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Category: Business

  • Okotoks Food Bank’s truck targeted in catalytic converter theft

    It looks like the food bank's truck was a "hot" target for thieves.

    Volunteers at the Okotoks Food Bank were left stunned after discovering that their truck’s catalytic converter had been stolen from a secure facility on October 1. According to executive director Bente Yanota, the truck was being kept at a secure location with security measures in place, but the thief was still able to saw off the converter in two places.

    The theft has left the food bank to navigate the process of filing a police report and working through insurance to resolve the issue. In the meantime, the food bank has arranged to rent another truck to continue its regular pickups, which are essential to its operations.

    The catalytic converter, which is typically worth between $100 and $1,800 in Calgary, depending on the vehicle make and model, was stolen despite the food bank’s efforts to keep it secure. Yanota has since had to learn more about catalytic converters and is exploring preventative measures, such as etching a vehicle’s VIN into the converter.

    The Okotoks Food Bank will continue to operate as usual while it waits for its truck to be fixed and will receive a rented replacement truck next week. The food bank will also continue collecting donations as it prepares for its Christmas hamper campaigns.

  • Erratic Players Bring Beloved Tale of Robin Hood to Okotoks Stage

    The Erratic Players are "hoodwinking" audiences with their unique take on the classic tale.

    A local theatre company is bringing its unique take on the classic tale of Robin Hood to Okotoks. The Erratic Players, a theatre company known for its innovative productions, will present The Adventures of Robin Hood at the Old Church Theatre starting October 2.

    The production features a small cast, including Logan Coutts and Jeff Hoffman, who will take audiences on a thrilling adventure through the story of Robin Hood as he robs from the rich, dodges the Sheriff, and fights for justice.

    “It’s an hour of quick-paced fast comedy, sword fights, daring rescues, and a healthy dose of just wacky anarchy,” Coutts said, describing the show’s unique blend of humor and action.

    The Erratic Players‘ production of Robin Hood was originally performed at the Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival, where it received overwhelming positive reviews and sold out. The company is now bringing the show to Okotoks for the first time, and the cast is excited to perform in front of their friends, family, and community.

    The show will have six performances at the Old Church Theatre, with matinee performances on October 3 and October 10. Tickets are available online, and free crafts will be available before the shows.

  • Fisher Place Detour in Okotoks to Continue Until October 6

    It's a "pipe" dream come true for Okotoks businesses to have access to the town's underground infrastructure!

    A detour is in place on Fisher Place in Okotoks until October 6, 2026, as crews work to connect a new business development to the town’s underground water, sanitary sewer, and storm sewer infrastructure.

    The detour, which started on September 10, 2026, is in effect 24 hours a day, with construction taking place from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays and Saturdays. A temporary recycled asphalt detour road has been installed to minimize dust and maintain vehicle access.

    • Construction crews, heavy equipment, and construction-related noise will be present during working hours.
    • Minor traffic delays and temporary changes to traffic patterns can be expected in the immediate area.
    • Access to surrounding businesses will be maintained during construction.

    The Town of Okotoks has installed traffic control signage in the area, and residents are advised to use caution when traveling through the area.

    View a photo of the detour on the Town of Okotoks website.

  • Okotoks Families Invited to Explore Local Health and Wellness Services at Upcoming Expo

    It's time to "grow" your knowledge of local health and wellness services!

    A new community event is aiming to connect Okotoks families with local businesses focused on health and wellness. The first annual Strong Women, Healthy Children: The Foothills Health Expo is coming up on October 3 at the Okotoks Alliance Church from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

    The Expo will feature 40 local vendors offering health and wellness services focused on women, children, and families. This event was inspired by the need to showcase local businesses that cater to families, as many residents often turn to Calgary-based services despite having similar options available in Okotoks.

    Event organizer Nicole Fernell, a local business owner, hopes to bring the community together to discover the many health and wellness services available in Okotoks. In addition to health and wellness vendors, the Expo will also feature face painters, a bakery, and activities for youth such as sensory kits.

    The Millarville Mutts and Mustangs 4H Club will host a 50/50 draw and a barbecue lunch during the event. Fernell’s goal is to ensure that Okotoks families have access to the local businesses that can help them achieve their wellness goals and support their children’s growth and development.

  • 100 Years of Curling Community in Okotoks Celebrated with Events and Reflections

    "Rocking" a century of curling in Okotoks!

    Okotoks’ rich curling history dates back to the early days of the sport, when local curlers would gather on the frozen Sheep River to play the game. The Oilfields Curling Club (OCC), formerly the Turner Valley Oilfields Curling Association, has been a cornerstone of the community for nearly a century.

    From its humble beginnings, the club has grown and evolved, with members adapting to changing times and technologies. In the early days, curlers would bring their own rocks to the rink, made from handmade wooden materials with iron handles. The club’s first home was built near the Turner Valley Gas Plant, featuring three sheets of natural ice.

    Over the years, the OCC has hosted numerous provincial championships and has produced many talented curlers, including those who have gone on to compete at the national level. The club’s junior curling program has also been a source of pride, with several young athletes developing their skills and competing in provincial and national championships.

    Today, the OCC is a thriving community hub, with over 166 registered curlers and a variety of leagues available for players of all skill levels. The club’s 100th anniversary celebrations are underway, featuring events such as an open house, Learn to Curl program, and special edition of the Little Brown Jug Bonspiel.

    “This club has been a great place to get to know the community,” said OCC 100 Year Committee member Judy Price. “It’s a welcoming place, with any skill level welcome to join the league.”

    The OCC’s commitment to community and curling is evident in its many achievements and milestones. As the club looks to the future, it remains a vital part of Okotoks’ cultural fabric, providing a space for people to come together and enjoy the sport they love.

  • Okotoks Food Bank Honors Community Volunteers

    Okotoks diners will soon have another reason to beef up their lunch plans.

    The Okotoks Food Bank recently celebrated the dedication of its volunteers, who play a vital role in supporting the community through various tasks throughout the year.

    On September 14, the organization held a volunteer appreciation event to recognize the time and energy donated by these individuals.

    Volunteers contribute to the food bank’s work by helping with tasks such as growing food, collecting and sorting donations, assembling food hampers, and maintaining the Help Yourself Shelf program.

    “Every one of these jobs plays an important part in how we are able to support our community,” the Okotoks Food Bank stated on social media. “We truly could not do what we do without you.”

    The Okotoks Food Bank relies on volunteers to help provide essential services to the community, and their efforts are greatly appreciated.

    PUN: The food bank’s volunteers are the “root” of its success.

  • Fisher Place Detour in Place for Okotoks Utility Work

    It's a "drain" on traffic, but the work will eventually "flow" smoothly.

    PROJECT LOCATION

    86 Fisher Place, near Dreams Car Wash and Napa, is currently under construction for underground utility tie-ins.

    TYPE OF WORK

    The work involves storm sewer, sanitary sewer, and water tie-ins into the Town of Okotoks’ infrastructure for a new business development.

    SCHEDULE

    • Construction began on September 10, 2026, and is expected to be completed by September 23, 2026.
    • Work hours are Monday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

    IMPACTS

    • A minor detour is in place to safely direct vehicles around the construction site.
    • A temporary recycled asphalt detour road has been installed to maintain vehicle access and minimize dust, particularly for vehicles entering and exiting the adjacent car wash.
    • Traffic detours will remain in place 24 hours a day for the duration of the work.
    • Residents are advised to use caution and follow all posted traffic control signage when traveling through the area.

    WHAT TO EXPECT

    • Construction crews, heavy equipment, and construction-related noise will be present during working hours.
    • Minor traffic delays and temporary changes to traffic patterns in the immediate area can be expected.
    • Access to surrounding businesses will be maintained during construction.

    WHY THIS WORK IS HAPPENING

    This work is necessary to connect the development at 86 Fisher Place to the Town of Okotoks’ existing underground water, sanitary sewer, and storm sewer infrastructure.

    View a photo of the construction site.

  • Downtown Okotoks Revitalized: North Railway Street Reopens After Two-Year Construction Project

    The town's downtown area is now "on track" for success.

    After two construction seasons, North Railway Street in downtown Okotoks has finally reopened to the public. The Town of Okotoks has officially announced the completion of the Downtown Improvement Project, which aimed to revitalize the area by replacing aging infrastructure, moving utilities underground, and enhancing the streetscape.

    The project, which began in 2025 and continued this year, involved replacing water and sewer infrastructure, relocating overhead power lines, and making various above-ground improvements throughout the downtown corridor. Crews also widened sidewalks, upgraded street lighting, and added seating areas and new boulevard trees.

    Additionally, Triangle Park and nearby public spaces received landscaping and pedestrian connection improvements as part of the project. The Town of Okotoks’ community identity manager, Chris MacIsaac, praised the work, stating that it represents a significant investment in the downtown core.

    “The improvements create a more accessible and inviting environment for residents and visitors while supporting the continued vibrancy of the area’s business community,” MacIsaac said.

    Despite the construction, which brought road closures, detours, and changes to parking and access, businesses along the corridor remained open. MacIsaac thanked downtown businesses and residents for their patience and partnership throughout the project.

    For more information about the Downtown Improvement Project, visit the Town of Okotoks’ Shape Our Town website page.

  • Downtown Okotoks Revitalized: North Railway Street Reopens After Major Upgrades

    The streets of Okotoks are finally "on track" after the major downtown upgrades.

    After two years of construction, North Railway Street in downtown Okotoks has finally reopened, boasting a revitalized streetscape and improved infrastructure. The project, which began in 2025 and continued in 2026, focused on renewing critical underground infrastructure, enhancing accessibility, and creating inviting public spaces.

    • The construction spanned two seasons, with the first phase taking place between Elm Place and Alberta Avenue in 2025, and the second phase extending from Alberta Avenue to McRae Street in 2026.
    • The project aimed to create a more accessible and vibrant downtown area, supporting local businesses and encouraging community connection.

    According to Chris MacIsaac, Community Identity Manager, the improvements represent a significant investment in the heart of the community. “The renewed infrastructure and public spaces create a more inviting environment for residents and visitors, while supporting the continued vibrancy of the area’s business community,” he said.

    The project’s success is attributed to the partnership and resilience of downtown businesses and residents, as well as the ongoing support of visitors who continued to shop and dine in the area during construction.

    The reopening of North Railway Street marks an important milestone in the Town’s efforts to renew downtown infrastructure and strengthen the area as a welcoming destination for residents, businesses, and visitors.

    Learn more about the project at: https://shapeourtown.okotoks.ca/downtown

  • Okotoks Businesses Invited to Share Insights in Confidential Survey

    "Business as usual" just got a whole lot more interesting in Okotoks!

    Okotoks business owners and managers are being asked to share their experiences and ideas to help shape the town’s business community. The Town of Okotoks has launched a Business Satisfaction Survey as part of its Business Retention and Expansion work, aiming to gather feedback on the issues, opportunities, and support resources that are most important to local businesses.

    The survey, conducted by Deloitte Canada, is a quick and confidential way for businesses to share their thoughts on what’s working well and what areas need improvement. The feedback will help guide the Town on future economic development activities and support resources.

    Phone calls from Deloitte Canada will be made to local businesses, and participants are encouraged to take the time to answer the questions. The survey takes about 15 minutes to complete, and all responses will remain confidential. As a thank you, participants will also have the option to enter a draw for a 2027 Town of Okotoks Business Licence, valued up to $500.

    For more information or to ask questions, businesses can contact the Town of Okotoks’ Economic Development team through their website.

    Contact Us – Economic Development