I have read with interest and dismay the articles and letters regarding the sale of the property owned by Rocky View County and occupied by Cochrane & District Agricultural Society (CDAS).
I think it always helps understanding and decision-making if a historical perspective is included. I was on the board of directors for CDAS when the current lease was signed in 2000. Before this time, the land in question was owned by the province of Alberta and CDAS had a 100-year lease in place.
In 2000, Spray Lake recreation centre’s steering committee was moving forward with a plan to build the hockey and soccer arena on the ag grounds and the terms of their agreement to partner with Rocky View County required Rocky View to own the property; a “trade” was arranged with the province on another piece of property that Rocky View County owned.
Ultimately, the hockey arena project on the ag grounds did not go forward and was relocated to its current site at Griffin Park. This left CDAS in the position of having to negotiate a new lease with the county. Rocky View County was only willing to negotiate a 25-year lease but assured CDAS that the lease would be renewable and that “the rug would not be pulled out from under” them.
It appears that is exactly what is happening. If the land swap had not happened back in 2000, CDAS would have 80+ years left on its lease of the property and would not now be in a position of wondering if they can continue to provide venues for BMX, Cochrane Pony Club, Cochrane Horse Trials, Cochrane Roping Club, etc.
It will be most unfortunate if children and adults in our community are turfed from Rocky View County’s property. Also, is it a coincidence or a conflict of interest that individuals who were involved in the land swap in 2000 are now on Rocky View Council?
Chris Davies
