Spring 2026 Update

Hello,

I hope everyone’s 2026 has been off to a good start and folks are staying safe during these weather changes. I wanted to reach out with a brief note on some timely activities in the County.

Have your Say! Resident Satisfaction Survey.

You may already be aware that Rocky View County has launched its biennial Citizen Satisfaction Survey. Residents will be receiving a postcard in the mail with a unique PIN and can participate in the survey online, over the phone, or by mail. 

The survey is available now and will stay open until Sunday, March 22, 2026. All responses are anonymous and are analysed by an independent organisation with a final report summary being presented to Council in April.

I encourage each of you to participate and voice your opinions; your insights will guide us in making informed decisions that enhance our quality of life in Rocky View County.

For more information, check out the Citizen Satisfaction Survey website. 

West Cochrane Burnco Gravel Pit.

Next month, the Environmental Appeals Board will be reviewing the decision by Alberta Environment and Protected Areas to issue Water Act approval that permits Burnco to operate, remove, and distribute works, water and vegetation at multiple sites along the Bow River just west of Cochrane - all of which permit them to extract gravel from below the water table. 

Burnco owns or controls approximately 1,110 acres along the north shore of the Bow River within Division 3 of Rocky View County. They currently operate approximately 150 acres for a gravel extraction plant, gravel washing pit, and asphalt plant. At this time, Rocky View County has not approved land use for the remaining 960 acres. 

Many community members have expressed concerns regarding the presence of heavy metals and elevated dissolved solids in monitoring samples. There is apprehension about these contaminants potentially affecting both the Bow River and local well water. While Burnco and provincial officials maintain that thorough studies and necessary conditions are in place to safeguard our environment, I understand the community's desire for clarity and assurance.

In response to these concerns, the Alberta Environmental Appeals Board has scheduled a hearing for March 11-13, 2026. This virtual hearing aims to address the appeal regarding Burnco’s Water Act Approval. On January 6, Council directed Administration to submit a request to the EAB for Rocky View County to participate in the hearing to ensure that environmental risks are sufficiently identified and addressed in accordance with the Water Act. 

Access to watch the appeal hearing will be made available to members of the public on a request-basis. If you would like to request a link to watch the hearing you can email: eab@gov.ab.ca. 

As your Councillor, I am committed to advocating for our community’s interests and ensuring that all voices are heard. I will continue to monitor the developments surrounding this project closely and keep you updated on any significant findings or opportunities for involvement.

Stay Connected.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at awhiting@rockyview.ca should you wish to connect with me on a county matter. Wishing you all a wonderful week.