County determines CCTF funding a poor use of taxpayer money, provides explanation why the municipality chose to not apply for the funding.

Soon after the Government of Alberta introduced the Climate Leadership Plan in 2015, a plan which includes the accelerated phase out of coal-fired power generation, Parkland County began taking proactive measures to assess the fiscal and social impacts the policy decision will have on the municipality and its residents and business community. Nine of the eighteen coal-fired power generating stations in Alberta are located in Parkland County. 

Within one year of the decision to close these plants early, three coal-fired electricity generation companies were paid $1.36 billion and the Community and Regional Economic Support (CARES) program was announced.  Parkland County, on behalf of regional partners, submitted an application on May 31, 2017 requesting funding for the establishment of a Regional Economic Development Alliance (REDA) that would support and advance economic development initiatives to support  and advance local businesses.  Parkland County has also submitted an MOU to the Province that would allow for effective offsets to the loss of coal. This was a proactive approach to a complex problem.

To date, a response has not been received on the CARES grant application or the MOU from the Government of Alberta.

At a press conference at Parkland County Centre on September 11, 2017, Hon. Minister Deron Bilous announced the creation of the Coal Communities Transition Fund (CCTF), a $4.5 Million program open to 19 affected communities. The program enables municipalities and First Nations to access money to undertake studies and develop reports identifying economic opportunities.  Upon learning the details of the CCTF, Parkland County determined an application would not be submitted.

“Parkland County recognizes there is one taxpayer and all monies spent by any level of government should be prudent.  There has to be value for the community that results in tangible outcomes,” said Mayor Rod Shaigec.  

“We’ve completed studies identifying the impacts of the coal phase out and have developed economic development strategies. What we need is for the Province to recognize the significant tax revenue we are losing, that we are facing those losses beginning in 2018 and they will continue and escalate,” he said.

“Parkland County has spent the past number of years developing strategies and plans to prepare for what was known at the time relative to the coal transition. These have all been presented to the Province and include items such as critical infrastructure required for ensuring business stays in Parkland County, as well as numerous social development items such as fire halls, and a rural economic development Initiative,” said Mike Heck, CAO.

The offsetting payments to power producers is over 300 times the amount set aside for communities.   

Parkland County recognizes the challenges facing the Notley government.  These are complex issues, and consideration must be given to the regulatory framework, process, financial implications and the impacts on affected communities. There is not a one size fits all solution.

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For more information about this advisory, please contact:

Communications

Phone:  780-968-8888 ext. 8313

E-mail: communications@parklandcounty.com