A wave of discontent has swept across the citizens of Canmore in response to a contentious ruling by the Alberta Court of Appeal. The court’s decision clears the path for two significant developments on the town’s eastern border, a move which promises to spur unprecedented population growth.
Crowds gathered on Thursday under the banner of protest, their collective dismay directed at the Three Sisters Mountain Village (TSMV) and Smith Creek development projects. The scene of their demonstration was an event organised by the Bow Valley Builders and Developers Association—a significant gathering graced by the powerful presence of Premier Danielle Smith.
Among the displeased citizens was Naia West, a lifetime resident of the locality. West earnestly expressed her grievances about the potential decimation of a critical wildlife corridor due to the proposed development.
“I’ve been a part of this community my whole life,” West lamented. “I’ve nurtured a connection to this place, fostered it diligently over the years…only to wake up to the realization that one person in Edmonton holds the power to dictate our fate.”
The Canmore town council had initially vetoed the development projects, yet, their decision was overturned by the Land and Property Rights Tribunal of Alberta in May 2022.
Many locals echoed West’s frustration, claiming that the town’s democratic character was under attack. Among them was John Meyer, a long-term resident. “I’ve never witnessed a democratic process quite like the council’s earlier rejection of the area plan,” Meyer mused. “Yet, for our collective decision to be overturned by the tribunal—it feels like an unexpected gust of communism.”
However, those who advocate the development projects say that due process is being followed. Chris Ollenberger, director of strategy and development for TSMV, stated, “We’ve achieved a balance that honours environmental concerns, the town’s financial capacity and affordable housing.”
In response to wildlife preservation concerns, Ollenberger pointed to the exhaustive environmental review process that projects undergo. He expressed confidence in the proposed environmental solutions, emphasising their thorough vetting through local and provincial assessments.
Canmore Mayor, Sean Krausert, underscored the town’s commitment to respecting the decision of the tribunal and continuing the planning process. “I appreciate the clarity of the decision and now we move forward,” he said.
The province insists that strict checks and balances ensure the fairness and impartiality of the decision. The Alberta Court of Appeal ratified the tribunal’s decision, ruling that all relevant legislative processes were appropriately adhered to in this case. The final stage of development approval will be presented to the Canmore town council in the next month, with construction likely to commence in 2025.
