB decision can take anywhere

from 6 to 18 months to complete. The City of Airdrie estimates that if annexation proceeds as planned, the effective

date of annexation would be in late 2011 to early 2012.What is the proposed new boundary for The City of Airdrie? Am I included in annexation?

The proposed annexation boundary, as of August 2010, represents the lands that are currently being discussed as part

of the annexation negotiation process between the City of Airdrie and Rocky View County. The boundary contains land

to the west, north, and east of Airdrie's current City limits. It should be noted that some of the lands may change as part

of the negotiation process. Additionally, the Provinces Municipal Government Board makes all final decisions on

annexation boundaries and can revise the boundary as part of their final decision on Annexation.

How much land is being annexed? How many people are included?

There are approximately 4468 hectares (11,040 acres) in the proposed annexation area boundary as of August, 2010.

Revisions to the boundary and affected Rocky View County residents may occur as part of the Annexation negotiation

and MGB review processes


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bylaws and resolutions, which would include a full public planning process as well as a public hearing. Properties will

likely be re-designated once in the city, to City of Airdrie Land Use Bylaw districts. For example, land under an

agricultural land use district in the County would be re-designated to Urban Reserve in the City, which allows the

present agricultural use to continue.

I own a business in the proposed annexation boundary. Will I need a City of Airdrie business license? All businesses operating in The City of Airdrie will need a business license to operate. For more information on Business

Licenses in the City of Airdrie please refer to http://www.airdrie.ca/airdrienow/business_licensing.cfm or contact

Colleen Kinley at the Business Licensing Department at (403) 948-8837.

Will I get The City of Airdrie sewer and water after annexation?

All urban development in The City of Airdrie must be serviced with water and sewer. Servicing extensions (piped water,

sanitary and storm sewers) are planned to be installed in conjunction with the development of land for urban residential

and commercial land uses. It may take a number of years for annexed lands to be developed to urban densities. Existing

rural services would continue until the annexed lands are developed for urban land uses, or when these services becomeavailable in the immediate area.

How will the increase in traffic be handled in and around the annexation areas?

Annexation primarily brings undeveloped lands into the city for urban growth over the long term. As such, traffic and

transportation impacts of development will occur over time as these areas are planned and eventually developed. The

planning processes for these areas will include input from the County and affected landowners.

How will annexation affect the condition of roads being annexed?

The City is responsible to maintain roads within the annexation area upon the effective date of annexation to at least

the standard that was previously in place.

What are the benefits of annexation to landowners whose land is brought into Airdrie?

The benefits to landowners within an annexation area vary from the short term to the longer term. There are immediate

changes including City Police Service for the annexed areas, and priority service for Fire and EMS. In longer terms, City

water and sewer services and urban development potential can be expected.

How will the natural environment be protected after annexation?

Annexation is about changing municipal jurisdictions. It is not about immediate development, although planning for

development will occur in some areas soon after annexation. Until planning and subdivision occur, lands remain in theirpresent natural state or the existing rural land uses continue. The City of Airdrie is committed to protecting natural and

environmentally significant areas as part of our planning processes. Environmental and Municipal Reserve is often used
http://www.airdrie.ca/airdrienow/business_licensing.cfmhttp://www.airdrie.ca/airdrienow/business_licensing.cfm


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AIRDRIE ANNEXATION: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

The City and County have compiled a list of FAQ for your reference. This is the second version that was developed at

the conclusion of the Annexation Negotiation Process between the City of Airdrie and Rocky View County. It is not a

complete list, but a starting point in our information sharing process. As we gather more questions and comments from

yourself and other members of the public we will be updating this list accordingly.

What is annexation?

Annexation is a change in jurisdiction from one municipality to another. It is not a change in ownership and does not

necessarily facilitate immediate development.

What does it mean to be annexed?

Landowners that own land that is annexed by the City of Airdrie from Rocky View County will transition from being

County taxpayers and residents, to City taxpayers and residents.

When does annexation become effective?

The City of Airdrie and Rocky View County has requested an effective date of December 31, 201, however, the Municipal

Government Board has the authority to change this date. Based on a review of recent Municipal Government Board

decisions, the process for MGB decision can take anywhere from 6 to 18 months to complete at which time both

Municipalities will be notified of the effective date of annexation in a Board Order.

What is the proposed new boundary for The City of Airdrie? Am I included in annexation?

The proposed annexation boundary has remained the same since August 2010 and contains land to the west, north, and

east of Airdrie's current City limits. It should be noted that the Provinces Municipal Government Board makes all final

decisions on annexation boundaries and can revise the boundary as part of their final decision on Annexation. Please

refer to http://www.airdrie.ca/annexation/maps.cfm

How much land is being annexed? How many people are included?

The proposed annexation boundary is approximately 5115 hectares (12,640 acres) in area and includes 714 residents

and 230 dwelling units.

Can additional land still be considered for annexation?

All final decisions on annexation boundaries and any other issues relating to this annexation process will be determined

by the Province.

Why does The City of Airdrie annex land?
http://www.airdrie.ca/annexation/maps.cfmhttp://www.airdrie.ca/annexation/maps.cfm


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Upon annexation becoming effective the City will work in coordination with property owners to ensure municipal

service connections are addressed when they become available in the area. However, the City could move toward

requiring municipal connections for water/sewer if there were a legitimate public safety concern (eg. insufficient fire

flow in a previously existing communal system or an environmental issue related to failing septic disposal).

How will the increase in traffic be handled in and around the annexation areas?

Annexation primarily brings undeveloped lands into the city for urban growth over the long term. As such, traffic and

transportation impacts of development will occur over time as these areas are planned and eventually developed. The

planning processes for these areas will include input from the County and affected landowners.

How will annexation affect the condition of roads being annexed?

The City is responsible to maintain roads within the annexation area upon the effective date of annexation to at least

the standard that was previously in place. It should be noted that segments of provincial highways within the proposed

annexation area (such as Hwy 567) that are currently managed by the Province will be transferred to the City of Airdrie.

This should further enable the City to respond to citizen concerns regarding these roads in a more timely and effective

manner.

How will the natural environment be protected after annexation?

Annexation is about changing municipal jurisdictions. It is not about immediate development, although planning for

development will occur in some areas soon after annexation. Until planning and subdivision occur, lands remain in their

present natural state or the existing rural land uses continue. The City of Airdrie is committed to protecting natural and

environmentally significant areas as part of our planning processes. The City of Airdries Ecological Inventory

Expansion and Environmental Best Practice Report, 2010 identifies significant environmental feature in the

proposed annexation area. In is the intent of the City to ensure that these features are adequately protected as part of

any future land use and development planning effort.

Will the City pick up my garbage?

Residents in the annexation territory will continue to dispose of their garbage in the same fashion as if they have in

Rocky View County. City garbage pickup will be offered once comprehensive development occurs.How will assessment / taxes be handled within the annexation territory?

The intent of both the City and County through the annexation negotiation process was to minimize the impacts on

affected land owners. To this end, the Annexation Negotiation Committee has proposed to adopt Rocky View County


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The Rocky View County Bylaws and policies currently under effect for the proposed annexation area will either be

used as is or comparable regulations will be adopted by the City. Additionally, the scope of municipal enforcement

varies between the City and County based on each bylaw and the context within which it is applied. Currently the City

and County are determining the best approach to transitioning bylaws and enforcement obligations. As decisions are

made on such matters information will be made available to the public.

What is the financial impact of the proposed annexation on the City and County?

The Financial Impact Analysis of the Proposed Annexation was developed by County and City staff to determine the

current and future financial impacts of annexation on both municipalities. The analysis concludes that the

annexation will result in an annual operating loss to both municipalities. However, this cost was deemed to be

nominal in nature and the Intermunicipal Annexation Negotiating Committee agreed that this cost should be viewed

as an investment in the future that helps ensure greater development certainty for both municipalities.


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Feedback from September, 2010 Open Houses

INTENT

This memo will briefly summarize the feedback provided by the public on the

proposed City of Airdrie Annexation as of September 22, 2010. Results will be

separated by the type and mode of feedback provided.

CONVENTIONAL MAIL

What we have done.

Letters informing affected and adjacent land owners about the annexation processwere sent out at the end of August, 2010. They included process flow charts,

frequently asked questions, the August copy of the Annexation Map, a feedback

questionnaire and an invitation to the open house.

What we have received.To date we have had limited letters inquiring about the annexation process.

PHONE

What we have done.

City and County staff have made contact information available both in the letter mailout, website and newspaper articles. There has been no unsolicited calling of

residents on annexation.

Wh h i d


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E-MAIL

What we have done.City and County staff have made contact information available both in the letter mailout, website and newspaper articles. There have been no unsolicited mass emails

sent out on annexation to date.

What we have received.

A significant portion of attendees at the two open houses provided their email as a

preferred method of communication. This information has been compiled and can

be found in Appendix B. Both municipalities have received 10-15 direct emails onannexation. Please see Appendix C for examples of some of the emails received.

Listed below are key issues that were brought forth:

1. Additional land: A few individuals have requested that their lands beincluded in the annexation area.

2. Servicing: Some acreage residents enquired about city services beingextended to their property.

OPEN HOUSES

What we have done.

Two open houses were held on the 9th and 15th of September. The sign in sheets

indicate 228 individual attended both open houses. Taking into account those whodidnt sign in, the total attendance number is approximately 250. City and County

staff and elected representatives fielded questions from attendees. In addition to the

display boards, staff also provided copies of FAQs and feedback forms to attendees.

What we have received


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FEED BACK FORMS

What we have done.

Feedback forms were provided at Open Houses, on the www.airdrieannex.cawebsite and at the municipal counters.

What we have received.

Of the approximately 250 attendees, 39 filled out feedback forms and submitted

them directly, via fax or through the website. A detailed summary of the feedback

can be found in Appendix A. Listed below are key issues that were brought forth:

1. Overall Advantages:a. City Servicesb. Increased property valuec. Long term growth opportunityd. Airdrie Air Park development

2. Overall Concerns:a. City Servicesb. Tax Increasesc. Zoning of land adjacent to acreagesd. Decreased property value

3. Additional Issues:a. Rural Lifestyle in the City (both acreage and farmers)b. Loss of Farmlandc. Annexation along quarter section lines poses problems for farmersd. Development near creeks and other natural featurese. Priority given to snow removal in rural areas by the Cityf. Go further west and take advantage of proximity to mountainsg Preserve viewscapes from higher lands on both east and west
http://www.airdrieannex.ca/http://www.airdrieannex.ca/


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NEXT PHASE OF CONSULTATION

AudienceThe largest number of concerns expressed in the engagement process to date can beattributed to acreage owners. To address issues specific to them, it is recommended

that separate sessions be held with each acreage community.

Format

Since many of the issues being discussed relate to land use and interfacing, their

suggestions and concerns may be best captured in a Community Cafe format.

Location

There are spaces available in close proximity to each community to host a more

focused discussion. Alternatively Genesis Place has small conference rooms that are

ideal for this purpose.

Time

Comments from staff and residents suggest that a weekend time might be

advantageous for longer engagement sessions. Day time sessions can also be

pursued on days with limited overlap with other civic events.

Dates

Due to current municipal elections it is recommended that sessions be held betweenOctober 30 and November 14.


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DECEMBER 10, 2010 - FOCUSED CONSULTATION SESSIONS UPDATE

INTENT

This memo will provide a brief summary of focused consultation sessions that were held inlate October and early November with the acreage communities in the Proposed Annexation

Area.

BUFFALO RUB AND SURROUNDING AREA

Background

A focused consultation session was held at Golden Rodd Hall on October 20th, 2010 with the

residents of the Buffalo Rub community and surrounding area. The session was attended by

approximately 15 individuals. City and County staff briefly presented information about the

annexation process with the majority of the session focused on identifying issues and

answering questions.

Feedback

The issues and questions identified by the attendees include:

- Transportation and Infrastructureo Concerns were expressed over noise and safety impacts of truck traffic along

RR. 13.

o Concerns were expressed over safety impacts associated with the suddenchange in speed limit when Veterans Blvd. transitions into Hwy 567(60

km/h to 100 km/h) Information requested on the possibility of the speed

limit changing subsequent to annexation.o Information was requested on process and triggers attached to connecting

Ci S i


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o Information was requested on process the different regulations governing

Accessory Buildings between the City and the County?

o Information was requested on to the process and notifications associatedwith future development.o Information was requested on changes in approach and scope of municipal

enforcement.

Next Steps

City and County staff will provide a letter response addressing the issues and concerns and

information requests identified at the session.

YANKEE VALLEY ESTATES AND SURROUNDING AREA

Background

A focused consultation session was held at Airdrie Airpark Clubhouse on October 27 th with

the residents of the Yankee Valley Estates and surrounding area. The session was attended

by approximately 45 individuals. City and County staff briefly presented information about

the annexation process with the majority of the session focused on identifying issues and

answering questions.

Feedback

The issues and questions identified by the attendees include:

- Annexation Process:o Information was requested on the reasons behind the current annexation

process and the reasons for changes in the boundary and conditions of

annexation.

o Information was requested on the financial impacts of annexation onacreage owners in the short medium and long term.


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o Attendees suggested that Yankee Valley Estates should be looked at

differently thatits Surrounding Area.

o Concerns were expressed over adjacent land uses impacting propertyvalueso Concerns were expressed over the process used when Yankee Valley Estates

was developed and how adjacent property owners concerns were not taken

into account.

o Concerns were expressed over the land use consultation processes needingto be more receptive to resident concerns

o One individual stated that a realtor informed him at the time of purchasethat the City wont expand east.

o Attendees identified opportunities for current residents to help shape futuredevelopment.

Next Steps

- City and County staff will provide a letter response addressing the issues andconcerns and information requests identified at the session.

HAMILTON GREENS, CROXFORD ESTATES AND SURROUDING AREA

Background

A focused consultation session was held at Genesis Place on November 3rd with the

residents of Hamilton Greens, Croxford Estates and surrounding area. The session was

attended by approximately 25 individuals. City and County staff briefly presented

information about the annexation process with the majority of the session focused on

identifying issues and answering questions. The participants were asked to answer threequestions as part of this process:

1 What have we learnt from the past?


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o Staff turnover made it exceedingly difficult to have a single point of contact.o Communication was lacking from Rocky View County.

- Land Use and Developmento Property values were negatively affected by the non-residential

development to the south.

o False expectations were created through the Area Structure Planning andother consultation processes that preceded development.

o Promises were not met as it relates to building heights, setbacks andintensity of use adjacent to acreage area.

2. What are some issues and questions relating to the current process?- Annexation Process:

o Request for a reduction in taxes until city services become available.o Concern over rezoning of one individual lot within acreage community

forcing increased taxation on adjacent properties.

o Information requested about the cost comparison of being taxed at a Cityrate versus County rate.

o Information requested about the short term and long term tax implicationsof the annexation.

o Information requested on a city initiated rezoning of land and its impacts onthe property taxes in the proposed annexation area.

o Concern over uncertainty attached to tax pegged to Rocky View Countyrates.

o Information requested as to whether the lower tax rate would apply if Citytax rates were lower than County?

o Information requested on the impact of annexation on property values in the


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o Information was requested on changes in approach and scope of municipal

enforcement.

o Information was requested on how animals will be regulated in the City ofAirdrie. In particular dogs and livestock.- Land Use and Development

o Information was requested bout the timing and nature of land use planningin the Annexation Area.

o Information was requested about the current and future zoning of lands tothe east, west and north of the community and the timing of future

development in the area.

o Concerns were expressed over further industrial development surroundingthe acreage developments.

o Concerns were expressed over unsustainable land consumption for futuredevelopment.

o Information was requested about whether a full length burm would bedeveloped along the length of the industrial development to south in

advance of any building construction, allowing the trees and vegetation to

being to grow.

o Information was requested on current and future plans for upgrading RR291.

o Information was requested on incentives provided by the City to increasethe pace of commercial and industrial development.

o Concerns were expressed over the new airport proposal to the east.o Concerns were expressed over possible street lights internal to the acreage

communities.


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o Uses should transition from high intensity non-residential to low intensity

non-residential to high density residential to low density residential.

o

Kings Heights should be used as a model for transitioning betweenindustrial and residential.

o Range Road 291 should not be allowed to become a 6 lane highway.o Concerns over the location of future power lines should be addressed.o If another building similar to Belron is allowed to be developed by the City

there will be intervention at the MGB by owners in this area.

- Communicationo People should be dealt with on a personal level.o Direct letters to affected property owners is preferred over legal notice in

the City paper.

o There should be increased transparency in the land use planning anddevelopment review process.

o Each development should be required to directly consult with affected landowners.

o Basic information should be provided to affected property owners themoment the development permit has been submitted for staff review.

Next Steps

City and County staff will provide a letter response addressing the issues and concerns and

information requests identified at the session.


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Press Release

City of Airdrie Annexation ofLands from Rocky View County

The City of Airdrie and Rocky View County are currently in the early stages ofAnnexation negotiations. Both municipalities will be jointly hosting two publicinformation sessions on September 9th and 15th between 5-8 P.M. The firstsession will be held at the Town and Country Center in Airdrie. The subsequentsession will be held at the Balzac Community Hall. The sessions are open to thepublic. City and County staff as well as members of the Annexation NegotiationTeam will be present. The sessions will provide information about the currentstatus of negotiations. Interested individuals are encouraged to attend one of thetwo sessions. More information about the Annexation process can be found atwww.airdrieannex.ca.
http://www.airdrieannex.ca/http://www.airdrieannex.ca/http://www.airdrieannex.ca/


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Press Release

City of Airdrie Annexation ofLands from Rocky View County

The City of Airdrie and Rocky View County have been in Annexation negotiationsover the past few months. Both municipalities jointly hosted two publicinformation sessions on September 9th and 15th which were attended by over 250people. Both municipalities would like to thank all those who attended and anywho filled out a feedback form. Based on this feedback the City of Airdrie andRocky View County will be holding community specific engagement sessions inthe following months. Negotiations are ongoing and as more informationbecomes available we will be updating www.airdrieannex.ca.
http://www.airdrieannex.ca/http://www.airdrieannex.ca/http://www.airdrieannex.ca/


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PROPOSEDAIRDRIEANNEXATIONCity of Airdrie and Rocky View CountyCouncil Presentations

May 2011


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NEGOTIATION COMMITTEE

Elected Members: Greg Boehlke

Earl Solberg

Paul McLean

[Hopeton Louden]

Staff Members: Rob Coon, CAO

Melissa Ayers, Planner

[Amy Zaluski, Planner]

Elected Members: Mayor Peter Brown

[Mayor Linda Bruce]

Fred Burley

Glenda Alexander

Staff Members: Paul Schultz, CAO

Jamie Dugdale,

Planning Team Leader Naren Garg, Senior

Planner

Rocky View County City of Airdrie

Mediator:Andrew Felton


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OVERVIEW

Principles:

Justification:

Supporting

Studies:

Non-contested annexation

Enhanced spirit of inter-municipal

cooperation

Mutual respect for long-term growth

needs

County Growth Management Strategy

City Comprehensive Growth Strategy

Joint Financial Impact Analysis

City of Airdrie Ecological Inventory

City of Airdrie Servicing Study


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ROCKYVIEW COUNTY

GROWTH MANAGEMENT STRATEGY


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CITY OFAIRDRIE

COMPREHENSIVE GROWTH STRATEGY


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FINANCIAL IMPACTANALYSIS

Annual operating losses for both municipalities

0.5% of annual tax budget for County

0.5% increase in tax budget for City

Nominal impact

No increase in capital costs for County

1% increase in annual debt for the City

23% reduction in uncommitted reserves for City

Justification: An investment in the future that

helps to ensure greater development certainty forboth municipalities


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NEGOTIATION PROCESS

Notice of Intent

Negotiating Committeeidentified

Negotiating Committee

met 10 times Broad principles agreed

to by end of July 2010

Presented to public inSeptember 2010

Details and publicconcerns addressedbetween October 2010and April 2011

February 2010

March and April 2010

June 2010 to April

2011


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PUBLIC CONSULTATION

Initial open houses

Landowner letters

Annexation website

Public open houses

Detailed community

consultations

Feedback to communities Public Hearings

June 2009

June 2010 to April

2011

www.airdrieannex.ca

September 2010

November 2010

January 2011May 2nd and May 10th


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AREAS OFAGREEMENT

Boundary

Proposed effective date

Taxation

Services Planning Transition

Municipally Owned Lands

Reimbursement

Infrastructure Agreements


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PROPOSEDANNEXATIONAREABOUNDARY

Population: 714

Dwelling units: 213

Roadways: 52.8 kms

Area: 12,640 acres


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EFFECTIVE DATE & TAXATION

Effective Date: Proposed to be December 31, 2011

Education Taxes:

Education taxes paid to Province via under levy for RockyView County and over levy for Airdrie to correct for lag in

Provincial requisition Under/over levies apply for one year if effective date of

December 31st; 2 years for all other dates

Tax Rates: Tax rates for agricultural uses pegged to Rocky View

County rates for 30 years Tax rates for all other uses pegged to Rocky View County

rates for 20 years

Tax peg removed if land is re-zoned or if a connection toCity water or sewer services are made


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SERVICES

Agricultural Services

All agriculture services will be governed by the City

of Airdrie

Municipal Services

Airdrie will not take over existing private systems

Land use redesignation, subdivision or development

permits may trigger a connection to City water or

sewer

Airdrie will determine when to extend services Costs of connections will be borne by proponents of

growth

Garbage pickup will not be extended until

comprehensive development occurs


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PLANNING TRANSITION

Inter-municipal Development Plan updated whenannexation is complete

Any planning applications underway will be transferredto the City of Airdrie upon date of annexation

Existing approved uses grandfathered

Rocky View County Bylaws will be adopted orcomparable regulations will be integrated into CityBylaws.

New development or expansion of existing developmentwill require City approvals

Businesses will have to obtain a business license withthe City by January 30 or 90 days following the date ofannexation, whichever is longer

Home Based Businesses will be required to renewpermits with the City


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MUNICIPALASSETS: LAND, ROADS ETC.

Two (2) Municipal Reserve (MR) parcels in

annexation area will be transferred to Airdrie

Buffalo Rub Community Park

Yankee Valley Community Park

Existing Rocky View County public works shop inAirdrie will not be transferred

All roads including boundary roads will be

transferred to the City of Airdrie.

City will reimburse County for infrastructure

improvements within the annexation area since

2006 (see road improvement map)

Estimated cost: $1,634,000


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INFRASTRUCTURE UPGRADES SINCE 2006


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FUTURE ROAD PROJECTS

Range Road 13 Pavement upgrades from Big Hill Springs Road to Hwy

567 to occur in 2011

Cost of upgrade paid through debenture by the County thatwill be transferred to the City upon date of annexation

Estimated cost: $842,000 Range Road 292

Pavement upgrades from Hwy 566 to Yankee Valley Roaddelayed for 1 year

1 mile of upgrade within annexation area from Twp 270 to

Yankee Valley Road Joint maintenance contract for 2011: City to pay costs for 1

mile; County to pay costs for 3 miles

Joint contract for upgrade in 2012: City to pay costs for 1mile; County to pay costs for 3 miles


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NEXT STEPS

Council Approval

Legal agreement

Annexation application

Municipal GovernmentBoard Hearing

Board Order

May 2011

May 2011

May/June 2011

September 2011

2012

Appendix 5: Public Consultation

Documents

Transcript of Appendix 5: Public Consultation