Coalhurst considering new Community Standards Bylaw

Posted on September 19, 2024 by Sunny South News

By Nikki Jamieson
Sunny South News

Coalhurst town council has passed first reading of a bylaw which would consolidate a number of town governing documents.

Presented during the regular Sept. 3 meeting of Coalhurst town council, the draft Bylaw No. 457-24 – or the draft Community Standards Bylaw – would consolidate several of the town’s existing bylaws and policies in an effort to streamline their governing documents and provide and more simplified approach to the town’s bylaws and policies. The bylaw would not contain any new rules or regulations, but it would be a place were residents can find information on a number of topics relating to community standards.

If passed, a number of bylaws would be rescinded, such as: 

• Smoke and/or Vape Free Playgrounds and Athletic Fields Bylaw No. 432-22

• Noise Control Bylaw No. 315-06

• Unsightly Premises Bylaw No. 303-04

• Weapon Control Bylaw No. 291-02

• Rollerblades, Skateboards, Golf Clubs, Golf Balls, and Off-Highway Vehicles 

• Bylaw No. 288-02

• Weed Control Bylaw No. 116-86

The town policy documents which would be rescinded should the draft Community Standards Bylaw be passed include: 

• Boulevard and Alley Maintenance Policy No. 32-01-03

• Unsightly Premises Action Policy No. 66-02-01

• Weed Control Policy No. 62-01-01

Coun. Scott Akkerman said he appreciated the work that went into the draft bylaw from town administration.

“I know this is something we’ve been asking for for a long time. I think this is going to be hugely beneficial to the community, to kind of have a one-stop shop document for residents, so that they can see what they need to see without having to search too far,” said Akkermans.

Council passed two separate motions to pass first reading of Community Standards Bylaw No. 457-24, and to refer the draft Community Standards Bylaw No. 457-24 to a Committee of the Whole Meeting for further consideration.

As of press deadline, a potential public hearing date has not been announced for the draft bylaw.