Title
Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta 2025 Wildfire Mitigation Strategy Project
Proposed Motions
1. That Council direct administration to complete the Wildfire Mitigation Strategy project, as presented.
2. That Council approve the addition of $150,000 for a one-year Wildfire Mitigation Strategy Project to be funded from Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta FireSmart Grant, as presented.
Body
Administration Recommendation
Administration supports the proposed motion.
Purpose
Upon Council's approval, an operating project will be established from February 11, 2025 to December 31, 2025 to support Parkland County’s development of a county-wide wildfire hazard and risk assessment and wildfire mitigation strategy.
Summary
Administration was successful in the application for the FRIAA FireSmart Grant funding in the amount of $150,000 over one year as directed by Council September 24, 2024.
Historical Information:
Council at the September 24, 2024 regular meeting of Council directed administration to submit to the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta (FRIAA) two applications for grant funding in the amount of $250,000.00 for the FireSmart program. Parkland County has received one of the grants and funding in the amount of $150,000.00 in grant funding over a one-year period for the Wildfire Mitigation Strategy project.
Strategic Plan/Policy/Legal/Staff Implications:
Complete Communities: recognize the diversity of Parkland County's communities, while fostering a united and shared vision for Parkland as a whole.
Respected Environment and Agriculture: recognize Parkland County's biodiversity and unique natural beauty, the land's value for agricultural purposes, and ensuring our commitment to sustainable agricultural and environmental practices.
Responsible Leadership: maintain the public's trust through transparent and fair decision-making, superior service delivery, and effective engagement.
Grant Funding: supports risk reduction through fire safety education and public participation in preparing for wildfire events.
Financial Impact:
Cost: $150,000.00 over a one-year operating period.
As per the grant agreement, Parkland County will receive three payments of $50,000 following the completion of each reporting period.
Reporting Period 1: June 30, 2025 - $50,000
Reporting Period 2: October 31, 2025 - $50,000
Reporting Period 3: December 31, 2025 - $50,000
Source of Funding: Grant Funding over a one-year payment schedule