Bow Island Buzz: Community events, housing initiatives, and council updates

Posted on November 21, 2024 by Ryan Dahlman

By Nerissa McNaughton
Southern Alberta Newspapers

Bow Island is alive with vibrant events that foster community connection and well-being. The event calendar is packed with opportunities to engage, such as yoga sessions at the multiplex, bingo nights, and the delightful ABC Babytime, ensuring there’s something for everyone!

In line with fostering growth, the town has launched the Build Now initiative, aimed at accelerating housing development and boosting economic activity. This program offers tax credits to encourage the construction of diverse housing types, from apartments to multi-unit dwellings. With applications open and tax credits rolling out by 2025, this initiative is set to invigorate the local housing market and support Bow Island’s economic vitality. Learn more about it at https://bowisland.com/build-now.

During the recent council meeting on October 28, several pivotal projects were discussed including but not limited to:

• Airport Industrial Subdivision: MPE Engineering is moving forward with plans to expand this area, potentially adding up to 16 new lots. The phased approach to development ensures gradual infrastructure growth while managing costs effectively.

• Public Works Building Change Orders: A series of proposed upgrades include improvement to the roof cladding, insulation for office walls, enhanced partitions and lockers, and millwork. 

The council also reviewed the Strategic Plan for 2022-2025. The plan emphasizes values such as adaptability, honesty, and respect, and outlines objectives to promote orderly development, support local businesses, and enhance recreational facilities. The main objectives include:

• Inclusivity and Participation: Encourage community involvement by recruiting new members for boards and inviting leaders to council meetings, while recognizing local group contributions.

• Highway 3 Advocacy: Actively participate in the Highway 3 Twinning Development Association and engage with officials to revise plans for the highway to pass through the town.

• Healthcare Services: Increase continuing care capacity and support healthcare recruitment efforts to enhance local health services.

• Service Level Establishment: Develop policies to define service levels for emergency, enforcement, road maintenance, and waste collection by 2024.

• Orderly Development: Promote residential and commercial growth through marketing plans, new development opportunities, and bylaw updates.

• Business Support: Foster business growth by enhancing communication with local businesses and development partners, and by improving broadband access.

• Recreational Opportunities: Expand recreational facilities and engage the community in development plans to promote healthy living.

• Town Beautification: Enhance the town’s image through tourism committee roles, visitor centre improvements, and seasonal decorations.

• Employee and Volunteer Programs: Develop succession and career development plans to retain and support staff and volunteers.

Community engagement remains at the heart of Bow Island’s governance and development strategies. Citizens are encouraged to stay informed and actively participate in local initiatives, from attending council meetings to joining community events. Visit the website and the event calendar to learn more.