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Crowsnest Pass
Herald Serving our communities since 1930
Insights from Northback Grassy Mountain tour NICHOLAS L.M. ALLEN Pass Herald Reporter Northback, which is focused on the development of the Grassy Mountain steel-making coal project in Canada is providing tours of the site found just north of the Crowsnest Pass. The Grassy Mountain site, a key area of interest for both environmental and industrial stakeholders, was the focus of a recent tour on July 10 aimed at shedding light on current and future plans for the region. Representatives from the site provided an overview of ongoing activities, historical significance and environmental considerations affecting the area. The Grassy Mountain project is located on unrestored land that was mined over 60 years ago. The area is now a proposed high-quality, modern steelmaking coal project that will be reclaimed during the lifetime of the project according to the company. During the tour, it was noted that the site houses historical underground mine systems and buildings, some of which are in good condition. Efforts are underway to maintain and repurpose these structures, ensuring their historical value is preserved. Stories and more photos cont’d on page 4
Vol. 94 No. 28 July 17, 2024 $1.25
8 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - Wednesday, July 17, 2024
Crowsnest Pass Municipal Council briefs NICHOLAS L.M. ALLEN Pass Herald Reporter
Municipality of Crowsnest Pass council moves forward with road closure by-laws for residential development In a recent council meeting of the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass, significant steps were taken towards the closure of road allowances to facilitate the construction of new residences in Bellevue. The council, which began the process back in the summer of 2022, deliberated extensively on Bylaw 1124 and Bylaw 1161, aimed at aligning road closures necessary for the development. The proposed road closure pertains to a portion of road allowance crucial for the construction of two new residential properties. This move is part of a broader effort to enhance residential infrastructure in the area, accommodating growing demand and urban expansion in Bellevue. During the council session, concerns were raised regarding utility access and easement agreements. Council members ensured that any potential impact on existing utilities and services was mitigated through comprehensive easement agreements with adjacent property owners. This included provisions for the protection and maintenance of essential services to adjacent lots, ensuring that any construction activities would not hinder utility access for residents. Council deliberations also addressed community concerns regarding access routes and traffic implications stemming from the road closure. It was clarified that access to residential properties and existing routes, such as the popular trail for recreational users, would not be affected adversely by the closures. The council proceeded with the approval for the second and third readings of Bylaw 1124 and Bylaw 1161. The next steps involve finalizing legal agreements and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements before the commencement of construction on the new residential properties.
The council provided an update on adjustments made to the municipality’s tax payment plan, expanding options beyond the previous monthly payments to include biweekly installments. This move aims to offer residents more flexibility in managing their tax obligations while aligning with community feedback and enhancing administrative processes. Council members, during the discussion, highlighted the importance of accommodating diverse financial schedules among residents, thereby ensuring greater accessibility to tax payments without financial strain. Another focal point of the council meeting was the rezoning proposal for a parcel of land from traditional to tourism accommodation in the Crowsnest Pass district. The rezoning aims to facilitate the development of a tourism-focused resort accommodation, potentially including six cabins initially with the possibility of additional units in the future. Council deliberations included considerations on the impact of rezoning on local infra structure and community dynamics, with assurances from developers regarding adherence to environmental standards and off-site parking provisions. Concerns were also raised about maintaining open recreational spaces amidst the development. The council proceeded with the first reading of Bylaw 1197-2024, initiating the formal process of rezoning, with further discussions anticipated to address community concerns and refine development plans. In response to recent security concerns, the council also discussed upgrading security measures at local fire stations. The proposed upgrades include installing electronic key access systems to enhance security and control access more effectively across all stations. This decision follows incidents that highlighted vulnerabilities in current security measures. The council approved $14,000 in funding from facility reserves for the initial phase of up-grades, with plans to implement similar measures in other municipal facilities in the future. In addition to legislative matters, council members shared updates on community engagement and recent events, including participation in local festivals and parades. Discussions highlighted the positive community response to municipal initiatives and underscored on-going efforts to foster community spirit and participation. For more information on bylaws and their implications, residents are encouraged to visit the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass website or attend future council meetings for updates and discussions on local initiatives.
We are upgrading electricity distribution service in your area. FortisAlberta, your electricity distribution provider, will soon begin Stage Two, Section A, of electricity distribution upgrades in the Coleman community.
When: • August - December, 2024 Where: West of 81st Street to 76th Street, between 19th Avenue and 24th Avenue We would like to thank you for your patience throughout this project. We’re proud to work in your community to establish a safer and more reliable electrical distribution system for all those who call Coleman home. For project details, scan this code or visit us online at fortisalberta.com/ColemanSystemUpgrade. Follow us on:
310-WIRE (9473)
Wednesday, July 17, 2023 - CROWSNEST PASS HERALD - 9
Skateboard Park getting closer to a reality NICHOLAS L.M. ALLEN Pass Herald Reporter
New skate park for Crowsnest Pass entering funding stages after design work has completed In a presentation to the Crowsnest Pass Municipality, the Southwest Alberta Skateboard Society (SWASS) made a case for funding the new skateboard park in the area. Led by Rob MacGarver, president of SWASS, the society laid out ambitious plans to rejuvenate recreational opportunities for local youth. The proposed site, Flumerfelt Park, was highlighted as the focal point for this exciting initiative, aiming to cater not only to skateboarders but also to enthusiasts of scooters and bikes. The presentation showcased the developmental journey of the Crowsnest Pass
Skate Park project. Currently in phase two, which includes finalizing designs and budget planning, SWASS emphasized their progress and the critical next steps required for implementation. “We’ve already invested significantly,” MacGarver explained, referring to the detailed de-signs by New Line Construction and supportive community donations from businesses like North Bank and Davis Dodge. These efforts have culminated in a request for a $400,000 contribution from the municipality to kickstart construction. Council deliberations pivoted on funding logistics, with discussions extending to potential grants and leveraging existing reserves dedicated to recreation facilities. Councillor Lisa Sygutek voiced strong support, advocating for tapping into reserves earmarked for future projects like a fieldhouse, underscoring the societal benefit of investing in youth-centric initiatives. “The success of this project completely hinges on the Council’s support,” MacGarver emphasized. He acknowledged the financial commitment required but highlighting the longterm benefits for community youth. The timeline was set ambitiously for a spring 2025 construction start, pending Council’s resolution and additional funding confirmations. The meeting concluded with a consensus to provide essential letters of support and integrate project funding discussions into the upcoming budget session. As the meeting adjourned, the atmosphere resonated with optimism and commitment to-wards revitalizing recreational amenities in Crowsnest Pass, ensuring future generations have access to diverse, inclusive spaces for physical activity and community engagement.
Contributor photos
Artist rendition of the proposed site at Flumerfelt Park.