COLD LAKE - The City of Cold Lake council is discussing a potential incentive program aimed at addressing and assisting in the demolition of derelict residential properties.
At a recent Corporate Priorities meeting, council directed administration to draft a policy framework for a grant program that would help cover demolition costs, including those associated with asbestos abatement, which can be a major expense in tearing down old structures.
“This report is presented to see if the committee has any interest in establishing a derelict residential property demolition incentive program,” said Kristi Isert, General Manager of Corporate Services, who presented the initial report and outlined the program's intent.
She explained that while several development incentives exist, there is currently no grant specifically targeting derelict residential properties.
The City has several incentive programs aimed at community development, such as the Business Attraction and Incentive Program (BRAIP) and the Multi-Unit Rental Housing Incentive Program, according to information for the City of Cold Lake.
However, the costly nature of demolishing outdated properties has remained a barrier for residents and developers.
“We have heard from a number of builders as well as residents within the community that have indicated that there is interest in demolishing some of the residential properties that are past the point of being able to be remodeled or reused,” said Isert.
She highlighted efforts to manage derelict properties, which date back to 2003, pointing out the heavy administrative burden they place on City resources.
“There has also been a number of enforcement initiatives . . . which were causing significant concerns to neighbors as well as the community at large,” she explained.
Isert added that of six properties the City had identified as needing intervention, four have since been demolished, one has been rebuilt, and one remains unresolved.
The proposed incentive program would align Cold Lake with other municipalities that have launched similar initiatives.
Mayor Craig Copeland expressed interest in the straightforward approach seen in other programs, particularly one from Prince Albert.
“I like Prince Albert's model, very simple,” said Copeland. However, he also raised questions about tracking the landfill fees associated with demolitions, which could potentially be covered by the grant program.
Council recommended that the administration create a grant program to support the demolition of derelict residential properties. The initiative would focus on neighborhoods within Cold Lake South and Cold Lake North, heard council.
