Wednesday, April 1, 2026

IN THE NEWS

By Marianne Cole

MDP Review   A review of Section 10, Subdivision of Land is currently underway.   
At their February 24, 2026 meeting, County Council granted First Reading to amend specific clauses in this section of the Municipal Development Plan and proceed to a Public Hearing.  The most concerning clauses deal with:
  • Clause 10.2.2, the number of residential subdivisions off a quarter.   The proposed new clause states, “Clearwater County may approve one additional subdivision in a quarter section for a residential parcel from the largest agricultural parcel within a previously subdivided quarter section that does not already contain a residential subdivision.” (Underlining for emphasis, not part of the clause.)  
  • Clause 10.2.3 re fragmented parcel. This clause re-instates the option of allowing an additional subdivision on a fragmented parcel.  It was taken out of the 2023 MDP.
  • Deletion of Clause 10.2.8, re small agricultural operations on residential parcels.   The current clause allows for small agricultural holdings as a discretionary use in Country Residential Agriculture (CRA) districts.  Its removal brings up a concern that such activities may not be allowed.

For more information and a complete comparison of current and proposed clauses you can google Clearwater County Taxpayers’ Association, go on the County’s website, or call the county’s Planning Department to request a copy of the current clauses and their proposed changes.

Above all, it is absolutely crucial that the voice of the people is heard on this matter.  We encourage you to attend the Public Hearing on April 14, 2026 at 10:00AM at Council Chambers in Rocky.


Area Structure Plan Reviews  

  •   As you may, or may not, have seen in last week’s Western Star, the ASP’s for the Alexo-Saunders and Whitegoat Lakes (Lake Abraham) areas are again being reviewed.  These documents were recently reviewed and adopted in July of 2025 by our previous council.

Concern has since arisen regarding a lack of public engagement during that review.  People are particularly concerned about the possible increase in proposed/potential “facility cells”.  These are “land areas suitable for commercial recreation development in the form of fixed roof accommodations and campgrounds as well as related commercial facilities and public services.”

People are concerned that this could result in a significant increase in tourist traffic and its resulting impact on public services such as waste/garbage disposal, fire protection, first responder attendance, and policing.  Above all, they are concerned about environmental impacts along with their ability to enjoy a pristine mountain area.

As per information in last week’s Western Star, public engagement meetings are planned for:  

Caroline Hub, Tuesday, March 31; Condor Community Hall,Wednesday, April 1; Rocky Rec. Center, Subway Room, April 7 and Nordegg Community Hall, April 10.  All meetings are at 3:00 – 5:00PM and 6:00-8:00PM at each location.  There is also a virtual meeting on Wednesday, April 8 at 6:00-8:00PM with pre-registration required.

Once again, special kudos to our current Council for their desire to hear from their residents and address their concerns. 

We encourage you to contact them with your opinions and above all, attend one of the above meetings on this matter.  


April Guest Speakers   

  • Mark Dorin, a lawyer from Red Deer and a strong advocate for landowner rights, along with MLA Jason Nixon, will be guest speakers at the monthly CCTA meeting on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at 7:30PM at the Leslieville Elks Hall.  They will be addressing Alberta’s Mature Asset Strategy along with other matters related to the oil/gas industry that impact landowner rights. Please come to hear their information, ask questions, and express your opinion.

Up-coming Meetings: 


Wednesday, April 8, 2026 and Wednesday, May 13, 2026.  Both meetings at 7:30 PM at the Leslieville Elks Hall.


 “If you see a rabbit laying little brown eggs, don’t eat them.  They aren’t chocolate.”  Unknown.

“Easter is the only time of the year it’s safe to put all your eggs in one basket.”  Evan Esar