Landmark development a huge opportunity: Rivard

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This article was published 28/06/2018 (2126 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

A new development in Landmark means short-term pain and long-term gain for residents.

“I think this is huge, huge for Landmark,” said Tache mayor Robert Rivard.

Tache approved the development, proposed by Schinkel Properties, at a public hearing on June 12. The development comprises 212 lots on 83 acres on Landmark’s east side. According to Rivard, it will span two-thirds the length of the town.

Landmark’s growth has been stalled to the point that residents “couldn’t even add a house” because the town’s water supply didn’t have the capacity, he said.

He added that Landmark schools have seen declining enrollment as the lack of new homes has forced young families to move elsewhere.

Rivard said he expects the new houses will bring students to the schools and increase opportunities for local businesses.

At the same time, the development won’t go forward until a new water treatment plant is built.

The total cost of the treatment plant and distribution system is estimated at $11 million, which will be funded through federal and provincial grants, Landmark reserve funds, and by borrowing about $2.6 million.

To pay down the loan, the municipality will levy Landmark properties that are hooked up to the water system.

Rivard added that the town will also get fire hydrants in the spring, which should decrease residents’ insurance bills and partially offset the new cost.

Rivard said public response was positive, on the whole. “Everyone understood and agreed that Landmark needs development,” he said.

Residents expressed concern about increased traffic, particularly construction traffic around the schools on the east side of town. Tache planning officer Ellen Enns said both the municipality and developer have pledged to address this.

Schinkel Properties intends to begin putting in infrastructure this winter so road building can begin in May, said Jean Klassen, the company’s property enhancement developer.