The open house held on June 10, 2014, to discuss the Highland Estates Structure Plan, and rezoning of land from Agriculture to Country Residential, had an impressive turnout with 15 land owners signing in

The evening began with a presentation by Ron Hall, on the Highland Estates Structure plan, including key features such as phases of development, environmental management and lot specifications. Mr. Hall also addressed concerns identified through previous open houses and consultations with nearby landowners in 2011-2013. Issues of concern that were addressed included wild fire, off site drainage, oil well safety, land use conflicts, environmental concerns, sustainability and the quality of the development.

After the presentation by Mr. Hall, there was a short discussion by James Haney, a planner from Municipal Affairs, who established that the Area Structure Plan as presented was acceptable according to the MGA, and that Municipal Affairs had no problems with the project or with the rezoning of the land from Agriculture to Country Residential.

Land owners who had submitted letters were then invited to speak and present concerns that they felt hadn’t yet been addressed. A question and answer period followed.

Lamont County Council will be taking both presentations, as well as the letters of concern and all speaking points made during the open house under consideration, for further discussion of the Highland Estates Structure plan at the next Council meeting held August 12, 2014.