Draft plan developed for coordinated growth around Sylvan Lake

Phase 1 focused on understanding the opportunities and issues existing in the area and involved public and stakeholder engagement, as well as the review of background studies and reports for the eight municipalities surrounding the lake.

Key areas of focus identified during the process include protecting the environment and watershed, developing trails and outdoor recreation opportunities, improving the ways people access the lake and maintaining the character of the various communities in the area.

Phase 2 took the findings from engagement and background research, to developing a draft plan and policy framework for coordinated growth and development between the partnering municipalities.

Phase 3 will now see a one-day educational session held in Sylvan Lake this fall for partnering councils to review the Draft IDP.

Following that, the process is said to include circulation of the Draft IDP, an anticipated November Open House at the NexSource Centre and implementation of the IDP.

According to officials, the final piece of engagement will be a joint public hearing between the eight municipalities next February, offering the last opportunity for feedback on the Plan.

Once the steering Committee determines no further issues or concerns, it’s anticipated each municipality may consider second and third reading of the Sylvan Lake Intermunicipal Development Plan.

On Oct. 26, 2018, the Province of Alberta approved a number of amendments to the Municipal Government Act (MGA), including a requirement for all municipalities in the province that share a common boundary, to develop and have in place an Intermunicipal Development Plan and Intermunicipal Collaborative Framework (ICF) by spring of 2020.

Neighbouring municipalities that already have an existing IDP are required to update the Plan in order to comply with the new regulations.

by Sheldon Spackman

Draft plan developed for coordinated growth around Sylvan Lake

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