ALBERTA FOOTHILLS
& BUSINESS INVESTMENT & Site Selection Guide Town of Black Diamond • M.D. of Foothills • Town of High River • Town of Okotoks • Town of Turner Valley •
A Business Development Initiative of the Alberta Foothills Region
www.albertafoothills.ca
Welcome to the Foothills Region In the quiet of the dawn of new days, the first light paints itself across the snowpack clinging to the face of the Rocky Mountains to the west. The green grasses bend away from the breeze, over a washboard of rolling hills as far as the eye can see. Our common geography the Foothills Region of Southern Alberta - is inspired and inspiring. From artist to entrepreneur to movie industry to new resident drawn by its beauty, a vibrant, growing and prosperous economy has emerged. The bounds of opportunity live on imagination’s terms. Today, more than 51,000 people live in our five communities - the M.D. of Foothills #31 and the towns of Okotoks, High River, Turner Valley and Black Diamond. Population growth exceeds the Alberta average. Investment opportunity abounds. The Foothills Region has come together to embolden pursuit of opportunity sympathetic to the physical endurance of a geography that counts among the world’s special places. Our common goal is to promote responsible, innovative, prosperous, and sustainable development of our region. RISE is a descriptor of people, place, aspiration and direction. It is an expression of our passion for this place we call ’home’.
Table of Contents Welcome
2
The Foothills Region at a Glance
3-5
The Calgary Region
6-7
Investment Targets
8-11
The Foothills Region: Industry Profile
12
Business Resources
13
Real Estate
14
Finance
15
Tourism Infrastructure
16-17
M.D. of Foothills
18-20
Town of Okotoks
21-24
Town of High River
25-27
Town of Turner Valley
28-30
Town of Black Diamond
31-34
Alberta Foothills Region at a Glance CONNECTIVITY Road access: convenient access to two of Canada’s primary highway networks Highway 2 Canamex Corridor, linking north / south corridors from northern Alberta to Mexico TransCanada - Highway 1, linking west and east corridors from coast to coast across Canada Highway 22 - “the Cowboy Trail” - a scenic and convenient route along Alberta’s Foothills Highway 7, east / west access to Highway 22 south to Crowsnest Pass and B.C. Highway 549, access to Millarville, Bragg Creek and Highway 1 to Banff Distance to: Calgary- south city limits: approximately 25 km Downtown Calgary: 60 km Calgary International Calgary International Airport - 65-100 km Edmonton - 325 to 375 km U.S. border - 230 to 290 km
Population 59,050 Residential Structures
Air
Calgary International Airport - 45-60 minutes north Regional airports: Okotoks, High River 3000 ft. lit runways for light aircraft
Rail
Canadian Pacific Railway—mainline/spur access in Okotoks, and M.D. of Foothills, Aldersyde industrial corridor between Okotoks and High River
Greyhound Service, commuter bus service daily from Okotoks, High River, Turner Valley, Black Diamond Courier Full courier services Internet High speed Internet commonly available
Quick Facts (2010)
22,675
Bus
CLIMATE Min. Max. Month temp. temp. (C) (C) January -15 -3 February -12 0 March -8 4 April -2 11 May 3 16 June 7 20 July 9 23 August 9 23 September 4 18 October -1 12 November -9 3 December -13 -1 Source: Environment Canada
Min. temp. (F) 5 10 18 28 38 45 49 49 39 30 16 8
Max. Temp. (F) 27 32 39 52 62 68 73 73 64 37 37 30
Average hours of sunshine per day Average number of Chinook days per year Number of frost free days
Housing Starts
6.34 25
602
112
Annual mean rainfall
300 mm (11.8 inches)
Annual mean snowfall
153 cm (60 inches)
Annual mean precipitation
42 cm (16.7 inches)
Number of days with precipitation
113
Climate severity index
Calgary Victoria Range: 1 (very mild) to 100 Vancouver (very severe) Winnipeg Toronto Source: Environment Canada
34 13 18 51 35
Construction Value $275 million # Registered Businesses 3,500 3
The Foothills Region
4
The Region at a Glance Black Diamond (population 2,308) Beauty, country charm, and a historic main street characterize this community. Located 35 minutes southwest of Calgary adjacent to the Sheep River, amidst the steep foothills that rise to meet the Rocky Mountains, locals and visitors alike are drawn to recreational and cultural activities, a comfortable lifestyle, and a stunning location.
Municipal District (M.D.) of Foothills # 31 (population 19,736) A 3600 sq. km municipality bordering Calgary’s southern city limits and extending 100 km south, the M.D. typifies the best of all worlds with its proximity to urban amenity amidst a peaceful rural atmosphere. With an emphasis on gracious family living, the M.D. features beautiful residential developments, world-class golf courses, a Highway 2 industrial corridor that will serve as a significant employment generator and spectacular scenery extending from the Rocky Mountains, through steeply rolling foothills, out onto Alberta’s prairie.
High River (population 11,783) Located along the Highwood River 30 minutes south of Calgary on Highway 2, High River is a sub-regional service centre with a diversified economy driven by construction, oil and gas, manufacturing, and agriculture. As a lifestyle community, a progressive business environment is enhanced by the strong presence of arts and culture, and heritage.
Okotoks (population 23,200) Located 15 minutes south of Calgary in the Sheep River valley in the heart of the Alberta Foothills, the Town of Okotoks is a youthful, vibrant and friendly community. Alberta’s youngest, and one of Canada’s fastest growing, communities, Okotoks offers full services, diverse recreational amenity, and substantial opportunity in a rapidly growing business sector. A commitment to sustainable development practices is at the heart of the community.
Turner Valley (population 2,022) Turner Valley is a picturesque community lying at the base of the Rocky Mountains only 35 minutes from Calgary. The community reflects the essence of small town values - offering economic opportunity in tandem with lifestyle and environment emphasis. A primary gateway to Kananaskis Country, a myriad of outdoor recreation options are available. 5
The Calgary Region 1 Cost of Business Calgary is among the most cost competitive cities in the world for the cost of establishing and operating a business. The 2006 KPMG Competitive Alternatives study showed that Calgary has a 5.3% operating cost advantage over the United States. It’s the third least expensive of major Canadian cities in which to do business, and in comparison to large international cities outside Canada, Calgary comes in second place only to Singapore.
Calgary’s Key Industries Energy - Calgary is home to the majority of Canada’s oil and gas production companies, major pipeline operators, oilfield service and drilling companies, energy-related engineering and consulting firms, and headquarters to major North American pipeline and energy distribution companies. Canada's largest concentration of investor owned electric power generation companies are based in Calgary. Finance and Business Services - Of the 34,200 new jobs created in Alberta in the finance and business sector over the past 10 years, more than 56% of these jobs are in the Calgary Region. Transportation and Logistics - The gross domestic product (GDP) created by Calgary's transportation and logistics sector has grown by 30.7% over the past five years (2002-2006). Technology - Calgary is home to the largest number of technology start ups per capita in Canada. Manufacturing - Calgary's manufacturing GDP increased by 18% over the past 5 years (2002-2006) and is forecasted to increase an additional 21% over the next 5 years (2007-2012). Film - In 2004, film activity in the Calgary Region reflected approximately $130 million in Calgary-based production - an estimated 80% of the provincial share of film activity. Aerospace - an emerging industry.
Alberta's Positive Business Climate and Recent Growth 2 The lowest overall taxes in Canada. No provincial sales tax. No general capital or payroll taxes prevalent in other provinces and U.S. A debt-free provincial government. A highly skilled, educated and motivated workforce that is the most productive in Canada. Over $103 billion in major capital projects proposed, announced, under construction or recently completed (2004). A 200% increase in exports of goods and services to $90.1 billion between 1996 and 2006. Investment per capita of $22,296 in 2006, more than twice the national average. A 400% increase in investment since 1996 - to $75.3 billion in 2006 Creation of 465,000 new jobs between 1996 and 2006. The lowest unemployment rate in Canada in 2006, at 3.4%. Over the past decade, Alberta had the highest rate of economic growth in Canada at 4.3% per year. The Alberta economy led the nation for a third consecutive year in 2006, growing by 6.8%. Economic growth is forecast to be 4.3% in 2007 and 3.9% in 2008.
Economic Facts Of all major Canadian cities Calgary has… The lowest 5-year average annual unemployment rate, at 5.0%. The highest labour force growth in 2006 at 7.1%. The highest growth in retail sales in 2006 at 15.2%. The highest growth in housing starts for 2006 at 24.7%. The highest personal income per capita at $47,178 in 2006. A number 1 ranking in real GDP growth in 2006 at an estimated 6.9%.
Calgary is… Forecasted to be the location for over one third of all new jobs in Alberta. Forecasted to require approximately 90,000 new jobs over the next five years and 158,000 in the next 10 years - the highest of any economic region in Canada. Calgary has… The highest concentration of head office employment in Canada (on a per capita basis).
6
A REGION OF DISTINCTION... The Alberta Foothills Region No Business Tax Surcharge. Competitive tax and utility rates and high amenity and services levels provided for tax dollars. Location, Location, Location - to major urban centres, transportation corridors, and the U.S. Lifestyle Edge - high growth environment, high per capita amenity and full urban services with the benefits of smaller community atmosphere.
The Alberta Foothills Region,
Quality of Investment - Okotoks and High River tied for 6th best place to invest in real estate in Alberta in 2006.3
Calgary Calgary is ranked first in Canada and third in North America (2007) as “most attractive to people,” based on rankings in seven indicators: economy, innovation, environment, education, health, society and housing.4
Alberta5 Attractive Economy - in 2006, Alberta had the fastest growing provincial economy in Canada, creating 86,300 jobs. Alberta leads all other provinces in growth in population, retail sales, housing starts and per capita investment. Cost Advantages - Alberta cities rank among the most cost competitive in the world when it comes to the cost of establishing and operating a business, according to studies released by KPMG Consulting (The Competitive Alternatives International Report). This study measures and ranks the combined impact of 27 location-sensitive cost factors for 17 types of business operations across 128 cities in nine countries. Edmonton and Calgary rank second and fourth, respectively, among 21 large Midwest U.S. and Western Canadian locations. Alberta has the lowest overall tax system in Canada and it is the only province without a provincial retail sales tax. Infrastructure - modern infrastructure in Alberta includes advanced technology, extensive transportation networks, quality education and training facilities, superior research and development and competitively priced commercial and industrial real estate. Quality of Life - affordable cost of living, and world-class educational and health care facilities contribute to Alberta's superior quality of life. A strong economy combined with Alberta's diverse landscape, stunning scenery, low crime, and clean air and water, all contribute to making Alberta one of the best places in Canada and the world in which to live, work or visit.
Calgary, and Alberta, offer key competitive advantages for enterprise. "Alberta is in the midst of the strongest period of economic growth ever recorded by any Canadian province." (Statistics Canada, 2006)
7
T a r g e t s
“Our investment targets reflect the competitive advantage, values, and aspirations, of the Foothills Region.”
• • • • •
Agriculture Value Added/Processing Alternative Energy Tourism Information Technology Products and Services Environmental Products and Services
The Alberta Foothills Region is working to create economic opportunities based on core community values: •
Sustainable infrastructure and development
•
Preservation of, and reduced impact on, the environment
•
Development that preserves, and reflects, our heritage
•
The nurturing of a strong social fabric - from recreation, to arts and culture, to health and wellness
8
BUILDING COMMUNITIES KEY TARGET INDUSTRIES Agriculture Value Added / Processing Alberta's food processing sector is one of the largest manufacturing sectors in the province. In the past five years, over $1 billion has been invested in Alberta by some of the world's top food processing companies; with only 10% of the population, Alberta accounts for 21% of Canada's total farm cash receipts.6 Alberta’s strategic location, transportation infrastructure and extensive and diverse agriculture staples base crop industry are well-positioned to be further leveraged with investment in value-added activity. The M.D. of Foothills has a thriving and extensive agricultural base with ready access to Calgary and its superior global transportation linkages. Investment opportunities exist in organic foods, processing, horticulture (flowers, bulbs, berry crops, nurseries, specialty crops and processing), food processing, and food production. Growth of this sector supports sustainability with its encouragement of a grow local and eat local ethic—particularly horticultural activity. Value-added processing of raw materials at its source is more energy efficient. Social sustainability is encouraged via preservation of a rural lifestyle and associated economic activity in the Foothills Region. “As oil prices continue to rise and the Anchors companies located in the region cost of alternatives continues to fall with Cargill Foods (established 1989) - beef processor, employs 2,000 Highwood Distillers (established 1976) - production of broad line of distilled spirits, employs 35 Rollover Premium Food - production of premium pet food, employs 49 Anna’s of North America (established 2002) - cookie factory, international company
Alternative Energy
further technical advances, it seems likely that carbon fuels will no longer be the main energy source in two to three decades. 2020 +/- 5 years is the serious beginning of this transition period, when 30% of all global energy is most likely to be derived from alternative sources.” (TechCast—the Virtual Think Tank, 2007)
The total clean-energy market will grow to $92 billion by 2013, about seven times its current size of $13 billion.7 All "alternative" sources (nuclear, wind, solar, hydro, biomass) now comprise about 17% of global energy use (11% excluding nuclear energy). Alternative energy is growing 30% per year, backed by wide public support and strong corporate investment.8 The Foothills Region’s pursuit of the sector in the form of manufacturing, research and development, and installation, leverages and extends Alberta’s reputation and expertise as an energy leader. Targeted activities are solar, wind, geo-thermal and bio-fuels.
Our Common Values
Anchor: Western Bio-Diesel Inc—Operational quarter 1, 2008
Balance ratio of residential and non-residential assessment
Enhance quality of life
Low environmental impact, high positive community impact of development
Preserve geographic beauty that attracts people to live, and to visit
Accommodate growth in a sustainable way
Reduce commuter ratio
Maintain small town atmosphere
Maintain and enhance sense of place
“The Foothills Region welcomes all forms of investment. However, we know substantial investment is a simple product of population growth. Our targets reflect emerging industries we are working to accelerate relative to other economic activity in the Region.”
Tourism Alberta’s tourism industry is a $5 billion dollar business annually.9 It’s built on physical beauty, and cultural and recreational amenity. It requires attraction and support infrastructure. The Foothills Region is a place of great beauty - of outdoor pursuits. The rolling foothills and mountain gateways are here. More than one million people reside on our doorstep and we view a tourist primarily as a regional day-tripper seeking ‘experiences.’ Opportunities exist to create and support these experiences, including destination shopping and dining, agricultural tourism, eco-tourism, arts and culture, accommodation and outdoor adventure attractions. We’re doing our part by building sustainability into our development equation and by preserving unique small town atmosphere best represented in our vibrant downtowns. 9
BUILDING COMMUNITIES KEY TARGET INDUSTRIES High Tech - Information and Communications Technology Products and Services Knowledge has become the well from which economic and social prosperity is drawn. Information and communications technology (ICT) sector growth has outpaced growth of the broader Canadian economy by 300% since 1997. In a mere decade, ICT has transitioned from economic periphery to a sectoral GDP powerhouse and economic enabler for all sectors of the economy. As a country second only to Korea in broadband connectivity, we are using our newfound sense of connectivity as a source of competitive economic advantage.
480,000 Canadians are employed in the ICT sector (2005). The sector is Canada's top R&D driver, spending $5 billion annually. The sector employs more than 50% of the country's R&D scientists and engineers.
A Role for the Foothills Region Broadband and wireless have broken traditional economic constraints that have restricted opportunity in more rural environments. The Foothills Region will establish itself as a Work-From-Anywhere location by targeting activity that uses readily available broadband infrastructure to establish homebased and commercial space activity in the form of computer and network-based consulting, tele-commuting, software and applications development, and e-commerce.
A high quality of life this cluster is traditionally attracted to and is present locally, and the Calgary Region’s highly skilled labour force and concentration of engineers, are enablers for accelerated growth of this activity in the Foothills Region.
Alberta’s ICT sector includes companies engaged in producing computer equipment and services, software, navigational and medical instruments, semiconductors, and telecommunication equipment and services. Approximately 7,000 ICT companies employ 54,500, and generate an estimated $10 billion in revenues and $2.5 billion in exports (2002). This activity supports sustainability with its low pollution (direct and indirect) form and function. Social and economic sustainability is enhanced with greater ratios of residents at home during the day, and having a higher propensity to purchase locally.
Environmental Products and Services The world market for environmental goods and services was valued at US $515 billion in 2000 and is forecast to increase to US $688 billion by 2010. In the last 10 years, the global markets for environmental goods and services have developed enormously.10 Building the business of environment is already big business, but has entered an explosive growth phase with the emergence of the global warming debate and other consciousness-raising issues increasingly a high priority in the public domain. In the nexus of consumer, industry, and government interests is vast market opportunity Alberta's environmental industry includes 1,100 companies employing 26,000 and generating more than $3 billion in annual revenues. The sector has a wellearned international reputation for excellence in water treatment, waste management and the development of climate change solutions. Rapid growth in Alberta and CDN $137 billion in planned capital investment in the province provides significant investment potential for environmental solutions providers to meet water, wastewater and soil contamination challenges.11 The Town of Okotoks - with its multi-award winning Sustainable Okotoks initiative - positioned itself at the forefront of this trendline more than a decade ago. Today, the Town is considered a leading light in activity devoted to the environment. Other communities in the Region are steadily implementing initiatives. The Foothills Region aims to capitalize on its well-deserved reputation and on-the-ground initiatives, prodigious engineering talent in the Calgary Region, and the backdrop of geographic beauty, to focus on attracting manufacturing, consulting, engineering, and research and development in areas including water, waste, wastewater, recycling, energy efficiency, land remediation and green building products. 10
BUILDING COMMUNITIES -A HOME-RUN INITIATIVETargets: •
Home-Based Business
•
Tele-Commuters
•
High Tech
•
Professional and Technical Services engineering focus, one to two person consulting services firms
Freedom...On Your Own Terms
Economic Sectors Targeted: All sectors Number of Registered Home-Based Businesses in Foothills Region - 1200
in the Foothills Region
Side-step the blur of the rush and work from home in the Foothills Region! If the ‘trend is one’s friend,’ the fact that 80% of job growth in Canada is now generated by small business (less than five employees), and broadband and technology is fundamentally changing the way we work, and where we work, points to vast and growing opportunity to work from home. The Foothills Region has a lifestyle advantage, with small town atmosphere and convenience, high per capita amenity, competitive taxation, utility rates, and other fixed business costs, and readily available broadband infrastructure. Accessibility to the City of Calgary, with its diverse and flexible opportunities, provides the Foothills Region with an opportunity to concentrate an already burgeoning home-based workforce within the Region. People living in the region tend to be motivated by lifestyle choices. Living in/re-locating to the Foothills Region to pursue a home-based employment option, people are naturally inclined to be: • a telecommuter, an entrepreneur, a professional service, a consultant, in the engineering field, a homebased business, and an outdoor enthusiast that spends time in the foothills and the mountains • cherish a sense of space • value family and safety • have children and an active lifestyle • are not motivated by ‘the corporate ladder’
Quick Facts about Home-based business12 2006 •
1,230,350 Canadians work from home • 8% of workforce
2001 •
1,175,000 Canadians work from home • 8% of workforce • 6% of workforce in metropolitan areas (200% increase since 1981) • 64% live in urban areas • 23% live and work on farms.
Over the last 20 years, working at home has become an increasingly urban phenomenon. The proportion of people working at home in census metropolitan areas rose, while the proportion of people working at home outside those areas declined. 46% of micro businesses are homebased. This represents a significant increase from 1996 when only 30% were operated from home. The most likely home-based businesses are agriculture (81%), construction (74%) and business services (47%), with retail being the least likely (15%).13
People who operate a business or tele-commute from home are important to regional sustainability because they: • start new business ventures (reduces carbon footprint of region with more activity being conducted locally rather than regionally). • have expertise that can take advantage of opportunities in environmental industries. • generate social and environment benefits (community safety, reduced commuting and CO2 emissions, local spending) by sticking closer to home. 11
Industry Profile LABOUR FORCE BY INDUSTRY14 2006
LABOUR FORCE BY OCCUPATION14 2006 Resource-based Industries
16%
19%
Construction
M.D. of Foothills
B usiness, Finance & A dministratio n
2%
14%
M anagement
16%
Natural & A pplied Sciences
Manufacturing Retail/Wholesale Trade
20%
12%
Health So cial Science, Educatio n, Go vernment, Religio n
14% 17%
Finance & Real Estate Health Care/Social Services
5% 5% 5%
Educational Services
12%
6%
Sales & Service
17%
Business Services
3% 5% 4%
Trades, Transpo rt, Equipment Operato rs
8%
P rimary Industry
Other Services
P ro cessing, M anufacturing & Utilities
3% 2%
8%
17%
11%
A rt, Culture, Recreatio n, Spo rt
12%
18%
Okotoks
18% 7%
20% 16% 7%
8%
24%
8%
3%
8%
20%
Highest Sector Growth Rates 2001-2005
5%
6%
5%
7%
7%
10%
10% 17%
High River
9%
19% 4%
17%
6%
16% 6%
3% 6%
11%
17%
7% 2%
23%
4%
10%
Turner Valley
10%
17%
25% 7%
4% 2% 15%
5% 10%
14%
15%
9%
20%
3%
11%
4%
2%4%
Construction, Agriculture (M.D. of Foothills) Real Estate, Agriculture (High River) Arts, Entertainment and Recreation, Real Estate (Black Diamond)
13%
19%
Professional, Scientific and Technical Services (all communities)
Retail Trade, Health Care, Education (Okotoks) Mining/Oil and Gas Extraction (Turner Valley)
8% 4%
Black Diamond
5% 19%
21%
6% 2%
32% 6%
3% 10%
1%
11%
26%
12
Business Resources Resourceful Web Links FOOTHILLS REGION
Municipal Governments
Community Futures Highwood 14 McRae Street Okotoks t: 403.995.4151 e:
[email protected] www.cfhighwood.net
Town of Black Diamond Economic Development 301 Centre Avenue W. t: 403.933.4348 f: 403.933.5865 e:
[email protected] www.town.blackdiamond.ab.ca
Programs and Services for new entrepreneurs and existing small business owners including short term Business Office rental space, Business Loans, Business Planning assistance, Business Training opportunities, a Business Resource Library, and programs for entrepreneurs with disabilities and youth. Community Futures Highwood is a nonprofit organization serving a municipal region south of Calgary, and is funded by Western Economic Diversification Canada. Business Programs and Services • loan programs - start-up, expansion, maintenance • business plan development, evaluation and coaching • training programs • one-on-one support • self-employment training • entrepreneurs with disabilities programming • youth business loans and entrepreneur camp
Chambers of Commerce Diamond Valley Chamber of Commerce (Turner Valley, Black Diamond), Longview, Millarville, and surrounding areas) Box 61, Turner Valley, T0L 2A0 e:
[email protected] www.diamondvalleychamber.com High River Chamber of Commerce 149B Macleod Trail SW t: 403.652.3336 f: 403.652.7660 e:
[email protected] www.hrchamber.com Okotoks Chamber of Commerce 14 McRae Street t: 403.938.2848 F: 403.938.6649 e:
[email protected] www.okotokschamber.ca
M.D. of Foothills No. 31 309 Macleod Trail, High River Samantha Payne Economic Development Officer t: 403.603.6252 f: 403.652.7880 e:
[email protected] www.mdfoothills.com Town of High River 309B MacLeod Trail SW Marilyn MacArthur Business & Tourism Development Manager t: 403.652.8624 f: 403.652.2990 e:
[email protected] www.highriver.ca Town of Okotoks 5 Elizabeth Street Shane Olson Economic Development Team Leader t: 403.938.8907 f: 403.938.7387 e:
[email protected] www.okotoks.ca Town of Turner Valley 223 Main Street N.E. t: 403.933.4944 f: 403.933.5377 e:
[email protected] www.turnervalley.ca
All businesses are required to obtain business licenses and relevant development and/or building permits, depending on the nature of the activity. Contact the individual municipalities for further information. Download a detailed Invest in Alberta Guide courtesy the Calgary Regional Partnership, which includes information on business structure, investment, trade, employment and labour regulations, taxation, banking and finance, and practical tips. www.calgaryregion.ca/crp/ (business investment link)
Business Link www.canadabusiness.ca/alberta/main.cfm Government information service for existing and prospective businesses. A single point of access for federal and provincial government services, programs and regulatory requirements for business. Calgary Regional Partnership www.calgaryregion.ca Calgary Economic Development www.calgaryeconomicdevelopment.com Key industry sectors and competitive advantage information. Calgary Real Estate Board www.creb.com Real estate statistics. Community Futures Highwood www.cfhighwood.net Business and economic development services for the foothills region. Foothills Community Immigrant Services www.ccis-calgary.ab.ca Settlement/integration services for southern Alberta immigrants/refugees. McBride Career & Employment Centre www.mcbridecareergroup.com Career and employment services for the foothills region. Alberta Employment, Immigration and Industry www.alberta-canada.com Investment, competitive advantage, and statistical information. Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development www.agric.gov.ab.ca Business and marketing information for agriculture and food processors. Travel Alberta www1.travelalberta.com/en-ab/ Tourism information. Business Development Bank of Canada 1935 32 Ave NE, Calgary t: 403.292.5590 www.bdc.ca Delivers financial, investment and consulting services to Canadian small and medium-sized businesses. 13
Real Estat e OKOTOKS
HIGH RIVER
Axis Realty 110, 102 Elizabeth Street t: 403.630.2165
Century 21 Foothills Real Estate 1103 18 St SE t: 403.652.2121 www.c21foothills.ca
Century 21 199, 31 Southridge Drive t: 403.995.7721 www.c21foothills.ca CIR Realty 2 McRae Street t: 403.995.4200 Discover Real Estate 83 Elizabeth Street t: 403.540.9314 Prairie Managment & Realty Inc. 203, 40 Elizabeth Street t: 403.995.2810 Property Guys.com 115 Westridge Close t: 403.938.1588 R A Berrien Associates Ltd. 103, 315 Woodgate Rd. t: 403.938.2000 Remax Signature Properties 105 Elizabeth Street t: 403.938.3737 www.remax.ca Royal LePage Foothills Real Estate 29 Elizabeth Street t: 403.938.6311 www.foothillsrealestate.ca Sather Real Estate Brokers 88 Elizabeth Street t: 403.938.0588 West Country Management 100 Stockton Avenue t: 403.938.6800
TURNER VALLEY/ BLACK DIAMOND Ken Placsko Realty www,placskorealty.com MaxWell Town & Country Realty 102 Centre Avenue N.E., B. Diamond t: 403.933.4100 www.maxwelltown-country.ca Re/Max Realty 101 Sunset Blvd., S.W., T. Valley t. 403.815.0922 www.remaxhouse.ab.ca
Foothills Lease Rates net/sq. ft. Okotoks (2011)
Coldwell Banker South Realty 415 - 1 St South t: 403.652.3432 www.cbsouthrealty.com
Industrial: $10-12 Downtown Office - $15.00-$20.00 New Office - $20.00 - $28.00 Downtown Retail - $14.00 - $18.00 New Retail - $25.00 - $35.00 plus common area costs Serviced Industrial Land: $450,000$600,000/acre
CIR 618 Centre St SE t: 403.652.3030 J. Ross Real Estate 145 Macleod Tr SW t: .403.652.4020 www.jrossrealestate.com
High River (2010) Office: $12.00-$18.00 Retail: $10.00-$18.00
Remax Southern Realty 4, 28 - 12 Ave SE t: 403.652.5550 www.remax-southern-hr-ab.ca
Serviced Industrial Land: $350,000/acre Calgary (2010)15 Industrial (average net psf): $7.55 Office: $16.77 (suburban) - $32.00 (Class AA downtown) Retail (average): $26.33 Serviced Industrial Land: $550,000$650,000/acre Industrial vacancy rate: 5%
Royal LePage Foothills 5, 938 Centre St SE t: 403.652.4222 www.rlfoothills.com
Average Home Sale Price (2010)16 900000
$797,599
$788,890
$772,415
800000 700000 600000
$ 500000 $460,327 400000
$461,144
$442,327
$375,024
$359,327
$352,704
300000 200000 100000 0 2008
2009
City of Calgary
Surrounding Towns
2010 Country Residential
Calgary: average single family home price, surrounding towns and country residential: average single and multi-family home price
Residential Dwelling Re-Sales (2010)16
Royal LePage 220 Centre Ave. W., B. Diamond t: 403.933.2900 www.rlfoothills.com Style Realty t: 403.264.6122 For residential/commercial real estate listings - www.mls.ca
14
Finance OKOTOKS
HIGH RIVER
BLACK DIAMOND
ATB Financial 131, 31 Southridge Drive t: 403.938.7232 www.atb.com
ATB Financial 5, 28 - 12 Avenue SE t: 403.652.1426 www.atb.com
ATB Financial 122 Centre Avenue t: 403.933.4357 www.atb.com
BMO Bank of Montreal 401, 200 Southridge Drive t: 403.995.4975 www.bmo.com
BMO Bank of Montreal 121 1 Street SW t: 403.652.2378 www.bmo.com
TURNER VALLEY
CIBC 300 Village Lane t: 403.938.4474 www.cibc.com
Bank West 1010 - 24 Street SE t: 403.652.2107 www.bankwest.ca
First Calgary Savings 141, 71 Riverside Drive W t: 403.503.8090 www.1stcalgary.com
CIBC 403 1 Street SW t: 403.652.2022 Toll Free 1.800.465.2422 www.cibc.com
Money Mart 140, 28 Southridge Drive t: 403.630.1347 www.moneymart.ca Raymond James 104, 45 North Railway Street t: 403.938.9715 www.raymondjames.ca RBC Royal Bank 144 Elizabeth Street t: 403.938.4416 www.royalbank.com Servus Credit Union 131, 71 Riverside Drive t: 403.938.8610 www.servus.ca Scotiabank 721, 201 Southridge Drive t: 403.938.4712 www.scotiabank.com TD Canada Trust 160, 28 Southridge Drive t: 403.995.3183 www.td.com
RBC Royal Bank 104 Main Street t: 403.933.4364 www.royalbank.com
RBC Royal Bank 102 3 Avenue SW t: 403.652.2351 Toll Free 1.800.769.2511 www.royalbank.com Scotiabank 40, 30 - 3 Avenue SE t: 403.652.5808 www.scotiabank.com Servus Credit Union 319 Centre Street SW t: 403.652.2919 www.servus.ca TD Canada Trust 315 Macleod Trail SW t: 403.652.2921 Toll free 1.866.222.3456 www.td.com Western Financial Group 1010 24th Street SE t: 403.652.2663 www.westernfinancialgroup.ca
Western Financial Group 207, 200 Southridge Drive t: 403.938.0777 www.westernfinancial.net
15
Tourism Infrastructure Shop 'Til You Drop
Fore!
General service, boutique, specialty shopping, and art galleries have become a magnet for locals and Calgary day-trippers alike. Mainstreet revitalization efforts have generated pedestrian-friendly environments and atmospheric experience. Major new commercial developments offer anything available in “the big city.”
Eleven golf courses in the Region take advantage of rolling foothills, river valleys, and the inspirational distraction of mountain views. Carnmoney Golf Club - M.D. of Foothills 18 holes, private www.carnmoney.com
Cottonwood - M.D. of Foothills 18 holes, private www.cottonwoodgc.com
Crystal Ridge - Okotoks
Now That's a Mouthful
9 holes, public www.crystalridgegolf.com
Eating out in the Region ranges from art form to fast form. All of it is in fine form, and many represent destination dining. Some of them (we won't tell you which ones) have served as favourites for Hollywood actors filming movies in the area. There's something for every taste.
D’Arcy Ranch - Okotoks
These Boots Were Made For Walkin' With almost 70 km (Okotoks - 40, High River - 23, Turner Valley/Black Diamond - 3) of urban, interconnected hiking/biking trails that pass by everything from rivers to mountain views, to backyards, to parks, to a surprised deer or two, there's no excuse for not walking off the calories noshed in the local eateries.
Here Fishy Fishy Fishy…. Babbling mountain streams with headwaters only kilometers to the west, the Sheep and Highwood Rivers are reminiscent of scenes from the movie – 'A River Runs Through It' Species: Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout, Brown Trout, Cutthroat Trout, Rocky Mountain Whitefish.
Accommodation Camping
18 holes, public www.darcyranchgolf.com
Heritage Pointe - M.D. of Foothills 27 holes, public Ranked #40 in Canada (www.golf-courses.ca) www.heritagepointe.com
Highwood - High River 27 holes, semi-private www.highwoodgolf.com
Priddis Greens - M.D. of Foothills 36 holes, private Ranked #70 in Canada (www.golf-courses.ca) www.priddisgreens.com
Rio Vista - High River 9 holes, public
River’s Edge - M.D. of Foothills 18 holes, public www.riversedgegolfclub.com
Sirocco - M.D. of Foothills 18 holes, semi-private www.sirocco.ca
Turner Valley - Turner Valley 18 holes, semi-private www.turnervalleygolf.com
WJ Homestead Disc Golf - M.D. of Foothills 18 Holes, Public www.wjhomesteaddiscgolf.com
The Old and the Beautiful We Western Canucks only have 100 years of history, but we've made it an interesting history. Find it on Mainstreet (Black Diamond, Okotoks, High River), in a Heritage Walking Tour (Okotoks), and Sheppard Family Park and interpretive murals (High River).
Foothills Lions Campground (Centennial Park), Black Diamond, 403.933.5785 0r 403.933.4348 George Lane Campground , 55 sites, High River, 403.652.2529 Hell’s Half Acre Campground, Turner Valley, 403.993.8538 Hogg Park, M.D. of Foothills, 40 sites, 10 km W of High River, 403.652.2341 Nature's Hideaway Campground, 150 full/partial hookups, 30 km E of Okotoks, 403.938.8185 Riverbend Campground, 220 fully serviced & tenting 2 kms E of Okotoks 403.938.2017 Sheep River Campground, 55 electrified / 6 tent sites, Okotoks, 403.938.4282
Bed and Breakfast Accommodations Arbuthnot B&B, High River, 403.652.4056 Big Rock B&B, Okotoks area, 403.938.4718 Coulee Crossing B&B, Okotoks area, 403.938.1560 Harmony House B&B, Okotoks, 1.866.995.0461 High Cactus Ranch B&B, DeWinton, 403.537.0866 Idle Spurs B&B, Black Diamond, 403.933.5360 Okotoks B&B, 403.938.5443 Riverview B&B, Okotoks area, 403.938.5862 Visotiran Dreams B&B, High River, 403.601.2340 Welcome Acres B&B, Black Diamond, 403.933.7529
Hotels/Motels Black Diamond Bar & Hotel, 403.933.4656 Cowboy Trail Motel, Black Diamond, 403.933.4915 Foothills Motor Motel, High River, 403.652.1395 Heritage Inn, High River, 403.652.3834 High River Motor Motel, 403.652.4339 Ramada Inn & Suites, High River, 403.603.3183 Lakeview Inn & Suites, Okotoks, 403.938.7400 Okotoks Country Inn, 403.938.1999 Okotoks Inn, 403.938.4101 Super 8 Motel, High River, 403.652.4448 Turner Valley Lodge, 403.933.7878
Located in one of Alberta's finest recreation areas, the Alberta Foothills Region is a playground for pursuit of outdoor experiences and an active lifestyle. Our distinctive communities o ff e r u n i q u e culture, recreation, and shopping experiences for the Calgary R e g i o n ’s wandering spirits.
16
Tourism Infrastructure A Big Rock…That Doesn’t Roll
Marketing
Take a walk around the Big Rock (Okotoks Erratic) , the largest glacial boulder in North America left after the retreat of the last ice age 10,000 years ago. 7 km west of Okotoks in the M.D. of Foothills.
The Millarville Farmers' Market, held every Saturday morning during the summer months, is the largest in the Calgary Region. The market features local crafts, fresh produce, and lovely foothills terrain. Hwy 22 north of Turner Valley. www.millarvilleracetrack.com/market/index.html
Take a Hike Experience the unforgettable beauty of the regional trail system. From mild to wild, nature and wildlife is featured in their best habitat - naturally. Pick up trail guides for Kananaskis Country and nearby Provincial Parks. Wear a bear bell…..
The Rivers Wild The Sheep River, Elbow River, Bow River and Highwood Rivers are a haven for photographers, fishermen, birdwatchers, and hikers. Book a guided canoe tour to less-known fishing holes along more remote rivers and creeks such as the Crowsnest, Dogpound, Little Red and Stauffer.
Ranch Dressing The Bar U Ranch National Historic Site, 13 km south of Longview on Highway 22, is a living history representing one of Canada's important industries - ranching. Turn of the century buildings are being preserved and restored at this working ranch, established in 1882. For more information phone toll free at 1.800.568.4996.
From the Horse's Mouth Spruce Meadows hosts world-class show jumping (Hwy 22X just south of Calgary city limits). Some local stables that board horses provide trail rides for those who prefer a 'hands on' experience. There are over 800 km of equestrian-use trails throughout Kananaskis Country.
Peak Activity
Surf the White Stuff
The Sheep River Provincial Park and Bluerock Wildland Park (just west of Turner Valley), in the front range of the Rocky Mountains - engage the imagination - including camping, hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, photography, wildlife watching, and birding. Sheep River Falls is a highlight. Tread lightly….this is nature's domain. If you are lucky enough to spot elk, moose, bighorn sheep, white-tailed deer, mule deer, wolves, grizzly bears, black bears or cougars, be thankful for wild places.
For downhill ski enthusiasts, Wintergreen is one hour away at Bragg Creek, and a little further west is Mount Norquay, Nakiska, Sunshine and Lake Louise. Cross-country skiers can take advantage of the easy access to Fish Creek Park in South Calgary, Sandy McNabb in East Kananaskis, Peter Lougheed Provincial Park, the Smith-Dorrien Trail System, Ribbon Creek, and the Canmore Nordic Centre.
Roll With It
Nestled between the Rocky Mountains and the Canadian prairie is Alberta’s high ranching country, home to the historic Cowboy Trail. This 700 km trail winds its way north on Highways 5, 6 and 22 through the foothills from Cardston to Mayerthorpe. Stay at a guest ranch or working ranch. Go on a trail ride with an outfitter into some of Alberta’s prettiest country. Take in a rodeo, cowboy festival or a pow-wow for a day. Watch dawn break on the eastern slopes. The western spirit comes alive in the small communities along the way. www.thecowboytrail.com
Dig out your mountain bike and cycle the Smith-Dorrien Trail System, one of the best-known trails in Kananaskis Country. There are also many others! Check trailheads for restrictions due to wildlife movement. Foothills Bed & Breakfasts’ scattered around the area provide a taste of foothills life and rejuvenating views of the foothills and the Rocky Mountains.
Cowboy Trail (Highway 22)
17
Location
Light Industrial/Commercial Lands
The Municipal District of Foothills No. 31 is a rural municipality (3600 sq. km.) located adjacent to and immediately south of the City of Calgary, abutting Kananaskis Country and the Rocky Mountains to the west, and stretching east into the Alberta prairie. The M.D. surrounds the Towns of Okotoks, Turner Valley, Black Diamond, High River, the Village of Longview, and the Eden Valley Indian Reserve.
The Highway 2A Corridor is the primary location for industrial and commercial development within the M.D. of Foothills No.31. There are two existing Area Structure Plans for the Corridor, the Highway 2A Industrial Ares Structure Plan (H2AIASP) and the Aldersyde Area Structure Plan (AASP). The corridor consists of 8587 Acres of Land, all privately owned. Development approvals are based on submitted proposals. Please contact the M.D. of Foothills No.31 (403.652.2341) or visit http://www.mdfoothills.com/h2ai.html for more information.
Utilities Electricity/Natural Gas are deregulated in Alberta • The Alberta government provides a web site to assist consumers with choosing an appropriate provider for their residence or business. To learn more about electrical or natural gas providers visit www.ucahelps.gov.ab.ca Electricity: EPCOR (regulated): 403.310.4300 or www.epcor.ca Natural Gas: Direct Energy (regulated): 1.866.420.3174 or www.directenergyregulatedservices.com Sunshine Gas Co-op Ltd.: 1.877.684.3672 or www.sunshinegascoop.com Meota Gas Co-op: 403.931.2161 or www.meotagascoop.com
Municipal Services
Population • Growth rate - 2001 to 2006 - 18.7% (10.6% - Alberta). Growth rate - 1996 to 2006 - 25%
25000 19,736
20000 15000
Communications
10000 5000 0 1996 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006
Trade Area Resident within M.D. of Foothills boundaries - 51,500
Transportation
Air:
Bus:
Water services are provided in the hamlets of Aldersyde, Blackie, and Cayley. Wastewater services are provided in the hamlets of Blackie and Cayley. Utility provision and rates vary depending on location. Contact the M.D. for details.
Population
Road:
The M.D. provides a number of services - directly or jointly with other municipalities - to the residents of the rural area and the Hamlets of Aldersyde, Blackie, Cayley, De Winton, Hartell, Millarville, Naptha, Priddis, and Priddis Greens. These services include general administration and maintenance, fire protection, ambulance service, garbage disposal, planning and development administration, agricultural services, recreation and parks, family and community support services, and bylaw enforcement.
Highway 2/2A (N/S trade corridor) Highway 22 (to Black Diamond / Brag Creek - N / B.C. - S) Highway 7 (to Okotoks) Okotoks Air Park - 3000 ft. lighted runway High River Regional Airport Calgary International Airport - 55 minutes Greyhound Service - Okotoks
Employment Base Agriculture, professional services, construction
Newspapers Okotoks Western Wheel (weekly) www.westernwheel.com High River Times (weekly) www.highrivertimes.com Gateway Gazette (bi-weekly) gatewaygazette.homestead.com Radio AM 1140 www.am1140radio.com The Eagle 100.9 FM www.theeagle1009.com Sun Country 99.7 sun99radio.com Telephone TELUS: 403.310.2255 (residential), 403.310.3100 (business), or www.telus.com
Emergency Services Police - RCMP Detachments in Turner Valley, High River, and Okotoks Fire - M.D. operates Blackie, Cayley, and Priddis Fire Halls (volunteer forces). Part-owner - Okotoks (FT/volunteer) and Longview (volunteer) Fire Halls. Mutual aid with City of Calgary to serve northern portion of M.D. Ambulance - 24 hour emergency response (Foothills Regional Emergency Medical Services)
Future Growth Sectors Commercial and Light Industrial (Highway 2A Corridor), Commercial (Hamlets), Agriculture (value-added, biotech, specialty farming, bio energy production), telecommuting, home-based businesses (Residential Acreage), Natural Resources Development and Tourism.
www.mdfoothills.com
18
Population Age Structure (2006)
Residential Housing Starts 350
40
300
30 250
M.D. of Foothills
% 20 of total
# 200 of starts 150
Alberta
10 0
100
0-19
20-44 45-64
65+
50
Age 0
Education
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
Construction Values
A full range of public and separate schools are available in the majority of the foothills communities.
250
Medical
200
• High River and Black Diamond Hospitals • Health Units in Black Diamond, Okotoks, and High River • Full range of medical service clinics
Value ($) in millions 150 (incl.s residential, commercial, industrial, 100 institutional)
Household Income (2005) 90890
100000 90000 80000 Median Household 70000 60000 Income 50000 40000 (2005) 30000 20000 10000 0
50
63788
0 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
Tax Rates (2010) Residential Non-Residential
M.D. of Foothills
4.912544 9.583508
Alberta
Example: $300,000 (residential property assessment) x 4.912544/1000= $1473.76 (property taxes).
Src: Statistics Canada, 2006 Federal Census
Education (2006) Alberta - 17%
19%
19% Wit hout high school cert if icat e Wit h high school cer t if icat e Wit h t rade or non- universit y cert if icat e/ diploma
29% 33%
Wit h univer sit y diploma, cert if icat e, or degr ee
Alberta - 33% Src: Statistics Canada, 2006 Federal Census
Business Development 800
In 2010, 598 home-based businesses were operating in the M.D. of Foothills (81% of all business licenses).
700 600 500 # business 400 licenses 300 200 100 0 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
www.mdfoothills.com
19
Industrial/Commercial Land Supply - M.D. of Foothills -
Highway 2A (Aldersyde) Industrial Corridor (8587 acres undeveloped/unserviced) The Highway 2A Corridor is the primary location for industrial and commercial development within the M.D. of Foothills No.31. The corridor is a place for business growth that complements the environmental and social needs with the economic objectives for the region. There are two existing Area Structure Plans for the Corridor, the Highway 2A Industrial Area Structure Plan (H2AIASP) and the Aldersyde Area Structure Plan (AASP). Land within the plan area encompasses a broad range of uses and land use intensities. The corridor consists of 8587 acres of land, all privately owned. All development approvals are based on submitted proposals. Please contact the Municipal District of Foothills No.31 (403.652.2341) or visit www.mdfoothills.com/h2ai.html for more information. t. Samantha Payne, Economic Development Officer, 403.652.2341 Anchors: Cargill, Sprung Instant Structures, Mullen Trucking, Western Biodiesel, Abild’s Trucking, Christianson Pipe Inc., Nelson Lumber
Abild’s Industrial Park
Warner Business Park
(just north of Cargill, serviced) Hans Abild t: 403.652.7125, c: 403.333.5757
(junction of Hwy 7 & Hwy 2, serviced) Ed Warner t: 403.872.0837 e:
[email protected] www.warnerbusinesspark.ca
www.mdfoothills.com
20
Location
Light Industrial/Commercial Lands
Okotoks is nestled in the Sheep River Valley of the Alberta Foothills, 20 kms south of Calgary on Highway 2/2A. Okotoks has centrally-located access to a number of destinations, including downtown Calgary or the Calgary International Airport (40 minutes), Banff National Park (2 hours), Lethbridge (2 hours), Radium/Invermere (3 hours), and Waterton National Park (2.5 hours).
Approximately 300 acres of developable industrial/commercial land in four locations are in varying stages of planning approvals and infrastructure servicing. Contact Economic Development for more information at 403.938.8907.
Utilities Electricity/Natural Gas are deregulated in Alberta • The Alberta government provides a web site to assist consumers with choosing an appropriate provider for their residence or business. To learn more about electrical or natural gas providers visit www.ucahelps.gov.ab.ca Electricity: EPCOR (regulated): 403.310.4300 or www.epcor.ca Natural Gas: Direct Energy (regulated): 1.866.420.3174 or www.directenergyregulatedservices.com Municipal Rates (2010): Water - $12.10 bi-monthly + $5.28/1000 gallons (first 5000 gallons), $6.46/1000 gallons (5000 to 10000 gallons), $7.00/1000 gallons (over 15000 gallons) Sewage - $12.10 bi-monthly + $7.15/1000 gallons Garbage (residential) - $18.17 bi-monthly (2 unit/week limit) - $4 per tag for additional bags Recycling - $7.37 bi-monthly
Population • Second highest population growth rate of Alberta's towns (46.7%) from 2001 to 2006. • Fastest population growth for mid-size urban centres in Canada from 2001 to 2006. • The 1998 Municipal Development Plan established growth targets linked to infrastructure development limitations. The anticipated population at ‘buildout’ will be approximately 30,000 people. 23,201
25000
20000
15000
Okotoks operates an award-winning recycling/composting facility.
Communications Online: www.okotoksonline.com Newspapers: Okotoks Western Wheel (weekly) www.westernwheel.com Gateway Gazette (bi-weekly) www.gatewaygazette.homeland.com Radio: AM 1140 www.am1140radio.com The Eagle 100.9 FM www.theeagle1009.com Sun Country 99.7 www.sun99radio.com Telephone: TELUS: 403.310.2255 (residential), 403.310.3100 (business), or www.telus.com TV: Shaw: 403.716.6000 or www.shaw.ca Internet: High speed Internet service is available through TELUS, Shaw, or Platinum Communications (www.platinum.ca)
10000
Note: Shaw and TELUS both offer phone, TV, and Internet services. Platinum offers phone over Internet (VoIP) service.
5000
Emergency Services
0 2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
Trade Area Okotoks is the regional centre of commercial activity with a trade area of approximately 85,000. This includes Okotoks, High River, Black Diamond, Turner Valley, Vulcan, Nanton and rural areas encompassing approximately 2,000 square kms. Trade area for tourism, industrial, selected retail and professional services businesses extends as far as South Calgary and southeast B.C. (trade area: 250,000).
Transportation Road:
Air: Rail: Bus:
Highway 2A (to High River) Highway 2 (Calgary - Lethbridge) Highway 7 & 22 (to Turner Valley/B.C.) Okotoks Air Park - 3000 ft. lighted runway CP Main Rail Line (limited spur access) Scheduled Greyhound Service
Employment Base Agriculture, education, construction, transportation & logistics, trade, professional services, retail, home-based business,municipal government.
Okotoks has a fully integrated police, fire, ambulance and emergency response service (911) Police – RCMP Detachment in Okotoks: Complaints - 403.938.4202; Admin 403.938.7406
Education • 13 pre-schools • 5 elementary schools • 2 junior high schools • 2 regional high schools • 2 private schools
Medical • High River Hospital – 15 minutes south • Black Diamond Hospital – 15 minutes west • Okotoks Health and Wellness Centre: 403.995.2600 • Full range of medical service clinics
Future Growth Sectors Professional and commercial retail/services, local and regional industrial growth (high tech, ‘green’, warehousing, transportation, manufacturing), home-based businesses, tele-commuters, Calgary commuters, seniors/retirees, relocations motivated by lifestyle choice.
www.okotoks.ca
21
Population Age Structure (2006)
Residential Housing Starts 1200
40
1000
30
800
Okotoks
% 20 of total
Alberta
10
# of starts
600 400 200
0 0-19
20-44
45-64
65+
0
Age
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
Okotoks is younger, more prosperous, and more educated than provincial and national averages: • Okotoks is the second youngest mid-sized urban centre in Canada and the youngest community in Alberta (2006). 72% of the population is under age 45 (75% in 2001). • Median age (2006) - 32.4 – 6.4 years younger than Canadian average, 3.6 years younger than Alberta average. • Average number of people per household (2006) - 3 (Alberta - 2.6). Approximately 50% of the workforce is employed in Calgary, and 50% in Okotoks and/or the Foothills Region.
Construction Values 180 160 140 Value ($) 120 in millions (incl. 100
residential, commercial, industrial, institutional)
20 0 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
77438 63788
Okotoks
Alberta
Src: Statistics Canada, 2006 Federal Census
Education (2006) 19% Wit hout high school cert if icat e Wit h high school cer t if icat e Wit h t rade or non- universit y cert if icat e/ diploma
28%
37%
Events Calendar • February - Winter Walk Day, Family Day Activities • April - Okotoks & District Chamber of Commerce Trade & Lifestyle Show, Birth of a Nation Day, Earth Day • May - Antique Car Auction, and Annual Sheep River Clean-Up • June - Environment Week, Rotary Soap Box Derby, Annual Okotoks Parade & Youth Festival • July - Canada Day • August - Foothills Highland Games • September - Okotoks Pro Rodeo, Elks 31 Chili Cook Off, Olde Towne Okotoks Country Fair, Sheep River Road Race, Terry Fox Community Run • October - Pumpkin & Scarecrow Festival • November - Annual Okotoks Holiday Light Up • December - Annual Children’s New Year’s Eve Party
Recreation & Other Amenities
Alberta - 17%
16%
60 40
Household Income (2005) 80000 Median 70000 60000 Household 50000 Income 40000 30000 (2005) 20000 10000 0
80
Wit h univer sit y diploma, cert if icat e, or degr ee
Alberta - 33% Src: Statistics Canada, 2006 Federal Census
Business Development
•18 hole golf course (D’Arcy Ranch) • 9 hole golf course (Crystalridge) • 18 hole golf course (River’s Edge) • Recreation Centre with 2 indoor arenas (official size), 2 pools, hot tub/sauna, and 6 indoor curling sheets • 49 kms of interconnected hiking/biking trails • 91 parks, 48 playgrounds, 10 ball diamonds, 13 soccer pitches, 3 tennis courts, 8 basketball courts, 5 football fields, 1 BMX track, 1 skateboard park, 5 outdoor skating rinks, 1 running track, 3 multi-sport courts • Okotoks Art Gallery at the Station, Public Library, Okotoks Museum & Archives, Okotoks Performing Arts Centre • Fishing and wading (Sheep River) • Outdoor ice rink and track and field facility • Campground (61 sites) • 1,500 seat indoor Centennial Arena • 2,000 seat Seaman Stadium and Duvernay Fieldhouse (baseball)
Lodging
1800 1600
• Three hotels, one B&B. Several B&Bs within 20 km radius.
Nearby Facilities & Attractions
1400 1200
# of business 1000 licenses
800 600 400 200 0 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
In 2010, 591 home-based businesses were operating in Okotoks (38% of all business licenses issued).
• Millarville Fair and Farmer’s Market (20 minutes west) • Kananaskis Country (45 minutes west) • Spruce Meadows Equestrian Centre (10 minutes north) • Bar U Ranch National Historic Site (30 minutes south-west) • Banff National Park (90 minutes north-west) • Wide array of golf courses/camping/hiking • The Cowboy Trail (Highway 22) (10 minutes west) • Calgary Polo Club (5 minutes north) • Saskatoon Farm (15 minutes east) • Chinook Honey Farm & Chinook Arch Meadery (5 minutes west) • Kayben Farms (5 minutes north)
Tax Rates (2010) Residential - 0.6727% Non-Residential - 0.8943%
www.okotoks.ca
Example: $300,000 (residential property assessment) x 0.6727/100= $2018.10 (property taxes).
22
Land Supply - Okotoks Land Owners/Developers
COMMERCIAL •
•
•
There are several areas in Okotoks zoned for commercial development (retail, office, and affiliated land uses) including various areas along Southridge and Northridge Drives, the Westmount commercial site, the Drake Landing Shopping area, Banister Gate near Northridge Drive, and various redevelopment and infill opportunities in downtown Okotoks. The Southbank Business Park at 32nd Street and Highway 7 (Tri-Star and Burnswest) has commercial and light and medium industrial development opportunities, accentuated by completion of the 32nd Street bridge creating highway exposure and easy access to CAN-MEX Hwy 2. Elma Street is a turn of the century heritage street running parallel to mainstreet that has a mix of residential and commercial properties. Commercial projects on this street include bed and breakfast's, boutique retailers, hair and beauty salons, accountants, alterations, health-dentistry, upholstery repair, massage, naturopathic services, antiques, and financial and information technology enterprise. Mainstreet (Elizabeth/McRae/North Railway) has several redevelopment and a handful of raw land development opportunities, and is being targeted for professional, entertainment, tourism, culture and arts, high end retail, and corporate headquarters and offices land uses. Future commercial expansion in the downtown core is anticipated on South Railway St., and North Railway St. E.
INDUSTRIAL New raw industrial land capacity of approx. 200 acres is available, including:
•
Okotoks Business Park Expansion Area (29 acres). Phase 1 now available for sale. Prices range from $500,000 - $600,000 per acre. Expression of interests is being accepted. For details contact Economic Development at 403.938.8907or
[email protected]. Owner Town of Okotoks.
•
Southbank Business Park (170 acres). Located east of Costco and Home Depot on Tri-Star and Burnswest lands, zoned I1-S. Tri-Star (60 acres) welcomes all inquiries including but not limited to offices, corporate headquarters, warehousing, light manufacturing, R&D facilities, auto service shops, business support services, industrial service shops, medical clinics, theatres, truck terminals, and light commercial such as hotel and entertainment establishments. The Burnswest lands (111 acres) can accommodate uses similar to the Tri-Star lands, plus Commercial Highway uses such as eating establishments, financial institutions, medical clinics, household service shops, retail stores, recreation facilities, and commercial schools. Both developers are accepting expressions of interest or have parcels available for sale.
Commercial/Industrial Anchorbay Holdings 8 Banister Gate, Lorne Wildeman c: 403.686.4444 e:
[email protected] Burnswest Corporation Jeff J. Burns, General Manager t: 403.301.3983, c: 403.681.7703 e:
[email protected] www.burnswest.com Drake Landing Commercial 235 Milligan Drive United Communities, Alix Halpen or Tes Bonyai t: 403.265.6180
[email protected] [email protected] Okotoks Village 28 & 31 Southridge Drive RonMor Developers Inc. - Doug Porozni t: 403.253.8180 e:
[email protected] Southbank Business Park Tristar Communities Inc. Moez Moledina, General Manager t: 403.640.0708, c: 403.605.2670 e:
[email protected] www.tristarcommunities.com Westmount Prominence Realty Ltd., Samuel Cheng t: 403.571.5050 e:
[email protected] www.westmountokotoks.com Okotoks Air Ranch Lands Okotoks Air Ranch Inc., Roger Carefoot t: 403.619.9280 e:
[email protected] Waller Lands APEX Limited Partnership, Richard Priest t: 403.716.2237 e:
[email protected] Various Locations U-CON Western Ltd., Bill Unrau t: 403.830.2411 e:
[email protected] 235 Milligan Drive Dave Vaugeois t: 403.512.0399
Residential Cimarron www.tristar-cimarron.com Crystal Ridge/Drake Landing www.unitedcommunities.com Mountainview at Sandstone www.apexland.com Okotoks Air Ranch www.okotoksairranch.com Newnorth Projects (Sheep River) www.newnorthprojects.ca Hill at Westridge www.qualicocommunities.com Westmount www.westmountokotoks.com
www.okotoks.ca
23
Education, Recreation, Culture, Health - Okotoks -
Education
Recreation
Okotoks has a superior education system catering to approximately 4,000 students. Okotoks, like most of Alberta, has both public and separate (Catholic) school systems:
Okotoks Recreation Centre
Public School System: Foothills School Division - 403.652.3001 Big Rock Elementary School (Grades 1-6) 403.938.6666 Dr. Morris Gibson Elementary School (Grades 1-6) 403.938.6221 Percy Pegler Elementary School (Grades 1-6) 403.938.4449 Westmount School (under construction) Okotoks Junior High School (Grades 7-9) 403.938.4426 Foothills Composite High School (Grades 10-12) 403.938.6116 (includes Alberta High School of Fine Arts) Ecole Francophone d'Okotoks (Grades K-12) 403.815.4662
Separate School System: Christ the Redeemer Catholic School Division - 403.938.2659
99 Okotoks Drive t: 403.938.4222 An expanded facility (2006) now offers: 2 indoor arenas (official size), 2 pools, hot tub/sauna, gymnasium, youth centre, babysitting centre, 6 indoor curling sheets, and privately run physiotherapy clinic and fitness centre. A full range of courses, organized sports, and recreation programs are offered. Consult the Okotoks Community Guide on the Okotoks web site (www.okotoks.ca) for more information. Home of the Jr. B Okotoks Bisons (hockey) - www.okotoksbisons.com
Other 50 + kms of interconnected hiking/biking trails, 46 playgrounds, 13 ball diamonds, 21 soccer pitches, 3 tennis courts, 8 basketball courts, 5 football fields, 1 BMX track, 1 skateboard park, 5 outdoor skating rinks, 1 running track, 3 multi-sport courts.
Centennial Arena 204 Community Way The 1500 seat Centennial Arena is a multi-use facility, and is the home of the Okotoks Oilers of the Alberta Junior Hockey League. www.okotoksoilers.ca
Seaman Stadium & Duvernay Fieldhouse Good Shepherd School (Grades K-6) 403.938.4318 Holy Trinity Academy (Grades 10-12) 403.938.4600 John Paul II (Grades 7-9) 403.938.4600 St. Mary's School (Grades K-6) 403.938.8048 There are also a number of early childhood development, private, and alternative schools in Okotoks:
Early Childhood Development: Serendipity Pre-Kindergarten - 403.938.2811 Sunshine Nursery School - 403.938.5046 Big Rock Early Childhood Services (E.C.S.) - 403.938.6666 Good Shepherd E.C.S. - 403.938.4318 Dr. Morris Gibson E.C.S. - 403.938.6221 Percy Pegler E.C.S. - 403.938.4449 Salvation Army Children's Village E.C.S Day Treatment Program - 403.652.5054
Alternative Education: Sheep River Alternative Jr./High School - 403.938.6116 Home School Information - 403.938.2477
Private Schools: Edison Private School - 403.938.7670 Strathcona Tweedsmuir School - 403.938.4431
Adult Learning: Bow Valley College - 403.652.8338 Foothills Continuing Education Council - 403.652.3392 Okotoks Community Resources & Leisure Learning 403.938.8955 Olds College - 1.800.661.6537 Foothills Employment Training Centre - 403.652.2716 Residents are within commuting distance to post-secondary institutions in Calgary, including the University of Calgary, Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT), and Mount Royal College.
The 2000 seat baseball stadium is home to the Okotoks Dawgs of the Western Major Baseball League (2007, 2008, 2009 Champions) - www.dawgsbaseball.ca
Culture Okotoks Art Gallery at the Station 53 North Railway Street t: 403.938.3204 Public gallery space, studio, foyer and large art gallery.
Okotoks Public Library #7 Riverside Drive t: 403.938.2220 www.okotokslibrary.ca
Okotoks Museum & Archives at Heritage House 49 North Railway Street t: 403.938.8969
Foothills Centennial Centre 204 Community Way t: 403.938.4404 (booking information) Multi-use community centre (seniors centre, youth centre, meeting/banquet rooms, commercial kitchen) with seating capacity from 10 to 1000 people.
Rotary Performing Arts Centre 3 Elma Street Performance, meeting and forum facility. Seats 175.
Health Okotoks Health & Wellness Centre 11 Cimarron Common (Southridge Drive) t: 403.995.2600 Offers a number of health services including Urgent Care, Lab, X-Ray, Public Health, Community Care, Sexual Health, Speech Language Pathology, Pediatric Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy, Respiratory Therapy, Mental Health, Environmental Health, Adult Day Support and the Okotoks Healthy Family Resource Centre.
Foothills Country Hospice Society www.countryhospice.org Hospital facilities in Black Diamond, High River, south Calgary (under construction). Full range of dental and specialty medical clinics present locally.
www.okotoks.ca
24
Location
Light Industrial/Commercial Lands
High River straddles the Highwood River, 65 km south of Calgary (city centre) on Highway 2 - Alberta’s primary north south travel corridor. The Highway 2A corridor north to Okotoks provides access to a significant future industrial corridor. High River has centrally-located access to a number of destinations, including the Calgary International Airport (55 minutes), Banff National Park (2 hours), and Lethbridge (1 1/2 hours). Elevation – 1,035 metres / 3,396 feet
Approximately 350 acres, all privately owned. Commercial zoning (box store, hotel, restaurant, service station, warehousing, no manufacturing). Various lot sizes. Contact Town of High River for more information (403.652.2110).
Utilities Electricity/Natural Gas are deregulated in Alberta • The Alberta government provides a web site to assist consumers with choosing an appropriate provider for their residence or business. To learn more about electrical or natural gas providers visit www.ucahelps.gov.ab.ca Electricity: EPCOR (regulated): 403.310.4300 or www.epcor.ca Natural Gas: Direct Energy (regulated): 1.866.420.3174 or www.directenergyregulatedservices.com Customer choice for electricity/gas utilities - www.ucahelps.gov.ab.ca Municipal Rates (2010): Water rates based on meter size, billed every 2 months (residential) flat rate - 5/8” - $17.00, 3/4” - $22.00, 1” $33.00, consumption rate - 0-6000 gallons - $3.50/1000 gallons, 6001-12000 - $4.50/1000, 12001-24000 $7.00/1000, over 24001 - $9.50/1000 (commercial) flat rate - 5/8” - $20.00, 3/4” - $25.00, 1” $36.00, consumption rate - 0-3600 gallons - $3.50/1000 gallons, 3601-40000 - $5.00/1000, over 40001 - $6.50/1000
Population • Growth rate - 2001 to 2006 - 14.7% (10.6% - Alberta, 5.4% Canada). Growth rate - 1996 to 2006 - 45.6% (20.9% - Alberta) 14000 11.783
12000 10000
6000 4000 2000 0 1997
2000
2001
2002
2004
2006
2007
2010
Trade Area 60,000 Transportation
Air: Bus:
Storm water/sewer surcharge – residential - $4.20, commercial - $4.20 per 2 months. Garbage (residential) - 240L bin - $18.00/2 months, 360L bin - $25.00 (commercial) - rates based on bin size and frequency of pickup. E.g. 360L bin 1 pickup/week - $30.50, 1100L bin 1 pickup/week - $71.58
Communications
8000
Road:
Sewer rates based on meter size, billed every 2 months (residential) flat rate - 5/8” - $15.00, 3/4” - $18.00, 1” $25.00, consumption rate - $7.25/1000 gallons (commercial) flat rate - 5/8” - $16.00, 3/4” - $20.00, 1” $30.00, consumption rate - $7.75/1000 gallons
Highway 2 (to northern Alberta, U.S., Mexico) Highway 2A (to Okotoks) Highway 23 (east) Highway 543 (west to Kananaskis) High River Airport - 3000 ft. lighted runway Calgary International Airport - 55 minutes Greyhound Service - passenger/freight
Newspapers High River Times (weekly) www.highrivertimes.com Gateway Gazette (bi-weekly) gatewaygazette.homeland.com Radio AM 1140 www.am1140radio.com The Eagle 100.9 FM www.theeagle1009.com Sun Country 99.7 sun99radio.com Telephone TELUS: 403.310.2255 (residential), 403.310.3100 (business), or www.telus.com TV Shaw: 403.716.6000 or www.shaw.ca Internet High speed Internet service is available through TELUS, Shaw, or Platinum Communications (www.platinum.ca) Note: Shaw and TELUS both offer phone, TV, and Internet services. Platinum offers phone over Internet (VoIP) service.
Emergency Services Police - RCMP Detachment Fire - FT Chief + Deputy, FT + volunteer firefighters Ambulance - 24 hour emergency response Fire, RCMP, Ambulance - 911
Employment Base
Future Growth Sectors
Commercial services (retail, business/community services), manufacturing, construction, transportation, finance, agriculture.
Service commercial (local and Highway 2), home-based business and telecommuting, health and wellness services/industry.
www.highriver.ca
25
Population Age Structure (2006)
Residential Housing Starts 400
40
350
30
300
High River
% 20 of total
Alberta
10
# of starts
250 200 150
0
100
0-19
20-44
45-64
65+
Age
Education
50 0
• Public schools - 2 elementary, 1 junior high, 1 high school, 1 alternative school • Separate schools - 1 elementary, 1 high school • Private school - 1 regional • 2 pre-schools • Post High School • Academy of Learning • Bow Valley College (PET program)
Medical • High River Hospital, 403.652.2200 • Health Unit: 403.652.5450 • Charles Clark Medical Centre (projected opening Fall 2011) • Full range of medical service clinics
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
Construction Values 100 90 80 Value ($) in millions
70 60
(incl.s residential, commercial, 50 industrial, 40 institutional)
30 20
Household Income (2005)
10 0
Median Household Income (2005)
80000 70000 60000 50000 40000 30000 20000 10000 0
61528
High River
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
63988
Events Calendar
Alberta
Src: Statistics Canada, 2006 Federal Census
Education (2006)
• February - Alberta Men’s Curling Championship (2011), Jesse Payne Memorial Rodeo • April - Senior Pro Rodeo, Trade Fair • May - Little Britches Rodeo • June - Guy Weadick Memorial Rodeo & Chuckwagon Races • July—Canada Day Celebration, Farmer’s Market • August - Farmer’s Market, Border Country Rodeo • September - River City Classics Show n Shine, Farmer’s Market, Traisl End Cowboy Poetry • November - Arts Alive • December - Christmas Craft Fair & Santa Clause Parade
Recreation Amenities
Alberta - 17%
11%
Without high school certificate
24% With high school certificate With trade or non-university certificate/diploma
37% 28%
With university diploma, certificate, or degree
•Recreation Complex: 2 arenas, curling rink, swimming pool, meeting room •2 Golf Courses ( 9 hole & 27 hole) •Walking Trails: 17 kms, + 6 kms of linking trails •10 Playgrounds, 7 ball diamonds, 5 Soccer pitches, 2 outdoor Basketball courts, 2 Football fields, 1 outdoor Skating rink, 1 Skateboard park, 1 Mini Putt
Lodging • 5 hotels, 2 B&Bs, one campground (55 sites)
Alberta - 33%
Nearby Facilities & Attractions Src: Statistics Canada, 2006 Federal Census
Business Development 1200 1000
• Historic Murals - Downtown High River • Museum of the Highwood - Downtown High River • Frank Lake Conservation Area (birding) (5 minutes east) • Saskatoon Farm (U-pick, store, café) (5 minutes east) • Bar U Ranch National Historic Site (15 minutes west) • Greidanus Honey Mill • Wide array of golf courses/camping/hiking
Tax Rates (2010)
800 # of business licenses 600
Residential
7.2835
Municipal – 4.8152 Foothills (Senior) Foundation – 0.0857 Education Taxes – 2.3826
400 200
Non-Residential 8.1802
0 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
Example: $300,000 (residential property assessment) x 7.2835/1000= $2185.05
Municipal – 4.8152 Foothills (Senior) Foundation – 0.0857 Education Taxes – 3.2793
www.highriver.ca
26
Education, Recreation, Culture, Health - High River -
Education
Recreation
High River schools accommodate a school-age population of approximately 2,100 students in the public and separate (Catholic) school systems:
Bob Snodgrass RecPlex
Public School System:
5 St & 12 Avenue NE t: 403.652.4042
Foothills School Division - 403.652.3001
2 ice surfaces, 4 curling sheets, 1 indoor saltwater pool
Spitzee Elementary School (Grades K-5) 403.652.2376 Ecole Senator Riley School (Grades 6-8) 403.652.2346 Highwood High School (Grades 9-12) 403.652.5500 École Joe Clark School (Grades K-5) 403.652.2020
Other 3 tennis courts, 7 soccer pitches, children’s water spray park, 9 ball diamonds, 8 playgrounds, 17 km of paved pathways.
Separate School System: Christ the Redeemer Catholic School Division 403.938.2659 Mother Teresa House 403.652.3521 Holy Spirit Academy (Grades K-6) 403.652.2231 Notre Dame Collegiate (Grades 7-12) 403.652.2231
Culture Centennial Library 909 1 Street SW t: 403.652.2917
www.tracpac.ca Museum of the Highwood 4 Ave. & 1 Street SW t: 403.652.7156
While visiting the museum enjoy a unique dining adventure aboard the Whistle Stop Café, a restored 1940’s style dining car.
There are also a number of early childhood development, private, and alternative schools in High River and area:
Culture Centre
Early Childhood Development:
251 9 Avenue SW t: 403.652.4668
Provided by a parent-run program. Daycare, day homes and school services are also available in Town. High River Nursery School Association - 403.652.4698 The Play Centre - 403.652.4292 High River Montessori - 403.652.2774
Health High River Hospital 560 9 Avenue SW t: 403.652.2200 Beds - 32 active, 75 long-term care, 24 hour paramedic service
Alternative Education: Education Plus - 403.601.4640
Public Health Unit
Private Schools:
310 Macleod Trail SW t: 403.652.5450
Edison Private School, Okotoks - 403.938.7670 Strathcona Tweedsmuir School, M.D. of Foothills 403.938.4431
Adult Learning: Bow Valley College, High River (pre-employment program) 403.652.8338 www.bowvalleycollege.ca Academy of Learning, High River (computer training) 403.652.2116 Foothills Continuing Education Council - 403.652.3392 Residents are within commuting distance to post-secondary institutions in Calgary, including the University of Calgary, Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT), and Mount Royal College.
Preventive health program, including prenatal classes, post-natal home visits, child health clinics, immunization programs for preschool and school age children, and environmental health program.
Seniors Foothills Foundation - 403.652.3104 Medicine Tree Place - 403.652.3104
Foothills Country Hospice Society - www.countryhospice.org Full range of dental and specialty medical clinics present locally.
The Foothills Region is under the jurisdiction of Calgary Health Region (www.calgaryhealthregion.ca)
www.highriver.ca
28
Industrial/Commercial Land Supply - High River -
Service Commercial Highway 2 Service Commercial Canada Finance Corp. Bruce Laing t: 403.652.2513. (55 acres undeveloped, 25 acres developed)
Commercial 12th Avenue Commercial Lands Dundee Developments Mike Calley t: 403.245.3515 Mostly developed. Some property remaining.
Future Industrial
www.highriver.ca
27
Location
Light Industrial/Commercial Lands
The Town of Turner Valley is located in the Municipal District of Foothills, at the foot of the Rocky Mountains and abutting Kananaskis Country, approximately 55 km southwest of Calgary on Highway 22. Driving times: Black Diamond - 5 minutes, Okotoks (15 minutes - Highway 7), south Calgary - 30 minutes, High River - 30 minutes. Latitude – 50 degrees, 42 minutes Longitude – 114 degrees, 14 minutes Elevation – 1,080 metres / 3,542.2 feet
3 acres of developable industrial land east of Main Street adjacent to Kennedy Drive S.E. - privately owned. Serviced highway commercial privately and publicly owned. Contact Town of Turner Valley for more information (403.933.4944), e:
[email protected]
Utilities Electricity/Natural Gas are deregulated in Alberta • The Alberta government provides a web site to assist consumers with choosing an appropriate provider for their residence or business. To learn more about electrical or natural gas providers visit www.ucahelps.gov.ab.ca Electricity: EPCOR (regulated): 403.310.4300 or www.epcor.ca Natural Gas: Direct Energy (regulated): 1.866.420.3174 or www.directenergyregulatedservices.com Customer choice for electricity/gas utilities - www.ucahelps.gov.ab.ca Municipal Rates (2010): Water (residential) $72.70/2 months (first 30 cubic metres). Excess at $1.10/cubic metre, (commercial) $79.19/2 months (first 40 cubic metres). Excess at $1.10/cubic metre Sewage (residential) 80% of water, (commercial) 100% of water
Population • Growth rate - 2001 to 2006 - 18.7% (10.6% - Alberta). Growth rate - 1996 to 2006 - 25% (20.9% - Alberta)
2500
2,022
2000
Garbage Res. - $16.00/2 months - 3 unit/week limit $1.50/additional unit. Recycling fee (residential) $11.00/2 months, (commercial) $16.00/2 months Special rates apply for multi-unit (>4) residential buildings, apartments, and hotels/motels. Rates are under review and are subject to change in 2011.
Communications
1500 1000 500 0 1996 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2008 Trade Area Local - 5,000 Regional - 15,000
Newspapers Okotoks Western Wheel (weekly) www.westernwheel.com Gateway Gazette (bi-weekly) www.gatewaygazette.homestead.com Radio AM 1140 www.am1140radio.com The Eagle 100.9 FM www.theeagle1009.com Sun Country 99.7 sun99radio.com Telephone TELUS: 403.310.2255 (residential), 403.310.3100 (business), or www.telus.com TV Shaw: 403.716.6000 or www.shaw.ca Internet High speed Internet service is available through TELUS, Shaw, Platinum Communications (www.platinum.ca), or DaVinci Broadband (www.davincibroadband.com) Note: Shaw and TELUS both offer phone, TV, and Internet services. Platinum offers phone over Internet (VoIP) service.
Transportation
Emergency Services
Road:
Police - RCMP Detachment Municipal Peace Officers Fire - professionally trained volunteer department Ambulance - 24 hour emergency response Emergency response service (police, fire, EMS) - 911
Air: Bus:
Highway 22 (to Black Diamond / Bragg Creek - N / B.C. - S) Highway 7 (to Okotoks) Okotoks Air Park - 3000 ft. lighted runway Calgary International Airport - 55 minutes Greyhound Service - Okotoks
Employment Base
Future Growth Sectors
Agriculture, oil and gas, tourism, commercial services.
Service commercial, very light industry (region markets, hobby craft), home-based business and tele-commuting, tourism and recreational services.
www.turnervalley.ca
29
Population Age Structure (2006)
Residential Housing Starts 70
40
60
30 Turner Valley
% 20 of total
50
10
# of 40 starts 30
0
20
Alberta
0-19
20-44
45-64
65+
10
Age
0 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
Education
Construction Values
• 1 K-8 public school • Grades 9-12 - Black Diamond • Separate school division - Okotoks • 2 private schools in region
14 12 10 Value ($) in millions 8
Medical • Oilfields Regional Hospital – Black Diamond (5 minutes east) • High River Hospital – 30 minutes southeast • Health Unit: 403.933.8505 • Medical clinic, chiropractic, physiotherapy, dental, optometry, naturopathic services available locally
57276
Turner Valley
• June - Diamond Valley Parade and Discovery Days, Green Day (Sheep River Clean Up, Southern Alberta Art Days (Black Diamond) • July - Diamond Valley Canada Day, Turner Valley Triathlon, Bloomin’ Boxes, Legion Stampede Breakfast, Dog Days, Marv’s Rock ‘n Roll Classic (Black Diamond) • August - Festival of Arts, Alberta Art Days (Black Diamond) • September - Parade of Garage Sales • November - Diamond Valley Christmas Market, Diamond Valley Christmas Light Up (Black Diamond) • December - New Year’s Eve Family Celebration
Alberta
Recreation Amenities
Education (2006) 9% 26% Wit hout high school cer t if icat e Wit h high school cert if icat e Wit h t r ade or non-univer sit y cert if icat e/ diploma
37%
Wit h universit y diploma, cert if icat e, or degree
Alberta - 33%
0
Events Calendar 63988
Src: Statistics Canada, 2006 Federal Census
Alberta - 17%
2
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
Household Income (2005) 80000 Median 70000 60000 Household 50000 Income 40000 30000 (2005) 20000 10000 0
(incl.s residential, 6 commercial, industrial, 4 institutional)
• 18 hole golf course (Turner Valley Golf and Country Club) • Oilfields Arena and Curling Club (Black Diamond) with one arena, four indoor curling sheets, and one outdoor arena • Friendship Trail - 3 km paved pathway connecting Turner Valley and Black Diamond • Sheep River Library • Gateway to Kananaskis Country • Hells Half Acre Campground (20 sites) • Dr. Lander Memorial Pool - outdoor swimming pool (summer) • Outdoor skating rink (winter) • Skateboard park • Kananaskis Country - hiking, camping, fishing, horseback riding - 20 km west • Art exhibits and musical performances
Lodging • One hotel
28%
Nearby Facilities & Attractions
Src: Statistics Canada, 2006 Federal Census
• Millarville Fair and Farmer’s Market (10 minutes north) • Kananaskis Country (direct access) – provincial park (15 minutes west) • Spruce Meadows Equestrian Centre (15 minutes northeast) • Bar U Ranch National Historic Site (15 minutes south) • Banff National Park (75 minutes north-west) • Wide array of golf courses/camping/hiking • The Cowboy Trail (Highway 22) • Calgary Polo Club (5 minutes north)
Business Development 130 125
Tax Rates (2010)
120 # of business115 licenses 110
Residential
9.578
Municipal – 7.27 Foothills Foundation – 0.076 Education Taxes – 2.232
105
Non-Residential 11.267
100 2007
2010
Example: $300,000 (residential property assessment) x 9.578/1000= $2873.40 (property taxes).
Municipal – 7.27 Foothills Foundation – 0.076 Education Taxes – 3.921
www.turnervalley.ca
30
Land Supply - Turner Valley Industrial 8 acres of developable industrial land east of Main Street N and S of Kennedy Drive has several owners. Contact the Town of Turner Valley for more information - t: 403.933.4944 Commercial Serviced commercial lands have several owners, including 9.5 acres owned by the Town of Turner Valley. Contact the Town of Turner Valley for more information - t: 403.933.4944. Residential Schmaus Meadows & Bailey Ridge JKR Construction Don Beaton t: 403.933.3008 www.jkrexcavating.com
Seclusion Valley Candor Properties Ltd. Adam Till t: 403.801.4330
Redquest Developments Bob Rettie t: 403.519.6773
Everwood Estates Candor Properties Ltd. Adam Till t: 403.801.4330
www.turnervalley.ca
31
Location
Light Industrial/Commercial Lands
The Town of Black Diamond is located in the Municipal District of Foothills, at the foot of the Rocky Mountains and abutting Kananaskis Country, approximately 55 km southwest of Calgary on Highway 22. Driving times: Turner Valley - 5 minutes, Okotoks (15 minutes - Highway 7), south Calgary - 30 minutes, High River - 30 minutes. Latitude – 50 degrees, 42 minutes Longitude – 114 degrees, 14 minutes Elevation – 1,080 metres / 3,542.2 feet
Sales & Leasing - Land Styles Realty, Herb Styles, 403.875.3491 Sales & Leasing - Warehouse, Office, Retail JKR Business Centre, John Fraser, 403.938.4078 Navntoft Block - Jes Navntoft, 403.615.9000 Royal LePage Foothills, John Fraser, 403.938.4078 T&T Disposal Building, Ted Matlo, 403.933.7930 For a complete and current inventory, contact:
[email protected]
Utilities Electricity/Natural Gas are deregulated in Alberta
•
The Alberta government provides a web site to assist consumers with choosing an appropriate provider for their residence or business. To learn more about electrical or natural gas providers visit www.ucahelps.gov.ab.ca
Electricity: EPCOR (regulated): 403.310.4300 or www.epcor.ca Natural Gas: Direct Energy (regulated): 1.866.420.3174 or www.directenergyregulatedservices.com Customer choice for electricity/gas utilities - www.ucahelps.gov.ab.ca Municipal Rates (2010): Water (all buildings): $29.70 flat/2 months + $4.97/1000 imperial gallons Sewer: Single family residential – $68.76 flat/2 months. Non single family residential – $68.76 for 1-8000 imperial gallons plus $2.10/1000 gallons > 8000 gallons/2 months
Population • Growth rate - 2001 to 2006 - 1.8% (10.6% Alberta)
Garbage - $15.50/2 months. Recycling fee - $8.35/2 months 2500
2,308
Curbside, construction and commercial recycling services and a recycling centre provide full recycling options.
2000
Communications
1500 1000 500 0 1996
2001
2002
2003
2004
Trade Area Local - 5,000 Regional - 15,000
Transportation Road: Air: Bus:
Highway 22 (to Brag Creek - N / B.C. - S) Highway 7 (to Okotoks) Okotoks Air Park - 3000 ft. lighted runway Calgary International Airport - 55 minutes Greyhound Service - Okotoks
2005
2006
2009
Newspapers Okotoks Western Wheel (weekly) www.westernwheel.com Gateway Gazette (bi-weekly) www.gatewaygazette.homeland.com Radio AM 1140 www.am1140radio.com The Eagle 100.9 FM www.theeagle1009.com Sun Country FM 99.7 sun99radio.com Telephone TELUS: 403.310.2255 (residential), 403.310.3100 (business), or www.telus.com TV EastLink www.eastlink.ca 1.888.345.1111. Satellite - Bell, StarChoice Internet High speed Internet service is available through TELUS, or EastLink
Emergency Services Police - RCMP Detachment Fire—volunteer department Ambulance—24 hour emergency response Fire, RCMP, Ambulance - 911
Employment Base
Future Growth Sectors
Agriculture, oil and gas, tourism, commercial services.
Service commercial, very light industry (region markets, hobby craft), home-based business and tele-commuting, tourism and recreational services.
www.town.blackdiamond.ab.ca
32
Population Age Structure (2006)
Residential Housing Starts 70
40
60
30
50
Black Diamond
% 20 of total
# of starts
Alberta
10
40 30 20
0 0-19
20-44
45-64
10
65+
Age
0
Education
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
Construction Values
• 2 early childhood services • 1 K-6 public school • 1 7-12 public school • 1 alternative outreach high school • Separate school division - Okotoks • 2 private schools in region • Home-schooling and adult learning services
25 20 Value ($) in millions 15
Medical
(incl.s residential, commercial, industrial, 10 institutional)
• Oilfields Regional Hospital • High River Hospital – 30 minutes southeast • Health Unit: 403.933.8505 • Medical, chiropractic, dental, optometry facilities available locally
5 0
Household Income (2005) 80000 Median 70000 60000 Household 50000 Income 40000 30000 (2005) 20000 10000 0
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
Events Calendar
63988
• June - Diamond Valley Parade and Discovery Days • July - Canada Day Celebration, Turner Valley Triathlon, Marv’s Classic Rock & Roll • November - Christmas Light Up • December - Diamond Valley Christmas Concert
46811
Recreation Amenities Black Diamond
Alberta
•18 hole golf course (Turner Valley Golf and Country Club) • Oilfields Arena and Curling Club - one arena and four indoor curling sheets • Friendship Trail - 3 km paved pathway connecting Turner Valley and Black Diamond • Sheep River Library • Skateboard park • Fly fishing (Sheep River) • Gateway to Kananaskis Country • Foothills Lions Campground (59 sites) • Outdoor swimming pool (summer) (Turner Valley) • 2 Outdoor skating rinks (winter)
Src: Statistics Canada, 2006 Federal Census
Education (2006) Alberta - 17%
6% 27%
Wit hout high school cer t if icat e Wit h high school cert if icat e
Lodging
35% Wit h t r ade or non-univer sit y cert if icat e/ diploma
• One hotel, one motel, one bed & breakfast
Nearby Facilities & Attractions
Wit h universit y diploma, cert if icat e, or degree
Alberta - 33%
• Millarville Rodeo, Farmer’s Market, Horse races, Fair (10 minutes north) • Spruce Meadows Equestrian Centre (15 minutes northeast) • Beneath The Arch Concert Series (Turner Valley) • Leighton Art Centre and Museum (15 minutes north) • Okotoks Erratic (10 minutes east) • Bar U Ranch National Historic Site (15 minutes south) • Kananaskis Country – provincial park (20 minutes west) • Banff National Park (75 minutes north-west) • Wide array of golf courses/camping/hiking • The Cowboy Trail (Highway 22) • Calgary Polo Club (5 minutes north)
32% Src: Statistics Canada, 2006 Federal Census
Business Development 250 200
Tax Rates (2010)
# of 150 business licenses 100
Residential
10.1
Municipal – 7.78 Education Taxes – 2.25 Seniors Foundation - .07
50
Example: $300,000 (residential property assessment) x 10.1/1000= $3030 (property taxes).
Non-Residential 10.65
0 2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
Municipal – 7.78 Education Taxes – 2.8 Seniors Foundation - .07
www.town.blackdiamond.ab.ca
33
Land Supply - Black Diamond -
Service Commercial - Land, Warehouse, Office, Retail Diamond Crossing, Style Realty, Herb Styles, t: 403.875.3491 JKR Business Park, John Fraser, t: 403.938.4078 T&T Disposal Building, Ted Matlo, t: 403.933.7930 Residential Diamond Meadows Riverwood (Lifestyle Homes Inc.), t: 403.933.2503, www.lifestylehomes.ca Mountain View Ridge
www.town.blackdiamond.ab.ca
34
Education, Recreation, Culture, Health - Black Diamond / Turner Valley -
Education Black Diamond / Turner Valley schools accommodate a school-age population of approximately 700 students in the public and separate (Catholic) school systems:
Public School System: Foothills School Division - 403.652.3001
Recreation Oilfields Regional Arena 611-3 Street SW, Black Diamond t: 403.933.5272 Home to the Foothills Figure Skating Club, High Country Minor Hockey, and various adult teams, the Oilfields Arena includes a hockey rink, 4 dressing rooms with showers, lobby, concession and a banquet room.
C. I. McLaren, Black Diamond (Grades K-6) 403.933.4234 Turner Valley Elementary-Junior High School (Grades K-8) 403.933.4361 Oilfields High School, Black Diamond (Grades 7-12) 403.933.4373
Oilfields Curling Club
Separate School System: Christ the Redeemer Catholic School Division - 403.938.2659 Good Shepherd School, Okotoks (Grades K-6) 403.938.4318 Holy Trinity Academy, Okotoks (Grades 10-12) 403.938.4600 John Paul II, Okotoks (Grades 7-9) 403.938.4600 St. Mary's School, Okotoks (Grades K-6) 403.938.8048 St. Luke’s Outreach Centre, Okotoks (Grades 10-12) 403.995.0287
611-3 Street SW, Black Diamond t: 403.933.7324 www.occcurling.com -4 curling sheets
Swimming Pool (Dr. Lander Memorial) (outdoor) t: 403.933.7483
Scott Seaman Sports Rink (outdoor rink)
Culture Flare & Derrick Community Centre
There are also a number of private, alternative school, and adult learning opportunities in the Region:
131 Main Street, Turner Valley t: 403.933.9514
Alternative Education:
Sheep River Library
Education Plus: Diamond Valley Campus - 403.933.4772 (Sheep River Alternative Jr./High School) Home School Information - 403.938.2477
301 Centre Avenue (lower level of Municipal Office)
Health
Private Schools: Edison Private School - 403.938.7670 Strathcona Tweedsmuir School - 403.938.4431
Foothills Family Medical Clinic 141- 1 St. SW, Black Diamond t: 403.933.4368
Adult Learning: Bow Valley College - 403.652.8338 Foothills Continuing Education Council - 403.652.3392 Okotoks Community Resources - 403.938.8955 Olds College - 1.800.661.6537 Foothills Employment Training Centre - 403.652.2716
Black Diamond Health Unit (Calgary Health Region facility) 717 Government Road S. t: 403.933.8505
Oilfields General Hospital Residents are within commuting distance to post-secondary institutions in Calgary, including the University of Calgary, Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT), and Mount Royal University.
717 Government Road S., Black Diamond t: 403.933.2222 Beds - 10 acute care, 30 long-term care, palliative care unit Staffing - 7 physicians, orthotics specialist, audiologist, clinical dietitian, speech pathologist. Full range of health care services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, respiratory therapy, mental health office, and home care and public health services. Base of operations for the area’s 24-hour 911 emergency medical service.
Foothills Country Hospice Society www.countryhospice.org
www.turnervalley.ca www.town.blackdiamond.ab.ca
35
Sources 1
Calgary Economic Development (www.calgaryeconomicdevelopment.com)
2
Alberta Economic Development (www.alberta-canada.com)
3
Real Estate Investment Network (Alberta) (www.albertarein.com)
4
Conference Board of Canada, 2007 (www.conferenceboard.ca/press/2007/cma-benchmarking.asp)
5
Government of Alberta (www.alberta-canada.com)
6
Government of Alberta (www.alberta-canada.com)
7
Business Week (www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/04_52/b3914456.htm), citing Clean Edge Inc., a U.S.-based research and strategy consultant, 2004
8
TechCast - the Virtual Think Tank (www.techcast.org/event.aspx?event=27, Dec. 2007)
9
Government of Alberta (www.alberta-canada.com)
10
Government of the United Kingdom (www.dti.gov.uk/sectors/environmental/index.html)
11
Government of Alberta (www.alberta-canada.com)
12
Statistics Canada, Federal Census
13
GD Sourcing, 2001 (www.gdsourcing.com)
14
Statistics Canada
15
CB Richard Ellis (www.cbre.com)
16
Calgary Real Estate Board (www.creb.com)
36
A Business Development Initiative of the Alberta Foothills Region
www.albertafoothills.ca
This publication is partially funded by:
Photo credits: M.D. of Foothills, Town of Okotoks, Town of High River, Town of Black Diamond, and Town of Turner Valley. The content of this site is provided 'as-is'. The Foothills Region communities, in whole or in part and including its employees or contractors, make no warranty, either express or implied, including but not limited to, warranties of fitness for a particular purpose or accuracy of data. In no event will the Foothills Region communities be liable for any indirect, special, consequential or other damages however caused. Copyright 2011 Printed in Canada
