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Town of Eckville
5023-51st Avenue, P.O. Box 578
Eckville, AB  T0M 0X0
Phone:  (403) 746-2171  Fax:  (403) 746-2900

WELCOME FROM THE MAYOR

Proud home of skeleton racer, World Cup Champion, and Olympic Bronze Medalist, Mellisa Hollingsworth, Eckville is a small community, but one of which we are very proud.  Our gratitude goes out to the many folks who came to this land in the early years who with perseverance and determination made Eckville what it is today - a vibrant community with warm hospitality.

Today, this prosperous growing community is the center for agriculture, oil and gas, and lumber enterprises as well as a major center for people to live in and enjoy the "small town atmosphere" with the "big town amenities."

Eckville offers the visitor and resident alike a full range of retail businesses, shopping, restaurants, public services, banks, excellent sporting facilities, a Community Centre, Seniors' Friendship Centre, Seniors' Lodge, and two golf courses, just to name a few.  Annual events include the Dance Jamboree, Winter Carnival, CARA Rodeo, Bull-Arena, Curling Bonspiels, Canada Day Celebrations, Annual Parade, Municipal Breakfast, and various tournaments including hockey, baseball, and school sports. 

A short drive from Eckville in any direction brings many attractions from the Rocky Mountains, back country, to ski hills, major lakes, trout ponds, and many campgrounds.  Eckville is located in the heart of the Parkland off Highway 11 between Red Deer and Rocky Mountain House and is surrounded by scenic rolling hills, winding rivers, rich mixed farmland, and a thriving oil and gas field.   Please take some time to explore our newly renovated website.  It provides information on our Town's municipal government council, committees, bylaws, services, announcements, businesses, community groups, and recreation as well as many other aspects of life in Eckville.  Try the virtual tour of Eckville by clicking on the seevirtual360 icon.

Please feel welcome here.  YOU ARE!

Helen Posti, Mayor of Eckville

Welcome to Eckville Package 

 
Director:  Heather Allen
5023-51st Avenue, P.O.  Box 39, Eckville, AB  T0M 0X0
Phone:  (403) 746-3177  Fax:  (403) 746-2900  Email:  fcss@pent.net
Hours of Operation:  Monday to Thursday from 1:00 to 4:30 p.m.   Click here for more information on F.C.S.S. and the services provided 

F.C.S.S. sponsors and/or provides funding for cummunity-based programs, services, and social initiatives with a focus on prevention that enhances the well being of individuals, families, and the community as a whole.  F.C.S.S. is funded through a partnership between the Province of Alberta and the Town of Eckville and provides services such as Information & Referral, Lifeline, Form Completion Assistance, and the Food Bank. 

FCSS Fall Registration
Summer is nearing an end, and it is soon time to register for FCSS. Fall registration is at 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, September 8, 2010 at the Eckville Arena. Mark the date on your calendar!! For more information, call the FCSS Office at (403) 746-3177.
 

Utility Services

 
2010 Utility Rates - Water, Sewer, Garbage
Effective January 1, 2010 residential charges for the purchase of water, the disposal of sewage, and the collection and disposal of garbage for the Town of Eckville will be as follows:  Water (to 20 cubic meters) $25 + Sewer $47 + Garbage $41 = $56.50/month. 
All utility rates are applicable to a bi-month billing cycle.  Click here for more details on 2010 Utility Rates

Landlord/Tenant Situations
Landlords:  Town of Eckville Water and Sewer Bylaw #692-09 states that "Every owner where there is a landlord/tenant situation must sign a Utilities Rental Agreement consenting to allow any unpaid utility account balances to be transferred to the property tax account plus any fees an penalties.  Failure to sign a Utility Rental Agreement will result in the Town supplying utility services only to the owner in accordance with Section 42 of the Municipal Government Act."  This agreement MUST be signed before the utility account can be put into the tenant's name.
Tenants:  Once the landlord has signed a Utilities Rental Agreement and returned it to the Town  Office for our records, all tenants who wish the account to be in their name must complete a Utility Service Application.  A deposit of $250 is required for renters responsible to pay utilities and residents within a manufactured home park.  The deposit will be due before water service is effective.
 

Payment Agreements

 
Tax Pre-Payment Agreement
A property owner can pay current year taxes on a monthly basis by signing an agreement to have your payments made to the Town of Eckville either by post-dated cheques or debit.  (A Pre-Authorized Debit Agreement must be completed for debit services).   In June of the current year, after the current year's taxes are levied on your property, the outstanding balance will be divided into six (6) equal payments which the Town requires on the first of each month from July to December.  Visit the town office for more information, or click on the name for a copy Tax Pre-Payment Agreement.

Pre-Authorized Debit Agreement
Have your bi-monthly utility bill and/or monthly tax bill automatically withdrawn from your bank account.  Applications are available at the Town Office, or click on the name for a copy Pre-Authorized Debit Agreement.  A Monthly Tax Payment Agreement must be completed before applying for pre-authorized debit of property taxes.  

Public Forms

 
Animal Licensing Brochure
Application for Bulk Water Services
Application for Demolition Permit
Application for Sewage Disposal
Business License Application
Home Business License Information
Parade Application
Property Assessment Appeal
Property Assessment Complaint Information
Public Complaints Form
Volunteer Board Application
Volunteer Staff Application
 

Town Notices

 
Municipal Election 2010                                                         Links:  Alberta Municipal Affairs, A.U.M.A.
Come on out and exercise your right to vote! Any person is eligible to vote if they are at least 18 years old, are a Canadian citizen, and have resided in Alberta for six consecutive months immediately preceding Election Day and the person’s place of residence is located in the town of Eckville on Election Day. Each voting citizen has a designated voting station based at their area of residence. Contact the Town office with your questions or inquiries Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

                                                Nomination Day - Monday, September 20, 2010 from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon at the Eckville Town Office
                                                Advance Vote - Wednesday, October 6, 2010 from 4:00 -8:00 p.m. at the Eckville Town Office
                                                Election Day - Monday, October 18, 2010 from 10:00 a.m - 8:00 p.m. at the Eckville Town Office 

Click on any of the following forms to print a copy.  All forms are also available at the Town Office. 
2010 Nomination Form
Municipal Election - Candidate Information
Running for Municipal Office in Alberta - A Candidate's Guide
Municipal Councillors' Guidelines for Conflict of Interest
 
Candidate Information Sessions - 2010 General Election
(Government of Alberta Municipal Affairs Information Bulletin 03/10, May 2010)
Alberta Municipal Affairs and Transitional Solutions Inc. support a website to assist citizens, potential candidates and offical agents prepare for the upcoming local government elections.  The website address is www.elections2010.info.  What do potential candidates need to know before the election?  The website design helps to provide an understanding of the election procss and the obligations and rights that are associated with local governments and municipal election activities.  There will be a number of interactive sessions for potential candidates and official agents throughout the province.

Evening Sessions 6:00 to 9:30 p.m. at each location 

Date	Location
August 25	Morinville
August 31	Red Deer
September 1	Lethbridge
September 8	Grande Prairie
September 9	Peace River

Penalty on Outstanding Taxes
The Town of Eckville 2010 Tax Levy, made under the provisions of the Municipal Government Act, has been completed and the Tax Notices were mailed on June 4, 2010. Taxes are due August 31, 2010 unless you have entered into a Tax Pre-payment Agreement with the Town. On September 1, 2010, a 12% penalty will be added to any current outstanding taxes.  Inquiries regarding your notices should be directed to the Town of Eckville at (403) 746-2171 or by fax at (403) 746-2900, or email us at info@eckville.com.

E-Waste Drop Off Now at Public Works Yard

The drop off for all e-waste has moved to the north side of the Public Works yard. 

Water Restriction Policy #4101 - Odd and Even Addresses

In an effort to conserve water and protect the environment, the Town initiated a Water Restriction Program.  Watering of lawns, gardens and plantings will be implemented on a continuing basis.  Occupants/owners with even-numbered addresses are permitted to water on even-numbered calendar days, and odd-numbered addresses are permitted to water on odd-numbered calendar days.  Please water only in the early morning before 12:00 noon, or after 6:00 p.m.

Off-Highway Vehicles - Bylaw #601-97
Any owner/operator of an off-highway vehicle is allowed to travel on roadways, lanes, and designated trails for the purpose of providing either a direct route of travel to areas outside of the Town limits, or a direct route of travel from outside the Town limits to a pre-determined destination within the Town.  No person shall operate an off-highway vehicle between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m., and they are prohibited from school areas, all park and recreation areas, the cemetery, and the sewage lagoon area.

Recreational Vehicles - Bylaw #688-08
Recreational vehicles will be allowed to park on the street in front of the registered owner's residence in the Town of Eckville from May 15 to September 15 unless the recreational vehicle poses a traffic or safety hazard.  The recreational vehicle may not be permitted to park on a public street location if at the discretion of a Peace Officer the recreation vehicle is considered a traffic or public safety hazard.  Recreational vehices parked on private property must be fully contained within the property.  No portion of a recreational vehicle is permitted to protrude into a public street, laneway, or sidewalk.  No person shall use, ride, propel, or operate a bicycle, rollerblades, skateboard, inline skates, or scooter on any sidewalk in the Town of Eckville at any time.  Baby strollers, children's wagons, walking aids, and bicycles that have a wheel diameter less than 50 centimeters are exempted from this provision.

Try to Keep the Noise to a Minimum - Bylaw #534-88
Summer is approaching, which brings more outside activities to enjoy.  However, please be respectful of your noise levels within the Town limits.  No person is allowed to make, continue, cause, or allow to be made or continued, any loud, unnecessary or unusual noise or any noice whatsoever which either annoys, disturbs, injures, endangers, or detracts from the comfrot, repose, health, peace, or safety of other persons within the limits of the Town of Eckville.

Community Compost Pile
The Town of Eckville makes compost available to the public.  Items not acceptable for compost have been found in the community compost pile at the Town Shop.  The site is now in a fenced area just north of the Town Shop and must be unlocked by a Town employee for resident access.  The ONLY materials acceptable for the compost pile are grass clippings, leaves, and garden/produce waste.  There are separate piles for dumping of branches/brush and leaves/grass outside of the fenced compost area.  We require your ongoing support in discarding only acceptable materials to ensure the continued success of our community compost.  Help us help you.

Post your Events on our Website Calendar
Our website has Town/Community calendars where town meetings or community events are posted for public information.  We will also upload your public events on our calendar - sports events, family gatherings or reunions, meetings, auctions, social events, or any even of interest.  Simply contact Sharon at the Town office at (403) 746-2171, or send an email to sharon@eckville.com to have your event posted. 
 

Volunteer Positions

 
Do you have a digital camera?  Would you like to volunteer as a Digital Photographer for the Town of Eckville?  The Town would like to upload photos of the many special events held in Eckville throughout the year onto our website...Winter Ice Carnival, Bull-Arena, CARA Rodeo, Parade, Chili Cook-Off, Canada Day Celebrations, Dance Jamboree, Snow Riders Grass Drags, Halloween Party or the Christmas three lighting.  We are also interested in posting pics of the various sports events held in town.  If you are interested in taking some digital photos at any or all of the many events throughout the year, contact Sharon at (403) 746-2171 or email sharon@eckville.com. 
 

2010 Community Events

 

Winter Ice Carnival - February 27 & 28

Emergency Preparedness Week - May 2-8
Municipal Breakfast - May 8
Bull-Arena - May 8
 CARA Rodeo - June 4 & 5
Chili Cook Off and Trade Show - June 4
Annual Parade - June 5
Canada Day Celebrations - July 1
50s and 60s Dance Jamboree - August 27-29
Chamber of Commerce Christmas Tree Lighting - November 25
 

 

Recreation/Cultural Funding Program

The Council of the Town of Eckville is committed to making a significant and sustainable contribution to the quality of life of its residents by supporting recreational and cultural services, facilities, programs, and events.  The Recreation/Cultural Funding Program offers grants to community groups and organizations for recreational purposes.  Projects focused on building a healthy community using recreation as a vehicle to attain positive outcomes for the community may also be funded through this policy.
Recreation/Cultural Funding Program - Guidelines and Information

 

What's News This Week....

Town of Eckville 2010 Budget

Town of Eckville September/October 2010 Newsletter 

Mellisa Hollingsworth - Click on Mellisa's name to access her website.  Send a message. Offer your support and let her know "We STILL Believe".

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1st Annual Terry Fox Run
Eckville's 1st Annual Terry Fox Run will be held on Sunday, September 19, 2010 at the Eckville Fire Department.  Registration starts at 7:30 a.m. with the official 5 km run starting at 8:45 a.m.  You can run, walk, bike, or skate - participation is encouraged and welcomed!  Pledge sheets are available at Eckville District Savings & Credit Union Ltd., the Town Office, and Blindman Valley Propane.  For more information, to participate, or to volunteer, contact Rob at (403) 746-2288.  Hope to see you there!

Eckville Recreation Board - Spray Park Fundraiser
The Eckville Recreation Board is raising funds to build a 2,000 square foot Spray Park in Millenium Park for the community of Eckville and surrounding area.  The goal is to raise the money in three years through grants, donations, and various fundraising events.  They are currently one year into the plan, and although money has been raised, they are still a long way from their goal.  The Recreation Board will be hosting a Hole-in-One Contest at Fairways at Last Hill Golf Course from Wednesday, September 15 to Sunday, September 19, 2010.  Starting on Wednesday, the five closest participants to the hole each day will qualify for a try for a hole-in-one for $1 million on the last day (Sunday).  If the participants get a hole-in-one on any day other than Sunday, they will receive $5,000.  The top five qualifiers for each day will also receive prizes.  There will also be two participants drawn at random who will get a chance to shoot for $100,000 on Sunday.  Balls are three for $10 and participants can take as many shots as they like throughout the week.

Child Care Spots Available in New Day Home
Eckville has a new day home available for child care.  It offers field trips to parks, the library and grocery store, daily crafts, baking, outdoor play and fun Movie Fridays complete with popcorn all in a warm and structured environment.  For more information, contact Christine at (403) 302-7954.

Check Your Elm Trees for Dutch Elm Disease Symptoms
The Society to Prevent Dutch Elm Disease (STOPDED) is asking municipalities and the public to help prevent Dutch Elm Disease (DED) by checking their elm trees for DED symptoms.  A confirmed DED tree must be removed immediately to prevent further spread.

If a tree is infected with DED the leaves initially become wilted and soon will curl up, turn yellow, and then brown.  This is also referred to as flagging.  Leaf symptoms are usually accompanied by brown staining under the bark.  Symptoms begin in late spring or any time during the growing season.  Suspicious elms must be tested in a STOPDED recognized lab for the presence of the fungus.  Lab costs are covered by STOPDED.

This fatal fungus, which affects all species of elm trees in Alberta, clogs the elm tree's water conducting system and will cause the tree to die, usually within one or two seasons.  The fungus is primarily spread from one tree to another by three species of insect vectors, the smaller European elm bark abeetle (SEEBB), the native elm bark beetle (NEBB) and the banded elm bark beetle (BEBB).  The beetles are attracted to weak and dying trees, which serve as breeding sites for the beetles.  Once the beetles have pupated and turned into adults, they leave the brood gallery and fly to healthy elms to feed, thus transporting the fungus on their bodies from one tree to the next.  STOPDED monitors annually for the vectors throughout the province and both the SEEBB and BEBB have been fond in various locations.  For this reason, it is important that elm firewood not be transported into or within Alberta as the wood may be harboring the bark beetles.  Firewood is confiscated at all the Alberta/Montana border crossings.

All elm trees that are showing DED symptoms must be reported immediately.  To report symptoms or for more information, call the toll-free provincial STOPDED hotline at 1-877-837-ELMS (3567).  You can also visit the website at www.stopded.org.  Also try the Government of Alberta, Agriculture and Rural Development at gov.ab.ca for more information.

Garage Sale Season
Spring is here, which means it's time for all those garage sales that are great for finding bargains ad recycling items no longer in use.  But, garage sales can also pose health risks for buyers and liability risks for sellers.

BUYERS - Health Canada advises against buying items in poor repair - damaged or cracked items, those missing parts, items or instructions.  Also, avoid items that have been banned or recalled.  If you are unsure an item is safe, check the list of consumer product recalls.
ITEMS ILLEGAL TO SELL IN CANADA - Baby gates with diamond-shaped openings at the top, baby walkers, cribs made before September 1986, strollers made before 1985, and lawn darts with elongated tips.
SELLERS - Take care!!  Under the Hazardous Products Act, it is illegal to sell or even give away products that do not meet the Act's requirements.  You could be liable in civil court.  Ensure all items meet current regulations, are not damaged, subject to a recall, or beyond age for use/sale.
PRODUCTS THAT MUST MEET SAFETY REQUIREMENTS - Car seats, children's jewellery, children's sleepwear, cosmetics, cribs, hockey helmets/face protectors, playpens, toys.

72 Hours - Are You Prepared?
After having had the opportunity to participate in a local Emergency Preparedness Week from May 2-8 to get your family prepared in case of an emergency, we would like to encourage you to continue these efforts throughout the year.  Once you have got your family prepared, there are easy ways to help prepare your extended family, friends, and community and some of these ideas take less than five minutes:

1. Follow the new Twitter account @Get_Prepared.  That way, you can stay in the loop year-found and become part of a growing community that wants to share experiences and learn more about how to prepare for emergencies.
2. Blog about emergency preparedness.  What kind of activities did you and your family undertake this year?  Or if you have lived through an emergency, what was your experience?  Did you have supplies on hand that helped you?
3. Share your story on GetPrepared.ca.  They would love to hear from you.
4. Give a presentation on emergency preparedness.  Deliver a session that will help you and your community be safer and better prepared to face a range of emergencies.  Whether you belong to a sports league, service club, or faith group, the emergency preparedness presentation is a quick, informative and valuable talk.
5. Send emergency preparedness information to your family and friends.  GetPrepared.ca has added user-friendly features that allow you to email your friends and family or send helpful information to social media sites like Facebook.

Simply click the Email or Share icons near the top of any page of the website and you can easily help others get prepared.  The site also provides tips on how to talk to kids about emergencies; how to prepare if you or a family member has special needs; or what you should do for your pets.

COAT OF ARMS

  

ARMS	CREST
The green shield colour and the gold rears of wheat indicate the agriculture of the area	The colours of the wreath and mantling are derived from the main colours of the shield  (green and gold)
The white on the shield represents peacefulness and serenity	The blue flame represents the natural gas of the area
The jagged sawtooth line represents the Rocky Mountain range	The locomotive wheel denotes the advantages and economic development of the area
The Red Griffin (animal-like figure) is taken from the Town's namesake in Scotland
The helmet indicates friendliness