County seeking more information regarding High Eagle Campground building setbacks

By John Watson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Wheatland County Council is observing the risks associated with the current placement of structures at the High Eagle Campground in Rosebud, as well as the County’s legal liability regarding the buildings. 

The discussion was brought forward due to erosion along Severn Creek, which threatens to damage the currently placed, temporary campground buildings. 

An example of the damage would be if the ground beneath some of the structures began to fall away along the banks, or soften, causing the structures to tip over. 

County administration had recommended at the Nov. 16 council meeting for council to direct them to prepare a report for the Municipal Planning Commission to move the buildings at the High Eagle Campground.

The cost estimate provided by administration for moving the affected structures that do not meet the land use bylaw was roughly $100,000.

Councilor Glenn Koester suggested the cost-benefit of spending the money to have the structures moved to meet the criteria established in the land use bylaw, would not be a favourable investment to the county.

“If it floods, the whole property will flood. It’s flat. Why make a move to another spot for a setback if it’s going to flood from the creek and flood up from the river,” said Koester. “For me personally, I don’t have a problem where those buildings are situated, (nor) am I worried about flooding.”

Councilor Tom Ikert voiced that, assuming the landowners who are responsible for the campground are able to get insurance and the county is not liable, he was inclined to agree with Koester.

“I can’t imagine the years (before) you would have a return on the investment of $100,000,” said Ikert.

There are currently seven buildings on the campground, all but one of which do not meet the requirements of the land use bylaw. 

With one building being grandfathered into place, administration proposed moving the five structures 100 feet back from their current positions so as to meet the bylaw and not be at risk of damage from flooding.

County Reeve Amber Link said her preference was to differ the discussion until more information regarding liabilities and the costs of moving structures were acquired.

“You always have liability whether you’re aware or not, but we have a responsibility here for due diligence. Without question, when something is brought to our attention, we can’t ignore that possibility,” she said.

Koester moved the delaying the request for decision on the matter until more information was made available from administration regarding the County’s legal liability and what mitigations could be put in place. The motion was passed without opposition.