The city of Dryden is giving residents an opportunity to comment on a proposed Master Plan for waterfront property in the South Van Horne area.
It includes an area where a proposed multi-unit housing project has been discussed.
Chief Administrative Officer Roger Nesbitt says the master plan does not automatically green light the project.
“In order for the sale to proceed, the development agreement will have to be in place,” says Nesbitt.
“From there, the development agreement becomes the contractual obligation that the developer has with the municipality. But right now, the land is not technically sold.”
The Master Plan recognizes the development, but includes provisions that at least 35% of the land be left for things such as park land, trails and shoreline buffers.
The city is giving residents 30 days to provide feedback.
Councillor Ritch Noel worries the process is being rushed.
“The nagging feeling I have is I feel this is being put before us at the 11th hour,” says Noel.
“There’s a potential that a completely new council is going to be coming in a very short time. I don’t understand the rush here. This is something that we need to really get correct and have the public, no matter which way we go on this. There’s always going to be people dissatisfied, but this is a very important decision.”
Nesbitt notes that staff will review comments received following the consultation period to consider any necessary revisions before returning it to council for final approval.
He says council could direct additional consultation if necessary.
