Innovative Projects Light Up Communities - PWABC
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Manitoba Chapter
THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE PUBLIC WORKS
THE
ROADRUNNER
ASSOCIATION OF BRITISH COLUMBIA, THE ALBERTA
PUBLIC WORKS ASSOCIATION, THE SASKATCHEWAN
PUBLIC WORKS ASSOCIATION, THE MANITOBA
PUBLIC WORKS ASSOCIATION, AND THE ALBERTA
MUNICIPAL SUPERVISORS ASSOCIATION FALL 2019
Innovative
Projects Light Up
Communities
FIND OUT
WHAT’S
HAPPENING
ONLINE
Canada Post Mail Publications Agreement Number: 40609661
Published For:
The Public Works Association of British Columbia
20430 Fraser Highway
Langley, BC V3A 4G2
www.pwabc.ca
Editorial Advisor: Ashifa Dhanani TABLE OF CONTENTS
Tel: 604-880-8585
The Alberta Public Works Association
PO Box 2235
Didsbury, AB T0M 0W0
Up Front
Phone: 403-990-APWA • Fax: 888-812-7014
www.publicworks.ca
7 A Message from the Canadian Public Works Association
Editorial Advisor: Jeannette Austin
Tel: 403-990-2792 9 A Message from the British Columbia Public Works Association
11
The Saskatchewan Public Works Association
http://saskatchewan.cpwa.net A Message from the Alberta Public Works Association
Editorial Advisor: Andrew Stevenson
Tel: 306-244-8828 13
A Message from the Saskatchewan Public Works Association
The Manitoba Public Works Association
http://manitoba.cpwa.net 15
A Message from the Manitoba Public Works Association
Editorial Advisor: Steve Blayney
Tel: 204-509-7385 17
A Message from Alberta Municipal Supervisors’ Association
Alberta Municipal Supervisors Association
www.amsapw.ca
Editorial Advisor: Christine Heggart
Tel: 403-844-5678 In Every Issue
Published By:
Matrix Group Publishing Inc. 20 HR Report: Public Works Hiring Process: Removing the “Fear
309 Youville Street
Winnipeg, MB R2H 2S9 Factor” of Hiring the Right People for the Right Job
Toll Free: 866-999-1299
Toll Free Fax: 866-244-2544
www.matrixgroupinc.net
25 Legal Brief: Alberta’s New Labour Laws: An Overview of Changes
Canada Post Mail Publications Agreement Number: 40609661 Impacting the Construction Industry
President & CEO:
Jack Andress 28 What’s New?
Operations Manager:
Shoshana Weinberg 32 Special Report: The CPWA Board of Directors Annual Meeting in
sweinberg@matrixgroupinc.net
Publisher: Ottawa
Jessica Potter
Editor-in-Chief:
Shannon Savory
ssavory@matrixgroupinc.net
Community Highlights
Senior Editor: 35 South Regional Waterline – Project B: County of Northern Lights
Alexandra Kozub
akozub@matrixgroupinc.net
38 Morinville’s New Crown Jewel
Junior Editors
Jenna Collignon, Kaitlin Vitt 41 At What Cost? Is Getting There Faster Worth Someone’s Life?
Finance/Administration:
Lloyd Weinberg, Nathan Redekop
accounting@matrixgroupinc.net
42 Community Comes Together to Restore White Rock after
Director of Circulation & Distribution: Devastating Storm
Lloyd Weinberg
distribution@matrixgroupinc.net 44 Winnipeg’s First Large Diameter Microtunnelling Project
Sales Manager – Winnipeg:
Neil Gottfred
Sales Manager – Hamilton:
Jeff Cash
Tech Talk
Sales Team Leader: 47 The Benefits of Mobile LiDAR Methods
Andrew Lee
Matrix Group Inc. Account Executives: 49 Process Optimization: How to Get the Best Out of Your Treatment Plant
Albert Brydges, Bonnie Petrovsky, Brenda McPhee, Brian
MacIntyre, Cheryl Klassen, Colleen Bell, Frank Kenyeres, Jim
Hamilton, Julie Welsh, Kevin Harris, Mackenzie Carare, Marlyn
50 Sustainable Greenway Project gives Historical Corridor New Life
Beek, Renée Kent, Rob Gibson, Sandra Kirby, Tanina Di Piazza,
Tenisha Myke, Terri Erkelens 52 What’s the Right Budget for a Municipal Government Website?
Advertising Design:
James Robinson
Layout & Design:
Cody Chomiak
54 Index to Advertisers
©2019 Matrix Group Publishing Inc. All rights reserved.
Contents may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in
part, without the prior written consent of the publisher. Opinions
expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of Matrix Fall 2019 5
Group Publishing Inc.
UP FRONT
A Message from
the Canadian Public
Works Association
Manitoba Chapter
Board of Directors
PRESIDENT OF THE CPWA
I have been President of the Manitoba
Chapter twice and I thoroughly enjoyed the
Steve Blayney,
Winnipeg, MB
Retired
experience of working with the Board, as
PRESIDENT ELECT
Chris W. Hamel, P Eng., Vaughan, ON
President
well as other public works professionals in
PAST PRESIDENT
Andrew G. Stevenson, Saskatoon, SK
Manager
MEMBER
Martin LeBlanc, our province.
I
Shediac Cape, NB
Public Works Superintendent
MEMBER
Leon G. MacIsaac, CET., Channel-Port-Aux-Basques, NL have been both humbled and honoured to be the President of the Canadian Public
Town Manager
Works Association (CPWA) this past year. I have been President of the Manitoba
MEMBER Chapter twice and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience of working with the Board,
Patricia M. Podoborozny, CET., Sherwood Park, AB
CAO Town of Bruderheim as well as other public works professionals in our province. They were the ones who
MEMBER
inspired me to continue joining various committees and pursuing other challenges,
David Sparanese, such as participating in CPWA on the national level. I was quite happy to do that and
Victoria, BC
Senior Manager Public Works
expand my public works experiences across Canada.
Fortunately, I have been able to visit other chapters this year and have seen first-
MEMBER
M. Rylan Wadsworth, PMP, hand the similarities and differences from both coasts. Talking to the Directors from the
Montreal-Ouest, QC CPWA Board and hearing their concerns and how they are dealing with floods, fires, and
PW Director
other emergencies along with the everyday public works issues, has opened the door to
BOARD LIAISON
W. Gary Losier, P Eng., Quispamsis, NB
other solutions for dealing with the problems we all encounter.
Dir of Engineering and Works It is a great honour being President of this association. My role as President has given
STAFF LIAISON, APWA me the opportunity to enhance our association and with our advocacy in Ottawa it con-
Anne Jackson, Washington, DC tinues to bring the CPWA the respect that it deserves. While we are a part of APWA and
Director of Sustainability
I appreciate their assistance, we are also representing our country and should never lose
that perspective.
Membership The CPWA takes good public works people and makes them better. They provide the
All members of a CPWA chapter are services that so many of the public take for granted and come to expect on a daily basis
members of the American Public Works without considering the efforts and sacrifices it takes to have the streets cleaned after a
Association (APWA). As a member, you midnight storm, having the water and sewers flowing or any other public works responsi-
share common goals, challenges, and bilities.
solutions with other public works profes- Thank you for your commitment to your community.
sionals throughout North America. To
find out more on member benefits, go to Steve Blayney
www.apwa.net or www.cpwa.net. President
Canadian Public Works Association
Fall 2019 7UP FRONT
A Message from the
Public Works Association
of British Columbia
PWABC Executive All communities large and small
across our province participated
PRESIDENT DIRECTOR
Matthew Brown Meryl Ditchburn-Heinz,
Street Manager – Southern CET
Operations Roads Management
in this great opportunity for all of
City of Surrey Specialist
Surrey, BC Engineering & Public Works
T: 604-591-4847 Nanaimo, BC
us to showcase the importance of
E: mkrown@surrey.ca T: 250-758-5222, Ext. 5403
E: meryl.ditchburn@nanaimo.ca
PRESIDENT ELECT
Scott Lamont DIRECTOR
our profession.
Supervisor of Roads Brian Carter
District of Squamish Manager PW Operations
Squamish, BC City of Burnaby
F
T: 604-815-6862 Burnaby, BC
E: slamont@squamish.ca T: 604-297-4541
E: brian.carter@burnaby.ca
PAST PRESIDENT
Deryk Lee DIRECTOR or the first time in recent their ongoing leadership to ensure this
Manager Administrative Alexander memory, the vast majority of partnership is successful.
Services Christensen, AScT
City of Victoria Senior Project Technologist our public works crews across In preparation for the coming win-
Victoria, BC Municipal Infrastructure the province were spared ter, we encourage you to register for our
T: 250-361-0467 WSP
E: dlee@victoria.ca T: 250-469-7727 from severe spring flooding. upcoming Winter Maintenance train-
E: alexander.christensen@ This gave our teams the opportunity to ing opportunities. We are hosting the
TREASURER wsp.com
Chris Anderson focus on National Public Works Week training in two locations, one in Burnaby
Public Works Manager APWA COUNCIL OF (NPWW). All communities large and and one in Fernie. Both locations will be
City of West Kelowna CHAPTERS DELEGATE/
West Kelowna, BC CPWA DIRECTOR small across our province participated offering the APWA Winter Maintenance
T: 778-797-8842 David Sparanese, AScT, in this great opportunity for all of us to Supervisor Certificate and the Operators
E: chris.anderson@ CPWI 3
westkelownacity.ca Manager of Public Works showcase the importance of our profes- Certificate. On behalf of the board, we
District of Saanich sion. We look forward to seeing the high- sincerely thank the host cities for their
SECRETARY T: 250-475-5599
David Lundberg E: david.sparanese@ lights and we will host a feature in our facilities and their volunteer efforts.
Public Works Coach and saanich.ca winter edition. This is my last message as the President
Consultant
Vancouver, BC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Our second annual joint conference of PWABC. I’m truly excited about the
T: 778-957-4688 Ashifa Dhanani with the British Columbia Municipal future of our association. We have a strong
E: davelundberg@ Chapter Administrator
smallpausecoaching.com Public Works Association of Safety Association (BCMSA) will be board with a variety of skill sets that will
British Columbia hosted in Penticton and we are looking serve our members well. Our Executive
DIRECTOR 102 -211 Columbia Street
Pat Miller Vancouver, BC V6A 2R5 to build on the success from last year. I Director, Ashifa Dhanani, as always and
Director, Utility Services T: 604-880-8585 would like to personally thank the Pent- into the future, will be an excellent leader
Sun Peaks Utilities Co. Ltd. E: executivedirector@
Sun Peaks, BC pwabc.ca icton team, our board, the BCMSA team and resource for our members.
E: pmiller@sunpeaksresort.com W: www.pwabc.ca and all the volunteers for their dedication I feel honoured and proud to have
and hard work to make this Conference a served as President on your behalf.
You can learn more about the Public success. On behalf of our board, I would
Works Association of British Columbia like to sincerely thank our Executive Matthew K. Brown
on their website: www.pwabc.ca Director, Ashifa Dhanani, and BCMSA’s President
Executive Director, Mike Roberts, for Public Works Association of BC
Fall 2019 9UP FRONT
A Message from the
Alberta Public Works
Association
The APWA Alberta Chapter hosted the Western Canadian
APWA Executive Snow Conference in Edmonton, on June 4-6, 2019, for
PRESIDENT AND APWA DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL EVENTS the first time, and we had a great turn out!
I
COUNCIL OF CHAPTERS Joe Guido
DELEGATE City of Edmonton
Peter McDowell T: 780-721-6935
Transportation Supervisor E: joe.guido@edmonton.ca hope everyone was able to celebrate This award recognizes the APWA
Town of Okotoks
T: 403-938-8928 DIRECTOR OF SUSTAINABILITY National Public Works Week in Alberta Chapter for contributions made to
E: pmcdowell@okotoks.ca (TREASURER) some way. Thank you to all that positively impact our membership, profes-
Mike Haanen
PRESIDENT-ELECT Roads Operator III / City of Fort proclaimed NPWW in 2019. sion, and community. We also are hosting
Garry Webster Saskatchewan The APWA Alberta Chapter the Western Canada Chapter Dinner at
Operations Supervisor T: 780-992-1375
Town of Stony Plain E: mhaanen@fortsask.ca hosted the Western Canadian Snow the Mariener’s Game – should be a great
T: 780-983-2469 Conference in Edmonton, on June 4-6, evening!
E: gwebster@stonyplain.com DIRECTOR OF EMERGING
LEADERS 2019, for the first time, and we had a great Mark your calendars for October
PAST PRESIDENT AND CPWA Brittany Wolbeck turn out! Thank you to the conference 7-9, 2019 for our Annual Excellence
DIRECTOR Purchaser, Public Works Department
Patty Podoborozny City of Camrose committee who did a great job. The snow in Public Works Conference in Red
CAO Town of Bruderheim / Alberta T: 780-672-5513 Roadeo was a huge success despite the wet Deer! This year the theme is “Healthy
Chapter E: bwolbeck@camrose.ca
T: 780-796-3731 weather. Thank you to all who competed. Communities start with Public
E: patty.podoborozny@ NORTHERN ALBERTA IDEA The winners in the single axle plow Works.” This theme represents the
bruderheim.ca GROUP LEADER
Greg Zirk, P.Eng were: 1 st, Keith Bedford, Carmacks many facets of modern civilization that
DIRECTOR AT LARGE Town of Stony Plain Maintenance Services; 2nd, Paul Shave, grow out of the efforts put forth by
Dennis Tomuschat Director of Engineering and
Director, Public Works Operations / Parkland Water Services City of Fort Saskatchewan; and 3rd, John the public works professionals in our
Town of Bruderheim Commission Watson, City of Red Deer. The win- communities. As always there is a great
T: 780-717-7936 T: 780-963-2469
E: dennis.tomuschat@ E: g.zirk@stonyplain.com ners from the grader competition were: line-up of technical sessions, a Public
bruderheim.ca 1st, Jason Gamracy, Town of Vermillion; Works Admin Professional workshop,
PEACE COUNTRY IDEA GROUP
DIRECTOR, ALLIED MEMBERS LEADER 2nd, Bruce Classen, City of Edmonton; a fantastic tradeshow, and networking
Chris Dechkoff Rob Naugler and 3rd, Sonny Quigely, City of Fort opportunities.
Technical Manager / ACP Applied T: 780-532-7393
Products E: rnaugler@countygp.ab.ca Saskatchewan. A big thanks to Joe Guido We will have a full schedule of Public
T: 780-960-1690 and his awesome Roadeo Committee! Works Supervisor courses coming up this
E: cdeckhoff@acpapplied.com CENTRAL ALBERTA IDEA
GROUP LEADER It couldn’t have happened without fall and winter. See the website for details:
DIRECTOR OF IDEA GROUPS Frank Enes you. www.publicworks.ca.
Dean Berrecloth T: 403.478.8279
Town of Killam E: fenes@rockyview.ca We would also like to say thank you Thank you to the Board of Directors,
Public Works Superintendent to The City of Edmonton for allowing the our committee chairs and Executive
T: 780-385-3977 SOUTHERN ALBERTA IDEA
E: deanb@town.killam.ab.ca GROUP LEADER APWA Alberta Chapter to use their equip- Director for all their hard work and sup-
Graham White ment for the snow Roadeo! On that note, port. If you are interested in volunteering
DIRECTOR, OUTREACH E: gwhite@mdtaber.ab.ca
Greg Zirk, P.Eng. our 22nd annual Equipment Roadeo is on on a committee, please contact Jeannette
Town of Stony Plain EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & September 5-6, 2019, in Red Deer, so come Austin at admin@publicworks.ca and she
Director of Engineering and PUBLIC WORKS SUPERVISOR
Operations / Parkland Water Services PROGRAM REGISTRAR out, compete and show off your skills! will work with you to find the right fit.
Commission Jeannette Austin We are very honoured to be receiv-
T: 780-963-2469 T: 403-990-APWA (2792)
E: g.zirk@stonyplain.com F: 888-812-7014 ing the Presidents Award of Chapter Peter McDowell
E: admin@publicworks.ca Excellence at PWX in Seattle, September President
8-11, 2019. APWA Alberta Chapter
Fall 2019 11UP FRONT
A Message from the
Saskatchewan Public
Works Association
T
ime seems to go by very quick- Our Fall Workshop will be the APWA
SPWA Executive ly these days as summer is Winter Maintenance Supervisor, and
PRESIDENT/APWA DIRECTOR here already. Kids are out of Operator Certificate Programs. This will
COUNCIL OF CHAPTERS Eric Quail school and it is time to take a be held at the Saskatoon Inn on September
DELEGATE Roadways Manager
Dale Petrun Roadways and Operations vacation and enjoy some well- 19, 2019. Details are being finalized and
Business Process & Projects Support deserved time off. This year’s weather has information will be emailed out and will
Supervisor Saskatoon, SK
Roadways and Operations T: 306-975-2912 already proven to be very dramatic with also be added to our website. Reviews of
Support E: eric.quail@ drought then a month of rain in a week- these programs have been good, so mark
Saskatoon, SK saskatoon.ca
T: 306-975-8092 end and hot and cold extremes. Public the date in your calendar, just in time for
E. dale.petrun@ DIRECTOR - SMALL works professionals are attending to it all winter program preparation.
saskatoon.ca TOWN (14 The Roadrunner
UP FRONT
A Message from the
Manitoba Public Works
Association
Manitoba Chapter
W
Manitoba Chapter, CPWA, ell, 2019 has been fly- our residents the time to come and see
ing by and I’m sure I the new shop and see what projects are in
Executive can speak for lots of us store for the following seasons.
PRESIDENT CPWA PRESIDENT AND when I say, where did Last month we hosted our Spring Fling
Chad Buhlin DIRECTOR
T: 204-384-7754 Steve Blayney, GSC it go? So far this year Event and brought out some members to
E: publicworks@ T: 204-509-7385 we have been able to pack in a bunch of watch a baseball game at Shaw Park. Here
rmofmontcalm.com E: sblayney@shaw.ca
fun events. We kicked off our year with a we were treated to a great meal at Clay Oven
PRESIDENT ELECT DIRECTORS CPWA Manitoba Golf Tournament. We and we watched the Winnipeg Goldeyes
VACANT Mike Neill, CET
T: 204-471-5660 pulled off the event with an almost full destroy the Chicago Dogs 15-1. Thank you
PAST PRESIDENT E: mike.neill@gov.mb.ca roster and beautiful weather! Bridges Golf to the City of Winkler for filling up a whole
Jean-Luc Lambert,
P.Eng. Derrick Saedal Course north west of Winnipeg hosted us table. It’s always nice to see members enjoy-
T: 204-986-7087 T: 204-986-6400 again and treated us well. ing an evening out.
E: jeanlambert@winnipeg.ca E: dsaedal@winnipeg.ca
With a beautiful course and great food, We are currently working together to
SECRETARY Justin Taplin, EIT this event is always a good turn out for us. sell tickets for our Gift Card Raffle. We
Eduard Wiens T: 204-505-0855
T: 204-896-1209 E: taplin@sbcinc.ca We also managed to raise more money will be drawing for the great prizes on July
E: ewiens@kgsgroup.com to put into our scholarship funds. This is a 15, 2019 and will keep our eyes open to get
Kas Zurek, P.Eng.
TREASURER T: 204-986-2025 big incentive for our chapter, and we try to ready for the Grey Cup Raffle after we get
Bonnie Konzelman, P.Eng. E: kzurek@winnipeg.ca put as much of our fundraising efforts into back from our summer break.
T: 204-451-3795
E: bkonzelman@winnipeg.ca Mark Wiese that cause. It is important for us to give back After the break we are also working on
T: 204-233-1424 and allow people who are working through a couple Lunch and Learn Events to bring
APWA COUNCIL OF E: mwiese@mcasphalt.com
CHAPTERS DELEGATE school to be able to focus on their studies members together to learn about different
Craig Rowbotham, P.Eng. and not on having to feel the pressure of aspects of public works. From autonomous
T: 204-318-2051
E: c.rowbotham@ student debt. snow clearing vehicles to marijuana in the
kgsgroup.com National Public Works Week has come workplace, we are hoping to hit home with
and gone again, and I was able to attend some of the current trends and topics that
the City of Selkirk’s Open House on May are on the edge of public works today.
23, 2019, at their Public Works Yard. Finally, I would like to take the time to
They had lots of public works and fire thank my board for putting in the time and
department equipment on display and lots effort needed to get these great events and
Did you know that Manitoba of interactive stations for the kids to play
and learn. It was nice to also see the local
draws together. Even with our own careers
pushing and pulling us we still find the drive
is the longest serving of the Canadian
Weed District with a table talking about to get together and organize these great net-
chapters and has been providing a
everyday weeds and others that are inva- working events. Without them and the time
forum for practitioners since 1955! We sive species. that they commit none of these projects
actively support our membership, the We were hoping to have an event here would ever leave the table.
public and policy makers to collaborate in the RM of Montcalm as well, however
and maintain healthy communities with the timing of the flood waters this Chad Buhlin
throughout the province. year staff were preoccupied. We will still President
be holding an event in the fall to allow CPWA Manitoba Chapter
Fall 2019 15UP FRONT
A Message from the
Alberta Municipal
Supervisors Association
A
AMSA EXECUTIVE
PRESIDENT ZONE 2 s fall takes hold, I’d like to for members this fall called Procurement
Joe Duplessie Rick Green
Lac St. Anne County County of Stettler reflect on the summer con- Essentials for Municipal Managers and
T: 780-785-3411 T: 403-742-4441 struction season – one of Debriefing Obligations Under the Trade
E: jduplessie@lsac.ca E: rgreen@stettlercounty.ca
many challenges for munici- Agreements on November 12, 2019, in
VICE-PRESIDENT Erik Hansen palities in terms of weather. Edmonton. Register for this training on
Shaune Kovitch Clearwater County
Special Areas Board T: 403-845-4444 To the North, hot temperatures caused AMSA’s website at www.amsapw.ca.
T: 403-779-3733 E: ehansen@ fires and evacuations early in the con- As always, fall convention takes place
E: shaune.kovitch@ clearwatercounty.ca
specialareas.ab.ca struction season, which as we all know in Edmonton, November 13-15, 2019,
ZONE 3 also impacts municipal operations. The one week earlier than is typical. AMSA
SECRETARY Brian Anderson
Zach Mazure County of Wetaskiwin remainder of the province received more convention attendees review new leg-
Camrose County T: 780-361-6244 than their fair share of rain days, slowing islation and technologies and examine
T: 780-672-1008 E: banderson@
E: zmazure@county.camrose. county.wetaskiwin.ab.ca the progress on many road and bridge management strategies beneficial to both
ab.ca construction projects I am certain. Hope- seasoned public works professionals and
Travis Wierenga
TREASURER County of Barrhead fully the fall will bring with it some newcomers to the field. Highlights from
Brandon Maier T: 780-674-2619 weather conducive to completing sched- the fall convention include Todd Hirsch,
Lacombe County E: twierenga@
T: 403-782-6601 countybarrhead.ab.ca uled programs. from ATB Financial, returning to pro-
E: bmaier@lacombecounty. AMSA’s fall includes a Strategic vide an economic update to the group,
com ZONE 4
Jim Alexy Planning session with our 15 executive keynote speaker Nelson Scott will delve
PAST PRESIDENT Birch Hills County members, to provide a framework for into hiring strategies, and members will
Bill Cade T: 780-694-3793
Lacombe County E: jima@birchhillscounty.com continued progress of our association. have the opportunity to tour the Weldco-
T: 403-782-8963 Over the last decade, AMSA’s executive Beales Manufacturing facility on day two.
E: bcade@lacombecounty.com Leonard Van Oort
County of Northern Lights have followed in the footsteps of their I hope you are able to join us for another
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR T: 780-836-3348 predecessors to enhance and grow our great fall convention!
Christine Heggart E: vanoortl@
T: 403-845-4444 countynorthernlights.com group of public works leaders. I look for-
E: cheggart@amsapw.ca ward to our discussion and some fresh Joe Duplessie
ZONE 5
AMSA DIRECTORS Darby Dietz ideas to continue our evolution for future AMSA President
Beaver County sustainability of the organization. General Manager of Infrastructure and
ZONE 1 T: 780-663-3730
Craig Pittman E: ddietz@beaver.ab.ca AMSA will also be hosting another Planning
MD of Taber professional development opportunity Lac St. Anne County
T: 403-223-3541 Miles Lowe
E: cpittman@mdtaber.ab.ca Lamont County
T: 780-895-2233
Devon Thiele E: miles.l@lamontcounty.ca
Lethbridge County AMSA’s mission is to unite our members towards individual development, improved
T: 403-328-5525
E: dthiele@lethcounty.ca service to their municipality and the public and to improve the members’ knowledge
related to their role in public works operations. Our association provides a forum for
exchange, both online and in person at conventions, and the development of innovative
Learn more about AMSA on their website:
www.amsapw.ca ideas, as well as offers various professional development opportunities.
Fall 2019 17IN EVERY ISSUE • HR Report
Public Works Hiring Process:
Removing the “Fear Factor”
of Hiring the Right People
for the Right Job
I
By Scott Lamont, District of Squamish (if successful) to the next phase and ultimately
to the final hiring process.
t has always been a challenge every We begin with arriving to the job interview: Next is the physical / mental testing,
year to hire quality, dedicated staff • Did they arrive in time? which is how you analyze applicants in a
for entry level labour positions. • Did they park in the directed area? public works work zone. In each test, we are
From interests from the street to • Did they bring the requested certification looking at:
inter department employees, how do and documents? • Safety;
we ensure that we hire the best possible If they missed any of these steps it gives you • Ability to follow direction;
employee to serve the public works sector a good idea of what their ability is to follow • Willingness to learn;
in an honest, fair and transparent method? oral and written instructions and procedures. • Physical stamina; and
First, we need to analyze the challenges. We In the interview you should be looking at • Attitude.
first post internally, though sometimes this may key measurements creating questions regarding: Please consider having a first aid attendant
cause issues such as inside staff wanting to “take • Do they have the required training, educa- onsite in case of emergencies and to correct
a break.” What they do not realize is all the tion, and experience? form to prevent injury.
intensive labour, training, and physical strain »» Grade 12 or equivalent;
that a labourer endures throughout the season. »» Possession of a valid class 5 BC Driver’s SANDBAG TEST
Often enough we see applicants come License; History and job-related task
in with no or very limited labour experience »» Certified Traffic Control Person; 1. Explain why operations would have to fill
which causes low efficiencies, internal job dis- »» WHMIS; and sandbags.
tribution, and potential workplace injuries. »» Two years’ experience in labouring work. 2. Explain the history and events where opera-
We then post externally, where it is • Do they have the knowledge, skills, and tions had to fill sandbags.
essential to pay further attention to your Job abilities? 3. Explain how this test also goes over other
Descriptions. Do they need to be updated? Are »» Basic knowledge of public works; areas in the operational workplace (i.e.,
you looking for a general labour that can be »» What is it that public works does? How picking up and dumping lime and fertil-
cross trained in different departments? What is public works funded? izer, placing grass seed into the hopper,
kind of labour experience is necessary? »» Safety awareness; and and building dam sac walls).
Or are you looking for direct labour experi- »» Work ethics.
ence: professional landscaping companies, road • Utilize Behavioral Based questions to analyze Orientation
and utility construction, previous public work their values, morals, ethics and behaviors to 1. Detail directions on how the test is com-
experience? If you lean to the prior, you may see if they match your District Core values. pleted:
have the similar fate as with internal applicants. As you weigh the answers, you can measure • They will have 80 minutes to do six rota-
You need to be clear on the expectations of the the responses creating a fair and transparent tions of filling, hauling, placing and dump-
posting. matrix. This will help transition the applicant ing 10 sandbags.
20 The RoadrunnerIN EVERY ISSUE • HR Report
• Each rotation will consist of the following: 3. Be aware of their other co-workers when • PPE provided and instructed use; and
»» Fill 10 sandbags with four shovel scoops shoveling. • Operational tail gate:
of sand; 4. If there are any signs that they may endan- »» Location;
»» Carry them five metres and place them ger themselves, ask them to stop. This »» Public and co-worker safety; and
onto a wooden pallet; includes, but are not limited to, feeling »» Communication between applicants
»» Proceed to carry the 10 sandbags anoth- faint, dizzy, breathing problems and/or any and leads.
er five metres to an orange spray paint- symptoms that the first aid attendant may
ed line; and deem unsafe. WASTEWATER COLLECTIONS
»» Proceed back to the center sand pile to TEST
dump the sand and begin the rotation Conclusion This test covers the wastewater collec-
again. 1. Explain the importance of this test. tions daily routine. It covers machinery to
2. Explain that if their bags are not full to 2. Have fun and good luck. manhole inspections. It is critical that appli-
the required level (four scoops), or if they cants can follow step by step instructions
dump sand, they will have to begin again. WEED EAT TEST to ensure proper operation and safety. We
3. Explain if they do not follow the directions Orientation are grading physical attributes and listening
their bags will not be counted until they To operate a gas powered weed eater for skills.
begin again at the point they did not follow two full tanks. They will be directed to the Simulation Sewer Blockage
directions. area that they will weed eat. They will be Safety:
monitored for the following: • PPE provided and instructed use.
Safety • Level of operating efficiency; • Safe work procedure reviewed.
1. Explain that this is not a race. They are • Safety; • Operational tail gate:
expected to finish the task, but we do not • Directions; and »» Location;
want to see anyone hurt. • Attitude. »» Public and co-worker safety;
2. Explain that they are expected to lift and Safety »» Communication between applicants
carry with proper lifting technique. • Safe work procedure reviewed; and leads.
Fall 2019 21IN EVERY ISSUE • HR Report
Operations: Observations: Safety and location:
• Monitor pressure levels; »» Correct bucket; • Explain the hazards of area solids
• Pulling hose back away from feet »» Near to line; room;
when blockage is released to ensure »» Correct garbage; • Show where garbage bins are;
you are out of spillage area and trip- »» Safety gear worn; and • Safety in the solids room; and
ping area; »» Appropriate disposal of disposables. • Instructions test for listening:
• Have clean up material onsite in case of »» Remove bolts/nuts from the TWAS
spillage; Mechanical aptitude filled bin;
• Pulling hose out, still high pressure, put- Process: »» Clean and place in the “clean” bin;
ting away properly; and • Give out the “test;” and
• Disinfect area. • Set up across from lab; and »» Personal safety equipment and use.
• Questions are basic. Observations:
Wastewater Treatment Materials: • Safety gear worn;
Plant rags • Have pens available; and • Comfort level with the TWAS;
Process: • Question sheets. • Understanding the written instruction;
• Prepare the area where rags will be Observations: and
picked from; • Handwriting; • Appropriate disposal of disposables.
• Tape off unsafe areas, as well as no entry • Correctness;
points; and • Body language; and TWAS tent
• Have safety supplies available. • Clean up of their stuff. Material:
Materials: • Hose from grit room; and
• Two buckets; and Bolts • H2S tester.
• Collection of “rags” in a confined area. Process: Safety and location:
Safety and location: • Fill one tray with thickened waste acti- • Explain the hazards of area, i.e. H2S
• Explain the hazards of area grit and old vated sludge (TWAS) and place nuts/bolts (prior);
side aeration; in the tray; • Safety regarding the TWAS tent; and
• Show where garbage bins are; and • Have another clean tray next to it. Have • Personal safety equipment.
• Safety in the grit room. all the supplies necessary accessible; Instructions test for listening:
Instructions test for listening: • One person at a time. Have others out • Test area for H2S;
• Fill (right) bucket to line; of view. • Hose out the correct area; and
• Take bucket, empty in the far bin in the Material: • Personal safety equipment.
grit room; and • Two bins; and Observations:
• Personal safety equipment and use. • TWAS and a little poly. • Stays out of the tent;
• Comfort level;
• Proper safety gear worn;
• Is it kept close to fresh air; and
• Appropriate disposal of disposables.
All tests will be marked the same way as
the interview questions, in which you can
utilize in the matrix.
Now it is time for the review matrix.
One of the biggest benefits is utilizing your
staff in assisting with the testing. They can
give essential insight on the applicant’s work
ethic, attitude, and abilities. Engaging your
employees in this process improves team
moral and employee engagement.
By utilizing this method, it gives both the
applicant and the employer a better understand-
ing of what it takes to be a public works employ-
ee, so we have the right people on the job. w
Scott Lamont is the Operations Supervisor
for the District of Squamish.
22 The RoadrunnerFall 2019 23
24 The Roadrunner
IN EVERY ISSUE • Legal Brief
Alberta’s New Labour Laws: An Overview
of Changes Impacting the Construction Industry
By Dan Bokenfohr,
O
McLennan Ross
n July 3rd, Bill 2 (An Act to
Make Alberta Open for Busi-
ness) passed its third reading in
the Alberta legislature. When it
receives Royal Assent and offi-
cially becomes law, Bill 2 will bring about
important changes to the Alberta Employment
Standards Code and Labour Relations Code.
In large part, the current UCP Govern-
ment tabled Bill 2 for the purpose of undoing
certain changes that had been introduced by
the previous NDP government in 2017. In
particular, the Alberta construction industry
should take note of the following changes
that will be implemented through Bill 2.
Employment Standards Code
Alberta employers will once again be
permitted to enter into overtime agreements
with their employees to allow for overtime generally, but a special minimum wage if the employee worked on the same day
hours to be banked and then taken off at a ($13 per hour) has been created for stu- of the week as the holiday in at least five
later date on an hour-for-hour basis. This is dents under the age of 18. This “job of the nine weeks preceding the holiday.
a significant change from the overtime rules creation student wage” came into effect Thus, moving forward, the pay owed to
that had been in place since 2018, which on June 26, 2019 and applies to most employees for holidays will be calculated
required employers to provide 1.5 hours off students under the age of 18 (i.e. those as follows:
for each hour of overtime banked. This is attending high school, post-secondary or • When eligible employees are given off a
a particularly positive change for construc- vocational institutions). It applies to the holiday that is a normal workday, they
tion employers, where overtime banking has first 28 hours per week worked by such are entitled to their average daily wage (5
long been a popular means of addressing the students while school is in session and to per cent of their wages, vacation pay, and
seasonal and weather-dependent nature of all their hours of work when school is on general holiday pay earned in the four
the industry. break (e.g. summer). weeks immediately preceding a general
The requirements for overtime agree- Effective September 1, 2019, general holiday).
ments will otherwise remain unchanged. holiday pay in Alberta will revert to the • When eligible employees work a holi-
Overtime may still be banked for up to model in place prior to 2018. Employees day that is a normal workday, they are
six months (or longer if under a collective who have not worked at least 30 work- entitled to either: a) their average daily
agreement) before it must be taken or paid. days for their employer in the 12 months wage plus 1.5 times their wage rate for
If banked overtime is not taken off, it must preceding a holiday will not be eligible each hour of work; or b) their wage rate
still be paid out at 1.5 times an employee’s for holiday pay. Also, employees’ enti- for each hour of work on that day plus
normal hourly rate of pay. As a transitional tlement to holiday pay will once again one day’s holiday (paid at their average
provision, any overtime banked but not depend on whether the holiday falls on daily wage), given no later than their
taken off and paid before September 1, a regular workday. When an employee next annual vacation.
2019, must be provided at 1.5 hours off for works an irregular schedule for which it • When eligible employees work a holiday
each hour of overtime worked. is uncertain whether the holiday falls on that is not a normal workday, they are
Alberta’s minimum wage (currently a normal workday for that employee, the entitled to 1.5 times their wage rate for
$15 per hour) will continue to apply employee will be entitled to holiday pay each hour of work.
Fall 2019 25IN EVERY ISSUE • Legal Brief
• When ineligible employees work a holi- to obtain bargaining rights through cer- Such card-based applications were par-
day that is not a normal workday, they tification applications before the Alberta ticularly problematic in the construction
are entitled to their regular wage, subject Labour Relations Board. Unions will no industry, where it is common for individuals
to the ordinary rules governing overtime. longer be able to obtain automatic “card- to be members of multiple unions for the
• When employees are not required to work based” bargaining certificates by simply purpose of maximizing their job opportuni-
on a holiday that is not a normal work- presenting the board with evidence that ties. Union membership is not necessarily an
day, they are entitled to no holiday pay. more than 65 per cent of the employees in accurate indicator of employee support for
the proposed bargaining unit are members the union becoming their exclusive bargain-
Labour Relations Code in good standing of the union or have ing agent with respect to an employer.
Secret ballot voting has been reinstated applied for union membership in the last This risk of unions obtaining bargain-
as a mandatory requirement for unions six months. ing rights based upon equivocal evidence of
employee support has now been eliminated,
as votes will be mandatory in every case (in
the absence of unfair labour practices by the
employer) and majority support will still be
required to carry any vote. The time allowed
for unions to sign up new members for cer-
tification applications has also been reduced
to 90 days from six months. These rules will
apply to all certification applications filed
after May 27, 2019.
The Alberta minister of labour will also
be establishing a program to provide sup-
port and assistance to individual employees
with respect to matters under the Labour
Relations Code. The provision allowing for
this comes into force on October 1, 2019,
and the details of the program have yet to
be determined. However, the purpose of
the program will be to help employees bet-
ter understand and exercise their rights in
respect to both employers and unions.
Future legislative changes
In its speech from the throne this spring,
the Alberta government indicated that it
intends to make further labour and employ-
ment law changes. It also signaled that one
such change will be revisiting the broad
power the board has had since 2017 to order
certification without an employee vote in
cases of employer unfair labour practices.
While it is likely that this broad remedial
power will be curtailed or removed altogeth-
er from the Labour Relations Code, Alber-
tans will have to wait until this fall to see
exactly what additional labour law changes
will come to fruition. w
Dan Bokenfohr is a litigator and advisor
to union and non-union employers on labour,
employment, workers’ compensation, occupa-
tional health and safety and administrative
law issues.
26 The RoadrunnerFall 2019 27
IN EVERY ISSUE • What’s New?
Manitoba Chapter
Upcoming Events APWA, Alberta Chapter AMSA Professional Development Public Works Administrative
The Alberta Public Works 2019 Excellence in Public Procurement Essentials for Professional-Core Skills and
Association Equipment Roadeo Works Conference & Municipal Managers and PW Overview
Red Deer, Alberta Tradeshow Debriefing Obligations Calgary, Alberta
September 5-6, 2019 Red Deer, Alberta Under the Trade Agreements December 16-17, 2019
October 7-9, 2019 Edmonton, Alberta
2019 PWX – Public Works November 12, 2019 Public Works Supervisor
Expo Public Works Supervisor Level 2 Course
Seattle, Washington Level 1 Course AMSA Fall 2019 Convention Northern Alberta, Location
September 8-11, 2019 Lethbridge, Alberta Edmonton, Alberta TBA
October 15-18, 2019 November 13-15, 2019 January 7-10, 2020
2019 PWABC-BCMSA Joint
Conference and Tradeshow Public Works Supervisor Public Works Supervisor Public Works Administrative
Penticton, British Columbia Level 3 Course Level 2 Course Professionals Workshop
September 15-18, 2019 Grande Prairie, Alberta Lethbridge, Alberta Canmore, Alberta
November 5-8, 2019 November 25-28, 2019 February 5-6, 2020
Saskatchewan Chapter:
Fall Workshop Public Works Supervisor SPWA 61st Annual
APWA Winter Maintenance Level 1 Course Conference and PWville
Certificate Program Northern Alberta, Location Regina, SK
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan TBA February 25-27, 2020
September 19, 2019 December 3-6, 2019
Saskatchewan Public Works Association NPWW Workshop
This year’s workshop was held in Regina, SK, on May 19-25, 2019. The theme this year was “It Starts Here,” which represents the many facets
of modern civilization that grow out of the efforts put forth by the public works professionals across North America.
WCB Sask presentation on injury rates and fatalities. ATAP Session on incident investigation and corrective action.
28 The RoadrunnerIN EVERY ISSUE • What’s New?
SPWA/APWA Winter Maintenance Certificate
APWA Winter Maintenance Supervisor (WMS) Certificate
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM $250-Members $300-Non Members
Price includes breakfast, coffee, lunch and materials
This course provides a well-rounded overview of all aspects of snow and ice control for
individuals charged with supervising their winter maintenance operations. The goals are
for participants to:
• Expand their knowledge of planning and preparation
• Increase their understanding of winter weather and how it affects operations
• Identify how to better use traditional and alternative chemicals
• Consider what equipment is available and how to maintain it
• Expand understanding of snow & ice control techniques
• Appreciate the environmental impacts of winter maintenance policies
Who should attend?
• Supervisors with winter maintenance responsibilities
• Operators who aspire to be supervisors
• Operators who want a greater understanding of winter maintenance processes
APWA Winter Maintenance Operator Certificate
9:00 AM - 2:00 PM $200-Members $250-Non Members
Price includes morning coffee, lunch and materials
• Preparations based on weather forecasts
• Salt and sand applications, rates of application and speeds
• Pre trips on plow equipment and loaders
• Best practices to remove snow regionally i.e. roundabouts, driveways, bike lanes
• Public education, outreach and social media i.e. responsibility to clear sidewalks
• Liquid salt brine, application and precautions, pros and cons
• Salt management, storing and handling
• Snow plowing, preparation and equipment, precautions and hazards
• Risk assessments for plowing, salting, sanding and brine applications
• Use of RWIS (Road Weather Information Systems) in larger municipality
• Use of Traffic Camera, CCTV, SCADA, AWL, and communication devices
• Best practices for training new staff
Who should attend?
• All levels of winter maintenance field staff
• Public works professionals new to winter maintenance
• Public works professionals looking to hear new ideas/gain perspectives
APWA Alberta Western Canada Snow Conference
In June, the Western Canada Snow Conference was held at the Edmonton Expo Centre and the Sutton Place Hotel Edmonton. This year’s
show focused on the theme of #SnowfightersUnite and had been specifically designed for your crew of #snowfighters. The conference itself was
tailor-made for the men and women who fearlessly brave our Canadian winter weather conditions.
Grader Winner Truck Plow
of the Snow Winner of the
Plow Roadeo Snow Plow
Awards Roadeo Awards
Jason Gamracy Keith Bedford
came out on top in came out on top
the Grader compe- in the Truck Plot
tition. competition.
Fall 2019 29IN EVERY ISSUE • What’s New?
Earlier this Saskatchewan Public Works
spring AMSA Association NPWW Proclamations
members met in Thank you to all the Saskatchewan commu-
Edmonton for nities who recognized the many contributions
the AMSA Spring of Public Works professionals who work in
Convention. the public interest to build, manage and oper-
Don’t miss out ate the essential infrastructure and services of
on the next our communities, and proclaimed May 19-25,
event, which is 2019 as National Public Works Week! We
coming up in appreciate your acknowledgement, advocacy,
November! and education of our citizens and industry.
Below is the list of Saskatchewan com-
munities that had 2019 NPWW proclama-
tions signed, including the province. Every
proclamation the SPWA received entered
the municipality into a draw for one free
registration to each of our quarterly events.
The winning communities are highlighted
along with the event they are entitled to
attend on our behalf.
1. City of Humboldt, SK
2. City of Meadow Lake, SK
3. City of Melfort, SK
4. City of Melville, SK
5. City of Moose Jaw, SK
6. City of North Battleford, SK
7. City of Prince Albert, SK
8. City of Regina, SK
9. City of Saskatoon, SK
10. City of Swift Current, SK
11. City of Warman, SK - Fall Workshop
‘APWA Winter Maintenance Certificate’
- September 19, 2019 at the Saskatoon
Inn
12. RM of Corman Park, SK
13. RM of Sherwood, SK
14. Town of Battleford, SK - 61st Annual
SPWA Conference and PWville - February
25 - 27, 2020 at the Delta Regina
15. Town of Kindersley, SK
16. Town of Moosomin, SK
17. Town of Oxbow, SK - Equipment
Roadeo & Golf Tournament - June 21,
2019 at Yara Centre/Hillcrest GC in
Moose Jaw
18. Town of Shaunavon, SK
19. Town of Southey, SK
20. Village of Debden, SK
21. Village of Viscount, SK
22. Town of Rosetown, SK
23. Town of Nipawin, SK - NPWW
Workshop - May 21, 2020 location TBA
24. Province of Saskatchewan
30 The RoadrunnerSPECIAL REPORT
The CPWA Board of Directors
Annual Meeting in Ottawa
By Anne Jackson, American
Public Works Association
CPWA Board of Directors Meeting
Each year, the CPWA Board of
Directors meets in Ottawa, along with
APWA / CPWA Executive Director
Scott Grayson and APWA Director of
Sustainability and Canadian Government
Affairs Anne Jackson, to discuss policy and
advocacy issues, and to build relationships
with other stakeholder associations, govern-
ment departments and Parliamentarians.
This year’s meeting was held on Monday
April 29 and Tuesday April 30, 2019.
Topics of discussion ranged from current
events in Ottawa to the results of CPWA’s
recent Infrastructure Investment and
Government Programs Survey.
The CPWA Board received an update The CPWA Board of Directors with Parliament in the background, left to right: Rylan Wadsworth, Quebec
Chapter; CPWA President Steve Blayney, Manitoba Chapter; CPWA President-Elect Chris Hamel, Ontario
about a project CPWA is partnering on with
Chapter; Anne Jackson, APWA Director of Sustainability and Canadian Government Affairs; Patty
the Canadian Network of Asset Managers Podoborozny, Alberta Chapter; Scott Grayson, APWA/CPWA Executive Director; Scott Lamont, British
(CNAM) and several other national asso- Columbia Chapter; CPWA Past President Andrew Stevenson, Saskatchewan Chapter; Jennifer Norris,
ciations to develop an Asset Management Newfoundland-Labrador Chapter; Mike Walker, Atlantic Provinces Chapter.
Competency Framework for Canadian
Communities. The framework will help • Emergency Management / Preparedness Meeting with the Federation of
municipalities formally capture the asset • Engineering and Technology Canadian Municipalities
management (AM) skills, behaviors, and • Transportation FCM and CPWA have long been part-
knowledge needed across their organiza- • Utilities and Public Rights-of-Way ners in advocating for infrastructure invest-
tion, and will enable them to measure, • Water / Environmental Management ment as an economic driver for the nation
assess, and put training plans in place to Outside of its business meeting, the and several FCM staff – Matt Gemmel,
help staff fill the gaps. The project is part of CPWA Board of Directors held meetings Manager of Policy & Research; Megan
the Federation of Canadian Municipalities with two partner associations, FCM and Stanley, Government Relations Advisor;
(FCM) Municipal Asset Management the Transportation Association of Canada Sara Jane O’Neill, Policy Advisor; and Jean
Program (MAMP), which is funded by the (TAC); met with officials from two federal Lawson, Policy Officer – joined the CPWA
Government of Canada. departments, Public Safety Canada (PS) and Board for a discussion about shared priorities.
As part of its ongoing work to develop Indigenous Services Canada (ISC); and met FCM shared that it is focused on a stron-
and refine CPWA’s Public Policy Priorities with three Parliamentarians, the Honourable ger direct federal-municipal relationship
and annual Pre-Budget submission to the Bernadette Jordan, P.C., M.P. (South and that it welcomed the one-time transfer,
House of Commons Standing Committee Shore-St. Margarets), Minister of Rural announced in Budget 2019, of $2.2 bil-
on Finance, the CPWA Board agreed to Economic Development, Marco Mendicino, lion through the federal Gas Tax Fund to
establish and monitor the following focus M.P. (Eglinton-Lawrence), Parliamentary address short-term priorities in municipali-
areas: Secretary to the Minister of Infrastructure ties and First Nations, effectively doubling
• Asset Management and Communities, and Sheri Benson, M.P. the Government’s commitment to munici-
• Climate, Resilience and Adaptation (Saskatoon West), NDP Deputy Leader. palities in 2018-19.
32 The RoadrunnerSPECIAL REPORT
This increases the overall cost of the
Investing in Canada Plan to approximately
$190 billion. Budget 2019 also included
The framework will help municipalities formally
additional funding for two FCM programs:
The Municipal Asset Management Program
capture the asset management (AM) skills, behaviors,
and The Green Municipal Fund. and knowledge needed across their organization, and
will enable them to measure, assess, and put training
FCM continues to focus on disaster
mitigation, including Disaster Financial
Assistance Arrangements (DFAA) eligibility
criteria (which are different in every prov-
plans in place to help staff fill the gaps.
ince), adaptation planning, risk assessments,
and policies around natural infrastructure.
FCM is advocating for the expansion of the (TAC’s other members are other levels of Meetings with Members of
Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund governments, private sector companies, aca- Parliament
(DMAF), which has a high threshold but demic institutions, and other associations). Andrew Stevenson, Rylan Wadsworth
is not limited to flooding and under which Of those, about 160 are small (though many and Jennifer Norris met with Sheri
natural infrastructure is eligible. large municipalities / regions have signifi- Benson, M.P. (Saskatoon West), NDP
Other areas of mutual interest are shared cant rural components) and their needs are Deputy Leader, to discuss CPWA’s focus
mobility, including the impact of automated unique, such as speed management. on emergency management and prepared-
vehicles on public transit and the estab- ness, disaster mitigation, and new trans-
lishment of a permanent Public Transit Meetings with Public Safety Canada portation technologies such as autono-
Infrastructure Fund, as well as municipal and Indigenous Services Canada mous vehicles.
rights of way, particularly issues around con- The CPWA Board of Directors met Meetings like these with Members of
trol and compensation. with David Hurl, Director of Policy and Parliament provide the occasion to intro-
Parliamentary Affairs to the Minister of duce elected officials to public works and
Meeting with the Transportation Public Safety, and Elizabeth Cheesbrough, to the APWA members from both the
Association of Canada Senior Policy Advisor at Public Safety public and private sectors who plan and
The CPWA Board of Directors met with Canada, to discuss the role of public works manage the roads and bridges, water and
Sarah Wells, TAC Executive Director, and as first responders who are also responsible wastewater treatment facilities, traffic sig-
Geoff Noxon, TAC Director of Technical for critical infrastructure, and to advocate nals and lighting systems, parks and city
Programs, to discuss shared transportation for public works being engaged with other buildings, snow removal, sanitation and
priorities, particularly around Connected parties in pre-planning exercises, during an public transit services representing the
and Automated Vehicles (CAV) and the emergency, and post-emergency. Several backbone of Canadian communities. It
unique needs of small municipalities. TAC, Public Safety Canada programs were dis- is also an opportunity to emphasize that
which celebrated its centennial in 2014, cussed, including the National Disaster public works professionals are an essential
focuses on road and highway infrastructure Mitigation Program (NDMP), and the part of first responder teams when disas-
and urban transportation and many APWA CPWA Board emphasized that it can help ters strike.
members are also members of TAC. promote Government programs. The Honourable Bernadette Jordan,
In discussing the work of its CAV Task CPWA Board members Patty P.C., M.P. (South Shore-St. Margarets),
Force, TAC noted the distinction between Podoborozny and Andrew Stevenson met was appointed to the newly created posi-
connected and automated vehicles and that with Joseph Wabegijig, Policy Advisor to tion of Minister of Rural Economic
the task force’s focus is currently on con- the Minister of Indigenous Services, to Development in January 2019 with the
nected vehicles and the primary commu- discuss opportunities for collaboration overarching goal to champion middle-
nications technologies to support them. It and how training programs developed class job creation, economic opportunity
was noted that the Council of Ministers for public works professionals can ben- and quality of life in rural Canada. Her
and Deputy Ministers responsible for efit First Nations. The discussion allowed mandate includes leading the delivery of
Transportation and Highway Safety is CPWA to show that APWA’s resources rural infrastructure and broadband pro-
studying CAV, and that Transport Canada have broad applicability to anyone who gramming, funding and commitments and
is supporting initiatives to advance CAV builds, operates and maintains pub- she works closely with the Honourable
technologies through research, testing, and lic infrastructure, and to emphasize that François-Philippe Champagne, P.C., M.P.
development. municipal public works departments, par- (Saint-Maurice-Champlain), Minister of
TAC also highlighted its Small ticularly those of small and rural commu- Infrastructure and Communities.
Municipalities Task Force. Of TAC’s 500 nities share many of the same challenges CPWA Board members Steve Blayney,
corporate members, 200 are municipalities that face First Nations. Chris Hamel, and Patty Podoborozny
Fall 2019 33You can also read
