County Data Centre Rules – The County is moving toward setting formal rules for where and how data centres could be developed in the County of Newell. The County has already issued a development permit for one data centre on EID land. There are currently no data-centre-specific rules in the Land Use Bylaw. The proposal would split data centres into two categories: large data processing centres and small-scale data centres with a footprint under five acres. The smaller sites could be considered in agricultural and business areas, which could allow companies to develop alongside existing oil and gas infrastructure. Large data centres would only be allowed on industrial land. If one were proposed on agricultural land, a land use amendment would be required, including a public hearing. Applicants would need to provide details on power sources, noise and vibration, water use and disposal, emergency plans, lighting, landscaping, and views. Council asked whether night lighting could disturb neighbours or wildlife, and whether the proposed 800-metre notification area is large enough. Planning Supervisor Maria Jackson said, “That’s definitely something that can be considered. During the public hearing or second reading, we can make those amendments as council wishes.”

Agriculture Building Rules – The County says many residents believe farm buildings do not need a development permit, but problems can happen when a building is placed on a utility easement, in a wetland, too close to a road, or inside a required setback. The proposed bylaw would require development permits for agricultural buildings, while moveable agricultural structures, such as certain shelters, corrals, grain bins, and pivots, would generally not need a development permit if they meet the Land Use Bylaw. A development permit does not always mean a building permit is required, but the County wants landowners to understand when safety code permits may apply. Councillor H. Johnson raised concerns that farmers may not be happy with the change and said the rules need to be clear, especially around pivots, corrals, and permit fees. CAO Matt Fenske said there will be time for public input before the bylaw returns, likely in September or October. “There’s going to be edits. We know there’s going to be edits,” he said. “We’re going to learn something from the community when they engage on it.” Fenske added, “You don’t rush this through in the summertime.”

Two Markets This Week! – It is a two-market week for the Brooks Farmers’ Market. On Wednesday, July 1, the market will be in Rosemary for Canada Day, 11-3PM. On Thursday, the regular Brooks Farmers’ Market returns to Veteran’s Park from 2–6 PM.

Scandia Hall Gets Help to Finish – County Council approved $59,960 in additional funding for the Scandia Community Hall project. The hall upgrade was first approved for County support in 2022, but the project has grown as construction costs rose and the scope changed. Scandia Community Centre board chair Echo Chandler said the board has tried to keep costs down by getting three quotes for each trade, hiring local where possible, and relying on donated labour. “We are just asking for a little help to cross the finish line cuz we are so close,” she told Council. The project is now around the $900,000 mark, up from the original $600,000 to $700,000 estimate. Volunteers have helped with demolition, foundation work, framing, fundraising, cleanup, and parking lot work. The board said extra costs included fire-code door changes, kitchen and bar refrigeration, seating and tables, and work around the entrance and parking area. Council approved the funding request, and councillors thanked the community for the volunteer work behind the project.

Help Bring the Market to Life – Brooks Farmers’ Market is looking for volunteers who can be part of the Thursday market team this season. Roles include set-up crew, greeter and info booth assistant, vendor support, photo/video volunteer, data collector, and take-down crew. Some jobs are active, some are social, and some are behind the scenes. A season-long commitment is ideal, with room to miss when life gets busy. Volunteer position details are available at rosemaryag.ca under Volunteer Positions.

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