The new year has just started, but the Special Areas Board is already busy getting ready for 2023 projects.
After a return to pre-pandemic operations in 2022, 2023 continues to be a year of catch-up for the Board, both in projects and capital expenditures. With the proposed 2023 budget recommended by the Board for approval, administration is getting a jump-start on major capital expenditures.
“One of the defining features of living in the Special Areas has always been figuring out how to get things done, despite any challenges or shortages faced. For us, 2022 was no different,” said special areas board chair Jordon Christianson. “2022 sometimes felt like we were almost getting back to normal; however, we continued to face many of the same challenges since 2020. From shortages in parts and equipment to difficulties in fully staffing operations, 2022 was a year where many people were asked to do more, often with less resources.”
With supply chain issues continuing to cause significant delays, many of the larger capital purchases are needing to be ordered months (sometimes years) ahead of their expected delivery. For 2023, Special Areas continues to focus on protecting municipal infrastructure investments while delivering critical services and programs to ratepayers.
In January, local road committees will be reviewing the proposed 2023 road program and providing feedback for the spring meeting of Advisory Council. Enforcement will continue to be a top priority in 2023, especially related to some of the renewable energy project developments in the region. The Board is looking at ways to make sure the right resources are deployed effectively, including collaborating with other enforcement agencies.
Work on the regional irrigation project with the MD of Acadia, Government of Alberta and the Canada Infrastructure Bank will be a key priority for the Board Office this year. This work is funded by all project partners and is expected to deliver important answers on how regional irrigation could be designed while reducing costs. This work, which builds on the feasibility work completed in 2022, is expected to take around 24 months to complete. Work on a proposed tax recovery land sale policy will continue early in the new year, and the Board continues to investigate ways to bring this policy forward in 2023.
As we move into 2023, here at Special Areas we are focusing on strengthening relationships with our urban neighbours while continuing to leverage regional partnerships. We are excited to get started on the next phase of the regional irrigation project and are committed to making this once-in-a-generation opportunity as affordable as possible for local producers,” said Christianson.
For more information on your upcoming local road committee meeting or to learn more about Advisory Council meetings, contact your local district office.
