City of Lloydminster council received a six-month update on the land use bylaw, with feedback indicating some changes are required.
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At the Jan. 12 Governance and Priorities Committee meeting, Natasha Pidkowa, manager of planning, explained the city has received feedback on the bylaw.
“Since its approval in June of 2025, planning services, in conjunction with the general public, has been documenting areas that require refinement and amendment,” she said. “Some of these areas include landscaping and planting regulations, sign regulations, enforcement measures and procedures, additional definitions, additional uses within the districts to promote further flexibility, as well as some minor mapping clean-up.”
The purpose of the ongoing efforts to improve the land use bylaw is to reduce red tape and make it easier to use.
“The purpose of this amendment we’re looking to complete is to ensure administration’s commitment to reducing red tape, cultivating innovation and flexibility and improving clarity,” said Pidkowa.
She said that while working with the new bylaw, applicants interpreted certain provisions differently than administration.
“Sometimes, it was as small as a numbering error, so they do range greatly,” said Pidkowa. “I would say, I don’t think there’s any changes that are directly changing the intent, just further enhancing the clarity and interpretation of the bylaw.”
The bylaw will require three readings and a public hearing before it can pass. Rules around what participants may address at a public hearing were also clarified.
“The public hearings are very specific to only being able to speak to what’s currently in front of council for consideration,” said Shannon Rowan, city clerk.
Deputy Mayor David Lopez says it’s good to hear from the public.
“I like that we got a six-month review to know exactly where we are,” he said. “There’s no document that’s ever perfect. So, to be able to update it or make some modifications is always a positive thing that helps reduce the red tape. Helping things move more fluidly is a positive for the city.”
The item is expected to return to a future council meeting for first reading.
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