The Bylaw Enforcement Officer Bylaw establishes the position of Bylaw Enforcement Officer as a Designated Officer for the Summer Village of Bonnyville Beach. It outlines the legal authority, powers, duties, and disciplinary processes required to support effective municipal bylaw enforcement in compliance with the Municipal Government Act (MGA) and other relevant legislation.

Purpose:

The purpose of Bylaw No. 169-2025 is to:

  • Formally create the position of Bylaw Enforcement Officer within the Summer Village.
  • Define the powers, duties, and responsibilities of individuals appointed to this role.
  • Establish clear procedures for discipline and complaint review related to Bylaw Enforcement Officers.
  • Ensure alignment with provincial legislation, including the Municipal Government Act, the Oaths of Office Act, and the Provincial Offences Procedures Act.

Key Provisions

Establishment & Appointment

  • Creates the position of Bylaw Enforcement Officer as a Designated Officer under the MGA.

  • The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) is authorized to appoint one or more officers.
  • Officers report directly to the CAO and must take the Official Oath prior to starting their duties.
  • Officers must carry valid identification confirming their appointment.

Powers, Duties & Responsibilities

Enforcement Powers

Bylaw Enforcement Officers may:

  • Issue warnings, municipal tags, notices, and violation tickets.
  • Exercise all inspection and enforcement authorities granted under Part 13, Division 4 of the MGA.
  • Issue written orders under Sections 545 and 546 of the MGA.
  • Take action to remedy contraventions or address dangers to public safety.

Operational Duties

Officers are responsible for:

  • Enforcing all Summer Village Bylaws.
  • Responding to and investigating complaints.
  • Conducting routine patrols for prevention and detection of violations.
  • Maintaining liaison with the RCMP, provincial agencies, and neighbouring municipalities.
  • Preparing documentation and attending court as required.
  • Providing monthly activity reports to the CAO.
  • Recommending revisions to Bylaws that are challenging to enforce.
  • Carrying out other duties as assigned by the CAO.

Intermunicipal Enforcement

  • Officers may enforce Bylaws in other municipalities where a formal agreement exists

Disciplinary Procedures

  • Complaints must be submitted in writing; anonymous complaints are not investigated.
  • The CAO manages all investigations, including notifying the complainant and officer, gathering evidence, and reviewing documentation.
  • Updates must be provided at least every 45 days.
  • Possible outcomes:
    • Unfounded
    • Unsubstantiated
    • Merit in Part
    • Merit in Whole
  • If a complaint has merit, appropriate disciplinary action is taken.
  • The CAO may dismiss complaints deemed frivolous, vexatious, or made in bad faith.

Severability

  • If any portion of the Bylaw is improperly enacted, the remaining sections remain valid.

Coming into Force

  • The Bylaw takes effect upon final passing, completed on June 26, 2025.