Ponoka explores zoning amendment under C1 District

PONOKA -- The Town of Ponoka is considering plans to allow a new landscaping supply business in the downtown area. 

According to the municipality, Bylaw No. 03-2026 proposes to amend Ponoka's land use bylaw by adding a discretionary use to the Central Commercial District (C1) to accommodate bulk sales of seasonal landscaping supplies. This comes after an application was submitted to the township related to 4419 50th Street, also described as "Lot 50, Block 40, Plan 242 1134". If approved, this would allow an outdoor storage yard for small-scale aggregate, landscaping soil and bagged potting soil.

The applicant's stated intent is to provide residents with the opportunity to purchase landscaping materials at retail quantities. The landscaping material would be sold in various quantities designed for customer pick-up, ranging from individual containers up to 1,000 KG bucket loads. The subject site associated with the proposed amendment is located along 50th Street, approximately 275 metres from the Highway 53 intersection and adjacent to the southeast corner of the Hammy's shopping centre.

A public hearing to discuss the matter will be held on Tuesday, May 26 at 6 p.m. in Council Chambers on the third floor of the Ponoka Civic Centre. Those wishing to speak will be requested to state their name and address for the record upon being recognized by the Chairperson. Council will hear submissions made in person or by the agent from any person who claims to be affected by the proposed bylaw.

Anyone wishing to submit written comments may do so by sending an email to permits@ponoka.ca prior to 4 p.m. on Thursday, May 21. People may make oral presentations at the Council meeting, regardless of whether or not they have provided written comments.