On Monday, June 23, Okotoks Town Council approved the results of the 2025 Community Priorities Survey, highlighting the community’s continued satisfaction with life in Okotoks and a shared commitment to thoughtful planning for future growth. Key areas to consider in improving the quality of life of residents include road infrastructure and recreation planning. The survey marks a key milestone in gathering resident input to shape the Town’s future direction.
“Okotoks continues to thrive as a place where people feel connected, supported, and optimistic about the future,” said Mayor Tanya Thorn. “This survey reinforces that our residents value the quality of life here. How they move through the community and the recreation amenities available must be key focus areas as the community grows. This feedback aligns with work currently in progress on the Transportation Master Plan and scope, scale & costs for a recreation centre expansion.”
Key findings include:
- 99% of respondents rated their quality of life in Okotoks as good, very good, or acceptable, well above the provincial benchmark of 82%.
- 20% of respondents expressed concerns about population growth and Town expansion.
- 63% of residents feel they receive good or very good value from Town programs, services, and amenities, well-above the provincial benchmark of 45%.
- Roughly 60% of respondents are satisfied with the quality and frequency of communications from the Town, with retired residents reporting higher satisfaction levels.
- 57% of residents say they are likely to participate in online community engagement opportunities, 32% expressing interest with more in-person options.
- Over 50% of residents would like to see more opportunities to share their input on Town decisions.
Survey Methodology
In spring 2025, the Town of Okotoks engaged research firm Advanis to conduct the 2025 Community Priorities Survey. The goal was to gather statistically valid input from residents on quality of life, satisfaction with municipal services, and preferred methods of communication and engagement. The survey received 1,213 responses, representing a 72.6% increase from the 2022 Citizen Satisfaction Survey.
“This survey is an important check-in with the community,” said Elaine Vincent, Chief Administrative Officer. “It will guide both Council and Administration in shaping priorities and action plans that directly reflect what residents have told us. While overall quality of life remains high, we’ve heard clearly that managing growth and investing in future infrastructure must remain top priorities.”
The final report is available online at ShapeOurTown.Okotoks.ca.