The Village of Carbon is hosting an Open House on Tuesday, October 8, and the topic of discussion will be a Viability Review.
A Viability Review is a process that helps municipalities determine their ability to continue as a municipality or develop a plan that leads to viability. These reviews support communities to plan for long-term success.
The council has discussed the possibility of a Viability Review at the council table. It appeared on the agenda at its July 15 regular meeting, the topic came up after meeting with the auditors. The discussion was tabled at that meeting.
A Viability Review can be instigated by the council through passing a resolution. It can also be instigated by the Minster of Municipal Affairs or through a petition of electors. This must have the signatures of at least 30 per cent of the municipality’s population.
If a council passes a resolution, it must also have implemented the mitigation tools found in the capacity building toolkit and believe the municipality is in jeopardy of becoming, or is, no longer viable. The council request must also include a completed Municipal Sustainability Strategy Self-Assessment Questionnaire.
The topic was discussed at the Village’s August meeting. Mayor Trevor Cormier tells the Mail, the council declined to pass a resolution for a Viability Report for now. However, if the majority of residents express the desire to complete the review, they will proceed.
In preparation for the Open House, the village has released an information brief on its website explaining the process so residents can be informed.
It notes, “There is no absolute definition or formula for what makes a municipality viable, either in Alberta or in most other jurisdictions. However, in general, municipal viability concerns come down to the efficiency of resources and the effectiveness of local services and infrastructure.”
These reviews often take about 12-18 months and will review the municipality’s community, governance, administration, services, finances and the condition of its infrastructure.
At the conclusion of the review, a report will be completed.
“This document summarizes information collected from the municipality, residents, and the neighbouring municipality and provides a comparison of what may happen if the municipality votes to remain or dissolve. The report also includes recommendations that support sustainable governance should electors vote to remain. Reports are not meant to examine municipal council or administrative practices.”
Following the presentation of the report, Villagers are able to participate in a vote to determine whether the municipality should remain incorporated or if it should dissolve and become a hamlet of the county.
The Open House is on Tuesday, October 8, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Community Hall.
