In 2007, R.M. Council approved bylaw amendments to the R.M. of Corman Park Development Plan (OCP) and Zoning Bylaw to recognize the historic Mennonite settlement of Blumenheim. The amendments included creating subdivision policies for the community within the OCP and a special zoning district within the Zoning Bylaw.

The intent of 2007 bylaw amendments was to accommodate agricultural residential development and retain the long lot form of traditional Mennonite settlements across the Canadian prairies (i.e. farm houses and businesses oriented along the main street). Since the adoption of the bylaws, landowners in Blumenheim expressed that they wish to subdivide, re-configure or further develop their properties but are unable to do so under the current bylaws. This is due to specific bylaw restrictions such as the types of land uses, the size/layout of the property, requirement to retain the long lot form or keep buildings close to Township Road 395.

In 2020, Corman Park re-engaged with Blumenheim landowners to determine if the bylaws were still consistent with the community vision and subdivision/development desires, and if any proposed changes had servicing constraints or fit with municipal land use planning principles. 

Community engagement began in May 2020. As a result of responses to the questionnaire, R.M. Administration created subdivision and land use options that were shared at a Blumenheim ratepayer meeting on October 7, 2020 in Osler. Click here to view a copy of the PowerPoint presentation.

As a result of the information gathered from the community meeting and feedback from Council, a preferred subdivision and land use bylaw that could allow further property development and subdivision was drafted. Online engagement was held in April 2021 to share the proposed bylaw policies and get feedback prior to R.M. Council considering the necessary bylaw changes.

At the June 14, 2021 R.M. Council meeting, first reading was given to Bylaw 34/21, which was the bylaw containing the amendments to the AR3 Zoning District for Blumenheim. At the July 12, 2021 R.M. Council meeting, a public hearing was held and second & third reading were given by Council to Bylaw 34/21. 

Bylaw 34/21 has received provincial approval and is now in effect. The R.M. is able to consider new development and building permits or subdivision applications that align with the amended R.M. of Corman Park Development Plan (OCP) and Zoning Bylaw. Please contact the R.M. planning department if you have questions or need more information planning@rmcormanpark.ca or 306-242-9303.