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Town of Coaldale
Intermunicipal Development Plan Bylaw 861-P-01-23
March 13, 2023
BYLAW NO. 861-P-01-23
TOWN OF COALDALE
PROVINCE OF ALBERTA
BEING A BYLAW OF THE TOWN OF COALDALE
TO ADOPT THE COUNTY OF LETHBRIDGE AND THE
TOWN OF COALDALE
INTERMUNICIPAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN
WHEREAS Bylaw 861-P-01-23 of the Town of Coaldale is for the purpose of adopting
the County of Lethbridge and Town of Coaldale Intermunicipal Development Plan in
accordance with sections 631 and 692 of the Municipal Government Act, Revised
Statutes of Alberta 2000, Chapter M-26, as amended.
AND WHEREAS municipalities are encouraged by the province to expand intermunicipal
planning efforts to address common planning issues and where the possible effects of
development transcend municipal boundaries.
AND WHEREAS the Intermunicipal Development Plan outlines policies that apply to
lands in the urban fringe area and within parts of the town and is to be used as a
framework for decision making in each municipality with input and cooperation of the other
jurisdiction.
AND WHEREAS both the Councils of Lethbridge County and the Town of Coaldale agree
that it is to their mutual benefit to establish joint planning policies, and this negotiation and
agreement reflects a continuing cooperative approach between the two municipalities and
the desire to see well-planned, orderly, and managed growth.
AND WHEREAS the municipality must prepare a corresponding bylaw and provide for its
consideration at a public hearing.
NOW THEREFORE, under the authority and subject to the provisions of the Municipal
Government Act, Revised Statutes of Alberta 2000, Chapter M-26 as amended, the
Council of the Town of Coaldale duly assembled hereby enacts the following:
1.
That Bylaw 631-P-02-10, and 785-P-07-20 be rescinded.
2.
Council shall adopt the Lethbridge County and the Town of Coaldale Intermunicipal
Development Plan in consultation and as agreed to with Lethbridge County.
3.
This plan, upon adoption, shall be cited as the Lethbridge County and the Town of
Coaldale Intermunicipal Development Plan Bylaw 23-005 and Bylaw 861-P-01-23.
Page 1 of 59
Page 2 of 2
Town of Coaldale
Intermunicipal Development Plan Bylaw 861-P-01-23
March 13, 2023
4.
This bylaw shall come into effect upon third and final reading thereof.
READ a FIRST time this 27th day of February,2023 for Intermunicipal Development Plan
861-P-01-23.
___________________________
___________________________
Mayor - Jack Van Rijn
CAO - Kalen Hastings
Motion #: 50-2023
The Public Hearing for Intermunicipal Development Plan 861-P-01-23 was held at
5:05pm at the Regular Council Meeting on March 13, 2023.
READ a SECOND time this 13th day of March, 2023, for Intermunicipal Development
Plan 861-P-01-23.
___________________________
___________________________
Mayor - Jack Van Rijn
CAO - Kalen Hastings
Motion #: 66-2023
READ a THIRD and FINAL time this 13th day of March, 2023, for Intermunicipal
Development Plan 861-P-01-23.
___________________________
___________________________
Mayor - Jack Van Rijn
CAO - Kalen Hastings
Motion #: 67-2023
Page 2 of 59
INTERMUNICIPAL
DEVELOPMENT
PLAN
Bylaw No. 23-005 and Bylaw No. 861-P-01-23
Lethbridge County
&
Town of Coaldale
Page 3 of 59
Page 4 of 59
Page 5 of 59
Page 6 of 59
4.
This bylaw shall come into effect upon third and final reading thereof.
READ a FIRST time this 27th day of February,2023 for lntermunicipal Development Plan
861-P-01-23.
The Public Hearing for lntermunicipal Development Plan 861-P-01-23 was held at
5:05pm at the Regular Council Meeting on March 13, 2023.
READ a SECOND time this 13th day of March, 2023, for lntermunicipal Development
Plan 861-P-01-23.
CA
READ a THIRD and FINAL time this 13th day of March, 2023, for lntermunicipal
Development Plan 861-P-01-23.
CA @len Atings
Page 2 of 2
Town of Coaldale
lntermunicipal Development Plan Bylaw 861-P-01-23
March 13, 2023
Page 7 of 59
Table of Contents
PART 1 - INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................................................. 1
1.1
Purpose of the Plan ........................................................................................................................ 1
1.2
Legislative Requirements ............................................................................................................... 1
1.3
Guiding Principles .......................................................................................................................... 4
1.4
Plan Goals ...................................................................................................................................... 4
Procedure for Adoption .............................................................................................................................. 5
PART 2 - IDENTIFICATION OF ISSUES AND AREAS OF COMMONALITY ...................................................... 6
Extensive Agriculture ................................................................................................................................. 6
2.2
Intensive Agriculture ...................................................................................................................... 6
2.3
Industrial/Commercial Land Uses ................................................................................................... 6
2.4
Urban Expansion and Annexation .................................................................................................. 6
2.5
Land Uses and Development Standards ......................................................................................... 7
2.6
Transportation and Road Networks ............................................................................................... 7
2.7
Shared Services & Economic Development Cooperation ............................................................... 7
2.8
Area of Special Consideration ........................................................................................................ 7
2.9
Reciprocal Policies ......................................................................................................................... 7
2.10
Planning and Administrative Issues ................................................................................................ 7
Part 3 - BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS ........................................................................................................ 8
3.1
Background.................................................................................................................................... 8
3.2
Existing Planning Documents, Agreements & Partnerships ........................................................... 8
3.3
Land Use and Zoning ..................................................................................................................... 8
3.4
Agricultural Practices ..................................................................................................................... 8
3.5
Existing Subdivision and Development .......................................................................................... 9
3.6
Projected Growth ........................................................................................................................... 9
PART 4 - ADMINISTRATION ......................................................................................................................... 11
4.1
Addressing Provincial Regional Planning Requirements ................................................................ 11
4.2
Addressing Municipal Amendments and Plan Validity .................................................................. 11
4.3
Intermunicipal Development Plan Committee ............................................................................. 12
Page 8 of 59
4.4
Intermunicipal Referrals ................................................................................................................ 13
4.5
Dispute Settlement ...................................................................................................................... 16
PART 5 - INTERMUNICIPAL LAND USE POLICIES ....................................................................................... 18
5.1
Land Use ...................................................................................................................................... 18
5.2
General Development Standards ................................................................................................. 19
5.3
Agricultural Practices ................................................................................................................... 20
5.4
Subdivision and Residential Uses ................................................................................................. 22
5.5
Industrial and Other Non-Agricultural Uses .................................................................................. 24
5.6
Urban Expansion and Annexation ................................................................................................ 25
5. 7
Transportation and Road Networks ............................................................................................. 26
5.8
Mutual Benefit and Cooperation .................................................................................................. 28
Part 6 - MAPS .............................................................................................................................................. 29
Part 7 - DEFINITIONS ................................................................................................................................... 36
APPENDIX A - Lethbridge County and Town of Coaldale Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) ............. 44
Page 9 of 59
PART 1 - INTRODUCTION
1.1
Purpose of the Plan
Lethbridge County (County) and the Town of Coaldale (Town)
recognize that the land identified within the Intermunicipal
Development Plan (IDP) boundary is of mutual interest requiring a
collaborative approach to planning in this area. The Intermunicipal
Development Plan addresses existing and future land uses and the
policies around sound decision making to avoid future land use
conflicts and to foster on-going coordination, collaboration, and
cooperation between the two municipalities.
The Town and the County share common interests and goals for
development wishing to grow in a manner that compliments the
agricultural environment while capitalizing on established
infrastructure such as the Highway network (Highways 3, 845 and
512), Malloy Drainage Master Plan, and irrigation works.
This plan has been prepared in accordance with the Municipal
Government Act (MGA) and the provincial South Saskatchewan
Regional Plan (SSRP) which encourage cooperation and coordination between neighbouring municipalities.
In keeping with the intent of the MGA and SSRP, both the Town and the County agree to collaborate on
planning matters and ensure that development occurs in a manner that is efficient and mutually beneficial.
Each municipality, however, is ultimately responsible for making decisions within their municipal jurisdiction
using the policies and procedures as provided for in this Plan.
1.2
Legislative Requirements
Municipal Government Act
Recent updates to the Municipal Government Act, Revised Statutes of Alberta 2000, Chapter M-26 with
amendments (MGA) now mandate the adoption of IDPs between adjacent municipalities. Specifically, the
MGA states:
631(1) Subject to subsections (2) and (3), 2 or more councils of municipalities that have common boundaries
and that are not members of a growth region as defined in section 708.01 must, by each passing a bylaw in
accordance with this Part or in accordance with sections 12 and 692, adopt an intermunicipal development
plan to include those areas of land lying within the boundaries of the municipalities as they consider
necessary.
(2) Subsection (1) does not require municipalities to adopt an intermunicipal development plan with each
other if they agree that they do not require one, but any of the municipalities may revoke its agreement at
any time by giving written notice to the other or others, and where that notice is given the municipalities
must comply with subsection (1) within one year from the date of the notice unless an exemption is ordered
under subsection (3).
Page 10 of 59
(3) The Minister may, by order, exempt one or more councils from the requirement to adopt an
intermunicipal development plan, and the order may contain any terms and conditions that the Minister
considers necessary.
(4) Municipalities that are required under subsection (1) to adopt
an intermunicipal development plan must have an intermunicipal
development plan providing for all of the matters referred to in
subsection (8) in place by April 1, 2020.
(5) If 2 or more councils that are required to adopt an
intermunicipal development plan under subsection (1) do not have
an intermunicipal development plan in place by April 1, 2020
because they have been unable to agree on a plan, they must
immediately notify the Minister and the Minister must, by order,
refer the matter to the Land and Property Rights Tribunal for its
recommendations in accordance with Part 12.
(6) Where the Minister refers a matter to the Land and Property Rights Tribunal under this section, Part 12
applies as if the matter had been referred to the Tribunal under section 514(2). (7) Two or more councils of
municipalities that are not otherwise required to adopt an intermunicipal development plan under
subsection (1) may, by each passing a bylaw in accordance with this Part or in accordance with sections 12
and 692, adopt an intermunicipal development plan to include those areas of land lying within the
boundaries of the municipalities as they consider necessary.
(8) An intermunicipal development plan
(a) must address
(i)
the future land use within the area,
(ii)
the manner of and the proposals for future development in the area,
(iii)
the provision of transportation systems for the area, either generally or
specifically,
(iv)
the co-ordination of intermunicipal programs relating to the physical, social and
economic development of the area,
(v)
environmental matters within the area, either generally or specifically, and (vi)
any other matter related to the physical, social or economic development of the
area that the councils consider necessary,
and
(b) must include
(i)
a procedure to be used to resolve or attempt to resolve any conflict between the
municipalities that have adopted the plan,
(ii)
a procedure to be used, by one or more municipalities, to amend or repeal the plan,
and
(iii)
provisions relating to the administration of the plan.
(9) Despite subsection (8), to the extent that a matter is dealt within a framework under Part 17.2, the
matter does not need to be included in an intermunicipal development plan.
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(10) In creating an intermunicipal development plan, municipalities must negotiate in good faith
South Saskatchewan Regional Plan
In addition to the MGA, the South Saskatchewan Regional Plan (SSRP) came into effect September 1, 2014.
The SSRP uses a cumulative effects management approach to set policy direction for municipalities to
achieve environmental, economic, and social outcomes within the South Saskatchewan Region until 2024.
Pursuant to Section 13 of the Alberta Land Stewardship Act, regional plans are legislative instruments. The
SSRP has four key parts including the Introduction, Strategic Plan, Implementation Plan and Regulatory
Details Plan. Pursuant to section 15(1) of ALSA, the Regulatory Details of the SSRP are enforceable as law
and bind the Crown, decision makers, local governments and all other persons while the remaining portions
are statements of policy to inform and are not intended to have binding legal effect.
The Regional Plan is guided by the vision, outcomes and intended directions set by the Strategic Plan
portion of the SSRP, while the Implementation Plan establishes the objectives and the strategies that will be
implemented to achieve the regional vision. As part of the Implementation Plan, Section 8: Community
Development includes guidance regarding Plan Cooperation and Integration between municipalities with
the intention to foster cooperation and coordination between neighbouring municipalities and between
municipalities and provincial departments, boards and agencies. Section 8 contains the following broad
objectives and strategies.
Objectives
-
Cooperation and coordination are fostered among all land use planners and decision-makers
involved in preparing and implementing land plans and strategies.
-
Knowledge sharing among communities is encouraged to promote the use of planning tools
and the principles of efficient use of land to address community development in the region.
Strategies
8.1
Work together to achieve the shared environmental, economic, and social outcomes in the South
Saskatchewan Regional Plan and minimize negative environmental cumulative effects.
8.2
Address common planning issues, especially where valued natural features and historic resources are of
interests to more than one stakeholder and where the possible effect of development transcends jurisdictional
boundaries.
8.3
Coordinate and work with each other in their respective planning activities (such as in the development
of plans and policies) and development approval process to address issues of mutual interest.
8.4
Work together to anticipate, plan and set aside adequate land with the physical infrastructure and
services required to accommodate future population growth and accompanying community development needs.
8.5
Build awareness regarding the application of land-use planning tools that reduce the impact of
residential, commercial and industrial developments on the land, including approaches and best practices for
promoting the efficient use of private and public lands.
8.6
Pursue joint use agreements, regional services commissions and any other joint cooperative
arrangements that contribute specifically to intermunicipal land use planning.
Page 12 of 59
8.7
Consider the value of intermunicipal development planning to address land use on fringe areas, airport
vicinity protection plan or other areas of mutual interest.
8.8
Coordinate land use planning activities with First Nations, irrigation districts, school boards, health
authorities and other agencies on areas of mutual interest.
The above strategies were considered by both municipalities when developing policy within this IDP and will
be considered when rendering land use decisions pertaining to development within the Plan Area. Other
strategies contained in the SSRP should be considered in the context of each municipality's Municipal
Development Plan, Land Use Bylaw or through policies found within this Plan.
1.3
Guiding Principles
1. The Town of Coaldale and Lethbridge County will maintain a relationship built on clear
expectations, cooperation and trust supported through creating processes for open and honest
communication.
2. The Town of Coaldale and Lethbridge County will work together to advance the region's interests
while remaining mindful of each municipality's vision and mandate.
3. The Town of Coaldale and Lethbridge County will collaboratively address planning issues, including
future growth and development activity, referrals and circulations, and plan amendments.
4. The Town of Coaldale and Lethbridge County will establish and maintain public consultation
requirements concerning planning matters that may affect either municipality.
5. The Town of Coaldale and Lethbridge County will support the coordination of regional and
intermunicipal services and amenities.
6. The Town of Coaldale and Lethbridge County will ensure that the policies of this Plan are
consistently and reasonably implemented.
1.4
Plan Goals
The two participating municipalities' overall goal of this plan is to encourage orderly and economical
development in the Coaldale fringe area based on the designated plan boundary that has regard to the
needs of both municipalities. More specific goals are as follows:
-
To address the Municipal Government Act requirements with respect to intermunicipal
conflict resolution procedures, plan administration, and plan amendments.
-
To provide a clear policy framework to guide future land use decisions, by both
municipalities, for lands located within the plan boundaries.
-
To facilitate sound development, growth and economic opportunities for both
municipalities based on shared land use strategies.
-
To establish clear principles whereby both municipalities may consistently apply planning
policies and land use bylaw decisions within their respective jurisdictions, which respect the
goals and objectives of this plan.
-
To provide for a continuous planning process that facilitates ongoing consultation,
collaboration, and cooperation between the two municipalities.
Page 13 of 59
-
To provide for a continuous and transparent planning process that facilitates ongoing
consultation and cooperation among the two municipalities and affected landowners and
citizens.
-
To establish an agreeable planning approach to identify possible areas to enter into joint
ventures and agreements for more efficient planning and potential delivery of services.
-
To enable both municipalities to grow and prosper together in a regional context and to
identify logical areas to accommodate future development and growth, as agreed to by
both parties.
-
To achieve a balance of land uses compatible with agriculture, urban interest, economic
growth and sustainable development practices.
Procedure for Adoption
The County and the Town prepared the Plan in accordance with the
requirements of the MGA, including advertising and conducting a public
consultation process, prior to passing the respective adopting bylaws.
This Plan comes into effect on the last date it was adopted by both the
Town and the County by bylaw, after receiving three readings of the
bylaw(s) by Council.
Page 14 of 59
PART 2 - IDENTIFICATION OF ISSUES AND AREAS OF
COMMONALITY
Extensive Agriculture
Much of the plan area is used for extensive agriculture and crop
production, while there are also some mixed farming
operations. Good quality land is worth protecting, but there is
pressure to develop these lands as their land value increases the
closer proximity to town they are.
Impacts or problems have traditionally occurred between
agriculture uses and urban areas in terms of:
-
Noise from farm equipment
-
Dust from hauling or harvesting activities
-
Odour from feeding operations or the spreading of
manure
-
Flies generated from feeding operations
-
Weed control
-
Insect control and pesticide application
-
Potential environmental problems from agricultural runoff; and
-
Irrigation
Agricultural operations may also experience impacts of urban proximity in terms of:
-
Increased traffic on rural roads
-
Garbage and waste dumping
-
Trespass and property vandalism
-
Complaints against normal farming practices
-
Weed control
2.2
Intensive Agriculture
Currently, new confined feeding operations are prohibited in the designed Rural Urban Fringe, however, the
final decision on any new or expanding operations is up to the NRCB Natural Resources Conservation Board
(NRCB).
2.3
Industrial/Commercial Land Uses
Industrial and commercial uses typically increase in the fringe areas around an urban area. Both
municipalities respect each other's desire for commercial and industrial developments and agree that
growth in this regard is properly managed. The Town and County have identified the areas around the
existing industrial park (north end of Coaldale) and along Highway 3 as suitable areas for industrial and
commercial development (see Map 2).
2.4
Urban Expansion and Annexation
In 2018 the Town of Coaldale was successful in annexing sufficient land for 25 years of development. Any
future growth plans of the Town beyond what was annexed in 2019 will be discussed with the County in the
One of Lethbridge County's numerous intensive
livestock operations
Page 15 of 59
future. The Town and the County agreed through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in
September 2016 that the western boundary of the Town will not be expanded any further (see Appendix A).
2.5
Land Uses and Development Standards
Poorly planned developments can create impacts that go beyond individual property lines or municipal
boundaries. Consideration for applying some development standards between municipal jurisdictions
warrants review, especially regarding professional information for developments within the urban fringe
area of the County and on adjacent lands within the Town.
2.6
Transportation and Road Networks
Provincial plans for Highway 3 and the Canamex corridor will affect both municipalities. The County and the
Town should work cooperatively to form policies that address and take advantage of the pressure for
development that will likely result. The local road network inter-connects through both municipalities as it
moves persons and goods through the region.
2.7
Shared Services & Economic Development Cooperation
There is provincial support for shared services and tax revenue between municipalities in some situations.
Economic growth and development of the Town and County are linked, and additional cooperative
agreements may be investigated and pursued by the two municipalities. Both the County and the Town see
opportunities in working together to bring municipal services to future intensive development areas.
Services and service sharing may be discussed including the topics of:
-
Availability
-
Cost and tax sharing
-
Process for implementation
2.8
Area of Special Consideration
There are specific areas that warrant further investigation and
consideration by both municipalities including:
-
Stormwater drainage and the Malloy Drain
-
Birds of Prey Centre
2.9
Reciprocal Policies
The Intermunicipal Development Plan should consider both sides
of the municipal boundary, not just one or the other. In each land use policy area, the reciprocal nature of
the policy should be discussed, and such policies should apply to area structure plans, engineered plans,
stormwater plans, referral notifications on applications, so that each municipality is following a common
practice, and gives each other the same courtesy.
2.10 Planning and Administrative Issues
For a plan to be successful, clear processes will need to be outlined in the plan to enable both municipalities
and their administrative staff to implement and monitor the plan. The administration section should
address referrals and notifications, meetings, role of ongoing committee, staff roles and authority in
implementing the plan, ongoing public participation, dispute resolution, and the update and amendment
process for the Plan.
Birds of Prey Centre
Page 16 of 59
Part 3 - BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
3.1
Background
Lethbridge County and the Town of Coaldale recognize the importance of working together for the benefit
of not only the two municipalities but also the region as a whole. The IDP addresses the fact that there are
different pressures, problems and opportunities that exist in the fringe areas surrounding the Town of
Coaldale.
3.2
Existing Planning Documents, Agreements & Partnerships
Lethbridge County and the Town of Coaldale have jointly agreed to having an Intermunicipal Development
Plan since the mid 1990's with the first Joint Municipal Development Plan coming into effect on March of
1994. The most recent IDP was approved February of 2010 with an amendment approved in September
2020. It was determined with the 2020 amendment that a more robust review and update was required to
the IDP to appropriately reflect the current state of development and cooperation between the Town and
the County.
The policies and intent of the IDP are consistent with those that had been previously adopted but bring the
document relevant to the current date.
3.3
Land Use and Zoning
The Plan area largely reflects the lands within Lethbridge County. The lands contained within the plan area
are primarily designated as Rural Urban Fringe and Rural Agriculture. There is a small Grouped Country
Residential area to the southwest of the plan area as well as a portion of a parcel zoned Direct Control.
Within the Town of Coaldale, the zoning is variable with Urban Reserve land mainly located on the west and
south of the town, Industrial land in the north/north-east, and a mix of land use districts on the eastern side
of the town consisting of Urban Reserve, Institutional, Utility, and Manufactured Home Park. Much of the
lands that are designated Urban Reserve within the town area will be rezoned in the future as documented in
the Town's Municipal Development Plan. The current zoning is
noted in Map 2.
Land uses within the plan area are predominantly agricultural,
with some country residential acreages and agricultural services
development making up the rest of the land uses within the
area. Most of the agricultural parcels area intact with only a
small number of parcels that have been fragmented beyond the
first parcel (county residential yard) taken out of the agricultural
quarter section. Some fragmentation in the area has occurred
due to the location of irrigation canal and works particularly on
the east and north sides of the Plan area. Map 3 illustrates the
existing land uses in the Plan Area.
3.4
Agricultural Practices
Map 4 identifies the Canadian Land Inventory (CLI) soil classification and agricultural capability of the lands
(see Definitions for soil classification). Much of the plan area is of high quality, class 1 and 2, especially the
land on the west portion of the Town.
Page 17 of 59
The South Saskatchewan Regional Plan (SSRP) outlines policies with respect to agriculture with which all
municipal plans, including Intermunicipal Development Plans, should comply. These include:
8.19
Identify areas where agricultural activities, including extensive and intensive agricultural and
associated activities, should be the primary land use in the region.
8.20
Limit the fragmentation of agricultural lands and their premature conversion to other, non-
agricultural uses, especially within areas where agriculture has been identified as a primary land use
in the region. Municipal planning, policies and tools that promote the efficient use of land should be
used where appropriate to support this strategy.
8.21
Employ appropriate planning tools to direct non-agricultural subdivision and development to areas
where such development will no constrain agricultural activities, or to area of lower-quality
agricultural lands.
8.22
Minimize conflicts between intensive agricultural operations and incompatible land uses by using
appropriate planning tools, setback distances and other mitigating measures.
There are a small number of existing confined feeding operations (CFO's) within the plan area. Approvals for
CFO's and the application and management of manure lies solely with the Natural Resources Conservation
Board (NRCB). Prior to approving the establishment or expansion of a CFO, the approval officer of the
NRCB will review local municipal plans (including this IDP where applicable) and request comments from
affected municipalities. The "Agricultural Operations Practices Act Standards and Administration
Regulation" generally limits the establishment or expansion of CFOs in designated fringe areas through the
application of a minimum distance separation.
3.5
Existing Subdivision and Development
The plan area has some fragmentation, particularly around existing irrigation infrastructure (i.e. canals)
which created cut off parcels. Over the last ten years the most prevalent type of subdivision activity within
Lethbridge County has been in the form of farmsteads being subdivided from the quarter section.
Lethbridge County allows for the subdivision of a single parcel from the quarter section without requiring
any additional planning or redesignation (rezoning). Any subdivision beyond the first parcel out of the
quarter section would require the parcel be redesignated to the appropriate land use district and may require
additional planning documentation such as a conceptual design scheme or area structure plan.
With the Town of Coaldale there has been residential subdivision and development along the east side of the
town. On the west side there is the development of the joint school and recreation facility along with
planning for future residential subdivision and development. In the north end of the Town, there are plans in
place for the expansion of the industrial park which will abut Highway 845. After the annexation of
Lethbridge County lands in 2018 the Town has been continuing to work with the country residential
subdivisions included in that annexed area.
3.6
Projected Growth
Residential
The Town of Coaldale has experienced significant growth over the last 10-year period. Residential growth
within the town boundaries is expected to continue on the west side of the town (both north and south of
Highway 3) and also on the east side of the town (south of Highway 3) and noted on Map 5. Lethbridge
County has not had significant residential growth within the plan area and does not anticipate significant
growth opportunities within the plan area except for a few parcels as noted in Map 5.
Page 18 of 59
Commercial/Industrial
Industrial and commercial growth is anticipated in both the Town and the County. Within the town the
north industrial park is planned to expand to the lands to the west, abutting Highway 845 and also the area
along Highway 3 on the west side of the town. Within the County lands have been designated for future
industrial or commercial uses around the areas abutting Highway 3 to the west of the town and also the
lands surrounding the towns wastewater lagoons and industrial park on the north side of the town. Map 6
illustrates the approximate location of these areas.
No areas within the plan area have been identified for annexation to support the growth of the Town at this
point in time as the lands annexed in 2018 are deemed to be sufficient for the next 20-30 years of growth for
the Town of Coaldale.
Page 19 of 59
PART 4 - ADMINISTRATION
4.1
Addressing Provincial Regional Planning Requirements
Intent
With the adoption of the South Saskatchewan Regional Plan (SSRP) the Town of Coaldale and Lethbridge
County are under the mandate of this legislation and will need to comply with the adopted regional plan
policies.
Policies
4.1.1
Both councils are supportive of the principle that an agreement negotiated locally between the two
parties is more desirable than an agreement imposed by the province, and both municipalities will
work together to cooperate on joint policy areas under the authority allowed by the province.
4.1.2
Both municipalities agree that they will work in a cooperative manner to address the terms and
requirements imposed on them by the province through the SSRP, and any subsequent provincial
regulations, and amend the Plan accordingly.
4.1.3
An updated Plan containing policies to address any provincial requirements will be reviewed by the
Intermunicipal Committee, revised if needed, and then be prepared for municipal review.
4.1.4
If both councils are satisfied that the proposed amendments meet the requirements of the province,
statutory public hearings can be conducted in accordance with Municipal Government Act
notification and advertising requirements. The revised intermunicipal development plan may be
adopted after the public hearings.
4.2
Addressing Municipal Amendments and Plan Validity
Intent
It is recognized that this Plan may require amendments from time to time to accommodate an unforeseen
situation or keep the Plan up to date and relevant.
Policies
4.2.1
This Plan comes into effect on the date it is adopted by both the Town and the County.
4.2.2
Amendments to this Plan may be necessary from time to time to accommodate agreed to updates
or changes and /or unforeseen situations not specifically addressed in the Plan; any amendments
must be adopted by both councils using the procedures established in the Municipal Government
Act. No amendments shall come into force until such time as both municipalities adopt the
amending bylaw.
4.2.3
Requests for amendments to this Plan by parties other than the Town and the County (i.e.
landowners or developers) shall be made to the municipality in which the request originated and be
accompanied by the applicable fee to each municipality for processing amendments to a statutory
plan.
-
When such applications are submitted, the municipality receiving an amendment shall
contact and advise the other municipality of such an application as outlined in the IDP
referral policies
Page 20 of 59
4.2.4
If agreed to by both municipalities, a joint public hearing may be held in accordance with the
Municipal Government Act for any amendments to this Plan.
4.2.5
The Intermunicipal Committee shall review the policies of the Plan annually and discuss land use
planning matters, issues, and concerns on an ongoing basis. The Committee may make
recommendations to be considered by the respective council for amendment to the Intermunicipal
Development Plan to ensure the policies remain current and relevant and continue to meet the
needs of both municipalities.
4.2.6
A formal review of the Plan should be undertaken every five years. The Intermunicipal Development
Plan Committee shall report to the respective council regarding confirmation of validity of the Plan
policies and /or may provide recommendations for: amendment(s), request for additional studies, or
other matters identified by the Committee.
4.2.7
Either municipality may request that the Plan be repealed and replaced with a new IDP upon serving
written notice to the other municipality. The dispute resolution process stipulated in Section 4.5 will
be undertaken should the municipalities be unable to reach an agreement.
4.3
Intermunicipal Development Plan Committee
Intent
The implementation of this plan is intended to be an ongoing process to ensure it is maintained and remains
applicable. A joint representative committee will ensure continued cooperation, as the purpose of the
committee is intended to promote cooperation and resolve potential conflicts, and wherever possible, come
to a consensus decision.
Policies
4.3.1
For the purposes of administering and monitoring the Intermunicipal Development Plan the
Lethbridge County and the Town of Coaldale agree that the Intermunicipal Development Plan
Committee shall be the members assigned by each respective council.
4.3.2
The Intermunicipal Development Plan Committee shall be established and shall be a working
committee consisting of six elected officials, three from the County and three from the Town. The
hosting municipality will chair committee meetings and meetings will rotate between
municipalities. At least one member of the Town's and the County's administrative staff should
attend all meetings of the Committee.
4.3.3
The Town and the County agree that the main functions of the Committee are:
(a) to address concerns regarding the policies of the plan;
(b) to address proposed amendments to the plan;
(c) to address changes to land use districts or other land use amendments affecting the lands
in the plan;
(d) to address issues in relation to implementation of plan policies, comments related to
subdivision and/or development proposals;
(e) to engage in resolving any conflicts or disputes which arise from this plan -- both
municipalities will equally share costs associated with using outside assistance to resolve a
dispute;
Page 21 of 59
(f) any other land use issues deemed appropriate not explicitly identified in the plan.
4.3.4
Meetings of the Committee shall be held at least twice annually or at the request of either
municipality, with the first meeting to be held prior to the last day of November of each year.
Committee meetings should be held as quickly as possible if any conflict arises, or if any matter is
brought before it.
4.3.5
If a matter has been referred to the Committee for comment, the Committee shall issue written
comments as soon as possible. Both councils agree that the Committee shall issue its response in
the form of comments, not recommendations.
4.3.6
A matter may be brought before the Committee by the administrative staff of either the Town or
the County, or by any other person or entity affected by the plan (i.e. government, agency,
landowner, developer).
4.3.7
A municipality may call a meeting of the Intermunicipal Development Plan Committee at any time
upon not less than five days' notice of the meeting being given to all members of the committee
and all resource persons, stating the date, time, purpose, and the place of the proposed meeting.
The five days' notice may be waived with 4/6 of the Committee members' agreement noted.
4.3.8
All six members of the IDP Committee will make their best efforts to attend each meeting.
Meetings will be held as long as each party is represented by a minimum of any two of its
representatives. If a member must be absent for an extended period of time, the respective
council will appoint a new member to the Committee.
4.3.9
Any changes to the Committee format, composition, roles, responsibilities or any aspect of its
existence or operation may be requested by either party.
4.3.10
Where a matter involving the two municipalities cannot be resolved to the satisfaction of the
Committee, the Committee is authorized to initiate the conflict resolution system in this plan, Part
6, as follows.
4.4
Intermunicipal Referrals
Intent
To establish a process for consistent and transparent sharing of information necessary to make decisions in
accordance with the intent of this Plan.
Policies
General
4.4.1
Where an intermunicipal referral is required by the MGA or the policies contained in the Plan, both
municipalities agree to share mailing address and property ownership information for circulation
purposes with the adjacent municipality, and where applicable, the municipality's processing agency
or designate
Page 22 of 59
4.4.2
Where a plan or bylaw, including amendments, or
application, requires notifications to be sent to a
municipality that is external to this IDP, the
referring municipality shall follow the referral
requirements outlined in the MGA, and where
applicable, those contained in a relevant
Intermunicipal Development Plan.
4.4.3
Administrative staff or representatives, for
Lethbridge County or the Town of Coaldale are
encouraged to discuss with one another
forthcoming Statutory Plans and Land Use
Bylaws, including amendments, and other
studies, projects, or proposals that may impact
the Plan Area.
4.4.4
Administrative staff or representatives for the Town or the County are encouraged to discuss with
one another forthcoming subdivision and development applications that may impact lands within
the Plan Area.
4.4.5
The municipalities are encouraged to refer to each other for comment on major land use or planning
matters that have the potential to impact the other jurisdiction, even if it involves lands that may
not be in the Plan Area.
Municipal Development Plans
4.4.6
A newly proposed Municipal Development Plan or amendment, by either municipality, shall be
referred to the other municipality for comment prior to a public hearing.
Other Statutory Plans
4.4.7
A newly proposed Statutory Plan or amendment within the Plan Area shall be referred to the other
municipality for comment prior to a public hearing.
Land Use Bylaws
4.4.8
All Land Use Bylaw amendments (including redesignations) in either municipality that are within the
Plan Area, shall be referred to the other municipality for comment prior to a public hearing.
4.4.9
A newly proposed Land Use Bylaw from either municipality shall be referred to the other for
comment prior to a public hearing.
Conceptual Design Schemes and Outline Plans
4.4.10 All conceptual design schemes and Outline Plans in support of a subdivision or development within
the Plan Area shall be referred to the other municipality for comment prior to Council resolution.
Subdivision and Development
4.4.11 All subdivision applications for lands within the Plan Area shall be referred to the other municipality
for comment prior to a decision being rendered except for:
Page 23 of 59
a)
An agricultural parcel subdivision of a quarter section that complies with the municipality's criteria
for subdivision and does not take access from an adjoining road under the other municipality's
control or management.
b)
A single lot country residential subdivision that complies with the municipality's criteria for
subdivision and does not take access from an adjoining road under the other municipality's control
or management.
c)
A cut-off parcel subdivision that complies with the municipality's criteria for subdivision and does
not take access from an adjoining road under the other municipality's control or management.
d)
An enlargement, reduction, or realignment of an existing separate parcel that complies with the
municipality's criteria for subdivision and does not take access from an adjoining road under the
other municipality's control or management, and
e)
Subdivision application in areas with an approved Area Structure Plan where no road access is
required from the adjacent municipality and the proposal conforms to the plan with no variances,
different lot configuration, or servicing proposals than what was approved in the Area Structure
Plan.
4.4.12 Each municipality shall refer all discretionary use development applications within the Plan Area to
the other municipality for comment prior to a decision being rendered.
- Within Lethbridge County the lands would be those identified in Map 1 as the Plan area
- Within the Town of Coaldale, the applicable lands would be those adjacent to the County/Town
boundary
4.4.13 Each municipality shall refer all development applications within the Plan Area that propose to take
access from an adjoining road under the control or management of the other municipality for
comment prior to a decision being rendered.
4.4.14 Any development application for a sand or gravel pit or renewable energy project (i.e. solar, wind,
water, biofuel) shall be referred to the other municipality for comment prior to a decision being
rendered.
Response Timelines
4.4.15 The responding municipality shall, from the date of mailing, have the following timelines to review
and provide comment on intermunicipal referrals:
a) 15 calendar days for all development applications,
b) 19 calendar days for subdivision applications,
c) 15 calendar days for a redesignation application or outline plans on land where an Area
Structure Plan (ASP) has been adopted and the redesignation or outline plan is consistent
with the adopted ASP.
d) 30 calendar days for all other intermunicipal referrals (statutory plans).
4.4.16 In the event that either municipality does not reply within, or request an extension by, the response
time for intermunicipal referrals stipulated in this Section, it is presumed that the responding
municipality has no comment or objection to the referred planning application or matter.
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Consideration of Reponses
4.4.17 Comments from the responding municipality regarding proposed Municipal Development Plans,
other Statutory Plans, and Land Use Bylaws, or amendments to any of these documents, shall be
considered by the municipality in which the application is being proposed, prior to a decision being
rendered.
4.4.18 Comments from the responding municipality regarding subdivision and development applications
shall be considered by the municipality in which the application is being proposed, prior to a decision
being rendered on the application.
4.5
Dispute Settlement
Intent
By its nature, the policies of this plan are general and make each municipality responsible for decisions made
in their own jurisdiction. This suggests that different plan interpretations or actions may result in disputes
that may arise from time to time. Using the following system, it is hoped the dispute can firstly be avoided,
and secondly, settled locally. Only after a series of steps would the dispute go beyond the local level.
Process
In the case of a dispute, the following process will be followed to arrive at a solution:
Step 1 It is important to avoid any dispute by ensuring the plan is adhered to as adopted, including full
circulation of any permit or application that may affect a municipality or as required in this plan and prompt
enforcement of the policies of the plan and Land Use Bylaw.
Step 2 When an intermunicipal issue comes to the attention of either party, it will be directed to the CAOs
who will review the issue and make a decision within 10 days, if it is within their authority to do so.
Step 3 If an issue is contentious or outside the scope of the CAOs' authority or at the request of the CAOs,
the matter will be referred to the Intermunicipal Development Plan Committee for its review and decision or
comment. Additionally, should either municipality identify an issue related to this plan that may result in a
more serious dispute, that municipality should approach the Joint Planning Committee to call a meeting of
the Committee to discuss the issue.
Step 4 Prior to the meeting of the Committee, each municipality through its administration, must ensure
the facts of the issue have been investigated and clarified, and information is made available to both parties.
Staff meetings may occur at this point to discuss possible solutions.
Step 5 The Committee should discuss the issue with the intent to seek a solution by consensus.
Step 6 Should the IDP Committee be unable to arrive at a consensus, then either municipality will contact
the appropriate chief elected officer to arrange a joint meeting of the two whole councils who will discuss
possible solutions.
Step 7 Should the councils be unable to reach a solution, the two parties, by agreement, shall contact a
professional mediator to commence a mediation process of which the results of the mediation report will be
binding on each municipality. If one or the other parties is not in agreement with this private mediation
step, then either municipality may contact Alberta Municipal Affairs to commence a mediation process
under the department's guidance. The cost of mediation would be split equally between the two
municipalities.
Page 25 of 59
Step 8 In a case where further action under the Municipal Government Act is unavailable, the results of the
mediation report will be binding on each municipality.
Step 9 In the case of a dispute regarding:
- a statutory plan or amendment, or
- a land use bylaw or amendment,
a dispute under section 690(1) of the Municipal Government Act may be initiated. Using this section
of the MGA is the final stage of dispute settlement, as this outlines the procedure for the
municipalities to request the Municipal Government Board to intercede and resolve the issue.
In relation to Step 9 above, if by the 25th day after the passing of a bylaw or statutory plan under dispute a
resolution has not yet been reached at any step in the dispute resolution process, the municipality initiating
the dispute action may, without prejudice, file an appeal with the Land and Property Rights Tribunal (for
statutory plan or land use bylaw issues) so that the statutory right and timeframe to file an appeal is not lost.
o
This appeal may then be withdrawn, without prejudice, if a solution or agreement is reached
between the two parties prior to the Land and Property Rights Tribunal meeting. (This is to
acknowledge and respect that the time required to seek resolution or mediation may not be able to
occur within the 30-day appeal filing process as outlined in the MGA.)
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PART 5 - INTERMUNICIPAL LAND USE POLICIES
5.1
Land Use
Intent
To create some common development practices between the two municipalities, both should request
professional drafted area structure plans for new development as a standard practice.
Policies
5.1.1
Existing land uses with valid development permits that exist as of the date of approval of this plan
may continue to operate in accordance with the provisions of the Lethbridge County Land Use Bylaw
and the Municipal Government Act.
5.1.2
Parcels that are designated Rural Agriculture in Lethbridge County within the Plan Area will be
redesignated to the Rural Urban Fringe District.
5.1.3
Any parcel that is zoned to districts other than the
Rural Urban Fringe (RUF) may continue under
those districts identified in the Lethbridge County
Land Use Bylaw. New applications for subdivision
and development on these lands shall be subject to
any policies of this IDP.
5.1.4
All subdivision shall comply with the subdivision
criteria found in the Lethbridge County and Town
of Coaldale Land Use Bylaws for:
-
agricultural uses,
-
existing and fragmented parcels,
-
residential and single lot country residential, and
-
commercial and industrial uses.
5.1.5
Any application submitted for redesignation shall be accompanied by a professionally prepared area
structure plan or conceptual design scheme if required by the respective municipality's Municipal
Development Plan.
5.1.6
For Area Structure Plans and Conceptual Design Schemes within Lethbridge County, applicants may
be asked to provide a conceptual "shadow plan" with eventual urban sized lots illustrated, road
alignments, servicing corridors, and 'building pockets' shown as to where dwellings would be located,
so as not fragment, or interfere with potential urban expansion, if it were to occur.
5.1.7
For any development on lands that have been identified within a possible environmentally significant
area (ESA) or where the municipality within which the development is proposed is of the opinion that
the land may be within an ESA, the developer may be required to conduct an environmental impact
assessment (EIA) and is responsible for contacting Alberta Environment and Parks.
5.1.8
Both municipalities recognize the regional importance of the Birds of Prey centre and agree to take
into consideration the Birds of Prey existing operations and expansion plans when making long-term
land use decisions in proximity to the Birds of Prey centre.
5.1.9
For any development on lands that may contain a historic resource value (HRV), the developer may
be required to conduct a historical resource impact assessment (HRIA) and is responsible for
consulting the Historical Resources Act and contacting Alberta Culture and Tourism.
Page 27 of 59
5.1.10 Developers preparing area structure plans (ASPs) are responsible for submitting the final approved
ASP to Alberta Culture for review to obtain historical resource clearance and must file a copy of any
clearance approval with the respective municipality.
5.1.11
Each municipality is responsible for referring development applications and other land use activities
within their respective jurisdictions to the appropriate provincial department to determine when an
EIA or HRIA may be required.
5.1.12
Both municipalities should consider the provincial Wetland Policy when making land use decisions
with the goal of sustaining environment and economic benefits. The developer, not the municipality,
is responsible for ensuring compliance with the provincial policy and any associated regulations.
5.1.13
Each municipality encourages applicants of subdivision and development proposals to consult with
the respective municipality, irrigation district, and provincial departments, as applicable, regarding
water supply, drainage, setbacks from sensitive lands, and other planning matters relevant to the
natural environment in advance of submitting a proposal.
5.2
General Development Standards
Intent
The County and the Town recognize there may be areas of mutual benefit in the provision of infrastructure
and other services.
Policies
5.2.1
Both municipalities will require developers to prepare (at their own expense) storm water
management plans, required as per the policies of this plan or a municipality's Municipal
Development Plan, which must be professionally prepared by a licensed, qualified engineer.
5.2.2
If problems or disputes should arise between the two municipalities regarding any storm water issues,
the two parties agree to consult with each other and attempt to resolve the issue locally prior to
engaging Alberta Environment or other provincial authorities. If a simple resolution cannot be easily
achieved, the two parties should use the dispute mechanism process as outlined in Part 4 of this plan.
5.2.3
Both municipalities recognize the importance of efficient provision of utilities and services and agree
to coordinate, wherever possible, to determine appropriate locations and alignments of any utility or
servicing infrastructure required to serve a proposed subdivision or development within the Plan
Area.
5.2.4
It is recognized that standards of development are different for the County as a rural municipality,
than the Town as an urban. As such the County and the Town will endeavor to ensure as best it can
that quality developments are approved, and that the standards as outlined in each municipalities
Land Use Bylaw and other guiding documents are adhered to.
5.2.5
Any development proposal within the Town of Coaldale and land within the Lethbridge County IDP
boundary shall address storm water drainage and include considerations for how it may impact the
Malloy Drain and the Town of Coaldale.
Page 28 of 59
5.3
Agricultural Practices
Intent
Agricultural activities can continue to operate under
acceptable farming practices within the
Intermunicipal Development Plan Area. The
policies of this section will seek to provide the
opportunity for discussion and negotiation if
problems should arise. The County and the Town
recognize that it is the jurisdiction of the Natural
Resources Conservation Board (NRCB) to grant
approvals and regulate confined feeding operations
(CFO's). However, both municipalities agree it is desirable to specifically regulate intensive agricultural
operations within the defined Plan area in an attempt to minimize potential nuisance and conflict between
land uses, especially residential, and CFOs with the plan area.
Policies
EXTENSIVE AGRICULTURE
5.3.1
Both councils recognize and acknowledge the main use of land found within the County portion of
the Intermunicipal Development Plan area and some of the land within the Town is used for
extensive agricultural activities (i.e. cultivation and grazing). These activities and other agricultural
activities may continue to operate under acceptable farming practices and are protected under the
Agricultural Operations Practices Act.
5.3.2
Extensive agriculture will continue to be the primary land use of the lands, until such time as they
may be redesignated to non-agricultural uses in accordance with this plan. Until redesignation
occurs, land uses within the plan boundary will be regulated in accordance with the Rural Urban
Fringe district contained within the Lethbridge County Land Use Bylaw or the Urban Reserve
District within the Town of Coaldale Land Use Bylaw.
5.3.3
Both municipalities will attempt to work cooperatively together in supporting and encouraging
'considerate' good neighbour farming practices, such as for weed, dust, and insect control adjacent
to developed areas, through good agricultural management practices and Alberta Agriculture
guidelines. If problems should arise, the Lethbridge County may be notified and will consult with
the landowner to emphasize, and enforce if needed, the County's Agricultural Service Board's
policies.
5.3.4
If disputes or complaints in either municipality should arise between citizens and agricultural
operators, the municipality receiving the complaint will attempt to direct the affected parties to the
appropriate agency, government department, or municipality for consultation or resolution
wherever possible.
5.3.5
Both councils will attempt to protect good quality agricultural land and limit their premature
conversion to other uses until such time it is absolutely needed for some other use. To assist in this
endeavor, both municipalities will attempt to:
-
dutifully take into consideration the location, type, and quality of agricultural land when
making plan, bylaw, and subdivision decisions related to accommodating development.
Page 29 of 59
INTENSIVE AGRICULTURE (CONFINED FEEDING OPERATIONS)
Intent
It is the desire of Lethbridge County and the Town of Coaldale to minimize potential conflict between
residential uses and confined feeding operations within the Intermunicipal Development Plan area.
Policies
5.3.6
New confined feeding operations (CFOs) are prohibited to be established within the Intermunicipal
Development Plan area.
5.3.7
Both Councils recognize and acknowledge that existing confined feeding operations located within
the plan area will be allowed to continue to operate under acceptable operating practices and within
the requirements of the Agricultural Operations Practices Act, inclusive of the Standards and
Administration Regulation.
5.3.8
With respect to existing confined feeding operations (CFOs), expansions shall be restricted in the
plan area except in cases where the terms of policy 5.3.10 can be met.
5.3.9
For confined feeding operations, existing or proposed, located within the intermunicipal
development plan area, the review process as outlined in the Agricultural Operation Practices Act
should be followed by the Natural Resources Conservation Board (NRCB) and both municipalities
must be notified in accordance with the review process.
5.3.10 The NRCB may consider allowing existing confined feeding operations to limited expansion and to
upgrade and modernize within the requirements of the Agricultural Operations Practices Act and
Regulations and that expansion includes::
a) That the expansion is no more than a 10% increase from the existing animal numbers;
b) Consideration of the minimum distance separation calculation contained in the Agricultural
Operation Practices Act, Standards and Administration Regulation;
c) Demonstrating changes will reduce negative impacts to the rural and urban residents of the
area;
d) Additional environmental protection will be considered; and
e) Comments from the County and Town area received and considered.
5.3.11 The Natural Resources Conservation Board (NRCB) is requested to discourage the spreading of
manure in the plan area due to concerns with the quality of drainage entering the Town during a
storm event. However, in all cases the procedures outlined in the Agricultural Operation
Practices Act, Standards and Administration Regulation or the recommendations or conditions
of the Natural Resources Conservation Board (NRCB) should be strictly adhered to, with some
reasonable consideration for weather conditions present.
5.3.12 Both municipalities support confined feeding operators with a commitment to good standards
of practice. The County and Town expect operators to follow and adhere to any regulations or
permit conditions as required by the NRCB.
5.3.13 If problems or complaints of an operator's practices should arise and are brought to either the
County or Town's attention, they will notify and consult the other municipality prior to engaging
provincial authorities.
Page 30 of 59
5.3.14 For statutory plan consistency, Lethbridge
County
shall
review
its
Municipal
Development Plan (MDP) and update its CFO
policies and designated "Confined Feeding
Operations (CFO) Exclusion Areas" Map 2 (2A
& 2B) to reflect Exclusionary Areas, within six
(6) months of this plan being adopted.
5.4
Subdivision and Residential Uses
Intent
It is acknowledged that lands within the Intermunicipal
Development Plan area are influenced by the proximity to the Town of Coaldale. The fringe area is the focus
of pressure by land owners and developers for conversion of traditional agriculture lands to non-agriculture
uses. The policies within this section identify a framework and criteria to manage said lands.
Policies
5.4.1
Development proposals should be evaluated against regional and subregional plans, as applicable,
the policies of this plan, each municipality's respective Municipal Development Plan (MDP), and
corresponding statutory and non-statutory plans.
5.4.2
Unless otherwise stipulated in this plan, subdivision of a quarter-section within the Rural Urban
Fringe and IDP boundary shall generally be restricted to first parcel out, as either an isolated
farmstead/country residential title, the creation of two 80-acre titles on irrigated land, or a parcel
defined as a cut-off parcel under the Lethbridge County Land Use Bylaw (as per the County's
subdivision policy).
5.4.3
Further subdivision of a quarter-section that has been previously subdivided should not be allowed
except in certain areas agreed to in the plan and as specifically authorized (see policy 5.4.4).
5.4.4
Certain areas in the fringe may be considered suitable for further subdivision by the Lethbridge
County,
a) The proposal is well-planned and meets the County's subdivision policy;
b) Compatibility with adjacent land uses is a consideration; and
c) An acceptable Area Structure Plan is adopted.
This decision-making process should include consideration for the investment and location of Town
infrastructure to ensure it is not adversely impacted.
5.4.5
New land uses proposed within the Town should be compatible to the existing or planned land uses
within the County and should be comprehensively planned.
5.4.6
Any new development within the Town should be developed to urban standards and meet the density
targets as set out in the Town's municipal development plan.
5.4.7
If an Area Structure Plan, or equivalent, is not in place then the host municipality shall evaluate
applications for redesignation, subdivision, and development proposals according to the following
criteria:
a) Strategic policies outlined by the host municipality including their MDP;
b) The policies of this plan;
Page 31 of 59
c) Impacts on existing and planned uses in the vicinity of the proposal; and
d) Consideration of environmental impacts in accordance with the policies and the procedures
of the municipality in which the proposal is made, and requirements of Alberta Environment.
5.4.8
Certain existing fragmented areas of parcels 20 acres or less in size have been identified and
mapped (see Map 5). These areas may be considered for further residential subdivision with an
approved conceptual design scheme or Area Structure Plan outlining the details of the
subdivision and development and including a storm water management plan as a component, to
be prepared at the developer's expense.
5.4.9
For any further subdivision proposal in conjunction with policy 5.4.8, the referral process will
involve Lethbridge County referring the submitted draft conceptual design scheme or Area
Structure Plan to the Town of Coaldale to review and be able to provide comment on, as per the
agreed to referral policies in Part 4 of this plan.
5.4.10 For any multi-lot subdivision or development proposal within the IDP plan area including those
within the Town, the County and the Town will require architectural controls, as approved by the
municipality, to be applied and registered on title to ensure quality development. This
component should be submitted by the developer as part of the required Area Structure Plan
submission requirements.
5.4.11 Major subdivision or development proposals located on either side of the joint municipal
boundary which may affect or impact the other municipality, should be circulated to the other
respective municipality for consideration and commentary on the proposal.
5.4.12 Both municipalities will stipulate that any required reports and plans to be provided by developers for
major or multi-lot subdivisions or development proposals within their jurisdiction (for lands lying on
either side of the joint municipal boundary) be expertly prepared by land use planning professionals
(i.e., architect, engineer, planner).
5.4.13 Both municipalities agree that they will strive to better communicate, cooperate, and share any
information provided on storm water management plans for developments, when plans are required
as outlined in this agreement.
5.4.14 All storm water management plans required as per the policies of this plan and as submitted to
either municipality must be professionally prepared by a licensed engineer and approved by
Alberta Environment.
5.4.15 Lethbridge County has adopted an Engineering Guidelines and Minimum Servicing Standards
manual which shall apply as a minimum stipulation to any subdivision or development proposal
on any lands within the County jurisdiction of this plan.
5.4.16 Both municipalities shall require, as a condition of approval, that existing standards identified in
Alberta Environment's Environmental Reference Manual and Municipal Affairs' Private Sewage
Standards Guidelines in relation to private septic systems are met.
Page 32 of 59
5.5
Industrial and Other Non-Agricultural Uses
Intent
Both municipalities recognize the importance of industrial and commercial development within the region
and particularly the agri-food/protein corridor designated around Highway 3. This section provides
direction for types of land uses deemed industrial or commercial to appropriate areas within the Plan Area.
Policies
5.5.1
It is recognized that both municipalities have the right to commercial and industrial development
within their jurisdiction as identified on Map 6.
5.5.2
Commercial and industrial development shall be done in manner that it is compatible with what is
development/pre-planned with the adjacent municipality.
5.5.3
Commercial and industrial development within both jurisdictions will require the appropriate zoning
and be appropriately planned in conformance with the IDP policies.
5.5.4
Some lands contained within the plan area are already zoned, subdivided, or developed for non-
agricultural uses. It is recognized that any existing non-agricultural uses located within the plan area
are permitted and may continue their operations.
5.5.5
Both municipalities agree that good land use practices should be followed when considering
industrial development proposals, and each municipality should determine the compatibility to
adjacent land uses, either existing or proposed future, and potential impact to adjacent residents.
5.5.6
Transition between industrial and residential should be proportionate to the level of impact
between existing and planned land uses to mitigate potential health, safety, and nuisance factors.
5.5.7
Residential uses of any type should be discouraged by both municipalities in the northeast area
of the plan boundary, as identified in Map 6, being near the Town's industrial area and sewage
lagoons, and any use should be compatible and meet appropriate setbacks.
5.5.8
Both municipalities recognize that some types of large-scale industrial developments require
adequate municipal servicing and approval will be dependent on the need and availability of
servicing in relation to that use and whether they can connect to existing services and
infrastructure.
5.5.9
Large-scale industrial development proposals that require substantial servicing may be an
opportunity for both municipalities to engage in a joint venture.
5.5.10 For major development proposals, the Intermunicipal Development Plan Committee may meet
on a request basis by either municipality for review and commentary.
5.5.11 When considering applications for redesignation, subdivision and/or development approval for
industrial, light industrial, or commercial uses, all applications must meet or exceed the County's
Engineering Guidelines and Minimum Servicing Standards Manual, and the Town's internal
standard of the City of Lethbridge's Design Standards, for minimum performance standards.
The County and Town may impose additional requirements and standards, as deemed necessary.
5.5.12 Land use proposals that do not conform or are not clearly defined within this Plan, may be discussed,
and considered with agreement between the two municipalities. Such proposals must be brought
before the Intermunicipal Development Plan Committee for discussion and commentary. Further to
this, any major amendment to the plan must be agreed to by both municipal councils.
Page 33 of 59
5.6
Urban Expansion and Annexation
Intent
The Town of Coaldale recently annexed lands from Lethbridge County in 2018 and as such there is no
specific area identified for growth of the Town within this Plan. The following policies are in place to ensure
the feedback of all relevant stakeholders is taken into consideration if annexation is being proposed.
Policies
5.6.1
As a commitment to both municipalities Municipal Development Plans, the Town and County will
encourage private landowners to consider developing existing areas that can accommodate infill
development and will also consider and support compact design concepts for development.
5.6.2
The Town of Coaldale annexed lands from Lethbridge County in 2018 based on a 25-year projected
growth and land supply which Lethbridge County did not contest. If any annexation application is
contemplated by the Town prior to this growth and timeline build out, the town would have to
consult with the County and demonstrate the purpose and need to the County's satisfaction.
5.6.3
If the Town determines that annexation is necessary to accommodate growth, it will prepare and
share with Lethbridge County a growth strategy or study indicating:
a) Necessity of the land;
b) Proposed uses;
c) Servicing implications; and
d) Any financial implications for both municipalities.
5.6.4
Annexation involves several stakeholders that need to be involved in the process, including:
a) Landowners directly affected by the application, who must be a part of the negotiation
process;
b) The Town of Coaldale, who must make the detailed case for annexation and be a major
participant in any negotiations;
c) Lethbridge County, who must evaluate the annexation application and supporting
documentation for the impact on its financial status, land base and taxpayers.
5.6.5
The County will, as part of the negotiation with taxpayers, wish to see arrangements made by the
Town regarding, but not limited to:
a) Property taxes of ratepayers;
b) Use of land continuing as agriculture until needed for development;
c) Ability to keep certain animals on site;
d) Consideration by agencies such as Alberta Transportation and Alberta Environment; and
e) Consideration by the Land and Property Rights Tribunal, who will evaluate the proposal and
all stakeholder feedback.
5.6.6
Any growth strategy or study for an annexation proposal must include:
a) Proposed annexation boundaries based on the principle of including the outer limits of any
adjacent road right-of-way boundary to demonstrate the accommodation of urban growth
(i.e., parcels subject of the annexation).
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b) Accurately demonstrating that all parcels subject of the annexation will be under the
control and management of the Town and the County will not be affected or responsible
for any future management or maintenance as a result of the urban expansion.
c) A detailed description of rural municipal roads that may be affected by the annexation or
the municipal boundary change.
5.6.7
Within 60 days of receiving a growth study or report to review, and prior to the County or the Town
submitting a notice of intent to annex land with the Land and Property Rights Tribunal, the County
or the Ton shall indicate in writing whether it has objections or concerns, or whether it requires
additional clarification on any matters within the study or report.
5.6.8
With regards to policy 5.6.7, if concerns are brought forward, a meeting of the Intermunicipal
Committee can be requested by either municipality to discuss the concerns raised or conclusions
presented and attempt to arrive at a consensus on the issue. If the committee is unable to achieve
consensus, the dispute resolution mechanism processes can be initiated in accordance with this
Plan.
5.6.9
Notwithstanding the previous policy, the County or Town may initiate an application for annexation
should the proposal be minor in nature such as a boundary adjustment to accommodate:
a) Existing title property line reconfigurations; or
b) Roads, canals, or utility rights-of-way that may be split by municipal jurisdiction boundaries.
c) Cases where there is agreement by the two municipalities that the annexation proposed is
both minor and logical.
5.6.10 Proposed annexation boundaries should follow existing legal boundaries to avoid creating
fragmented patterns or titles with split municipal jurisdiction.
5.6.11 Within six (6) months of the Land and Property Rights Tribunal approving the annexation, the
Intermunicipal Development Plan boundary shall be reviewed and amended as required to reflect
the municipal boundary change.
5.6.12 Within the same six (6) month timeframe described in the policy above, the County's Rural Urban
Fringe (RUF) district boundary and the Town's respective change in zoning in their Land Use
Bylaws shall also be amended to reflect the expansion and ensure all plans, boundaries and
described areas are in conformity with each other.
5.6.13 The western boundary of the Town shall not be further expanded (through annexation) as per
the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the County and the Town in September of
2016.
5. 7
Transportation and Road Networks
Intent
Policies should attempt to address and deal with expected development and growth pressures and provide a
forum for consultation when dealing with transportation issues that will impact both municipalities.
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Policies
5.7.1
The County and Town should work cooperatively
together to provide a cohesive and joint policy when
dealing with transportation issues that will impact
both municipalities.
5.7.2
In conjunction with any annexation study or
application proposed by the Town must include
identification and a detailed description of rural
municipal roads that may be affected by the
annexation or municipal boundary change.
5.7.3
Each municipality must be duly notified for any
development or subdivision proposal in the other
municipality that will result in access being required
from an adjoining road under its control or management. The affected municipality must give its
approval or decision in writing prior to the application being considered as complete by the other
municipality, as blanket conditional approvals for road access should not be permitted. In relation to
this policy, the referral time frames as stipulated in Part 4 of this plan should be respected.
5.7.4
If both municipalities agree, an "Assignment of Jurisdiction" as it applies to public roads may be
discussed and agreed to, in consultation with and approval by Alberta Transportation, if all parties
agree that it is an appropriate mechanism to address a road or access issue for a particular
development proposal.
5.7.5
Whenever possible, urban designs and Area Structure Plans within the Town should be prepared in
such a way as to limit the number of entry points on roads that are either under County jurisdiction or
link directly to the County Road system.
5.7.6
The Town and County may agree to consult and cooperate on the preparation of future
Transportation Master Plans if it is determined that the plan may have implications or benefits to the
other municipality, such as for road networks that transcend through each respective jurisdiction.
5.7.7
The two municipalities may enter discussions to create and identify standards for a hierarchy of
roadways to be established between the two jurisdictions. Access control regulations should also be
established to ensure major collectors and arterials are protected.
5.7.8
If required by Alberta Transportation or either municipality, at the time of subdivision or development,
the developer shall conduct traffic studies with respect to impact and access onto Highways 3, 845,
and 512 and the future Highway 4 Bypass (future CANAMEX Corridor). Any upgrading identified by
such studies shall be implemented by the developer at its sole cost and to the satisfaction of the
municipality and Alberta Transportation.
5.7.9
Any future land use impacts that may result from the Canamex highway and potential effects to
Highway 3 may be evaluated and discussed by the Intermunicipal Committee as part of ongoing
monitoring of this plan.
5.7.10
Both municipalities acknowledge that a Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) may be required prior to any
intense or large-scale major development to confirm access management standards, road cross-
sections and other functional considerations, which should be provided at the expense of the
developers.
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5.8
Mutual Benefit and Cooperation
Intent
Consultation and cooperation on joint policy areas that may affect or benefit one or both parties should be
encouraged and looked at by both municipalities.
Policies
5.8.1
Lethbridge County and the Town of Coaldale agree to work together to try and enhance and
improve the region for the benefit of both municipalities.
5.8.2
The County and the Town agree to continue to have an active intermunicipal committee (either as
an Intermunicipal Committee or Joint Planning Committee) whose composition shall be agreed
upon by both municipalities and will include representatives of Council with support from
administration.
5.8.3
It is recognized by both municipalities that some economic or development proposals may be
regionally significant or mutually beneficial to both parties and the two agree to meet to discuss
such proposals when they come forward. Joint council meetings may be used as a forum to discuss
and negotiate proposals.
5.8.4
It is recognized by both municipalities that benefits can occur through cooperation, and both may
explore various intermunicipal options, such as sharing future services and / or revenues (taxes),
through the development of special agreements negotiated between the County and the Town.
5.8.5
Any special agreements negotiated between the County and the Town should be negotiated in
good faith. Both parties agree to honour the agreements reached and the agreements must be
clear about what has been decided and how the agreement will be carried out.
5.8.6
In consideration of providing certain services to areas or proposals agreed to between the two
municipalities, the County and the Town may discuss the need to create and apply off-site levies,
development fees or servicing fees to the recipient or proposal as part of the agreement.
5.8.7
As a municipal cost saving initiative, the County and the Town may discuss and plan for the sharing
of various municipal equipment, machinery, and services where feasible, practical and workable,
which would be managed through separate agreements.
5.8.8
The County and the Town will work together on reviewing and updating the Intermunicipal
Collaboration Framework, as required by the Municipal Government Act, in a cooperative spirit in an
attempt to give due consideration to regional perspectives on municipal governance and
community services.
5.8.9
The County and the Town may collaborate and investigate methods of giving various support to a
variety of cultural, recreational, environmental (wetlands, parkland etc.) or heritage projects that
may mutually benefit or enhance the quality of life of the citizens of both municipalities. This could
be in the form of time (municipal staff), gifts in kind, materials, municipal letters of support, unified
government lobbying, applications for grants, or other arrangements if both municipalities agree.
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Part 6 - MAPS
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Part 7 - DEFINITIONS
Accessory Building means a building or structure, incidental, subordinate and located on the same lot
as the principal building but does not include a building or structure used for human habitation.
Accessory Use means a use of a building or land, which is incidental to and subordinate to the principal
use of the site on which it is located.
Adjacent Land means land that abuts or is contiguous to the parcel of land that is being described and
includes land that would be contiguous if not for a highway, road, lane, walkway, watercourse,
utility lot, pipeline right-of-way, power line, railway, or similar feature and any other land
identified in a land use bylaw as adjacent for the purpose of notifications under the Act.
Agricultural Land, Higher Quality means:
(a)
land having a Canada Land Inventory (CLI) classification of 1-4, comprising 64.8 ha (160 acre)
parcels of dryland or 32.4 ha (80 acre) parcels of irrigated land;
(b)
land contained in an irrigable unit;
(c)
land having a CLI classification of 5-7 with permanent water rights, with the exception of:
(i)
cut-off parcels of 4.0 ha (10 acres) or less. To be considered a cut-off, a parcel must be
separated by:
- a permanent irrigation canal as defined by the irrigation district,
- a permanent watercourse normally containing water throughout the year,
- a railway,
- a graded public roadway or highway,
- an embankment, or
- some other physical feature,
which makes it impractical to farm or graze either independently or as part of a larger operation,
including nearby land;
(ii)
land which is so badly fragmented by existing use or ownership that the land has a low
agricultural productivity or cannot logically be used for agricultural purposes. For the purpose
of subdivision, fragmented land may be considered to be land containing 8.1 ha (20 acres) or
less of farmable agricultural land in CLI classes 1-4.
Agricultural Operation means an agricultural activity conducted on agricultural land for gain or reward
or in the hope or expectation of gain or reward, and includes:
(a)
the cultivation of land;
(b)
the raising of livestock, including game-production animals within the meaning of the
"Livestock Industry Diversification Act" and poultry;
(c)
the raising of fur-bearing animals, pheasants or fish;
(d)
the production of agricultural field crops;
(e)
the production of fruit, vegetables, sod, trees, shrubs and other specialty horticultural crops;
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(f)
the production of eggs and milk;
(g)
the production of honey (apiaries);
(h)
the operation of agricultural machinery and equipment, including irrigation pumps on site;
(i)
the application of fertilizers, insecticides, pesticides, fungicides and herbicides, including
application by ground and aerial spraying, for agricultural purposes.
(j)
the collection, transportation, storage, application, use transfer and disposal of manure; and
(k)
the abandonment and reclamation of confined feeding operations and manure storage
facilities.
Agricultural Service Board means the Lethbridge County board which provides agricultural services,
information, and new technology in liaison with other governments, jurisdictions, agencies and
industry by establishing policy that ensures statutory requirements and the collective interests
of clients are met. Several key pieces of provincial government legislation that are enforced are
the Weed Control Act; the Agricultural Service Board Act; the Soil Conservation Act; the
Agricultural Pests Act and the Agricultural Chemicals Act.
Architectural Controls means special standards or controls applied to development which are often
restrictive in nature. Typically, this includes a specified building scheme that applies to building
details, such as building types, finish, colors and materials, fences or landscaping. These
controls may be registered by a Restrictive Covenant at the time a plan of survey is filed with
Land Titles Office.
Area Structure Plan means a statutory plan in accordance with the Municipal Government Act and the
Lethbridge County Municipal Development Plan for the purpose of providing a framework for
subsequent subdivision and development of an area of land in a municipality. The plan typically
provides a design that integrates land uses with the requirements for suitable parcel densities,
transportation patterns (roads), storm water drainage, fire protection and other utilities across
the entire plan area.
Assignment of Jurisdiction means the same as the provincial department of Transportation meaning
and refers to Alberta Transportation allowing a portion of public road located in one municipal
jurisdiction to be signed over by agreement to another municipal jurisdiction for control and
maintenance.
Building Site means a specific portion of the land that is the subject of an application on which a
building can or may be constructed (Subdivision and Development Regulation AR 43/2002).
Canamex Corridor or Highway means a provincial road development as such by Ministerial Order
pursuant to the Highway Traffic Act, and is the designated freeway corridor as established and
gazetted by the province with the purpose of efficiently moving goods and transport between
Canada and Mexico.
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Commercial Establishment means a building, or part thereof, for the sale of goods or services to the
general public.
Commercial Use means the use of land and/or buildings for the purpose of public sale, display and
storage of goods, merchandise, substances, materials and/or services on the premises. Any on-
premises manufacturing, processing or refining of materials is typically incidental to the sales
operation.
Committee means the Joint Planning Committee established in this Plan.
Conceptual Design Scheme means a general site layout plan which provides for the orderly
development of a parcel or group of parcels, usually for less than five lots. It is a planning tool
which is a type of "mini" area structure plan, usually less detailed, typically illustrating lot
layouts & sizes, roads, topography and general servicing information. It is usually not adopted
by bylaw, but may be if the municipality desires to do so.
Confined Feeding Operation means an activity on land that is fenced or enclosed or within buildings
where livestock is confined for the purpose of growing, sustaining, finishing or breeding by
means other than grazing and requires registration or approval under the conditions set forth in
the Agricultural Operation Practices Act (AOPA), as amended from time to time, but does not
include seasonal feeding and bedding sites.
Country Residential, Grouped means existing or proposed residential uses on more than two adjacent
parcels of less than the minimum extensive agricultural parcel size, and may consist of the yard
site of a former farmstead.
Country Residential, Isolated means one or two existing or proposed country residential uses.
Country Residential Use means a use of land, the primary purpose of which is for a dwelling or the
establishment of a dwelling in a rural area, whether the dwelling is occupied seasonally, for
vacation purposes or otherwise, or permanently.
County means the Lethbridge County.
Development means:
(a)
an excavation or stockpile and the creation of either but does not include turning over soil with
no immediate activity on the land in the near future; or
(b)
a building or an addition to, or replacement or repair of a building and the construction or
placing of any of them in, on, over or under land; or
(c)
a change of use, or a building, or an act done in relation to land or a building that results in, or is
likely to result in, a change in the use of the land or building; or
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(d)
a change in the intensity of use of land or a building or an act done in relation to land or a building
that results in, or is likely to result in, a change in the intensity of use of the land.
Discretionary Use means the use of land or a building in a land use district for which a development
permit may be approved at the discretion of the Development Authority with or without
conditions.
District means a defined area of a municipality as set out in the land use district schedule of uses and
indicated on the Land Use District Map.
Dispute Settlement or Resolution means a formal process that provides the means by which
differences of view between the parties can be settled, in a peaceful and cooperative manner.
These differences may be over their opinions, interpretations, or actions of one party in regards
to decision making in the IMDP plan area or interpretation of the IMDP policies.
Dwelling Unit means self-contained living premises occupied or designed to be occupied by an
individual or by a family as an independent and separate housekeeping establishment and in
which facilities are provided for cooking and sanitation. Such units include single-detached
dwellings, modular homes, manufactured homes and moved-in buildings for residential use.
Extensive Agriculture means the general raising of crops and grazing of livestock in a non-intensive
nature, typically on existing titles or proposed parcels usually 64.8 ha (160 acres) on dryland or
32.4 ha (80 acres) on irrigated land.
Farmstead means an area in use or formerly used for a farm home or farm buildings or both and which
is impractical to farm because of the existing buildings, vegetation or other constraints.
Farming means the use of land or buildings for the raising or producing of crops and/or livestock but
does not include a confined feeding operation for which a registration or approval is required
from the Natural Resources Conservation Board.
First Parcel Out means the first subdivision from a previously unsubdivided quarter-section of land.
The subdivision authority may consider a quarter-section to be unsubdivided if the previous
subdivisions were for the purpose of public or quasi-public use.
Freestanding Sign means any sign or display supported by a freestanding column or structure.
Fringe or Urban Fringe means the approximate one-mile area around the municipal boundary of an
urban municipality and includes the designated Rural Urban Fringe district of the Lethbridge
County Land Use Bylaw.
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Industrial means development used for manufacturing, fabricating, processing, assembly, production
or packaging of goods or products, as well as administrative offices and warehousing and
wholesale distribution use which are accessory uses to the above, provided that the use does
not generate any detrimental impact, potential health or safety hazard, or any nuisance beyond
the boundaries of the developed portion of the site or lot upon which it is situated.
Intermunicipal (IDP) Development Plan Committee means the members assigned by each respective
council to the Joint Planning Committee for the purposes of administering and monitoring the
Intermunicipal Development Plan.
Intermunicipal (IDP) Plan Boundary means the agreed to area the IMDP will govern and is the referral
area for the plan and all development applications and statutory bylaw amendments on lands
within the identified plan area that will be referred to the IMDP Committee.
Malloy Drain is a channel located east of Coaldale which collects irrigation spill water from laterals in
the Coaldale area and carries it to the Stafford Reservoir. The Malloy Drain was developed in
the 1950's to drain pockets of water within the Malloy Basin and increase production and ¾ of
the Malloy Drain is owned and operated by SMRID.
Malloy Drainage Basin is described as a topographic region lying between Stafford Reservoir and the
eastside of the City of Lethbridge from which the Malloy receives runoff, throughflow, and
groundwater flow. The drainage basin is the area of land that contributes the water it receives
as precipitation (except for losses through evaporation, transpiration from plants, incorporation
into the soil, groundwater, etc.) to the Stafford reservoir.
Major Tracts of Land means primarily undeveloped lands or parcels that are intended to be subdivided
and are not what would normally be considered part of present developed areas.
May means, within the context of a policy, that a discretionary action is permitted.
MGA means the Municipal government Act Revised Statutes of Alberta 2000, Chapter
M-26, as amended.
Mixed Use means the land or a identified parcel may be used or designated for more than one specific
type of land use, and typically involves some type of residential use mixed with commercial
and/or public/institutional.
Municipal Council within the boundary of the Town of Coaldale means the Coaldale Council, and within
the boundary of the Lethbridge County means the County Council.
Municipal Development Plan means a statutory plan, formerly known as a general municipal plan,
adopted by bylaw in accordance with section 632 of the Act, which is used by municipalities as a
long-range planning tool.
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Nuisance means any use, prevailing condition or activity which adversely effects the use or enjoyment
of property or endangers personal health or safety.
Off-Site Levy means the rate established by a municipal Council that will be imposed upon owners
and/or developers who are increasing the use of utility services, traffic services, and other
services directly attributable to the changes that are proposed to the private property. The
revenues from the off-site levies will be collected by the municipality and used to offset the
future capital costs for expanding utility services, transportation network, and other services
that have to be expanded in order to service the needs that are proposed for the change in use
of the property.
Permitted Use means the use of land or a building in a land use district for which a Development
Authority shall issue a development permit with or without conditions providing all other
provisions of the Bylaw are conformed with.
Plan means the Lethbridge County and Town of Coaldale Intermunicipal Development Plan.
Principal Building or Use means the building or use of land or buildings that constitutes the dominant
structure or activity of the lot.
Provincial Highway means a road development as such by Ministerial Order pursuant to the Highway
Traffic Act and described by plates published in the Alberta Gazette pursuant to Alberta Reg.
164/69 as 500, 600, 700 & 800 series or Highways 1 and 36.
Public and Quasi-Public Building and Uses means a building or use which is available to or for the
greater public for the purpose of assembly, instruction, culture or community activity and
includes, but is not limited to, such uses as a school, church, cemetery, community hall,
educational facility, parks or government facilities.
Public Roadway means:
(a) the right-of-way of all or any of the following:
(i) a local road or statutory road allowance;
(ii) a service road;
(iii) a street;
(iv) an avenue; or
(v) a lane;
(vi) that is or is intended for public use; or
(b) a road, street or highway pursuant to the Public Highways Development Act.
Public Utility means a system, works, plant, equipment or service owned and operated by a
municipality or corporation under agreement with or franchised by the municipality, or by a
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corporation licensed under a Federal or Provincial Statute and which furnishes services and
facilities to the public and includes, but is not limited to:
(a)
communication by way of telephone, television or other electronic means;
(b)
public transportation by bus or other means; and
(c)
production, transmission, delivery or furnishing of water, gas or electricity to the general public.
Setback means the perpendicular distance that a development must be set back from the front, side, or
rear property lines of the building site as specified in the particular district in which the
development is located.
Shadow Plan means a conceptual design drawing which indicates how parcels of land may be further
subdivided and typically illustrates minimum sized urban lots, road alignments to adjacent road
networks, servicing corridors and building pockets as to where dwellings should be located, so
as not to fragment land or interfere with urban growth plans.
Shall or Must means, within the context of a policy, that the action is mandatory.
Should means, within the context of a policy, that the action is strongly encouraged but it is not
mandatory.
South Saskatchewan Regional Plan (SSRP) means the regional plan and regulations established by
order of the Lieutenant Governor in Council pursuant to the Alberta Land Stewardship Act.
Soils Classifications means the classification of soils in accordance with the Canadian Land Inventory
on the basis of soil survey information, and are based and intensity, rather than kind, of their
limitations for agriculture. The classes as indicated on Map 4 include:
Class 1 - Soils in this class have no significant limitations in use for crops.
Class 2 - Soils in this class have moderate limitations that restrict the range of crops or require
moderate conservation practices.
Class 3 - Soils in this class have moderately severe limitations that restrict the range of crops or require
special conservation practices.
Subclass S - limitations meaning adverse soil characteristics which include one or more of: undesirable
structure, low permeability, a restricted rooting zone because of soil characteristics, low natural
fertility, low moisture holding capacity, salinity.
Subclass T - limitations meaning adverse topography, either steepness or the pattern of slopes limits
agriculture.
Subclass W - limitations meaning excess water - excess water other than from flooding limits use for
agriculture. The excess water may be due to poor drainage, a high-water table, seepage or
runoff from surrounding areas.
Town means the Town of Coaldale.
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Waiver or Variance means a relaxation of the numerical standard(s) required of a development as
established in the land use bylaw. A waiver cannot be granted for use.
Working Area means those areas that are currently being used or that still remain to be used for the
placing of waste material, or where waste processing or a burning activity is conducted in
conjunction with a hazardous waste management facility, landfill or storage site (Subdivision and
Development Regulation AR 43/2002)
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APPENDIX A - Lethbridge County and Town of Coaldale
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
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