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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-06-11 Municipal Planning Commission (Regular) MinutesCounty of Newell Meeting Minutes Municipal Planning Commission June 11, 2026 -10:00 AM The regular Municipal Planning Commission (MPC) Meeting of the County of Newell was held in the County Office at Brooks, AB and livestreamed to the public on Thursday, June 11th, 2026 commencing at 10:00 a.m. A notice was posted at the front entrance advising the public of the meeting. MEMBERS PRESENT: K. Christman, Councillor, MPC Chair A. Skanderup, Councillor, MPC Vice Chair A. Doerksen, Reeve L. Kopp, Councillor D. Baumgarten, Councillor N. Johnson, Councillor G. Skriver, Councillor H. Johnson, Councillor ABSENT: B. Hofer, Councillor STAFF: M. Fenske, Chief Administrative Officer M. Jackson, Planning and Development Supervisor S. Simpson, Development Officer E. Sinclair, Planning and Development Administrative Assistant C. Siakaluk, Communications Officer (Moderator) M. Harbicht, Director of Municipal Services OTHERS IN ATTENDANCE: E. Brodoway (DP 2026022) J. Tilma (DP 2026023 and Subdivision 2026-0-006) A. Stinnissen (DP 2026039) 2. P-47/26 CALL TO ORDER The Chair called the meeting to order at 10:01 a.m. EXCUSED FROM MEETING MOVED BY COUNCILLOR GREG SKRIVER that Councillor Ben Hofer be excused from the meeting. 3. MINUTES P-48/26 4. MOTION CARRIED 3.1 Minutes — Municipal Planning Commission (May 21, 2026) MOVED BY COUNCILLOR ADENA SKANDERUP that the minutes of the May 21, 2026 Municipal Planning Commission meeting be adopted as presented. CALL FOR POST AGENDA ITEMS The Chair called for post agenda items. MOTION CARRIED Municipal Planning Commission June 11, 2026 5. ADOPTION OF AGENDA P-49126 MOVED BY COUCILLOR DAN BAUMGARTEN that the agenda be adopted as presented. . MOTION CARRIED 6. DEVELOPMENT REPORT (1st MEETING ONLY) The Development Officer was present to respond to questions from MPC. This item was accepted as information. 7. DEVELOPMENT PERMITS 7.1 DP 2026022 Operation of an Industrial (Medium) Business, specifically an excavating business and the operation of on -site camping as an accessory use. The Development Officer provided background information on this item and responded to questions from MPC. The applicant was present to respond to questions from MPC. MPC inquired about the type of trailers that would be placed on the property. The applicant advised that the trailers would be individual employee's personal trailers. The applicant also stated they were not aware that the previous owners did not have permits for the operation of the on -site camping. The Development Officer explained that a temporary development permit had previously been issued for the use. When the permit expired, the trailers were removed, and a new permit was not obtained when the use resumed. MPC asked whether the applicant agreed with the conditions of the approval. The applicant indicated that they would like year-round camping as their work extends beyond the six-month period permitted under the proposed conditions. MPC noted that the condition to have on site camping be allowed from April to October was a recommendation from the Intermunicipal Development Plan Committee meeting with The City of Brooks. MPC discussed the condition and decided to allow for year-round use and to add the condition that no additions or alternations can be done to the RVs. RVs must have the appropriate skirting for winterization and that the septic system be compliant with the Alberta Safety Code Standard. P-50/26 MOVED BY COUNCILLOR LYNETTE KOPP that the Municipal Planning Commission APPROVE Development Permit 2026022 for the Operation of an Industrial (Medium) business, specifically an excavating business and the operation of on -site camping on Lot 3, Block 2, Plan 8011608, NW 7-19-14-W4. This development approval is subject to the conditions outlined below. DP 2026022 is APPROVED for the following reasons: Page 2 of 9 \ Municipal Planning Commission June 11, 2026 1. The proposed development complies with the Municipal Development Plan and the Intermunicipal Development Plan. 2. The Development Authority is satisfied that the proposed development is suitable for the purpose for which it is intended under the Industrial General District (Section 5), in the County of Newell Land Use Bylaw #2016-21. DP 2026022 is APPROVED for the following reasons: 1. This approval is effective as of July 2, 2026 (21-day appeal period). 2. The development must be located as shown on the site plan approved with the application and submitted March 18, 2026. It must be built according to the description provided with this approval. Any changes shall require the written approval of the Development Authority. 3. That the proposed development complies with all Federal, Provincial and Municipal statutes, regulations, codes and standards. 4. Services can be provided to the sites provided that they meet the Alberta Safety Code Standard. Electrical permits must be obtained for the change in use and a more detailed report from a licensed installer stating the location of the field and size of the tank. 5. That the Recreational Vehicles are not used as permanent dwellings. 6. The Recreational Vehicles shall be properly skirted and winterized to the satisfaction of the Development Authority and to maintain a neat and tidy appearance of the site. 7. No additions, attachments, or structural alterations to the Recreational Vehicles are permitted. 8. That there are no more than 4 Recreational Vehicles on the parcel at any time. 9. That the on -site camping is used only by employees of the business and will not be used or advertised for public use. 10. That the following setbacks on all sides are maintained for this development: 11. From other parcels (east): 3 m (10 ft) 12. That no structures be located on a right of way or easement on the parcel. 13. Any additional development or intensification shall require prior approval of a separate permit application. MOTION CARRIED 7.2 DP 2026023 Installation of 4 Agriculture Structures (grain bins) with a variance to the setback to the County Road. Page 3 of 9 Municipal Planning Commission June 11. 2026 The Development Officer provided background information on this item and responded to questions from MPC. The applicant was present and provided some history on the property and responded to questions from MPC. The Director of Municipal Services provided background information regarding the history of the road allowance, emphasizing the preservation of agricultural land and the provision of an alternate road allowance for neighbouring properties. MPC inquired whether there were alternative options available to accommodate the proposed development. Administration advised that available options and associated costs would need to be further evaluated. The applicant noted that the request was driven by site topography constraints and that the proposal was intended not only for the current grain bin expansion but also to support future growth and development of the farming operation. MPC discussed the possibility of future development on neighbouring lands and questioned whether a road meeting County standard could be accommodated within the existing setback requirements. Administration advised that any future development would require legal access to the parcel, which was one of the reasons the road allowance had been rerouted from its original surveyed grid road alignment. Administration further explained that future developers would be responsible for constructing the road to County standards, with a minimum gravel standard anticipated. Once constructed to County standards, the road would become the County's responsibility to maintain. Administration noted that while a road could be constructed within the existing right-of-way, future development on both sides of the road allowance could create challenges related to drainage, water management, road maintenance, and traffic impacts. MPC was encouraged to consider the long-term implications that future development may have on the County. MPC sought clarification regarding development potential to the south of the subject lands. The applicant advised that the lands south of the potato storage facility consist primarily of coulees, making future development unlikely. When questioned about expansion opportunities to the east, the applicant stated that steep cliffs significantly limit development in that direction. MPC asked whether the applicant would be willing to contribute to future road construction costs if neighbouring properties were developed. The applicant confirmed a willingness to pay for approximately one-third of the road improvements if development occurred. Further discussion focused on road construction requirements, future maintenance concerns, and the impacts of weather and road wear. The applicant stated that the operation is prepared for adverse weather conditions, including snowstorms, and that access routes are maintained as required. MPC expressed concern regarding the magnitude of the requested setback variance and the precedent it may set relative to the County's Land Use Bylaw. Members also questioned the access route currently used by neighbouring landowners. The applicant explained that the existing access is essentially a dirt trail that requires ongoing maintenance and that access to lands east of the property would be difficult without it due to the steep terrain. Page 4 of 9 Municipal Planning Commission June 11, 2026 Administration advised that the road allowance width is consistent with other County Road allowances and that a gravel road could likely be accommodated within the available right-of-way while meeting standard slope requirements. Administration further noted that the likelihood of significant development east of the subject lands appears low, as the surrounding area remains predominantly agricultural and is expected to continue as such. P-51126 MOVED BY COUNCILLOR HOLLY JOHNSON that the Municipal Planning Commission APPROVE Development Permit 2026023 for the installation of a 4 Agriculture Structures (grain bins) with a variance to the setback to the County Road. Three of the bins will be 53 m2(568 ft2) and one is 21 m2(231 ft2) in size and are located at on Lot 1, Block 2, Plan 1911442, SW 5-14-13-W4. This development approval is subject to the conditions outlined below. DP 2026023 is APPROVED for the following reasons: 1. The Development Authority is satisfied that the proposed development is suitable for the purpose for which it is intended under the Agriculture, General District Section 3, General Regulations and Section 4, Specific Uses and Activities, as specified in the County of Newell Land Use Bylaw 2016-21; except the proposed variance. 2. The proposed development complies with the Municipal Development Plan. If approved, the following conditions should be considered: 1. This approval is effective as of July 1, 2026 (21-day appeal period). 2. The development must be located as shown on the site plan approved with the application and submitted March 23, 2026. It must be built according to the description provided with this approval. Any changes shall require the written approval of the Development Authority. 3. That the proposed development complies with all Federal, Provincial and Municipal statutes, regulations, codes and standards. 4. That the following setbacks on all sides are maintained for this development: From County Road (north): 6 m (20 ft); variance from 30 m (100 ft) From County Road (west): 30 m (100 ft) 5. That no structures be located on a right of way or easement on the parcel. 6. That the developer must start construction before July 1, 2027, and the construction must be completed by July 1, 2028. In the event that these dates cannot be met, the developer must apply for an extension and may be required to apply for a new Development Permit. MOTION CARRIED RECESS MPC RECESSED at 10:55 a.m. and RECONVENED at 11:00 a.m. Page 5 of 9 Municipal Planning Commission June 11, 2026 7.3 DP 2026038 Operation of a Vehicle Services Business. The Development Officer provided background information on this item and responded to questions from MPC. MOTION CARRIED P-62126 MOVED BY COUNCILLOR NEIL JOHNSON that the Municipal Planning Commission APPROVE Development Permit 2026038 for the Operation of a Vehicle Services Business on Lot 2, Block 2, Plan 0011361, SE 18-19-14. This development approval is subject to the conditions outlined below. DP 2026038 is APPROVED for the following reasons: 1. The Development Authority is satisfied that the proposed development is suitable for the purpose for which it is intended under the Business, Rural District Section 3, General Regulations and Section 4, Specific Uses and Activities, as specified in the County of Newell Land Use Bylaw 2016-21. 2. The proposed development complies with the Municipal Development Plan. If approved, the following conditions should be considered: 1. This approval is effective as of July 1, 2026 (21-day appeal period). 2. That the use shall be as is listed on the application and any additional development or intensification shall require prior approval of a separate permit application 3. That the proposed development complies with all Federal, Provincial and Municipal statutes, regulations, codes and standards. 4. That the applicant obtains approved Safety Codes Permits for the development, specifically Building, Electrical, Gas, Plumbing and Private Septic Disposal where applicable. MOTION CARRIED 7.4 DP 2026039 Construction of an Accessory Building. The Development Officer provided background information on this item and responded to questions from MPC. The applicant was present to respond to questions from MPC. MOTION CARRIED P-53126 MOVED BY COUNCILLOR ARNO DOERKSEN that the Municipal Planning Commission APPROVE Development Permit 2026039 for the construction of a 780 m2 (8400 ft2) Accessory Building on Lot 1, Block 4, Plan 2210459, SE 31-20-14 W4. This development approval is subject to the conditions outlined below. DP 2026039 is APPROVED for the following reasons: Page 6 of 9 Municipal Planning Commission June 11, 2026 1. The Development Authority is satisfied that the proposed development is suitable for the purpose for which it is intended under the Rural, Business District Section 3, General Regulations and Section 4, Specific Uses and Activities, as specified in the County of Newell Land Use Bylaw 2016-21. 2. The proposed development complies with the Municipal Development Plan. If approved, the following conditions should be considered: 1. This approval is effective as of July 1, 2026 (21-day appeal period). 2. The development must be located as shown on the site plan approved with the application and submitted April 28, 2026. It must be built according to the description provided with this approval. Any changes shall require the written approval of the Development Authority. 3. That the proposed development complies with all Federal, Provincial and Municipal statutes, regulations, codes and standards. 4. That the applicant obtains approved Safety Codes Permits for the development, specifically Building, Electrical, Gas, Plumbing and Private Septic Disposal where applicable. Development can start after the required Construction Permits have been issued. 5. That the following setbacks on all sides are maintained for this development: From County Road (east): From other parcels (north): From Highway 550 (south) 30 m (100 ft) 6 m (20 ft) As per Alberta Transportation 6. That no structures be located on a right of way or easement on the parcel. 7. Any additional development or intensification shall require prior approval of a separate permit application. 8. That the developer must start construction before July 1, 2027, and the construction must be completed by July 1, 2028. In the event that these dates cannot be met, the developer must apply for an extension and may be required to apply for a new Development Permit. MOTION CARRIED 8. SUBDIVISIONS 8.1 Subdivision 2026-0-006 To subdivide a 2.445 ha. (6.04 acres) portion of the NW 12-15-14W4M for residential purposes. The Planning & Development Supervisor provided background information on the item and responded to questions from MPC. The applicant was present to respond to questions from MPC. Page 7 of 9 V Municipal Planning Commission June 11, 2026 P-64/26 MOVED BY COUNCILLOR DAN BAUMGARTEN that the MPC approve, with conditions, the subdivision of a 2.445 he. (6.04 acres) portion of the NW 12-15-14W4M for residential purposes, for the following reasons: 1. The proposed subdivision is consistent with the SSRP and complies with the County of Newell MDP, and the Land Use Bylaw. 2. The Subdivision Authority is satisfied that the proposed subdivision is suitable for the purpose for which the subdivision is intended pursuant to Section 7 of the Subdivision and Development Regulations. Conditions to be Considered: 1. That, pursuant to Section 654(1)(d) of the MGA, all outstanding property taxes shall be paid to the County of Newell. 2. That the applicant supplies copies of any utility right of way plans, easements, and/or agreements which are to be registered as a requirement for any affected utilities to the County prior to the subdivision's registration with Alberta Land Titles. 3. That, pursuant to Section 655(1)b of the MGA, the applicant enters into a Development Agreement with the County which shall be registered concurrently with the final plan against the title(s) being created. 4. That a 5 -metre-wide road right-of-way be dedicated by caveat along the RR 141 frontage. Reserve: The proposed subdivision complies with Section 663 (a) of the Municipal Government Act, being that one lot is to be created from a quarter section of land; therefore, Municipal Reserve is not applicable. MOTION CARRIED 9. OTHER BUSINESS There were no other business items to discuss at this meeting. 10. POST AGENDA ITEMS There were no post agenda items to discuss at this meeting. 11. IN CAMERA There were no in camera items to discuss at this meeting. 12. INFORMATION ITEMS There were no information items to discuss at this meeting. Page 8 of 9 Municipal Planning Commission June 11, 2026 13. QUESTION PERIOD A question period was held. No County ratepayers were in attendance. The moderator indicated that there were no questions from the public. 14. ADJOURN Being that the agenda matters have been concluded, the meeting adjourned at 11:07 a. m. Signed this � day of ol,d10 2026 MPC Chair County Administrator Page 9 of 9