Updated January 2025
The existing Town Office, built in 1973, is beyond its life expectancy. A 2011 building assessment report and a 2022 feasibility study examined the existing condition of the Town Office and the current and projected spatial requirements of Town administrative functions. Noted deficiencies include:
- Non-compliance with the building code.
- Operationally deficient or marginal mechanical systems.
- Asbestos and other hazardous building materials throughout.
- Inadequate fire rating between storeys and insufficient fire egress.
- Insufficient insulation.
- Insufficient space allocation for Council chambers, offices and workspaces.
Council conducted public engagement regarding a new civic building in 2023, focused on building design and shared space opportunities. Certain themes were repeated frequently in the comments received. These are summarized below:
Showcasing Rocky's Identity: Respondents feel that any new endeavor should represent and highlight Rocky's unique position, heritage, and natural beauty. Outdoor, Adventure and Community were repeated often.
Cost-consciousness: There was an emphasis on being financially prudent.
Forward-thinking: Respondents stress the importance of envisioning the future needs of the community, considering long-term implications and changes.
Environmental building practices: Respondents in support of the project consistently advocated for green building practices and renewable energy embedded in the design.
Uniqueness and Iconic Features: A desire for any new infrastructure to be distinctive, iconic, and a point of pride for the community.
Prioritization of Functionality: Some responses indicate that themes and aesthetics are secondary to the building's functionality and accessibility.
Functionality and Multipurpose Use: Respondents stress the importance of the building serving multiple purposes and being forward-thinking in design and utility.
Council’s 2024-2026 Strategic Plan is focused on the future. To that end, Council’s Governance goals include having Class C designs for a new Civic Building, including a cultural centre, ready for grant opportunities.
To meet this goal, the design funds for 2023 & 2024 that were not expended will be carried forward to 2025. The approved 2025 budget includes $200,000 for the design of a new civic building. This opportunity will be tendered in early 2025.
Estimated construction costs ($8 million) appear in 2027 in the 10-year capital plan.
Background:
After reviewing a 2011 building evaluation report and a 2022 feasibility study that examined the existing condition of the Town Office and the current and projected spatial requirements of Town administrative functions, Council is considering leveraging the Town’s strong financial position to plan for a civic building we can all be proud of.
View the reports:
2022 Town of Rocky Mountain House Town Hall Feasibility Study by JMAA Architecture
2021 Town Hall Building Assessment Update
2011 Building Evaluation by Scott Builders Inc.
If Council chooses to move ahead with the planning and construction of a new civic building, it could serve as more than just a town hall. Many communities use their civic buildings to host other services or share public spaces with other organizations.
Public engagement period July 11 to September 30, 2023:
Before moving further ahead in the planning process, Council asked residents to weigh in about their visions and priorities.
On July 4, Council approved the preliminary public engagement plan and survey, which included the following components:
- Coffee with a Councillor.
- Speaking notes to assist Council in answering questions from the public.
- Direct conversations with members of the public.
- Invite members of the public to complete online survey
- Marketplace on Main (during Coffee with a Coucillor sessions)
- Direct conversations with members of the public
- Invite members of the public to complete online survey using tablet.
- Online survey published on the Town’s website, including town hall assessment and feasibility studies.
- As per #3, shared via social media channels.
- As per #3, shared via website registrants and in utilities newsletter.
- Engagement board in Town Office.
- Easel with information bulletin and comment cards to reach members of the public who visit the Town Office.
Council reviewed all feedback during its 2023 Service Level Review.
Click here to view the summary of public engagement and feedback.
In 2024, the Town consulted with local user groups to gauge interest and feasibility of collaborating on a new Civic Building. These consultations did not yield any building partnerships.
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This page was last updated on January 8, 2025
