PETITION OF RESIDENTS OPPOSING DISCRETIONARY USE APPLICATIONS 25-023 & 25-024
SW 13-21-22 W2 – VILLAGE OF BUENA VISTA

We, the undersigned residents and property owners of the Village of Buena Vista and surrounding area, respectfully submit this petition to Council expressing our opposition to Discretionary Use Applications #25-023 (proposed personal residence) and #25-024 (seasonal cattle grazing) on lands located at SW 13-21-22 W2.

Reason for Petition

After reviewing the information available and considering the environmental, safety, financial, and long-term planning implications, we believe the proposed development is incompatible with the Future Urban Development (FUD) zoning and poses significant risks to our community.

Our Concerns Include, but Are Not Limited To:

Slope Stability & Safety Risks
The proposed development is on a steep hillside. Changes to the land may increase the likelihood of slope movement, erosion, or destabilization, putting existing homes at risk.
Drainage & Runoff Impacts
Past examples in nearby areas have shown that unplanned hillside runoff can flood homes, pose natural gas risks and damage property. No engineered stormwater plan has been presented to prevent similar problems here.
Environmental Risks to Last Mountain Lake
Runoff from livestock grazing and a Type II septic system could contaminate the lake with E. coli, phosphates, and nitrates, affecting recreation, wildlife, water quality, and tourism.
Insurance & Financial Burdens on Existing Residents
Local insurance rates are already rising due to slope-related risks. Additional development on unstable terrain could further increase premiums or make coverage more difficult to obtain.
Emergency Access & Fire Response Limitations
The elevated location lacks established water supply for firefighting, and road access may not safely support emergency vehicles year-round.
Livestock Impacts
Seasonal cattle grazing will introduce strong odours, noise, flies, wandering animals, and wildlife attractants, none of which are compatible with residential transition areas.
Property Value Decline
Proximity to livestock, environmental risks, and visual impacts can reduce surrounding property values and community desirability.
Inconsistency with the Official Community Plan
The FUD zoning is intended for future residential and community development, not agricultural operations or livestock grazing. Approval would set a precedent for incompatible uses.

Our Request to Council

We respectfully request that the Village of Buena Vista Council deny Discretionary Use Applications 25-023 and 25-024 and uphold the intent of the FUD zoning, the Official Community Plan, and the long-term vision for safe and sustainable community growth.