Residents will have an opportunity at an open house next week to speak with steering committee members involved in the formulation of the proposed new South Carstairs Economic Growth Node area structure plan (ASP), say officials.
In the works for two years, the proposed plan, once adopted by council, would provide a land use planning framework to guide future subdivision and development within the plan area.
A steering committee made up of councillors and members of the public at large is overseeing the development of the proposed plan.
"I think we have some really good options to present the community," said councillor and steering committee member Angela Aalbers. "We are still really focusing on the boundary and the size of the area structure plan area, so that's going to be the big topic for discussion at the open house.
"I think the committee is doing very well moving ahead. It's not easy starting from scratch but I think it's working well."
The plan area is located immediately south of Carstairs, bordered on the north by Twp. Rd. 300, west of Rge. Rd. 10, north of Twp. Rd 292, and east of Rge. Rd. 14.
The objectives of the plan include to "implement the objectives and policies of the municipal development plan, land use bylaw, and other county documents which impact land use", "incorporate modern ëbest practice' land use and development standards, prepare regulation and requirements for the efficient management of land use and future development" and "produce a well-structured, organized, coordinated, clear, consistent, thorough and legally enforceable bylaw for public and administration use."
The plan has the following vision statement: "To provide a focused area for intensive commercial and industrial development along established highway and rail corridors while protecting the natural environmental features and allowing for preservation of agricultural land through the remainder of the county."
Goals outlined in the terms of reference include "diversification of tax base, centralization of commercial-industrial features, creation of guidelines for passive recreational space, collaboration with adjacent municipalities, provision of a framework for utility services, and development of a long-term infrastructure strategy."
The open house is scheduled from 6 to 8 p.m., with a presentation at 6:30 p.m., on Nov. 28 at the Carstairs and District Community Hall.
Steering committee members and county staff are scheduled to be on hand to discuss the area boundaries and proposed policies outlined in the plan.
