Wood Buffalo residents, commercial rezoning

The council recently agreed to rezone part of downtown in order to allow for the development of commercial properties. The commercial rezoning went ahead but some concerns were voiced by Wood Buffalo residents about the types of commercial businesses that might move into the neighborhood. The goal is to create a neighborhood which is family oriented like what can be found at Eagle Ridge, but some are wondering if the changes could attract seedy businesses which affect the local neighborhood. The area in question is zoned for condos and residential homes currently and the commercial rezoning would allow commercial development in the area as well. The area includes Prairie Look Boulevard, Franklin Avenue, and Saline Creek Parkway. Many support the zoning change but some Wood Buffalo residents have some reservations.

One of the Wood Buffalo residents who spoke up at the council meeting about the commercial rezoning was Jon Tupper. When the floor opened Tupper stated “While the addition of the right type of commercial space could improve the character of the neighbourhood, the wrong type of businesses could change the character and diminish its spirit. It is a wonderful focal point for that community, but if one looks, for example, at Gregoire Corner, that paints an entirely different picture.” Winchester Builders owner Paul Bergram also spoke up, saying “I would also cautiously support this, however my caution is largely taken care of. The landlord of an older strip mall who has the building paid for and is more rundown would be more comfortable renting to a head shop or a massage parlour than somebody who is building a brand new, three-, four-, five-story concrete building that is very expensive.”