Annexation prepares town for long term expansion
The Provincial Government recently approved the annexation of land to the town of High River. The decision was effective on January 1st this year and means that approximately 1770 acres lying north and north west of the former town boundary are now within the town. This does not in any way affect the ownership of the land, it just means that the land now lies within the town as opposed to the MD.
The reason for the annexation was to allow for the long term expansion of the town within its boundaries. A lot of background research and public discussion preceded the two municipalities jointly requesting the Provincial Government allow the annexation. A public hearing took place in May 2011 where the application was explained in detail and where interested parties had an opportunity to present comments and concerns.
As part of the annexation process, the two municipalities came up with an agreement that lays out the various conditions that relate to the annexation. These conditions are intended to minimize the impact of the annexation on landowners within the area as well as on the two municipalities. Because the MD loses property tax revenue and the Town gains, a compensation package was negotiated that requires the Town to compensate the MD. To cushion the effect of changes in property taxes, landowners will continue to be taxed as if they were still in the MD.
The Town has started work on a plan for the newly annexed area, called the Growth Management Strategy. This plan, when completed, will lay out a vision for the annexation area for the next 30 years or so. Anyone wishing any information on this process, is invited to visit www.highriver.ca and click on "Public Forum" or contact Khalid Mohammed at the Town at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 403 603 3421.
Click Here for more information on the Growth Management Strategy.
