Mediation over the Wind Walk Development between the Town of Okotoks and Foothills MD broke down and the two will take their dispute over the plan to the provincial government.
The two municipalities were not able to reach an agreement over the Mike Holmes development after exploring different options during a series of meetings.
Okotoks’ municipal planning manager Steve Hanhart would not comment on the mediation meetings and why the process was unsuccessful because all discussions are covered by a confidentiality agreement.
“The mediation discussions remain confidential, so we’re not in a position where we can share any of the details,” he said. “At the end of the day, there’s not a lot we can share.”
The matter will now be up to the Municipal Government Board to resolve. A hearing has not been scheduled at this time.
Wind Walk is proposed for a 145-acre parcel of land just outside Okotoks’ south border across Highway 7 from the Cornerstone area. Plans for the area include 457 single family and multi-family homes and commercial space. The project includes cutting edge environmental technologies intended to reduce energy and water consumption.
MD council approved third reading of the development plan in August and town council voted soon after to appeal the decision to the Municipal Government Board.
(SO THEY DECIDED TO GO TO MEDIATION BEFORE THE MGB OR DID THE PRVINCE MANDATE THE MEDIATION?)
MD council’s decision only allows the first phase to proceed using ground water. Other sources must be secured for the second and third phase.
The Town has a list of concerns with the development including its impact on groundwater, runoff coming into the town and increased use of Okotoks roads and facilities such as the library and recreation centre from future Wind Walk residents.
