MOU ~ Glenbow Ranch Visitor Centre
Council unanimously voted to direct administration to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Glenbow Ranch Park Foundation to explore programming and services along Southbow Landing Park. The MOU will support early collaboration among the Foundation, the Town and the Southbow Landing developer, enabling enhanced park planning and timely delivery of programs and services for Cochrane residents. The agreement also strengthens regional partnerships and aligns with the Town’s goals for accessible, connected and activated public spaces.
MOU ~ Invest Greater Calgary
Council approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Calgary Region Partners and the Invest Greater Calgary Secretariat, formalizing Cochrane’s participation in the IGC three-year pilot project.
Invest Greater Calgary (IGC) is a voluntary collaboration among eight municipalities, focused on promoting the region as a unified and competitive destination for investment. Endorsing the agreement positions Cochrane as an active regional partner in advancing economic prosperity and competitiveness across the Calgary Metropolitan Region.
Bylaw 16/2025 ~ Natural Gas Distribution System Franchise Agreement
Council gave first reading to Bylaw 16/2025, Natural Gas Distribution System Franchise Agreement. The bylaw would replace the expiring 10-year agreement with ATCO with a new 10-year term.
The current ATCO agreement expires Dec. 31, 2025. The proposed term remains at 10 years, consistent with the existing agreement. There is no proposal to change Cochrane’s franchise fee at this time; franchise fees may be adjusted annually through a regulated process. First reading initiates the formal bylaw and regulatory process, keeping the Town on track for timely renewal. Second and third readings are expected later this year.
Bylaw 13/2025 ~ Traffic Bylaw Amendment
Council gave first reading to Bylaw 13/2025, which proposes amendments to the Traffic Bylaw to modernize regulations related to bicycles, e-scooters, micromobility devices and multi-use pathways. These updates align with Cochrane’s Active Transportation Design Guidelines and reflect current transportation needs.
Bylaw 13/2025 repeals Bylaw 33/1996 (Bicycle Control Bylaw) and amends Bylaw 02/2005 (Traffic Bylaw). The recommended updates follow a comprehensive review by administration, including a jurisdictional scan of comparable Alberta municipalities. The proposed regulations balance safety, clarity and flexibility across all modes of transportation. The amendment ensures the Town’s regulatory framework supports community growth, safety and infrastructure investment. Second and third readings are expected in September 2025.
Cochrane Community Grants Program
Council approved the Cochrane Community Grants Program Policy 1206-02 and endorsed the 2025 Community Investment Fund allocations. This replaces the existing Community Investment Grant Program (Policy 1206-01) and introduces a more structured, transparent and equitable approach to municipal grant funding.
Administration will now implement the new policy and launch the 2025 intake process as planned, providing clarity for community groups and ensuring a timely rollout of funding under the revised framework.
