Legacy farm in works
By John Watson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The Town of Strathmore has passed second reading for the Legacy Farm Area Structure Plan (ASP) which proposes a large-scale development of 48 hectares of land.
The ASP, also regarded as bylaw 21-21, saw its first reading passed on Jan. 12. Following that, letters were circulated to 23 adjacent properties to inform them of the project discussions.
“Staff received an application in the summer of 2021 for a new ASP that affects 48 hectares in the southeast of town,” said Megan Williams, a planner with the Town of Strathmore, during the regular town council meeting on Feb. 16.
“The proposed development for this site includes an agri-tourism hub focused on Canadian Pacific Rail’s demonstration farm, which was constructed in the early 1900’s.”
The rest of the ASP is proposed to consist of complimentary use spaces including an RV resort, commercial businesses, institutional uses and agricultural businesses.
“In staff’s opinion, the ASP proposes an attractive, unique and sustainable development that will generate employment opportunities for the community and create a fun and attractive regional tourism destination for residents and tourists,” added Williams.
Project Manager, Michael Von Haussen, said the vision for the Legacy Farm, is to develop it into an agricultural tourism destination and business hub.
Development of the ASP would be broken into six phases, starting at the north of the site, being the farm and the RV resort, described as the “focal point” of the community to support its viability.
“It is envisioned as a dynamic mix of commercial, light agricultural, industrial (and) business uses and institutional research uses that will build on that agricultural theme,” said Von Haussen.
Deputy Mayor Jason Montgomery was curious as to how the ASP would be affected if Alberta Environment and Parks did not approve the removal of the wetland that currently occupies part of the area which would be developed.
Williams clarified that the stormwater management plan would need to be revised, should Alberta Environment and Parks not approve the wetland removal.
According to the ASP owner and developer, Bruce Klaiber, the team would ultimately like to see shovels in the ground as soon as possible, but there are several more steps to get past before a project of this scale can begin.
“I think all of us would like to see (shovels in the ground) starting tomorrow, but due to COVID-19 and the time it takes for approval and whatnot, we have everything on hold at this time,” said Klaiber.
“We would like to know that we have the Town’s approval for the project as well so that when we sit down with interested parties, we can say to them we have the community’s support.”
The next step in the process is to submit a report to Alberta Environment and Parks for evaluation of the project’s impact and gain approval for the ASP.