(Cochrane, AB) – At the July 7 Committee of the Whole meeting, Cochrane Administration presented the results of its 2026–2028 budget engagement process—marking the highest level of public participation in the Town’s budget engagement.
Nearly 1,000 residents shared their feedback through online and telephone surveys, in-person events, and a newly introduced focus group. This represents a 69% increase in participation over last year. The engagement campaign, led by the Town’s Communications and Engagement team, combined proven methods with new tools to make participation more accessible for residents.
“It’s incredibly encouraging to see our community so engaged in the budget process,” said Mayor Jeff Genung. “When residents share their priorities and ideas, it ensures our planning reflects what matters most to the people who live here.”
Key Engagement Highlights:
- Value for Taxes: 59% of respondents said they receive good, very good, or excellent value for their property taxes.
- Top Priorities: 25% of participants identified planning for future growth as a top priority, while 24% highlighted long-term fiscal sustainability.
- Additional Priorities: Residents also pointed to expanding outdoor spaces (13%), improving specific services (12%), and enhancing roads, access, and traffic flow (10%).
- Support for Increased Spending: The top three areas where residents would support more funding are Parks & Open Spaces, Family & Community Support Services, and Roads.
- Areas for Potential Reductions: Transit, Partner Organizations, and Municipal Enforcement were identified as the top three services where residents prefer reduced spending.
In addition to a statistically valid survey conducted by research firm Advanis, residents engaged through Let’s Talk Cochrane, the Chamber of Commerce Trade Show, and a new community focus group facilitated by Parsons Dialogue. The focus group offered in-depth, qualitative insights into residents’ values and expectations around municipal budgeting.
“This year’s expanded approach gave us a deeper and more representative understanding of community priorities,” said Kristin Huybrecht, Communications Manager. “That feedback is already informing departmental budget planning and will help ensure alignment with resident expectations.”
All feedback has been shared with department managers to guide the development of draft budgets. In the fall, once the draft 2026–2028 budget is presented to Council, residents will have another opportunity to provide input through Let’s Talk Cochrane and a second community focus group.
“What we heard will shape not only the upcoming budget but also how we communicate and engage with the community going forward,” added Huybrecht.
The full “What We Heard” reports are available now on 2026-2028 Budget | Let's Talk Cochrane
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