Local Political News Springbank/Elbow Valley

Councillor’s Update – Rocky View County – Don Kochan – Aug 2025

Don Kochan – Division 2 

RVC Division 2 news items for your information:

Road Construction Updates – Please see the traffic disruption notification at the following link, regarding the roundabout construction at Springbank Road and Range Road 31 (www.rockyview.ca/road-updates#springbank). The intersection will be closed until September 15, 2025 to complete construction of a roundabout. The maps show the recommended detour routes to and from the Provincial Highways. Inquiries can be directed to Eric Schuh of Rocky View County at 403-520- 1284, Constantine Meraklis of Aecon at 403-519-8307, or Jason McGibbon of Sedulous Engineering at 403-998-5090.

To be aware of the latest progress on the RR33 Interchange project you can view the website www.rockyview.ca/county-services/capital-projects/transportation/highway-1-range-road-33-interchange

Farm Family Award – Each year the Calgary Stampede receives nominations from municipal districts for outstanding agriculture producers from southern Alberta. On July 6, 2025, the Calgary Stampede announced this year’s BMO Farm Family winners, including the Woolliams family who were among 19 recipients of the Calgary Stampede’s 2025 BMO Farm Family Awards.

A fifth-generation grain and hay farming family from west of Airdrie the Woolliams Farms Ltd. is owned and operated by 5th- generation grain and hay farmers, Larry and Kortney, along with their children, Paige and Trace. The family-run operation has roots dating back to 1890 when the Woolliams family started one of the first local dairy farms in the Rocky View County area. The farm has evolved into an impressive progressive grain farming operation, focused on precision agriculture and new technologies to maximize efficiency and improve planting practices. The family is also active in the community, with deep ties to the Airdrie 4-H Beef and Sheep Club. Their children have been members for over 10 years, winning many grand and reserved championships, and Larry has served as the club’s Project Leader for seven years. Read more at: www.rockyview.ca/news-events/news/article/3527/calgary-stampede-names-2025-farm-family-award-winners

Agriculture Master Plan – Rocky View County Council has approved a new Agriculture Master Plan, a strategic document that outlines a long-term vision for agriculture and land use planning in the County. The plan establishes goals for future growth, supports innovation, and provides a roadmap to support the needs and priorities of the agricultural community from 2026 – 2036. Through open houses, surveys, workshops, and one-on-one conversations, community members identified key priorities such as rural infrastructure, flexible housing options, and improved communication. These insights directly informed the plan’s goals and an action, ensuring it reflects both the current realities and the long- term future of agriculture in Rocky View County. Read the approved plan here: pub-rockyview.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=17209

New Plan Quick Facts:

  • Introduce a land use monitoring program for subdivision developments in key agricultural areas.
  • Explore flexible housing options to support farm viability and reduce land fragmentation.
  • Strengthen policies that recognize the ecological value of agricultural lands.
  • Address transportation needs to support the safe and efficient movement of farm equipment.
  • Balance renewable energy development with the preservation of productive farmland.
  • Support diversification through agri- tourism and agri-business initiatives.
  • Expand public education and outreach about agriculture’s role and legislated programs.
  • Enhance internal training to equip County staff and new Council members to better support agriculture.

Bearspaw First Nations – The Bearspaw First Nation is a neighbour of Rocky View County, and as such, we are working to develop intermunicipal relationships. At the Council meeting held on June 17, 2025, Council directed Administration to engage in dialogue with the Administration of Bearspaw First Nation and to provide an update by Q1 2026 regarding a proposed Relationship Committee to serve as a forum for future collaboration, including a potential Terms of Reference. This committee presents the opportunity to build relationships and provide a valuable forum for future collaboration between Rocky View County and Bearspaw First Nation. The County is aware of discussions around a development proposal from Durum Capital and the Bearspaw First Nation in the Springbank area. As with any proposed development in the County, all processes and formal discussions regarding development would be made through Council’s established review and approval processes under the Municipal Government Act and other related legislation. The County remains committed to building positive relationships with our neighbours and to fulfilling our duties as an approving authority, treating all development proponents in a fair and equitable manner.

Don Kochan – Deputy Reeve
Division 2 Councillor
kochandiv2@gmail.com

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