Big Lakes County presented the draft municipal development plan and land-use bylaw during open houses recently held. Above, documents are reviewed by Pat Olansky, director of planning and development, left, Reeve Ken Matthews, middle, and Jocelyn Mackay of Consultant V3 Companies of Canada.

Richard Froese
South Peace News

Growth in tourism and alternative energy in Big Lakes County are key drivers suggested in the draft municipal development plan to help sustain the future.

Both the MDP and land-use bylaw were presented at open house sessions last week in Triangle, Joussard, and Faust.

“We are looking at more development in the county,” Reeve Ken Matthews says.
“When I was on council about 10 years ago, there was not as much development then as there is today.”

Residents were encouraged to submit ideas about the draft documents to the county by July 11.

“We hope the public does get involved and offer us suggestions,” Matthews says.

Council will consider the comments before the bylaws are presented to council for first reading this summer followed by a public hearing.

Documents were drafted from consultation from residents and stakeholders last fall.

“The county’s natural environment provides many opportunities for outdoor tourism activities,” the MDP states.
“An analysis of tourism trends in the region indicates several opportunities for potential growth in this sector.”

More fixed-roof accommodations such as hotels and motels are needed, along with a balance of campground sites with marinas and lake access, marketing and promotion, and creating partnerships with aboriginal communities and regional bodies to support tourism expansion.

With the sagging economy, the MDP suggests the county develop an alternative energy sector as opportunities arise.

Agriculture and preserving farmland remain top priorities for the county and the provincial government, the report notes.