Coaldale: A look back at 2024, a look ahead at 2025

Posted on December 31, 2024 by Sunny South News

By Nerissa McNaughton
Southern Alberta Newspapers

Coaldale had a very active year in 2024; Mayor Jack Van Rijn shares some of the highlights and his thoughts on the year ahead.

“I am extremely proud of our Council and our administration team who have worked very hard to attract investment in Coaldale,” Van Rijn says. 

“In April, NewCold announced a $222 million investment to build a state-of-the-art cold storage facility in Coaldale’s industrial park. This facility is expected to create over 50 permanent jobs and up to 200 construction positions. This is the single largest investment in the history of Coaldale.”

Other investments include a potable water reservoir and pump station, which will more than double the town’s water storage capacity from 3,400 m³ to 8,300 m³; and the Coaldale Industrial Rail Project, a 1.6 km rail spur line.

“Prairie Winds Secondary School opened on October 4 for grades 7-12, with a capacity of up to 855 students,” he adds, “and the Shift Community Recreation Centre opened on July 3.”

On the residential side, Phase 1 of the Malloy Landing subdivision offered 42 lots for purchase in the summer of 2024. The subdivision is expected to accommodate 1,200 to 1,500 new residents over the next 5-10 years.

“Coaldale will become one of the first Alberta towns to allow golf carts on select roads as part of a new provincial pilot program,” says Van Rijn. “This five-year initiative aims to provide our municipality with flexible transportation options for residential developments bordering Land-O-Lakes Golf & Country Club.”

A major highlight was Coaldale hosting nearly 2,000 athletes and coaches from across the province during the Southern Alberta Summer Games.

When asked about what challenged him during the year, Van Rijn reflects, “The challenge for me is budget deliberation to balance its 2025-2027 operating budget. Council needed to find an additional $972,583 in revenue. This necessity arose not only due to inflation but also from the province’s recent decision to prohibit photo radar speed enforcement on all provincial highways and restrict its use to school zones, playground zones, and construction zones.”

He continues, “Since October 2023, the national inflation rate has increased by 2 per cent. In Alberta, however, the inflation rate rose by 3 per cent, meaning that just as individual Albertans pay 3 per cent more for goods and services today than they did a year ago, so too do their municipal governments. The province’s decision to prohibit photo radar speed enforcement on all provincial highways resulted in a net loss of approximately $400,000 in operating revenue for the Town.”

Van Rijn continues, “Council remains committed to preserving the services that residents have come to rely on and value. Recognizing the importance of maintaining essential community services, Council has opted to raise residential property taxes by 2.85 per cent. Each year, Council must pass a balanced budget, ensuring the long-term financial sustainability of the Town while striving to meet the community’s expectations for quality services and infrastructure.”

Overall, residents are enjoying a safe, happy, and prosperous life in Coaldale.  

“A community survey revealed that 80 per cent of respondents rated their quality of life in Coaldale as high or moderately high, and 95 per cent would recommend living in the town,” says Van Rijn. “The assessed value of Coaldale’s business sector doubled over six years, reaching nearly $169 million.”

Looking ahead, the top three priorities for 2025 are:

• Infrastructure and Utility Upgrades: 

• Completion of the potable water reservoir project.

• Advancement of stormwater infrastructure, including the Malloy Drain Phase 2B and the Interceptor Stormwater Pond. 

• Ongoing road and alley rehabilitation projects to maintain and improve transportation routes. 

• Community Development and Economic Growth:

• Expansion of the industrial park, particularly through the development related to the NewCold facility. 

• Pursuit of additional commercial developments and residential growth supported by key infrastructure projects.

• Continued efforts toward downtown revitalization, including completing the Civic Square project and attracting new businesses. 

• Advocacy for Public Safety and Healthcare:

• Securing sustainable funding and fair cost-sharing models for policing and emergency services.

• Improving medical emergency response times and advocating for expanded healthcare services in Coaldale.

• Enhancing public safety through new emergency services policies, expanded emergency response capabilities, and updated by-laws. 

Van Rijn notes, “Coaldale residents can look forward to several exciting new initiatives and programs.”

These include:

• Construction of a new skatepark

• A 33-foot tall indoor playground

• Outdoor Civic Square enhancements

• Expansion of the West Industrial park

• Wetland and park enhancements

• A larger and more dynamic Summer Fest program

• A lineup of community events that celebrate everything from diversity to athletics 

• And more

Balancing diverse opinions and priorities in Coaldale involves open communication, inclusive representation, and transparent decision-making.  

Van Rijn says, “We engage residents through consultations, town halls, surveys, and open houses to ensure all voices are heard. Our diverse Town Council reflects various community perspectives, while annual strategic planning aligns priorities with economic, social, and environmental needs. Advisory committees provide specialized insights, and regular updates—through council reports, social media, and a YouTube channel—keep residents informed. Collaborative partnerships with local organizations and neighboring municipalities address broader issues.”

Part of this attention to detail involves keeping an eye on the politics of our southern neighbours. Mayor Van Rijn knows what happens in America could affect Coaldale, “particularly through its influence on trade, agriculture, energy, and the local economy.” 

“If tariffs or trade disputes arise, agricultural sectors like potato farming, egg production, and haskap berry farming could face economic uncertainty. Coaldale’s economy is heavily driven by agriculture, with many local producers exporting goods to the U.S. Conversely, favourable trade agreements could boost exports. With southern Alberta’s connection to the energy industry, including Coaldale’s role in supporting regional infrastructure projects like the NewCold facility and the Coaldale Industrial Rail Project, U.S. energy policies could influence local job creation and investment potential.”

Overall Coaldale has had a successful year with the local government continuing to work hard to ensure the best possible outcomes for the region’s residents and businesses. 

Van Rijn concludes, “I am inspired by the rich history and enduring spirit of Coaldale. Seeing how past leaders built the foundations of our town motivates me to continue that legacy. Celebrating milestones and launching new projects reminds me that progress is possible through dedication and collaboration. Serving in a leadership role has deepened my belief that strong relationships create lasting change. Collaborating with dedicated team members, community organizations, and volunteers motivates me to work harder. Seeing the positive impact that comes from collective efforts reinforces the power of partnership and shared purpose.

“The community’s spirit is evident during events and gatherings where residents of all ages come together with pride and enthusiasm. Witnessing this shared sense of belonging inspires me to continue striving for a safe, prosperous, and inclusive future.”