Title
Potential Policy Development - Agricultural Impact Assessment
Proposed Motion
That the Committee receive the Potential Policy Development - Agricultural Impact Assessment report for information, as presented.
Body
Administration Recommendation
Administration supports the proposed motion, as presented.
Purpose
At the May 11, 2021, Council meeting, Administration was directed to prepare a report outlining information and potential policy development regarding Agricultural Impact Assessments for review at the February 1, 2022, Committee of the Whole meeting.
Summary
An Agricultural Impact Assessment (AIA) evaluates whether a development proposal will adversely affect existing and future agricultural activities within and surrounding a development. Currently AIAs are required by the Edmonton Metropolitan Region Board (EMRB) as part of the Growth Plan and Regional Evaluation Framework. In addition, the County’s Municipal Development Plan contains a policy that requires the completion of an AIA for new area structure plans in areas of high capability agricultural land. Given AIAs are only triggered at the time of a new Area Structure Plan, Administration recommends that Committee support the review of the requirement for Agricultural Impact Assessments as part of the upcoming Land Use Bylaw Optimization Strategy to commence in 2022.
Strategic Plan/Policy/Legal/Staff Implications:
The proposed amendment is consistent with the goals of the Municipal Development Plan 2017-14 and Council's Long Term Strategic Plan, including the Strategic Economic Diversification pillar.
Financial Impact:
Cost: N/A
Source of Funding: N/A