HomeMy WebLinkAbout2008 Citizens ReportDistrict of Maple Ridge • 11995 Haney Place, Maple Ridge, BC V2X 6A9
Tel: 604-463-5221 • Fax: 604-467-7329 • www.mapleridge.ca
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District of Maple Ridge
British Columbia, Canada
District of Maple Ridge
British Columbia, Canada
2008 Citizens Report
Mayor Ernie Daykin
edaykin@mapleridge.ca
• Council Workshops on the first and third Monday of each month at 9:00 am.
• Committee of the Whole on the first and third Monday of each month at 1:00 pm.
• Council meetings on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:00 pm.
• Public hearings on the third Tuesday of each month at 7:00 pm.
• For more information on public hearings, special Council sessions, and civic events, check our website.
Councillor Al Hogarth
ahogarth@mapleridge.ca
Councillor Craig Speirs
cspeirs@mapleridge.ca
Councillor Cheryl Ashlie
cashlie@mapleridge.ca
Councillor Judy Dueck
jdueck@mapleridge.ca
Councillor Michael Morden
mmorden@mapleridge.ca
Councillor Linda King
lking@mapleridge.ca
District of Maple Ridge • Mayor and Council 2008-2011
Contents
Message from the Mayor of Maple Ridge ......... 1
Message from the Chief Administrative Officer...3
Community Development,
Parks & Recreation Services............................4
Corporate & Financial Services ........................7
Public Works & Development Services ............... 8
History of Maple Ridge.................................. 11
Maple Ridge Highlights..................................12
Movie Industry in Maple Ridge.......................15
Volunteers Grow Community...........................17
Citizens — Going Above and Beyond.............. 19
Our Community... Maple Ridge.......................21
Maple Ridge Fire Department.........................22
Police Services in Maple Ridge.......................23
Financial Statements.....................................24
2008 Taxation..............................................26
Demographics.............................................. 27
Municipal Contact Numbers...........................28
Ernie Daykin, Mayor Jim Rule,Chief Administrative Officer
Vision 2025
The District of Maple Ridge is among the most sustainable communities in the world.
As a community committed to working toward achieving carbon neutrality, residents
experience the value of a strong and vibrant local economy and the benefits of an
ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and creation of stable and special
neighbourhoods. Maple Ridge is a world leading example of thoughtful development
and a socially cohesive community, especially as it relates to the use of leading edge
“environmental technologies,” social networks and economic development.
Other municipalities consistently reference the District of Maple Ridge for its
innovative approaches to dealing with seemingly intractable challenges.
Mission
A safe, livable, and sustainable community for our present and future citizens.
Value Statements
Leadership:To encourage innovation, creativity, and initiative.
Service:To be fair, friendly, and helpful.
Reputation:To stress excellence, integrity, accountability, and honesty.
Human Resources:To recognize that our people are our most valuable resource.
Community:To respect and promote our community.
Stewardship:To consider the long-term consequences of actions,
think broadly across issues, disciplines and boundaries and act accordingly.
On behalf of Council, I am pleased to present our
2008 Citizens Report for the District of Maple
Ridge. The Citizens Report provides an overview of the
past year featuring financial information, department
highlights and accomplishments and other interesting
information about our community. In November 2008
Maple Ridge held its municipal election which saw some
changes in Council make-up and a strong commitment
to continue the community’s course of concentrating
efforts on economic, social, and environmental health.
In past reports we have highlighted the great attributes of our community
especially its natural outdoor assets and how these have become such strong
draws for activities like tourism and movie and feature film production. In this
year’s Citizens Report we highlight a number of success stories including the
progress we have made in the area of big screen production and some of our
community heroes’ stories. We have continued to support and grow the many
special events that take place year-round in Maple Ridge. This has made us
stand out and be recognized as a community of festivals and fairs. We are a
giving and growing community — one blessed with high citizen involvement
that is especially noticeable in the area of volunteerism.
Our citizens have asked Council to address many important priorities
including improved transportation and transit, sustainability and protection
of green space, shopping opportunities, increased industrial tax base and
local job creation, and public safety. We will be working hard on these
priorities and will be introducing new and exciting programs as we get further
into our new mandate. This Council will realize our priorities by building
strong relationships with our neighbours and partners. Our citizens will
continue to see benefits from previously executed work plans as we roll
out results into 2009 such as:
•Our new Town Centre Spirit Square on 224 Street adjacent
to Memorial Peace Park.
•A newly renovated, energy-friendly Fire Hall #1.
•Updated Parks, Recreation & Cultural Master Plan.
•The Golden Ears Bridge and transportation plan.
We are very fortunate to be able to call Maple Ridge “home”. Even as world
economic conditions worsened in 2008 with predictions of a deepening
recession into 2009, Maple Ridge has continued to grow and prosper while
positioning itself favourably for exciting future opportunities.
I am pleased to work with an experienced and dedicated Council and District
staff. As a team and in partnership with the community we will achieve a
great deal and make giant strides to becoming the model place we aspire
to be. I welcome your comments and encourage your participation.
Ernie Daykin
Mayor
District of Maple Ridge
11995 Haney Place, Maple Ridge,
British Columbia V2X 6A9 CANADA
Tel: 604-463-5221 • Fax: 604-467-7329
enquiries@mapleridge.ca • www.mapleridge.ca
2008 CITIZENS REPORT • Deep Roots Greater Heights
Message from the Mayor of Maple Ridge
Ernie Daykin,Mayor
1
Iam very pleased to present our 2008 Citizens Report on
behalf of all employees at the District of Maple Ridge.
Maple Ridge is a wonderful community to live in. We
are surrounded by an abundance of outdoor wilderness
including forests, lakes and waterways. There are many
recreational opportunities for the outdoors enthusiast
along with numerous community-based recreation facilities
available to our citizens including the Arts Centre Theatre,
Leisure Centre, ice arena, parks, and sport courts and
fields. We have year-round festivals and fairs organized
and led by an army of volunteers. We have a desirable
quality of life and strong sense of community that is the envy of many. To help
us maintain and build on this desirable position, the District of Maple Ridge
pursues a comprehensive business planning process.
Highlights of the many accomplishments in 2008 were:
•Maple Ridge has the best of two worlds. It is a rural paradise interwoven with
urban sophistication. It is a growing community acutely aware of the fine
balancing that is needed to protect the interests of an increasingly diverse
population. We continue our planning and the launching of policies and
programs designed to revitalize and reinvigorate our downtown area:
- Spirit Square — an exciting upgrade to Memorial Peace Park and 224 Street
was approved after receiving significant funding from the Province.
- In our ongoing efforts to address transit improvements and in collaboration
with TransLink, we opened our new Transit Exchange at Edge Street and
McIntosh Avenue.
- After several years of background work, we have completed our Town Centre
Area Plan including new Development Permit Guidelines.
- Completing a downtown Parking Strategy Review that incorporates Smart
Growth Principles. Amendments were also made to our parking bylaw.
•On the economic front, a strategic plan for economic development is being
implemented. Four key sectors are:
- Advanced manufacturing
- High tech
- Tourism
- Education institutions
•Maple Ridge has quickly gained a strong reputation for liveability and quality
of life, including environmental strategies that have been formulated to help
the community as it continues to grow.
- A Green Fund has been established from gravel royalties and set aside for
environmental enhancement initiatives and education programs such as
“Naturescaping in Your Backyard” programs.
- “Green Infrastructure” is now incorporated into the Smart Growth Plan for the
Town Centre and into environmental development permit guidelines.
- Work is well underway on Environmental Sensitive Area Mapping which can
be a valuable reference tool to better identify where our environmental
sensitive areas are.
•Our online newsletter has gained strong momentum this past year as
more than 1,000 people now subscribe to this popular communications piece.
Major items to watch for in 2009:
•There will be several projects completed in 2009, the most significant being
the opening of the Golden Ears and Pitt River Bridges. A vision for a bridge
crossing over the Fraser River has long been held by citizens, businesses and
community leaders. This has been long overdue. This new link will present
many positive opportunities for Maple Ridge.
•With the opening of the Golden Ears Bridge, one example of an opportunity
offered to our community is the opening of new industrial lands at the north
end of 256 Street.
•A new program called Our Spirit...Our Town addressing Town Centre
improvements will be launched.
•The District will be front and centre as many high profile special events take
place in Maple Ridge including the BC Disability Games and Mainstage 2009.
Thank you to Council, our employees and the many volunteers who make this
community such a wonderful place to live, work, and play.
J. L. (Jim) Rule
Chief Administrative Officer
2008 CITIZENS REPORT • Deep Roots Greater Heights
Message from the Chief Administrative Officer
3
Jim Rule, CAO
“Both Maple Ridge and
Pitt Meadows are experiencing
growth in terms of their
populations and use of
recreation, park facilities
and programs. The level of
public involvement in active
living is reflected in the
increasing use of the
opportunities we are providing.
Attention must now be given
to the future to ensure
citizens’ needs do not
outstrip our capacity to deliver the opportunities
they have come to expect.”
— Mike Murray, General Manager
The Division has responsibility for parks, recreation,
cultural activities, programs, facilities, liaison with
community groups, community development work,
accessibility, and emergency preparedness.
Administration
One of the primary functions is to support the Parks
and Leisure Services Commission. The Commission
involves representatives from each Municipal Council,
the School Board and citizen at large representatives
in a collaborative effort to meet citizens’ needs. Long-
term planning and major agreements are part of the
work of this section. Highlights of our 2008
achievements follow:
•Commenced the Parks, Recreation, and Cultural
Plan update. A Request for Proposal was
awarded and public workshop and focus group
meetings began.
•Completed a Parks Acquisition and Development
Funding Strategy within the context of the Master
Plan. Negotiations are in progress with School
District No. 42 on joint site acquisition.
•2008 Random Customer Satisfaction Survey
completed.
•Continued discussions with Katzie and Kwantlen
on the Blue Mountain Sustainability Study based
on a Memorandum of Understanding.
•Provided staff support to Spirit of BC Committee.
Mike Murray,
General Manager
Community Development, Parks & Recreation Services
2008 CITIZENS REPORT • Deep Roots Greater Heights 5
Community Services and Social Planning
The Department is comprised of three sections: Social Planning, Neighbourhood
Development and Youth Services. The Social Planning section provides support to the
Social Planning Advisory Committee which focuses on improving the social well-being
of the community by building community capacity through social services network
development, Community Solutions initiatives, Community Building initiatives, and by
encouraging socially sustainable practices for current and future citizens. Highlights of
our 2008 achievements follow:
•Supported efforts to apply for funding to address community social priorities —
resulting in approximately $1.7 million in funding.
•A Memorandum of Understanding was signed with BC Housing with a view to
constructing an $8M supportive housing project in 2009.
•School neighbourhood community garden pilot project was completed at
Glenwood Elementary.
Youth Services
Youth Services provides recreational program services for children (0-12) and youth
(13-18) in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows as well as overseeing the operation of the
Greg Moore and Pitt Meadows Youth Centres. Children and youth programming utilizes
a benefit-based approach and a focus on active living and leadership development.
Highlights of our 2008 achievements follow:
•Participated in development of the School Yard Youth Action Park.
•Initiated Youth Action Park Mentorship program.
Parks & Facilities
The Parks & Facilities Department maintains a total of 218 hectares of parkland
including seasonal displays throughout Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows. The
Department also maintains landscaped boulevards, park sites, playgrounds, soccer
fields, ball diamonds, cemeteries, major trail systems, tennis and sport courts, and
administers the lease for the Maple Ridge Golf Course. The Department oversees the
maintenance of all municipal facilities including Municipal Hall, fire halls, and public
safety buildings as well as rental and leased properties. The functions carried out
include janitorial services, elevator, boiler, heating, air handling service contracts,
and energy management. Highlights of our 2008 achievements follow:
•Addressed field lighting issue at Rotary Field resulting in a change in hours
of operation.
•Obtained Spirit Square Grant. Completed community consultation, established
phasing, completed design and tendering for the Maple Ridge project.
•Completed design and tendering and commenced construction of the Pitt Meadows
Spirit Square.
•Completed Randy Herman Centre renovation.
•Managed the Community Ecosystem Restoration Initiative (CERI) project on North
Alouette following overcut.
•Finalized Whonnock Lake expropriation and construction of lake level control structure.
Recreation
The Recreation Department provides recreational opportunities for both Maple Ridge
and Pitt Meadows citizens. Programs and facilities include aquatics, fitness, arts,
health related drop-in programs, skating, outdoor recreation opportunities, and
special events. Highlights of our 2008 achievements follow:
•Assumed control of Pitt Meadows Arena operation and hired an interim operator
pending settlement of outstanding legal issues.
•Hired time-duration Sport Tourism Coordinator and commenced policy preparation.
•Participated in establishment of the BC Games for the Physically Disabled
Organizing Committee.
•Published Outdoor Accessibility Guidelines and second edition of the Outdoor
Recreation Guide.
•Finalized new multi-year operating agreements with the Arts Council and Ridge
Meadows Seniors Society. The Arts Council successfully completed the fifth full year
of their contracts with the Commission for operation of the Arts Centre and Theatre.
Emergency Preparedness
The District’s Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) is activated when the EOC Director
deems a disaster event serious enough to call together a broad range of resources
within the BC Emergency Response Management System to support front line
responders. Trained staff are assigned to the Planning, Operations, Logistics, and
Finance functions as well as Communications roles to provide support over a
sustained period. The Fraser River freshet preparation in 2007 was an example of
when the EOC was activated and when coordinating efforts can produce positive
results. Highlights of our 2008 achievements follow:
•Training, including the annual exercise, and recruiting for the EOC and Emergency
Social Services (ESS) programs.
•Developing a recovery response plan to include specific responses to events such
as fire, flood, and storms.
•Performing a critical infrastructure analysis.
•Updating municipal website to include current information on emergency response.
Mike Murray
General Manager:
Community Development, Parks & Recreation Services
“Maple Ridge has sound financial management practices
in place and these will serve our community well during
the difficult economic times that are ahead of us.”
— Paul Gill, General Manager
The Division consists of three departments, Clerk’s,
Finance, and Information Services. We also provide
support to the Police and the Fire Department.
Administration
The Corporate & Financial Services Administration section
is responsible for making recommendations to merge and
align strategic planning, best practices, performance
measures and budget priorities that guide decision-making in our organization.
In addition, we are responsible for carrying out corporate initiatives as directed by
Council and the Corporate Management Team,and we attend to enquiries and
requests for assistance from fellow staff, Council members, and the general
public. Highlights of our 2008 achievements follow:
•Worked with the RCMP to pilot the Community Safety Officer program.
•Provided performance measurement results to Council and the public in
a timely fashion.
•Increased website content with a view to reducing telephone calls and
counter enquiries.
Clerk’s
The Clerk’s Department is responsible for supporting the legislative matters and
decisions of Council, including agenda preparation, recording official minutes,
administration and certification of bylaws, and the execution of all legal
documentation. The Department is the liaison between the District’s contract
legal service providers, Council and staff, and is responsible for providing
Council with up-to-date legislative, statutory and procedural information in the
increasingly complex legal environment in which local governments operate.
The Clerk’s Department also administers the Corporate Records Management
program and is responsible for compliance with Freedom of Information and
Protection of Privacy legislation. The Department conducts the triennial general
local and school district elections as well as bi-elections and referenda. The
Department is responsible for the acquisition and disposal of all District land
needs at the best possible value to the taxpayer, and for the administration of
all rental properties. The District’s risk management program for loss control
and insurance is also a function of the Department. Highlights of our 2008
achievements follow:
•Successfully conducted the Local Government Election after establishing a
“Get Out the Vote” campaign.
•Collaborated with Information Services to develop a plan to introduce a
standard document management system.
•Obtained elector approval for five Loan Authorization Bylaws.
•Completed the purchase of properties for District needs for parks, roads
and trails.
Finance
The Finance Department provides services through cooperative interaction with
customers and fellow staff supporting the administrative and fiscal needs of the
District within a framework that ensures sound fiscal governance. Specific
functions include preparation and monitoring of the Five Year Consolidated
Financial Plan and Annual Financial Statements; preparing and interpreting
interim financial statements; levying and collecting municipal taxes and utility
fees; processing accounts payable and receivable; development and maintenance
of financial systems; investing and safeguarding of the District’s financial assets;
internal auditing; and general cashiering services. In addition, the Department is
responsible for reporting financial matters to the Audit and Finance Committee.
Highlights of our 2008 achievements follow:
•Completed implementation of the new tax and utility software, and
implemented a new accounting guideline for tangible capital assets.
•Continued investment portfolio management and reviewed the financial
components of contracts.
•Implemented the long-term Financial Sustainability Plan.
•Successfully migrated capital program administration from the Engineering
Department to the Finance Department.
Information Services
Information Services is responsible for managing corporate computer systems
and supporting infrastructure. Corporate computer systems include hardware,
software and data resources, and the governance framework to ensure that
investments in information technology continues to provide value to the
organization. Highlights of our 2008 achievements follow:
•Improvements to operating systems and equipment including:
- A new SUN Solaris operating system.
- A new taxation management system.
- Installation of new printers and photocopiers.
- AMANDA property system improvements.
•Implemented a departmental succession plan.
Paul Gill
General Manager:
Corporate & Financial Services
Corporate & Financial Services
2008 CITIZENS REPORT • Deep Roots Greater Heights 7
Paul Gill,
General Manager
“In response to citizens’ needs
for transportation improvements,
Maple Ridge has aggressively
pursued and lobbied for greater
transportation choices. Much
has been achieved with the
new Golden Ears and Pitt River
Bridges. Improvements to transit
services are also planned such
as expanded West Coast
Express Services and direct
bus routes to Skytrain. These
transportation improvements
position Maple Ridge as an optimum locale within
Metro Vancouver. The Public Works & Development
Services Division will continue its “open for business”
response to those wishing to invest, live and recreate
in this beautiful part of the Lower Mainland.”
— Frank Quinn, General Manager
The Division consists of four departments:
Engineering, Licences, Permits and Bylaws,
Operations, and Planning. We also work closely
with the Ridge Meadows Recycling Society.
Administration
Highlights of our 2008 achievements follow:
• Gravel strategy implemented.
• Sewer Agreement for 256 Street area completed.
• Financial planning for major transportation routes.
• Participation in emergency planning and
implementation.
• Implemented infrastructure replacement program.
Engineering
The Engineering Department provides municipal
engineering services and support to residents of
Maple Ridge and other departments. Highlights of
our 2008 achievements follow:
• Abernethy Way conceptual design awarded.
• Construction of first roundabout in Maple Ridge at
232 Street at 132 Avenue.
• Supported the work and conclusion of the Alouette
Rivers Flood Management Task Force including the
implementation of remote monitoring system.
Frank Quinn,
General Manager
Public Works & Development Services
• Completed pavement degradation policy review.
• Completed several Local Area Service projects —
267 Street water main and 202 Street sanitary sewer.
• Commenced construction of Academy Park
neighbourhood sanitary sewer and pump station.
• Commenced intersection improvements at
Cottonwood Drive at Dewdney Trunk Road.
• Commenced road improvements to 240 Street
(from 113A Avenue to Dewdney Trunk Road).
• Provided corporate Golden Ears Bridge support
and liaison.
• Prepared and submitted grant applications for the
construction of the River Road storm sewer, upgrades
to Road 13 Diking District dikes and designing the
Hammond Pump Station.
• Completed 240 Street Bridge (South Alouette River)
feasibility study.
• Completed Safer City program initiatives including
demonstration projects such as bicycling skills.
• Participated on corporate initiatives such as Universal
Accessibility Guidelines, Community Gaming Facility
proposal review and the Maintenance and
Transportation Facility Centre.
• Commenced the feasibility planning for the extension
of Abernethy Way to 256 Street.
• Prepared a number of “in-house” designs.
Licences, Permits and Bylaws
The Licences, Permits and Bylaws Department is
responsible for enforcing the District’s bylaws, issuing
building permits, inspecting all construction works,
operating the animal shelter, enforcing animal control
regulations, and ensuring all businesses operating in
the District are licensed. Highlights of our 2008
achievements follow:
• Proactive bylaw enforcement in the Town Centre
including development of a Standards of Maintenance
Bylaw, addressing minimum standards for rental
properties, amending the Untidy/Unsightly Bylaw and
reducing the amount of time from 14 days to 7 days
for response/action from the property owner.
• Implemented a comprehensive dog licensing program.
• Inspector training on new green building code
regulations and review of energy efficiency initiatives.
• Conducted successful Builders Forums.
Operations
The Operations Department is responsible for the
management and maintenance of municipal infrastructure
and provides services fundamental to the health, safety
and convenience of our rapidly growing population in a
manner that is responsive, economical, and environmentally
responsible. This includes providing 24-hour-a-day
emergency response to residents. Highlights of our 2008
achievements follow:
• Conducted a comprehensive fleet analysis using the
E3 Fleet Green Guidelines to meet environmental
performance levels.
• Landslide repair on Spilsbury and on 284 Street.
• Replaced or repaired large diameter culverts.
• Work on 203 Street, Hammond Road, 266 Street,
and Cunningham Avenue.
• Sections of 224 Street and 144 Avenue were
reconstructed to allow better access during
flood events.
• Infiltration investigation at Alco Park, Gunns Pump
Station area.
• Transferred connections and eliminated redundant
watermain on 240 Street south of Dewdney Trunk
Road followed by asphalt road resurfacing on Dewdney
Trunk Road from 232 Street to 240 Streets.
Planning
The Planning Department provides corporate and
community service in four defined areas: development
application management, environmental management,
policy review and development, and provision of
professional support and information. Highlights of our
2008 achievements follow:
• Reviewed the Community Gaming Facility proposal
and the TransLink/BCIT facility project.
• Completed the Town Centre Plan including the
Parking Strategy for the Town Centre and adopted
a Town Centre development permit focused on
sustainability issues.
• Assisted the Agricultural Advisory Committee to initiate
the Agricultural Plan.
• Completed garden suites study and reviewed
assistance measures for modular home owners.
• Participated on the provincial/UBCM Green
Communities Committee.
• Participating in the process for the review of the
Regional Strategic Plan with Metro Vancouver.
• Follow-up on court order for rehabilitation on
Morse Creek.
Recycling
Ridge Meadows Recycling continued with their successful
program by:
• Recycling 100 tons of tvs and computers.
• Providing real employment for 30 people with disabilities.
• Expanding apartment collection with new truck.
• Completing Waste Composition study.
• Recycling 10,137 tons of waste.
Frank Quinn
General Manager:
Public Works & Development Services
2008 CITIZENS REPORT • Deep Roots Greater Heights 9
Being one of the first municipalities to incorporate
in British Columbia, Maple Ridge has built a
rich history. Back on September 12, 1874 when a
group of early settlers met on John McIver’s farm,
there were less than 50 families with 33,000 acres
of future potential. The location and beautiful
surroundings of Mr. McIver’s farm inspired him to
name his farm “Maple Ridge”. It was not long
before the McIver property with its ridge of beautiful
maple trees that stretched for two miles along the
Fraser River, became the name for Maple Ridge,
the community. Where McIver’s farm was once
situated has become a golf course. A plaque on the
golf course commemorates the first meeting in which
the decision was made to incorporate the District of
Maple Ridge. This is where early settlers began to
dream of a future where families could prosper and
raise their children in a healthy environment.
Early on and over time, the character of Maple
Ridge would begin to form and bring with it all of
the opportunities that those who first settled the
area hoped would come. Neighbourhoods like
Hammond, Whonnock, Webster’s Corners, Ruskin,
Albion and Yennadon sprung up and provided the
homes where families could flourish. Each had their
own post office, community centre, churches,
stores and schools.
Maple Ridge grew alongside the Province’s earliest
transit route — the Fraser River. When the Canadian
Pacific Railway was completed in 1885, the
community gained further benefits as the railway
ran along Maple Ridge’s southern border adjacent to
the Fraser River and brought with it the advantages
of the latest invention in transportation. Maple Ridge
was not connected to New Westminster until 1913
with the construction of River Road and the Pitt
River Bridge and was the only rural municipality in
British Columbia through which the Canadian Pacific
Railway passed.
Since 1874 Maple Ridge has grown and prospered.
It continues to be a magnet for many and for so
many reasons. What was once a community primarily
dependent upon agriculture, fishing, forestry and
mining, Maple Ridge has expanded and diversified its
economic base to include advanced manufacturing,
high tech, television and film production, and
education services. It has first class recreation and
park facilities and easy access to some of the most
spectacular outdoor wilderness settings anywhere. It
is a community of festivals and fairs that has created
a year round playground for people of all ages.
Today Maple Ridge, with a population of 74,000, is
the envy of many communities — it has so much
to offer. It provides the amenities and urban
sophistication that some desire while retaining
the rural character that others want.
11
History of Maple Ridge
Top right: James Murray Webster poses proudly in front of Webster’s Corner post office in about 1915.
Middle right: Port Haney train station and commercial district on River Road in 1910.
Bottom right: Part of the trucking fleet that built Lougheed Highway, 1930.
2008 CITIZENS REPORT • Deep Roots Greater Heights
Jennifer McKenzie
Since the age of five, Jennifer has lived and grown
up in Maple Ridge. She was a student at Fairview,
Westview and Maple Ridge Senior Secondary schools
where she states, “I had great teachers and
thoroughly enjoyed my school years.”
From a very young age Jennifer was active and
involved in sports including swimming (she swam
competitively with the Haney Neptunes) and horse-
back riding. She joined Maple Ridge Pony Club at
age 6 and eventually reached “B” standing which
is nearing the top achievement level. Jennifer says
that she loved the sport of Three Day Eventing which
covers every aspect of horsemanship and demands
considerable experience in all branches of equitation
and a precise knowledge of the horse’s ability.
In grade 12 and at the age of 17, Jennifer
experienced what was a life changing event when
the horse she was riding on, on a cross country
course fell into a gopher hole. The result: Jennifer
suffered a brain injury and other physical injuries and
fell into a coma. She spent a year in hospital adapting
to a new life and missing the opportunity to graduate
with all of her school mates, many of them lifelong
friends. She was able to return to school however
and graduate a year later.
In her own words, Jennifer provides a summary of
her life:
Pre-accident, my life was a “bowl of cherries”,
growing up in such a great, little town where
equestrian pursuits were readily available and I had
so many wonderful opportunities hacking down
most days after school to the Maple Ridge Equestrian
Centre. We all had such fun representing our
community at the PNE North West International
event, Pony Club Rallies and attending the BC
Regional and Western Canadian Games. I was
proud to be the youngest member of the North
American Championship Team hosted for the first
time right here in Maple Ridge.
2008 CITIZENS REPORT • Deep Roots Greater Heights 13
Maple Ridge Highlights
Sgt. Stacey Shannon. FreeTown Implementation.
My Plan B in life has been difficult at times as I have
had to endure many trials and tribulations but the one
thing that has remained constant has been the support
of my community. Through encouragement from so
many, I have been able to return to the sport that always
was and will be my first love.
Fionna Christensen of the North Fraser Therapeutic
Riding Association and where dreams become reality,
worked miracles and through her skill, I once again
could feel the desire to compete and be successful.
So many happy times were spent at the Equestrian
Centre qualifying for major international events it was
almost like old times. I decided to make a goal after
one competition that I would dedicate the next years
to be the best I could be, and prove that a rider with
a disability can achieve harmony and excellence in
the sport of dressage and perhaps even ride in the
Paralympics! Big, lofty goals but achievable.
As I competed in 2008 at the Paralympic Games,
I was thrilled to receive an e-mail through the
National Coach that I had been nominated for a
Hometown Hero Award. It was a poignant moment
as I shared the news with my family, friends and
fellow athletes and just seemed so appropriate
that I should receive this message from Maple Ridge
at that particular moment so far away from home in
China. It was with much pride I signed my name,
Jennifer McKenzie, Maple Ridge, BC Canada on
the huge board in the Athlete Village.
We are proud of Jennifer and thank her for sharing
her story. We salute her efforts, courage and
determination to become the best she can become.
She is a community hero and role model to others.
Jennifer McKenzie has represented Canada nine times,
most notably at the 2003 and 2007 Para-Equestrian
World Championships. McKenzie, 42, of Maple Ridge, BC,
has also been named Athlete of the Year 2007–2008 by
PacificSport Fraser Valley and by Horse Council British
Columbia in 2003. The XIIIth Paralympic Summer Games
were held in Beijing, China, from September 6–17, 2008.
• Brett Sonne — a member of Canada’s hockey team
which won their fifth straight gold medal at the World
Junior Hockey Championship.
• Sgt. Stacey Shannon flew the Maple Ridge flag in the
dust, heat and sandstorms of Afghanistan.
• Picture BC Project (UBCM/Knowledge Network)
— Showcasing beautiful Maple Ridge.
• Olympic Film Project – featuring Maple Ridge at the
2008 Beijing Olympics (BC Pavilion).
• Malcolm Lee, a District of Maple Ridge employee,
receives a Safety Star Award. Malcolm came across a
motor vehicle mishap where a car with a woman trapped
inside had crashed into a water filled ditch. Malcolm
helped get her out before emergency services were on
scene. This prompt action may have saved her life.
• FreeTown Implementation — Free wireless Internet
access is available 24 hours a day, year round within
the outdoor area of downtown Maple Ridge bounded
by Lougheed Highway to the south, Dewdney Trunk
Road to the north, 223 Street to the west and 227
Street to the east.
• Silver Ridge was acknowledged at the Canadian Home
Builder’s Association’s SAM awards, when Portrait
Homes’ new-home project earned the nod for best
residential-community development in Canada.
Top: Brett Sonne.
Middle: Malcolm Lee with Maple Ridge’s CAO Jim Rule.
Bottom: Silver Ridge.
Maple Ridge is a popular location for the movie
industry. Our film-friendly neighbourhoods and
beautiful natural scenery, combined with industry tax
incentives make it very attractive for both foreign
and domestic productions.
2008 saw 54 productions or 344 film ‘shoot’ days
in Maple Ridge. Conservative industry estimates are
that each film generates a $10,000 cash injection
into the local economy each day, equating to $3.4
million dollars annually. There are more than 25,000
BC residents employed by the film industry, many
residing in Maple Ridge.
Some of the locations where productions took place
in Maple Ridge in 2008 follow:
• Memorial Peace Park, Municipal Hall, the Town
Centre and our many parks continue to be popular
locations. The District of Maple Ridge Operation’s
Department played out as Santa’s Workshop in
July, complete with real reindeer for a television
movie called “Christmas Town”.
• Actors Anne Heche and James Tupper were on
location at Municipal Hall in the summer filming
the government espionage movie “Toxic Skies”.
Actors, dressed as SWAT members, stormed the
halls of the Administration and Parks Departments.
Other recognizable locations in this movie are
Ridge Meadows Hospital, the Business Centre
and Allco Park neighbourhood.
• Ashley Judd and Goran Visnjic starred in “Helen”
which was filmed at the Ridge Meadows Hospital
earlier this year. During filming, Ashley came down
with an acute case of appendicitis so it was
fortunate she was in a hospital at the time!
• Golden Ears Park played a major role in the
feature film, “I Love You Beth Cooper”, starring
Hayden Panettiere.
Maple Ridge is a versatile, well-positioned location to
be the backdrop for any one of many settings — the
North Pole, a distant planet, and even New York City.
Because of this, Maple Ridge helps make British
Columbia the third biggest hub of the North American
movie business after Los Angeles and New York.
15
Movie Industry in Maple Ridge
2008 CITIZENS REPORT • Deep Roots Greater Heights
Volunteers play a significant role in Maple Ridge.
They help create a vibrant community and engage
citizens of all ages and from all walks of life in many
positive community activities.
According to a Parks and Leisure Services community
survey conducted in 2008, 33% of our citizens
volunteered in the previous year with 31% of these
people contributing 100 hours or more of their
skills and time. The sense of pride with which
our volunteers carry out their duties has greatly
contributed to the quality of life in Maple Ridge.
Volunteers have, for example, assisted and been
advocates for those deemed vulnerable, preserved
green spaces for the enjoyment of future generations,
and have supported the goals of the Business
Improvement Association. They train and prepare for
emergency situations, support the work of fire and
police services, promote healthy living for seniors,
help with swimming lessons and youth activities and
much more.
Volunteers are a priceless gift to our community,
and Maple Ridge is such a rich community thanks
in large part to those who give so generously.
Search and Rescue volunteers assist during a flood event.Auxiliary Constable assisting with traffic control. Volunteers help the community in many ways.
2008 CITIZENS REPORT • Deep Roots Greater Heights 17
Volunteers Grow Community
Klaus and Betty von Hardenberg
Ron Antalek Heather McCain Margaret Kury
• Aimee Tjernagel donated her hair for the third
time to organizations that provide wigs for
financially disadvantaged children who have lost
their hair for medical reasons. She donated to
Locks for Love at the ages of 6 and 8 and this
year she is donating her hair to Wigs for Kids.
“I like knowing that kids will have hair that don’t
have hair,” said Tjernagel.
• Heather McCain received the annual Sport BC
President’s Award for her achievements in disability
sports. Heather started the Citizens for Accessible
Neighbourhood organization which advocates for
better accessibility in public places. “People with
disabilities didn’t feel they had a voice that could
be heard,” she said. Heather is known for her work
in the community, and her hard work and
dedication to disability sports.
• Margaret Kury named Maple Ridge’s Citizen of
the Year for 2008. She volunteers with Adopt a
Block, donates blood, and is an executive member
of the Royal Canadian Legion. “She’s an incredible,
unsung hero, that’s who she is,” says Kathy
Marshall, with the Maple Ridge Community
Foundation. In the past 10 years Margaret has
raised $120,000 for the Prostate Cancer
Foundation and the Breast Cancer Foundation as
well as $30,000 for Ridge Meadows Hospice
Society, not to mention the money she has
raised for the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
• Michael Malfesi received the Canadian
Millennium Excellence award and scholarship. For
seven years Michael volunteered at Whonnock
Elementary School and is also a five-year volunteer
with the 30-Hour Famine. In addition, he volunteers
two hours a week at Ridge Meadows Hospital
where he chats and plays games with residents,
along with performing small tasks for doctors and
nurses. He is called, “a selfless individual who
gives his time to help others.”
• Ann Meraw received the Order of BC, the
Province’s highest honour in recognition of
excellence, achievement and citizenship. Among
her numerous swimming accomplishments, she
has saved 63 people from drowning and started
the first Water Babies program in Canada. Ann
continues to volunteer as a swimming coach,
fitness teacher for seniors, and patrols the down-
town streets of Maple Ridge for the Haney Central
Community Policing Committee.
• Brenda O’Scienny named as one of BC’s
“outstanding nurses” by the Ministry of Health.
As a nurse for 36 years and the coordinator of
the Maple Ridge Mental Health Centre, Brenda
provides higher than average care to patients,
demonstrates innovation in nursing and patient
care, acts as a mentor and a role model, and is
actively involved in the community. “I’m not finished
my work so I’m going to continue. I’m going to
leave it in God’s hands,” she said.
• Klaus and Betty von Hardenberg received a
2008 Maple Ridge Good Neighbour Award. Betty
and Klaus were nominated by fellow neighbours for
their efforts assisting and supporting others in the
neighbourhood such as hosting barbecues, garage
sales and dances. They are well known for their
advocacy work especially on behalf of seniors and
were key players in the formation of the Thornhill
Aquifer Protection Society. “In the long-term, people
aren’t held together because they believe in a
single cause,” says Betty. “It’s because they care
for each other.”
• John MacDonald received a 2008 Maple Ridge
Good Neighbour Award. John is a Coquitlam
firefighter who works tirelessly outside of his regular
work to help keep the streets of Maple Ridge
looking clean and welcoming. He collects old paint
and cleans up unsightly graffiti. On top of all this,
he participates in Ironman triathlons and still
manages to give of his time freely to a good
community cause.
• Ron Antalek donated $1 million to Ridge
Meadows Hospital psychiatric unit. Ron said he
made this donation due to the excellent medical
care his family has received at the hospital over
the years. “I hope I can inspire others. Mental
health to me is a very important issue in our
community,” says Ron.
• Trethewey family received the first Alouette River
Private Landowners Stewardship Award for the
care and love for the land the family has showered
on it around the North and South Alouette Rivers.
“They certainly are the eyes and ears of the river
because there certainly are many parts of the river
the public can’t access,” says Geoff Clayton of the
Alouette River Management Society.
• Carl Wheaton has raised $50,000 for the Kidney
Foundation of Canada in the past 10 years. He
did not let something like his own kidney transplant
get in the way; coordinating the local fund-raising
event as he convalesced at home. “The money
doesn’t come from me, it comes from the
community,” says Wheaton. “This is the
community’s award, and everyone should be
proud of that.”
Richard Trethewey.
2008 CITIZENS REPORT • Deep Roots Greater Heights 19
Citizens — Going Above and Beyond
2008 CITIZENS REPORT • Deep Roots Greater Heights 21
Our Community... Maple Ridge
•Earth Day is a free, family-orientated event that
featured workshops, performances, and numerous
child-orientated activities.
•The Silver Valley Spring Festival in Maple Ridge
Park celebrated the natural environment with
children’s activities, contests, vendors, and
entertainment.
•Ridge Meadows Home Show featured the
Funzone Children’s Festival, the Times Taste of
Ridge Meadows, the Body, Mind and Spirit Psychic
Fair, a mini RV Show, and West Coast
Amusements Carnival.
•The Haney Farmers’ Market is held in Memorial
Peace Park every Saturday from May to October.
Attendees enjoyed grower direct produce and
plants, fresh baking, a wide array of handcrafted
gifts, wonderful music, plus fun activities for
the children.
•Webster’s Corners Day brought together families
to celebrate their neighbourhood with games,
pie-eating contest, local artisans, raffle, interactive
displays, and the Heritage Tea and Historic display.
•Canada Day in Memorial Peace Park began with
an early morning farmers’ market followed by the
traditional flag raising ceremony, entertainment,
children’s art activities, multicultural foods, and a
giant craft market.
•Art Goes Boom took place over two days in July
with young adults presenting a progressive arts
festival that included original music, dance, visual
arts and more.
•Adstock was a free outdoor music event that
showcased local youth bands in Memorial
Peace Park.
•The Caribbean Festival featured live Caribbean
bands, great music, colourful costumes, dancing,
arts and crafts, and delicious food.
•107th Annual Country Fest (formerly the Maple
Ridge Fair) featured 4-H youth shows, baby
animal displays, sheep shearing and sheep dog
demonstrations, horse shows, home arts
competitions, first class stage and roving
entertainment, festival food, and a midway.
•Bard on the Bandstand was a three day free
theatre event put on by the Emerald Pig Society.
•The Jazz & Blues Festival in Memorial Peace Park
featured eleven hours of non-stop live music from
some of BC’s best local, regional, and national
jazz and blues artists.
•Ridge Meadows Heritage Day celebrated local
history with a Pioneer Parade, midway games, a
community barbeque, entertainment, and fireworks.
•The Spirit of Wood Festival included wood carving
demonstrations, live entertainment, make and take
projects, and the launch of a community carving.
•The Whonnock Lake Day celebration featured an
inter-denominational church service, pancake
breakfast, crafts, children’s activities, a 5 and
10 km run/walk, a 1 km non-competitive children’s
run, and musical entertainment.
•BC Rivers Day held at Allco Park and Kanaka
Creek celebrated our spectacular river heritage and
raised awareness of our streams and rivers.
Events included canoe tours, stewardship displays,
walking tours, stage entertainment, a barbecue,
and interactive children’s activities.
•The Ghost Ridge™ Haunted House and fireworks
display at the Maple Ridge fairgrounds entertained
thousands of thrill seekers as a fundraiser for
local charities.
•Rivermania celebrated the heritage and unique
culture of Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows with a
variety of activities.
•Unity in Diversity was a fun-filled family event that
featured an evening of cultural diversity with
dance, arts, food, music, and children’s activities.
•Remembrance Day ceremonies were held at the
Memorial Peace Park Cenotaph after the parade
from the Royal Canadian Legion building. Our own
local heroes, the veterans, are grateful to the
many thousands of citizens who attend.
•Christmas in the Park and the Santa Claus Parade
has become a favourite in December. Entertainment
for children and families with a dazzling parade of
lights, music and decorated floats, a community
carol sing along, a photo session with Santa and
Mrs. Claus, and free hot chocolate.
•Christmas Haven served dinner and entertainment
to those who were alone on Christmas Eve.
Maple Ridge Fire Department
The Fire Department provides a proactive approach
to fire services through the development of multi-
year business plans, including detailed multi-year
financial plans. The primary mission of the Department
is the protection and preservation of life, property and
the environment. This service is provided by a group
of 100 dedicated paid-on-call firefighters, 35 full-time
firefighters, six chief officers, and two administrative
support staff. The Department relies heavily on cross-
training and good communication to ensure that the
Department functions efficiently and effectively. Each
of the assistant chiefs assumes responsibility for the
operation of the individual Fire Halls. In addition to
administrative duties, career officers assume the
role of Duty Chief, which involves responding to all
serious Fire Department emergency calls 24-hours-
day, on a rotational basis. Highlights of our 2008
achievements follow:
•The Charities Committee held several events
throughout the year including the Car Wash for the
Burn Unit, Muscular Dystrophy Boot Drive, and the
Firefighters for Families Food Drive. This committee
demonstrates the firefighters’ dedication to the
community, high morale in the organization, and
the spirit of cooperation and inclusiveness between
the full-time and part-time members. Since 2002,
these events have raised over $250,000 for
local charities.
•The Training section conducted a Recruit Training
program, Company Officer program, Swift Water
Rescue, Technical Rope Rescue, Basic Forestry
Fire-Fighting, Low Angle Rescue, Operations Level
Hazardous-Materials, Driver Training, Aerial Tower
Operator, First Responder Instructor updates, and
the Fire Service Instructor program. Maintenance
training is ongoing.
•Hub Fire Engines built and supplied two identical
engine/pumpers that were put into service in
February of this year. Two additional engine/pumper
trucks have been purchased and are in production
and a chassis is on order for the replacement of
a rescue truck.
•Several successful public education and relations
events were held in the community including: Hot
Summer Nights, Camp Goodtime, Fire Safety
presentations to all kindergarten to grade 3
students in Maple Ridge schools, and Summer
Safety Smart Cards. Fire Prevention Week was full
of activities including school fire drills, Panago
Pizza Partnership, Sign Up the Community program,
Fire Chief for a Day, Community Safety Stars and
an open house. In total, fire and life safety
education was delivered to over 5,000 children
and 1,700 adults.
•The first collective agreement with the International
Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Union was
successfully negotiated.
•Continued implementation of the Fire Department
Master Plan including the hiring of six additional
firefighters and recruitment and training of an
additional 12 paid-on-call firefighters.
•As part of the implementation plan for the
Community Wildfire Protection Plan the Department
purchased a sprinkler protection trailer and
interface initial attack trailer.
•Firefighters continued the “Be Alarmed” Smoke
Alarm program sponsored by Van City, Rotary Club
of Haney, and Canadian Tire. When firefighters
encounter a home that lacks the protection of a
working smoke alarm, the program enables fire
fighters to install smoke alarms at no charge.
•The contract for the expansion and renovations for
Fire Hall 1 was awarded to Mierau Contractors Ltd.
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design
(LEED) certification is being applied for this project.
•The Junior Firefighter Youth Academy celebrated
its 10th year in conjunction with the 10th class
graduation.
2008 CITIZENS REPORT • Deep Roots Greater Heights 22
The main priorities of the Ridge-Meadows
detachment are to reduce the incidents of
crime and threats to public safety and to continue
to heighten the sense of safety on streets and in
neighbourhoods. The RCMP are addressing these
priorities from several fronts. In 2008, the RCMP
introduced a pilot project involving Community
Safety Officers in our communities. Two of these
positions work in our schools and the other in the
Town Centre.
A crime analysis approach to crime enables police
to focus on areas or hot spots associated with
criminal activity. This analysis identifies crime trends
and gathers criminal intelligence which shows where
to focus resources. One of the initiatives formed
from criminal intelligence and crime analysis is the
formation of a detachment “Grow Operation” Team
which has enabled the detachment to respond
quickly and efficiently to grow operations without
decreasing on-road resources. The RCMP have
utilized the ICBC Bait Car program with several
successes in the community.
General Duty uniform members respond to calls
for service and are very active in crime reduction
by ensuring known criminals and those before
the courts are accountable for their actions. One
technique they are using is curfew checks, ensuring
those on court-ordered curfews are at home.
General Duty members continue to work closely
with the Youth Diversion program with success in
decreasing youth recidivism in our communities.
But the police cannot do it alone. This detachment
is blessed with an abundance of volunteers who
willingly sacrifice many hours away from their
families in service to their community. The success
of service to the community is shared by volunteers
working with our organization such as Block Watch,
Court Watch, Search and Rescue, Bike Patrol,
Citizens on Patrol and community policing committees.
The Auxiliary Constable program continues to work
with the Drug Awareness Resistance Education
program (DARE) in local elementary schools. The
citizens of Maple Ridge actively participate in the
policing of their community.
In 2008 the detachment expanded the traffic section
to include a Sergeant Non-Commissioned Officer
(NCO) and 10 regular members. The focus is to
meet the RCMP traffic initiatives to decrease injury
accidents and dangerous driving. The traffic section
continues to work closely with ICBC, municipal, and
other government agencies focusing on problem
traffic locations.
The detachment engages in addressing the root
causes of criminal behaviours, as well as the
enforcement of law and order. As much as RCMP
members have been involved and successful in drug
enforcement, it is recognized that drug addiction is
often the root cause of aberrant behaviour. The RCMP
detachment is closely aligned with several social
agencies such as Alouette Addictions, Fraser Health,
Maple Ridge Treatment Center, Social Planning
Advisory Committee, and the Salvation Army looking
for ways to offer opportunities to those in need. The
RCMP have, over the last year, also formed a positive
partnership with bylaw officers who liaise on projects
together, with very successful outcomes.
Police Services in Maple Ridge
2008 CITIZENS REPORT • Deep Roots Greater Heights 23
Financial Statements
2008 Expenditures
Protective Services 28%
Transportation 17%
Parks, Recreation & Cultural 20%
Water Utility 9 %
Sewer Utility 7%
General Government 13%
Planning; Public Health & Other 6%
2008 Revenues
Taxes 52%
User Fees & Other 31%
Grants 3%
Development Revenue 8%
Investment Income 4%Other 2%
*Expenditures by Object 2004-2008
-
40,000
35,000
30,000
25,000
20,000
15,000
10,000
5,000
Labour Goods & Services Debt Servicing Capital Contributed Infrastructure
20082007200620052004
Dollars (thousands)
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
$800
$700
$600
$500
$400
$300
$200
$100
74,000
73,000
72,000
71,000
70,000
69,000
68,000
67,000
66,000
65,000
Population Estimate 2004-2008
Debt Per Capita 2004-2008
$2,000
$2,500
$57
$147
$176
$177
$177
$251
$302
$319
$394
$314
$315
$415
$771
$814
$1,380
$0 $200 $400 $600 $800 $1000 $1200 $1400 $1600 $1800 $2000
Total for Municipal Services
Recycling (includes capital)
Fire Services
Capital
Development Services
General Government
Sewer (includes capital)
Water (includes capital)
Community Dev't Parks & Rec
Police Services
Telephone (Basic)
$289Internet (Basic)
Home Security System
Cable (Basic)
BC Hydro (Electricity)
Home Insurance
Terasen (Gas)
Standard Household Costs
Cost of Municipal Services
Based on 2008 average single family residence
-
Comparison of the Average 2008 Annual Property Tax Bill
for All Municipal Services to Other Standard Household Costs
*Objects are major categories of expenditure
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
2008 CITIZENS REPORT • Deep Roots Greater Heights 24
Summary of Financial Statements*
Financial Position
December 31, 2008 2008 2007
Financial Assets
Cash and temporary investments $ 17,796,049 $ 18,321,091
Portfolio investments 100,002,153 92,159,630
Accounts receivable 12,170,400 17,036,111
Recoverable local improvements 1,086,382 876,209
Other assets 562,982 600,067
131,617,966 128,993,108
Liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 13,861,354 12,213,451
Deferred revenue 10,420,100 8,260,924
Restricted revenue 38,599,279 40,865,715
Refundable performance deposits and other 5,820,400 7,490,986
Employment future benefits 4,184,300 4,122,800
Long-term debt 44,018,240 45,844,029
116,903,673 118,797,905
Net Financial Assets $ 14,714,293 $ 10,195,203
* Financial Statements
The Financial Statements are presented in conformity with generally accepted
accounting practices (GAAP). For a copy of the full 2008 Annual Report including
audited 2008 Consolidated Financial Statements which include more detailed
information, please contact the Finance Department at 604-463-5221 after
June 1, 2009.
Revenue
Taxes for municipal purposes $ 50,028,475 $ 49,857,410 $ 46,096,676
User fees and other revenue 29,739,791 26,511,326 26,139,978
Senior government transfers 2,976,171 16,471,709 4,914,817
Development revenue 7,890,331 34,201,026 8,556,488
Interest and investment income
Investment income $ 4,509,791
Interest income 1,000,069
Less: Deferred amount (1,136,481)
Interest and investment income 4,373,379 4,373,379 1,695,000 3,176,526
Asset disposal proceeds and other gains 708,277 - 929,590
Contributed subdivision infrastructure 944,114 944,114 1,490,323
96,660,538 129,680,585 91,304,398
Expenditures
Protective services 25,472,488 39,868,794 22,997,397
Transportation services 15,408,957 49,595,267 15,621,956
Parks, recreation and cultural 18,366,691 40,234,523 17,525,321
Water utility 8,129,287 9,755,829 9,087,857
Sewer utility 6,889,547 9,046,598 6,681,886
General government 11,931,551 16,976,781 10,483,182
Planning, public health and other 5,942,927 4,422,893 2,627,843
92,141,448 169,900,685 85,025,442
Excess (Deficiency) of Revenue over Expenditures 4,519,090 (40,220,100) 6,278,956
Principal/Sinking Fund payments 1,825,789) (3,867,145) (1,893,383)
Debt Issued -21,766,152 -
Increase (decrease) in Fund Balances 2,693,301 (22,321,093) 4,385,573
Fund Balances – Beginning of the Year 56,039,232 56,039,232 51,653,659
Fund Balances – End of the Year $ 58,732,533 $ 33,718,139 $ 56,039,232
Financial Activities Year ended December 31, 2008
December 31, 2008 Actual 2008 Budget 2008 Actual 2007
2008 CITIZENS REPORT • Deep Roots Greater Heights 25
2008 Taxation
Fees & Charges $26.6M
Reserves $33.6M
Property Taxes &
Parcel Charges $46.2M
Development Fees $34.3M
Interest, Grants & Other
$18.0M
2008 Projected Revenue —$184.1 Million
Capital Program $94.1M
s $7.4M Reserves $11.3MtnemyaPtbeD
Other $71.3M
2008 Projected Expenditures — $184.1 Million
Administration $ 4.5M
Fire Protection $ 4.1M
Police Services $15.1M
Corporate & Financial $ 6.3M
Parks, Recreation &
Gen. Govt. Properties $14.9M
Public Works &
Development $11.4M
Sewer $ 6.5M
Water $ 7.5M
$71.3M
Borrowing Proceeds $21.8M
Throughout 2008 the municipality placed continued emphasis on sound
financial management. Council endorsed a funding strategy to address the
long-term sustainability of our infrastructure recognizing the need to maintain
our existing infrastructure as well as providing for future growth. By addressing
these issues early we will be in a better position to leverage the financial
resources needed to sustain our infrastructure and services, employing the
fiscal practices necessary to earn the confidence and trust of our citizens.
Property taxation provides the District with over 50% of its revenue for general
purposes and services such as police and fire protection, parks and recreation,
and transportation. The associated capital requirements depend on funding
from property taxation. Maple Ridge residents enjoy a high quality of local
government services with relatively low property taxes compared to other
municipalities in the British Columbia Lower Mainland.
The Government Finance Officers’ Association of
the United States and Canada (GFOA) has given
an Award for Outstanding Achievement in Popular
Annual Financial Reporting (PAFR) to the District
of Maple Ridge for its Popular Report for the
fiscal year ended December 31, 2007. The
Award for Outstanding Achievement in Popular
Annual Financial Reporting is a prestigious
international award recognizing conformance
with the highest standards for preparation of
state/provincial and local government
popular reports.
In order to receive an Award for Outstanding
Achievement in Popular Annual Financial
Reporting, a government unit must publish
a Popular Annual Financial Report, whose
contents conform to program standards of
creativity, presentation, understandability,
and reader appeal. An Award for Outstanding
Achievement in Popular Annual Financial
Reporting is valid for a period of one year only.
The municipality of Maple Ridge has received
a Popular Award for the twelfth consecutive
year and is very fortunate to be only one of five
municipalities in Canada awarded a PAFR for
2007. We believe our current report continues
to conform to the Popular Annual Financial
Reporting requirements, and we are submitting
it to GFOA.
2008 CITIZENS REPORT • Deep Roots Greater Heights 26
Source: District of Maple Ridge Planning Department
Demographics
Projected Median Age, Maple Ridge 1986-2031
25
30
35
40
45
50
55
1986 1991 1991 2001 2006 2011 2016 2021 2026 2031
Median Age Projected Median Age
Projected Median Age
of 44.6 in 2031
Median Age of 39.3
in 2008
Review of Existing Population and Housing Projections
0
20,000
40,000
60,000
80,000
100,000
120,000
1971 1981 1986 1991 1996 2001 2006 2011 2016 2021 2026 2031
Historical Population Growth (BC Stats)BC Stats PEOPLE 28* projection
GVRD Growth Management Scenario 4.0 Typlan and Hudema Projection with Fraser River Crossing
30,200
in 1976
73,957
in 2008
95,700 in 2021
(BC Stats People 28*)
95,200 in 2021
(GVRD Growth Mgt Scenario 4.0)
108,000 in 2021
(TyPlan & Hudema)
108,900 in 2031
(BC Stats People 28*)
Percentage of Population by Selected Age Groupings, 2006 and 2031
20%
13%
11%
18%
17%
10%
6%
5%
14%
9%
11%
16%
15%
13%12%
9%
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
Ages 0-1 Ages 15-24 Ages 25-34 Ages 35-44 Ages 45-54 Ages 55-64 Ages 65-74 Ages 75+
2006 2031
2008 CITIZENS REPORT • Deep Roots Greater Heights 27
A
Administration.......................................................... 604-463-5221
Arts Centre & Theatre (ACT)................................... 604-476-2787
B
Building Inspections
Building...............................................................604-467-7312
Electrical.............................................................604-467-7313
Gas-Plumbing.....................................................604-467-7314
General...............................................................604-467-7311
After-Hours Inspection Requests........................604-467-7380
Business Licences................................................... 604-467-7440
Bylaw Enforcement.................................................. 604-467-7305
After-Hours ........................................................604-467-7422
C
Cemetery..................................................................604-467-7307
Communications.......................................................604-467-7452
Council Members..................................................... 604-463-5221
D
Dog Licences........................................................... 604-467-7316
E
Economic Development........................................... 604-467-7320
Engineering Enquiries..............................................604-467-7339
Environmental Enquiries.......................................... 604-467-7499
F
Finance Department
Accounts Payable.............................................. 604-467-7388
Accounts Receivable......................................... 604-466-4334
Administration & Accounting.............................. 604-463-5221
Property Taxes & Utilities................................... 604-467-7336
Fire Department (Non-Emergency)..........................604-463-5880
Flooding (After-Hours)..............................................604-463-9581
G
Garbage – Metro......................................................604-466-9277
H
Human Resources................................................... 604-467-7350
L
Library.......................................................................604-467-7417
M
Manager Legislative Services.................................. 604-463-5221
Mayor’s Office.......................................................... 604-463-5221
Municipal Emergency Program................................604-467-7301
Nights & Weekends............................................604-463-9581
P
Parking Enforcement................................................604-467-7305
Parks & Leisure Services
Direct Info Line (24 Hrs).....................................604-467-7322
Direct Reservation Lines
Arenas – Booking/Program Information
Municipal Ice Rental .............................604-465-2499
Planet Ice (Maple Ridge).......................604-467-2883
Ridge Meadows Arenas (Pitt Meadows).604-460-1531
Campground – Maple Ridge.................. 604-467-7357
Facilities – Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows.....604-465-2499
Picnic Shelters........................................... 604-465-2452
Sportfields.................................................. 604-465-2499
Festivals Society.................................................604-467-7325
Greg Moore Youth Centre.................................. 604-467-7354
Leisure Centre
General Enquiries...................................... 604-467-7322
or............................................................604-465-2452
Aquatics Supervisor................................... 604-467-7302
Program Registration.................................604-465-2470
Parks & Facilities Administration........................604-467-7346
Pitt Meadows Family Rec Centre.......................604-465-2452
Sportsfield Conditions & Closures..................... 604-465-2499
Volunteer Services............................................. 604-467-7459
Youth Services
Children’s Programs.................................. 604-466-4339
Youth Outreach Initiative............................604-467-7354
Planning
Enquiries............................................................ 604-467-7341
Administration.....................................................604-467-7343
Police - RCMP (Non-Emergency)............................ 604-463-6251
Volunteer Services Coordinator......................... 604-467-7644
Pitt Meadows Community Policing.....................604-465-2402
Pound - SPCA..........................................................604-463-9511
Property & Risk Management 604-467-7315
Public Works
Enquiries............................................................ 604-463-9581
or.................................................................... 604-467-7363
Public Works Emergency - 24 hours..................604-463-9581
Purchasing............................................................... 604-466-4343
R
Recycling..................................................................604-463-5545
Roads Maintenance................................................. 604-467-7363
S
Schools.................................................................... 604-463-4200
Seniors’ Programs & Information............................. 604-467-4993
Sewer Maintenance................................................. 604-467-7363
Sidewalk Maintenance............................................. 604-467-7363
Snow Removal.........................................................604-467-7363
T
Traffic Enquiries....................................................... 604-467-7339
W
Water Maintenance.................................................. 604-467-7363
Z
Zoning...................................................................... 604-467-7341
District of Maple Ridge • 11995 Haney Place, Maple Ridge, BC V2X 6A9 • www.mapleridge.ca
Switchboard/GeneraI Information.......604-463-5221
General Fax Line.................................604-467-7329
Public Works Emergency – 24 hours......................604-463-9581
Fire, Police & Ambulance Emergency.......................................911
Municipal Contact Numbers
2008 CITIZENS REPORT • Deep Roots Greater Heights 28
The District of Maple Ridge is pleased to make available this beautifully produced Citizens Report utilizing the
latest conservation technologies. The production of this report in hard copy format is done to meet the needs
of those who wish to remain informed in this manner of District of Maple Ridge business. In addition to using
more earth-friendly production methods and as part of its commitment to becoming one of the most sustainable
communities in the world, there will be fewer printed copies of this year’s edition of the Citizens Report but
unlimited access through the District’s website at www.mapleridge.ca.
The 2008 Citizens Report has been prepared and compiled by the Communications Department.
This Department is responsible for developing and maintaining
effective communications between the District of Maple Ridge and its customers and employees.
Comments regarding this publication can be forwarded to:
Communications Department
District of Maple Ridge
11995 Haney Place
Maple Ridge, BC V2X 6A9
or by email to: cdale@mapleridge.ca
Photography credits: Jeff Laverton, Garry Hampton, Colin Andre, TransLink,
The News & Oliver Rathonyi-Reusz, In View Images.
Design & Production: Hugh Jacobs, Hi-Res Graphic Solutions.
Mayor Ernie Daykin
edaykin@mapleridge.ca
• Council Workshops on the first and third Monday of each month at 9:00 am.
• Committee of the Whole on the first and third Monday of each month at 1:00 pm.
• Council meetings on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:00 pm.
• Public hearings on the third Tuesday of each month at 7:00 pm.
• For more information on public hearings, special Council sessions, and civic events, check our website.
Councillor Al Hogarth
ahogarth@mapleridge.ca
Councillor Craig Speirs
cspeirs@mapleridge.ca
Councillor Cheryl Ashlie
cashlie@mapleridge.ca
Councillor Judy Dueck
jdueck@mapleridge.ca
Councillor Michael Morden
mmorden@mapleridge.ca
Councillor Linda King
lking@mapleridge.ca
District of Maple Ridge • Mayor and Council 2008-2011
Contents
Message from the Mayor of Maple Ridge ......... 1
Message from the Chief Administrative Officer...3
Community Development,
Parks & Recreation Services............................4
Corporate & Financial Services ........................7
Public Works & Development Services ............... 8
History of Maple Ridge.................................. 11
Maple Ridge Highlights..................................12
Movie Industry in Maple Ridge.......................15
Volunteers Grow Community...........................17
Citizens — Going Above and Beyond.............. 19
Our Community... Maple Ridge.......................21
Maple Ridge Fire Department.........................22
Police Services in Maple Ridge.......................23
Financial Statements.....................................24
2008 Taxation..............................................26
Demographics.............................................. 27
Municipal Contact Numbers...........................28
District of Maple Ridge • 11995 Haney Place, Maple Ridge, BC V2X 6A9
Tel: 604-463-5221 • Fax: 604-467-7329 • www.mapleridge.ca
Printed on 100% Postconsumer fibre and 100% Recycled paper. Design & Production – Hi-Res Graphic Solutions: www.hi-resgraphics.com
District of Maple Ridge
British Columbia, Canada
District of Maple Ridge
British Columbia, Canada
2008 Citizens Report