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City paves way for new urban reserve

Yorkton Council approved a new sub division of property in the city to help the process of it becoming urban reserve.

Yorkton Council approved a new sub division of property in the city to help the process of it becoming urban reserve.

“The subdivision is proposed by the owner, Cowessess Flood Claim Holdings, so they may apply for Federally-designated Urban Reserve status on a newly-created 2.99 acre lot, and to defer development plans for the 16.38 acre remnant portion,” Michael Eger Director of Planning, Building & Development, with the City told the regular meeting of Council Monday.

“The owner has proposed to name the new street “Little Child Way”. They have advised that this originates from their Treaty Four signatory, Chief Kwîwinžance. He was Saulteaux and the meaning of his name translated to “small boy”/“little child”. In 1886, surveyors approximated the spelling of the Chief’s name to Cowessess, which formed the Nation’s namesake and is the thusly translated to mean “little child”.”

Pursuant to Bylaw No. 26/2001, Council approval is typically not required for a subdivision creating no more than two parcels, however, a new roadway is proposed and the name must be approved in accordance with  the City’s “Naming of Civic Property and Development Areas” Policy.

Eger said work done by the property owner helped expedite the process.

“Cowessess, in conjunction with their team of professional consultants, have worked closely with City officials throughout the development process,” he explained.

“Cowessess is nearing completion of a draft Concept Plan and will soon submit for City consideration. This Plan will provide the basis for future development and subdivision of the remnant lands.”

Little Child Way would become a City asset upon completion of construction and warranty obligations by the developer.

“The details of this, along with installation of underground City services, required dedication for municipal reserve (or money-in-lieu) and payment of Development Levies would be addressed through a standard servicing agreement,” said Eger.

“In consideration of the extensive work carried out by Cowessess and of the Federal requirements for the Reserve-status application, Administration is satisfied to have the subdivision proceed at this time. Administration further supports the naming of the road as “Little Child Way”, as it is accordance with our “Naming of Civic Property and Development Areas” policy, and with best practices for street name designators.”

Council was unanimous in accepting the plan to sub divide the land.