The City of Iqaluit is advancing plans for the West 40 Industrial Subdivision. This project will address the community’s growing demand for industrial land by creating new, serviced lots to support local business development and long-term economic growth. Planning began in late 2023 and includes site investigations, drainage and stormwater planning, and community engagement to ensure the subdivision is designed in a way that reflects local needs, respects traditional uses, and provides sustainable infrastructure for the future.

The West 40 Industrial Subdivision Concept Plan was developed in consultation with a range of stakeholders, including Iqaluit Qimussiqtiit Katimajingit, Amaruq Hunters and Trappers Association, and Nunavut Parks and Special Places. These important stakeholders and areas are formally recognized in the planning process, and the concept plan reflects their input to ensure their needs are supported.

Lot Pricing: Retaining a qualified appraiser to assign a Market Value to each lot is recommended for the West 40 Subdivision. Due to the varying conditions of the subdivision area, each lot will present its own unique challenges and through appraisal can be priced accordingly.

Off-site Levies - Drainage Improvements: Staff recommended that an off-site levy calculated by proportionally dividing the estimated cost of additional stormwater management upgrades following the construction phrase (currently estimated at $747,000). This levy would be proportionate to the sale price of each lot in the subdivision.

Off-site Levies - Cultural Amenity: A 3% offsite levy for cultural amenity is recommended to support off-site improvements to the dog team expansion area.

Accepted Payment Terms: Staff recommended that Council exercise their discretion on section 69 of the Land Administration By-law and not accept installment payments for lots in the West 40 Subdivision. While installments reduce the barriers for interested purchasers who do not have access to financing, the delay in revenue would disrupt cash flow. The Land Development Fund is needed in the short term to address housing shortage.

Application Limit: Staff expect that some proponents will submit multiple applications to acquire more land. It will be difficult entries by entity as many business owners have interests in multiple companies. As proposed, applications will be based upon projects and not applicants. There will be no limitations so long as each application pertains to a specific development project.

Speculation: To limit holding and speculation, staff propose that upon approval of the development permit, the development permit conditions are registered as covenant to the land for 10 years. The lot will then be subject to that specific use and project proposal for the said duration