Foothills No. 31, M.D. of
http://www.mdfoothills.com
Welcome
WELCOME TO THE M.D. OF FOOTHILLS No. 31
Council and staff of the Municipal District of Foothills would like to take this opportunity to welcome you to one of the most naturally beautiful and diverse areas of Alberta. The M.D. of Foothills is predominantly an agricultural community with a wide range of varied housing types – from farmsteads to acreages and Hamlets to condominiums. It is truly the best of both worlds – proximity to the City of Calgary, without compromising the peaceful, rural atmosphere.
The M.D. of Foothills and the communities within, provide many services, recreational programs and a wide range of opportunities for all ages. The majestic Rocky Mountains and rolling foothills provide not only a picturesque view to the west but also a wide range of leisure and sporting activities as close as your own backyard. We invite you to seriously consider the M.D. of Foothills No. 31 as the choice for your new home. Consider the relaxed pace of country living, a friendly, secure environment, and the great feeling of “being right at home”. A Hearty Western Welcome!!!!
QUICK FACTS
| Population |
19,736 - 2006 census |
| Location |
Rural Municipality bordering the south end of the City of Calgary |
| Highways |
Two Provincial primary highways -- Highway No. 2 and Highway No. 22 -- run north/south through the municipality |
| LifeStyle |
Predominately agricultural, offering beautiful acreage lifestyles and diverse economic opportunities |
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Close proximity to Airports and U.S. Border |
For more information call:
Harry Riva Cambrin, CAO
Samantha Payne
Telephone: 403-652-2341
M.D. of Foothills No. 31
Area Overview
The Municipal District of Foothills No. 31 is a rural municipality located adjacent to and immediately south of the City of Calgary. The M.D. covers an area of approximately 1,400 square miles (3,552 square kilometres) in the foothills of sunny southern Alberta. It surrounds the Towns of Okotoks, High River, Turner Valley, and Black Diamond, the Village of Longview, and the Eden Valley Indian Reserve. The M.D. celebrated its 50th Anniversary in 2004.
The results of the 2006 Census indicated that 19,736 people live in the M.D. of Foothills.
The M.D. of Foothills provides a number of services -- directly or jointly with other municipalities -- to the residents of the rural area and the Hamlets of Aldersyde, Blackie, Cayley, De Winton, Hartell, Heritage Pointe, Millarville, Naptha, Priddis and Priddis Greens. These services include general administration, road construction and maintenance, fire protection, ambulance service, garbage disposal, planning and development administration, agricultural services, recreation and parks, family and community support services, and bylaw enforcement. Water services are provided in the hamlets of Aldersyde, Blackie and Cayley, and waste water services are provided in the hamlets of Blackie and Cayley.
M.D. of Foothills staff are responsible for the administration of the Foothills Regional Commission, which operates the Foothills Regional Waste Management Facility and the Frank Lake Effluent Pumping System.
The M.D. maintains approximately 2,000 miles of road. Two Provincially maintained primary highways -- Highway No. 2 and Highway No. 22 -- run north/south through the municipality, giving easy access to Canadian and US markets. Its proximity to the Rocky Mountains and the City of Calgary makes the M.D. of Foothills an ideal location for small or large businesses. The M.D. of Foothills No. 31 is one of the fastest growing districts in Alberta.
Location
The M.D. of Foothills No. 31 borders the southern boundary of the City of Calgary and is located in Southern Alberta. The City of Edmonton is approximately four hours to the north and the City of Lethbridge is one and a half hours to the south. The U.S.A. border is approximately two hours South from the M.D. of Foothills No. 31, on the North/South Trade Corridor and the Calgary International Airport is one hour to the North from the 2A Corridor in the M.D. of Foothills.
The Municipal District #31 was incorporated in January, 1954.
Latitude: North 50o 55’ N, South 50o 19’ N
Longitude: East 113o 30’E, West 114o 31’E
Canada Map
Alberta Map
Time Zone: Mountain Standard Time
Incorporated Communities within the municipal district:
- Town of Okotoks 17,145 population
- Town of High River 12,646 population
- Town of Turner Valley 1,900 population
- Town of Black Diamond 1,986 population
- Village of Longview 300 population
- Eden Valley Reserve 509 population (Source: 2001 Stats Canada Census)
Hamlets within the M.D. of Foothills #31
- Aldersyde
- Blackie
- Cayley
- DeWinton
- Heritage Pointe (residential development on a World Class Golf Course)
- Millarville
- Naphtha
- Priddis
- Priddis Greens (residential development on a World Class Golf Course)
Economic Base
The major economic base of the area is agriculture and the gas & oil industry. Like all municipalities in this province, the M.D. of Foothills benefits from "THE "ALBERTA ADVANTAGE".
ALBERTA, THE BEST PLACE TO WORK, LIVE AND DO BUSINESS
The province of Alberta is a leader in the Canadian economy. Alberta has had the fastest growing economy in Canada over the past two decades, with real GDP growth averaging 3.7 percent per year. Highlighting Alberta's success in the past year is:
- Over $73.2 billion in international exports of goods and services (2004)
- Manufacturing shipments of $52.6 billion (2004)
- Creation of 40,000 new jobs in 2004 and 433,900 between 1994 and 2004
- Over $103 billion in major capital projects are proposed, announced, under construction or recently completed (2004)
Source: Alberta Economic Development
Alberta's Positive Business Climate
- The lowest overall taxes in Canada
- No provincial sales tax
- No general capital or payroll taxes prevalent in other provinces and U.S. states
- A highly entrepreneurial and competitive business community
- A fiscally responsible government that has eliminated its provincial debt, demonstrating to investors the business-like attitude of the government
- A highly skilled, educated and motivated workforce that is the most productive in Canada.
Source: Alberta Economic Development
The Province of Alberta has a strong, vibrant economy. Alberta has the fastest growing economy in Canada. The province consistently has the highest investment per capita among provinces and the lowest unemployment rate in Canada.
The Alberta Advantage - no sales tax and personal income tax is low. The Municipality does not charge a business tax for small or large business. We do however, levy a Business Licence Fee on an annual basis.
AVAILABILITY OF LABOR IN THE M.D. OF FOOTHILLS
Labour markets may be drawn on from the Municipal District of Foothills, Town of Okotoks, High River, Turner Valley, Black Diamond and the City of Calgary. Commuting distance from each of the urban centres is approximately 30 minutes.
Labour market information on the current work force can be obtained through Community Futures Highwood, located in High River. Community Futures Highwood can also direct employers to hiring programs suitable for new and existing businesses in the M.D. and region
DEMOGRAPHICS
- 55+ opportunity
38% of the population is over 45 years and growing.
ADDITIONAL STRENGTHS
- Natural Resources (oil, gas, gravel and agricultural lands)
- Power and Utility Corridor
- Designated Direct Control District (Business Parks, Cargill, Magcan)
- Community Spirit and vibrant demographics
- Educated Workforce
- Access to major markets
- Choice of rural or urban (small and large) communities
Economic Facts
AGRICULTURE
Opportunities to compliment and support existing Agricultural base, such as Genetics, bio-technology developments, nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals. Superior quality soil and conditions contribute to the success of specialty farming (tree farms, berries) and Nurseries.
Alberta Finance Statistics also contains much information which may be useful.
INTEREST AND SUPPORT FROM THE COMMUNITY
We strongly support and encourage local business development and diversification within our region and all of Alberta.
New and expanding business stimulates the local economy in many aspects and provides additional employment opportunities and options. We are extremely supportive of a proposal that would compliment or enhance the local market for the existing agricultural community. We are prepared to assist in any way possible, providing a proposal does not infringe on the safety or quality of life for our residents and existing business.
Utilities
Foothills Regional Services Commission (Landfill)
P.O. Box 5605
309 Macleod Trail
High River, Alberta
T1V 1M7
Phone: 938-5224
Fax: 938-5282
Email: solidwaste@platinum.ca
SE 32-19-29-W4M
Located on Highway #783 (16th St. E.)
5.5 km south of Highway #7
5 km north of Highway #543
HOURS OF OPERATION
Monday-Saturday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
(Please arrive with enough time to empty your vehicle and be out of gate by 4:30 p.m.)
Closed Sunday and all Statutory Holidays.
Excessive rain may make access by 2 wheel drives difficult, please phone if unsure.
The Foothills Regional Waste Management Facility (landfill) is now active with recycling and would like to remind everyone to source separate all your loads (tonnage fees apply).
The following recycling and source sorting of materials is required:
1.) metal
2.) appliances (freon removal charge may apply)
3.) batteries,
4.) tires,
5.) used oil
6.) used oil filters,
7.) antifreeze,
8.) propane bottles
9.) wood ( must be CLEAN of ALL large metal, nails do not have to be removed)
10.) green waste (leaves, grass, small branches) for composting
11.) cardboard
12.) household hazardous waste & paint
13.) Pesticide containers only @ no charge (must be triple rinsed!)
14.) Computers (parts, accessories) and TV’s
WHAT’S NEW
The Foothills Regional Waste Management Facility is now accepting household hazardous waste (paints, cleaning solvents, chemicals etc.) We cannot accept commercial, industrial or radioactive waste, explosives or ammunition.
Taxation
Tax & Mill Rate Information
Total mill rates for residential and farm properties are the same in 2004 as they were in 2003. The mill rate for machinery and equipment has increased due to a requirement in the Municipal Government Act. This requirement stipulates that the machinery and equipment mill rate must be equal to the municipal portion of the non-residential mill rate. The total mill rate for non-residential parcels has decreased slightly.
2004 Total Mill Rates
- Residential - 8.0095
- Farm - 11.5229
- Industrial and Commercial - 13.4850
- Machinery and Equipment - 6.7792
The M.D. of Foothills offers early payment/monthly payment incentive plans whereby a ratepayer may save 3% to 6% on the property tax bill.
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| Municipal Tax Rate |
3.8185 |
6.6629 |
| Education - Alberta School Foundation Fund Tax Rate |
4.0747 |
6.7058 |
| Education Opted Out Tax Rate |
4.0747 |
6.7058 |
| Seniors Lodge Accommodation Tax Rate |
.1163 |
.1163 |
Foothills Administration Building
Transportation
Proximity to Calgary provides High Tech and Distribution capabilities to facilitate local industry, as well as providing an abundance of air, rail and infrastructure networks. Highway #2 runs directly north/south through the M.D. and has been designated Alberta’s North-South Trade corridor, which is part of the National Highway System and represents the backbone of the roadway network that provides direct access to the United States. Calgary International Airport.
- Approximately 100 km north of High River on the North end of Calgary,
- For a listing of non-stop passenger destinations visit Passenger Non-stop Destinations
- Provides a single hub location that specializes in a wide range of services including receiving, transferring, storing, and distributing air, rail and highway cargo both domestically and internationally
- The airport offers 360 degree market penetration for International cargo & passenger carriers. 50 million people can be reached within a days travel.
- Calgary is the ‘ONLY’ Canadian airport strategically located on the cross roads of the Trans Canada (East-West) and the CanaMex Highways (North-South) Cargo Information
The Okotoks Airport (Okotoks Air Ranch) is just minutes east of Okotoks and the High River Regional Airport is 4 km South of High River. This region has an excellent access to markets in Western Canada and the Western United States. Primary Highways:
- Highway #2 (North American Trade Corridor)
- Hwy 23, 2a, 7, 22, 22X and 66
- Secondary Highways: 291 kilometers
- Oiled Surface and Gravel Roads: 1,883 kilometers
Community Lifestyle
RECREATION
Enjoy the country living experience without losing the convenience and amenities of the small town and city. The M.D. of Foothills borders the south end of the City of Calgary and has several smaller towns located within its boundaries, which only accents the high quality of life offered in this region. Additionally, the west boundary of the M.D. abuts the foothills and Rocky Mountains, making this area a perfect place to live, work and play.
Farm nestled in foothills
Education
Public Schools
Foothills School Division #38
Website: www.fsd38.ab.ca
P.O. Box 5700, High River, AB T1V 1M7
120 - 5th Avenue West, High River, AB T1V 1M7
(403) 652-3001 or (403) 938-6436
School Locations: Cayley, High River, Blackie, Okotoks,
Black Diamond, Turner Valley, Longview,
Millarville, Red Deer Lake
Separate (Catholic) Schools
Christ the Redeemer Catholic Separate School Division #3
Website: www.redeemer.ab.ca
P.O. Bag 3, Okotoks, AB T1S 2A2
46 Elma Street, Okotoks, AB T1S 2A2
(403) 938-2659
School Locations: High River, Okotoks
Private Schools
Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School
Website: www.sts.ab.ca
"A co-educational country day-school, for grades 1 to 12, that incorporates the International Baccalaureate program."
RR 2, Okotoks, AB T1S 1A2
(403) 938-4431
School Location: NE 11-21-1-W5; approximately 6 miles northwest of Okotoks at the corner of 306 Ave & 24 St W in the M.D. of Foothills.
Edison Private School
Web site: www.edisonschool.ca
"A non-denominational private school for Junior Kindergarten to grade 12."
Box site 11 RR 2, Okotoks T1S 1A2
(403) 938-7670
School Location: SE 5-21-29-W4; approximately ½ mile North of Okotoks on Hwy 2A, in the M.D. of Foothills.
Post Secondary
BUILDING FUTURES
Continuing Education courses are offered in High River, Okotoks, and Black Diamond/Turner Valley. Proximity to Calgary's Rapid Transit System enables many post-secondary students to live at home and commute to school. For information on Educational Opportunities in close proximity to the region visit the school's corresponding website:
Health Care
Residents in the Municipal District of Foothills may obtain health care from a variety of sources, as part of the Calgary Regional Health Authority.
- High River Hospital 403-652-2200
- High River Public Health 403-652-5450
- High River Community Care 403-652-0173
- Black Diamond Hospital 403-933-2222
- Black Diamond Public Health & Community Care 403-933-8505
- Okotoks Health & Wellness Centre 403-995-2600
- Okotoks Public Health, Community Care, & Urgent Care 403-938-4911
Emergency Services
The M.D. of Foothills No. 31 is serviced by 9-1-1 for emergency response for fire, police, and ambulance vehicles. Volunteer fire departments are centred in Black Diamond, Blackie, Cayley, High River, Longview, Okotoks, Priddis, and Turner Valley. Calgary Fire Department responds to calls from a portion of the municipality. RCMP detachments are located in High River, Okotoks, and Turner Valley.
Community Services
The M.D. of Foothills offers a Family and Community Support Program (FCSS) in partnership with the Province of Alberta. The FCSS assists organizations with funding for social programs offered throughout the M.D., such as Literacy for Life, School Liaison Workers, youth programs and many more. It also offers a subsidized transportation service to those senior citizens and disabled citizens requiring assistance to attend medically-related appointments. In addition, the FCSS provides to M.D. residents, community groups, and potential business owners, staff assistance with community projects, site selections, grant applications and much, much more. The staff is dedicated to providing a high quality service to all M.D. residents. Several Community Halls are located throughout the M.D., ideal for many types of events, as well as quaint country churches for that perfect private wedding. Campgrounds are plentiful and all are in convenient, beautiful locations near rivers, mountains and the urban amenities.
Climate
The mountains cause the climate in Southern Alberta to be rather dry, though the foothills receive the most rainfall.
- Summers are pleasantly mild, with an average daily July temperature range from 10° to 23° C (49° to 74° F).
- Winters are long and cold, with an average daily January temperature range from -16° to -4° C (4° to 26° F), but are relieved by frequent warm winds called chinooks. Warm, dry "chinook" winds are produced when air funnels through the Rockies. Some warmer air enters Alberta from the south, or from the west, making temperatures in southern Alberta as much as 10° to 15° C higher than in the north.
A typical sunny winter day
Google Map
Foothills No. 31, M.D. of, Alberta, Canada