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Governance and Priorities Committee Meeting
Moments of Reflection
A special recognition was held for Chestermere Olympic gold medallists Brett Gallant and Ben Hebert. Remarks were shared by MP David Bexte, along with a message from MLA Chantelle de Jonge and comments from the Chestermere Curling Club.
Certificates and congratulatory cards were presented, recognizing their achievements at the 2026 Winter Games and their connection to Chestermere.
Rescinding Motion No. 260120-06 – Procedural Bylaw Review
The Committee rescinded Motion No. 260120-06, as its intent is being addressed through the ongoing Procedural Bylaw review (Bylaw No. 001-26). This allows Administration to close the item and avoid duplication.
Chestermere–Calgary Intermunicipal Development Plan – Terms of Reference
The Committee accepted the Terms of Reference for the Chestermere–Calgary Intermunicipal Development Plan update for information. The document outlines collaboration between both municipalities, including project scope, guiding principles, roles, decision-making processes, engagement expectations and dispute resolution, in advance of the November 2027 deadline.
Secondary Suites Land Use Bylaw Amendments
The Committee recommended prohibiting secondary suites on front-loading lots with less than 11.0 metres of frontage under Bylaw No. 040-25. The amendment responds to parking and site constraints while maintaining flexibility in other areas.
Aspenmere Drive–Paradise Road Connection Options
The Committee accepted the report for information. It highlights the long-term need for an additional north-south route in Westmere and outlines consideration such as land acquisition, right-of-way constraints, utility impacts and required approvals.
Community Standards Bylaw
An update was accepted for information. Proposed changes include clarifying sign regulations, defining “obstruct,” and strengthening fireworks enforcement.
Emergency Advisory Committee Composition
The Committee received an update on the Emergency Advisory Committee as the City transitions to a Chestermere-led emergency management program. Structural options were presented, including a recommended twice-yearly meeting schedule aligned with Governance and Priorities Committee meetings.
Economic Development Strategy Framework – Progress Update
The Committee accepted the progress update for information. Five strategic themes were confirmed, including business growth, investment attraction and tourism. Priority development corridors and resource needs were also identified.
Water Restrictions Update
An update was received for information. Rehabilitation of Calgary’s Bearspaw feeder main remains on track for early April completion. Chestermere continues to follow Stage 4 regional restrictions, with water use within sustainable levels.
School Sites Update
The Committee received an update for information. Construction continues on the K–9 Catholic school, and the K–9 public school is moving toward the construction phase. Planning is also underway for the future high school. The FrancoSud School Division is now operating in Chestermere, with early discussions on future site needs.
Recreation Update
The Committee received an update for information. Improvements at Lakeside Greens Golf Course are underway, including bridge replacement on Hole 6, clubhouse flooring upgrades and positive feedback on new food and beverage services. Membership is trending upward, with a community-led fundraising event planned for April.
Committee Updates
The Governance and Priorities Committee accepted all Council committee updates for information, highlights include:
- Ongoing strategic planning within the Lake & Water Advisory Committee
- Increased membership and activity at the Chamber of Commerce
- Continued policy and financial review work by the Library Board.
- Strong engagement from the Seniors Advisory Committee, with early identification of service and accessibility gaps for older adults
- Recreation Committee work on the Recreation Master Plan and exploration of unstructured recreation opportunities
- Ongoing heritage asset identification by the Municipal Heritage Advisory Committee
Councillors also shared updates from regional and provincial tables, including Alberta Municipalities, with a focus on areas such as health, social wellbeing, policing, justice, emergency management, and water infrastructure.
Additional updates included work by Community Futures Wild Rose, the Alberta Water Council’s new source water risk assessment tool, and continued collaboration with local partners such as the RCMP and school divisions.
Collectively, the updates reflect strong momentum across committees as they prepare for spring initiatives and upcoming strategic discussions.
The City also noted that several committee vacancies are now open for public appointment, providing residents with an opportunity to get involved and contribute to community decision-making. Current openings include:
- Police Communications Committee
- Grant Adjudication Committee
- Lake and Watershed Advisory Committee
- Assessment Review Board
- Recreation Committee
Closed Session Motions
The Committee directed the Mayor to write a letter to the Calgary Flames Foundation regarding a proposed non-profit hub in Chestermere.