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1. What is Voyent Alert! ?

Voyent Alert! is a notification system that uses advanced geospatial technology to send personalized alerts about emergencies and day-to-day activities.

Rather than receive a generic message about an event taking place in your town, Voyent Alert! will provide detailed information that is relevant to you. Our alerts are able to provide necessary details including an event’s distance from you, maps of the impacted areas, and your next steps. This could be a reminder to move your car for street cleaning or step-by-step directions to the nearest evacuation shelter.

The result is that the message you receive provides the most important information, allowing you to make better, more informed decisions.

2. Does Voyent Alert! collect personal information?

No.

The only information required to register is a postal code or address and a phone number or email address. No other personal information such as your name, address, or date of birth is required. Please see the Voyent Alert! Privacy Policy for more details.

3. Do I have to pay to use the service?

No. You will not be charged to download the Voyent Alert! app or use this service.

4. Am I going to be bombarded with useless messages?

No. You will only ever receive a notification if it is relevant to a location or a specific topic you have selected.

To identify which topics you would like to subscribe to, visit the “My Topics” menu on your Voyent Alert! account.

5. How is this different from other regional alert systems like Alberta Emergency Alert?

Federal and provincial services advise users about issues at a broader provincial or district level. These alerts provide general warnings in order to effectively notify the variety of users in their regions.  How the issue might impact you, specifically, might not always be immediately clear.

Voyent Alert! works on a more detailed level. We provide you with customized information including where the alert is relative to your location and your immediate next steps.

Additionally, as Voyent Alert! is administered at the community level it can be used for general day to day communications and local services.

6. Is training required to use the service?

No, Voyent Alert! is very simple to use.

When you first register helpful hints are included to guide you in setting up your account. If you ever get stuck, click on the “?” on the side of the screen for assistance. Additional support can be found in our Frequently Asked Questions page or by submitting a question directly.

7. I am concerned about privacy issues. Where is the service operated from?

Voyent Alert! is a cloud-based service utilizing Canadian-based resources for operations and storage.

ICEsoft undertakes measures to ensure that Voyent Alert! is compliant with the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act of Canada (PIPEDA).

8. How can I use Voyent Alert! with my do not disturb feature?

If you choose to give Voyent Alert! permission, you can receive emergency alerts on your device when Do Not Disturb Mode is turned on. This will give permission for all alerts and notifications to be sent to your device at any time. We recommend turning this feature on to ensure you get critical alerts in the evening.

If you receive alerts through a iOS or Apple Mobile App:

1. Go to Settings and select the Voyent Alert! App.
2. Select Notifications. The wording may differ depending on your device.
3. Turn ‘Allow Critical Alerts’ on. This will allow critical alerts to send a notification and play a sound when your phone is muted or Do Not Disturb is turned on.

If you receive alerts through an Android Mobile App:

1. Go to Settings and search for ‘Do not Disturb permission’ or ‘special access’ (this may vary depending on your device).
2. Turn Voyent Alert to on.
3. Please note, certain devices may require alternative steps. Please view our  FAQ for using DND with specific Android Devices.

If you receive your alerts via SMS/Text Messaging:

1. Add Voyent Alert! as a Contact in your phone. Voyent Alert! messages will always be sent from the same number, so you go to the most recent Voyent Alert! notification and add a new contact.
2. Add Voyent Alert! as an allowed caller.  The process for determining allowed callers will change depending on the phone you use. For iOS Apple devices you will need to add the Voyent Alert! contact to your favourites.

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1. Will the Town of Slave Lake cap the number of cannabis stores?

No. The Town will not be capping the number of cannabis retail stores in the area. Council feels that the Market will dictate the number of stores in the Town. 

2. Is there a setback requirement between cannabis stores?

No. Like liquor stores in Town of Slave Lake, there will be no setback requirements between retailers.

3. Are there any other setbacks being considered?

At this time council is not considering additional setback requirements between cannabis stores and other uses. (I.E, Parks, Public Open Spaces, Trails, Libraries, Government Buildings, etc. )

4. Are there setback requirements from school sites, future school sites or hospitals?

Council is presently considering a 50m setback from all schools, future school sites, and provincial health care facilities.

5. Do I need approval from Town of Slave Lake to setup a cannabis retail store?

Yes. You will need a Development permit, as well as any applicable federal and/or provincial approvals and licences. 

6. When can I apply to Town of Slave Lake for a development permit?

The Town of Slave Lake will be accepting applications for cannabis retail stores on October 1st 2018. 

7. How long will it take to obtain my approvals from the Town of Slave Lake?

Where an applicant provides all of the required information, a permit can be issued within a couple of weeks. 

However, where a use is listed as discretionary, the process involves notification to adjacent landowners, which provides 21 days for a potential appeal. The Municipal Planning Commission (MPC) must review these applications as well. 

8. When can I start construction?

Once you have your provincial license, and after you have received the required permits from the Town of Slave Lake, you may begin construction on a retail space.

9. What is the provincial licensing process?

Please refer to the Alberta Liquor and Gaming Commission for information regarding the provincial licensing process.

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1. I have installed a backwater valve, have a sump pump, and good lot grading, but I still get flooded. Why did this happen?

The specific reasons for a home to experience flooding have to be investigated on a case-by-case basis. Possible causes could be foundation wall seepage, failure of a backwater valve or sump pump, excessive flows the sump pump cannot handle, and/or excessive street flooding.

2. The downspout from my eavestrough is connected to the sewer pipe. Should it be disconnected?

Yes, The town's sanitary sewer system is not designed to handle the additional burden of stormwater. 

3. What is the importance of good lot grading?

Good lot grading keeps surface water away from your home and your weeping tile system. Ideally a lot should be sloped steeply away from the home in a way that allows surface water to flow onto town property (e. g. , streets and lanes), rather than onto a neighbouring property. A disconnected downspout and sump pump should discharge at least 15 feet away from the home to ensure water does not seep down the side of the house and into the home's weeping tile. 

4. How does stormwater flooding cause my sanitary sewer to back up? Are there not two separate drainage systems?

Because sanitary sewers are not watertight, stormwater can get into the sanitary sewer in a number of ways:

• at manholes, through manhole covers, and through cracks and voids around the manhole
• from the surrounding ground, through cracks or separations in the sewers and from private service connections
• from weeping tile (foundation drainage) systems at private homes and buildings, since poor lot grading contributes to weeping tile flows
• from downspouts that have been incorrectly connected to the sanitary sewer system rather than the storm sewer system.

Also, during larger storm events, much more water pools on the surface than normal. This can cause an increased amount of water to enter the sanitary sewer.

5. How can I stop flooding on my property (yard or basement) caused by discharge from my neighbour's downspout or sump pump?

Check your own lot grading. Most homes over five years have settlement around the foundation walls. Remember, downspouts only pick up roof drainage. If both houses have proper slope away and proper drainage swales then the discharge of the downspout and/or sump pump would be directed off the lot. Have you ever considered where your surface runoff would go if your neighbour's house was not there?

6. I live in an older neighbourhood. My neighbour has built a new house with a higher surface elevation than surrounding properties. Are there set standards for drainage elevation, and what should I do?

A new house built in an older area is called in-fill housing. In these cases, the builders must conform to the provisions of the Property Drainage Bylaw and the Development Standards and Procedures, which prohibits drainage onto adjacent properties. Matching the existing grade at the common property line is normal practice for these developments. Adjacent homeowners must consider their own grading. 

They should be aware that under the Property Drainage Bylaw and the Development Standards and Procedures, new homes are required to have a 5% slope away from the foundation walls.

7. My neighbour's re-graded lot is higher than mine. What should I do to prevent flooding on my property?

Check your own lot grading and foundation drainage. Then speak with your neighbour. Remember, surface water will follow the grade of least resistance. If you have a poor or negative grade, the surface water will flow towards your foundation wall increasing the risk of basement flooding.

8. My neighbour's new sidewalk is at a higher elevation and water runs into my yard. What should I do?

Effective side-lot drainage requires the co-operation of both property owners. Check your own lot grading and foundation drainage, then speak with your neighbour. Ask them if they can construct a retaining wall to catch the surface drainage, or re-direct the downspout discharge or sump pump discharge to force the surface drainage to flow toward the front street or back lane.

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1. I had my grading approved, and the neighbours construction/grading damaged mine. Who is responsible for fixing it?

It is your obligation to maintain the lot grading in perpetuity regardless of natural settlement or activity caused by yourself or damage by a 3rd party. 

Property owners are required to ensure that others do not trespass and damage grading on your private property. The Town of Slave Lake is unable to enforce or police such actions or determine cause or fault. That would require a civil action suit against the offending party or you as the owner should consult with the offending party and advise of the damage. You may also wish to consult with the Builder's Warranty program if damage by a 3rd party is covered.

2. Does the Town of Slave Lake provide Lot Grading Certificates?

No. An Alberta land surveyor and/or an engineer can produce the lot grading certificate.  

3. How much topsoil do I need to get final grade?

As a general rule, the acceptable amount of topsoil that should be placed on top of the rough grade is about 10 to 15 centimeters (4 to 6 inches), and you should follow the same slopes that your Builder has established for the rough grade.  

4. Can I use washed rock, decorative rock, or bark chips to bring the land up to final grade?

No. If you are placing rock mulch or bark mulch, the clay base (rough grade) should be raised to the final grade level before placing any decorative material. The grade should be raised with clay, topsoil, or compacted “road crush” gravel. This is important for internal swales.

5. Do I need to book an appointment for an inspection?

No. An appointment is not necessary.

6. Do I need to be present for the inspection?

No. A  lot grading letter will be provided to the land owner shortly after the inspection. Should there be any corrective actions noted in the letter, a deadline will be provided to correct the lot grading deficiencies, and another lot grading inspection will be required.  You can call 780-849-8004  to discuss items on the letter.

7. Can I meet the Lot Grading Inspector on site?

Yes. However, workload volumes make it difficult for the lot grading inspectors to schedule meetings, since they're usually arranged on short notice. If arranged in advance, the inspector may be able to call a half-hour before arriving on site. You can request a meeting by calling 780-849-8004. 

8. Can I plant flowers and flower beds before the inspector comes out?

It is the recommendation of the Town of Slave Lake Lot Grading Inspector, that you do not plant flowers, or install flower beds until after the inspector has conducted your lot grading inspection.

9. How long do I have to fix the deficiencies?

In your Lot Grading Letter a timeline will be outlined for the correction of any outstanding deficiencies.. If an inspection occurs late in the season, the due date for correction is automatically adjusted to the following year.

10. How do I fix the deficiencies?

You need to adjust the grade levels where indicated on the lot grading letter. You can call 780-849-8004 for an explanation, or inquire in person at the Town of Slave Lake Office (Located at 10 Main Street S.W.) or refer to the Guide to Lot Grading handbook.

Some repairs may be as simple as adding some topsoil to a low area, or as complex as removing sod and lowering the soil to repair a high area.

You may also wish to consult a lot grading specialist. 

11. What happens if I have laid down sod and the Inspection fails? Do i have to rip up all the sod?

No. If the inspector finds a concern or problem with the final grade, he or she will identify the deficiency and specify the location on the lot grading inspection letter.. Only the specified location requires improvement, and may require the removal of sod to correct the deficiency. 

12. Is there a charge for lot grading inspections or re-inspections?

No there is no costs for the first two lot grading inspections. However any lot grading inspections thereafter are at a charge of $125.00 per inspection.  

13. I have my grading ready for inspection, and then it rained. My grading is damaged/settled. Am I required to fix it?

Yes. Any settlement should be repaired. However, you don't need to reschedule the inspection. The inspector will identify the areas that require your attention. Your grading will not usually fail for minor rain damage, such as erosion channels at the downspout locations.

14. How early or late in the season does the Town of Slave Lake do lot grading inspections?

The Town must be able to inspect the lot grades and compare the Lot Grading Certificate with the physical site conditions before we can issue a letter with respect to compliance. 

As such, inspections will not be conducted during winter months due to frost and snow i.e. Nov 1st to May 31st . The process of frost heaving can alter the overall appearance of your lot, therefore leading to a misrepresentation of your actual grades.

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1. I want to appeal my assessment, what do I do?

If you don’t agree with your assessment:
•Compare your Assessment to Similar Properties
•The assessment roll, which shows all property values within the Town of Slave Lake, is open for inspection during regular business hours at the Town Office
•Talk to the Assessor (KCL 1-888-419-2128) or visit their website and fill out their
Inquiry Form

2. What are the Assessment Appeal Fees?

Assessment Appeal Fees:

$50.00 per tax roll for residential properties with 3 or less dwelling units or farm properties.

$650.00 per tax roll for residential properties with 4 or more dwelling units.

$650.00 per tax roll for non-residential properties.

$30.00 per tax roll for Tax Notices other than Business.

$650.00 per tax roll for Linear property-Property Generation

$50.00 per Linear Property Assessment Unit Identification for Linear property Other

$650.00 for Equalized Assessment

Note: under the Municipal Government Act, Section 460(6). “There is no right to make a complaint about any tax rate..” This means that you cannot appeal your taxes because you feel that they are too high. You only may appeal the assessment.
To avoid penalty charges, you must first pay your taxes by June 30th EVEN if you plan to appeal your assessment.

3. What is the current penalty schedule for Property Taxes?

Penalties are applied as follows:
July 1ST: 2% applied on current year balance
August 1ST: 6% applied on current year balance
October 1ST: 8% applied on current year balance
January 1ST: 10% applied on year end balance

4. What forms of payment does the Town of Slave Lake offer to pay my Property Taxes?

At the Town office by cash, cheque or Debit
•By mail
•Internet or telephone banking
•At the bank
•By Pre-Authorized Payment - PreAuthorized Tax Form or contact the Town office to make arrangements for this option (Only available if your account is in good standing).

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1. How do I register?

You can register for the service in one of two ways:

1.  If you would like to use Voyent Alert! on your smart phone download and install the Voyent Alert! mobile application from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Then simply enter in an address and follow the instructions.

2. If you would like to receive Text, Email or voice call notifications visit our web-based registration page here. After you enter in an address, a registration code will be sent to you via the contact method you provided.  Once you enter the registration code, registration is complete

2. Can I register to receive notifications by phone and email?

Yes. Voyent Alert! Users are able to register for multiple notification methods (Mobile App, Text Message, Email, or Voice Call) across different devices.

However, each method needs to be independently registered.  For example, in order to receive alerts by both phone and email you would need to register twice, once for each method of contact.

If you would like to register for any additional methods of receiving Voyent Alert! Notifications, please visit our registration page at: https://ca.voyent-alert.com/vras/register.html.

3. I accidentally didn't enter the verification code. What should I do?

Even if you were unable to successfully enter your verification code, your account has still been created. All you are required to do is verify it and this is easy to do.

To begin, go to the Voyent Alert! login page and enter your contact information. Request a new verification code by pressing send. Then check your method of contact for the new 4-Digit Verification Code. Once you have entered the 4-Digit Verification Code, your account will be successfully registered and verified.

Note: you must keep the login screen open on your computer. If you need to access an email account online, please do so in a new browser window or tab.

4. Can I register my children or parents?

Yes.

Provided they have access to email or a phone, you can assist them with registering for Voyent Alert!. Simply install the app from the App Store or Google Play Store or use our web registration to receive email, voice calls or text alerts.

5. Can visitors to the community register for Voyent Alert?

Yes.

Visitors to the community can register with an address for the community just like residents. We recommend selecting a public building like the Town Hall or a hotel. Visitors will be notified if any alerts are sent out that affect one of the “My Locations” they may have set.

6. How do I confirm my registration?

To confirm your registration, you only need to login to your account. When you login you will be sent a new 4-Digit Verification Code to your device. Make sure to use this new code.

Once you have successfully logged in you can be confident that you will receive your alerts. To login to an account visit the Voyent Alert! Login Page.

7. How do I unsubscribe or unregister from Voyent Alert?

If you would like to leave or delete Voyent Alert! you will need to login to Voyent Alert! or open the Voyent Alert! App. Then click on the menu options icon (three horizontal bars) located in the top left corner of the screen and select ‘My Profile’.

Once in ‘My Profile’ select unsubscribe. This will unregistered you from the system and you will no longer receive alerts or notifications.

8. I live outside the Town's boundaries but would still like to receive alerts. Can I still register?

Yes.  If you are outside of a Community’s borders you can still register to receive alerts.  Simply enter in the name of the Community, or an address inside the Community on the registration page to get started.  Once registered you can either move your “home” pin or create a new one for other locations of interest to you.

9. I didn't receive an email with a verification code. What should I do?

If you signed up to receive email alerts on our registration page and didn’t receive an email with a four-digit verification code, we recommend you try the following:

1. Confirm that the email address you registered with is correct. We recommend checking for typos and verifiying that it has the correct .ca or .com ending. You can verify this by copy & pasting your email address from the Voyent Alert! web-page and trying to send yourself an email to that address.
2. Check your spam or junk folder in your inbox. If their was no email in your spam folder, try to register again and confirm that your contact information was correct.
3. Add the following email address to your email contact list: alert@voyent-alert.com.
4. Login to confirm your Voyent Alert! registration using our login page. This will send a new verification code to your email, which will now be visible in your inbox.
5. If you have requested multiple verification codes, please use the most recent one that was sent to you.

 

For information on how to add an email to your email contact list, please refer to the following help pages:

• Gmail
• Hotmail
• Outlook
• Shaw Webmail
• Sasktel
• Telus Webmail
• Yahoo

 

If you are unable to resolve this issue, please email  voyent.support@icesoft.com

10. I didn't receive a text with a verification code. What should I do?

If you signed up to receive SMS or text alerts on our registration page and didn’t receive a text message with a verification code, we recommend you try the following:

• Confirm that the phone number you provided with is correct.
• Confirm that you are currently in an area with cell reception and coverage.

 

If you are unable to resolve this issue, please email  voyent.support@icesoft.com

11. I didn't receive a voice call with a verification code. What should I do?

If you signed up to receive Voice Call alerts on our registration page and didn’t receive a phone call finalizing your registration, we recommend you try the following:

• Confirm that the phone number you provided with is correct.
• Determine if you are using any call blocking programs. If this is the case you will need to add our phone number: 1-403-282-0818 to your allowed contacts.
• Please note a few communities use their own phone number. If adding this number does not work, please confirm the phone number with a Voyent Alert! administrator in your community.

Adding an allowed contact is different depending on your service provider. We recommend contacting them directly for instructions.

If you are unable to resolve this issue, please email  voyent.support@icesoft.com

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1. Why do we have a siren?

The Town of Slave Lake has installed the siren as part of its emergency notification system. It will only be used when there is potential or immediate concern for personal, property or environmental safety. Its purpose is to alert residents and visitors so they can check other information sources for details on what to do.

2. What does the sound of the siren mean?

If you hear the siren for a repeated 30 second lengths or continuously for up to 3 minutes, it means there is important emergency information available.

3. What do I do when I hear the siren?

If it’s noon the second Thursday of the month and the siren sounds for just 20 seconds, then no action is needed. It’s just the monthly test!

If you hear the siren any other time, follow the instructions found on one of the following Town’s emergency information sources:
- Listen to 92.7 Lake FM Radio
- Visit the Slave Lake Website
- Check Alberta Emergency Alert
- Visit the Town of Slave Lake Facebook page
- Check the Slave Lake Twitter Feed

Find links to the Emergency Information Sources.

4. Who decides when to activate the siren?

The Town’s Director of Emergency Management, usually the CAO makes this decision based on the information at hand. It will only be used when there is personal, property or environmental risk that is within the next 24 to 48 hours, or soon or immediate.

5. Is there an emergency every time I hear the siren?

Not always. There will be a ‘growl’ test on the second Thursday of each month at 12 noon. These will only last for 20 seconds. No action is needed when you hear this. If in doubt, check the Town’s emergency information sources.

6. How long will the siren sound when there is an emergency?

If there is a potential situation that requires residents and visitors to take action, the siren will be sounded intermittently for 30 seconds (30 seconds on, 30 seconds off and then repeated).

If there is an immediate situation that requires residents and visitors to take action, the siren will sound continuously for 3 minutes, followed by a three minute break and then strat up for another three minutes. This will continue as long as deemed necessary.

Both the intermittent and continuous sound mean there could be an emergency and you need to immediately check for instructions.

7. Where is the siren located?

The siren is located on a 45 foot pole at the northwest corner of Government Centre.

8. In what parts of town can I hear the siren?

If you are outside you will be able to hear the siren in many areas of town. It is not meant to be heard inside. It is a rotating siren so the sound will be softer when it is facing another direction. It will also be affected by wind direction, cloud cover, outside noises and other factors.

9. What does the siren sound like?

The siren has three sounds: a steady sound, a fast wail and short wail. The Town will use the Fast Wail for the continuous siren sound.

10. How loud is the siren?

The sound will be the loudest at the centre of town. The siren’s steady sound is 128 decibels at its loudest (about 50 feet from the siren) and 70 decibels at Gloryland, Big Fish Bay and the Northeast Industrial area. Most residential areas will fall within the 100 to 80 decibel range. View the coverage area.

11. Can the siren damage hearing?

The sound of the siren at 70 decibels is similar to an electric pencil sharpener, 100 decibels is similar to the noise from power tools or a snowmobile, and 120 decibels is like an ambulance siren. Only repeated exposure (daily over a couple of years) to these levels can cause damage. Find Noise Induced Hearing Loss Resources.

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1. What do I do if I do not agree with my property tax assessment?

Contact the Assessor from KCL via their website and fill in the inquiry form, this ensures that the assessor gets all the required information. You can also contact KCL Consulting at 1-888-419-2128 [toll free].

2. What do I do if I still do not agree with KCL Consulting?

If you are still certain that your assessment does not reflect what your property would likely sell for on the open market, you may file a written appeal to Assessment Review Board. On the back of your Combined Assessment and Tax Notice it shows the deadlines and steps you must take to file a formal complaint. 

Assessment Appeal Fees:

$50.00 per tax roll for residential properties with 3 or less dwelling units or farm properties.

$650.00 per tax roll for residential properties with 4 or more dwelling units 

$650.00 per tax roll for non-residential properties.

$30.00 per tax roll for Tax Notices other than Business.

$650.00 per tax roll for Linear property-Property Generation

$50.00 per Linear Property Assessment Unit Identification for Linear property Other 

$650.00 for Equalized Assessment

Note: under the Municipal Government Act, Section 460(6). “There is no right to make a complaint about any tax rate..” This means that you cannot appeal your taxes because you feel that they are too high. You only may appeal the assessment. To avoid penalty charges, you must first pay your taxes by June 30th EVEN if you plan to appeal your assessment.

3. I own a Trailer/mobile home in Lynnwood or Westside Village do I pay property taxes?

Designated Manufactured Homes Located at one of the trailers parks Lynnwood and Westside
Under the Municipal Government Act, designated manufactured homes include manufactured homes, mobile homes, modular homes and travel trailers.
In most circumstances, all designated manufactured homes are asses-able and taxable. This does NOT include land; the owner of the park is responsible for paying taxes on the land. The fee that you pay to the mobile home park is only for the pad/lot that you are renting to place your trailer on, this does NOT include water and sewer services or property tax. Homes that are moved into the municipality in the trailer parks MUST fill in the Manufactured Mobile Home Change Report, so that they are assessed and taxed accordingly. If you buy or sell your mobile home, you must also fill in the form.

Note: Taxes are the responsibility of the current owner of the home, even if there are taxes in arrears. Always ensure that any outstanding taxes have been paid in full prior to purchasing a designated mobile home.

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1. What is TIPP?

TIPP is a program available to property owners which allows you to pay your property tax on a monthly basis rather than in a lump sum payment.  Monthly payments are automatically withdrawn from your bank account ( Other options available).  TIPP can make budgeting easier and minimizes the risk of late payment penalties.  Certain conditions apply to qualify for the TIPP program.

As long as you have an account in good standing and ALL prior amounts owing are fully paid you may qualify to enter the TIPP program. 

For property owners who are NOT currently on TIPP, they may wish to consider signing up for TIPP as an alternative payment method to paying a lump sum.

Example:

Payment using the TIPP program

Assuming you qualify and can start in June the payments required would be spread out from June until December. A $3,100 tax notice due by August 31^st , 2020, could instead be paid in monthly installments of $443 over the period of June to December.  This does require payments be made in June, July and August, however using this method only $1,329 is paid by August with the remaining amounts paid September to December.  Other conditions apply if you are interested in the TIPP program please contact us.

2. I’m a Residential property owner and I pay my taxes on a monthly basis. What does this mean for me?

This means you are enrolled in our TIPP(Tax Installment Payment) program.  Unless directed by you, in writing, no less than 10 days in advance of the next payment date, to cancel this plan it will continue on as normal.  If you choose to cancel your monthly payments, the remaining amount owing can be paid any time before August 31, 2020 without penalty.  Please contact the Town office for the form required to cancel.

3. I’m a Non-Residential (Business) property owner and I pay my taxes on a monthly basis. What does this mean for me?

This means you are enrolled in our TIPP (Tax Installment Payment) program.  Unless directed by you, in writing, no less than 10 days in advance of the next payment date, to cancel this plan it will continue on as normal.  If you choose to cancel your monthly payments, the remaining amount owing can be paid any time before August 31, 2020 without penalty.  Please contact the Town office for the form required to cancel.   If you wish to continue paying the municipal portion and lower your monthly payments to defer the education portion please contact the Town office. 

For more information on the TIPP program please contact our office, (Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) by calling 780-849-8000.  We can be reached by email at propertytaxes@slavelake.ca.

4. I’m on a tax contract. What does this mean for me?

The terms and amounts laid out in the contract will remain as written in the contract.  Please contact the Town to discuss your options.

5. When are tax notices being sent out?

Tax notices will be mailed/emailed on Friday, May 1^st, 2020.

6. How will I receive my tax notice?

The Town has always mailed a paper copy to each property owner in prior years.  This year (2020) if you have ALREADY signed up for digital paperless billing you will receive a copy of your tax notice via email.  If you would like to receive a paper copy of your tax notice please contact us at 780-849-8000 or by email at propertytaxes@slavelake.ca.  If you are NOT already signed up for digital paperless billing you will receive a copy of your notice in the mail. If you do not receive a copy of your tax notice either by mail or email please contact us.  A tax notice is deemed to have been received 7 days after it is sent.

 

How can I pay my taxes?

The Town offers multiple options to pay your tax bill. 

• At the Town office – Our current hours of operation to the public are Fridays from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.

Accepted methods of payment at this time are:

• Cash, cheque & debit.  We do not accept Visa or Master card at this time.
• Mail in a cheque payable to the Town of Slave Lake.  Please reference your tax account number and TAXES on your cheque.  Our mailing address is:

Town of Slave Lake
P.O. Box 1030
Slave Lake, AB T0G2A0

• Through your bank online.  The following banks currently allow you to pay your Town of Slave Lake tax bill online:

RBC, Scotia Bank, Servus Credit Union, ATB, CIBC, TD, BMO, TANGERINE

Please contact the bank if you require assistance in setting up payments online.

• You can sign up for paperless billing by filling out an Enrollment in Digital Billing through this link: http://www.slavelake.ca/FormCenter/Utilities-5/Enrollment-in-Paperless-Billing-177

7. I have more questions, how do I contact you?

If you have any questions or require further assistance, please contact the Town Office at 780-849-8000.  We can be reached by email at propertytaxes@slavelake.ca.

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1. When are my taxes due?

Taxes are due June 30^th, 2020.

2. What happens if I do not pay my taxes by June 30th?

The amount is still considered due, however there will be no penalties applied for non-payment until September 1^st, 2020.  This effectively means that you have until August 31^st, 2020 to pay your taxes.  This deferral program applies to both Residential and Non-Residential property owners in the Town of Slave Lake.

3. Can I still pay my taxes earlier than August 31, 2020?

Yes. We are encouraging everyone who has the means and ability to pay taxes prior to August 31^st, 2020 to do so.  In doing so you will be helping to minimize the cash flow challenges facing the municipality.

4. When are tax penalties applied?

Penalty dates have been adjusted for the 2020 year.  The new dates are September 1^st, 2020, October 1^st, 2020 and January 1^st, 2021.

5. What are the penalty rates?

Rates for penalties have been adjusted for the 2020 year.  The rate charged on September 1^st, 2020 is 2%.  The rate charged on October 1, 2020 is 2%.  The rate charged on January 1^st remains at 10%.

6. How are the penalty rates applied?

The September and October penalties are applied to the portion of unpaid taxes for the current 2020 year.  The January rate is applied to the total outstanding balance of all taxes owing. 

Examples

Case 1:

Property Owner A does not pay his 2020 taxes.  What are the applicable penalties for the 2020 year?

 

2020 tax levy = $3,100. This levy is due June 30^th, 2020.  No payments are made in 2020.

On September 1^st, 2020 a penalty is applied.  Unpaid taxes ($3,100) x 2% = $62 penalty.  

On October 1^st, 2020 a penalty is applied.  Unpaid taxes ($3,162) x 2% = $63 penalty.  

On January 1^st, 2021 a penalty is applied.  2020 outstanding balance ($3,100+$62+$63) = Total outstanding balance of $3,225 x 10% = $323 penalty.

 

Case 2:

Property Owner B did not pay his 2020 taxes on June 30^th, 2020 but made the payment in full prior to September 1^st, 2020 :

2020 tax levy = $3,100. This levy is due June 30^th 2020.  No payments are made until August 31^st, 2020.

On August 31^st, 2020, a payment of $3,100 is made to the Town.  All of the taxes were paid prior to September 1^st and are not subject to penalty.

7. I’m a Non-Residential (Business) property owner and I was informed I could defer my education property tax for 6 months. How does this work?

The Province has given municipalities two acceptable approaches to implementing the education property tax deferral for Non-Residential owners.

Approach 1 was to defer six months worth of education property taxes for the period April 1, 2020 to September 30, 2020.

Approach 2 was to take a combined deferral of both municipal and education property tax. 

The Town of Slave Lake has taken approach number 2 to offer a more favorable deferral program to our residents.  All taxes have an effective due date of August 31, 2020.  This is a 62 day deferral on ALL (Municipal, School, Seniors, Other) taxes owing.

8. Does the Town still have to remit to the Province education property taxes?

The Province requires the educational property tax for municipalities be remitted every March, June, September and December.  The Town collects this tax on behalf of the Province, every year, through our yearly tax bill that is normally due June 30^th.  In the event the Town does not receive payment from property owners for this requisition by June 30^th, the Town must still remit to the Province the requested amounts.  This year the Province will be lowering the amount municipalities must remit for June and September however, the amount deferred must be remitted in December.  This can create cash flow problems for the Town and is why we are encouraging all property owners who have the means and ability to pay their taxes by June to do so.

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1. When is my invoice due?

The invoice is still due on the date specified on each invoice.

2. What happens if I don’t pay my bill by the specified date?

The amount is still considered in arrears.  There will be NO penalty applied for non-payment on the account until the June invoice that is due July 24^th.

3. Will I still have penalties applied to my account for prior past due invoices?

No.  All penalties have been suspended for all overdue accounts until the June invoice due July 24^th.  

4. When do penalties start again?

Penalties will be applied on all overdue accounts on July 24^th.

5. Will you disconnect my service if I don’t pay my invoice?

No.  The Town will not disconnect service to residents who are currently unable to pay their utility invoice.

6. How can I pay my invoice?

The Town offers multiple options to pay your bill. 

• At the Town office – Our current hours of operation to the public are Fridays from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.
• Mail in a cheque payable to the Town of Slave Lake.  Our mailing address is:

Town of Slave Lake
P.O. Box 1030
Slave Lake, AB T0G2A0

• Through your bank online.  The following banks currently allow you to pay your Town of Slave Lake utility bill online:

RBC, Scotia Bank, Servus Credit Union, ATB, CIBC, TD, BMO, TANGERINE

Please contact the bank if you require assistance in setting up payments online.

• You can sign up for paperless billing by filling out an Enrollment in Digital Utility Billing through this link, http://www.slavelake.ca/FormCenter/Utilities-5/Enrollment-in-Paperless-Billing-177.

If you have any questions please contact the Town Office at 780-849-8000.

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1. How do I login to my account?

If you are using a mobile app, login simply by opening up Voyent Alert! on your smart device.

For Text/SMS, Email and Voice users, go to our login page and enter your email or phone number. A 4-digit verification code will then be sent to your email or phone. Once you receive it, enter the code and you will be successfully logged in.

2. How do I view an alert?

All alerts and notifications that affect you will be sent directly to your device through your selected method of communication (the app, phone, SMS/Text or email). To learn about the alert simply open up the message or answer your phone.

However, if you would like to review the alert after the initial notification please use the following steps:

Voyent Alert App Users: Open the Voyent Alert! App and select the button on the bottom left of the screen (showing an exclamation point inside of a square). Then select the alert you would like to see.

Text/Email Users: Follow the “Full Details” link sent in the initial notification. This will take you directly to alert.  If you are no longer able to access the initial notification, login to your account here and select ‘Notifications’ in the top right hand corner of the screen.

Voice Users: Login to your account here. Once you have logged in select ‘Notifications’ in the top right hand corner of the screen.

3. How do I add new locations?

Open your Voyent Alert! app or login to your Voyent Alert! account. Once in the system  click on the “My Locations” tab. For web-based users this is located in the top right corner, while it is located in the bottom right hand corner for Mobile App users.

To add a new location simply click and hold a spot on the map and a popup window will appear allowing you to label the new location. Alternatively, you can enter in an address through the “Add Location” button in the top right of the screen or click on a location already shown on the map.

4. How do I move a "My Location"?

Press and hold the name or icon for the location you would like to move.

Once selected drag and drop the icon to the correct location.

5. How do I delete a "My Location"

Open your Voyent Alert! app or login to your Voyent Alert! account. Once in the system  click on the “My Locations” tab. For web-based users this is located in the top right corner, while it is located in the bottom right hand corner for Mobile App users.

Select the name or icon for the location you would like to delete. Once it has been selected, press the trash can image located at the bottom of the pop-up window.

6. What is a topic?

Topics are categories of informational alerts, that you can choose whether you would like to receive them. For example, a Topic may be “Town Events”. If you are not interested in this type of notification you can unsubscribe.

Please refer to the linked FAQ to see how you can unsubscribe from a topic.

You are not able to unsubscribe from any form of critical or emergency alert.

7. How do I subscribe to a topic?

Open your Voyent Alert! app or login to your Voyent Alert! account.

Once in the system hit the Menu button located in the top left (shown as three horizontal lines), then select “My Topics”. Hit the ‘subscribed’ box on the left of the screen for any of the topics you would like to follow. Once a blue check mark appears, select save and you will receive notifications from that topic.

8. How do I unsubscribe from a topic?

Open your Voyent Alert! app or login to your Voyent Alert! account.

Once in the system hit the Menu button located in the top left (shown as three horizontal bars), then select “My Topics”. Hit the ‘subscribed’ box on the left of the screen for any of the topics you would like to unfollow. Once the blue check mark disappears, select ‘Save’ and you will no longer receive notifications from that topi

9. What are the advantages of adding my name to my account?

If you choose to, you have the option to add your name to your account. Adding a name allows your community’s administrators to see who is responding to a question included in an alert. For example, this is helpful in situations where the community is trying to identify who may need assistance evacuating. Your name will only be used by the Voyent Alert! Administrators of the regions you have subscribed to.

10. How do I add my name to my account?

To add your name to your profile, open your Voyent Alert! app or login to your Voyent Alert! account. Once in the system hit the Menu button located in the top left (shown as three horizontal bars), then select “My Profile”. Once in “My Profile” add your details and select save.

11. What are the advantages of sharing my location?

Voyent Alert! uses your location in order to provide the most accurate information in an emergency.  If you are using the mobile app, sharing your location allows the system to identify if you enter an area with an active alert and send you the associated notification. If you choose to not share your location, you will still receive alerts that impact your selected “My Locations” (i.e. Home, Work, etc.)

12. I keep getting asked about location tracking. Why is this?

Recently, phone companies have taken extra measures to ensure your privacy. This includes sending frequent requests to confirm your approval for apps to use your location.  As the Voyent Alert! mobile app can use your location, you may see this warning appear for Voyent Alert!.

Voyent Alert! uses your location in order to provide the most accurate information in an emergency.  If you are using the mobile app, sharing your location allows the system to identify if you enter an area with an active alert and send you the associated notification.

13. Do I have to be in town in order to receive an alert?

No.

Provided you are connected to a mobile service or can access your email, the alerts will get to you wherever you are, even if you are outside your town or region.

14. If I close the app on my device, will I still receive notifications?

Yes. Voyent Alert! uses a “silent notification” mode on mobile devices so the app can be closed at anytime.

15. How can I change how I see Voyent Alert! notifications on my phone?

While each phone is slightly different, we recommend the following:

On your mobile device, go to your settings page and select “Voyent Alert!”. Then select the “Notifications” option. Then, check that that “Allow Notification” toggle is on and green.

While we also recommend that you have “Lock Screen”, “Notification Centre” and “Banners” all checked, editing these will specify how you see notifications when the app is closed.

16. How can I change what sounds I hear for notifications on my phone?

There are a few ways to change the notification sounds on your device. While each phone is slightly different, we recommend checking the following:

• Unmute your phone: The Mobile App will sound, only if your phone’s sound is on.
• Turn on sound for the App: To check this on Apple devices, go to your settings page and select “Voyent Alert!” followed by “Notifications”. Then, check that that “Sounds” toggle is on and green. This will allow the notifications to sound.
• Change the text tone for a Voyent Alert! Contact:  Some individuals may chose to add Voyent Alert! as a recognized contact in their phonebook. As some phones will create (or mute) different ringtones for specific contacts, we recommend checking the contact’s information to see if the ringtone is on. To do this, go to your phone’s contact menu, select the Voyent Alert! contact, and then hit edit. Make sure that both the ringtone and text tone are set to sound that you recognize.

17. How do I respond to a question?

Voyent Alert! allows your community’s administrators to ask a question in an alert. For example, the alert may ask if you need assistance evacuating or if you have any information regarding a local crime watch incident.

To answer the question on the Voyent Alert! App or Email, select the “Respond” button at the bottom of alert message and choose your answer.  SMS/Text Users will have to open the link at the bottom of the message before they are able to respond. At this time, the question feature is unavailable for Voice Calls.

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You are able to edit or change your response as many times as you would like, by repeating the process and ‘re-answering’ the question.

18. How do I transfer my app to a new device?

How you transfer Voyent Alert! depends on the type of device you use. While your individual phone may require something slightly different, we recommend the following:

Apple/ iOS Devices: To transfer your existing app and related Voyent Alert! account to a new iOS device you must first backup your phone and restore the backup to the new device. This will transfer both the Voyent Alert! app and your related user account data to the new device.  Information on how to do this can be found on the iOS backup page on the Apple Support Website.

Android Devices:  To transfer your existing app and related Voyent Alert! account to a new Android device you must first backup your phone and restore the backup to the new device using a 3rd party Android backup/restore service. This should transfer both the Voyent Alert! app and your related account data to the new device.

19. Can I receive alerts if I'm using call control?

In order to receive voice call notifications when using call control, you will need to add our phone number: 1-403-282-0818 to your allowed contacts.

Please note a few communities use their own phone number. If adding this number does not work, please confirm the phone number with a Voyent Alert! administrator in your community.

Adding an allowed contact is different depending on your service provider. We recommend contacting them directly for instructions.

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1. Who is Eligible to Vote?

Local Authorities Election Act, Section 47

A person is eligible to vote in an election held pursuant to this Act if the person:

• is at least 18 years old;
• is a Canadian citizen; and
• resides in Alberta and the person’s place of residence is located in the local jurisdiction on Election Day.

 Note:  An elector is eligible to vote only at the voting station for the voting subdivision in which the elector's place of residence is located on election day (exceptions:  where a voting station is located at a work site; advance vote; incapacitated elector voting at home; institutional vote, and those election officials who have been provided a certificate).

2. Voter Identification

To vote in the 2023 Town of Slave Lake  by-election:

• You must be 18 years of age on Election Day
• You must be a Canadian citizen
• You must be a resident of the Town of Slave Lake
• You must provide authorized ID to verify your identity and place of residence

In order to vote in the upcoming municipal elections, voters will be required to provide proof of their name and home address. The following types of verification meet the standard provincial requirement for one piece of identification.

• Identification issued by a Canadian government, whether federal, provincial or local, or an agency of that government, that contains a photograph of the elector and their name and current address.
• Bank or credit card statement or personal cheque.
• Government cheque or cheque stub.
• Income or property tax assessment notice.
• Insurance policy or coverage card.
• Letter from a public curator, public guardian or public trustee.
• Pension plan statement of benefits, contributions or participation.
• Residential lease or mortgage statement.
• Statement of government benefits (for example, employment insurance, old-age security, social assistance, disability support or child tax benefit).
• Utility bill (for example, telephone, public utilities commission, television, hydro, gas or water).
• Vehicle ownership, registration or insurance certificate.

A letter or form (attestation) confirming that the person lives at the stated address will also be accepted as valid proof. The letter can be signed prior to the vote by any of the following: 

• authorized representative of a commercial property management company;
• authorized representative of a correctional institution;
• authorized representative of a First Nations band or reserve;
• authorized representative of a postsecondary institution;
• authorized representative of a facility that provides services to the homeless; or
• authorized representative of a supportive living facility or treatment centre.

If a voter’s identification shows a post office box number as the address instead of a residential or legal address, it can be accepted as verification of current address if it is in reasonable distance to the voting jurisdiction. The address does not have to be in the voting division or ward. An elected authority could, by bylaw, require additional verification or a combination of verification to establish the person’s specific current address.

3. Rules of Residence

Local Authorities Election Act, Section 48

A person’s place of residence for this Act is governed by the following rules:

• a person may be a resident of only one place at a time for the purposes of voting under this Act;
• if a person has more than one residence in Alberta, that person shall designate one place of residence as the person's place of residence for the purposes of this Act;
• the residence of a person is the place where the person lives and sleeps and to which, when the person is absent, the person intends to return;
• a person does not lose the person's residence by leaving the person's home for a temporary purpose;
• A student who:

• attends an educational institution within or outside Alberta;
• temporarily rents accommodation for the purpose of attending an educational institution; and
• has family members who are resident in Alberta and with whom the student ordinarily resides when not attending an educational institution, is deemed to reside with those family members.

A person shall designate the person's place of residence in accordance with the following factors in the following order of priority:

• the address shown on the person’s driver's license or motor vehicle operator’s license issued by or on behalf of the Government of Alberta or an identification card issued by or on behalf of the Government of Alberta;
• the address to which the person’s income tax correspondence is addressed and delivered; or
• the address to which the person’s mail is addressed and delivered.

4. Advance Vote

All electors are eligible to vote at the advance voting opportunity.

2023 By-Election Advance Voting will be held on the following dates and locations:

March 25th 10AM-4PM at the Town Office: 10 Main Street SW Box 1030 Slave Lake, AB  T0G 2A0.

March 29th 10AM-7PM at the Town Office: 10 Main Street SW Box 1030 Slave Lake, AB  T0G 2A0.

5. Interpreter and/or Elector who is unable to vote in the usual manner

If an elector does not understand the English language, an interpreter may translate the "Instructions for Electors" as well as respond to questions from the elector that are necessary for the purposes of the election.  Before acting as an interpreter, it is required that the person make a statement on the prescribed form; this is the Statement of Interpreter, Elector Who is Unable to Vote in the Usual Manner, Friend or Relative of Elector Who is Unable to Vote in the Usual Manner (Form 17RSE).

If an elector  is unable to vote in the usual manner, they may request assistance.  This assistance may be provided by a Deputy Returning Officer, a friend, or a relative.  The elector must verbally make the prescribed statement which is the Statement of Interpreter, Elector Who is Unable to Vote in the Usual Manner, Friend or Relative of Elector Who is Unable to Vote in the Usual Manner (Form 17RSE).  The friend or relative of the elector is also required to make the Statement of Interpreter, Elector Who is Unable to Vote in the Usual Manner, Friend or Relative of Elector Who is Unable to Vote in the Usual Manner (Form 17RSE).

6. Important Principles of Voting

Local Authorities Election Act, Section 55, 56, 57

Voting is by secret ballot.

Except as permitted in the case of an incapacitated elector, no other person shall be in the voting compartment with the elector.

Except as permitted in the case of an incapacitated elector, no person shall be in a position where he/she is able to see how the elector marks the ballot.

It is an offence for an elector to show his ballot so another person can see how he/she voted, except as permitted in the case of an incapacitated elector.

No person shall be required to reveal how he/she has voted.

An elector may not vote for more than the number of persons to be elected to an office.

If applicable, an elector may vote once on each bylaw or question.

An elector may vote only once in an election.