Title
Road Closure Bylaw 2017-20 (TransAlta Whitewood Mine)
Proposed Motions
1. That Bylaw 2017-20 receive second reading.
2. That Bylaw 2017-20 receive third reading.
Body
Administration Recommendation
Administration supports the proposed motions.
Purpose
To close sections of undeveloped road allowance for the purpose of sale and consolidation into adjacent lands.
Summary
TransAlta Corporation made an application to have sections of road allowance closed for the purpose of sale and consolidation into adjacent lands, as identified in Bylaw 2017-20. These road allowances are located within the Whitewood Mine boundaries and are part of TransAlta's development and future reclamation plans for the area. Once consolidated, these connected parcels of land will form large undivided agricultural lands. This road closure is consistent with the Whitewood Mine Conceptual Scheme and the proposed Whitewood Mine redistricting Bylaw 2018-02.
The Municipal Government Act (MGA) of Alberta requires road closures to be advertised, obtain Minister of Transportation approval and allow persons who claim to be harmed by the bylaw to be heard by Council. The County has satisfied legislative requirements by advertising and conducting a public hearing on September 26, 2017. Road closure approval for Bylaw 2017-20 was obtained from the Minister of Transportation on February 20, 2018.
Strategic Plan/Policy/Legal/Staff Implications:
The request complies with Section 22 of the MGA and the County's Road Allowance and Diversions - Sales, Lease or Permitting Policy EN 009.
Financial Impact:
Revenue: Market value for the sale of the road allowance plus property tax revenue.
Source of Funding: N/A