MOUNTAIN VIEW COUNTY - Council has approved the terms of reference for the Bergen area structure plan review, as well as terms of reference for the steering committee.
The move came by way of motion at the Dec. 11 regularly scheduled council meeting.
The original ASP for the district was approved in 2015. It is a policy document that guides future redesignation, subdivision and development lands within the ASP area.
The plan is being updated to reflect several developments, including the recent approval of the Upper Red Deer River Hazard Study and recent updates to the Municipal Government Act.
Council has approved a budget of $5,000 for the review.
For the purpose of providing a framework for subsequent subdivision and development of an area of land, the plan must, in part, describe the sequence of development proposed for the area, and the uses proposed for the area, either generally or with respect to specific parts of the area.
The review will look at ASP compliance with the municipal development plan, and review changes in land use and development as well as population growth since the original adoption of the ASP to determine appropriate subdivision potential and densities for residential, recreational and other uses.
Council will be responsible for the approve of the ASP bylaw after a public hearing.
The steering committee will consist of seven members: three councillors, one member of the Bergen Community Association and three public members form the Bergen area structure plan area.
The responsibilities of the steering committee include providing a “broad policy direction and assist in identifying issues and opportunities with respect to key review topics, participate in any community consultation and engagement, and direct administration to draft ASP policies.”
After the initial meeting of the steering committee, a public consultation will be undertaken to gather public input.
Council approved a motion put forward by Coun. Peggy Johnson that consultation be undertaken at an early stage of the process to engage the public within the area structure plan boundaries to ask them what is of key importance to them.
Other scope of work for the committee include steering committee meetings, preparation of a draft the ASP for review by the committee, and public review of the draft ASP.
The complete terms of reference for the ASP review and the steering committee are available for viewing on the county’s website.
The appointment of steering committee members is expected in January, with the complete review schedule to be completed by August 2026.
Council carried a follow-up motion that public members of the committee be paid per diem.
“I think their time is valuable,” said reeve Angela Aalbers.
