Intermunicipal Plans
INTERMUNICIPAL PLANS
The Municipal Government Act (MGA) links service provision and land use planning: an Intermunicipal Collaboration Framework is not complete unless an Intermunicipal Development Plan has also been adopted by each municipality that shares a boundary with another municipality. Together, the documents act as a comprehensive strategy for municipalities to work together, be more efficient with their resources, and find opportunities to collaborate.
What is an Intermunicipal Collaboration Framework (ICF)?
An Intermunicipal Collaboration Framework (ICF) is a broad-based policy document created by two municipalities that share a boundary. The purpose of the framework is for the municipalities to plan and coordinate how they could efficiently provide services to their residents within intermunicipal areas. In April 2018, the Government of Alberta mandated that each municipality in the province prepare and adopt an ICF with every municipality with whom they share a boundary.
The specific purpose of an ICF, as set out in the MGA (Section 708.27):
- To provide for the integrated and strategic planning, delivery and funding of intermunicipal services
- To steward scarce resources efficiently in providing local services and
- To ensure municipalities contribute funding to services that benefit their residents.
What is an Intermunicipal Development Plan (IDP)?
An IDP is a broad-based policy document prepared and adopted by two adjacent municipalities. The purpose of the plan is for the municipalities to plan and coordinate future land use and development within the boundary area. In April of 2018, the Government of Alberta mandated that each municipality in the province prepare and adopt an IDP with every municipality with whom they share a boundary.
According to the MGA (Section 631), the IDP must address:
- The future land use within the area
- The manner of and the proposals for future development in the area
- The provision of transportation systems for the area, either generally or specifically
- The coordination of intermunicipal programs relating to the physical, social, and economic development of the area
- Environmental matters within the area, either generally or specifically, and
- Any other matter related to the physical, social, or economic development of the area that the councils consider necessary.
Regional Growth Management Strategy (2013)
The Regional Growth Management Strategy project coincides with the County Municipal Development Plan and Land Use Bylaw Review and will provide recommendations and strategy options for growth within the County. The purpose of the project is to guide the County’s future development in a manner that reflects the vision and aspirations of our residents, landowners, and stakeholders. The RGMS considered economic growth and environmental responsibilities while providing recommendations concerning development within the County of Vermilion River. The Executive Summary shown below outlines the key strategies for Growth in the County of Vermilion River.