Development permits denied for Douglas Homes

Sharon McLeay
Times Contributor

 

In an unexpected vote from Wheatland County council, seven development permits for Douglas Homes were denied in one day, through a series of seven votes. Four councillors repeatedly voted against and two accepted the motions to approve the development permits submitted at the August 16 council meeting.
A previous meeting with builders in July 2016 indicated council would show support for builders in the community of Muirfield, to move forward with their projects and work together with county administration.
“The lots are frozen in essence. What does that do to a business when they can’t turn around their inventory? We are absolutely taken back by it,” said Doug Whitney, sales manager for Douglas Homes.
“We felt that we had an accord with those councillors who were in attendance. That they had made a commitment and their word was given. We have acted in good faith. We met their deadlines, dotted our i’s and crossed our t’s. We had people work overtime to meet the deadlines they gave us. Our expectations were further enhanced, as administration told us ‘no worries, you’re good.’ Imagine our shock and surprise. It leaves us in awe.”
Douglas Homes is a builder in the County, working here since 2007. As landowners, they said the company stands shoulder-to-shoulder with all the homeowners in wanting to see the community develop to its potential. Whitney said he is disappointed council has lost sight of the hardships involved in these delaying tactics.
“We cooperate and assist them. The concept of fight is counterproductive. Our heart goes out to the homeowners. They would like to see a finished community with the ability to have services and infrastructure,” said Whitney. “We have shown our commitment to the community and been honourable in our actions.
“We are the only ones who have been there since day one. Others have gone under and left a mess. At the end of day we are being punished for that.”
The vote sent a confused message about long-standing issues that cling to the waste management services for the Muirfield area.
Talks with the Town of Strathmore and the developer are still moving ahead for pipeline construction from Muirfield to Strathmore. There is thought to be two options currently under discussion. However, more details could not be confirmed or released as the issue is subject to third party negotiations and solicitor-client protection under government privacy guidelines.