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Courtesy: City of Medicine Hat

Medicine Hat approves rezone for South Country Village expansion

Jul 2, 2024 | 7:02 PM

The land where a supportive seniors living residence is located in Medicine Hat was rezoned Tuesday to accomodate over a hundred more units and expand amenities.

City council voted unanimously to rezone 1720 Bell St. SW from a community services district to a medium density residential district.

That will allow the owner of the South County Village to build an apartment addition that will include 126 units, according to a presentation from staff.

The new building will grow the complex’s current $30.9 million assessed value by $16.5 million, adding $115,644 in municipal taxes in 2025.

Beyond new living spaces, the residence will also expand its heath care and lifestyle amenities with the rezoning.

Coun. Darren Hirsch, top middle, asked about transit service to the new medium density residential zone. Eli J. Ridder/CHAT News

Coun. Darren Hirsch asked about transit capacity and staff said there have been discussions about servicing the area but that it would get worked out at the development stage.

There was one letter of concern submitted to council ahead of Tuesday’s meeting.

Beverley Schaeffer, who identified herself as a resident and owner in Tower Estatesa, said she objected to the proposed rezoning.

“Please be advised there are safety issues I am not sure the planners are aware of,” she wrote in the letter, read out loud in the council chambers.

“Traffic will be a major concern on Highway 3. There is currently enough traffic to warrant traffic lights along the airport. Be wise, don’t improvise.”

Staff said her concerns have been passed on.