Rocky View County eyes specialized status

By Sean Feagan, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Rocky View County is looking to become a Specialized Municipality, which would allow the establishment of service zones varying by tax rate and service level.
Rocky View County, which neighbours Wheatland County to the west, is considering applying to the provincial government to become a Specialized Municipality, a form of local government allowing a single jurisdiction to manage different land areas under separate rules and conditions.
The status allows the municipality to govern both rural and urban areas, by categorizing its land area based on the levels and types of services providing and establishing a corresponding tax rate. Under this model, rural areas generally receive less services, and therefore pay a lower rate, resulting in “a more equitable system for all ratepayers,” according to background provided by Rocky View County.
The result is shared governance, operations and finances between the rural and urban areas, allowing the provision of “more geographically targeted services to residents and businesses.”
There are currently six Specialized Municipalities in Alberta: the Municipality of Jasper, the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass, the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, Strathcona County, Mackenzie County and Lac La Biche County.
Rocky View County is proposing two types of urban service delivery areas: business and residential, with the former having a lower rate and level of service. Five hamlets – Balzac West, Conrich, Glenbow (a future hamlet area), Harmony and Langdon – and four business areas – Balzac East, Conrich, Janet, and Springbank Airport and Commercial Area – are proposed.
The establishment of residential service areas would allow the county to apply for provincial and federal grants targeting urban areas, while rural areas would continue to be eligible for grants targeting rural municipalities. It also allows equipment and staff to be shared between areas, thereby reducing overhead.
Rocky View County is currently holding public engagement regarding the application, with a report presenting feedback scheduled for May 2020. If approved by council, a decision on the application is expected by late 2020.