Jones Estate Re-Zoning – why is consideration being given to this risky proposal to add 11 single-family houses when there are currently another 5,000 open Cochrane locations available. The town administration has prepared a summary submission (available on Town of Cochrane (TofC) website) for the mayor and council. This document is not neutral, but it will influence our elected representatives to vote in favour of the re-zoning of this land. The Town of Cochrane Master Plan has this property zoned for multi-residential development, administration is determined to defend this plan. The town councillors have been advised that they cannot listen to concerns with this application outside the Sept. 10 public meeting. Why?? Our councillors were elected to hear and understand our concerns. Worse, the developer had an unchallenged last say at the public meeting, and could get to provide additional presentations to the Town of Cochrane. Is this reasonable or right!! Not Discussed: 1. Jones Estate was never designed to be part of the GlenEagles area development. The opportunity to develop this estate has passed. 2. Increased traffic on existing 7.3 m under-sized access road (also the pedestrian sidewalk) the developer’s engineering study is misleading and is based on criteria for the US. 3. “Open House” meetings, hosted by the developer. A ploy - to support the requirement for “community engagement.” Implies that resident concerns have been accommodated. Omission: 1. Hillside stability below the Estate – The developer’s incomplete engineering report brushes off the potential impact of the development on the GlenEagles slopes with assumptions that lack industry standard geotechnical data and engineering analysis. 2. Financial Implication to the Town of Cochrane: Every project must have a financial or social benefit, or it should not proceed!! There is no statement of the cost to Town of Cochrane nor the tax/social benefit, and financial liability – Repair costs to damaged infrastructure due to slope movement could be in excess of $3,000,000. 3. Construction Access off Highway 1A – No proof from Alberta Transportation. 4. Impact on adjacent residents - Wind-born (can be 100-kph) dust and debris from construction will affect adjacent residences. Changes to Glenvista Place road: The developer has been advised that parking and travel restrictions can be applied by the Town of Cochrane to improve traffic concerns – ignoring the residents’ wishes. 5. To ensure true community engagement, town administration should host an open house for residents of Cochrane. 6. Residents GlenEagles do not want this property re-zoned. Graham Hook, P.Eng.
