It’s been an eventful year for Rocky View County.
Council made decisions regarding controversial developments, such as the Springbank residential community of Harmony, the Bragg Creek water and wastewater treatment projects and the Bingham Crossing mall, raising ire among many residents.
Distrust seemed to reach a peak after a cease and desist order was issued against current Councillor Al Sacuta, who was then a vocal opponent of Rocky View, through his website.
Shortly after, Rocky View faced a grassroots petition from west Rocky View residents threatening to separate.
The Reeve’s Task Force on Growth, chaired by local resident Stan Church, was formed to address these and other concerns prior to the election.
In October, residents had their say and a new council was formed. There were many changes.
Long-time Reeve, Lois Habberfield, was acclaimed but lost her leadership position to newcomer Rolly Ashdown.
Council lost several veteran members including councillors Hopeton Louden and Jim Rheubottom.
Retiring councillors Gordon Branson, Mitch Yurchak and Harvey Buckley were replaced by a new set of councillors, including Rick Butler, Margaret Bahcheli and Al Sacuta, creating a whole new style of council for Rocky View County.
Ongoing council initiatives addressing the future of Rocky View, such as the amenities study, Parks and Open Space Plan, Agricultural Master Plan and Reeve’s Task Force findings, promise months of key decisions for residents.
We are hopeful the new council enjoys a relaxing Christmas and rings in 2011 with a commitment to hard work, sustainability, transparency and a regard for residents’ opinions.
