Update on moratorium on new construction to preserve existing drinking water system capacity

Because of its growth and the need to protect its water resources, the Municipality of Chelsea has adopted a draft by-law imposing a temporary moratorium on all new construction in the village center. This two-year measure, effective July 2, 2024, will enable the Municipality to modernize its infrastructure and ensure that future development is sustainable.

An information session for merchants and developers was held on July 15. An information session is planned for mid-October, with minor amendments possible before the final by-law is adopted, scheduled for November 2024.

Some residents have expressed concerns following the adoption of this moratorium; we would like to clarify the issues related to this decision and answer any questions you may have.

The Municipality of Chelsea's Master Plan has been drawn up per, among other things, the major government orientations in land use planning established by the provincial government and in concordance with the provisions of the schéma d'aménagement et de développement de la MRC des Collines-de-l'Outaouais (SAD).

For example, the province of Quebec has adopted government guidelines aimed at limiting urban sprawl and the destruction of Quebec's natural and agricultural environments by promoting the development and densification of already urbanized areas. Consequently, the schéma d'aménagement et de développement of the MRC des Collines-de-l'Outaouais, as well as the Master Plan of the Municipality of Chelsea, identify urban perimeters within its territory in which all major development projects will henceforth be concentrated.

Chelsea's urban perimeter, as defined in the Master Plan, complies with provincial and regional land-use guidelines to curb urban sprawl and protect natural environments. The Centre-Village's urban perimeter (PU) boundaries are virtually identical to those of the previous urban plan. The recent 20% perimeter expansion corresponds to Hydro-Québec property, at Hydro-Québec's request, and this portion is not available for development.

The decision to impose a moratorium does not demonstrate a failure of the development strategy.

The previous urban plan did not "open the doors" to uncontrolled development. On the contrary, to strike a balance, higher-density development was restricted to a few very specific lots, i.e. only three vacant lots intended to accommodate the three major real estate projects planned (Chelsea Creek, Hendrick Farm, Quartier Meredith) and certain lots located along the three main arteries (route 105, ch. Old Chelsea and ch. Scott).

However, this rapid growth has exposed some of our infrastructure's limitations. That's why we had to make the difficult decision to impose a temporary moratorium.

Although our water treatment plant still has room to maneuver, we must act proactively to preserve this essential resource. By instituting this moratorium, we are demonstrating our commitment to ensuring the continuity of our services for our already connected citizens, securing units for future essential services and preventing any critical situation. It will also enable us to upgrade our infrastructure to meet the needs of a growing population.

Like any healthy and growing municipality, the Municipality of Chelsea wants to attract more and more commercial and community services to meet the needs of its growing population.

Fortunately, the Municipality already benefits from many local services, including three schools, several daycare centres, two pharmacies, two grocery stores, a veterinarian, a dental clinic, a chiropractic clinic, a physiotherapy centre, a notary, accountant and real estate offices, several mechanical garages, a variety of shops and a multitude of restaurants, bars and cafés.

Despite the moratorium, Chelsea remains committed to attracting new services and businesses. The Municipality has already approved or is in the process of approving several essential community projects, including a new school, daycare centers and a medical centre.