Technology park proposal discussion scheduled for Tuesday in Rocky View County public hearing

In the heart of Alberta, a heated debate is unfolding over a proposed technology park in Rocky View County. The project, spearheaded by the Rocky View County Council, has sparked concern among local residents, particularly Christina Thomas, a nearby farmer.

The technology park, located near Highway 566 east of Balzac, spans approximately 453 hectares and includes multiple data processing and artificial intelligence center facilities, as well as a 900-megawatt power generation facility. The initiative, which began public involvement in early 2023, has been met with opposition, with dozens of landowners voicing their concerns at a community meeting on August 14.

Thomas, a vocal opponent, believes the technology park will be an eyesore and is concerned about potential health impacts to people and animals. She is also worried about potential negative impacts to property value. Moreover, she argues that there are more suitable locations for the technology park, such as Balzac, which is already zoned commercial.

Thomas's primary concern, however, is the timing of the project. She is upset that the information gathering and public hearing times are happening during harvest, a busy time for farmers. This sentiment is shared by other opponents, who argue that the county has rushed the public hearing, scheduled for Tuesday morning in Rocky View County council chambers.

Raymond McKay, with Kineticor Development and Operations, the company proposing the technology park, has reached out to surrounding neighbors to hear their concerns and work towards solutions. McKay emphasized that the project represents an opportunity for Rocky View County to benefit from Alberta's growing data center sector.

The project plan states that the technology park will increase Rocky View County's non-residential assessment base, which will have a substantial, long-term benefit to the County's fiscal position. Opponents, however, argue that the county has already built or is constructing two data centers on industrial-zoned land, implying that the region will still benefit from significant new tax revenue without sacrificing prime farmland.

The proposal also leverages existing and planned infrastructure like transmission lines, water facilities, and Highway 566. Kineticor has emphasized their commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility, stating that the technology park will adhere to strict environmental standards.

As the public hearing approaches, both sides of the debate are gearing up for a lively discussion. Many more concerned residents plan to attend the 9 a.m. meeting on Tuesday, ready to voice their opinions and hear more about the proposed technology park.

Technology park proposal discussion scheduled for Tuesday in Rocky View County public hearing