As interest in data centre development grows across Alberta, Rocky View County is taking a proactive, strategic approach to understand what this evolving industry could mean for residents, landowners, and the broader community.
Through the Emerging Sector Strategy – Technology & Energy, the County is developing a long-term planning framework to guide how future data centre proposals are evaluated and where they could be located.
“We encourage Rocky View County residents to participate in upcoming engagement opportunities,” said Dominic Kazmierczak, Executive Director of Community Services. “Their feedback will help the County better understand community priorities and establish clear expectations for where future development may be appropriate and what should be considered when proposals come forward.”
The County has commissioned a consultant to complete a research report on data centre development and its potential impacts on land use, infrastructure, agriculture, water, the economy, and municipal policy. Residents are encouraged to visit the Data Centres and the Emerging Sector Strategy project page to read the research report and share feedback.
Public input is an important part of this work. The County is inviting residents, landowners, and businesses to share their perspectives on the opportunities, challenges, and planning considerations associated with data centre development at one of four upcoming open houses. All open houses run from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Tuesday, September 29, Balzac Community Hall
- Thursday, October 1, Khalsa School in Conrich
- Tuesday, October 6, The Track Golf Course in Langdon
- Thursday, October 8, Irricana Lions Community Hall
For those unable to attend an open house, an online survey will be available starting September 29 on the project page.
This engagement does not review or make decisions on any specific data centre development application. It is intended to gather feedback on the Emerging Sector Strategy – Technology & Energy. All public feedback received through the engagement will be shared with Rocky View County Council and summarized in a What We Heard Report. Together with the project research, this feedback will help Administration develop an Options Report outlining potential approaches for Council’s consideration.