New Water Act Code of Practice for Wetland Replacement Works

Alberta Environment and Parks released a new Code of Practice for Wetland Replacement Works Alberta Environment and Parks (AEP) announced a new code of practice for wetland replacement works. This update will eliminate approval wait times for proponents restoring or constructing wetlands by replacing Water Act approval requirements with a notice process for activities that […]

Facility-Based Continuing Care Survey Now Open

Survey for Alberta Health open until January 29 Alberta Health is looking for ways to better support care facility operators and improve the lives of both continuing care residents and their families. To do this, the organization is seeking input from stakeholders in review of the facility-based continuing care system. The review will identify opportunities […]

Provide Feedback on the Species at Risk Act

Environment and Climate Change Canada is seeking feedback on the proposed amendment to Schedule 1 of the Species at Risk Act Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) is inviting municipalities to provide feedback on the proposed amendment to Schedule 1 of the Species at Risk Act (SARA): the List of Wildlife Species at Risk. There […]

RMA Board Governance Review Survey

The RMA Board Governance Review committee is encouraging members to complete the survey by January 21 The Rural Municipalities of Alberta undertakes a Board Governance Review process every four years. This process allows RMA members to review how the RMA Board of Directors functions and ensures it operates in the best interests of members and […]

Updating Your Fleet Safety Program

Municipalities have a unique exposure to fleet-related claims as drivers can range from employees who occasionally run errands to personnel who operate a vehicle all day long. Many think of fleet safety as the prevention of damage to vehicles, but claims can have a devastating impact on much more. A lack of fleet safety can […]

RMA Winter 2021 Position Statements Now Available

Position statements provide a concise overview of RMA’s position on key policy areas RMA takes pride in representing the rural municipal perspective to government decision-makers, industry, and other stakeholders. As part of its advocacy efforts, RMA develops and updates a series of position statements that summarize and reflect the RMA perspective on key policy areas. […]

Universal Broadband Fund Application Deadline Approaching

Government of Canada funding applications due in early 2021 In November, the Government of Canada launched its Universal Broadband Fund (UBF) – a major win for rural, remote, and northern communities. This $1.75 billion fund will help connect communities to high-speed Internet across the country and includes a $150 million Rapid Response Stream to accelerate […]

Information on Dutch Elm Disease for Municipalities

Municipalities have a role to play in inspecting for the tree disease Dutch Elm Disease (DED) is caused by a fungal pathogen that affects American Elm trees. Alberta is home to the largest stand of DED-free American Elms in North America. This includes trees on municipal properties, shelterbelts, and on rural properties. The value of […]

Resolution Deadline for 2021 Spring Convention

Resolutions must be submitted to RMA by February 16, 2021 to be added to the Spring 2021 resolution order paper With district meetings approaching, RMA is reminding members of the important role resolutions play in guiding the association’s advocacy efforts. To maximize these efforts, having well-written resolutions that are clear, concise, and include pertinent information […]

Ministerial Order Approved to Support COVID-19-Safe Municipal Nomination Process

The Honourable Tracy Allard, Minister of Municipal Affairs, has approved Ministerial Order No. MSD:103/20, which amends section 30(1) of the Local Authorities Election Act to allow municipalities to accept candidate nomination deposits by debit or credit card when the municipal election nomination period opens on January 1, 2021. This change is intended to reduce physical […]