MD of Taber Municipal Planning Commission meeting highlights from April 7

Posted on May 7, 2026 by Vauxhall Advance

By Nerissa McNaughton
Southern Alberta Newspapers
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Municipal Planning Commission (MPC) for the MD of Taber met on April 7, 2026. Here is an overview of the topics and discussions.

The meeting began with the adoption of the minutes from the March 2 MPC meeting, which included approvals for a variety of development applications.

Development Application 4-26: David Johnson’s application to construct a 3,100 sq. ft. dwelling with a 1,400 sq. ft. attached garage for employee housing was approved. Conditions included entering into a Water and Sewer Use Agreement with the Village of Barnwell, obtaining all necessary permits, and adhering to setback requirements. A waiver was granted to reduce the front yard setback from 100 ft to 50 ft.

Development Application 12-26: Mix Max Liquidation received approval to operate a liquidation and bakery business in an existing 3,520 sq. ft. commercial building in Johnson’s Addition. Conditions included maintaining clear access to driveways, limiting parking to designated areas, and ensuring proper signage and lighting. Business hours were set from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, Monday through Saturday.

Development Application 14-26: Western Solar (on behalf of Dyan Kleinjan) to install a 150kW AC, 193.4kW DC ground-mount solar array on NE 23-9-15-W4 was approved. The project must adhere to conditions such as proper recycling of decommissioned components, mitigating glare from the panels, and ensuring compliance with setback requirements.

Development Application 20-26: Northern PWR (on behalf of Randy McClelland) to install a 5.12kW AC, 7.12kW DC roof-mount solar array on Block 68A Plan 4680JK in Hays was approved. A waiver was granted to reduce the front yard setback from 100 ft to 55 ft. Other conditions included proper disposal of decommissioned components and glare mitigation.

Development Application 22-26: Western Solar on behalf of Kevin Wind also received approval for the installation of a 150kW AC, 209.56kW DC ground-mount solar array. Similar to the earlier solar project, conditions included proper recycling, glare mitigation, and adherence to setback requirements.

The MPC also approved the renewal of several home occupation permits for one year. These included a photography business, woodworking and upholstery, massage therapy, gunsmithing, off-site oilfield services, dog grooming, hairstyling, trailer sales, and a baked goods operation.

The April 7 meeting  moved into new business with a packed agenda that kept the discussion active and engaging. The Commission reviewed a variety of items, including requests for reviews on NRCB applications, subdivision decisions, and intermunicipal development plan referrals. Delegations from local applicants presented their cases for development applications ranging from agricultural buildings and solar installations to residential projects.

The MD of Taber’s MPC plays a vital role in shaping the region’s growth and development. By carefully reviewing applications and engaging with the community, the Commission ensures that projects align with local bylaws and priorities while supporting economic and residential development. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and participate in future meetings to stay connected with the decisions shaping their community.