Cochrane public meetings in 2022
49 substantive meetings from 2022, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Subdivision and Development Appeal Board - Re-convene Hearing 22-008
The Subdivision and Development Appeal Board is reconvening a hearing regarding a development permit for automotive service and drive-through services. The board will review an appeal filed by an adjacent landowner against the previous approval of the project.
- Hearing for DP2022-044 at 116 Grande Boulevard
- Proposed Automotive Service & Drive Through Services
- Re-convene Hearing 22-008
Regular Council
Council is considering a land use amendment for Greystone Phase 4 to allow commercial, multi-family, and park developments. The meeting also includes the approval of the 2023-2025 budget and appointments for the Cochrane Crossing Civic Plaza Art Task Force.
- Bylaw 19/2022: Greystone Phase 4 Land Use Amendment
- Greystone Area C Neighbourhood Plan Amendment
- 2023 - 2025 Budget Approval
- Cochrane Crossing Civic Plaza Art Task Force Appointments
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is reviewing an updated 2023-2025 budget that proposes a 3.7% property tax increase for 2023. Members are also discussing the formation of a budget process task force and reviewing the 2022 RCMP annual report.
- Proposed 3.7% property tax increase for 2023 following budget amendments
- 2022 RCMP annual report detailing 333 total persons crimes and 707 property crimes
- Proposal to strike a Budget Process Task Force to review governance and public engagement
- Alberta Health Services EMS update regarding emergency medical service response times
- Discussion of 2023-2025 capital budget including Horse Creek Sports Park Servicing
Subdivision & Development Appeal Board - Hearing 22-009
The Subdivision & Development Appeal Board is hearing an appeal regarding a development permit for 33 semi-detached and single detached dwellings. An adjacent landowner is appealing the decision, citing concerns over privacy, safety, and neighborhood compatibility.
- Appeal of DP2022-067 for 33 units at 297 Riviera Way
- Proposed development of semi-detached and single detached dwellings
- Landowner concerns regarding a 6ft+ retaining wall and privacy fences
- Dispute over the inclusion of a previously planned pathway
- Review of compliance with Land Use Bylaw 01/2022
Regular Council
The Council is reviewing Bylaw 11/2022, which updates design guidelines to integrate Western Heritage into the Town's Land Use Bylaw. The framework establishes design objectives for the Old Town, Railway Transition Zone, and Cochrane's Corridors to balance contemporary needs with local identity.
- Bylaw 11/2022: Western Heritage Design Framework
- Bylaw 17/2022: Greystone Phase 5 Land Use Amendment
- Rocky View County Recreation Cost Sharing Agreement
- 2022 Fire Engine Replacement Capital Project
- 4th Ave Wall Enhancement public engagement
Special Council
Council is meeting to discuss and debate the proposed 2023-2025 draft budget. This session follows previous meetings regarding the operating and capital budgets. The discussion includes reviewing the operating budget, capital budget, and service fees.
- Discussion and debate of the 2023-2025 Draft Budget
- Motion to temporarily suspend Sections 4.2(c) and 10 of Procedural Bylaw 19/2019
Calgary Metropolitan Regional Board
The Calgary Metropolitan Regional Board will meet to decide on the 2023 budget and a cost of living salary increase. The Board will also consider an application for the Foothills Crossing ASP in Foothills County and approve a new interpretation guide for the Regional Evaluation Framework.
- Decision on Foothills County REF Application 2022-08 (Foothills Crossing ASP)
- Approval of the Regional Evaluation Framework Interpretation Guide
- Approval of the 2023 CMRB Budget
- Approval of the 2022 Cost of Living Allowance Salary Increase
- Closed session discussion regarding meeting with Metis Nation of Alberta Region 3
Special Council
Council is meeting to review and debate the proposed 2023-2025 draft budget. This session focuses on the capital budget, the ten-year strategy, and service fees. The deliberations are part of a series of special meetings scheduled throughout November 2022.
- Introduction of the Capital Budget
- Review of the Ten Year Strategy
- Review and discussion of Service Fees
- Motion to temporarily suspend Procedural Bylaw 19/2019
Special Council
Council is meeting to review and discuss the recommended 2023-2025 draft budget. This session focuses on the introduction and review of the operating budget. The budget process includes several scheduled special meetings throughout November.
- Introduction and review of the Operating Budget
- Proposed temporary suspension of Procedural Bylaw 19/2019 sections 4.2(c) and 10
- Review of the 2023-2025 Draft Budget
Regular Council
Council is reviewing a proposal to support the Indigenous Placemaking Initiative by providing space at 5211, 1st Street West. The recommendation includes a tiered funding model for the lease through 2025. The initiative aims to provide community educational programming and services focused on Truth and Reconciliation.
- Indigenous Placemaking Initiative space and funding proposal
- Proposed lease funding: 100% for 2023, 75% for 2024, and 50% for 2025
- Request for Council representation on the Indigenous Centre Board of Directors
- Bylaw 11/2022 - Western Heritage Design Framework (Public Hearing scheduled)
- Bylaw 17/2022 - Greystone Phase 5 Land Use Amendment (Public Hearing scheduled)
Public Hearing
The Town of Cochrane is holding a public hearing for Bylaw 11/2022 to update its Western Heritage Design Guidelines. The proposed framework will integrate heritage design into the development permit process for non-residential projects in three specific character areas.
- Bylaw 11/2022: Western Heritage Design Framework update
- Bylaw 17/2022: Greystone Phase 5 Land Use Amendment
- Proposed 2% construction cost minimum for onsite heritage interpretation in Cochrane’s Corridors
- Design objectives for Old Town, Railway Transition Zone, and Cochrane’s Corridors
Special Council
This special meeting is scheduled for information purposes only. Council will meet in a closed session to receive advice from officials regarding pending policies, plans, or projects.
- In Camera session regarding advice from officials
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole reviewed a proposed recreation services agreement between the Town of Cochrane and Rocky View County. The agreement outlines a hybrid funding model for operating costs through 2028. The committee received reports on major capital projects, financial updates, and a potential inclusive sports court proposal.
- Proposed Rocky View County recreation contribution of $100 per household (2023-2025)
- Deduction of $40,980 debenture payment from the 2023 County contribution
- Canadian Tire Jumpstart proposal for an inclusive multi-surface sports court
- Third Quarter 2022 Financial Report update
- Major Capital Projects Fall 2022 update
Regular Council
Council is reviewing Bylaw 11/2022 to integrate a new Western Heritage Design Framework into the Land Use Bylaw. The framework establishes design objectives for the Old Town, Railway Transition Zone, and Cochrane’s Corridors to balance contemporary needs with local heritage. A public hearing for this bylaw is proposed for November 14, 2022.
- Bylaw 11/2022: Western Heritage Design Framework
- Bylaw 17/2022: Greystone Phase 5 Land Use Amendment
- Bylaw 18/2022: Business Licence Bylaw Amendment
- 2023 - 2025 Draft Budget discussion
- Cochrane participation in Community Economic Development Initiative (CEDI)
Special Council
Council is meeting to appoint Deputy Mayors for upcoming rotations and select representatives for various committees and partnerships. The Deputy Mayor appointments propose a new four-month rotation schedule for Councillors Nagel, Reed, and Wilson.
- Deputy Mayor appointment: Councillor Nagel (Oct 25, 2022 – Feb 27, 2023)
- Deputy Mayor appointment: Councillor Reed (Feb 28, 2023 – June 26, 2023)
- Deputy Mayor appointment: Councillor Wilson (June 27, 2023 – Oct 23, 2023)
- Appointments to Cochrane Library Board, Planning Commission, and Emergency Management Committee
- Appointments to various partnerships including Calgary Metropolitan Region Board and Cochrane Tourism Association Board
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is reviewing the Seniors Property Tax Support Program due to rising demand and budget pressures. Members are also discussing proposed amendments to the Business License Bylaw to regulate short-term rentals.
- Review of Seniors Property Tax Support Program following a 50% increase in applicants
- Proposed $250,000 budget request for artistic enhancements to the 4th Avenue wall
- Proposed Business License Bylaw amendments regarding short-term rental definitions and safety rules
- Delegation from Bike Cochrane regarding trail stewardship and active transportation
- Discussion of the transition from Municipal Sustainability Initiative to Local Government Fiscal Framework
Regular Council
The Cochrane Council is reviewing a request to commit land for a new seniors lodge to replace Big Hill Lodge. They are also considering appointing members to an art task force and approving additional funding for aesthetic enhancements to the 4th Avenue retaining wall.
- Commitment of land to Rocky View Foundation for a new Seniors Lodge
- Appointment of up to four public-at-large members to the Cochrane Crossing Civic Plaza Art Task Force
- $250,000 budget increase request for 4th Avenue Wall Enhancement from reserves
- Adoption of the September 12, 2022, Regular Council Meeting minutes
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is reviewing the transition from the Municipal Sustainability Initiative to the Local Government Fiscal Framework. Members are also discussing a potential $250,000 budget request for artistic enhancements to the 4th Avenue retaining wall and receiving an update on the Cochrane West gravel pit application.
- BURNCO presentation regarding the Cochrane West gravel pit expansion
- Discussion on the Local Government Fiscal Framework and its impact on municipal funding
- Proposed $250,000 budget request for 4th Avenue wall artistic enhancements
- Review of the Western Heritage Design Framework
- In-camera sessions regarding advice from officials
Regular Council
Council will consider providing a letter of commitment for the Cochrane Age Friendly Program to address the growing senior population. They will also vote on appointing two public-at-large members to the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board.
- Cochrane Age Friendly Program commitment
- Subdivision and Development Appeal Board appointments
- In-camera session regarding advice from officials
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is reviewing a proposal to commit to an Age Friendly Community Plan to address the growing senior population. Members are also reviewing the Second Quarter 2022 financial report, which shows $12.3 million spent on capital projects.
- Discussion of Cochrane Age Friendly Program and potential letter of commitment
- Second Quarter 2022 financial report review
- $12.3 million total spent on 2022 capital projects
- $4.8 million spent on Highway 1A improvements
- $1.49 million spent on Station construction
Non Statutory Public Hearing
Council is holding a non-statutory public hearing to receive comments on proposed amendments to the Heritage Hills Stage 2 Neighbourhood Plan. The amendments, requested by the new landowner of an undeveloped acreage parcel, include shifting a road alignment, changing one block from townhomes to single/semi-detached housing, and updating mapping. No land use change is required, and after the hearing the plan will go to Council for final approval by resolution.
- Road alignment shift from Township Road 262 to the east, with lots backing onto the community park
- Housing type change in one block from townhomes to single/semi-detached
- Community density decreases from 7.9 to 7.7 units per acre
- Pathway re-alignment in the central park
- Four adjacent landowners raised concerns about townhomes, privacy, and property values
Regular Council
Council will consider adopting amendments to the Heritage Hills Stage 2 Neighbourhood Plan, including a road realignment and housing type change. They will also review a capital project request for "The Trail," a support request from Rocky View Foundation, and a Seniors Property Tax Support Program. The meeting includes adoption of previous minutes and in-camera sessions.
- Heritage Hills Stage 2 Neighbourhood Plan amendment: road shift from Township Road 262, townhomes to single/semi-detached, density from 7.9 to 7.7 units/acre
- "The Trail" Capital Project Request
- Rocky View Foundation Request for Support
- Seniors Property Tax Support Program
- 2022-2025 Cochrane Strategic Plan
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is meeting to receive information and discuss several items, including a delegation from Rocky View Foundation about affordable seniors' housing, a request to add 'The Trail' capital project to the 2022 budget, results of the 2023-2025 budget survey, and a lot area study for Bylaw 01/2022. No formal decisions are expected; most items are for information and will be brought to Council on July 11, 2022.
- Delegation from Rocky View Foundation seeking support for 60 affordable lodge units in Airdrie and new Big Hill Lodge in Cochrane
- Request to add 'The Trail' capital project (estimated $25,000,000) to 2022 Capital Budget, funded by donations and grants
- Budget survey results: 312 responses, majority satisfied with service levels, but 51% support tax increase to maintain services
- Lot Area Study for Bylaw 01/2022
- In-camera items under FOIP exceptions for advice from officials and legal privilege
Regular Council
Council will give second and third reading to Bylaw 14/2022, which would redesignate the Jones Estate (901 Highway 1A) from Urban Holdings to Direct Control 2 and Parks and Recreation districts, allowing up to 16 single-storey semi-detached homes. The agenda also includes a public hearing request for the Heritage Hills Stage 2 Neighbourhood Plan amendment, a report on the River Heights Reservoir and Pump Station expansion, and adoption of previous minutes.
- Bylaw 14/2022: Land Use Redesignation Glenvista Peak (16 dwelling units, 1-storey max)
- Bylaw 15/2022: Safety Codes Permit Bylaw
- Bylaw 16/2022: Procedural Bylaw Amendment
- Heritage Hills Stage 2 Neighbourhood Plan Amendment – Non-Statutory Public Hearing Request
- River Heights Reservoir and Pump Station Expansion: Phase 1A
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole will receive an update on the Safety Codes section, including permit and revenue trends, and discuss a new Safety Codes Permit Bylaw (15/2022) that simplifies and updates permit regulations. They will also consider creating a task force to oversee art installation at the Cochrane Crossing Civic Plaza, funded by federal grants. The meeting includes adoption of previous minutes and an in-camera session.
- Safety Codes Section Update: history, new structure, permit/revenue trends, and introduction of Bylaw 15/2022
- Bylaw 15/2022: Safety Codes Permit Bylaw, replacing Bylaw 22/2003, sets permit fees and processes
- Cochrane Crossing Civic Plaza Art Task Force: proposed advisory body for art installation
- $750,000 federal funding (CCRF) for plaza, with $525,000 for art installation
- Adoption of May 16, 2022 Committee of the Whole minutes
Regular Council
Council will consider approving the schedule for developing the 2023-2025 operating and capital budgets, including dates for public input and debate. A notice of motion asks administration to report on the Seniors Property Tax Support Program and the impact of raising the rebate by $250. The agenda also includes adoption of previous minutes and a closed session for advice from officials.
- Approval of 2023-2025 Budget Process schedule, with budget debate Nov 15, 16, 21, 24 and adoption Dec 12
- Notice of Motion to increase Seniors Property Tax Support rebate by $250 (from $500 to $750)
- Adoption of May 24, 2022 Regular Council minutes
- In-camera session under FOIP Section 24(1)(g) for advice from officials
Public Hearing
Council is holding a public hearing on Bylaw 14/2022, which would redesignate the Glenvista Peak property (901 Highway 1A) from Urban Holdings to Direct Control 2 and Parks and Recreation districts, allowing up to 16 single-storey semi-detached homes. The proposal has drawn opposition from residents, with 62 submissions received, all against the redesignation except from the applicant's counsel.
- Bylaw 14/2022: Land Use Redesignation of Glenvista Peak (901 Highway 1A) from Urban Holdings to Direct Control 2 and Parks and Recreation
- Proposed 16 single-storey semi-detached dwelling units on 0.9 hectares (2.22 acres)
- 0.76 hectares (1.88 acres) to be designated Parks and Recreation for Environmental Reserve and Open Space
- Density of 14.8 units per gross developable hectare, below MDP minimum of 19.8
- 62 public submissions received, all opposed except applicant's counsel
Regular Council
Council will give first reading to Bylaw 14/2022, which would redesignate the Glenvista Peak property (901 Highway 1A) from Urban Holdings to Direct Control 2 and Parks and Recreation districts, allowing up to 16 single or semi-detached dwellings. A public hearing is scheduled for June 6, 2022. Council will also consider property tax adjustments for Vantage Land Corporation and John Robinson, an Arbor Day proclamation, and an Area Structure Plan feasibility report.
- Bylaw 14/2022: Land use redesignation for Glenvista Peak (901 Highway 1A) to allow 16 residential units
- Property tax adjustment for Vantage Land Corporation
- Property tax adjustment for John Robinson
- Arbor Day proclamation and official tree declaration
- Area Structure Plan feasibility report
Committee of the Whole
The Cochrane Committee of the Whole will hear a delegation from the Cochrane Tourism Association, review the First Quarter 2022 Financial Report, and discuss the 2022-2025 Cochrane Strategic Plan. The financial report shows 23.5% of budgeted operational costs incurred and $5.2M spent on capital projects, with most major construction starting in Q2. The meeting also includes adoption of previous minutes and an in-camera session.
- Q1 2022 financial report: $5.2M capital spending, 82.6% on Protective Services Building and The Station
- Delegation from Cochrane Tourism Association on 2022 priorities and visitor economy
- 2022-2025 Cochrane Strategic Plan discussion
- Adoption of May 2, 2022 minutes
- In-camera session under FOIP Section 24(1)(g)
Regular Council
Cochrane Council will consider three tax rate bylaws for 2022, including the Annual Tax Rate Bylaw and two Community Revitalization Levy (CRL) bylaws. Council will also hear a delegation from the Rotary Club of Cochrane requesting a 5-year lease renewal for 521 1st St W to develop an Indigenous Innovation Centre, with the Town covering space costs. The agenda includes funding requests for data relocation and the Route 22 Artist Collective, plus a notice of motion to declare Arbor Day.
- Bylaw 06/2022 Annual Tax Rate Bylaw
- Bylaw 07/2022 Annual Community Revitalization Levy (CRL) Tax Rate Bylaw
- Bylaw 08/2022 Supplementary Community Revitalization Levy (CRL)
- Rotary Club delegation: request to renew lease for 521 1st St W for 5 years for Indigenous Innovation Centre
- Notice of Motion: Arbor Day & Official Tree Declaration
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is meeting to receive updates on major capital projects and to discuss the 2022 property tax rates. They will also hear delegations from the Humane Society, Youth Justice Committee, and Route 22 Collective Gallery, and consider adopting previous minutes.
- 2022 Property Tax Rates discussion
- 2022 Major Capital Projects Update, including Highway 1A Improvement Phase 2 ($11.4M budget), Highway 1A/22 Utility Relocates ($7.6M), The Station & Crossing ($8M), Protective Services Building ($27.7M), and 4th Avenue Bridge Replacement
- Delegation from Cochrane & Area Humane Society for annual review
- Delegation from Cochrane and District Youth Justice Committee for 25th anniversary update
- Delegation from Route 22 Collective Gallery requesting short-term funding
Regular Council
Cochrane Council will consider second and third readings of Bylaws 12/2022 and 13/2022, which would rezone former gravel extraction lands in Greystone for residential, commercial, and park uses. The meeting also includes adoption of minutes, a neighbourhood plan amendment, a request to proceed with whistle cessation, and financial reports. Public hearings for the bylaws and neighbourhood plan are scheduled for the same meeting.
- Bylaw 12/2022: Rezone ~8.3 acres from Special Industrial to Residential Low Density, ~6.5 acres to Residential Mixed, ~1.6 acres to Parks and Recreation in Greystone Phase 2
- Bylaw 13/2022: Rezone ~5 acres from Special Industrial to Residential High Density and ~3 acres to General Commercial in Greystone Phase 3
- Greystone Area C Neighbourhood Plan Amendment to align with Phase 2 land use changes
- Request to Proceed with Whistle Cessation
- 2021 Audited Financial Statements and Audit Findings; Fourth Quarter 2021 Financial Report
Non Statutory Public Hearing
Council is holding a non-statutory public hearing to receive comments on proposed amendments to the Greystone Area C Neighbourhood Plan. The amendments include minor changes to housing types, density, phasing, a road cross-section, and land use districts. The developer has completed remediation of the former gravel pit lands and received approvals from Alberta Environment.
- Housing type changes in first phase: three areas from single to semi-detached, one from semi to single detached
- Density increase from 20 to 21.3 units per hectare (8.1 to 8.6 units per acre), adding 25 units community-wide
- Updated phasing plan, with residential lands abutting Spray Lakes Sawmill kept as last phase
- River Avenue cross-section updated to avoid widening asphalt north of Riverview Drive
- Pedestrian walkway relocated approximately 100 metres south to align with water service connection
Public Hearing
This is a public hearing where Cochrane Council will receive and consider comments on two proposed land use amendments for the former gravel pit lands in Greystone. Bylaw 12/2022 would rezone about 16.4 acres from Special Industrial to residential and park uses, enabling 129 housing units. Bylaw 13/2022 would rezone about 8 acres from Special Industrial to high-density residential and commercial uses. No decisions are made at this hearing; Council will consider the input before voting on the bylaws.
- Bylaw 12/2022: Rezone ~8.3 acres to Residential Low Density, ~6.5 acres to Residential Mixed, ~1.6 acres to Parks & Recreation (410 River Avenue)
- Bylaw 12/2022: Proposes 68 single-detached and 61 semi-detached units in Greystone Phase 2
- Bylaw 13/2022: Rezone ~5 acres to Residential High Density (R-HD) and ~3 acres to General Commercial (C-G)
- Bylaw 13/2022: High-density parcel allows 142–225 units, up to 303 with underground parking
- Both amendments require changes to the Greystone Area C Neighbourhood Plan
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole will hear presentations from the Bighill Creek Preservation Society and the Rotary Club's Great Trail Project, and receive an update on programming for The Station transit hub. The agenda also includes adoption of previous minutes and an in-camera session for advice from officials.
- Delegation from Bighill Creek Preservation Society on gravel mine risks to Big Hill Springs Provincial Park
- Delegation from Rotary Club on completing the Trans Canada Trail between Calgary and Cochrane
- The Station programming update: transit hub, info centre, payment services, innovation space
- Adoption of minutes from March 21, 2022 Committee of the Whole meeting
- In-camera session under FOIP Section 24(1)(g) for advice from officials
Regular Council
Cochrane Council will consider first readings for two bylaws that would rezone portions of the former Greystone gravel pit for residential and commercial development. The meeting also includes adoption of previous minutes and a proposed amendment to the Greystone Area C Neighbourhood Plan.
- Bylaw 12/2022: Rezone ~8.3 acres from Special Industrial to Residential Low Density, ~6.5 acres to Residential Mixed, ~1.6 acres to Parks and Recreation in Greystone Phase 2.
- Bylaw 13/2022: Rezone ~5 acres from Special Industrial to Residential High Density and ~3 acres to General Commercial in Greystone Phase 3.
- Public hearings for both bylaws scheduled for April 25, 2022 at 5:30 PM.
- Greystone Area C Neighbourhood Plan amendment to align with Phase 2 land use changes.
- Adoption of minutes from March 28, 2022 Public Hearing and Regular Council Meeting.
Public Hearing
Cochrane Council is holding a public hearing to receive comments on two proposed land-use bylaw amendments. Bylaw 02/2022 would rezone 1.44 acres in Willows West from business-industrial and urban holdings to residential mix to allow remaining residential development. Bylaw 10/2022 would rezone 7.53 acres in Greystone from special industrial to general commercial to facilitate future commercial development on a former gravel pit. Council is only receiving and considering comments at this hearing; no final decision is being made.
- Bylaw 02/2022: rezone 1.44 acres in Willows West (Plan 7510193, Block 5, 41257 Willow Park) from I-B/UH to R-MX
- Bylaw 10/2022: rezone 7.53 acres in Greystone (portion of Plan 811 1002, Block 2, 565 Griffin Road East) from I-S to C-G
- Both bylaws amend the new Land Use Bylaw 01/2022
- ATCO Pipelines and Altalink submitted requirements for Willows West development, to be addressed at subdivision stage
- No concerns received from referrals on the Greystone commercial amendment
Regular Council
Council will consider giving second and third reading to two land use amendment bylaws: Bylaw 02/2022 for Willows West and Bylaw 10/2022 for Greystone Phase 1A. Both bylaws have already received first reading and a public hearing. The meeting also includes adoption of minutes and a request to support an Active Transportation Fund application.
- Bylaw 02/2022: Rezone 1.44 acres in Willows West from Business Industrial (I-B) and Urban Holdings (UH) to Residential Mix (R-MX) to facilitate residential development.
- Bylaw 10/2022: Rezone 7.53 acres in Greystone Phase 1A from Special Industrial (I-S) to General Commercial (C-G) to allow commercial development.
- Active Transportation Fund (ATF) Application Support - item 6a
- Adoption of minutes from March 14, 2022 Regular Council Meeting
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole will discuss the Western Heritage Design Framework, an update to the 2000 guidelines, which will guide non-residential design in three character areas and be incorporated into the Land Use Bylaw. They will also hear a presentation from RancheView School Grade 6 students proposing tree-planting, declaring the White Spruce as the official tree, and establishing an Arbor Day. The 2021 Development Summary Report and an Active Transportation Fund application are also on the agenda.
- Western Heritage Design Framework update for Old Town, Railway Transition Zone, and Cochrane's Corridors
- RancheView School Grade 6 presentation proposing tree planting, White Spruce as official tree, and Arbor Day
- 2021 Development Summary Report
- Active Transportation Fund (ATF) application
- Adoption of February 22, 2022 Committee of the Whole minutes
Regular Council
At this regular meeting, Cochrane Council will consider second and third reading of a borrowing bylaw for the Centre Avenue and Highway 1A Improvements Phase 2 project, which has a total budget of $11.4 million. They will also give readings to two land use amendments: one for Willows West (rezoning 1.44 acres from industrial to residential mix) and one for Greystone Phase 1A. Updates on the new Protective Services Building and the Centre Avenue/Highway 1A budget are also on the agenda.
- Bylaw 03/2022: Borrow $8,240,000 for Centre Avenue and Highway 1A Improvements Phase 2 (total project cost $11,400,000)
- Bylaw 02/2022: Rezone 1.44 acres in Willows West from Business Industrial/Urban Holdings to Residential Mix
- Bylaw 10/2022: Greystone Phase 1A Land Use Amendment (first reading)
- New Protective Services Building update
- Centre Avenue / Highway 1A Phase 2 budget update
Regular Council
Council will consider adopting Bylaw 01/2022, a new comprehensive Land Use Bylaw replacing the 2004 version, following a public hearing where several residents and businesses spoke in favor. The agenda also includes grant funding recommendations for FCSS and United Way partnerships, a Parks & Recreation work plan, and routine adoption of minutes. The meeting includes an in-camera session for matters related to personal privacy.
- Bylaw 01/2022 Land Use Bylaw adoption
- Cochrane FCSS Advisory Board & United Way 2022 Partnership Grant Funding Recommendations
- Parks & Recreation Committee 2022 Work Plan
- Adoption of minutes from February 14, 2022 Public Hearing and Regular Meeting
- In-camera session under FOIP Section 17(4)(f)
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole will receive presentations on COLT's first two years of service and a request from ASH Canada to expand smoke-free public spaces. Council will also review the Parks & Recreation Committee's 2022 work plan and adopt previous minutes. No final decisions are expected; most items are for information or future consideration.
- ASH Canada requests amendments to Cochrane Smoking Bylaw to create more smoke-free public spaces
- COLT service update: 65,000 passengers in first two years, under budget both years
- Parks & Recreation Committee 2022 work plan focuses on Recreation Master Plan data
- Adoption of February 7, 2022 Committee of the Whole minutes
Regular Council
Council will consider first reading of Bylaw 03/2022, which authorizes borrowing up to $8.24 million for the Centre Avenue and Highway 1A Improvements Phase 2 project. The project is estimated to cost $10.3 million, funded 80% from debt and 20% from a federal grant. The agenda also includes adoption of previous minutes, a proclamation for Freedom to Read Week, and two in-camera sessions.
- First reading of Bylaw 03/2022: borrowing $8,240,000 for Centre Avenue and Highway 1A Improvements Phase 2 (widening to four lanes, Highway 1A and 4th Avenue work)
- Adoption of minutes from January 24, 2022 regular council meeting
- Proclamation of Freedom to Read Week (February 20-26, 2022)
- In-camera session under FOIP Section 24(1)(g) (advice from officials)
- In-camera session under FOIP Section 17(4)(f) (personnel matter)
Public Hearing
Council is holding a public hearing to receive comments on Bylaw 01/2022, a comprehensive rewrite of Cochrane's Land Use Bylaw. The new bylaw proposes to reduce land use districts from 22 to 16, modernize regulations, and streamline development approvals. This is part of Phase 5 of the review process, leading to potential adoption after three readings.
- Bylaw 01/2022 reduces land use districts from 22 to 16
- Removes parking stall minimums for non-residential uses, requiring applicants to justify proposed stalls
- Adds new land uses: temporary commercial services, breweries, wineries, distilleries, community gardens
- Streamlines development permits, allowing low-risk applications to proceed before appeal period ends
- Includes a specific Historic Downtown district and updates to Western Heritage Design guidelines
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole will hear a delegation from Alberta Health Services Emergency Medical Services about local EMS resources, call volumes, response times, and challenges. Council will also review the draft Land Use Bylaw 01/2022, which proposes to reduce districts from 22 to 16 and remove parking minimums for non-residential uses, and consider a land use amendment for Willows West.
- Delegation from AHS EMS on local ambulance service, response times, and challenges
- Bylaw 01/2022 Draft Land Use Bylaw: reduces districts from 22 to 16, removes non-residential parking minimums
- Bylaw 02/2022 Willows West Land Use Amendment
- Adoption of minutes from January 17, 2022 meeting
Regular Council
Council will consider first reading of Bylaw 01/2022, a comprehensive rewrite of the Land Use Bylaw, and set a public hearing for February 14, 2022. They will also consider amendments to borrowing bylaws for a new Protective Services Building and Highway 1A improvements, plus a procurement policy and a committee appointment.
- Bylaw 01/2022 Land Use Bylaw: First reading and public hearing set for Feb 14
- Bylaw 04/2022: Borrowing Bylaw Amendment for New Protective Services Building
- Bylaw 05/2022: Borrowing Bylaw Amendment for Highway 1A Improvements
- Procurement Policy #1709-01
- Indigenous Placemaking Initiative Committee Appointment
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole will review the 2022 assessment roll, which shows an average 8.73% increase in residential single-family assessments, and discuss a wholesale update to the procurement policy (renamed from Purchasing Policy) to align with trade agreements and raise approval limits. The meeting also includes adoption of previous minutes and an in-camera session.
- 2022 assessments: average residential single-family assessment $497,700, up 8.73% from 2021
- Procurement Policy #1709-01: proposed update to replace Purchasing Policy #1701-04, raising approval limits (e.g., manager/supervisor from $10,000 to $25,000)
- Assessment notices to be mailed January 21, 2022
- Adoption of minutes from December 6, 2021 Committee of the Whole meeting
- In-camera session scheduled
Public Hearing
The Town of Cochrane is holding a public hearing to consider Bylaw 11/2021, which would redesignate a parcel at 45B Willow Close from Public Service District (PS) to Residential Single and Two Dwelling District (R-2). The property, formerly a public utility lot used for snow storage, was sold for no less than market value, and the redesignation aligns its land use with the adjacent lot. Council will receive and consider comments from the public before deciding on the bylaw.
- Bylaw 11/2021: redesignates Lot 3PUL, Block 9, Plan 131 1688 (45B Willow Close) from PS to R-2
- Property sold for no less than market value; redesignation required within six months of sale
- Public hearing advertised in newspaper on Dec 30, 2021 and Jan 6, 2022
- One email received from nearby landowner concerned about sale and advertising process
- No additional financial implications beyond staff time
Regular Council
Council will consider second and third reading of Bylaw 11/2021 to redesignate a parcel at 45B Willows Close from Public Service District to Residential Single and Two Dwelling District, following a public hearing. Council will also appoint public-at-large members to several boards and committees. The agenda includes adoption of minutes and an in-camera session on legal privilege.
- Bylaw 11/2021: redesignate Lot 3PUL, Block 9, Plan 131 1688 (45B Willows Close) from PS to R-2
- Appoint up to 4 members to Assessment Review Board, 3 to Cochrane Library Board, 1 to Planning Commission, 2 to FCSS Advisory Board, 3 to Subdivision and Development Appeal Board
- Adoption of December 13, 2021 regular meeting minutes
- In-camera session under FOIP Section 27(1)(a) for legal privilege