Go figure

Times contributor 

 

Wheatland County councillors were puzzled that no provincial regulations exist for the establishment of an acreage located across from a confined feeding operation.

“There are concerns about placing feedlots next to residential premises and here we are putting a residence next to a feedlot,” said Councillor Alice Booth, who said she had reservations about the prospect.

The applicants, who are requesting a 6.8 acre building site be re-designated for subdivision away from the original quarter, were aware of the proximity of the feedlot operation and said they consulted guidelines about the appropriate setbacks for the acreage. There were no objections from neighbours or the feedlot about the development of the acreage. 

A spokesperson for the applicant addressed council and stated that while the Municipal Government Act has specific regulations on the establishment of feedlots next to residences, the act is not reciprocal. She said council could consider a tactic used in the High River area, where acreages developed next to feedlots have been asked to register a caveat on the property, alerting potential buyers to possible issues of living next to confined feeding operations.  

Second reading for application was approved with an amendment which included an easement for a natural low lying area on the property.