Pipestone Flyer
The Town of Devon is one step closer to annexing a parcel of Leduc County land along the town’s eastern border to the North Saskatchewan River now that County councillors approved the annexation report and agreement Oct. 7.
“It’s good for the region,” said Division 3 Councillor John Schonewille.
The 272-hectare parcel is primarily agriculture and runs east along the ravine, neighbouring properties that the City of Edmonton is looking at.
While there are plans to develop the area to accommodate Devon’s growing population, setbacks, an Environmental Reserve and area walking trails in the community will limit the extent of future residential development.
“This has been quite a long process,” said Devon Mayor Stephen Lindop, who was at the council meeting. “We’d like to thank you for being such good neighbours.”
Under the agreement, County residents whose property will be included in the annexation will not see their tax rates change, unless they develop their property further.
County residents will continue to be taxed at County rates for 15 years. If they develop the property, they will be assessed at the Town’s rates.
Council gave approval to the report and annexation request, noting this annexation has been a collaborative effort.
“This is the way it should be done,” said Deputy Mayor Clay Stumph. “It’s been a smooth process. At times we didn’t agree but we were able to work together.”
The agreement will now be forwarded to Alberta’s Municipal Government Board for consideration.