Year-to-date building permit totals are down $882,000 from this time last year in Penhold, though March 2013 raked in $415,800 more than March 2012, according to a report prepared by town planning and development officer Tricia Willis.
While Innisfail has picked up a reputation for slow and steady growth, in recent years Penhold has joined the ranks of quickly blooming communities like Blackfalds and Lacombe.
More than $27-million worth of building permits were issued in 2012.
In March this year 13 permits were issued for single-family homes in Penhold, totalling $2,357,000.
The town gave out seven permits for additions, garages or decks, bringing in $66,300. One industrial permit was issued for a value of $800,000. No revenue was generated from 14 miscellaneous permits handed out.
In addition to the 35 total permits processed by the end of March 2013, the Planning and Development Department reported continued work on Phase 7 of Hawkridge Estates, possible expansion of a development on Fleming Avenue, attending the first Commercial Design Standards Committee and Provincial Court.
In 2011, $10.2-million worth of permits were issued, a feat smashed by June last year. The previous record was $10 million in 1997.
Penhold administration had hoped Melcor Developments would begin work on a subdivision at the north end of town, but the company has decided to list the property with a real estate agent and refocus its energies elsewhere.
