The Town of Okotoks has released its comprehensive Growth Strategy, setting a clear road map for development that reflects our community’s distinct identity. As the community evolves, this strategy will guide future growth to align with the aspirations of residents and strengthen community connections, local opportunity, and quality of life, while also accommodating population and economic shifts.
“By planning with intention, we can guide growth in a way that protects the unique character of our community, supports housing affordability, and shares the responsibility for infrastructure improvements,” said Mayor Tanya Thorn. “This growth strategy supports decision making that considers multiple perspectives – helping us grow in a way that enhances quality of life for today and tomorrow’s residents.”
The strategy is designed to facilitate thoughtful decision-making around growth and build on the things that matter most to residents: strong sense of community, affordability, natural beauty and inclusive opportunities. It sets a path to build our community following the Town’s five growth principles:
- Socially Connected: Design neighbourhoods and public spaces that foster a sense of belonging, encourage community gathering, and reflect Okotoks’ unique character, ensuring all residents feel welcome and engaged.
- Retain & Nurture a Strong Local Economy: Balance residential and business development to broaden our tax base, support local jobs, and reduce future pressure on residential property taxes, creating a resilient economy that benefits everyone.
- Environmental Stewards: Prioritize sustainable growth by protecting natural areas, promoting green building practices, and supporting active transportation options, ensuring Okotoks remains a healthy and beautiful place for generations.
- Complete & Integrated Communities: Offer diverse housing choices and accessible amenities, connect neighborhoods with safe walking, rolling, and transit options, and create vibrant spaces that support daily life and community connections.
- Strategic & Adaptive: Decisions about infrastructure and services are guided by changing needs and careful planning, so both existing and new neighborhoods enjoy reliable water, roads, and community amenities—now and into the future.
This strategy is about more than just buildings and roads—it is rooted in Okotoks’ community values, ensuring growth enhances the well-being of every resident and reflects what makes our town unique. It demonstrates the Town’s commitment to keeping Okotoks a place where people of all ages and backgrounds can live well, do business and thrive.
