TASK FORCE MEETING DECEMBER 11, 2015 AGENDA PACKAGE …emrb.ca/Website/files/e4/e4194595-27f9-4f87-9f7a-5276cb0532f9.pdf · boundaries are not drawn as a hard line. Policies for different

TASK FORCE MEETING DECEMBER 11, 2015 AGENDA PACKAGE PART 2:

Part 2 contains material that will be presented for Information:

Item 5 - CAO Consultation Summary

Item 6 - Summary of CRB Committee Consultation

Item 6a-d - Committee Summaries

Item 13 - Draft Table Of Contents

Task Force Meeting: December 11, 2015 Growth Plan Update Task Force

DRAFT 11/24/2015

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Growth Plan Update CAO Meeting Summary, November 6, 2015 Policy Objectives & Initial Policy Directions

On November 6, 2015, the CRB hosted a meeting with CAOs from member municipalities to provide feedback on the Policy Objectives and Initial Directions for 3 Policy Areas for the Growth Plan Update: The Integration of Land Use and Infrastructure, Communities and Housing Choice and Agriculture. Eighteen municipal CAOs attended. After a presentation with an opportunity for plenary discussion, the CAOs broke into three roundtables to provide further feedback on the Policy Objectives and Initial Policy Directions. At the meeting, CAOs expressed overall support on the Policy Objectives and Initial Policy Directions, and indicated areas for refinement and further consideration.

Presentation on Policy Tiers

Melanie Hare presented the policy tiers. Comments Add infrastructure corridors in the mapping Add major industrial areas or corridors on the map. Review employment areas shown on

map (i.e. Energy Tech Park, Sturgeon industrial areas, St Albert) Add buffers to map - EIA, AVPA and Regional Heartland buffer area Consider how tiers relate to corridors Need to consider economic corridors – relationship between people and jobs Sturgeon Valley is a distinct area – needs to be considered CFB Edmonton is not a development area and needs to be acknowledged differently on

map – federal jurisdiction Need to consider Rural Centres that are not town and villages. Should they be shown on the

map? (i.e. growth hamlets) Need to add buffers to map Suggestion that an urban containment boundary be introduced

Presentation on Employment 2014 Update

Hassan Shaheen presented the 2014 regional employment updates.

Comments

Concerns that employment numbers are too low Is there a 2016 census update that would further inform the #’s? Darren Young indicated

that no, the Stats Can census release is likely to be sometime in February 2017, so after the Growth Plan


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Presentation on Initial Residential Land Need

Darren Young presented the initial residential land need assessment.

Gap noted – no density targets for intensification in the current Growth Plan. Need to include in Growth Plan update

Want to see industrial land need specifics and want to see a projection for 50 years because that is what all annexations in the region are doing. This means taking it beyond 2044.

Add land supply model assumptions. What is assumption that stops the Metro Area line on 127 Street? The issue is that the line stops at Sturgeon Valley.

Noted Rural land need #’s outstanding. CFB Edmonton should not be white on the map even if it is federal jurisdiction. Color it

as it is not available land. Country Residential land uses are a required and important housing form in the region. Questions on Sturgeon Valley. Need to re-visit density assumption in Sturgeon Valley –

move from ½ acre lots to urban density. Is it being treated as a hamlet? CRB needs to decide on what density is most appropriate for area.

Comments on Plan Implementation

Need to consider how CRB under a new Growth Plan will deal with/approve developments under already CRB approved MDPs?

Is it appropriate to introduce a staging approach for lands not needed to 2044? Suggestion that an urban containment boundary be part of Metro Structure. See a Growth Plan as one level above an MDP.

Policy Drafting Approach

Melanie Hare and Connie Gourley presented the policy drafting approach and the policy

objectives for three policy areas.

General Comments

Support for initial policy objectives and directions. Tone in the GP draft initial policies should reflect more of ‘promote and allow’ and not

‘direct, limit and prohibit’. Need to find opportunity to make the GP document approvable.

Be consistent in language to be permissive rather than restrictive


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Following the presentations and plenary discussion, the CAOs broke out into three

tables and had a facilitated discussion on the objectives and initial policy directions for

the three policy areas.

Overall comments

Language needs to be consistent across Policy Areas – permissive rather than restrictive to avoid negative tone

Overall support and positive reaction to Policy Objectives and Initial Policy Directions – headed in the right direction for the Plan Update

Integration of Land Use and Infrastructure

General Comments

Positive reaction to policy text. Reinforces what is intended. Challenge is development does not pay for itself Potential to introduce the role of fiscal analysis in the approval process

Contiguous and Compact Development

Concern how ‘compact and contiguous’ development pattern applies to the different tiers and Rural Area

Gap - Need to look at buffers related to industrial uses in the Rural Area may mean development cannot be contiguous e.g., Heartland and EIA AVPA. As well, hamlet boundaries are not drawn as a hard line. Policies for different tiers need to reflect the different contexts.

Add recognition of setbacks e.g., rail, AVPA in policy directions. Consider new community design that can be intensified later i.e., grid rather than cul-de sac Gap – Need to define employment nodes and avoid incompatible land uses e.g., Airport

AVPA and Heartland with buffer requirements. This will not result in contiguous development.

Gap – Need to include…’proximity to employment to reduce commute times’. Under ‘Definition and Overview of Growth Objective’ Add resource extraction and

processing Change wording from ‘enhance specialized transit and regional transit connections’ to

‘enhanced transportation connections’. Transit will not happen in the Rural Area. It is not dense enough in Towns, hamlets, villages.

Intensification of Existing Areas

Be explicit in wording to ensure you put higher density in Metro Core rather than in Metro Area in policy direction ‘Promote Growth Objective’. Check current wording and refine it.

Like that, the policy is focusing on growing existing communities. Need to Add Amendment process/criteria for when need can be demonstrated to grow in

new areas.


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Infrastructure Prioritization and Planning

Infrastructure Plans and the REF process Take care in how this is worded – not all infrastructure Other model is the CRISP used in Wood Buffalo

Use prioritization of regional infrastructure as a “carrot” and a tool to negotiate with Province Getting agreement about the priority infrastructure will be difficult

Focus on hard or civil infrastructure not social infrastructure Prioritizing Investment and Regional Infrastructure is laudable but how to do this is the

challenge. There is only a ‘limited pool of funds’ at the local level to put toward priority regional infrastructure. Question is ‘how will this be implemented?’

Implementation

Add focus on implementation in this policy area. Need more support on implementation than was given to PGAs in previous Growth Plan.

Communities and Housing Choice

Focusing Growth in Existing Communities

Strong support for focusing on growing existing communities Accommodating new growth in existing communities and prohibiting growth in new areas is

shortsighted. Too rigid and do not like it. There may be some circumstances for why you would need to establish growth in a ‘new’ area in order to take advantage of new opportunities. Policies should provide flexibility and criteria to accommodate this.

Country Residential

Agree with a focus on contain and intensify – this is happening naturally now Sturgeon Valley is 2u/ha Requirements for municipal service needs to be revisited i.e., CCR Need to consider the range of housing forms i.e., singles to townhouses Need to address resort development and golf course development in rural areas: Trestle

Creek proposal with communal servicing facilities Need to be specific about conditions and responsibilities related to growth of CR

Complete Community

Define “community” and use consistently - needs to be better defined; are they towns, villages, hamlets, and neighborhoods within cities? What is the difference between a “community” and an urban or rural center?

Need to define the scale of community – a neighborhood, a center, a city, a county Appropriate scale: in the counties might be delivered at a county scale, in a center might be

defined by the center


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Scale of completeness – a spectrum which is related to the level of service

Affordable Housing

Core and Affordable Housing should be delivered in proportion to the population Responsible communities meet the needs of their “communities” Policies need to establish a link to other levels of government for funding to implement

affordable housing. This comment applies to other items in other policy areas also. What constitutes “affordable housing”; affordable for whom? Need to address market affordability Affordability can partially address the need for greater affordability, but it cannot address it

completely; and it cannot address the geographic distribution due to the concentration of amenities and services within Edmonton – other mechanisms need to be found

Policy does not address: defining the size of a house i.e. micro housing vs monster home CRB role in assessing and understanding the future demographic and future trends for

housing absorption; creating a demand profile for the future population

Levels of Service

Level of Service – clarify that: Rural, Urban (includes rural level +), Core (includes rural+centre+)

Agriculture

Preservation of Prime Agricultural Lands and LESA

Be clear on how/what and why we are defining Prime Agriculture – to preserve it; to manage the regional resource; to maintain it for longest time possible; to consider prosperity of agricultural sector

Support for LESA but also suggest using CLI ++ with some criteria from LESA approach in the meantime

Need to ensure we have the best data to inform decisions/assessment – CLI alone may not be sufficient

Determine a timeline to put in place a LESA process Avoid words such as “prohibit” – especially when using an imperfect classification system

i.e., CLI, focus on “permit” i.e., where would you permit other land uses or which land uses would you permit on agricultural land – agricultural production

Rather than an ultimate policy, consider a CRB related process for determining outcomes on Agriculture land

Observation that preservation of agricultural land has increased and become a higher priority for Councils in the last year – the introduction of agricultural policy area is timely

Consider a layered approach to determining most valuable agricultural land for preservation – large and contiguous parcels, remove natural heritage, remove resource extraction and see what is left then protect this with highest levels of protection

Need to consider the role of agricultural production in food self-sufficiency for the CR


DRAFT 11/24/2015

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Really like the LESA approach to identifying what the priority agricultural lands are in the region. This approach will take us in the right direction.

Need the rigor of the LESA and a Regional Agriculture Master Plan to deal with Agriculture to help define where to grow.

Need the Province to fund the LESA and Regional Agriculture Master Plan. Policy Objective to ‘Preserve Prime Agricultural Lands’ may be too broad or restrictive from

a rural perspective. Towns and Villages need room to grow and policies need to provide flexibility to accommodate this growth.

Agricultural Master Plan

Focus this at the regional level: Make sure it complements not competes with County Ag Master Plans Opportunity to add to the understanding of agricultural characteristics in the region Focus on opportunities to “look forward” Potential to add a goal for local food production

Critical to involve the agricultural community as a key stakeholder in the Ag master plan but also in discussion of the Agriculture policies

Agree with Policy Objective to ‘Minimize Conversion of Prime Agricultural Land’ but policy direction to ‘prohibit conversion of prime lands to non-agricultural uses is too restrictive - Towns and Villages need room to grow. Need to build in some flexibility in policies to allow this.

Need the Province to fund the LESA and Regional Agriculture Master Plan. Like the policy direction to create a Regional Economic Development Strategy for

Agriculture. Need to include value-added agriculture as part of this.

General Comments on Agricultural Policy Objectives

Need to address fragmentation of agriculture land (first parcel out and subdivision into 80 ac parcels) as well as disposition of remnants

Need to clarify policy directions 3, 4 re timing of conversion of Ag lands; there also seems to be a contradiction between 3 and 4

Rules regarding growth that arise out of agricultural impact assessment are not clear Consider deleting last policy direction (# 12); seems to duplicate provincial responsibility, OR Change tone of all policy directions to be less negative, restrictive to more positive and

permissive in terms of what can be done on Ag lands.


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27 November 2015

Growth Plan Update CRB Committee Input to Policy Areas

To further inform the Growth Plan update 2.0, the Task Force invited the CRB committees - Land Use and Planning, Housing, Transit and Governance, Priorities and Finance to provide input to the descriptions of the priority issues identified for each of the policy areas from the different committee perspectives.

The Task Force was interested in understanding if there were any gaps or additional areas for consideration to inform the development of regional policies.

The CRB Project managers assembled the feedback into one summary report for each committee to review prior to being submitted to the Task Force for their review and consideration. Copies of the full summaries are included.

The following pages contain some of the key points from the feedback, prepared by CRB Administration. With few exceptions the following summary contains the actual wording from the submissions.

Areas of Support

Importance of the Agriculture Sector to this region and the need to support and enhance

Need to get the Province on board to support the preservation of Ag Land

Need for an efficient Regional Transportation system – roads, transit, air and rail as an enabler

of economic prosperity. needs to be highly coordinated

Importance of protecting Natural Living Systems and the environment – air, water, soil quality

Need more focus on new and emerging markets and industry sectors as part of Employment &

Economic Competitiveness

Tiered approach to policy development

Review of PGA’s and density targets with consideration for the unique topology of municipalities

Intensification within urban centers be encouraged where the opportunity exists

Mode shift toward more alternate transportation modes

Plan for specific infrastructure needs to support the unique needs of each (employment) cluster.

Fragmentation of agricultural lands needs to be discouraged, particularly in the urban shadow.

Country residential, in particular should not be encouraged through the GPU.

Think of Affordable Housing as smart economic policy

Need for a review of recreational uses of Environmentally Sensitive Areas as ATV’s are putting

pressure on rural landscapes

Need to put more thought into the where future employment clusters will locate and how will

that be addressed from and Economic Development, transportation and land use perspective

Exploration of funding models and cost/revenue sharing should be explored through the GPU so

that the region can continue to push forward towards successful regional outcomes that benefit


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all This could also be used as a mechanism to reduce intermunicipal competition and replace it

with regional cooperation

Need to address specialized transit and rural transportation

A seamless system regional transit system is important

The Plan must recognize unique contexts of each municipality

There should be joint infrastructure planning to ensure individual municipal networks align

across boundaries and that there is alignment with a regional transportation infrastructure

network that includes all modes of transportation, including active modes.

Promote the use of under utilized infrastructure through redevelopment and intensification of

existing built-up areas … this should be the primary focus of the Growth Plan.

Areas for further Consideration

Any proposed policies that protect wetlands, and their connectivity, on a regional basis needs to

also consider an education aspect to inform the public

CRB to lobby other orders of Government for funding for new technology to reduce emission

rate by Energy Sector or find solutions for the use of by products

There are good plans in place within member partners of the CRB, these should be explored for

possible amendment and adoption within the entire CRB

Recommend discussing dedicated rapid bus/HOV lanes on major corridors as a cost effective

way to reduce commuter congestion

More emphasis on technology, innovation, knowledge based industries into the plan

Find a mechanism for ranking major regionally required infrastructure in a similar fashion to

what is done with transportation by the CRB currently

Need to include other emerging markets that align with the realities of our region’s economy (

i.e. not only knowledge –based professions) consider Advanced manufacturing, Agri-Business,

Aerospace & Aviation, and Transportation /Logistics & Distribution

Consideration may need to be given in the development of policy on how regionally significant

projects that are funded/ executed by the province could be evaluated by the REF process

Instead of looking at infrastructure on a project basis, there could be merit in a REF process

around Master Plans (transportation, transit, utilities, etc.)

In the longer term there will be limits to how far LRT can provide practical service and it would

be beneficial to explore other regional transit options, including Bus rapid Transit (BRT) and

commuter rail

Regional public transit services are best provided within the context of a single operating entity

A regional handi-capped and seniors transit service needs to be planned for the outlying rural

areas of the CRB

As the population in rural communities’ ages, the challenge will be to accommodate viable

options for employment, recreation and living


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Density targets (greenfield/infill/non-residential) should reflect the availability of transit;

however, this should not be seen as a pass for communities that do not have transit to sprawl at

low density.

The need to be able to identify growth nodes around hamlets or encourage cluster country

residential development around existing zoning

Rural residential and hamlets need to be addressed far better in policy

The Plan should reflect the need for other orders of government to have specific public transit

policies thereby ensuring the impact of public transit use on reducing the environmental impact

of transportation systems

The Growth Plan should reflect the need for public transit to service employment clusters within

the region. Transit services ensure labour mobility

There should be joint infrastructure planning to ensure individual municipal networks align

across boundaries and that there is alignment with a regional transportation infrastructure

network that includes all modes of transportation, including active modes

Development density requirements need to include more thought around non-residential

developments in this update. Compact, efficient development should apply not only to

residential development but also to commercial development, and industrial development as

appropriate.

Establishing a single regional transit operating entity (commission) will enable funding of the LRT

system and regional PNR infrastructure

Basic level of regional active transportation infrastructure should be established, including

standards for crossing major barriers such as the Anthony Henday Drive or other major

highways

Caution should be exercised on full harmonization of standards. Having non-harmonized

standards gives the option of flexibility to allow for context sensitive designs so that the

transportation infrastructure is supportive for the surrounding land uses

Need policy support for a mode shift – parking management, toll charge, fuel tax etc.

A coordinated regional Mobility Management program (such as carpool/vanpool) should be part

of the strategy

Ensure connectivity between major recreation facilities / spaces and employment clusters, as

well as major transportation hubs

Need to coordinate trail linkages which supports recreational pursuits, provides active

transportation opportunities, that are located in urban as well as rural areas, that support

walkable communities, and that are inclusive and accessible

Park and ride locations that are regionally planned and strategically located are essential to

promote mode shift

Development of complete communities with fully developed local cycling and walking

infrastructure will allow mode shift for more local trips, such as shopping and trips to school

Joint development of service plans, especially related to key intercity routes or transfers, is

important to provide a service that is integrated and avoids excessive service overlap between

(transit) agencies


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Need a sustainable dedicated transit funding to support mode shift and help smaller

municipalities provide services

Public transit services within the region need to reflect specific residential areas. Conventional

transit services are not affordable in rural areas yet specialized needs exist

Unique alternative forms of public transit need to be explored to enable these needs to be met.

The organization and mobilization of these unique forms are best supported by a regional transit

commission

It will be important to define what diversity means within the different tiers – Metro Core versus

Rural and care will be needed to achieve this while recognizing the distinct character of each

community in the region

Creating a mechanism to coordinate and review infrastructure plans at a regional level is good

practice, however what level of “approval” will be sought, what is the process to give approval

and who will be involved in the approval process? This will also require a very good definition of

“regionally significant infrastructure”

There needs to be a common understanding of what prime agricultural lands are and how they

can be defined and delineated

Joint land use planning initiatives in the region would help ensure that appropriate land uses are

clustered around major infrastructure

It is important to allow for differentiation without enabling a ‘race to the bottom’ between

communities. Suggest that this be reworded to ‘Establish minimum standards for regionally

significant infrastructure” or similar.

Densification will require a change in the composition of housing forms across the region.

Targets should be set to accelerate a shift away from the predominance of single family

dwellings.

Greenfield development should be located to take advantage of existing infrastructure and in

areas of lower agricultural potential. There needs to be clear policy that prioritizes renewal and

intensification of development to maximize the region’s use of existing infrastructure over

Greenfield development.

Other Comments & Observations

Consideration needs to be given to changing needs in demographic groups, not just the

demographics themselves ( i.e. more active seniors; tendency for young adults to prefer transit,

impacts of new technology on the needs of different age groups)

With more rural communities within the CRB will face the most challenges in regards to an aging

population. These communities need to see the most attention towards growth development to

ensure the viability of the communities and that the amenities required to attract and retain

youth and a workforce are achievable

Housing options appropriate to each municipality supported by appropriate transportation

services will allow smaller, rural communities to retain their senior population


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The CRB should be more active to encourage institutional and government dispersal to outlying

rural communities to help diversify the communities and ensure the long term viability of the

Region in addition to attraction of industrial and commercial growth opportunities

Explore opportunities for partnerships with private sectors in developing transit services and

transit-oriented developments

A regional transit commission properly supported by provisional regulation will enable the

commission to expand the regional system without unduly burdening local municipalities with

additional capital debt. This to be assumed by the commission

The CRB’s Role in some policy areas? Management of Water Supply? Managing job growth?

Prioritization of investment? Funding of regional infrastructure?

Level of policies in the plan?

Complexity of establishing employment targets

Prioritization of regional infrastructure is a priority for rural members

Mixed level of support to expand the RFP process

A balance needs to be in place on the use of agricultural lands for growth in the same way as

urban neighbors utilize prime agricultural lands for their growth. This as a priority issue

Other levels of gov’t should be at the table. Fiscal impact analysis should be required for full

understanding now & into the future leading to better decision making

As reflected in CRB studies, coordinating and positioning the region includes addressing its

identity to distinguish it from other ‘capital regions’. Part of this has started through the

development of the Growth Plan vision

Aerotropolis (airport integrated development) is a great example of promoting regional

economic diversification and innovation in the short and long term future

More emphasis needs to be placed on attracting and developing a larger industrial processing

and manufacturing cluster.

Alberta and Canada as a whole are significant producers and exporters of agricultural products

to the world. The continued practice of agriculture and the preservation of a secure food supply

will not be an issue for generations to come

Will need to be careful that promoting of agricultural sector does not have the unintended

consequences of negatively impacting other key economic drivers

Not sure ‘compact (development)’ is appropriate for all of the regional growth, unless ‘compact’

has a different definition for different areas

Specific engagement among rural municipalities and representatives of the AG industry to

review Ag policies

The CRB needs to be actively engaged in seeing that not only the interests of the larger

members are facilitated but that the smaller centers needs are being met. Seeing rural

communities grow would also see that there is less need for long distance commuting

Agree with the need to coordinate land use and transportation and establishing transit funding

and a long term investment strategy … as long as these efforts are not solely centered on major

centers within the CRB


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It is envisioned (Lamont County) that we will be able to identify areas for residential growth

nodes to occur in order to service the expected industrial developments

Recognize in the growth plan update, that increased use of public transit is one element in

addressing the need to reduce GHG and energy consumption

Urban development and agricultural practices affect watershed in ways we still do not fully

understand. Long term monitoring of water quality trends and programs that support positive

agricultural and urban/rural landscape practices may prevent further degradation an provide

stakeholder connection between land practices and water management in the Capital Region

Address the lack of capacity (e.g. Composting sites) in the region to deal with waste generated in

an environmentally friendly manner

Look to improved mobility of people, goods & services with the view to the future. Urban &

rural context

Public transit infrastructure – such as park and ride locations, priority travel corridors etc.,

should be highlighted as employment enabling infrastructure

Public transit services provide for an increased quality of life for all within the region

Public transportation enables labour mobility that enables diversification of the energy sector

Density targets need to be respectful of the market needs in each area rather than blanket

expectations

Transit access needs to be considered in the redevelopment areas such as sidewalks and

pedestrian walkways from local neighborhoods to transit routes and stops

Incentive programs would help encourage and facilitate redevelopments

An area where infrastructure is under-utilized is large parking facilities in order to accommodate

auto oriented regional commercial centers

Consideration may need to be given in the development of policy around this topic on how

regionally significant projects that are funded/executed by the Province could be evaluated by

the REF process

Municipalities develop minimum standards based on their own historical infrastructure

performance, operation/maintenance perspectives, level of service, risk tolerance and economic

factors. Caution should be exercised when establishing minimum standards to apply across the

region as it is directly related to risk / level of service and may not align with municipal

autonomy, strategic plans, priorities or goals

A single transit operating entity will lead to harmonized fare structures, public transit service

standards, the integration of specialized transit services within the entire CRB

We need to define growth direction for every municipality

Increased public transit use may lead to the reduced need for added regional highway

infrastructure thereby reducing land required for roads

The first prerequisite for mode shift is a basic level of infrastructure for the alternate modes,

which for the regional active transportation network will require accommodation of crossing

major highway barriers, such as Anthony Henday Drive


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Transportation-related expenses are recognized as adding significantly to Affordable Housing

need of lower-income households, and therefore public policy should strive to provide

Affordable Housing in areas in proximity to public transit

Diversity of housing within all communities should not be interpreted narrowly to each

community having a range of housing built-forms (e.g. singles, row, apartment) but there should

be consideration extended on whether each community could also have a range of Affordable

Housing types that are accessible to area households in housing need to enable them to remain

in their communities of choice and not be forced to leave due to the lack of area nonmarket

housing options

If communities that are a distance from major centers promote aging-in-place and population

diversity, it is important to provide associated services. Otherwise, transportation would

become a big issue

All levels ( of government) need to be on the same page in order to collectively preserve and

maintain all the types of land and their uses

The transportation prioritization project has been a useful initiative (even if results have not yet

become apparent). Similar processes should be investigated for other infrastructure to

coordinate with land use

Not sure about specific emphasis on clusters…. Seems limiting… what about new markets and

opportunities

The interrelationships among markets (housing, labour, health, etc.) mean that supply shortfalls

in any component of the overall housing spectrum (i.e. Short-Term Accommodation, Affordable

Housing, Market Housing) will have ripple effects across those markets and on other parts of the

spectrum. This will in-turn will have an impact on the livability of the region and impact the

attractiveness of the region to the incoming workforce.

As noted in the ‘Choose to Lead’ report, leveraging our region’s relative strength in the energy

industry to promote diversification is necessary to achieve this goal. The Growth plan should not

attempt to artificially impose diversification; instead, it should look to nurture opportunities to

build upon the strengths of our existing energy sector by applying its existing considerable

knowledge and assets to new opportunities in order to enable a more diversified economy.

Boundary security needs to be addressed in conjunction with cost and revenue sharing

Not sure revenue sharing will go very far but cost sharing for regionally significant infrastructure

projects is important

A hierarchy should be established to prioritize infrastructure funding to redevelopment and

intensification of existing built-up areas first, then to planned Greenfield developments.

Goods movement routes are integral to the economic health of the region. Emphasis needs to

be placed on the protection of existing goods movement corridors and the strategic/efficient

expansion of this network

Must recognize that the diversity will be limited in some communities… complete communities

will be different depending on tier/size

Quite often smaller communities need to realize the services they are not able to offer, but a

neighboring community can.


Growth Plan Update

Policy Areas Framework

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Committee: Land Use & Planning

Committee Member:____________________

CRB Committee Consultation Land Use & Planning Committee

October 22, 2015

The input as submitted from members is included below. Notes:

A table has been prepared for each priority issue with the comments provided by each member. Some of the responses were related to directly to the supporting statements which have been

added in the table (bulleted) to give context to the input. Where comments have been made outside the Priority Issues I have inserted the comment in

brackets or added it at the end of the Priority Issue.


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Growth Plan Update Land Use & Planning Committee Consultation

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CRB Committee Consultation The Task Force has approved and established the Principles, Policy Areas, Objectives of each Policy Area, and the Priority Issues the Growth Plan Update needs to address in each Policy Area, as outlined in the Briefing Note provided at the Committee meeting.

The Task Force is looking for the Committees to provide input and comments on each of the priority issues in the Briefing Note. The Committee is requested to review the supporting statements (bullet points) under each of the priority issues, as shown below, and provide input that will assist the consultants and Task Force in the development of policies for each of the Policy Areas.

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When reviewing each of the priority issues and supporting statements ask yourself the following: Is the supporting statement relevant to the issue?

Does the supporting statement address the substance of the issue?

Is further clarification of the supporting statement required?

What other related issues should be addressed? Sample responses are provided below.

Principle Policy Area

Objectives

Priority Issue

Committee Input



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Protect natural living systems and environmental assets. We will practice wise environmental stewardship and promote the health of the regional ecosystem by protecting watersheds and environmentally sensitive areas. Policy Area: Natural Living Systems

What are we trying to achieve?

Thriving natural living systems and their environmental assets, including healthy land base and watershed, abundant wildlife (Only wildlife? All living things – Crouse), clean air and water

A healthy environment with connected regional natural systems to enhance liveability in the region

A balance that supports a healthy environment, agriculture and recreational uses

A strategy to anticipate and address climate change and promote resiliency at the regional scale

People - Crouse

What are the priority issues the Growth Plan Update needs to address?

1. Value, protect and enhance natural ecosystems including regionally significant natural areas and their regional connectivity

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County No additional comment Patricia Lee, Bruderheim No comment Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask No comment David Mackenzie, City of Leduc Reinforce the protection of natural systems in relation to growth and

resiliency (ability to adapt to changes in the climate and economy) Focus on environmental stewardship – a regional understanding,

policy approach and means of implementation Consider cumulative impacts of growth on natural systems

Agree with all of the above. Protecting and enhancing our natural ecosystems should become a higher priority to ensure future generations can enjoy a healthy environment. The environment does not have local boundaries, so an integrated regional approach would be beneficial for a more comprehensive solution.

Look at incentives to retain and manage natural areas on private lands

Incentives may be an effective way to help manage natural areas on private lands, but is this strategy appropriate at the intended level of this plan?

Create a policy framework that support up to a provincial level – baseline of protection at a regional level

We will need more details on this topic before we can comment. Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair No comment Ed Gibbons, Edmonton The term “value” can be both qualitative and quantitative and this



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probably warrants some consideration of how to quantify the value of regionally significant areas. This also raised the question of how we evaluated areas where ‘enhancement’ or degradation has taken place.

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain No additional comment

2. Plan development that promotes clean air, land and water, reduces energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, and remediates and reuses brownfield lands

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County No additional comment Patricia Lee, Bruderheim Through promotion of clean air, land and water future generation will have

less health issues because of poor environment previously Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask Not sure how we will “plan” this type of development. Would we be better

off using the word “promote” given that its difficult to plan for development that achieves those goals outside of public transit.

David Mackenzie, City of Leduc Explore opportunities to enhance the resiliency of communities and infrastructure networks

Consider impact of severe weather events in assessing infrastructure needs and investment

Link land use policies with environmental policies to consider cumulative impacts on natural systems and the environment

Create a regional adaptation and resiliency strategy

Perhaps there are two or even three separate policy topic areas here: 1) promoting the health/preservation of the environment through prevention of environmental degradation, and 2) addressing the effects of existing environmental impacts of climate change on our communities.

“Remediates and reuses brownfield lands” is not directly addressed in the sub-topics and needs more detail.

Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair “reduces energy consumption” – Really? Ed Gibbons, Edmonton Implementation of policy on this issue will be challenging without any

incentives or penalties. This needs to be tied in to the efficient use of land very consciously.

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Not sure about reducing energy consumption… This may be a goal but what we want is most efficient use of energy consumption and limiting gas emissions.

3. Protect and conserve the North Saskatchewan River watershed

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County No additional comment Patricia Lee, Bruderheim No comment Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask Add in “while promoting access for education and recreation opportunities.” David Mackenzie, City of Leduc Ensure growth protects the region’s watershed for next 30-50 years

Confirm sufficient water supply to accommodate the region’s projected employment and population growth

It would be helpful to have more information on this topic. Water licensing is under provincial jurisdiction. How does the CRB envision its role in studying and managing our water supply? What are the projected impacts on member municipalities?



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4. Manage conflict between natural living systems, natural resource extraction, solid waste, and energy corridors to minimize fragmentation of natural systems

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County No additional comment Patricia Lee, Bruderheim No comment Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask No comment David Mackenzie, City of Leduc Integrate and align policies related to natural systems across the

region/municipalities Explore the impacts of planned energy corridors on natural systems Understand the solid waste impacts related to the natural living system Look at energy corridors and resource extraction through sustainability

lens

These topics are generally regulated at the provincial level. Is the intent to develop a framework for the CRB to collaborate and align with the Province?

Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair No comment Ed Gibbons, Edmonton Returning to the idea of quantitative value, balancing these will be

difficult. To do so will require prioritization between the environment and growth/economic development. If areas are designated as important natural features, there have to be corresponding trade-offs in the resource extraction and energy corridors, not to mention development in general.

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Like the word ‘minimize’.

5. Align regional policies with provincial and federal policies, standards and regulations, including the North Saskatchewan Regional Plan

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County No additional comment Patricia Lee, Bruderheim All levels need to be on the same page in order to collectively preserve

and maintain all the types of land and their uses

Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair Only North Saskatchewan? Ed Gibbons, Edmonton The NSR watershed is a large area the extent of which is much

larger than the Capital Region. Activities within the watershed have an impact on water quality and quantity – important considerations when considering the growth of agriculture, industry, and area population. Protection and conservation of the watershed is a multi-jurisdictional responsibility and it is important for the CRB to recognize their supportive role. Recognizing/integrating the many passive and active, structured and unstructured recreational opportunities throughout the watershed contributes to area livability. In addition to “protect and conserve” the CRB may wish to consider advocacy for municipalities for certain kinds of issues [for example to be wetland conservation mitigation agents, encourage municipal use of crown water bodies as part of the natural drainage system]. Advocacy may also include the establishment of a series of continuous green- and blueways throughout the watershed.

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Prefer protection of region’s watershed into the future without limiting it to 30-50 years.



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Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask No comment David Mackenzie, City of Leduc No comment Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair Land use Provincial policy alignment Ed Gibbons, Edmonton ● Depending on provincial and federal expectations (policies, standards,

regulations), when local needs are taken into consideration it may be appropriate in certain instances for provincial and federal expectations to be considered minimum requirements – “align with” but consider the potential to exceed. ● The policy area includes “a strategy to anticipate and address climate change” but it is not specifically referenced in the “issues” section. – “anticipating and mitigating the impacts of climate change on natural systems” might be the issue.

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Important to align with provincial and federal policies but that presumes that they will develop and have them for reference in timely manner.

Promote economic competitiveness and regional prosperity. We will foster a diverse and innovative economy that builds upon our existing strengths, infrastructure and employment areas to achieve sustained economic growth and prosperity. Policy Area: Economic Competitiveness & Employment


An excellent quality of life to attract and retain workers and live - Crouse

The efficient use of existing infrastructure and investment in future infrastructure to support economic growth

Growth and expansion of existing employment clusters to compete on a global scale

A diverse and resilient regional economy to remain competitive in a changing global economy

People – Crouse

Consider: anticipate and mitigate effects of climate change on economic sustainability - Gibbons


1. Define and foster existing employment clusters

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County Replace the word ‘define’ with ‘recognize’. Note that Nisku/Leduc is the

largest energy industrial park in Canada (source). Patricia Lee, Bruderheim No comment Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask No comment David Mackenzie, City of Leduc Grow and distinguish existing employment areas and regional

economic drivers

A lot of importance seems is being placed on existing employment areas, which is important for reducing unnecessary sprawl and reducing incompatible uses. However, let’s not forget about the importance of



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fostering new and emerging markets and employment clusters. In order for future diversification of the economy to be sustained, new lands to grow new sectors should be understood and identified as well, especially areas that are contiguous to existing employment clusters and regional infrastructure (e.g. supporting new and emerging “Aerotropolis” clusters around the Edmonton International Airport).

Focus on regional employment clusters – cluster things together where they have existing and potential relationships, leverage assets and infrastructure and related economic activities

Provide direction on any future employment lands

We should be clear that we are not trying to be overly prescriptive here. It may be more appropriate to think along the lines of “strategically guiding future employment lands, while supporting the diversity of new and emerging industries”.

Plan for specific infrastructure needs to support the unique needs of each cluster

Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair Hard to do; impossible Ed Gibbons, Edmonton ● Existing employment clusters are important, but there needs to be

thought put into where the future employment clusters will be located, and how that will be addressed from an economic development, transportation and land use perspective in the plan. ● Infrastructure decisions and energy corridor selection needs to consider the existing and future location for employment areas.

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain ‘recognize and define’

2. Plan for a full range of employment from heavy industrial to office and institutional and government uses in the region

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County This is too onerous a task for the CRGP to address and not useful to the

regional perspective needed in the growth plan. Rather than attempt to define land use breakdowns across the region, the growth plan should plan for/recognize regionally significant industry clusters.

Patricia Lee, Bruderheim Support post secondary institutions to provide future employees in the workforce, wherever that may be.

Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask No comment David Mackenzie, City of Leduc Provide direction on managing job growth in a range of employment

types: heavy to light industrial, commercial, major retail, office

The prospect of the CRB providing direction on managing job growth creates concerns. Prescriptive policies should be avoided, in order to ensure clustering and market innovation is fostered and the high-level nature of the CRB Growth Plan is maintained.

Recognize employment areas and other concentrations of employees such as in downtowns

Agreed. But let’s remember that there are numerous important employment nodes aside from downtown areas. For example, supporting a



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variety industrial employment areas is equally important (both inside and outside of the City of Edmonton) will be critical to the region’s economic sustainability..

Define employment areas/uses with potential to achieve higher employee densities and access to transit

Define employment land supply and capacity for next 30-50 years

When we talk about “defining” in a 30-50 year context, we should be careful, and remember that employment and job growth responds to rapidly changing market demands and technological shifts. Long-range perspective policies that cannot account for technological and shifts could be counterproductive.

Promote economic sectors with relevance on regional scale that contribute to regional economic growth and global competiveness

Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair Home base business is huge; cannot include Ed Gibbons, Edmonton Office, institutional and government uses need to be concentrated in

areas where transit is available. Future heavy industrial areas need to consider buffering requirements, transportation routes for goods and energy corridor locations.

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Ok to note but what responsibility does CRB have for this? 3. Plan and coordinate infrastructure to foster and support employment clusters and economic

competitiveness

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County The transportation prioritization project has been a useful initiative (even if

results have not yet become apparent). Similar processes should be investigated for other infrastructure to coordinate with land use.

Patricia Lee, Bruderheim No comment Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask No comment David Mackenzie, City of Leduc Focus on goods and people movement in and out of the region

Agreed. While public transit is suitable for moving a certain ratio of workers, especially knowledge-based professions, a thriving economy will continue to rely on strong and well connected road and highway systems, cargo rail, air transport to ensure the efficient movement of goods into, out of, and throughout region.

Address infrastructure needs for next 30-50 years to support growth of employment clusters

Identify mechanism for 3-5 year infrastructure planning to coordinate and align regional infrastructure investment

The CRB Growth Plan is supposed to be a high level regional plan, and can be used to guide provincial decisions on infrastructure investment over the long term. However, a new definitive approval mechanism would be inappropriate and inefficient at the CRB level.

Align land use, infrastructure and capital planning horizons at the regional and provincial levels

Our understanding that this would be to obtain the necessary buy-in from



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the Province for the updated CRGP. If that is not the case, then we request further clarification and discussion. Set servicing and intensification standards

Engineering and planning standards vary from municipality to municipality, creating diversity amongst our unique communities. Exploring unification of these types of standards may be worth exploring, but may prove to be onerous and lead to overly homogeneous built forms throughout the region.

Plan for infrastructure, energy and utility corridors Identify economic clusters, define distinct roles and infrastructure

To a point. However, it is also important to understand that markets will evolve and new clusters will arise. We want to promote innovation. Employment clusters are very subtle entities requiring a diverse array of upstream and downstream inputs and outputs. The CRGP should remain high level guide to planning our region and be careful of being overly prescriptive at the local level, so that employment areas are able to evolve over time.

Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair “support employment clusters” – really? Identify mechanism for 3-5 year infrastructure planning to coordinate

and align regional infrastructure investment

3 year is short-term and not CRB job. Ed Gibbons, Edmonton Find a mechanism for ranking major regionally required infrastructure in a

similar fashion to what is done with transportation by the CRB currently. Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Not sure about specific emphasis on clusters…. Seems limiting… what

about new markets and opportunities.

4. Promote liveability and plan for the needs of a changing population and workforce

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County Promotion of infill and higher density in mixed use developments should

promote these principles while reducing pressures on infrastructure and agricultural land.

Patricia Lee, Bruderheim Address the issue of transient workers who call another town, province, home

Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask No comment David Mackenzie, City of Leduc Address liveability factors including quality of life, housing and

transportation to attract and retain workers

Yes. Retaining and attracting skilled workers is, and will continue to be, a major issue to address in order to ensure the region continues to be competitive and can provide the supply of skilled labour needed to grow our economy. An example would be supporting the expansion of post-secondary campuses through satellite campuses in the region.

It is important to protect and promote a diverse range of lifestyle options to



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ensure a diverse, healthy and competitive region.

Develop a regional transportation network to support mobility and access to jobs

Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair Revise “changing” to “evolving” Ed Gibbons, Edmonton The interrelationships among markets (housing, labour, health, etc.) mean

that supply shortfalls in any component of the overall housing spectrum (i.e. Short-Term Accommodation, Affordable Housing, Market Housing) will have ripple effects across those markets and on other parts of the spectrum. This will in-turn has an impact on the livability of the region and impact the attractiveness of the region to the incoming workforce.

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Clarify what is meant by liveability … and also what is meant by ‘changing or evolving’.. is this where we note regional transportation network or is it a priority issue on its own?

5. Recognize that diversification of energy sector is necessary to respond to future economic opportunities

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County As noted in the ‘Choose to Lead’ report, leveraging our region’s relative

strength in the energy industry to promote diversification is necessary to achieve this goal. The Growth plan should not attempt to artificially impose diversification; instead, it should look to nurture opportunities to build upon the strengths of our existing energy sector by applying its existing considerable knowledge and assts to new opportunities in order to enable a more diversified economy.

Patricia Lee, Bruderheim No comment Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask No comment David Mackenzie, City of Leduc No comment Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair No comment Ed Gibbons, Edmonton Diversification is a good start; but there should also be recognition of all

the major employers in the region such as government, health care, and research/education in our post-secondary institutions. The CRB should continue to foster their success, as well as advocate for their continued sustainability to the Provincial/Federal governments.

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain This could apply to other sectors as well. 6. Position the region to leverage future economic drivers, emerging markets and potential growth

sectors

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County As noted above, it is important to build on our existing strengths to enable

growth into emerging markets and future opportunities/economic drivers. This applies to the energy sector, but also to the agricultural sector, the transportation sector and so on.

Patricia Lee, Bruderheim No comment Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask No comment David Mackenzie, City of Leduc Aerotropolis (airport integrated development) is a great example of

promoting regional economic diversification and innovation in the short and



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long-term future. It is also a good example of how a percentage of knowledge-based office jobs will emerge, a large portion will continue to be in high value manufacturing and distribution jobs.

Position the region to leverage opportunities presented by emerging markets

Yes. Keep the CRBGP at a high enough level to avoid prescriptive policies to avoid stifling innovation and growth.

Identify and advance current and potential growth sectors: health and education, innovation; knowledge economy; waste management

Ensure that we include other emerging markets that align with the realities of our region’s economy (i.e. not only the knowledge-based professions). We suggest adding Advanced Manufacturing, Agri-Business, Aerospace & Aviation, and Transportation/Logistics & Distribution to this list. Promote innovation in oil and gas sector (for example: oil and gas

recycling etc.)

Yes. Therefore, flexibility and allowing for creativity around future new employment typologies and locations will be important. We should avoid a “one size fits all” model to ensure overregulation does not impede creativity and diversification of emerging employment nodes.

Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair ?? what does this mean? Promote innovation in oil and gas sector (for example: oil and gas

recycling etc.)

Promote diversification Ed Gibbons, Edmonton ● As reflected in CRB studies coordinating and positioning the region

includes addressing its identity to distinguish it from other ‘capital’ regions. Part of this has started through the development of the Growth Plan vision with the development of the term Edmonton Metro Region. ● We are used to thinking of Affordable Housing as a social and health issue but working to meet affordable housing needs is also smart economic policy. An inadequate supply of Affordable Housing can be a major impediment to business investment and growth, can prematurely ‘age’ low-density communities, and can influence immigrants’ choices of where to locate. New Affordable Housing construction and the rehabilitation of existing Affordable Housing produce many direct and indirect benefits for the local economy. The production and management of such housing supports economic growth and stimulates all aspects of the construction and related industries. Good housing stock increases tax revenues. Beyond this, affordable housing dramatically improves the economic situation of its residents.

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Yes, this applies to the various sectors and emerging markets… It seems that many comments in the consultation are related and perhaps redundant… and this is an example of that.



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7. Address funding models and cost and revenue sharing

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County Boundary security needs to be addressed in conjunction with cost and

revenue sharing. Patricia Lee, Bruderheim No comment Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask Not sure revenue sharing will go very far but cost sharing for regionally

significant infrastructure projects is important. David Mackenzie, City of Leduc Create win-wins through regional joint venture model

Address funding models to allow for success – revenue sharing as model

Share non-residential wealth Link employment clusters to the potential for ‘wealth sharing’

These suggested strategies will require a more robust description and discussion so that all of the implications, costs and benefits, can be better understood.

Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair No comment Ed Gibbons, Edmonton Exploration of funding models and cost/revenue sharing should be

explored through the Growth Plan Update so that the region can continue to push forward towards successful regional outcomes that benefit all. This could also be used as a mechanism to reduce intermunicipal competition and replace it with regional cooperation.

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Not sure what is meant by address… maybe ‘identify’ might be more appropriate.

We need to add in some points about the coordination of infrastructure investments with the economic drivers in Alberta. Economic development should not be thought of separately from infrastructure - Katchur

8. People - Crouse.

Achieve compact growth that optimizes infrastructure investment. We will make the most efficient use of our infrastructure investments by prioritizing growth where infrastructure exists and optimizing use of new and planned infrastructure.

Policy Area: Integration of Land Use & Infrastructure


A clear definition of where and how to grow over the next 30 years (50 years – Crouse) to guide both residential and job growth

Logical, efficient and financially sustainable regional growth patterns

Contiguous and compact development and redevelopment patterns to minimize the development footprint, and optimize existing and new infrastructure

An excellent quality of life within the region, with access to amenities and services

Coordination and logical phasing of regionally significant infrastructure planning and investment

A growth strategy to minimize the cumulative impacts on the environment and reduce greenhouse gas emissions

Reduce leapfrog development and the start up of new urban areas in rural districts - Katchur



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1. Establish a development pattern that is compact and contiguous by defining criteria for urban, rural and hamlet growth.

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County The concept of “defining criteria for urban, rural and hamlet growth” is

problematic as there is no common definition for ‘urban’, ‘rural’ or ‘hamlet’. For example, Sherwood Park can be defined as at least two of these terms, even within Leduc County itself the term ‘hamlet’ has a very broad definition as it applies to areas such as the former Village of New Sarepta and the Hamlet of Looma – these have significantly different built forms. Likewise, the term ‘rural’ can apply to a type of municipality, a type of landscape/built-form, a level of service provision, and so on. It is important that the CRGP focus on built-form and not attempt to dictate responsibilities to its member-municipalities.

Patricia Lee, Bruderheim No comment Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask Eliminate the potential for country cluster development. David Mackenzie, City of Leduc Apply density targets to both employment and residential growth.

The CRBGP’s residential density targets has created a number of major issues since the original growth plan was released. Residential density targets should be reviewed and tested carefully with communities throughout the region.

PGAs and residential density targets need to be reviewed. It will be advantageous to explore a minimum, but no ceiling for urbanized areas in order to promote sustainability, reduce sprawl and avoid homogeneity. When reviewing residential density targets, each municipality’s unique typology should be considered. A principle of proportional increases could be considered (e.g. achieving a certain percentage above and beyond existing densities, with consideration for each municipality’s unique context).

Defining appropriate density targets for employment would be far more complex and impactful than residential targets, and could be detrimental to the region`s economy if the targets are inaccurate. We suggest ensuring any residential density targets are appropriate in this version of the CRBGP, before attempting employment targets.

For example, number of employees per hectare does not necessarily provide an appropriate criteria or value for employment areas. In some cases, a “low density” (i.e. lower proportion of employees per hectare) industrial or agricultural land uses can prove to be high-value land uses in terms of production/GDP generation.

Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair Why not city and county Ed Gibbons, Edmonton ● There should be joint infrastructure planning to ensure individual

municipal networks align across boundaries and that there is alignment with a regional transportation infrastructure network that includes all modes of transportation, including active modes.



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● Development density requirements need to include more thought around non-residential developments in this update. Compact, efficient development should apply not only to residential development but also to commercial development, and industrial development as appropriate. ● If the CRB can advocate for compact growth by ensuring schools and health care facilities use land more efficiently (i.e. fewer single storey buildings).

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Not sure that compact is appropriate for all of the regional growth .. unless ‘compact’ has different definition for different areas.

2. Identify mixed-use and higher density centres and areas to concentrate people and jobs

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County No comment Patricia Lee, Bruderheim No comment Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask No comment David Mackenzie, City of Leduc More details will be required to understand the implications, especially for

smaller centers and industrial/business park areas.

Increase density in built-up areas through redevelopment

Yes, where possible and a market exists. But, we need to make sure that each municipality’s unique context is understood. For example Edmonton’s core mature neighbourhoods can support much higher density infill than smaller communities on the periphery.

Consider mixed use centres as places to promote compact growth

Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair Including infill Ed Gibbons, Edmonton ● Higher density land uses will require additional infrastructure investment,

especially for transportation, so that a variety of trip modes are available, including transit and active modes. Even with the additional infrastructure requirements, these areas would be more efficient than a divergent, low-density area. ● Mixed use town centres will require effective street design in order to accommodate multi-modal travel and should emphasize a variety of modes, as opposed to auto-oriented commercial.

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain This is unclear….. not sure of the point…. Maybe better to separate.

3. Promote the use of under utilized infrastructure through redevelopment and intensification of existing built-up areas

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County This should be a primary focus of the growth plan. Patricia Lee, Bruderheim No comment Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask No comment David Mackenzie, City of Leduc Redevelopment is a priority and important to optimize existing

infrastructure and limit development footprint Need for explicit support for redevelopment at regional level given

opposition at community-level



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Again, we need to make sure that each municipality’s unique context is understood in terms of redevelopment.

Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair No comment Ed Gibbons, Edmonton ● An area where infrastructure is under-utilized is large parking facilities in

order to accommodate auto oriented regional commercial centres. ● Another analysis that could be done is to evaluate current transportation infrastructure utilization and promote growth in areas where the facilities are not being used to capacity. ● Direct growth towards neigbourhoods where schools are underutilized. ● Providing Affordable and Infill Housing in complex environments such as already built-up (e.g. established) neighbourhoods requires a transparent, accountable and inclusive public engagement processes that build relationships, trust and credibility with organizations, stakeholders and citizens

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Seems to reinforce infill but says it in a different way.

4. Prioritize investment and funding of regional infrastructure to support planned growth

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County This investment should also prioritize redevelopment and intensification of

existing built-up areas. A hierarchy should be established to prioritize infrastructure funding to redevelopment and intensification of existing built-up areas first, then to planned Greenfield developments.

Patricia Lee, Bruderheim No comment Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask No comment David Mackenzie, City of Leduc No comment Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair No comment Ed Gibbons, Edmonton ● Regional transit, including park and ride facilities, will be a key measure

to ensure growth of communities that will require access to the Edmonton central business district for access to employment ● Promoting compact growth around existing and planned transit infrastructure would minimize the overall investment in transit.

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Seems ok but not sure of the implications.

5. Identify mechanisms for integrating and coordinating growth and infrastructure plans at the municipal and regional levels, including a regional evaluation framework, to approve regionally significant infrastructure projects

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County Collaborative intermunicipal planning should be the key mechanism for

integrating and coordinating regional and municipal plans. Intermunicipal development plans are subject to REF. Therefore, it would be more efficient to require comprehensive IDP’s that address land use and infrastructure for priority growth areas. These could be evaluated against the Growth Plan and regional infrastructure priorities as discussed above.

Patricia Lee, Bruderheim No comment Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask No comment



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David Mackenzie, City of Leduc Create a mechanism to coordinate and review infrastructure plans at regional level

Adapt REF process to approve infrastructure with regional significance

We disagree with developing such a mechanism. The CRBGP should continue to be a high-level guiding document to help guide regional growth. While it can be used to influence provincial decisions around infrastructure, a new definitive approval mechanism at this level would be inappropriate and inefficient for the CRBGP, and would take too much autonomy away from independent municipalities.

Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair Adapt REF process to approve infrastructure with regional significance

Great! Ed Gibbons, Edmonton ● This analysis should consider a full cost accounting framework that

includes the environmental and health costs in addition to financial over the lifecycle of the development. ● Consideration may need to be given in the development of policy around this topic on how regionally significant projects that are funded/executed by the Province could be evaluated by the REF process. ● Instead of looking at infrastructure on a project basis, there could be merit in a REF process around Master Plans (transportation, transit, utilities, etc). It’s been suggested that service commissions (water, sewer) also would not fit under the mandate of the CRB, but coordination of utility master plans may be a way to ensure their plans are coordinated with the Growth Plan.

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Examples of regionally significant projects would provide clarity of intent. 6. Harmonize regionally significant infrastructure policies and standards across the region

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County It is important to allow for differentiation without enabling a ‘race to the

bottom’ between communities. Suggest that this be reworded to ‘Establish minimum standards for regionally significant infrastructure” or similar.

Patricia Lee, Bruderheim No comment Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask No comment David Mackenzie, City of Leduc Encourage harmonization – yes. But to predetermine through a new REF

decision making process is inappropriate at the CRB level. Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair What does Harmonize mean in this context?

Standards would stop race to the bottom for development and resolve

price equity issues “stop race to bottom” – change this

Ed Gibbons, Edmonton ● Basic level of regional active transportation infrastructure should be established, including standards for crossing major barriers such as the Anthony Henday Drive or other major highways. ● Caution should be exercised on full harmonization of standards. Having non-harmonized standards gives the option of flexibility to allow for context sensitive designs so that the transportation infrastructure is supportive for the surrounding land uses.

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Not sure of what harmonize would look like… maybe minimum standards would be better.



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7. Ensure infrastructure investment enables the maximization of economic employment clusters for movement of goods and people. - Katchur

8. Address the implications of the annexation process as it relates to the priority growth nodes to create efficient growth and minimize conflict. - Katchur

Ensure the wise management of prime agricultural resources. In the context of metropolitan growth, we will ensure the wise management of agricultural resources to continue a thriving agricultural sector. Policy Area: Agriculture


A prosperous and growing agricultural sector and a thriving regional food system

A strategy for where and how communities grow in way that protects and conserves prime agricultural lands

Direction on where and when agricultural lands can develop for non-agricultural uses and rural residential development (What do we mean by “rural residential development”? We have an issue with that statement. Why are we promoting that at all? The word “rural” should be replaced with “urban”. – Katchur)

A strategy that minimizes fragmentation of prime agricultural lands and reduces conflicts between adjacent non-agricultural and agricultural uses


1. Sustain prime agricultural lands at the regional level

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County There needs to be clear policy that allows for the identification and long-

term protection of key agricultural lands within the region. There is a growing understanding of the importance of agriculture to the Capital Region’s future has the opportunity to capitalize on this opportunity for the future of the area.

Patricia Lee, Bruderheim No comment Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask Should this read “Designate areas as “agricultural preservation”. We don’t

like this wording as it implies all current ag lands are to be sustained. David Mackenzie, City of Leduc Address staging of future growth, policy approach to respond to

pressure on the land relative to its tier Identify future land requirements for residential, commercial, industrial

uses as relates to 30 year planning horizon Major impact of land speculation on agricultural viability - need to

provide certainty in terms of agricultural producers return on investment and sustaining agricultural uses in the region for the future

Explore Agricultural Impact Statements, Density Transfer, Ecological Goods and Services and other conservation tools

Explore direction for a regional agricultural master plan to provide regional perspective on value of agricultural sector, land and its role in sustaining rural communities and rural economic development



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Agreed in principle with exploring these important yet sensitive policy areas/strategies, while being inclusive and sensitive to the input of our rural members’ and agricultural producers.

Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair “Sustain” – can’t do Ed Gibbons, Edmonton ● There needs to be a common understanding of what prime agricultural

lands are and how they can be defined and delineated. ● Some policy on this is necessary, but it will likely require that the Province get involved since there will be an inherent conflict between preservation of agricultural lands and the ability of landowners to use their land.

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Some prime agriculture land likely will be used for development related growth so key is minimizing this occurrence … not sure what sustain means.

2. Manage near neighbour impacts on agriculture operations

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County Clear policy identifying and protecting prime agricultural lands enables

policy development to manage near neighbor impacts. Patricia Lee, Bruderheim How the quality of the land may be affected by an industry within a certain

radius Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask No comment David Mackenzie, City of Leduc Agreed in principle with exploring these important yet sensitive policy

areas/strategies, while being inclusive and sensitive to the input of our rural members’ and agricultural producers.

Define near urban/neighbour areas and related policy responses to minimize impacts on agricultural activities

Consider if land use conflicts in terms of noise, dust, odour, transportation require regional policy in addition to provincial policy

Address fragmentation of agricultural lands from non-agricultural uses including urban development and infrastructure

Explore interface between urban and rural – hard edge or transition edge?

We need to define growth direction for every municipality. Let’s discuss and better understand the interface today, and where it should be tomorrow.

Define compatible agriculture and non-agricultural development uses in proximity to urban areas

Address infrastructure investment in support of/with minimal impact on agricultural production

Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair “Manage” – no, we don’t manage

Consider if land use conflicts in terms of noise, dust, odour,

transportation require regional policy in addition to provincial policy “dust” – really? Regional dust?

Ed Gibbons, Edmonton This could be accomplished by development of general policies on appropriate transitions between rural and urban areas that would take into account the potential for future expansion.



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Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Not clear what this is getting at… what’s the point? Don’t agree with CRB managing….

3. Address pressures for non-agricultural development in rural areas on prime agricultural lands [e.g., new agricultural acreage, multi-lot country cluster residential, rural residential, all types of industrial] and fragmentation of agricultural lands

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County This should be expanded to address pressures from urban development

as well Patricia Lee, Bruderheim No comment Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask Can we be more bold here and instead of addressing the pressures, we

can designate some areas for country cluster residential and be done with that type of development?

David Mackenzie, City of Leduc Policy direction on acreage developments (subdivisions for residential and non-agricultural use,/densification of residential uses on large agricultural parcels)

Explore provisions related to location, scale and impact of multi-lot country cluster residential and rural residential development

Review viability of Multi-lot Country Cluster Residential Understand and address impact of rural industrial development on

agricultural lands Address rural development and fragmentation of agricultural lands Explore impact of densification of non-agricultural acreage

developments on infrastructure requirements/commuting


Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair Delete “in rural areas”. What about infill for acreages. Ed Gibbons, Edmonton Fragmentation of agricultural lands needs to be discouraged, particularly

in the urban shadow. Country residential, in particular, should not be encouraged through the GPU.

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Related to #1

4. Promote growth of the region’s agricultural sector, including food production and processing, as a key regional economic driver

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County Agriculture and agri-food appears to be a key economic opportunity for the

region moving forward. This should be recognized through the long-term protection of agricultural land, and fostering agri-business development clusters.

Patricia Lee, Bruderheim No comment Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask No comment David Mackenzie, City of Leduc Support long-term agricultural sector (for example: food production and

processing) Foster viable agricultural operations – plan and coordinate

infrastructure required for production, processing, distribution, value-added production activities

Recognize agriculture/local food production and processing as a key



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economic driver and contributor to the region’s economy

Agreed in principle, as agriculture is still a very important sector in Alberta and to our region. Seek direct input from rural communities/stakeholders, including agricultural producers.

Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair No comment Ed Gibbons, Edmonton Will need to be careful that promoting of the agricultural sector does not

have the unintended consequence of negatively impacting other key economic drivers.

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Agriculture is important to future prosperity of region and should be supported to extent possible.

5. Plan and coordinate infrastructure to support and enhance the agricultural sector

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County The meaning of this statement is unclear. One example of infrastructure

that supports and enhances the agricultural sector is the Food Processing Development Centre in Leduc. Establishing agri-business clusters in proximity to this piece of infrastructure while protecting agricultural lands would be an example of how to plan and coordinate infrastructure to support and enhance the agricultural sector.

Patricia Lee, Bruderheim No comment Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask No comment David Mackenzie, City of Leduc Address infrastructure needs to support agricultural sector growth:

food production, processing, distribution, logistics, warehousing etc. Recognize the roles and contributions of rural and urban communities

in providing this chain of infrastructure to support agriculture Coordinate regional-scale marketing and promotion of the agricultural

sector

Agreed in principle. Supporting and enhancing the agricultural sector is important for regional food security and our economy. It also promotes our economic and cultural heritage. Seek direct input from rural communities/stakeholders, including agricultural producers.

Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair No comment Ed Gibbons, Edmonton No comment Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Agree in principle.. but need greater clarity on ‘plan and coordinate’.

6. Define mechanisms, in partnership with the Province of Alberta, to wisely manage agricultural lands

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County Many of the counties in the Capital region have recently developed/are

currently developing agricultural strategies. The mechanisms defined in partnership with the Provincial Government should build on the work being completed through these initiatives. The phrase “wisely manage agricultural lands” is ambiguous and should be clearly defined.

Patricia Lee, Bruderheim No comment Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask No comment David Mackenzie, City of Leduc Ensure collaboration and coordination with the Province



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Demonstrate leadership at the regional level and advocate on behalf of the region at the provincial level

This may be a viable strategy to explore. However, more detail is required and our rural partners need to be included in discussions.

Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair “manage” – help? Ed Gibbons, Edmonton The Province is a key partner on this issue and they need to have a

greater presence in this discussion if the Growth Plan is going to have a substantial impact on protection of agricultural lands and growing the industries of food production.

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Yes… of course there is a need to work closely with the province… Same in all areas as appropriate.. not sure the CRB is responsible to ‘manage’ agriculture lands.

Doesn’t address farm economic development; processing of beef, pork, grains, etc. - Crouse

Ensure effective regional mobility. Recognizing the link between efficient movement of people and goods and regional prosperity, we will work towards an (improving our – Crouse) integrated multi-modal regional transportation system. Policy Area: Transit & Mobility


An efficient, cost-effective and integrated regional transportation network to support (economic and social - Katchur) growth and connect the region

Coordination of land use and transportation networks to support the efficient movement of people, goods and services through the region and beyond

A mode shift towards transit, active transportation and shared auto use at levels that recognize the urban and rural contexts within the region


This section appears written strictly for big urban context - Crouse

1. Encourage a mode shift to transit, high-occupancy vehicles and active transportation options appropriate to the scale of the community

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County intermunicipal transit should also be prioritized (eg. HOV lanes on

commuter routes) Patricia Lee, Bruderheim No comment Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask No comment David Mackenzie, City of Leduc Need to move away from auto-oriented transportation

Link to liveable communities, economic competitiveness and environment

Integrate land use and transit/transportation to promote transit use and active transportation

Focus on alleviating traffic congestion by improving non-automobile



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options Explore opportunities for active transportation/trails at regional scale Relate the cost of transit to roadway infrastructure investment

This is an important strategy, particularly in relation to knowledge-based employment areas (e.g. Downtown Edmonton). Also, we recommend discussing dedicated rapid bus/HOV lanes on major corridors as a cost-effective way to reduce commuter congestion. However, we must not ignore that the Capital region is also largely an industrial/agriculture-based economy requiring the efficient movement of both people and goods. These employment areas require efficient transportation systems for day-to-day employment and economic activities, not only commuting. Therefore, ensuring a high level of connectivity for all types of vehicles (both conventional and alternative) is necessary for a sustainable economy.

Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair Add “and location of people.” Ed Gibbons, Edmonton ● Mode shift towards transit is the most likely alternative that will provide

options for regional commuters, as travel distances are generally longer than what would be possible by cycling or walking ● Park and ride locations that are regionally planned and strategically located are essential to promote mode shift. ● Development of complete communities with fully developed local cycling and walking infrastructure will allow mode shift for more local trips, such as shopping and trips to school ● Support of main streets in urban and rural areas supports walking and biking in the right context. ● The first prerequisite for mode shift is a basic level of infrastructure for the alternate modes, which for the regional active transportation network will require accommodation of crossing major highway barriers, such as Anthony Henday Drive.

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Thruout this subject we must consider and keep in mind that this region is still strong in agriculture.

2. Coordinate land use and transportation to support the efficient and safe movement of people, goods and services

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County Goods movement routes are integral to the economic health of the region.

Emphasis needs to be placed on the protection of existing goods movement corridors and the strategic/efficient expansion of this network

Patricia Lee, Bruderheim No comment Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask No comment David Mackenzie, City of Leduc Focus on goods movement and full range of modes – rail, air, road

The movement of goods through well connected high-volume rail/air/road transportation systems is vital to our region’s economy. We look forward to more detail and discussion.

Improve connections and movement within Capital Region to other regions

Create better integration of land use and transportation at the



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community scale Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair Replace “the” with “more” Ed Gibbons, Edmonton ● Joint land use planning initiatives in the region would help ensure that

appropriate land uses are clustered around major infrastructure. ● Transportation-related expenses are recognized as adding significantly to Affordable Housing need of lower-income households, and therefore public policy should strive to provide Affordable Housing in areas in proximity to public transit.

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Is this that different than 1?

3. Develop and maintain municipal and inter-municipal transit systems to create an integrated and seamless inter-municipal transit network

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County Transit and intermunicipal transit systems should be supported as realistic

alternatives to single occupancy vehicles Patricia Lee, Bruderheim No comment Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask No comment David Mackenzie, City of Leduc Integrate systems to improve transit connections across the region

Examine opportunities to create interconnections between municipal transit systems

Improve transit options to Core from outlining areas and within and across region

Yes. These are important principles that should be discussed in further detail while developing the CRBGP.

Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair At beginning add “Further’ Ed Gibbons, Edmonton ● Regional transit will require close collaboration between the current

providing agencies in order to provide an effective and efficient service for their respective areas and/or a new delivery model ● A common electronic fare platform that allows transferring between agencies will aid to create a sense of seamless regional travel and avoid confusion for travelers that currently exists with various available fare products ● Joint development of service plans, especially related to key intercity routes or transfers, is important to provide a service that is integrated and avoids excessive service overlap between agencies

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Is this thruout the region? Maybe should have some qualification. Does this have to be ‘transit’ or could it be broader to note ‘public transportation’ …. Depends in definition of ‘transit’…

4. Establish transit funding priorities and a long-term investment strategy with regional and provincial alignment

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County No additional comment Patricia Lee, Bruderheim No comment Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask No comment David Mackenzie, City of Leduc No comment Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair At beginning add “Better”



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Ed Gibbons, Edmonton Transit capital funding for expansion and renewal will require additional support from the provincial government and other municipalities in order to build out a full regional system

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Ok but what does transit mean? Should be broad in definition… 5. Explore long-term potential for regional commuter rail service

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County No additional comment Patricia Lee, Bruderheim Tracks utilized for both people and products Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask No comment David Mackenzie, City of Leduc No comment Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair No comment Ed Gibbons, Edmonton In the longer term there will be limits to how far LRT can provide practical

service and it would be beneficial to explore other regional transit options, including bus rapid transit (BRT) and commuter rail service

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Agree

6. Movement of people with special needs. - Crouse

• HOV • rural needs • village needs • park & ride needs • carpooling • shoulders - Crouse Recognize and celebrate the diversity of communities and promote an excellent quality of life across the region. In planning for growth, we will recognize and respond to the different contexts and scales of communities and provide a variety of housing choice with easy access to transportation, employment, parks and open spaces, and community and cultural amenities. Policy Area: Communities & Housing Choice


(“More” – Crouse) Complete communities to meet people’s needs for daily living at all ages and provide convenient access to a mix of jobs, local services, community infrastructure and multi-modal transportation choices, appropriate to the scale of the community (this says we have none of this – Crouse)

(“More” – Crouse) Sustainable and resilient communities across the region

A region of (“More” – Crouse) inclusive communities that is supportive of seniors and vulnerable members of the population

A (“higher” – Crouse) diversity of affordable housing options to meet evolving regional demographics and needs to accommodate the projected growth to 2044



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(“Improve” – Crouse) Housing options in proximity to services, employment and transit serviced areas, with multi-modal mobility choices to major employment areas


This section appears written strictly for urban context. It is written as a city writer. - Crouse

1. Plan communities to respond to changing demographics over the next 30 years

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County No additional comment Patricia Lee, Bruderheim No comment Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask No comment David Mackenzie, City of Leduc Plan for changing demographics and life cycle of the population over

the next 30 years Identify and define areas for mixed-use development and higher

density forms of housing linked to transit and active transportation routes

Promote housing options in proximity or with transportation choice to employment areas

Consider housing options for aboriginal communities, the vulnerable and seniors.

Yes. Shifts in age, family structure, ethnicity and tenure affect how and where we live. It is important to examine current and future demographic trends, and to plan for long-term demographic changes in the coming 30 years. Examine transitional housing for non-permanent labour force

Examining transitional housing for non-permanent labor force may be beneficial, but should be considered carefully within the context of creating livable, integrated and complete communities.

Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair ? Ed Gibbons, Edmonton ● Consideration needs to be given to the changing needs in demographic

groups, not just the demographics themselves (i.e. more active seniors; tendency for young adults to prefer transit; impacts of new technology on the needs of different age groups) ● Metro Edmonton accommodates a significant population of lower and fixed-income households who are continuously challenged with high and rising housing costs. The region will soon have Canada’s largest urban aboriginal population (visible minorities as well will rise from one-fifth of the population to one-third) – many with large families and also an older existing population.

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain If mentioning specific groups, then should mention lower income also… transition housing for non-permanent labour force may be a permanent issue for some rather than just transitional.



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2. Provide a range of housing options throughout the region in a form appropriate to the scale and context of each community

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County Densification will require a change in the composition of housing forms

across the region. Targets should be set to accelerate a shift away from the predominance of single family dwellings.

Patricia Lee, Bruderheim No comment Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask No comment David Mackenzie, City of Leduc Support the sustainability and resiliency of older urban communities

through redevelopment and renewal. Yes, where appropriate to the scale and context of each community.

Promote multi-family housing with access to services and amenities

rather than clustering all multi-family and non-market housing within the Core

Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair Provide a “wider” range… Ed Gibbons, Edmonton Affordable Housing is a general category of specific housing types,

including Supportive Housing, Supported Housing, Social Housing and Independent-Living Affordable Housing. All Affordable Housing is provided through government subsidies on a rental or ownership basis at below market rates for long-term occupancy by less than median income households. While such needs exist in all sub-regions, Affordable Housing options are currently not located in all areas, resulting in sub-regional housing need and supply imbalances.

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Not sure what the ‘scale and context’ of each community might be…

3. Recognize the distinct character of each community in the region while promoting diversity of amenities, services and housing within all communities

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County No additional comment Patricia Lee, Bruderheim Quite often smaller communities need to realize the services they are not

able to offer, but a neighbouring community can Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask No comment David Mackenzie, City of Leduc No comment Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair No comment Ed Gibbons, Edmonton It’s important that the tiers specify what diversity means in the Metro

Core vs. Rural and care will be needed to achieve this while recognizing the distinct character of each community in the region. Diversity of housing within all communities should not be interpreted narrowly to each community having a range of housing built-forms (e.g. singles, row, apartment) but there should be consideration extended on whether each community could also have a range of Affordable Housing types that are accessible to area households in housing need to enable them to remain in their communities of choice and not be forced to leave due to the lack of area nonmarket housing options.

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Must recognize that the diversity will be limited in some communities… complete communities will be different depending on tier/size…



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4. Encourage transit-supported higher density residential growth through the renewal and intensification of existing communities and development of compact greenfield neighbourhoods

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County Greenfield development should be located to take advantage of existing

infrastructure and in areas of lower agricultural potential. There needs to be clear policy that prioritizes renewal and intensification of development to maximize the region’s use of existing infrastructure over Greenfield development.

Patricia Lee, Bruderheim No comment Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask No comment David Mackenzie, City of Leduc Focus on redevelopment opportunities and neighbourhood renewal

and reinvestment Identify intensification targets, appropriate to the scale and context of

communities Encouraging range of housing types and forms of development and

redevelopment Consider live-work opportunities and creating high-density housing

closer to employment clusters

As long as we are creating complete, livable, and connected neighborhoods supported by appropriate amenities.

Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair “transit-supported” – not for villages Ed Gibbons, Edmonton Density targets (greenfield/infill/non-residential) should reflect the

availability of transit; however, this should not be seen as a pass for communities that do not have transit to sprawl at low density.

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain ‘Transit supported’ has a limitation and likely not possible for all…

5. Address implications of rural residential and country residential development and the level of service required to support the residential forms in a metropolitan area context

Member Comment Clay Stumph, Leduc County The intent of this item is unclear. Collaborative intermunicipal planning

should be the key mechanism for mitigating near-neighbour impacts Patricia Lee, Bruderheim No comment Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask Why is this even here? I don’t see the applicability and why we should be

supporting this form of development. David Mackenzie, City of Leduc Consider country residential development and alternate housing forms

in rural areas Review feasibility of country residential redevelopment and reconsider

CCRA policy and criteria through feasibility lens Provide clear direction on residential development in rural areas

This is an important but complex issue that will require further discussion with our rural partners, especially in the longer-term context.

Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair No comment Ed Gibbons, Edmonton ● Country residential should to be minimized. It is the least efficient

development form in the region from a land use, transportation and servicing perspective. Some allowance needs to be made to permit these uses where they already exist or where plans already exist, but CR should be restricted far more than the current Growth Plan allows. ● Rural residential and hamlets need to be addressed far better in the



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policy. There should be protection for existing communities, without artificially propping them up if their continued existence is not feasible.

Dwight Ganske, Stony Plain Not sure what this is saying. Needs clarification.

People – Crouse Overall Comments I really find this written by city people living in cities, planning cities. Not balanced enough recognizing the diversity we have in communities in CRB – Crouse


Growth Plan Update


1

Committee: Housing


CRB Committee Consultation Housing Committee

November 27, 2015






lsaskiw_CAP

Typewritten Text

Item 6b

lsaskiw_CAP

Typewritten Text

lsaskiw_CAP

Typewritten Text

Growth Plan Update Housing Committee Consultation

2



Seems like a big urban context - Crouse

1

When reviewing each of the priority issues and supporting statements ask yourself the following: Is the supporting statement relevant to the issue? Does the supporting statement address the substance of the issue? Is further clarification of the supporting statement required? What other related issues should be addressed?

Sample responses are provided below.


Objectives

Priority Issue

Committee Input



3



Thriving natural living systems and their environmental assets, including healthy land base and watershed, abundant wildlife, clean air and water


A balance that supports a healthy environment, agriculture and recreational uses - Smith


Don’t farms and ranches do this too - Crouse

An economically strong agriculture base – Crouse


1. Value, protect and enhance natural ecosystems including regionally significant natural areas and their regional connectivity - Smith

Member Comment Dwight Ganske, Parkland Sub-Region

No additional comments

Stew Hennig, Strathcona/Fort Saskatchewan Sub-Region

No comment

Ed Gibbons, Edmonton Sub-Region

No comment

Dan Warawa, Lamont Sub-Region

No comment

Ralph van Assen, Leduc Sub-Region

No comment

Mel Smith, Sturgeon Sub-Region St. Albert, Sturgeon Sub-Region Transportation should be included in the focus on regional employment

clusters. Direction on future employment lands – this statement is vague, and does not include any purposeful intention.

City of Leduc, Leduc Sub-Region Reinforce the protection of natural systems in relation to growth and resiliency (ability to adapt to changes in the climate and economy)

Focus on environmental stewardship – a regional understanding, policy approach and means of implementation

Consider cumulative impacts of growth on natural systems




4




We will need more details on this topic before we can comment. Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair No comment



Not sure about reducing energy consumption…. This may be a goal but what we want is most efficient use of energy consumption and limiting gas emissions


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment

Mel Smith, Sturgeon Sub-Region

No comment

St. Albert, Sturgeon Sub-Region

No comment

City of Leduc, Leduc Sub-Region

Explore opportunities to enhance the resiliency of communities and infrastructure networks






Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair No comment



5




Like the word ‘minimize’


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


Integrate and align policies related to natural systems across the region/municipalities

Explore the impacts of planned energy corridors on natural systems Understand the solid waste impacts related to the natural living system Look at energy corridors and resource extraction through sustainability

lens


Prefer protection of region’s watershed into the future without limiting it to 30-50 years


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


Ensure growth protects the region’s watershed for next 30-50 years Confirm sufficient water supply to accommodate the region’s projected

employment and population growth





6





Important to align with provincial and federal policies but that presumes that they will develop and have them for reference in a timely manner


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment

Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair No comment Additional Considerations



7



An excellent quality of life to attract and retain workers


Growth and expansion of existing employment clusters to compete on a global scale (why clusters ..why not ‘opportunities’…including clusters - Ganske)

A diverse and resilient regional economy to remain competitive in a changing global economy - Smith




‘recognize and define’


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


Transportation should be included in the focus on regional employment clusters. Direction on future employment lands – this statement is vague, and does not include any purposeful intention. • Focus on regional employment clusters – cluster things together where

they have existing and potential relationships, leverage assets and infrastructure, transportation and related economic activities

• Provide direction on any future employment lands – how will this relate to St. Albert’s employment lands?


Grow and distinguish existing employment areas and regional economic drivers

A lot of importance seems is being placed on existing employment areas, which is important for reducing unnecessary sprawl and reducing incompatible uses. However, let’s not forget about the importance of fostering new and emerging markets and employment clusters. In order for future diversification of the economy to be sustained, new lands to grow new sectors should be understood and identified as well, especially areas that are contiguous to existing employment clusters and regional



8

infrastructure (e.g. supporting new and emerging “Aerotropolis” clusters around the Edmonton International Airport).






2. Plan for a full range of employment from heavy industrial to office and institutional and government uses in the region - Smith


Ok to note but what responsibility does CRB have for this?


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment



Add business districts to statement #2 • Recognize employment areas and other concentrations of employees

such as in downtowns and business districts.


Provide direction on managing job growth in a range of employment types: heavy to light industrial, commercial, major retail, office



Agreed. But let’s remember that there are numerous important employment nodes aside from downtown areas. For example, supporting a variety industrial employment areas is equally important (both inside and outside of the City of Edmonton) will be critical to the region’s economic



9

sustainability..





Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair What about ag? 3. Plan and coordinate infrastructure to foster and support employment clusters and economic

competitiveness


Not sure about specific emphasis on clusters… seems limiting ….what about new markets and opportunities


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


Focus on goods and people movement in and out of the region








10

Our understanding that this would be to obtain the necessary buy-in from the Province for the updated CRGP. If that is not the case, then we request further clarification and discussion. Set servicing and intensification standards



To a point. However, it is also important to understand that markets will evolve and new clusters will arise. We want to promote innovation. Employment clusters are very subtle entities requiring a diverse array of upstream and downstream inputs and outputs. The CRGP should remain high level guide to planning our region and be careful of being overly prescriptive at the local level, so that employment areas are able to evolve over time.


4. Promote liveability (spelling – Crouse) and plan for the needs of a changing population and workforce


Clarify what is meant by liveability….and also what is meant by ‘changing or evolving’.. Is this where we note regional transportation network or is it a priority issue on its own?


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


Regional amenities and housing diversity should be addressed in liveability factors. • Address liveability factors including quality of life, regional amenities,

diversity of housing and transportation to attract and retain workers


Address liveability factors including quality of life, housing and transportation to attract and retain workers

Yes. Retaining and attracting skilled workers is, and will continue to be, a



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major issue to address in order to ensure the region continues to be competitive and can provide the supply of skilled labour needed to grow our economy. An example would be supporting the expansion of post-secondary campuses through satellite campuses in the region.

It is important to protect and promote a diverse range of lifestyle options to ensure a diverse, healthy and competitive region.


Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair

5. Recognize that diversification of energy and agriculture (Crouse) sector is necessary to respond to future economic opportunities - Smith


This could apply to other sectors as well


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment



No comment


No comment

Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair 6. Position the region to leverage future economic drivers, emerging markets and potential growth

sectors


Yes, this applies to the various sectors and emerging markets…. It seems that many comments in the consultation are related and perhaps redundant.. and this is an example of that..


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment



12


No comment


No comment


Aerotropolis (airport integrated development) is a great example of promoting regional economic diversification and innovation in the short and long-term future. It is also a good example of how a percentage of knowledge-based office jobs will emerge, a large portion will continue to be in high value manufacturing and distribution jobs.




Ensure that we include other emerging markets that align with the realities of our region’s economy (i.e. not only the knowledge-based professions). We suggest adding Advanced Manufacturing, Agri-Business, Aerospace & Aviation, and Transportation/Logistics & Distribution to this list. Promote innovation in oil and gas sector (for example: oil and gas

recycling etc.)





Not sure what is meant by address….maybe ‘identify’ might be more appropriate…


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


Share non-residential wealth

City of Leduc, Leduc Sub- Create win-wins through regional joint venture model



13

Region Address funding models to allow for success – revenue sharing as model

Share non-residential wealth Link employment clusters to the potential for ‘wealth sharing’



Additional Considerations



14

Achieve compact growth (no strive to increase - Crouse) that optimizes infrastructure investment. We will make the most efficient use of our infrastructure investments by prioritizing growth where infrastructure exists and optimizing use of new and planned infrastructure.



A clear definition of where and how to grow over the next 30 years (50 years – St. Albert) to guide both residential and job growth



An excellent quality of life within the region, with access to amenities and services (– Smith) and affordable housing – Crouse


A growth strategy to minimize the cumulative impacts on the environment and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and more farmland more productive - Crouse.

Ganske - Like the word ‘minimize’




Not sure that compact is appropriate for all of the regional growth..unless ‘compact’ has different definition for different areas


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


Statement should be reworded to be clearer in intention: Increase residential density targets in an consistent manner and apply in a more defined manner, and define how targets are applied, measured and monitored


Apply density targets to both employment and residential growth.

The CRBGP’s residential density targets has created a number of major issues since the original growth plan was released. Residential density targets should be reviewed and tested carefully with communities



15

throughout the region.

PGAs and residential density targets need to be reviewed. It will be advantageous to explore a minimum, but no ceiling for urbanized areas in order to promote sustainability, reduce sprawl and avoid homogeneity. When reviewing residential density targets, each municipality’s unique typology should be considered. A principle of proportional increases could be considered (e.g. achieving a certain percentage above and beyond existing densities, with consideration for each municipality’s unique context).






This is unclear……. Not sure of the point…..maybe better to separate..


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


Consider mixed use residential and business centres as places to promote compact growth


More details will be required to understand the implications, especially for smaller centers and industrial/business park areas.





16





Seems to reinforce infill.but says it in a different way


No comment


Providing Affordable and Infill Housing in complex environments such as already built-up (e.g. established) neighbourhoods requires a transparent, accountable and inclusive public engagement processes that build relationships, trust and credibility with organizations, stakeholders and citizens


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


Redevelopment is a priority and important to optimize existing infrastructure and limit development footprint

Need for explicit support for redevelopment at regional level given opposition at community-level





Seems ok but not sure of the implications..


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment

Mel Smith, Sturgeon Sub- No comment



17

Region St. Albert, Sturgeon Sub-Region

No comment


Create a mechanism to coordinate and review infrastructure plans at regional level


We disagree with developing such a mechanism. The CRBGP should continue to be a high-level guiding document to help guide regional growth. While it can be used to influence provincial decisions around infrastructure, a new definitive approval mechanism at this level would be inappropriate and inefficient for the CRBGP, and would take




Examples of regionally significant projects would provide clarity of intent.


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment

Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair No comment 6. Harmonize regionally significant infrastructure policies and standards across the region


Not sure of what harmonize would look like.. maybe minimum standards would be better


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment



18


No comment


The race to the bottom for development – statement is unclear and is subject to interpretation.


Encourage harmonization – yes. But to predetermine through a new REF decision making process is inappropriate at the CRB level.





19





Direction on where and when agricultural lands can develop for non-agricultural uses and rural residential development

A strategy that minimizes fragmentation of prime agricultural lands and reduces conflicts between adjacent non-agricultural and agricultural uses - Smith




Some prime agriculture land likely will be used for development related growth so key is minimizing this occurrence… not sure what ‘sustain’ means.


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


No comment


Address staging of future growth, policy approach to respond to pressure on the land relative to its tier

Identify future land requirements for residential, commercial, industrial uses as relates to 30 year planning horizon

Major impact of land speculation on agricultural viability - need to provide certainty in terms of agricultural producers return on investment and sustaining agricultural uses in the region for the future



Agreed in principle with exploring these important yet sensitive policy



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areas/strategies, while being inclusive and sensitive to the input of our rural members’ and agricultural producers.


2. Manage near neighbour impacts on agriculture operations - Smith


Not clear what this is getting at…. What’s the point? Don’t agree with CRB managing….


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Dwight Ganske, Parkland Sub-Region

Related to #1.


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Policy direction on acreage developments (subdivisions for residential and non-agricultural use,/densification of residential uses on large agricultural parcels)


Review viability of Multi-lot Country Cluster Residential Understand and address impact of rural industrial development on

agricultural lands Address rural development and fragmentation of agricultural lands Explore impact of densification of non-agricultural acreage

developments on infrastructure requirements/commuting





Agriculture is important to future prosperity of region and should be supported to extent possible


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Last statement: should recognize that regional food security is another key driver of local food production.


Support long-term agricultural sector (for example: food production and processing)



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Foster viable agricultural operations – plan and coordinate infrastructure required for production, processing, distribution, value-added production activities

Recognize agriculture/local food production and processing as a key economic driver and contributor to the region’s economy





Agree in principle… but need greater clarity on ‘plan and coordinate’


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Address infrastructure needs to support agricultural sector growth: food production, processing, distribution, logistics, warehousing etc.

Recognize the roles and contributions of rural and urban communities in providing this chain of infrastructure to support agriculture

Coordinate regional-scale marketing and promotion of the agricultural sector



6. Define mechanisms, in partnership with the Province of Alberta, to wisely help - Crouse manage agricultural lands


Yes… of course there is a need to work closely with the province…. Same in all areas as appropriate …not sure the CRB is responsible to ‘manage’ agriculture lands.


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Ed Gibbons, Edmonton Sub- No comment



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Region Dan Warawa, Lamont Sub-Region

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Ensure collaboration and coordination with the Province Demonstrate leadership at the regional level and advocate on behalf of

the region at the provincial level





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Ensure effective regional mobility. Recognizing the link between efficient movement of people and goods and regional prosperity, we will work towards an (improving our – St. Albert) integrated multi-modal regional transportation system. Policy Area: Transit & Mobility Transportation, Transit and Mobility – Crouse


An efficient, cost-effective and integrated regional transportation network to support growth and connect the region

Coordination of land use and transportation networks to support the efficient movement of people, goods and services through the region and beyond.

A mode shift towards transit (not for Wabamun, or Redwater or Farmer a, b, c. This seems written for large urban and not region – Crouse), active transportation and shared auto use at levels that recognize the urban and rural contexts within the region




Throughout this subject we must consider and keep in mind that this region is still strong in agriculture


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Need to move away from auto-oriented transportation Link to liveable communities, economic competitiveness and

environment Integrate land use and transit/transportation to promote transit use and

active transportation Focus on alleviating traffic congestion by improving non-automobile

options Explore opportunities for active transportation/trails at regional scale Relate the cost of transit to roadway infrastructure investment

This is an important strategy, particularly in relation to knowledge-based employment areas (e.g. Downtown Edmonton). Also, we recommend discussing dedicated rapid bus/HOV lanes on major corridors as a cost-effective way to reduce commuter congestion.



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However, we must not ignore that the Capital region is also largely an industrial/agriculture-based economy requiring the efficient movement of both people and goods. These employment areas require efficient transportation systems for day-to-day employment and economic activities, not only commuting. Therefore, ensuring a high level of connectivity for all types of vehicles (both conventional and alternative) is necessary for a sustainable economy.




Is this that different than 1?


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Focus on goods movement and full range of modes – rail, air, road



Create better integration of land use and transportation at the community scale


3. Develop and maintain municipal and inter-municipal transit (- Crouse) systems to create an integrated and seamless inter-municipal transit network


Is this throughout the region? Maybe should have some qualification. Does this have to be ‘transit’ or could it be broader to note ‘public transportation’….depends in definition of ‘transit’…


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Integrate systems to improve transit connections across the region Examine opportunities to create interconnections between municipal

transit systems Improve transit options to Core from outlining areas and within and

across region





Ok… but what does ‘transit’ mean? Should be broad in definition….…


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Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair No comment 5. Explore long-term potential for regional commuter rail service - Crouse


agree


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In the longer term there will be limits to how far LRT can provide practical service and it would be beneficial to explore other regional transit options, including bus rapid transit (BRT) and commuter rail service

Dan Warawa, Lamont Sub- No comment



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Region Ralph van Assen, Leduc Sub-Region

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Additional considerations



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Recognize and celebrate the diversity of communities and promote an excellent quality of life across the region. In planning for growth, we will recognize and respond to the different contexts and scales of communities and provide a variety of housing choice with easy access to transportation, employment, parks and open spaces, and community and cultural amenities. Policy Area: Communities & Housing Choice


Complete integrated communities to meet people’s needs and activities for daily living at all stages of life ages and provide convenient access to a mix of jobs, local services and multi-modal transportation choices, appropriate to the scale of the community – St. Albert

Sustainable and resilient communities across the region - Smith

A region of inclusive communities that provide an appropriate mix of housing for is supportive of (St. Albert) seniors and vulnerable members of the population - Smith

A diversity of affordable housing options in various tenure types and price ranges to meet evolving regional demographics, incomes and household types and needs to accommodate the projected growth to 2044 – St. Albert

Housing options located in proximity to services, employment and transit serviced areas, with multi-modal mobility choices to major employment areas – St. Albert

ADD: Communities where residents can find appropriate housing choices throughout all stages of life – St. Albert




If mentioning specific groups, then should mention lower income also ..transition housing for non-permanent labour force may be a permanent issue for some rather than just transitional


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Priority issues include advocacy for funding. Suggested wording changes:

• Promote housing options in proximity to or with transportation choices close to employment areas

• Consider housing options and funding to support for aboriginal communities, the vulnerable and seniors



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• Examine transitional housing for non-permanent labour force


Plan for changing demographics and life cycle of the population over the next 30 years

Identify and define areas for mixed-use development and higher density forms of housing linked to transit and active transportation routes



Yes. Shifts in age, family structure, ethnicity and tenure affect how and where we live. It is important to examine current and future demographic trends, and to plan for long-term demographic changes in the coming 30 years. Examine transitional housing for non-permanent labour force





Not sure what the ‘scale and context’ of each community might be….


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Minor wording changes suggested:

• Promote multi-family housing choices with access to services and amenities rather than clustering all multi-family and nonmarket housing within the Capital Region Core


Support the sustainability and resiliency of older urban communities through redevelopment and renewal.

Yes, where appropriate to the scale and context of each community.

Promote multi-family housing with access to services and amenities rather



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than clustering all multi-family and non-market housing within the Core Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair No comment

3. Recognize the distinct character of each community in the region while promoting diversity of amenities, services and housing within all communities - Smith


Must recognize that the diversity will be limited in some communities… complete communities will be different depending on tier/size…


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‘Transit-supported’ has a limitation and likely not possible for all..


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Focus on redevelopment opportunities and neighbourhood renewal and reinvestment

Identify intensification targets, appropriate to the scale and context of communities

Encouraging range of housing types and forms of development and redevelopment

Consider live-work opportunities and creating high-density housing



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closer to employment clusters





Not sure what this is saying. Needs clarification..


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Consider country residential development and alternate housing forms in rural areas

Review feasibility of country residential redevelopment and reconsider CCRA policy and criteria through feasibility lens

Provide clear direction on residential development in rural areas




Ganske In general, felt there was a fair amount of redundancy and it could be streamlined. Also the scope of all elements/projects outlining all the potential responsibilities of the CRB and related work effort is overwhelming. Feel it needs to be edited to a manageable and reasonable scope. CRB should focus on those elements that are truly and clearly within the jurisdiction of CRB. Crouse What about villages?

- trailer counts - duplexes



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- farm yards?

Briefing notes comments St. Albert

• Focus on regional employment clusters – cluster things together where they have existing and potential relationships, leverage assets and infrastructure, transportation and related economic activities

• Provide direction on any future employment lands – how will this relate to St. Albert’s employment lands?


Growth Plan Update


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Committee: Transit


CRB Committee Consultation Transit Committee

November 26, 2015






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Item 6c

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Growth Plan Update Transit Committee Consultation

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When reviewing each of the priority issues and supporting statements ask yourself the following: Is the supporting statement relevant to the issue?

Does the supporting statement address the substance of the issue?

Is further clarification of the supporting statement required?

What other related issues should be addressed? Sample responses are provided below.


Objectives

Priority Issue

Committee Input



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1. Value, protect and enhance natural ecosystems including regionally significant natural areas and their regional connectivity

Member Comment Brian Botterill, Strathcona County

By conserving regionally significant environmental areas, we also enhance our ability to create linking corridors that can be used for regional pathways and trails. These passive recreational areas are considered a priority (identified within the Strathcona County Trails Strategy).

Susan Evans, Sturgeon County

No comment

Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask

No comment

Dana Smith, City of Leduc

Reinforce the protection of natural systems in relation to growth and resiliency (ability to adapt to changes in the climate and economy)







We will need more details on this topic before we can comment. Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair

No comment



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Michael Walters, Edmonton

The term “value” can be both qualitative and quantitative and this probably warrants some consideration of how to quantify the value of regionally significant areas. This also raised the question of how we evaluated areas where ‘enhancement’ or degradation has taken place.

Wes Brodhead, St. Albert

No additional comment



Numerous sources are predicting that more frequent and severe weather events will occur in the future. This should definitely be a consideration when assessing new development infrastructure standards and asset rehabilitation/replacement philosophies. The concept of a regional adaptation and resiliency strategy is very intriguing and more information on its potential content would be appreciated.


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Not sure how we will “plan” this type of development. Would we be better off using the word “promote” given that its difficult to plan for development that achieves those goals outside of public transit.


Explore opportunities to enhance the resiliency of communities and infrastructure networks







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Implementation of policy on this issue will be challenging without any incentives or penalties. This needs to be tied in to the efficient use of land very consciously.


Recognize in the growth plan update, that increased use of public transit is one element in addressing the need to reduce GHG and reduce energy consumption.



Urban development and agricultural practices affect the watershed in ways we still do not fully understand. Long term monitoring for water quality trends and programs that support positive agricultural and urban/rural landscape practices may prevent further degradation and provide stakeholder connection between land practices and water management in



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Address the lack of capacity (eg. composting sites) in the region to deal with waste generated in an environmentally friendly manner.


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Integrate and align policies related to natural systems across the region/municipalities Explore the impacts of planned energy corridors on natural systems Understand the solid waste impacts related to the natural living system Look at energy corridors and resource extraction through sustainability lens



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Returning to the idea of quantitative value, balancing these will be difficult. To do so will require prioritization between the environment and growth/economic development. If areas

the Capital Region. Susan Evans, Sturgeon County

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Add in “while promoting access for education and recreation opportunities.”


Ensure growth protects the region’s watershed for next 30-50 years Confirm sufficient water supply to accommodate the region’s projected employment

and population growth



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The NSR watershed is a large area the extent of which is much larger than the Capital Region. Activities within the watershed have an impact on water quality and quantity – important considerations when considering the growth of agriculture, industry, and area population. Protection and conservation of the watershed is a multi-jurisdictional responsibility and it is important for the CRB to recognize their supportive role. Recognizing/integrating the many passive and active, structured and unstructured recreational opportunities throughout the watershed contributes to area livability. In addition to “protect and conserve” the CRB may wish to consider advocacy for municipalities for certain kinds of issues [for example to be wetland conservation mitigation agents, encourage municipal use of crown water bodies as part of the natural drainage system]. Advocacy may also include the establishment of a series of continuous green- and blueways throughout the watershed.


Same as above although public transit use one would argue is not specifically relevant to this topic.



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are designated as important natural features, there have to be corresponding trade-offs in the resource extraction and energy corridors, not to mention development in general.


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● Depending on provincial and federal expectations (policies, standards, regulations), when local needs are taken into consideration it may be appropriate in certain instances for provincial and federal expectations to be considered minimum requirements – “align with” but consider the potential to exceed. ● The policy area includes “a strategy to anticipate and address climate change” but it is not specifically referenced in the “issues” section. – “anticipating and mitigating the impacts of climate change on natural systems” might be the issue.


The plan should reflect the need for other orders of governance to have specific public transit policy thereby ensuring the impact of public transit use on reducing the environmental impact of transportation systems.

Additional Considerations Crouse – Greenhouse gases = Transit – needs to be mentioned.



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An excellent quality of life to attract and retain workers and live - Crouse



A diverse and resilient regional economy to remain competitive in a changing global economy




The focus on having employment located in clusters may create an efficient transportation system due to high peak hour and peak direction traffic. This would be inconsistent with mixed-use development included in the integration of land use and infrastructure policy.


Look to improved mobility of people, goods, & services with the view to the future. Urban & rural context.


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Grow and distinguish existing employment areas and regional economic drivers

A lot of importance seems is being placed on existing employment areas, which is important for reducing unnecessary sprawl and reducing incompatible uses. However, let’s not forget about the importance of fostering new and emerging markets and employment clusters. In order for future diversification of the economy to be sustained, new lands to grow new sectors should be understood and identified as well, especially areas that are contiguous to existing employment clusters and regional infrastructure (e.g. supporting new and emerging “Aerotropolis” clusters around the Edmonton International Airport).





No comment


● Existing employment clusters are important, but there needs to be thought put into where the future employment clusters will be located, and how that will be addressed from an economic development, transportation and land use perspective in the plan.



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● Infrastructure decisions and energy corridor selection needs to consider the existing and future location for employment areas.


The Growth Plan should reflect the need for public transit to service employment clusters within the region. Transit services ensure labour mobility.

2. Plan for a full range of employment from heavy industrial to office and institutional and government uses in the region


•Will more employment options be located in surrounding municipalities to encourage residents to remain in their own community? •Regional transportation can help to move employees between areas, but without diverse employment options located throughout communities, it is difficult to have a successful transit/transportation system.


Highly coordinated policy for mobility – include mobility policy that contributes to quality of life. Fiscal impact analysis – will public transportation systems also move goods and services.


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Provide direction on managing job growth in a range of employment types: heavy to light industrial, commercial, major retail, office



Agreed. But let’s remember that there are numerous important employment nodes aside from downtown areas. For example, supporting a variety industrial employment areas is equally important (both inside and outside of the City of Edmonton) will be critical to the region’s economic sustainability..






No comment


Office, institutional and government uses need to be concentrated in areas where transit is available. Future heavy industrial areas need to consider buffering requirements, transportation routes for goods and energy corridor locations.


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3. Plan and coordinate infrastructure to foster and support employment clusters and economic

competitiveness


•More information is required to better understand this section. Are the 30 – 50 year infrastructure plans only for employment clusters that are regional? Are the 3 – 5 year plans only required if there is an expectation of regional investment? What are the servicing standards that this section refers to? •The idea to plan for infrastructure, energy and utility corridors is highly supported. •Ensure recreation facilities are identified at the appropriate time, and included in regional planning at the same level as traditional ‘hard’ infrastructure to support employment clusters.


Mobility policies needed – connection to all policy areas People – goods – services. Link between urban and rural employment clusters meaning working together seamlessly.


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Focus on goods and people movement in and out of the region






Our understanding that this would be to obtain the necessary buy-in from the Province for the updated CRGP. If that is not the case, then we request further clarification and discussion. Set servicing and intensification standards



To a point. However, it is also important to understand that markets will evolve and new clusters will arise. We want to promote innovation. Employment clusters are very subtle



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entities requiring a diverse array of upstream and downstream inputs and outputs. The CRGP should remain high level guide to planning our region and be careful of being overly prescriptive at the local level, so that employment areas are able to evolve over time.


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Find a mechanism for ranking major regionally required infrastructure in a similar fashion to what is done with transportation by the CRB currently.


Public transportation infrastructure - such as park and ride locations, priority travel corridors etc. - should be highlighted as an employment enabling infrastructure.

4. Promote liveability and plan for the needs of a changing population and workforce


•Consider how the provision of appropriate recreation facilities and amenities contribute to quality of life within the changing population. •Identify how the recreation facility needs of the changing population may be different from that of the existing population, ensure flexibility within the facility planning processes to adapt to future needs. •Developing a regional transportation network that includes active transportation infrastructure, will allow residents in the Capital Region to better access places of work and leisure. •These regional connections should address not only commuters to surrounding municipalities, but recreational participants of linkage systems such as the Trans Canada Trail, the River Valley Alliance Trail and the Biodiversity Trail within the Beaver Hills moraine.


Promote liveability with growth. As people stay in the workforce longer mobility will become more of an issue – connection liveability→services→movement of goods


No comment


Address liveability factors including quality of life, housing and transportation to attract and retain workers

Yes. Retaining and attracting skilled workers is, and will continue to be, a major issue to address in order to ensure the region continues to be competitive and can provide the supply of skilled labour needed to grow our economy. An example would be supporting the expansion of post-secondary campuses through satellite campuses in the region.

It is important to protect and promote a diverse range of lifestyle options to ensure a diverse, healthy and competitive region.


No comment


The interrelationships among markets (housing, labour, health, etc.) mean that supply shortfalls in any component of the overall housing spectrum (i.e. Short-Term Accommodation, Affordable Housing, Market Housing) will have ripple effects across those markets and on other parts of the spectrum. This will in-turn has an impact on the livability of the region and impact the attractiveness of the region to the incoming workforce.


Public transportation services provide for an increased quality of life for all within the region. Those with transportation needs (poor, PWD etc.) as well as the independently mobile.



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Diversification is a good start; but there should also be recognition of all the major employers in the region such as government, health care, and research/education in our post-secondary institutions. The CRB should continue to foster their success, as well as advocate for their continued sustainability to the Provincial/Federal governments.


Public transportation enables labour mobility that enables diversification of the energy sector

6. Position the region to leverage future economic drivers, emerging markets and potential growth

sectors


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Mobility of people, goods & services will play a key role in success. Policy must be flexible & adaptive.


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Aerotropolis (airport integrated development) is a great example of promoting regional economic diversification and innovation in the short and long-term future. It is also a good example of how a percentage of knowledge-based office jobs will emerge, a large portion will continue to be in high value manufacturing and distribution jobs.




Ensure that we include other emerging markets that align with the realities of our region’s economy (i.e. not only the knowledge-based professions). We suggest adding Advanced Manufacturing, Agri-Business, Aerospace & Aviation, and Transportation/Logistics & Distribution to this list.



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Promote innovation in oil and gas sector (for example: oil and gas recycling etc.)



No comment


● As reflected in CRB studies coordinating and positioning the region includes addressing its identity to distinguish it from other ‘capital’ regions. Part of this has started through the development of the Growth Plan vision with the development of the term Edmonton Metro Region. ● We are used to thinking of Affordable Housing as a social and health issue but working to meet affordable housing needs is also smart economic policy. An inadequate supply of Affordable Housing can be a major impediment to business investment and growth, can prematurely ‘age’ low-density communities, and can influence immigrants’ choices of where to locate. New Affordable Housing construction and the rehabilitation of existing Affordable Housing produce many direct and indirect benefits for the local economy. The production and management of such housing supports economic growth and stimulates all aspects of the construction and related industries. Good housing stock increases tax revenues. Beyond this, affordable housing dramatically improves the economic situation of its residents.


Same as above.



•“Share non-residential wealth”? Does this mean industrial taxes will be shared amongst the different municipalities? •Consider potential for sport and recreation facilities within joint venture model.


Other levels of gov’t should be at the table. Fiscal impact analysis should be required for full understanding now & into the future leading to better decision making.


Not sure revenue sharing will go very far but cost sharing for regionally significant infrastructure projects is important.


Create win-wins through regional joint venture model Address funding models to allow for success – revenue sharing as model Share non-residential wealth Link employment clusters to the potential for ‘wealth sharing’



No comment


Exploration of funding models and cost/revenue sharing should be explored through the Growth Plan Update so that the region can continue to push forward towards successful regional outcomes that benefit all. This could also be used as a mechanism to reduce intermunicipal competition and replace it with regional cooperation.

Wes Brodhead, Regional public transit services are best provided within the context of a single operating



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St. Albert entity. The Growth Plan Update should list this as a desired end state.


We need to add in some points about the coordination of infrastructure investments with the economic drivers in Alberta. Economic development should not be thought of separately from infrastructure - Katchur



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A clear definition of where and how to grow over the next 30 years (50 years – Crouse) to guide both residential and job growth






Reduce leapfrog development and the start up of new urban areas in rural districts – Katchur




•When defining criteria for urban, rural and hamlet growth, care should be taken not to be too prescriptive and allow the growth to maintain its own sense of presence/balance and ensure that collaboration can still occur with existing area stakeholders. •Density targets need to be respectful of the market needs in each area rather than blanket expectations. •Why are cities not listed for consideration criteria for future growth? •In order to achieve the CRB’s density targets in the municipalities surrounding Edmonton, transportation systems have to be in place to address traffic related issues, such as Bremner and Colchester (highway constraints). However, without these densities, transit may not be successful.


Mobility policy (urban & rural) considerations. Is it the goal to promote hamlet growth→village→town→city?


Eliminate the potential for country cluster development.


Apply density targets to both employment and residential growth.

The CRBGP’s residential density targets has created a number of major issues since the original growth plan was released. Residential density targets should be reviewed and tested carefully with communities throughout the region.

PGAs and residential density targets need to be reviewed. It will be advantageous to explore a minimum, but no ceiling for urbanized areas in order to promote sustainability, reduce sprawl and avoid homogeneity. When reviewing residential density targets, each municipality’s unique typology should



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be considered. A principle of proportional increases could be considered (e.g. achieving a certain percentage above and beyond existing densities, with consideration for each municipality’s unique context).




Why not city and county


● There should be joint infrastructure planning to ensure individual municipal networks align across boundaries and that there is alignment with a regional transportation infrastructure network that includes all modes of transportation, including active modes. ● Development density requirements need to include more thought around non-residential developments in this update. Compact, efficient development should apply not only to residential development but also to commercial development, and industrial development as appropriate. ● If the CRB can advocate for compact growth by ensuring schools and health care facilities use land more efficiently (i.e. fewer single storey buildings).


Conventional public transit services are most effect and efficient within the dense urban core. Completing the regional LRT system will lead to densification along the service corridors.



•Impacts to the existing infrastructure (especially capacity) must be carefully considered when increasing the density in built-up areas through redevelopment •Coordinating land use and transportation is essential, but the relationship between transit and employment needs to be addressed. •Ensure appropriate dedicated space for both active and passive recreation is provided within mixed use and higher density centres to provide for the increased populations within these areas.


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More details will be required to understand the implications, especially for smaller centers and industrial/business park areas.





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Including infill


● Higher density land uses will require additional infrastructure investment, especially for transportation, so that a variety of trip modes are available, including transit and active modes. Even with the additional infrastructure requirements, these areas would be more efficient than a divergent, low-density area. ● Mixed use town centres will require effective street design in order to accommodate multi-modal travel and should emphasize a variety of modes, as opposed to auto-oriented commercial.


Prospective Transit oriented development nodes should be identified within the GPU.



•It will be important to understand what the expectations are to “optimize” existing infrastructure and how under-utilization will be determined. Is the intent to use the standards of the day it was built, today’s standards or another mechanism to determine their performance (or under-utilization)? Will the process of determination be regional or will municipalities assess the under-utilization with their own criteria / level of service considerations? •Transit access needs to be considered in the redevelopment areas such as sidewalks and pedestrian walkways from local neighborhoods to transit routes and stops. •Incentive programs would help encourage and facilitate redevelopments. •Consider how well the existing parks and recreation infrastructure within an area can meet the needs of any population intensification, and plan for potential additions or adaptations to existing infrastructure as needed.


Consider impact on mobility people, goods, services.


No comment


Redevelopment is a priority and important to optimize existing infrastructure and limit development footprint




No comment


● An area where infrastructure is under-utilized is large parking facilities in order to accommodate auto oriented regional commercial centres. ● Another analysis that could be done is to evaluate current transportation infrastructure utilization and promote growth in areas where the facilities are not being used to capacity. ● Direct growth towards neigbourhoods where schools are underutilized. ● Providing Affordable and Infill Housing in complex environments such as already built-up (e.g. established) neighbourhoods requires a transparent, accountable and inclusive



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public engagement processes that build relationships, trust and credibility with organizations, stakeholders and citizens


Completing the regional LRT system, coupled with designated TOD nodes will lead to in-fill and densification of the urban core.



•Regionally significant infrastructure may not always include crossing municipal borders. The criteria and triggers should consider significant infrastructure that may be within one municipality but have a positive impact on surrounding municipalities (ex. investment in Alberta’s Industrial Heartland). •Provide opportunities for regional funding that will allow municipalities to work together on providing key recreational infrastructure, such as recreational facilities, cultural facilities, and active transportation linkages.


Urban/Rural investment considerations


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● Regional transit, including park and ride facilities, will be a key measure to ensure growth of communities that will require access to the Edmonton central business district for access to employment ● Promoting compact growth around existing and planned transit infrastructure would minimize the overall investment in transit.


Establishing a single regional transit operating entity (commission) will enable funding of the LRT system and regional PNR infrastructure.



•Creating a mechanism to coordinate and review infrastructure plans at a regional level is good practice, however what level of “approval” will be sought, what is the process to give approval and who will be involved in the approval process? This will also require a very good definition of “regionally significant infrastructure”. •Ensure CRB partners are working together to provide recreational infrastructure (recreational facilities, cultural facilities, and active transportation linkages) that best provides for their residents. •Share participation data and trends within the region that will allow municipalities to anticipate future trends in recreation and usage. This collaborative approach will limit overproviding or underproviding of recreational infrastructure and funding.


Urban & rural context

Gale Katchur, No comment



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Ft. Sask Dana Smith, City of Leduc

Create a mechanism to coordinate and review infrastructure plans at regional level Adapt REF process to approve infrastructure with regional significance




Great! Michael Walters, Edmonton

● This analysis should consider a full cost accounting framework that includes the environmental and health costs in addition to financial over the lifecycle of the development. ● Consideration may need to be given in the development of policy around this topic on how regionally significant projects that are funded/executed by the Province could be evaluated by the REF process. ● Instead of looking at infrastructure on a project basis, there could be merit in a REF process around Master Plans (transportation, transit, utilities, etc). It’s been suggested that service commissions (water, sewer) also would not fit under the mandate of the CRB, but coordination of utility master plans may be a way to ensure their plans are coordinated with the Growth Plan.


Establish a single regional transit operating entity.

6. Harmonize regionally significant infrastructure policies and standards across the region


•Municipalities develop minimum standards based on their own historical infrastructure performance, operation/maintenance perspectives, level of service, risk tolerance and economic factors. Caution should be exercised when establishing minimum standards to apply across the region as it is directly related to risk / level of service and may not align with municipal autonomy, strategic plans, priorities or goals. •Ensure the wise management of prime agricultural resources. In the context of metropolitan growth, we will ensure the wise management of agricultural resources to continue a thriving agricultural sector. •Identify specific types of recreation infrastructure that are best provided at a regional vs. municipal level, and create triggers for such infrastructure.


Province at the table Consider Urban/Rural context Mobility Rural density to support infrastructure including mobility


No comment


Encourage harmonization – yes. But to predetermine through a new REF decision making process is inappropriate at the CRB level.


What does Harmonize mean in this context? Standards would stop race to the bottom for development and resolve price equity

issues “stop race to bottom” – change this

Michael Walters, ● Basic level of regional active transportation infrastructure should be established,



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Edmonton including standards for crossing major barriers such as the Anthony Henday Drive or other major highways. ● Caution should be exercised on full harmonization of standards. Having non-harmonized standards gives the option of flexibility to allow for context sensitive designs so that the transportation infrastructure is supportive for the surrounding land uses.


A single transit operating entity will lead to harmonized fare structures, public transit service standards, the integration of specialized transit services within the entire CRB.


Crouse – Park & Rides + LRT = Density. Density builds along LRT lands.

7. Ensure infrastructure investment enables the maximization of economic employment clusters for movement of goods and people. - Katchur

8. Address the implications of the annexation process as it relates to the priority growth nodes to create efficient growth and minimize conflict. - Katchur



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Direction on where and when agricultural lands can develop for non-agricultural uses and rural residential development (What do we mean by “rural residential development”? We have an issue with that statement. Why are we promoting that at all? The word “rural” should be replaced with “urban”. – Katchur)





No comment


No comment


Should this read “Designate areas as “agricultural preservation”. We don’t like this wording as it implies all current ag lands are to be sustained.


Address staging of future growth, policy approach to respond to pressure on the land relative to its tier







No comment


● There needs to be a common understanding of what prime agricultural lands are and how they can be defined and delineated. ● Some policy on this is necessary, but it will likely require that the Province get involved since there will be an inherent conflict between preservation of agricultural lands



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and the ability of landowners to use their land. Wes Brodhead, St. Albert

No comment



No comment


No comment


No comment











No comment


This could be accomplished by development of general policies on appropriate transitions between rural and urban areas that would take into account the potential for future expansion.


Increased public transit use may lead to the reduced need for added regional highway infrastructure thereby reducing land required for roads



No comment


No comment

Gale Katchur, Can we be more bold here and instead of addressing the pressures, we can designate



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Ft. Sask some areas for country cluster residential and be done with that type of development? Dana Smith, City of Leduc

Policy direction on acreage developments (subdivisions for residential and non-agricultural use,/densification of residential uses on large agricultural parcels)


Review viability of Multi-lot Country Cluster Residential Understand and address impact of rural industrial development on agricultural lands Address rural development and fragmentation of agricultural lands Explore impact of densification of non-agricultural acreage developments on

infrastructure requirements/commuting



No comment


Fragmentation of agricultural lands needs to be discouraged, particularly in the urban shadow. Country residential, in particular, should not be encouraged through the GPU.


No comment



No comment


No comment


No comment


Support long-term agricultural sector (for example: food production and processing) Foster viable agricultural operations – plan and coordinate infrastructure required for

production, processing, distribution, value-added production activities Recognize agriculture/local food production and processing as a key economic driver

and contributor to the region’s economy



No comment


Will need to be careful that promoting of the agricultural sector does not have the unintended consequence of negatively impacting other key economic drivers.


No comment


Member Comment Brian Botterill, No comment



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Strathcona County Susan Evans, Sturgeon County

No comment


No comment


Address infrastructure needs to support agricultural sector growth: food production, processing, distribution, logistics, warehousing etc.





No comment


No comment


Public transit services to outlying areas will assist with labour mobility.



No comment


No comment


No comment


Ensure collaboration and coordination with the Province Demonstrate leadership at the regional level and advocate on behalf of the region at

the provincial level



No comment


The Province is a key partner on this issue and they need to have a greater presence in this discussion if the Growth Plan is going to have a substantial impact on protection of agricultural lands and growing the industries of food production.


No comment



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Ensure effective regional mobility. Recognizing the link between efficient movement of people and goods and regional prosperity, we will work towards an (improving our – Crouse) integrated multi-modal regional transportation system. Policy Area: Transit & Mobility


Evans – Cultural shift/convenience needed - 30 years →50 years???

An efficient, cost-effective and integrated regional transportation network to support (economic and social - Katchur) growth and connect the region

Coordination of land use and transportation networks to support the efficient movement of people, goods and services through the region and beyond. Evans – with the open space “between” make less viable


Evans – Movement of people with special needs – aging population. Urban written. Village Town plan urban employment clusters.




•Need policy support for a mode shift – parking management, toll charge, fuel tax etc. •Need to address specialized transit and rural transportation. •A coordinated regional Mobility Management program (such as carpool/vanpool) should be part of the strategy. •Ensure connectivity between major recreation facilities / spaces and employment clusters, as well as major transportation hubs. •Strathcona County supports and implements trail linkages which supports recreational pursuits, provides active transportation opportunities, that are located in urban as well as rural areas, that support walkable communities, and that are inclusive and accessible.


This is an urban view. What is impact of modal changes? How impact daily living → employment → land use, etc. How do students fit in? Coordinated to support not only movement of people but also goods and services Location of people Taking into consideration urban/rural context – connectivity to employment clusters


No comment


Need to move away from auto-oriented transportation Link to liveable communities, economic competitiveness and environment Integrate land use and transit/transportation to promote transit use and active

transportation Focus on alleviating traffic congestion by improving non-automobile options Explore opportunities for active transportation/trails at regional scale Relate the cost of transit to roadway infrastructure investment



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This is an important strategy, particularly in relation to knowledge-based employment areas (e.g. Downtown Edmonton). Also, we recommend discussing dedicated rapid bus/HOV lanes on major corridors as a cost-effective way to reduce commuter congestion. However, we must not ignore that the Capital region is also largely an industrial/ agriculture-based economy requiring the efficient movement of both people and goods. These employment areas require efficient transportation systems for day-to-day employment and economic activities, not only commuting. Therefore, ensuring a high level of connectivity for all types of vehicles (both conventional and alternative) is necessary for a sustainable economy.


No comment


● Mode shift towards transit is the most likely alternative that will provide options for regional commuters, as travel distances are generally longer than what would be possible by cycling or walking ● Park and ride locations that are regionally planned and strategically located are essential to promote mode shift. ● Development of complete communities with fully developed local cycling and walking infrastructure will allow mode shift for more local trips, such as shopping and trips to school ● Support of main streets in urban and rural areas supports walking and biking in the right context. ● The first prerequisite for mode shift is a basic level of infrastructure for the alternate modes, which for the regional active transportation network will require accommodation of crossing major highway barriers, such as Anthony Henday Drive.


Establish a regional operating entity with harmonized fare structures, service standards and a completed LRT system. Identify transit corridors with priority traffic management.



Regional synergies should be nurtured and/or established within the Capital Region to ensure regional trail initiatives are well planned, funded, and eventually implemented. A sound example of this model is the River Valley Alliance or Beaver Hills Initiative. These groups assist municipalities with tools and support to provide much needed active transportation options for residents and visitors.


Who are the partners? (All levels of gov’t, employers, schools, etc.) That supports “more” efficient … Park & ride improvements “Convenient” use a must.


No comment


Focus on goods movement and full range of modes – rail, air, road


Improve connections and movement within Capital Region to other regions Create better integration of land use and transportation at the community scale



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No comment


● Joint land use planning initiatives in the region would help ensure that appropriate land uses are clustered around major infrastructure. ● Transportation-related expenses are recognized as adding significantly to Affordable Housing need of lower-income households, and therefore public policy should strive to provide Affordable Housing in areas in proximity to public transit.


Introduce TODs in appropriate locations along the LRT system. Establish priority transportation corridors to assist in the movement of all vehicles.

3. Develop and maintain municipal and inter-municipal transit systems to create an integrated and seamless inter-municipal transit network


•Utilize available technologies to improve transit operations and customer experience. •Provide priorities to transit vehicles along side key transit corridors such as signal priorities/queue jump lanes and HOV/Bus-only lanes


A seamless system ie. Regional transit system is important.


No comment


Integrate systems to improve transit connections across the region Examine opportunities to create interconnections between municipal transit systems Improve transit options to Core from outlining areas and within and across region



No comment


● Regional transit will require close collaboration between the current providing agencies in order to provide an effective and efficient service for their respective areas and/or a new delivery model ● A common electronic fare platform that allows transferring between agencies will aid to create a sense of seamless regional travel and avoid confusion for travelers that currently exists with various available fare products ● Joint development of service plans, especially related to key intercity routes or transfers, is important to provide a service that is integrated and avoids excessive service overlap between agencies


A regional transit system supported by an enabling provincial transit policy will lead to realizing the goals envisioned in the original CRB plan.



•Need a sustainable dedicated transit funding to support mode shift and help smaller municipalities provide services. •Explore opportunities of partnerships with private sectors in developing transit services and transit-oriented developments.

Susan Evans, Better



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Sturgeon County Gale Katchur, Ft. Sask

No comment


No comment


No comment


Transit capital funding for expansion and renewal will require additional support from the provincial government and other municipalities in order to build out a full regional system


A regional transit commission properly supported by provisional regulation will enable the commission to expand the regional system without unduly burdening local municipalities with additional capital debt. This to be assumed by the commission.

5. Explore long-term potential for regional commuter rail service




50 years down the road will rail be the answer? If so, can it be done with out bankrupting the region? will it only be for moving people? →should be exclude movement of goods & services. Is it even possible


No comment


No comment


No comment


In the longer term there will be limits to how far LRT can provide practical service and it would be beneficial to explore other regional transit options, including bus rapid transit (BRT) and commuter rail service


Commuter rail service on established heavy rail lines may be appropriate as outlying areas of the region experience additional population growth. In the near time horizon, public transit services within the region are best served by completing the proposed LRT network and expanding transit services to employment nodes and specialized services to seniors and persons with disabilities within the region.


Crouse - Also Specialized Transit needs.

Evans – Movement of people with special needs. Families in need. Special needs. Seniors.



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Recognize and celebrate the diversity of communities and promote an excellent quality of life across the region. In planning for growth, we will recognize and respond to the different contexts and scales of communities and provide a variety of housing choice with easy access to transportation, employment, parks and open spaces, and community and cultural amenities. Policy Area: Communities & Housing Choice


Complete communities to meet people’s needs for daily living at all ages and provide convenient access to a mix of jobs, local services, community infrastructure and multi-modal transportation choices, appropriate to the scale of the community

Sustainable and resilient communities across the region

A region of inclusive communities that is supportive of seniors and vulnerable members of the population

A diversity of affordable housing options to meet evolving regional demographics and needs to accommodate the projected growth to 2044

Housing options in proximity to services, employment and transit serviced areas, with multi-modal mobility choices to major employment areas

Evans - Urban context – how does Rural fit?




•Ensure these communities include recreational infrastructure that is accessible and inclusive, and responsive to the change in demographics. •Look at adaptable housing for aging in place. •Consider accessibility of specific populations when determining location of amenities, for example medical facilities/pharmacies near seniors housing, daycares near neighbourhoods with young families.


Or 50 years? Mobility. Recognize diversity.


No comment


Plan for changing demographics and life cycle of the population over the next 30 years

Identify and define areas for mixed-use development and higher density forms of housing linked to transit and active transportation routes


Consider housing options for aboriginal communities, the vulnerable and seniors. Yes. Shifts in age, family structure, ethnicity and tenure affect how and where we live. It is important to examine current and future demographic trends, and to plan for long-term demographic changes in the coming 30 years. Examine transitional housing for non-permanent labour force

Examining transitional housing for non-permanent labor force may be beneficial, but should be considered carefully within the context of creating livable, integrated and



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complete communities. Nolan Crouse, CRB Chair

No comment


● Consideration needs to be given to the changing needs in demographic groups, not just the demographics themselves (i.e. more active seniors; tendency for young adults to prefer transit; impacts of new technology on the needs of different age groups) ● Metro Edmonton accommodates a significant population of lower and fixed-income households who are continuously challenged with high and rising housing costs. The region will soon have Canada’s largest urban aboriginal population (visible minorities as well will rise from one-fifth of the population to one-third) – many with large families and also an older existing population.


Public transit services enable seniors to age in place by providing transportation options to access required services found in the urban core.



No comment


Expand on ‘appropriate’. Infrastructure can support?


No comment


Support the sustainability and resiliency of older urban communities through redevelopment and renewal.



No comment


Affordable Housing is a general category of specific housing types, including Supportive Housing, Supported Housing, Social Housing and Independent-Living Affordable Housing. All Affordable Housing is provided through government subsidies on a rental or ownership basis at below market rates for long-term occupancy by less than median income households. While such needs exist in all sub-regions, Affordable Housing options are currently not located in all areas, resulting in sub-regional housing need and supply imbalances.


Housing options appropriate to each municipality supported by appropriate transportation services will allow smaller, rural communities to retain their senior population.

3. Recognize the distinct character of each community in the region while promoting diversity of amenities, services and housing within all communities


Ensure recreation facilities and spaces also reflect the distinct character of individual communities.


Transportation



30


No comment


No comment


No comment


It’s important that the tiers specify what diversity means in the Metro Core vs. Rural and care will be needed to achieve this while recognizing the distinct character of each community in the region. Diversity of housing within all communities should not be interpreted narrowly to each community having a range of housing built-forms (e.g. singles, row, apartment) but there should be consideration extended on whether each community could also have a range of Affordable Housing types that are accessible to area households in housing need to enable them to remain in their communities of choice and not be forced to leave due to the lack of area nonmarket housing options.


Same as above.



No comment


Agree. Rural context → What about towns/villages? Employment cluster in rural areas??


No comment


Focus on redevelopment opportunities and neighbourhood renewal and reinvestment Identify intensification targets, appropriate to the scale and context of communities Encouraging range of housing types and forms of development and redevelopment Consider live-work opportunities and creating high-density housing closer to

employment clusters



No comment


Density targets (greenfield/infill/non-residential) should reflect the availability of transit; however, this should not be seen as a pass for communities that do not have transit to sprawl at low density.


Plan transit oriented developments where appropriate and build the LRT system as planned.



•The country residential review should also consider the appropriate level of municipal services in order to protect the environment, increase infrastructure resiliency and



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safeguard public health. •If communities that are a distance from major centres promote aging-in-place and population diversity, it is important to provide associated services. Otherwise, transportation would become a big issue.


Regional transport service


Why is this even here? I don’t see the applicability and why we should be supporting this form of development.


Consider country residential development and alternate housing forms in rural areas Review feasibility of country residential redevelopment and reconsider CCRA policy

and criteria through feasibility lens Provide clear direction on residential development in rural areas



No comment


● Country residential should to be minimized. It is the least efficient development form in the region from a land use, transportation and servicing perspective. Some allowance needs to be made to permit these uses where they already exist or where plans already exist, but CR should be restricted far more than the current Growth Plan allows. ● Rural residential and hamlets need to be addressed far better in the policy. There should be protection for existing communities, without artificially propping them up if their continued existence is not feasible.


Public transit services within the region need to reflect specific residential areas. Conventional transit services are not affordable in rural areas yet specialized needs exist. Unique alternative forms of public transit need to be explored to enable these needs to be met. The organization and mobilization of these unique forms are best supported by a regional transit commission.


Crouse – Housing builds along LRT corridors and it needs to be stated as such.


Growth Plan Update


1

Committee: GPF COMMITTEE

Committee Member:

CRB Committee Consultation November 30, 2015 The input as submitted from members is included below. Notes:

A table has been prepared for each priority issue with the comments provided by each member who submitted.

Some of the responses were related to directly to the supporting statements, which have been added in the table (bulleted) to give context to the input.

Where comments have been made outside the Priority Issues, the comment has been added after the Priority Issue.


lsaskiw_CAP

Typewritten Text

Item 6d

lsaskiw_CAP

Typewritten Text

lsaskiw_CAP

Typewritten Text

Growth Plan Update Committee Consultation

2

Protect natural living systems and environmental assets. We will practice wise environmental stewardship and promote the health of the regional ecosystem by protecting watersheds and environmentally sensitive areas.

Policy Area: Natural Living Systems What are we trying to achieve?





What are the priority issues the Growth Plan Update needs to address? 1. Value, protect and enhance natural ecosystems including regionally significant natural areas and their

regional connectivity

Member Comment

Michael Walters, Edmonton The term “value” can be both qualitative and quantitative and this probably warrants some consideration of how to quantify the value of regionally significant areas. This also raised the question of how we evaluated areas where ‘enhancement’ or degradation has taken place.

Wayne Woldanski, Lamont County

Lamont County understands the importance of wetlands and the role they play in preserving the natural ecosystem. Rural municipalities struggle with demands for rural residence looking to drain their land for private development/enjoyment or even ease of farming practices. What is required is an education promotion to assist the public in the understanding of the ecosystem and how it functions, the benefits to maintaining wetlands within agricultural lands. Any proposed policies that protect wetlands, and their connectivity, on a regional basis need also consider the educational aspect to inform the public.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc Reinforce the protection of natural systems in relation to growth and resiliency (ability to adapt to changes in the climate and economy)



Agree with all of the above. Protecting and enhancing our natural

ecosystems should become a higher priority to ensure future generations

can enjoy a healthy environment. The environment does not have local

boundaries, so an integrated regional approach would be beneficial for a

more comprehensive solution.


Incentives may be an effective way to help manage natural areas on



3

private lands, but is this strategy appropriate at the intended level of this

plan?

Create a policy framework that support up to a provincial level –

baseline of protection at a regional level

We will need more details on this topic before we can comment.

2. Plan development that promotes clean air, land and water, reduces energy consumption and greenhouse gas

emissions, and remediates and reuses brownfield lands

Member Comment

Michael Walters, Edmonton No Comment


The CRB will need to lobby both Provincial and Federal Governments to ensure that applicable funding can be accessed to ensure new technology can be developed and promoted within the Energy Sector that Alberta and the CRB depend on as economic drivers for our region, province and nationally to reduce emission rates or find solutions for the use of these byproducts.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc Explore opportunities to enhance the resiliency of communities and infrastructure networks




Perhaps there are two or even three separate policy topic areas here: 1)

promoting the health/preservation of the environment through prevention

of environmental degradation, and 2) addressing the effects of existing

environmental impacts of climate change on our communities.



Member Comment



There are good plans in place within member partners of the CRB, these should be explored for possible amendment and adoption within the entire CRB.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc Ensure growth protects the region’s watershed for next 30-50 years



4

Confirm sufficient water supply to accommodate the region’s projected employment and population growth


4. Manage conflict between natural living systems, natural resource extraction, solid waste, and energy

corridors to minimize fragmentation of natural systems

Member Comment



We do need to review the recreational use of environmentally sensitive lands? The popularity of ATV’s is starting to put pressure on the rural landscape.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc Integrate and align policies related to natural systems across the region/municipalities

Explore the impacts of planned energy corridors on natural systems

Understand the solid waste impacts related to the natural living system

Look at energy corridors and resource extraction through sustainability lens


5. Align regional policies with provincial and federal policies, standards and regulations, including the North

Saskatchewan Regional Plan

Member Comment

Michael Walters, Edmonton Depending on provincial and federal expectations (policies, standards, regulations), when local needs are taken into consideration it may be appropriate in certain instances for provincial and federal expectations to be considered minimum requirements – “align with” but consider the potential to exceed. The policy area includes “a strategy to anticipate and address climate change” but it is not specifically referenced in the “issues” section. – “anticipating and mitigating the impacts of climate change on natural systems” might be the issue.


Lamont County would be on board with alignment of regional policies with both Provincial and federal policy.



5

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc No Comment



6

Promote economic competitiveness and regional prosperity. We will foster a diverse and innovative economy that builds upon our existing strengths, infrastructure and employment areas to achieve sustained economic growth and prosperity.

Policy Area: Economic Competitiveness & Employment What are we trying to achieve?

An excellent quality of life to attract and retain workers



A diverse and resilient regional economy to remain competitive in a changing global economy What are the priority issues the Growth Plan Update needs to address? 1. Define and foster existing employment clusters

Member Comment

Michael Walters, Edmonton Existing employment clusters are important, but there needs to be thought put into where the future employment clusters will be located, and how that will be addressed from an economic development, transportation and land use perspective in the plan.


Lamont County essentially is a member of the CRB through the extension of our involvement with the Alberta Industrial Heartland. We have a vast tract of Heavy Industrial zoned land base. The land base is serviced by both a well-defined Provincial Highway system and is bisected by both National Railways. As a predominate greenfield area it is Lamont County’s desire to see synergies of the perspective growth within our Heavy Industrial lands to foster cluster developments.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc Grow and distinguish existing employment areas and regional economic drivers

A lot of importance seems is being placed on existing employment areas,

which is important for reducing unnecessary sprawl and reducing

incompatible uses. However, let’s not forget about the importance of

fostering new and emerging markets and employment clusters. In order

for future diversification of the economy to be sustained, new lands to

grow new sectors should be understood and identified as well, especially

areas that are contiguous to existing employment clusters and regional

infrastructure (e.g. supporting new and emerging “Aerotropolis” clusters

around the Edmonton International Airport).





7

We should be clear that we are not trying to be overly prescriptive here. It

may be more appropriate to think along the lines of “strategically guiding

future employment lands, while supporting the diversity of new and

emerging industries”.


2. Plan for a full range of employment from heavy industrial to office and institutional and government uses in

the region

Member Comment



Lamont County agrees that the CRB needs to be more active to encourage institutional and government dispersal to the outlying rural communities to help diversify the communities and ensure long term viability of the Region in addition to the attraction of industrial and commercial growth opportunities.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc Provide direction on managing job growth in a range of employment types: heavy to light industrial, commercial, major retail, office

The prospect of the CRB providing direction on managing job growth

creates concerns. Prescriptive policies should be avoided, in order to

ensure clustering and market innovation is fostered and the high-level

nature of the CRB Growth Plan is maintained.


Agreed. But let’s remember that there are numerous important

employment nodes aside from downtown areas. For example, supporting a

variety industrial employment areas is equally important (both inside and

outside of the City of Edmonton) will be critical to the region’s economic

sustainability..



When we talk about “defining” in a 30-50 year context, we should be

careful, and remember that employment and job growth responds to

rapidly changing market demands and technological shifts. Long-range

perspective policies that cannot account for technological and shifts could

be counterproductive.



8


3. Plan and coordinate infrastructure to foster and support employment clusters and economic competitiveness

Member Comment

Michael Walters, Edmonton Find a mechanism for ranking major regionally required infrastructure in a similar fashion to what is done with transportation by the CRB currently.


Better coordination and communication with the CRB members and Provincial departments will be crucial to ensuring the right emphasis is being placed on the right projects. An example would be how within the CRB, Alberta Transportation services is provided from different district centers. It is difficult at best to ensure that our regional transportation needs are being meant but when the planning and coordination is being provided from district centers outside of the CRB and those district centers are not familiar with the CRB or the Alberta Industrial Heartland our needs are not being met.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc Focus on goods and people movement in and out of the region

Agreed. While public transit is suitable for moving a certain ratio of

workers, especially knowledge-based professions, a thriving economy will

continue to rely on strong and well connected road and highway systems,

cargo rail, air transport to ensure the efficient movement of goods into,

out of, and throughout region.



The CRB Growth Plan is supposed to be a high level regional plan, and can

be used to guide provincial decisions on infrastructure investment over the

long term. However, a new definitive approval mechanism would be

inappropriate and inefficient at the CRB level.


Our understanding that this would be to obtain the necessary buy-in from

the Province for the updated CRGP. If that is not the case, then we request

further clarification and discussion.

Set servicing and intensification standards

Engineering and planning standards vary from municipality to municipality,

creating diversity amongst our unique communities. Exploring unification



9

of these types of standards may be worth exploring, but may prove to be

onerous and lead to overly homogeneous built forms throughout the

region.

Plan for infrastructure, energy and utility corridors

Identify economic clusters, define distinct roles and infrastructure

To a point. However, it is also important to understand that markets will

evolve and new clusters will arise. We want to promote innovation.

Employment clusters are very subtle entities requiring a diverse array of

upstream and downstream inputs and outputs. The CRGP should remain

high level guide to planning our region and be careful of being overly

prescriptive at the local level, so that employment areas are able to evolve

over time.

4. Promote liveablity and plan for the needs of a changing population and workforce

Member Comment



The more rural communities within the CRB will face the most challenges in regard to an aging population. These communities will need to see the most attention towards growth development to ensure the viability of the communities and that the amenities required to attract/retain youth and a workforce base is achievable.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc Address liveability factors including quality of life, housing and transportation to attract and retain workers

Yes. Retaining and attracting skilled workers is, and will continue to be, a

major issue to address in order to ensure the region continues to be

competitive and can provide the supply of skilled labour needed to grow

our economy. An example would be supporting the expansion of post-

secondary campuses through satellite campuses in the region.

It is important to protect and promote a diverse range of lifestyle options

to ensure a diverse, healthy and competitive region.



Member Comment

Michael Walters, Edmonton Diversification is a good start; but there should also be recognition of all the major employers in the region such as government, health care, and



10

research/education in our post-secondary institutions. The CRB should continue to foster their success, as well as advocate for their continued sustainability to the Provincial/Federal governments.


The oil/gas or energy sector is no longer a regional industry for Alberta, the world attention to greenhouse gases and climate change will necessitate a change in how energy is developed and consumed. The CRB needs also recognize that these changes are here to stay and that our resource based economy needs also to change. There is huge value add in our raw product and we should be looking towards the development of industry that can utilize these feedstocks and produce new streams of product and further manufacturing of finished goods. If we direct our marketing to industry we should gear these efforts to illustrate to them our understanding of their needs and be able to illustrate the synergies and benefits to them locating here in the CR.


6. Position the region to leverage future economic drivers, emerging markets and potential growth sectors

Member Comment

Michael Walters, Edmonton As reflected in CRB studies coordinating and positioning the region includes addressing its identity to distinguish it from other ‘capital’ regions. Part of this has started through the development of the Growth Plan vision with the development of the term Edmonton Metro Region.


More emphasis needs to be placed on attracting and developing a larger industrial process and manufacturing clusters. We should start to discourage the export of raw products and foster the encouragement of attracting industry to build facilities that can utilize our feed stock.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc Aerotropolis (airport integrated development) is a great example of

promoting regional economic diversification and innovation in the short

and long-term future. It is also a good example of how a percentage of

knowledge-based office jobs will emerge, a large portion will continue to

be in high value manufacturing and distribution jobs.


Yes. Keep the CRBGP at a high enough level to avoid prescriptive policies to

avoid stifling innovation and growth.


Ensure that we include other emerging markets that align with the realities

of our region’s economy (i.e. not only the knowledge-based professions).

We suggest adding Advanced Manufacturing, Agri-Business, Aerospace &



11

Aviation, and Transportation/Logistics & Distribution to this list.

Promote innovation in oil and gas sector (for example: oil and gas recycling etc.)



Member Comment

Michael Walters, Edmonton Exploration of funding models and cost/revenue sharing should be explored through the Growth Plan Update so that the region can continue to push forward towards successful regional outcomes that benefit all. This could also be used as a mechanism to reduce intermunicipal competition and replace it with regional cooperation.


Both the Federal and Provincial governments need to be lobbied to ensure that there are both tax benefits that will attract new manufacturing industry but that there is also proportionate increases to infrastructure funding programs to ensure these new industries can be supported.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc Create win-wins through regional joint venture model

Address funding models to allow for success – revenue sharing as model

Share non-residential wealth

Link employment clusters to the potential for ‘wealth sharing’

These suggested strategies will require a more robust description and

discussion so that all of the implications, costs and benefits, can be better

understood.



12


Policy Area: Integration of Land Use & Infrastructure What are we trying to achieve?

A clear definition of where and how to grow over the next 30 years to guide both residential and job growth






What are the priority issues the Growth Plan Update needs to address? 1. Establish a development pattern that is compact and contiguous by defining criteria for urban, rural and

hamlet growth.

Member Comment



This will need to flexible enough to ensure that the criteria placed on larger centers is not similarly imposed on rural areas.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc Apply density targets to both employment and residential growth.

The CRBGP’s residential density targets has created a number of major

issues since the original growth plan was released. Residential density

targets should be reviewed and tested carefully with communities

throughout the region.

PGAs and residential density targets need to be reviewed. It will be

advantageous to explore a minimum, but no ceiling for urbanized areas in

order to promote sustainability, reduce sprawl and avoid homogeneity.

When reviewing residential density targets, each municipality’s unique

typology should be considered. A principle of proportional increases could

be considered (e.g. achieving a certain percentage above and beyond

existing densities, with consideration for each municipality’s unique

context).

Defining appropriate density targets for employment would be far more

complex and impactful than residential targets, and could be detrimental

to the region`s economy if the targets are inaccurate. We suggest ensuring



13

any residential density targets are appropriate in this version of the

CRBGP, before attempting employment targets.



Member Comment



This needs to consider the means to ensure that rural centers are not excluded or are found to be at a detriment to larger center growth. It should be mandated that high density growth nodes are centered along transit routes in a manner that minimizes urban sprawl.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc More details will be required to understand the implications, especially for

smaller centers and industrial/business park areas.


Yes, where possible and a market exists. But, we need to make sure that

each municipality’s unique context is understood. For example Edmonton’s

core mature neighbourhoods can support much higher density infill than

smaller communities on the periphery.


3. Promote the use of under utilized infrastructure through redevelopment and intensification of existing built-

up areas

Member Comment



Urban infill should be encouraged.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc Redevelopment is a priority and important to optimize existing infrastructure and limit development footprint


Again, we need to make sure that each municipality’s unique context is

understood in terms of redevelopment.



14


Member Comment



This is a priority for the rural members of the CRB. The existing water commissions are a good example to utilize as a model; however it is not only the development of the supply but also the distribution/collection within the rural centers that will need to see development occur in.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc Create a mechanism to coordinate and review infrastructure plans at regional level



5. Identify mechanisms for integrating and coordinating growth and infrastructure plans at the municipal and

regional levels, including a regional evaluation framework, to approve regionally significant infrastructure projects

Member Comment

Michael Walters, Edmonton This analysis should consider a full cost accounting framework that includes the environmental and health costs in addition to financial over the lifecycle of the development. Consideration may need to be given in the development of policy around this topic on how regionally significant projects that are funded/executed by the Province could be evaluated by the REF process. Instead of looking at infrastructure on a project basis, there could be merit in a REF process around Master Plans (transportation, transit, utilities, etc). It’s been suggested that service commissions (water, sewer) also would not fit under the mandate of the CRB, but coordination of utility master plans may be a way to ensure their plans are coordinated with the Growth Plan.


This is a lofty but achievable goal if supported by the urban centers that rural centers may initially require a disproportionate share of the infrastructure development projects.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc Encourage harmonization – yes. But to predetermine through a new REF decision making process is inappropriate at the CRB level.



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6. Harmonize regionally significant infrastructure policies and standards across the region

Member Comment

Michael Walters, Edmonton Caution should be exercised on full harmonization of standards. Having non-harmonized standards gives the option of flexibility to allow for context sensitive designs so that the transportation infrastructure is supportive for the surrounding land uses.


Lamont County sees a benefit to standardizing servicing standards and the utilization of standard products for ease of construction and maintenance. Our concern is that the robustness a large urban center would require may be too much for a rural center to need to function at the same level of service. Will there be consideration for a scaled standard?




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Ensure the wise management of prime agricultural resources. In the context of metropolitan growth, we will ensure the wise management of agricultural resources to continue a thriving agricultural sector.

Policy Area: Agriculture What are we trying to achieve?



Direction on where and when agricultural lands can develop for non-agricultural uses and rural residential development


What are the priority issues the Growth Plan Update needs to address? 1. Sustain prime agricultural lands at the regional level

Member Comment

Michael Walters, Edmonton There needs to be a common understanding of what prime agricultural lands are and how they can be defined and delineated. Some policy on this is necessary, but it will likely require that the Province get involved since there will be an inherent conflict between preservation of agricultural lands and the ability of landowners to use their land.


Would this necessitate urban centers to live within their current boundaries? Lamont County has within our Municipal Development Plan put in place land use policies that are meant to protect and preserve agricultural lands. The CRB is seen to be interfering with our local autonomy by attempting to implement overarching policies in rural municipalities on the preservation and protection of agricultural lands. Alberta and Canada as a whole are significant producers and exporters of agricultural products to the world. The continued practice of agriculture and the preservation of a secure local food supply will not be a concern for generations to come.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc Address staging of future growth, policy approach to respond to pressure on the land relative to its tier







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Member Comment

Michael Walters, Edmonton This could be accomplished by development of general policies on appropriate transitions between rural and urban areas that would take into account the potential for future expansion.


Better coordination of communication on development applications and intermunicipal fringes would need to be developed.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc Agreed in principle with exploring these important yet sensitive policy

areas/strategies, while being inclusive and sensitive to the input of our

rural members’ and agricultural producers.





We need to define growth direction for every municipality. Let’s discuss

and better understand the interface today, and where it should be

tomorrow.

3. Address pressures for non-agricultural development in rural areas on prime agricultural lands [e.g., new

agricultural acreage, multi-lot country cluster residential, rural residential, all types of industrial] and fragmentation of agricultural lands

Member Comment

Michael Walters, Edmonton Fragmentation of agricultural lands needs to be discouraged, particularly in the urban shadow. Country residential, in particular, should not be encouraged through the GPU.


A balance needs to be in place on the use of agricultural lands for growth in the same way as urban neighbours utilize prime agricultural lands for their growth. Lamont County sees this as a priority issue and recognizes that we will need to amend our statutory plans to ensure there are better control



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measures in place to:

Restrict fragmentation of agricultural lands for non-agricultural uses,

Foster opportunities for agricultural value added opportunities;

Ensure the ability to see non-agricultural developments can occur on lands not significant to agricultural uses.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc Policy direction on acreage developments (subdivisions for residential and non-agricultural use,/densification of residential uses on large agricultural parcels)


Review viability of Multi-lot Country Cluster Residential

Understand and address impact of rural industrial development on agricultural lands

Address rural development and fragmentation of agricultural lands

Explore impact of densification of non-agricultural acreage developments on infrastructure requirements/commuting


4. Promote growth of the region’s agricultural sector, including food production and processing, as a key

regional economic driver

Member Comment

Michael Walters, Edmonton Will need to be careful that promoting of the agricultural sector does not have the unintended consequence of negatively impacting other key economic drivers


Lamont County encourages any growth within the agricultural sector for value added products and food manufacturing opportunities.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc Support long-term agricultural sector (for example: food production and processing)

Foster viable agricultural operations – plan and coordinate infrastructure required for production, processing, distribution, value-added production activities

Recognize agriculture/local food production and processing as a key economic driver and contributor to the region’s economy


. 5. Plan and coordinate infrastructure to support and enhance the agricultural sector



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Member Comment



Fully supported by Lamont County.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc Address infrastructure needs to support agricultural sector growth: food production, processing, distribution, logistics, warehousing etc.





Member Comment

Michael Walters, Edmonton The Province is a key partner on this issue and they need to have a greater presence in this discussion if the Growth Plan is going to have a substantial impact on protection of agricultural lands and growing the industries of food production.


Lamont County would encourage any dialogue of this nature but also wants to ensure that the opportunity for other land use pursuits is also available where they can be encouraged and would support local market agricultural operations.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc Ensure collaboration and coordination with the Province

Demonstrate leadership at the regional level and advocate on behalf of the region at the provincial level




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Ensure effective regional mobility. Recognizing the link between efficient movement of people and goods and regional prosperity, we will work towards an integrated multi-modal regional transportation system.

Policy Area: Transit & Mobility What are we trying to achieve?

An efficient, cost-effective and integrated regional transportation network to support growth and connect the region

Coordination of land use and transportation networks to support the efficient movement of people, goods and services through the region and beyond


What are the priority issues the Growth Plan Update needs to address? 1. Encourage a mode shift to transit, high-occupancy vehicles and active transportation options appropriate to

the scale of the community

Member Comment

Michael Walters, Edmonton Development of complete communities with fully developed local cycling and walking infrastructure will allow mode shift for more local trips, such as shopping and trips to school The first prerequisite for mode shift is a basic level of infrastructure for the alternate modes, which for the regional active transportation network will require accommodation of crossing major highway barriers, such as Anthony Henday Drive.


Lamont County openly acknowledges that there are vast distances between the various members of the CRB. Smaller communities will continue to struggle to attract viable industry & business opportunities that would provide a population base that in itself would sustain medical/dental practitioners and provide for economically viable recreational facilities. The CRB needs to be actively engaged in seeing that not only the interests of the larger members are facilitated but that the smaller centers needs are being met. Seeing rural communities grow would also see that there is less need for long distance commuting.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc Need to move away from auto-oriented transportation

Link to liveable communities, economic competitiveness and environment

Integrate land use and transit/transportation to promote transit use and active transportation

Focus on alleviating traffic congestion by improving non-automobile options

Explore opportunities for active transportation/trails at regional scale

Relate the cost of transit to roadway infrastructure investment

This is an important strategy, particularly in relation to knowledge-based



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employment areas (e.g. Downtown Edmonton). Also, we recommend

discussing dedicated rapid bus/HOV lanes on major corridors as a cost-

effective way to reduce commuter congestion.

However, we must not ignore that the Capital region is also largely an industrial/agriculture-based economy requiring the efficient movement of both people and goods. These employment areas require efficient transportation systems for day-to-day employment and economic activities, not only commuting. Therefore, ensuring a high level of connectivity for all types of vehicles (both conventional and alternative) is necessary for a sustainable economy.

2. Coordinate land use and transportation to support the efficient and safe movement of people, goods and

services

Member Comment



Agreed as long as these efforts are not solely centered on major centers within the CRB.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc Focus on goods movement and full range of modes – rail, air, road

The movement of goods through well connected high-volume rail/air/road

transportation systems is vital to our region’s economy. We look forward to more

detail and discussion.


Create better integration of land use and transportation at the community scale

3. Develop and maintain municipal and inter-municipal transit systems to create an integrated and seamless

inter-municipal transit network

Member Comment



The expansion of light rail transit from Edmonton to larger centers within the CRB and providing for local bus transit centers and parking facilities at the rail terminal would provide the opportunity to significantly reduce commuter traffic between and within our larger communities. Population density is insufficient to support transit in outlying areas.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc Integrate systems to improve transit connections across the region

Examine opportunities to create interconnections between municipal transit systems

Improve transit options to Core from outlining areas and within and across region



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4. Establish transit funding priorities and a long-term investment strategy with regional and provincial

alignment

Member Comment



Agreed as long as these efforts are not solely centered on major centers within the CRB.


5. Explore long-term potential for regional commuter rail service

Member Comment

Michael Walters, Edmonton In the longer term there will be limits to how far LRT can provide practical service and it would be beneficial to explore other regional transit options, including bus rapid transit (BRT) and commuter rail service


There would be definite benefits to the region for a regional commuter rail system. The reduction of commuter traffic from busy highways could provide some relief to congestion currently being experienced and which is likely to continue to grow with our economy. A regional handi-capped and seniors transit service needs to be planed for in the outlying rural areas of the CRB.




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Recognize and celebrate the diversity of communities and promote an excellent quality of life across the region. In planning for growth, we will recognize and respond to the different contexts and scales of communities and provide a variety of housing choice with easy access to transportation, employment, parks and open spaces, and community and cultural amenities.

Policy Area: Communities & Housing Choice What are we trying to achieve?

Complete communities to meet people’s needs for daily living at all ages and provide convenient access to a mix of jobs, local services, community infrastructure and multi-modal transportation choices, appropriate to the scale of the community

Sustainable and resilient communities across the region

A region of inclusive communities that is supportive of seniors and vulnerable members of the population

A diversity of affordable housing options to meet evolving regional demographics and needs to accommodate the projected growth to 2044

Housing options in proximity to services, employment and transit serviced areas, with multi-modal mobility choices to major employment areas

What are the priority issues the Growth Plan Update needs to address? 1. Plan communities to respond to changing demographics over the next 30 years

Member Comment

Michael Walters, Edmonton Consideration needs to be given to the changing needs in demographic groups, not just the demographics themselves (i.e. more active seniors; tendency for young adults to prefer transit; impacts of new technology on the needs of different age groups) Metro Edmonton accommodates a significant population of lower and fixed-income households who are continuously challenged with high and rising housing costs. The region will soon have Canada’s largest urban aboriginal population (visible minorities as well will rise from one-fifth of the population to one-third) – many with large families and also an older existing population.


Lamont County and our town sites will have significant challenges ahead over the next 30 years with mainly an aging agricultural based population and our youth looking at the larger urban centers for advanced education and employment opportunities. Our challenge will be to accommodate viable options within their communities for employment, recreation and living. We will need to find the means to attract and retain industrial and commercial developments as well as find opportunities for the development of viable value-added agricultural businesses that will have long term and meaningful opportunities for our youth.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc Plan for changing demographics and life cycle of the population over the next 30 years

Identify and define areas for mixed-use development and higher density forms of housing linked to transit and active transportation



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routes



Yes. Shifts in age, family structure, ethnicity and tenure affect how and

where we live. It is important to examine current and future demographic

trends, and to plan for long-term demographic changes in the coming 30

years.

Examine transitional housing for non-permanent labour force


2. Provide a range of housing options throughout the region in a form appropriate to the scale and context of

each community

Member Comment



Lamont County has generally looked to our neighbouring town sites to address regional residential growth. It is now considered by Lamont County that we will need to accommodate new growth nodes around our existing Hamlets or cluster developments around existing multi-lot residential developments. It is envisioned by Lamont County that we will be able to identify areas for residential growth nodes to occur in order to service the expected industrial developments within our Heavy Industrial zoned lands. The residential growth nodes will aid in the reduction of commuter transit trips from adjacent municipalities and will illustrate to the perspective industrial developer that Lamont County is a viable option that offers local residential options for their work force.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc Support the sustainability and resiliency of older urban communities through redevelopment and renewal.


Promote multi-family housing with access to services and amenities rather than clustering all multi-family and non-market housing within the Core

3. Recognize the distinct character of each community in the region while promoting diversity of amenities,

services and housing within all communities



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Member Comment

Michael Walters, Edmonton It’s important that the tiers specify what diversity means in the Metro Core vs. Rural and care will be needed to achieve this while recognizing the distinct character of each community in the region.


Lamont County currently is on the outside edge of the Region we observe the growth and prosperity of the larger centers yet experience firsthand the local struggle of our own community’s survival. Our larger neighbours vie for new industrial & commercial developments and see vast tracts of land consumed for residential growth. Lamont County will insist that we are not overlooked and that when we have the opportunity to see development occur it will not be subjected to restrictive policies established to curtail the sprawl that our neighbours are creating. Lamont County is working towards a long term vision to ensure that our corner of the Capital Region has sustainable long term viability. We will encourage industrial and commercial developments and will support the development and expansion of local residential growth. We want to see that our communities are vibrant and able to support the niceties of local medical and dental facilities, commercial retail, restaurants and recreational centers have a sustainable population base. Having Policy in place that illustrates these potentials is important to Lamont County and we believe will illustrate to industry that the Lamont County heavy industrial lands can be developed at that their local work force will not be at a disadvantage or would be required to commute long distances.


4. Encourage transit-supported higher density residential growth through the renewal and intensification of

existing communities and development of compact greenfield neighbourhoods

Member Comment

Michael Walters, Edmonton Density targets (greenfield/infill/non-residential) should reflect the availability of transit; however, this should not be seen as a pass for communities that do not have transit to sprawl at low density.


The land use plan will need to be amended within the Lamont County area to acknowledge that there are viable areas within our predominately agricultural zoned lands for growth and expansion of residential development. Lamont County sees that we need to be able to identify growth nodes around our hamlets or encourage cluster country residential development around existing zoning. By providing viable residential opportunities industrial developers will have some assurance that their work force will not have long commutes.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc Focus on redevelopment opportunities and neighbourhood renewal and reinvestment

Identify intensification targets, appropriate to the scale and context of communities

Encouraging range of housing types and forms of development and



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redevelopment

Consider live-work opportunities and creating high-density housing closer to employment clusters


5. Address implications of rural residential and country residential development and the level of service

required to support the residential forms in a metropolitan area context

Member Comment

Michael Walters, Edmonton Rural residential and hamlets need to be addressed far better in the policy. There should be protection for existing communities, without artificially propping them up if their continued existence is not feasible.


Within Lamont County there has not been a history of country residential

subdivision demand essentially as there was no local employment

opportunities to support larger populations outside of the small rural town

centers. Lamont County sees the potential for some country residential

developments as industry in the region has expanded closer to Lamont and

is beginning to develop within our own Heavy Industrial lands.

Lamont County has previously invested in the construction of a water

reservoir and pump station. This was meant to encourage and support

industrial growth. The industrial growth anticipated has for obvious world

economic concerns not developed. Lamont County will need to look at

other uses to keep this facility open. A trickle water supply system could

easily be developed to supply potable water to the lands south of our

heavy industrial area where two existing country residential developments

have been zoned and could be utilized to anchor cluster developments.

This water distribution would assist the viability of the existing water

reservoir the County has already invested in. Sanitary treatment could be a

combination of packaged treatment plants or on-site treatment facilities.

Glen Finstad, City of Leduc Consider country residential development and alternate housing forms in rural areas

Review feasibility of country residential redevelopment and reconsider CCRA policy and criteria through feasibility lens

Provide clear direction on residential development in rural areas


Aditional Comments:


Documents

TASK FORCE MEETING DECEMBER 11, 2015 AGENDA PACKAGE …emrb.ca/Website/files/e4/e4194595-27f9-4f87-9f7a-5276cb0532f9.pdf · boundaries are not drawn as a hard line. Policies for different