The Town of Okotoks is pleased to announce that Council has approved the Social Needs Assessment & Strategy as a planning document, marking a major milestone in shaping a more inclusive, affordable and connected community. This community-driven plan outlines strategic priorities and actions designed to enhance social well-being and support all residents as Okotoks continues to change and grow.
"This strategy gives us a clear roadmap to turn community voices into real action," said Mayor Tanya Thorn. "It will help guide decisions, inform policies, and prioritize investments that strengthen affordability, accessibility, and connection across Okotoks."
“The strategy is a direct reflection of our residents’ lived experiences,” said Sian Anderson, community and social development team lead for the Town of Okotoks. “It offers a path forward that is both practical and visionary, focused on building a town where everyone can thrive.”
Developed over nine months, the strategy is grounded in extensive community engagement, including input from over 1,300 residents and partnering organizations. Engagement activities included focus groups, workshops, community conversations, surveys and outreach events, ensuring that voices from across the community were heard—particularly youth, seniors, newcomers and vulnerable populations.
Key Social Priorities Identified:
- Community Affordability
- Accessibility and Inclusive Services
- Strengthening Community Connections
- Community Awareness and Engagement
- Growing in a Way that Supports Everyone
Highlights from Community Engagement:
- Over 1,300 individuals engaged.
- More than 400 youth voices contributed through surveys, focus groups and workshops.
- Over 200 participants took part in community conversations.
- Strong support for priorities such as affordability (85%), accessibility (86%), connection (90%), engagement (95%) and inclusive growth (88%).
Next Steps: The approval of the strategy paves the way for a phased approach to implementation:
- Short-term actions will focus on increased access to information, building community capacity and exploring quick wins for affordability and inclusivity and the development of a social policy framework.
- Medium and long-term strategies will involve cross-sector collaboration, alignment with existing municipal plans and supporting community-driven solutions.
The Town extends its deepest thanks to all residents and partners who contributed their time, experiences and insights. This plan is only possible because of all the community involvement and commitment to making Okotoks a place where everyone feels they belong.
For more details and updates on next steps, visit: https://shapeourtown.okotoks.ca/social-needs-assessment