New development should carry a fair share of the costs directly created by that development. That includes appropriate development charges, connections and infrastructure required specifically to service new subdivisions. However, not every municipal cost can or should be placed entirely on new development. Major infrastructure that benefits the entire community should reasonably be shared by the municipality as a whole. The key is fairness and transparency. Residents should not be expected to subsidize infrastructure that is primarily required because of a new development, but we also cannot make development responsible for every community-wide project. West St. Paul needs growth, but growth must be managed responsibly. Development should contribute appropriately to the infrastructure and services it requires while maintaining the municipality's long-term financial health.

New development should pay for the roads, drainage, water, and wastewater infrastructure it requires, as well as its fair share of larger capacity upgrades. Those roads and pipes will eventually need to be repaired or replaced. A newly paved road today may need major work in roughly 25 years. I would require a schedule showing the expected life and replacement cost of infrastructure added through development, with a portion of development revenue directed into reserves for that future work. The RM should maintain a road inventory and a funded renewal plan so money is available when assets reach the end of their useful life. We should plan for these costs now rather than pass the bill to our children.

New development should carry the reasonable costs directly created by that development inclusive of required roads, drainage, sewer and water connections, and other supporting infrastructure. Taxpayers should not be expected to subsidize infrastructure that primarily benefits a new development. Whereas when a road, sewer project or public facility provides a broader community benefit, sharing a part of that cost may be reasonable. My point being, having clear development discussion, agreements, consistent policies and proper enforcement will be necessary for me and the community. We will and should welcome responsible development as long as it contributes fairly to the long-term costs and while also considering the residents and their future.

Currently developers are paying for sewer line, water line, roads, sidewalk, ponds, greenspaces, playgrounds, lighting, path/trails, and fencing. During this term of Council, speed control, signage, pedestrian crosswalks, and traffic calming devices were added to the Developers list to pay for. As Council continues to learn more of what the needs are, we will continue to add to the Developers list where appropriate.