NORTH BATTLEFORD — In a move aimed at bolstering economic growth, the City of North Battleford passed the Zoning Bylaw No. 2176 during a council meeting June 9.
Mayor Kelli Hawtin emphasized the renewed flexibility that these proposed changes would bring, stating, “There’s more permitted business uses in all areas of the city,” which could lead to increased opportunities for development in commercial sectors.
The amendment seeks to introduce a roster of new business uses across various zoning districts. This includes 28 additional uses in the C1 (Downtown Commercial) district and nine in the C3 (Arterial Commercial) district, covering essential services such as major financial institutions and apartments. Similar expansions are also suggested for C3A, C4, MU and M1 districts.
Feedback from the business community has highlighted the restrictions imposed by the existing zoning regulations, which have led to declined requests for development due to non-compliance with the zoning bylaw. By allowing a broader range of uses, such as major offices and financial institutions, which currently are confined to the C1 district, city officials say they are responding directly to these concerns.
The amendments are not just about permitting more businesses; they also aim to clarify existing definitions and differentiate between similar uses, such as pawn shops and second-hand stores.
One notable aspect of the proposed changes is the adjustment of parking requirements for the Mixed Use (MU) District to align with those of the C3 District, potentially alleviating some logistical challenges for new establishments. Furthermore, the council is keen on ensuring that the dialogue around these changes is inclusive, planning a public engagement session to gather community input before an official introduction of Bylaw No. 2176.
