As a proud resident and mayoral candidate for Okotoks, I want to speak openly about one of the most pressing issues facing our town: population growth and how we manage it.
Currently, the Town of Okotoks has a growth plan that targets a 3–4% growth. Growth is a normal part of any town, but how fast and how big we grow should match what the people living here want and need.
Included in the town’s plan is a significant expansion of high-density housing. Around 40% of new developments are slated to be high-density. That’s a big change for our town, and it’s something we really need to talk about.
Let me be clear: growth in and of itself is not the enemy. But it must be smart, sustainable, and community-driven. That’s why I’m advocating for a more measured approach. I support capping population growth closer to 1% annually, and reducing the share of high-density housing in new developments.
Why this change?
1. Strain on Services and Infrastructure
Okotoks is already feeling the pressure. It feels like we are outgrowing roads, schools, emergency services, recreation center, and healthcare facilities. Adding 3-4% growth will only cause further strain. Growing too fast without upgrading infrastructure and services puts a lot of strain on the town. Slowing things down gives us a chance to catch up, plan properly, and keep the great quality of life we all enjoy.
2. Preserving the Character of Okotoks
People choose to live in Okotoks for a reason, and it’s not to be a bedroom community with the density of a major city. The vast majority of residents move here for the space, the community feel, and the opportunity to live in single-family homes with yards, privacy, and a strong connection to their neighbourhood. High-density housing has a place, but not as 40% of all new development.
3. Realities of Commuting and Transit
Some argue that high-density housing is necessary to offer a mix of housing choices for different needs. But let’s be realistic: for those who rely on public transit, Okotoks isn’t currently equipped to be a practical alternative to Calgary. We have minimal public transit options and a long commute to the city core, which adds up in both time and cost. For many who need or prefer high-density, urban living, Calgary is often the more suitable choice, not Okotoks.
That doesn’t mean we exclude everyone who wants or needs a different housing type. It means we prioritize smart planning, the kind that protects our infrastructure, maintains our community feel, and respects the reasons people choose Okotoks in the first place.
A Vision for the Future
If elected mayor, I will work to:
- Aim to keep population growth around 1% each year
- Focus new housing on single-family and medium-density homes, not high-rise or packed-in developments
- Make sure roads, schools, and other services are upgraded before we approve any big new developments
- Ensure residents feel that they have a voice in shaping the future of our community
Okotoks is at a crossroads. We can either grow fast and lose what makes this town special, or we can grow wisely, in a way that honours our past and builds a sustainable future.
The choice is ours. Let’s choose wisely.
Colin Langenberger
Mayoral Candidate for Okotoks
Count on Colin!
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