Okotoks begins mediation with heritage home owner over demolition dispute

The Town of Okotoks has begun mediation with the owner of the Ardiel House, a 1906 heritage home located at 50 McRae Street in Olde Towne that was set to be demolished this spring.

Property owner Henk Van-Huigenbos filed for a demolition permit this spring, which the town issued because the structure had no heritage protections. Van-Huigenbos cited a lengthy battle with the town over development conditions and complaints levelled against him. He said unreasonable demands, particularly pertaining to the water drainage system, forced him to apply for demolition to mitigate financial damage, though he called demolition a last resort.

A statement from the Town of Okotoks on June 26 said it has entered into mediation with Van-Huigenbos over the disagreements. "The Town of Okotoks is pleased to announce that the owner of 50 McRae Street has accepted the invitation to participate in mediation. The process started in June and will continue through the summer," the statement reads.

The town also said that a series of complaints that began in mid-2025 resulted in investigations that determined most of the complaints were unfounded. The remaining issues relate to historic and current site conditions and will be addressed through the mediation.