NO AGENDA AGAIN?
WHAT DO WE PAY FOR THIS WEB SITE???
ON THE HOME PAGE YOU CAN CLICK ON
"COUNCIL SESSION HIGHLIGHTS"
THIS IS WHAT YOU GET FOR YOUR TAX DOLLARS
Friday, December 15, 2017
Monday, November 20, 2017
No Council Meeting This Week
Changes to the Municipal Government Act
Most of you will remember that LSARA has had the occasion to put forward a petition and a few other communications to the Municipal Government. The Act itself is law. It is how Municipalities must operate. It governs everything from how an election runs in a County, to identifying the duties of a Councillor or Elected Official. It also regulates how and when Council Meetings are to be advertised.Tuesday, November 14, 2017
County Ratepayer’s Association calls FOUL over FOIP bill
LSARA has been patiently waiting for our FOIP requests to be addressed. We have also been affording the new council of 2017 (some old some new) and Administration the opportunity to get in the swing of Council.
Saturday, November 4, 2017
WHO IS LSARA?
LSARA IS YOU AND ME!
PROUD RESIDENTS OF LAC STE. ANNE COUNTY WHO CARE WHAT IS HAPPENING TO OUR COUNTY!
LSARA is a condensed version of our registered society name "Lac Ste Anne and Communities Ratepayers Association". We are a dedicated group of volunteers that identified a need to present issues in the County of Lac Ste Anne as we understand them. We believe it is in all our best interests to ensure all Ratepayers and other potentially affected community members know the Hot Topic items, understand them and can effectively respond to them.
Thursday, November 2, 2017
Perleeese… tell me that we are not going down this road again – wasting more money!!
Perleeese… tell me that we are not going down this road again – wasting more money!!
By David Chawner Nov 2, 2017
The new council hadn’t even been sworn in, but they’ll have to sort out the mess, because some-one in the County Office thought that it would be a great idea to conduct an “experiment” and test the use of road grindings from Hwy 37 as an alternative road topping in the sub-divisions just as the forecast was for Fall/Winter weather – snow?? rain?? cold temperatures??… sound familiar for late October??
Friday, October 27, 2017
NEW LSAC REEVE AND DEPUTY REEVE APPOINTED
Since the LSAC Web Site still has not updated the new Councillors information, LSARA would like to welcome the new Council and Congratulations to the new "REEVE" (not mayor) Joe Blakeman and Deputy Reeve Nick Gelych.
Tuesday, October 17, 2017
LSARA Welcomes the New Council
LSARA Welcomes the New CounciL
The last four years have seen many changes in the County of Lac Ste Anne. Many of them have been changes the Ratepayers wanted in more consultation opportunities. Some of those issues were the New Administration Building, introduction of utility based Landfill fees, proposed Land Use Bylaw changes, RV proposed bylaws, loss of two Councillors with no by elections.Monday, October 16, 2017
TODAY IS THE DAY FOR CHANGE
TODAY IS THE DAY FOR CHANGE
Today is the day we all go to the polls to choose who we want to represent us for the next four years. All five incumbents are seeking reelection.
Mayor Hegy is seeking a second term for Division 2. Ever wonder how a BRAND NEW Councillor gets the top job? We sure have.
Saturday, October 14, 2017
THE TIME IS NOW
THE TIME IS NOW
Another term for the LSAC Municipal Council has elapsed and the Electorate are preparing to vote on Oct 16 for division representatives. While it is often difficult, if not impossible to grab the attention of our elected officials while they are in office, Election Day provides voters the once-in-four-year opportunity to pass judgment on promises kept or not kept during the term of this Municipal Council and an opportunity to make a change if warranted.Friday, October 13, 2017
LSARA REVIEW of the Lac Ste. Anne Governance Process and Practices Report
LSARA REVIEW
LAC STE. ANNE COUNTY FARMER REPORT
Russell
Farmer and Associates Consulting Ltd.
A
Report for Lac Ste Anne County
Administration
Building – Governance Processes and Practices
What is in our Review and in the Farmer Report
Wednesday, October 11, 2017
YOUR COUNTY'S FUTURE IS IN YOUR VOTE
The Quotes That We Need to Remember
Throughout the past few years the Lac Ste. Anne Ratepayers Association have been told many interesting responses to our quests for transparency. In the following days we will be posting some quotes that remind us all "WHY WE NEED TO VOTE"!!
Tuesday, October 10, 2017
Isn’t it amazing
Isn’t it amazing
By David ChawnerIsn’t it amazing – there are people, including councillor/s, complaining about “ all the negativity in the media” and yet there is a simple solution – all Council has to do is be honest and straight forward with the people who will have to pay the bills! Frankly, if they are referring to me, I DON’T CARE. If I ask a question I expect to get an honest answer, which is my RIGHT – it’s MY money (and yours), not silence or B.S. The M.G.A. (Municipal Govt. Act) says – “all information that can be made public – should be” – and the restrictions are minimal.
Mr. Hegy’s pitch for a second term as councillor
Mr. Hegy’s pitch for a second term as councillor
By David Chawner
He seems to have forgotten a few of his “accomplishments” –
Thursday, October 5, 2017
County seeks to counter spread of false information Aug 30th
County seeks to counter spread of false information Aug 30th
By David Chawner
Lac Ste. Anne County’s recent advertisement “Straight Talk About County Finances” in which they allege that “misleading information about County finances has been spread” shows the County’s 2016 long-term debt as being $1.370,470. Under the Municipal Govt. Act (M.G.A.), municipalities are required to provide Municipal Affairs Dept. with audited financial statements which the Dept. then posts on their website (https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B69V6QH-ValArZDc3SnVMYTZmSjA/view).
An open letter to Mayor & Council, Lac Ste. Anne County
An open letter to Mayor & Council, Lac Ste. Anne County
By David Chawner
Oh dear, Oh dear, Oh dear I was told that a councillor or councillors is/are upset about all the negative comments in the media …. (I hope they don’t mean me!)
Monday, October 2, 2017
Division 1,2,3 Forum Review
Thursday, September 28, 2017
Second Lac Ste. Anne County Candidates Forum
Second Candidates Forum takes place this evening (Sept 28) in Onoway at the Heritage Centre ( old elementary) school gym.
Divisions 1, 2 and 3. Moderated by Dale Johnson. If you want to know the candidates platforms, we urge you to attend. Consider what questions you may want responses to and participate in the question and answer segment.
DO YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO VOTE IN LAC STE. ANNE COUNTY
What you need to know in order to vote in the October 16th Municipal Election in the County of Lac Ste Anne
We think that it is very important that everyone exercises their democratic right to vote in this upcoming Municipal Election. It is also important that all voters inform themselves as to what the Voter Identification Requirements are.
Wednesday, September 27, 2017
Forum One Full House
Candidates Forum for Division 4, 5 6 and 7
LSARA and the DDRA hosted a Candidates Forum for Divisions 4, 5 ,6 and 7 in Darwell September 26, 2017. The forum was moderated by Terry Slemko and saw a host of candidates participate. In no particular order:Daryl Friesen Division 4 New Candidate
Steve Hoyda Division 4 New Candidate
Leo Blais Division 5 New Candidate
Joe Blakeman Division 5 New Candidate
Penny Leshenko Division 5 New Candidate
Amy Thiessen-Roy Division 5 New Candidate
Terry Nelson Division 6 New Candidate
Larry Daniel Division 7 New Candidate
Of the thirteen candidates running in Divisions 4 though 7, eight of them participated in the forum. The candidates that confirmed their attendance were all provided a copy of the Ten questions prior to the Forum in order to provide informed responses on the questions they would be asked.
LSARA provided ten so that they would have an opportunity to understand some of the questions that potentially could come from the floor. Each candidate responded to the same three questions that were selected.
They each began by introducing themselves and providing somewhat of a glimpse of what each candidate stands for, what they believe in and how they feel they can affect change. The selected questions were then responded to by each candidate and then the floor opened for questions.
There were a number of individuals that did come forward with questions for the candidates and all were provided an opportunity to respond. Many of the issues discussed surrounded communication breakdowns, accountability, taxation to name a few.
The upcoming Forum in Onoway on the 28th of September at 7 PM in the Heritage Center gym ( the old Onoway Elementary School) will host the Candidates from Divisions 1, 2 and 3.
It should be noted that LSARA sent out a communication to all the Candidates running in all Seven Divisions. We set a deadline for their response so that we could ensure that we set up appropriate time lines for the Forums and could ensure that there was ample time for all to participate.
With respect to current council, due to some communications and questions that we received, we actually extended the deadline to accommodate a response. Some of the current council chose not to respond to our invitation.
One indicated that he would not be in attendance as he was attending other forums. There were no other forums scheduled for last night.
One indicated that LSARA was hosting a Rally. So to ensure that there was no miscommunication, and to ensure receipt of the invitation, we sent another email explaining the forum.
One Councillor changed his mind after that email, the rest we heard nothing. So to say that LSARA is not open to working together is not a fair statement. We tried.
Approximately 175 people turned out in Darwell last night to hear what the Candidates had to say. What a fantastic turn from all the four Divisions. They were also people from other Divisions that indicated they choose to participate in both so that they can hear all the candidates.
This is not only an opportunity for the candidates, it is an opportunity for you, the Ratepayers of Lac Ste Anne County.
Hope to see you there.
Monday, September 25, 2017
LSAC Candidates Forum 2017 Darwell Hall
September 26th is the first of two LSARA Forums being held. The best way for everyone to get the most out of the candidates Forums is to be engaged in active listening and asking questions.
Friday, September 22, 2017
LSAC FORUMS CANDIDATES CONFIRMATION
Upcoming LSAC Forums Candidates Confirmation
LSARA is proud to host two forums in the next week. We have invited all incumbents as well as all of the new slate of candidates to these forums. In the interest of ensuring that we maximize the time for each forum and relevancy for each area, we are conducting two.Thursday, September 21, 2017
LSAC Municipal Election 2017 Candidate Forums
LSAC Municipal Election 2017
Candidate Forums
A little information for everyone on what you can expect at the Candidates Forums that are being held in Darwell co sponsored by DDRA on the 26th at 7 pm in the Hall for Divisions 4, 5, 6 and 7 and in Onoway on the 28th for Divisions 1, 2 and 3 in the Heritage center ( the old elementary gym) also at 7 pm.Sunday, September 17, 2017
Saturday, September 16, 2017
Record Numbers Putting Their Name Forward to Run in the 2017 LSAC October 2017 Election.
It appears that the people, the Ratepayers of Lac Ste Anne County are stepping up in record numbers and putting their name forward to run in the 2017 LSAC October 2017 election.
Friday, September 15, 2017
Grand Opening and a New Era for LSAC
Grand Opening and a New Era for LSAC
By Chris Yeoman LSARA President
On September 13th , the County of Lac Ste Anne held its official grand opening inviting in the Public with a ribbon cutting ceremony and a BBQ. Although I did not have an opportunity to attend the actual ribbon cutting ceremony, I did have an opportunity to go on a guided tour of the new $12 million dollar facility.
Tuesday, September 12, 2017
LSAC ADMITS MISREPRESENTATION OF LONG TERM DEBT PUBLISHED IN A RECENT ARTICLE
LSAC ADMITS MISREPRESENTATION OF LONG TERM DEBT PUBLISHED IN A RECENT LAC STE. ANNE BULLETIN ARTICLE AND PUBLISHED ON THE LSAC WEB SITE
In the September 11, 2017 Mayerthorpe Freelancer article written by Joseph Quigley, "County admits misstep in debt report" LSAC Admitted that the County misrepresented the "Long Term Debt" in a comparison chart included in the Lac Ste. Anne Bulletin Article and published on the LSAC Web Site called “Straight Talk About County Finances”.
Darwell District Recreation Association Registration and Information Tonight
The DDRA ( Darwell District Recreation Association) is
hosting a Registration and Information night for local Community Groups. This
is to assist the groups to provide information and potentially sign up new
members. 2017 marks the third year the
DDRA hosts this event.
Monday, September 11, 2017
UPDATE Meet the Candidates
LSARA is proud to present
"MEET THE CANDIDATES"
As the Candidates submit their Bio's to LSARA, we will add them to this Post to inform the Ratepayers who is running and what they stand for. If you are a Candidate please submit your Bio, Picture and which Zone you represent in a "Word File" by email to lsaracares@gmail.com and we will ensure to add it to this Post as they are received.Sunday, September 10, 2017
No Endorsements
May the Best Candidates Succeed!
While LSARA is actively participating in providing information on the candidates for the upcoming 2017 Election and providing candidate forums, we wish to ensure impartiality.
Several of the candidates are members of LSARA, with some holding Director positions.
Saturday, September 9, 2017
So, I ask you. Who is facilitating rumors? Who is being transparent?
So, I ask you. Who is facilitating rumors? Who is being transparent?
As we review some of our Articles that we have posted in this last year, we see that some have come full circle. What does that mean?
Well, the group that is now LSARA petitioned against the new Administration Building. Why did we do that? We did it because we believed (and still do) that much more research, review and consultation was required.
Thursday, September 7, 2017
Update LSAC Administration Building Project Status
LSAC Administration Building
Project Status Update
LSAC updated their Administration Building Project Status Update on their web site today. Too bad they did not use the "Correct Date"!
Here we have another attempt to avoid the disclosure of the real Issues and what is being done about them.
Sunday, September 3, 2017
Special Concessions for Some LSAC Businesses
Let's talk about the Public Notice that was placed by LSAC Council and Administration in the August 28, 2017 edition. In the notice, they indicate that there are two portions of land, SW-01-57-07W5 and NW 36-06-07W5M that they are considering a "SPECIAL DEAL" on.
Saturday, September 2, 2017
NEW BUILDERS LIEN $1,356,151.00 Filed By Casman on LSAC Administration Building
GOING TO COURT???
LSARA has been trying to obtain the "STATUS OF THE ADMINISTRATION BUILDING" and we have been told if we want it, we "MUST FOIP IT". "FOIP IT" we did and 60 DAYS LATER LSAC still has not released the information that we have asked for!!!It has been 99 DAYS SINCE THE LAST ATTEMPT OF AN UPDATE TO THE " Latest status reports, budget updates and more." ON THE LSAC WEBSITE!!
Friday, September 1, 2017
Election 2017 – Last Chance to Save the County
Election 2017 – Last Chance to Save the County
A final appeal to Business, and Home Owners......
Has there been a more important election in the County of Lac Ste Anne, ever? I doubt it. During the most recent Information Event the County held in Darwell, Planning Manager Matthew Ferris declared the County as the new RV Recreational County. I am not aware of another declaration of this type anywhere in Alberta, and for good reason.
Thursday, August 31, 2017
Letter from Elvira Adams Whitecourt, AB
August 26,
2017
To the LSAC
Councillors: Matthew Ferris and LSARA
RE: RV’s on Vacant Residential Land
We have
owned a lot in the Lessard Lake Estates for over 30 years. A little history – the county was pretty
happy to see the lots in this subdivision sold (the initial developer went into
receivership) after several years in limbo they would finally receive some tax
revenue. The lots were mostly treed and
only had services to the lot.
Tuesday, August 29, 2017
RV or NO RV Another type of "Recreational User"
Letter to LASRA
When we purchased our land in 2013 the owner had 2 RVS parked on bare land. I specifically asked him is this ok and he said oh it is fine but feel free to call the county. (Thank god) I did call the county and was told under no circumstances could we just park our RV there.Monday, August 28, 2017
RV BYLAW OPEN HOUSE Wednesday August 30th 5-8 PM Darwell Hall
RV BYLAW OPEN HOUSE
Almost a month has gone by since the Open House for the Proposed changes in our Land Use Bylaw. Lac Ste. Anne County has not published any new information on their Web Site regarding the Summary of these changes or a reminder of this "Open House".Sunday, August 27, 2017
LSAC Now Wants to "STRAIGHT TALK"?
LSAC Now Wants to "STRAIGHT TALK"?
Lac Ste. Anne Ratepayers Association has been seeking Open and Transparent discussions and Information regarding LSAC Finances since our formation in 2016. We have been told if we 'WANT IT" we must "FOIP IT". So FOIP it we did and we are still waiting for it.Friday, August 25, 2017
WHAT ARE THE COUNCILLORS RESPONSIBILITIES
DUTIES OF A COUNCILLOR
Why is it important, as a Ratepayer, to fully understand the Duties of Councillors?
Thursday, August 24, 2017
County Considers $1 lease on Sangudo Speedway
Wednesday, August 23, 2017
LSARA MEETING ANOTHER GREAT TURNOUT!!!
LAC STE. ANNE COUNTY RATEPAYERS AGAIN SHOW
"THEY DO CARE"
Approximately 93 LSAC Ratepayers attended LSARA's 6th meeting. We were very pleased to have 8 of the current 15 Candidates vying for your vote present at the meeting.
Monday, August 21, 2017
LSARA Meeting Today 7 pm August 21, 2017 at the Gunn Hall
Find out what we have been up to! Find out where we are headed and join our Association. Lots of HOT TOPICS! Hope to see you all there.
Friday, August 18, 2017
Part 4 LSAC "ACTIVITY REPORT" TIME FOR TRANSPARENCY
Another Report To Compare
Once again , to keep the comparisons fair, we utilized the Lac Ste Anne Activity Report from 2011/2012 to compare the Planning & Development Report. Tanya Vanderwell was the Planning & Development Manager and had prepared the report for the 2011 calendar year. Tanya was Recognized in the 2016 LSAC Service Awards and was Congratulated for 15 years of service, hard work, and dedication. Tanya's report clearly followed the direction set forward by the County Manager at that time, Len Szybunka. Part 3 LSAC "ACTIVITY REPORT" TIME FOR TRANSPARENCY
Here We Go Folks With Our Next Comparison
This time the focus is the County Managers Report. In 2011/2012 it was know as the County Managers Report. Now in 2016 it is reported as "Message from your CAO".
Len Szybunka spent many years as the County Manager not entirely sure why it is that the title had to change for the position. Does this make the position any more important?
Len Szybunka spent many years as the County Manager not entirely sure why it is that the title had to change for the position. Does this make the position any more important?
Wednesday, August 16, 2017
Part 2 LSAC "ACTIVITY REPORT" TIME FOR TRANSPARENCY
Fluff or Transparency – The Reeve Report
When determining whether an article is Fluff or actually transparent or an attempt at, it behooves the writer to provide some quantifying information on both. For the purpose of these articles, we utilized the 2011/2012 Activity Report as there are some clear distinctions between how things used to be reported vs how they are reported now.NEED MORE CASH NOW??? JUST BORROW IT!!!
County to Borrow $1.9 Million for Paving Project
Mayerthorpe Freelancer Article
County Manager Mike Primeau said:
“It frees up money because there's a lot of this road included in future years. By getting it off the books, it allows us to look at the capital road plan and move projects up,” Primeau said.
Tuesday, August 15, 2017
PART 1 LSAC "ACTIVITY REPORT" TIME FOR TRANSPARENCY
WHY IS OUR LSAC COUNCIL AND ADMINISTRATION COVERING UP THE FACTS WITH FLUFF!
The Ratepayers have our 6th Informational Public Meeting on August 21, 2017 and we have a LSAC Municipal Election on October 16, 2017.
Now more than ever has it become "IMPERATIVE" that you the Ratepayers attend our next LSARA Meeting. Why you ask?
