Knowledge Base: Library Help

Background

Northern Lights Library System (NLLS) calculates municipal levies based on the population figures outlined in the 2019 Municipal Affairs Population List. This approach is required by our Membership Agreement, which specifies that population numbers used for levy calculations must align with those used by the provincial government to determine library operating grants.

Relevant Section of the Membership Agreement

From Section 8.4 of the NLLS Membership Agreement:

“The Population of a municipality, which is a Party to the Agreement, shall be the same population as used for the calculations of library grants as stated in the current Community Development Grants Regulation.”

Why This Matters

The Alberta government bases its public library operating grants on the 2019 Municipal Affairs Population List. By using the same population list, NLLS ensures alignment between:

1. The levy charged to member municipalities, which is currently $5.47 per capita.
2. The provincial grant funding received, which is $5.60 per capita.

Impact of Using the 2019 Population List

• For municipalities where the 2019 population appears higher than recent estimates, this may result in a higher levy.
• However, this also leads to higher grant funding based on the same population figure, ensuring that funding benefits are proportionate.

Options for Changing the Agreement

If a municipality wishes to propose a change to how population figures are used:

• The matter must be brought forward to the NLLS Board.
• Any amendment to the agreement requires a 2/3 vote of approval from the Board, as outlined in Section 17.1 of the Membership Agreement:

  “This Agreement may be amended according to a motion for amendment passed by the Board. Such amendment shall be effective upon receipt by the Board of written notification from 2/3 of the Parties to the Agreement that they have so authorized such amendment.”

Next Steps

• If you have questions or concerns, please reach out to NLLS administration.
• Should you wish to pursue an amendment, contact your NLLS representative to bring the matter forward to the Board.

For reference, the 2019 Municipal Affairs Population List can be accessed here.