On Monday afternoon Okotoks council took a definitive step forward, agreeing to proceed with an application to annex enough land for 30 years of growth.
It was a long-awaited decision, but some members of council are stating this will mean uncontrollable growth for Okotoks.
Coun. Laurie Hodson, who voted against the motion, said it is a “dark day for Okotoks” and it would mean “unfettered” growth for the Town.
On the contrary, by annexing additional lands on its borders Okotoks will have control over such growth.
Had council not agreed to proceed with annexation the MD of Foothills, which has stated it wants to push new development where development already exists, would have had the ultimate say on development around Okotoks.
Should annexation be approved Okotoks will have control of those lands and it can choose to grow as quickly or as slowly as it wishes.
Just because the land is available does not mean it will be developed today or even tomorrow.
There are still a number of issues which need to be addressed before Okotoks can grow — most importantly finding new sources of water.
In addition, since 1997 Okotoks has been built using its world-renowned sustainability philosophies. Annexing additional land does not need to be the death knell for Okotoks’ focus on sustainable development.
Despite the concerns of some councillors who believe this is the end of Sustainable Okotoks this community can and will continue to embrace its sustainable growth model.
Coun. Florence Christophers stated it best when she said sustainability and size are not linked.
Okotoks will grow, but it does not need to lose its identity in the process.
An identity built on a foundation of conservation, innovation and sustainable growth.
