Rocky Mountain House now has a formal committee aimed exclusively at spurring economic growth.

Officially named The Community Growth Committee, the newly-formalized entity is the evolution of a former ad hoc committee that would periodically meet with business leaders and explore growth opportunities.

Going forward, the committee will provide guidance to council on economic activities, as well as to increases public awareness regarding council activities relating to town growth.

Deputy Mayor Dale Shippelt supported the idea, saying it increases accountability to get things done.

“The previous council met with different developers, and there was a feeling that things were happening behind closed doors,” he said. “This committee bylaw puts more emphasis on making sure things happen.”

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The formalized committee mirrors a 2024 move to expand the Community Events Committee.

The decision by council was to cease providing grants to individual initiatives on a case-by-case basis, but instead have community events in town be supported more exclusively by the Community Events Committee.

Two years later, council has indicated the committee’s efforts have borne fruit.

“I think we’re catching some real momentum,” says Councillor Kevin Stalker. “There’s value in bringing the community together to change the narrative to that we’re a community that’s welcoming, open, and supports one another.”

Council approved The Community Growth Committee at its Jan. 6 meeting.

Before committee appointments were finalized, Councillor Trevor Kalyn said he counted himself out of being on the committee due to the potential for perceived conflict of interest concerns. Kalyn questioned whether the mayor should take stock of similar potential vested interest concerns.

“I feel I can be objective [in this committee],” said Mayor Shane Boniface, who indicated he’s no longer involved in operating his business, and that he’s focused on community growth from the mayor’s seat.

Along with Boniface, council appointed Deputy Mayor Dale Shippelt, as well as councillor Ken Moesker to The Community Growth Committee with councillor Justin Sinclair as an alternate.