“We’ve got potentially 70 lots that will come on stream in the next year,” he says, pointing to the upcoming completion of a significant wastewater infrastructure project that will enable this expansion. While the focus is on individual developments rather than clustered residential hubs, the County has a robust selection of properties across 18 residential subdivisions. “We consistently see individual developments of residential properties, being acreages or farmstead-type properties,” Parkin notes, adding that the demand for these properties has been increasing despite rising building costs. The area boasts 5,260 homes, with the majority being single-detached houses—approximately 4,595 units. Looking ahead, Parkin acknowledges potential challenges on the horizon. With a surge of new residents flocking to Alberta—200,000 last year alone, with projections of 400,000 in the coming year—the strain on housing supply is inevitable.“We have local developers ready to do more,” he states, increase the hamlet’s growth potential, making it one of the most substantial infrastructure projects in progress. Ace Water primarily manages the water supply across the County, which services most hamlets and supports commercial operations. “They are continuing to do upgrades in the northeast region of Alberta,” Parkin explains. The network reaches far beyond the County’s borders, stretching from west of CVR to the Saskatchewan border and extending over 100 kilometers north, ensuring a reliable water supply for residents and businesses throughout the region. RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS The County of Vermilion River is witnessing steady residential growth, catering to various housing needs while closely monitoring market dynamics. Parkin emphasizes the ongoing efforts in Blackfoot, a hamlet situated just 10 kilometers outside Lloydminster, the County’s closest primary market. 222 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 09
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