The Town of Cochrane and Rocky View County are exploring alternative models for Cochrane’s recreation facilities, working to ensure the service model continues to be responsive and adaptable to the growing needs of the community.
In 2024, the Town and County jointly issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to explore operating models for Cochrane recreation facilities, including the SLS Centre (SLSC) and Cochrane Arena. This month, Administration presented a detailed update to Council, outlining the proposed transition of the SLSC operations to YMCA Calgary.
Next Steps
Council has set a public hearing on Wednesday, June 11 at 5:30 p.m. prior to considering final approval of the agreement with the YMCA.
What is a public hearing?
Public hearings are formal proceedings that follow rules set out by provincial and local legislation, allowing members of the public to participate in the decision making process by sharing feedback on a proposed change in the community.
Speak at the public hearing (5-minute time limit) by arriving early and signing the speakers list.
Make a 5-minute presentation (or 10-minute for a group) by sending your presentation to legislative@cochrane.ca by noon., Thursday, June 5.
Public submissions, including name and address, will form part of the official record for the public hearing which is available to the public and published on cochrane.ca.
The SLSC and Cochrane Arena are co-owned by the Town of Cochrane and Rocky View County. This partnership will remain in place. The transition relates to facility operations, not ownership.
The Town of Cochrane and Rocky View County jointly issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) in 2024 to explore new operating models for the Spray Lake Sawmills Centre (SLSC) and Cochrane Arena. As the community continues to grow, this process was initiated to ensure long-term sustainability, service quality and responsiveness to changing recreational needs.
YMCA Calgary was selected as the preferred partner following a competitive process and extensive evaluation. The consideration of this partnership is now under review and consideration from Cochrane's and Rocky View's Council.
strong partnerships with municipalities and not-for-profits
established systems that support efficient, sustainable service delivery
If approved by all three partners – the Town of Cochrane, Rocky View County, and YMCA Calgary’s board of directors:
Summer 2025: Transition planning and information sharing
Early 2026: Full operational transition to YMCA Calgary
There are no plans to change the facility name.
Yes, current memberships would be honoured. Any changes to membership processes or options will be communicated as details are known. More information will be provided by the YMCA.
YMCA Calgary will honour all the terms of all existing tenant, partnership, and user group agreements. Individual conversations will take place with each partner, user group and vendor. More information will be provided by the YMCA.
During the transition period, current services and programming would continue with minimal disruption. YMCA Calgary and its municipal partners are committed to a seamless transition that preserves the services community members rely on while gradually introducing new opportunities and changes over time.
Any service changes will be communicated clearly and in advance.
All three partners are committed to supporting current SLSC staff in the event of a transition. As details are finalized, additional information will be shared directly with staff and through public updates.
