The Town of High River is a step closer to finalizing their annexation agreement for Redtail Rise with Foothills County.

On Monday, February 25, Council moved at their regular meeting to pay the County $550 per acre compensation for the land in Southeast High River, totalling $33,165.

Redtail Rise is one of three County areas going through annexation negotiations with the Town.

The Town initially proposed no compensation be paid, however, Foothills County suggested it was necessary for a number of reasons, including the work the County has put into the subdivision and permitting process of Redtail Rise so far.

Mayor Craig Snodgrass says it was a minor sticking point, but it's a fair value he's glad Council passed the motion.

"It's a part of what we're doing, and we put our hand up to do this annexation which costs money to do that. A $33,000 cost to this is not a big deal in my mind."

Snodgrass says the compensation of $550 per acre is the same cost as the 2012 annexation.

He says if Council had refused the payment, it just costs more in legal fees and staff hours to come to an agreement.

Snodgrass hopes to get started on the final approval of the annexation agreement at the next Town Council meeting.

 

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