Jones Estate in court
A judicial review has been filed by the developer, Hazkar Developments Inc., regarding council's fall decision on the four acre parcel of land located next to the Vistas in GlenEagles known as the "Jones Estate."
After nearly three years in and out of chambers, council opted to leave the land as urban reserve rather than the much debated single-family home designation previously thought of as a solution – both of which are a far cry from the 11 units desired by the developer.
The decision was the result of extensive community feedback, where most GlenEagles residents who spoke on the matter at the public hearing and the months leading up to it were vehemently opposed to any development on the site – citing stormwater drainage, ground stability, access, roadway widths and safety among the lengthy list of concerns brought to the attention of council.
The court could dismiss the application, meaning the previous decision by council to defeat the bylaw would stand, or they may direct council to reconsider the matter and provide direction on what council must consider in doing so.
A timeline for the court's decision is unknown.
Off-leash criteria adopted
Council unanimously adopted off-leash dog park criteria, which will guide future dog parks in new subdivisions and one existing in Sunset Ridge.
The criteria was the work of the parks and open spaces department, based off of input from citizen group, OLAG (Off Leash Advocacy Group) and the recent work of the parks and recreation committee.
The criteria includes considerations such as setbacks, interface with wildlife corridors, access, clear boundaries, garbage bins, fencing and not being on a school or sports field.
The town currently has several off leash areas: Jim Uffelmann Memorial Park (20 acres), Riverfront Park (west of the arboretum; fenced and unfenced areas of 1.5 and 0.8 acres); Heritage Hills (0.15 acreas) fenced park for small dogs; and Highway 22 dog park, (north 5.5 acres and south 1.1 acres for small dogs) – with both areas being fenced.
Future off-leash areas are planned in Sunset Ridge Phase 3, Fireside, Southbow Landing and Heritage Hills.
Off-leash areas are estimated to cost between $100,000 and $300,000 depending on size and fencing requirements.
Public hearings
A public hearing was held for a proposed car wash at 354 Railway Street. Council questioned the traffic backlog that may result in that location. No speakers, aside from the applicant were heard from.
A public hearing was held on Sunset Ridge Stage 3 Neighbourhood Plan. The next stage of development would begin with the build of a second access (intersection). Stage 3 includes eventual build-out for some 1800 residents, with the first units available as early as 2023.
Committee appointments
Council appointed Bill Cooper and Penny Mellor as public-at-large members to the Assessment Review Board, effective Feb. 25, 2019 for a term to expire Dec. 31, 2021.
Council appointed Robin Usher as a public-at-large member to the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board, as an alternate, effective February.
Council appointed Coun. Reed to the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board, effective February 25, 2019 for a term to expire Oct. 25, 2019.
