2024 Municipal Census Results
Download the 2024 Town of Falher Municipal Census Results here
Summary
The Town of Falher’s Census reveals a total population of 1,039 individuals.
In addition to a total counted population of 991, the Town of Falher used Municipal Affairs’ method for counting non-contacted dwellings for an estimate of 48 other persons.
These numbers are an accurate count of persons as counted by the Town of Falher. This information has been officially submitted to Municipal Affairs. While not officially accepted and approved by the Minister of Municipal Affairs at the time of publication, it is anticipated that the numbers will be approved by the end of 2024.
For the census, The Town of Falher utilized software designed and honed by the City of Airdrie. This software has been utilized by several municipalities in the past and accepted into Provincial Population Lists. This software allows for an initial stage of online submissions for census, followed by in-person enumeration for data completion.
Background
The Town of Falher conducted a municipal census from April 15, 2024 to July 15, 2024 in line with the Municipal Census Manual: Requirements and Guidelines for Conducting a Municipal Census
published in December 2022 by Municipal Affairs (Government of Alberta). Census Day was April 15th, 2024.
The Council of the Town of Falher sought greater accuracy and information of residential statistics including demographics, recreation, development, and regionalization.
In addition to accuracy of our demographics, a municipal census will allow our community to collect important data relevant to the continued viability and sustainability of our community including vacant residences and properties, as well as potentially gauge public opinion on regionalization.
Why a Census Now?
In 2019, the Government of Alberta announced its intention to move from municipal census counts to population estimates for the purposes of allocating provincial grants to municipalities. Based on the information provided by the province at the time, issues had been highlighted by numerous municipalities, including the Town of Falher. Much of the province’s methodology relied on data sets which considered “deaths, births, migration, and immigration”. The Town of Falher highlighted that this methodology simply does not work for rural communities. As a result, this new methodology resulted in a new population number, created by the province, but not accepted to their official “population list”.
In addition to this change in process, the Province was not allowing municipalities to submit municipal census data to be accepted to the province’s official population list. This population list is used to determine municipal funding.
In consideration of the 2 separate population numbers listed above, a federal census was completed in 2021 and produced a 3rd number showing a significant drop in population. This was at the same time when the province’s new methodology indicated a small increase in population. These population numbers are included below:
2019-2021 Population – Town of Falher
Information collected for June 2022 Regular Council Meeting
- 2021 Federal Census – 1001
- Provincial Census Subdivision (Municipal) Population Estimates, July 1, 2016, to 2021, Alberta – 1114
- 2019 Population List – 1047
After advocacy meetings with both Hon. Minister Ric McIver and Hon. Minister Rebecca Schulz, the Town of Falher was encouraged to see Ministerial Order No. MSD:001/23 which revised Municipal Census Regulation to allow Municipal Census number to be recognized by the province for official population lists.
Partnership
The 2024 Municipal Census was funded in part by assistance through the Peace Region Economic Development Alliance’s (PREDA) Municipal Project Fund (MPF) and through contributions from Smoky River Regional Economic Development (SRRED). The Town of Falher strongly advocates for regional partnerships in Economic Development and is a proud partner of both organizations.
About PREDA:
The Peace Region Economic Development Alliance (PREDA) is one of 9 Regional Economic Development Alliances (REDA) in the province of Alberta. PREDA is a partnership of 27 municipalities working together to guide regional economic development of Alberta’s northwest – affectionately referred to as the Peace Region.
Their Mission is to continue to grow a vibrant economy that explores, promotes and facilitates new emerging opportunities, competitiveness and innovation. Their Vision is one where the Peace Country has: planned and balanced growth; strong stewardship of its resources; and the ability to proactively manage economic change.
About SRRED:
Smoky River Regional Economic Development is the driving force behind the development and sustainment of quality businesses and employment opportunities in the Smoky River Region. Its mission is to provide progressive business-oriented leadership, fostering industry and government partnerships and advocating for advanced education opportunities to assist in the growth of the business community.
The Smoky River Region provides an excellent opportunity to build and grow businesses of all sizes. With access to a variety of transportation methods, access to water, thousands of acres of farmland, and five supportive municipalities, the region is the perfect place to start a value-added company or agricultural business.
