Following a longstanding desire among residents, a Rocky Mountain House town councillor is taking on the task of trying to bring a Walmart store to town.

Councillor Dale Shippelt — who is also part of the town’s economic growth committee — has been in contact with Walmart Canada executives in an effort to bring one to town.

However, Mayor Shane Boniface says they’ve faced some early challenges in the bid. Boniface says Walmart typically only builds supercentres now — requiring a minimum population of 80,000.

Rocky had a population of about 7,885 in 2024.

Even though the town has brought Rocky’s status as a hub for a sprawling region to Walmart’s attention — including its role serving a large contingent of seasonal tourists — Boniface says Rocky still does not meet the new requirement.

This marks the second time the town has reached out to the company, as efforts in the 2010s saw Walmart officials visit the town to explore feasibility. However, Boniface says the bid ultimately failed.

Boniface admits he has mixed feelings about the potential arrival of Walmart. He says that while he was elected to represent the wishes of Rocky residents, he prefers to shop at local businesses, pointing out that Walmart is an American company.

In conversations with citizens, he estimates it’s about a 50-50 split between those who would welcome a big-box store and those who believe Rocky doesn’t need one.

The desire for expanded shopping options — including Walmart — was reflected in a recent survey. Some respondents argued that attracting a big-box retailer would benefit the local economy rather than harm it, saying people are travelling to Sylvan Lake and Red Deer to access expanded shopping options.

Along with a wish for more shopping, residents also raised concerns about a perceived lack of growth, crime and public safety, and dwindling prospects for youth.

On the positive side, survey respondents said they value Rocky’s small-town feel, access to recreation services, proximity to the mountains and strong support for local businesses.

Boniface says he’s committed to keeping the public up to date on the issue and welcomes the public’s calls and emails with comments and concerns.

“I want to hear their voices.”