Flagstaff County

Flagstaff County provides an affordable cost of living, complemented by plentiful recreational opportunities amidst a tranquil rural setting. Agriculture serves as the backbone of the local economy, with 87% of the region’s land dedicated to crop production. Additionally, the region is home to an agri-food processor specializing in products such as meat snacks, pulse foods, and ready-made meals. The oil and gas industry flourishes, supported by the presence of the Hardisty Energy Hub, representing 11% of the labor force.

To enhance economic growth, the Economic Development Department actively supports businesses in their development endeavors.

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grains in a field

THE OPPORTUNITY

Flagstaff County presents a diverse range of employment opportunities, complemented by an entrepreneurial spirit among its residents. It provides a plethora of programs and services tailored to businesses, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and community development. These initiatives aim to foster a thriving business environment while simultaneously contributing to the well-being and growth of the local community. Key highlights include: 

  • The domain of fabricated metal products manufacturing is poised for substantial expansion in the upcoming years.
  • Exploring the downstream value-chain in commodity agriculture processing holds promise as a long-term growth opportunity for commercial-scale agriculture.
  • The region offers opportunities in bioenergy and solar/wind power. 
  • Tourism opportunities regarding the development of experiential tourism and agritourism.

 

Demographics

Sources: Alberta Regional Dashboard, Statistics Canada

Agriculture

Seeded Acres (Province):

Crop land – 25,650,672
​Canola – 6,521,000 (2022)
​Beans (all dry) – 49,800 (2022)
​Chickpeas – 31,100 (2022)
​Lentils – 550,200 (2022)
​Peas (dry) – 1,323,800 (2022)

Transportation

Highways
13(EW) and 36 (NS) hi load corridor

Rail Access
CN Rail along highway 13 and the dedicated Battle River Railway Shortline 

Air Facilities
Flagstaff Regional Airport. The nearest commercial and air freight facilities are available at Edmonton International Airport (118 miles).

Local Transport Companies
Naber’s Transport Ltd.

Companies Based Locally

Parrish and Heimbecker
Paterson Grain
Richardson Pioneer
Great Northern Grain Terminals
Viterra

Education Institutions

University of Alberta’s Augustana Campus

Utilities & Taxes

Electricity Rates
$10c- $20c/kWh (Farm, provincial, 2023)

Water Rates
Availability of Fresh underground water. $71 for the initial 15 cubic meters, $4 per additional cubic meter (County) 

Gas Rates
$4.16c – $5.23c / GJ (farm and provincial)

Non-residential Municipal Mill Tax Rate
17.70

Broadband Availability
In 2022, Flagstaff County initiated an internet speed testing initiative with the aim of securing funding from the province to enhance the service.

Available Sites

Variety of commercial land and building available.

Incentives

  • Skilled labor enjoys competitive wages and workforce availability (38% of workers possess a post-secondary trade or university certificate, diploma or degree)
  • Low unemployment rates (8% in 2021) 
  • Low housing prices

Why Choose Alberta?

  • Lowest corporate tax rate in Canada and among the lowest in North America.
  • Lowest personal taxes in Canada.
  • Combined federal/provincial corporate income tax rate is 23%.
  • 12% tax credit to companies investing at least $10 million in building or expanding Agri-processing facilities.
  • Property tax incentives to business and industry.
  • Alberta has a tax advantage compared to other provinces.
  • No provincial sales tax, no payroll tax, no health premium.

Contact Flagstaff County

Flagstaff County
12435 Township Road 442, P.O. Box 358
Sedgewick, AB, T0B 4C0
Phone: (780) 384-4100
Fax: (780) 384-3635
www.flagstaff.ab.ca