BEAVER COUNTY RESPONDS TO TOWN OF VIKING'S DECISION ON CULVERT PROJECT

After two and a half years of intermunicipal discussion, Beaver County received a letter from the Town of Viking regarding the culvert replacement project, advising of their decision to “shelve” the initiative for the time being.

The culvert replacement project was initially requested by the Town of Viking following the receipt of their Stormwater Management Plan in 2021. This Plan recommended drainage upgrades on Range Road 130 to ensure proper water flow through the Town and to potentially reduce the risk of flooding. However, during discussions, the Town requested the installation of Water Flow Control Gates on the new culverts to withhold water for the Viking Golf & Country Club’s irrigation. The County raised concerns, as withholding water is not supported or recommended in the Stormwater Management Plan.

In an effort to reach a compromise and demonstrate goodwill, Beaver County agreed to cover the entire cost of the culverts. However, the County could not agree to fund the water flow control gates, as these are required under the water diversion license held by the Viking Golf and Country Club, which is legally responsible for diverting and controlling the water.

It is the County’s standard practice to use written construction agreements for all joint projects to protect both parties and clearly assign responsibilities. This helps prevent confusion and ensures clarity, especially regarding any impact on County or Town infrastructure. After consulting with legal representatives, the County drafted an agreement that would allow the Town to install, maintain, and operate the water flow control gates while protecting the County from any potential liabilities. However, the Town chose to not to sign the agreement.

For these reasons, Beaver County Council regrets to announce that the replacement of the culvert on Range Road 130 will not proceed. However, the County will continue to maintain and upgrade infrastructure according to our road maintenance and culvert replacement program criteria.

Throughout this process, Beaver County Council has been mindful and respectful of the relationship between the two municipalities. To maintain this positive relationship, all project discussions were held confidentially in Council closed sessions and intermunicipal committee meetings.  Beaver County will continue to work towards cooperative solutions that benefit all parties involved.

-30-

For more information please contact:

Tracey Popick, Communications Coordinator: tpopick@beaver.ab.ca