Residents Await Decision on GraceLife Church Expansion near Edmonton
People living near a proposed church expansion just outside Edmonton are waiting for a public appeals board to decide whether their opposition to the project can move forward.
On Nov. 15, 2024, GraceLife Church of Edmonton was issued a development permit to add to their existing building, along Highway 627 and Range Road 262, beside the Edmonton Corn Maze in Parkland County.
GraceLife applied to the county last year to add 50,000 square feet to the existing facility: a new, 25,000-square-foot sanctuary and a 25,000-square-foot education centre with 13 classrooms and a gymnasium.
Sunday church attendance is expected to rise from 800 to 900 congregants over two services to 1,200 to 1,500 people in one large gathering.
Enoch Cree Nation, which is directly across the highway from the church, and Parkland County residents living on acreages near GraceLife submitted appeals against the permit. However, these arrived after the county's deadline.
Neighbours reported that notices were delayed due to the Canada Post strike in November and December.
"We didn't get the notice until late," said Hiroki Currie, who spoke at the hearing on behalf of residents. "Could that have been done differently? I argue yes."
Those submitting appeals expressed several concerns with the expansion, including increased traffic on the highway, water use, and its fit within the rural area. Many also stated that the church hasn't been a good neighbour.
"It's not a good fit for our community. Our community doesn't want it," said Ayman Hassan, a resident near the church. "It's being thrust upon us and we're unequivocal -- we're against it."
Hassan mentioned that there is lingering resentment due to the church's actions during the pandemic, as the church had defied health orders and hosted large gatherings, leading to tension in the community.
The church did not adhere to rules on wearing masks or keeping distances and ignored a closure order, even as fencing was erected around the building during that time. Pastor James Coates was arrested amidst the standoff.
Residents noted that anti-restriction protesters had left garbage and caused disturbances in the neighbourhood, prompting the RCMP to block off surrounding areas, which led to lengthy detours for residents.
Hassan stated that area residents had sought an apology from the church for the tough period but were met with indifference.
The congregants mainly drive in from Edmonton, leading Hassan to compare the proposed expansion to a megachurch more suited for a major highway like Anthony Henday Drive.
GraceLife members declined to comment after the hearing, and the public appeal board will determine whether the appeals were too late or will evaluate the appeals on March 10.
