The city has decided to demolish 17 homes in Elbow Park that flooded back in 2013, and wants to hear from Elbow Park residents on the long-term plan for the area.
The province has determined that removing the homes is the best solution because they had sustained severe damage and were falling into further disrepair.
It was also decided not to put any new residents at risk of flooding by returning the homes to residential use before flood mitigation on the Elbow River is complete.
“In my many conversations with residents of these communities, the desire to move forward with these properties – sooner rather than later – has been consistent,” said Danielle Larivee, Minister of Municipal Affairs. “Now that the provincial government has decided to demolish the homes, I am pleased they have also committed to consult with the City and residents about the future of these properties.”
“Once flood mitigation on the Elbow River is complete, it may be possible to rebuild in some of these areas that are currently vulnerable to flooding,” said Mayor Naheed Nenshi.
Larivee and Mayor Naheed Nenshi will meet with the public in January. An exact date will be announced, but for now, residents are invited to provide written feedback by emailing minister.municipalaffairs@gov.ab.ca
