Public hearings for land use bylaw extended

Sharon McLeay
Times Contributor

 

Wheatland County staff said they calculate 95 per cent of resident’s feedback supports the new changes in the land use bylaw (LUB).
“To make a good land use bylaw, we wanted not to work in a bubble, but make sure it worked across the county,” said Colton Nickel, intermediate planner for the county.
Staff said the following received strong support through the public consultation: exemption of development permits for ag holdings and grain bins and silos (currently they require a development permit under the old LUB); greater freedom from permits for home businesses; elimination of animal unit requirements; introduction of “dwelling, garden suite” as a dwelling.
Staff said they focused on economic prosperity, environmental responsibility, social justice and cultural vibrancy in consideration of the rules and regulations, and noted that they were the key pillars noted in the Municipal Development Plan. They hope the draft LUB strikes an appropriate balance of ensuring continued economic growth and environmental protection.
Those attending the public hearing on Sept. 20 still had some concerns and voiced confusion about some of the definitions within the document. Some wanted to know what properties and businesses would be grandfathered under the new guidelines.
There was a suggestion the one mile notification process for development permits be changed to neighbouring land holders, which may be more than one mile away, and that updates be given to the neighbours as developments progress.
Even though staff worked to simplify the LUB and eliminate some of the restrictive clauses in the bylaw, there were concerns that there is still too much regulation in county land-use bylaw. One respondent felt small animals like chickens or rabbits should be allowed on hamlet properties. Also, one kennel owner would like to see a permanent kennel permit issued and attention applied to those facilities currently operating without a permit.
A medical marijuana facility spokesman from Standard had concerns that those types of operations were limited to the Hwy. #1 west industrial area, and stated that the restriction eliminated the job possibilities for more rural residents.
Others felt the “direct control” designations unnecessary. Staff said the direct control is a means to address residents’ needs that don’t fit in other designations and should be kept.
A continuation of the public hearing was tabled to the November Wheatland County council meeting, as all present did not get to speak to council prior to council voting on the important document. Letters can still be sent to the Wheatland planning department and will be given to councillors for their consideration.
For the complete LUB, see the Wheatland County website and watch discussions from Sept. 20 on their recorded video feed.