Rocky Mountain House administration is expressing satisfaction after a strong public response to its recent Strategic Plan Survey, which identified clear priorities for council to consider over the next 10 years.

In total, 383 residents completed the survey, which asked what they like about Rocky Mountain House, what could be improved and what council should not ignore.

Overall, respondents said they value Rocky’s small-town feel, access to recreation services and proximity to family and friends. Many also cited affordable living, closeness to the mountains and strong support for local businesses.

However, residents generally raised concerns about perceived lack of growth, crime and public safety, and dwindling prospects for youth which some respondents said is causing them to move away to other towns and cities.

Others commented on a perceived lack of local shopping options, with some expressing frustration that residents are spending money in Sylvan Lake and Red Deer.

Some respondents argued that attracting a big-box retailer could benefit the local economy rather than harm it.

“We need a Wal-Mart or Costco to keep people shopping in town. People shop in Sylvan and buy from all the local shops there,” read one comment.

When asked what worries them most about the next 10 years, respondents most frequently cited rising costs and taxes (27.6 per cent) and insufficient growth (20.6 per cent).

 

Open-ended question draws significant response

The fifth and final question — asking what council should not ignore — generated extensive feedback.

Many respondents said council must not overlook the needs of youth and the perceived lack of job opportunities.

“We have nothing for the youth and young adults. They leave and travel outside of our community to do activities and socialize,” read one response.

“The current 14, 15, 16 and 17 year olds will be voting in the next election. They are also the ones you want to stay in the community. Pay attention to the youth as they will be who directs the future,” read another.

Residents also urged council to prioritize growth, with some pointing to development in Blackfalds, Sylvan Lake and Drayton Valley as examples to follow.

Another respondent said council should not ignore aging infrastructure, suggesting it focus on shoring up existing systems rather than building new ones.

Recreation was another recurring concern. One resident said a lack of amenities is pushing growing families to Red Deer and making it more difficult for older residents to age in place.

Some respondents raised concerns about immigration affecting the community’s small-town character, while others said council should not ignore what they described as growing racism in the community.

After reviewing the flurry of responses, Coun. Dale Shippelt asked whether the comments could be summarized to assist council’s decision-making.

While he expressed appreciation for the feedback, Mayor Shane Boniface noted that some concerns fall outside the jurisdiction of municipal government.

Town developing new Strategic Plan

The survey, launched in January, is intended to guide council as it drafts a new Strategic Plan.

The town’s current Strategic Plan — adopted in 2024 and set to expire in 2026 — is built around five pillars of community development: economic, social, environmental, cultural and governance.

Council is expected to consider adopting the new Strategic Plan on March 13, 2026.

You can view the entire results here.