Geo-Energy developer Bill Hoes and UMA planner Les Humphrey met with the SECA Board and members of the Land Use Committee on March 15th. They expressed a desire to involve the community in the planning process to develop Shaw-Nee Slopes Golf Course. They indicated that they plan to meet with the community as part of their planning process and that future consultations are to be the norm and not the exception.

Bill Hoes stated that Geo-Energy has an agreement in place with the current owners of the golf course but the deal has not yet closed. He indicated that there are no conditions on the title (including rezoning of the land) and that they have the money in place. He also said the golf course will continue to operate as a golf course next year. The representatives from Geo Energy have expressed a desire to consult the community before meeting with City Hall.

In terms of timelines, Geo-Energy expects the planning process to take two years. Construction would take place three to four years from now.

Throughout the discussion, Geo-Energy representatives would not share their ideas for development of the golf course, except to say that they will no longer run an 18-hole golf course. Their plans appear to include high-end condominiums (but not high rises) and some local commercial development (but not a “Walmart”), but this is speculation. They did say clearly that they do not intend to clear the land and they hope to integrate existing trees where possible. Unfortunately, they had no answers to concerns raised regarding traffic issues and access to Macleod Trail, which is a major concern to communities south of Fish Creek.

The mandate given to the Land Use Committee by residents is to oppose any development of the land that does not support its use as a golf course. While we recognize and appreciate the gesture of Geo-Energy to include us in their plans to redevelop the land, we need time to consult with the community before we would consider modifying that mandate. The reality is that Geo-Energy must apply to the City with an application to rezone the land. Their success is not a given if we choose to oppose that application. We will carefully consider our options and consult with the community in a town hall meeting shortly.

Guy Matheson
SECA President