Communications Awards
In 2013, the Town Of Okotoks Communications business centre, won a Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) Gold Award of Excellence in the Government Relations category for the My Okotoks – Water & Growth Public Consultation project. The project was an extensive consultation and education process that was designed to inform residents of the water and growth options as well as for the Town to gather feedback from citizens. The CPRS awards recognize and reward outstanding public relations programs and projects from across the country.
Communications also received a Golden Quill Merit Award was also received from the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) in the Government Communications Programs category for the My Okotoks – Water & Growth Public Consultation project. The IABC Golden Quill Awards recognize and award excellence in strategic communications worldwide, making it the only awards program that honours the dedication, innovations and passion of communicators on a global scale.
Drake Landing Solar Community Achieves New World Record!
In 2013, after 6 years of operation, the Drake Landing Solar Community reached a new world record by providing 98% of the 52 homes’ space heating needs with solar thermal energy!
The Drake Landing Company was recognized by Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources, for receiving the International Energy Agency’s Solar Heating and Cooling (SHC) Award. The SHS recognizes leaders who have significant achievements in solar thermal market development, reducing market barriers, and the demonstration of large-scale projects.
The innovative Drake Landing Solar Community represents the sustainable vision of Okotoks, achieving substantial energy and greenhouse gas reduction while providing an innovative and environmentally friendly housing option for our residents.
The Town of Okotoks works in partnership with Natural Resources Canada, Sterling Homes, United Communities and ATCO Gas on this unique solar energy demonstration project.
Alberta Museums Association (AMA) Leadership Award
The Okotoks Museum and Archives (OMA) won a Leadership Award from the Alberta Museums Association (AMA) for its work in Education. The AMA Leadership Awards are grounded in the belief that excellence, innovation, and creativity form the foundation of outstanding museums. Award categories recognize the exceptional work and innovative thinking in the museum community that contribute to the social, cultural, and educational fabric of Alberta. Award recipients take the lead in creating value, accessibility, and relevance in their communities. Cultural and Historical Services offers a variety of educational programs and exhibits throughout the year which explore history in creative ways.
Communities Choosewell Award
The Town was presented with a Communities Choosewell Award. The award recognized the Town of Okotoks for reducing barriers to healthy living.
Marketing Award
The Town of Okotoks Economic Development team won an Economic Developers of Alberta award for the 2012 Okotoks Visitor Guide. The award is given out annually by the Economic Developers Association of Alberta (EDA). The Okotoks Visitor Guide features information on amenities, services and activities in the Okotoks area, which is widely distributed throughout the region.