Council Highlights for September 28, 2026

The following is a summary of key discussions and decisions from the September 28, 2026, Regular Council Meeting. These highlights provide an overview of the items most relevant to residents and are not intended to replace the official meeting minutes:

Economic Development Committee Expands Regional Focus

Council considered final approval of an updated Economic Development Action Committee Bylaw that would broaden the committee’s focus beyond Olds to include more regional economic development work. The changes would allow up to nine members, including Town and Mountain View County representation, regional representatives and five public members, while giving the committee a more active role in supporting business growth, investment and regional projects.

Council Action: Council gave second and third readings to Bylaw 2026-22, approving the updated Economic Development Action Committee bylaw.

Natural Gas Franchise Agreement Moves Forward

Council considered first reading of a bylaw to renew the Town’s natural gas franchise agreement with ATCO Gas and Pipelines Ltd. The proposed 10-year agreement would take effect as early as July 1, 2027, and continue ATCO’s right to provide natural gas distribution service in Olds. The agreement remains subject to Alberta Utilities Commission approval.

Council Action: Council gave first reading to Bylaw 2026-30, beginning the process to renew the natural gas franchise agreement with ATCO Gas and Pipelines Ltd.

22-Unit Housing Proposal Considered On 54 Street

Council considered a 22-unit, three-storey residential development at 4829 54 Street with 11 one-bedroom and 11 three-bedroom units. Multi-unit housing is already permitted on the site, but Council approval was required because the proposal requested larger variances, including no common amenity space, reduced front and rear setbacks and landscaping covering 17.6% of the site instead of the required 25%. The project provides the required 28 parking spaces. Three of 14 neighbouring property owners who were notified submitted objections, and staff presented Council with both approval and refusal options.

Council Action: Council denied the development permit for the 22-unit multi-unit residential development at 4829 54 Street, citing concerns over the number of requested variances.  

Special Meeting Proposed For 2027 Budget Discussions

Council considered scheduling a special meeting for October 26 at immediately following the 3:00 PM Organizational Meeting. to begin discussions on the 2027 Budget and potentially consider upcoming Land Use Bylaw amendments.

Council Action: Council approved a Special Council Meeting for October 26, 2026 directly following the 3:00 PM Organizational Meeting for 2027 Budget discussions and other potential agenda items.

Council Considered Review of Data Centre Land Use Rules

Council considered Councillor Ben Chrusch’s motion directing staff to prepare options for how data centres and related uses are addressed in the Light Industrial District. The proposed review would look at approaches used in other municipalities and jurisdictions as Alberta develops updated guidance for data centre locations and setbacks, with options to return to Council by December 31, 2026.

Council Action: Council directed Administration to prepare options for how data centres and related uses are addressed in the Light Industrial District and return the options to Council by December 31, 2026.

These highlights touch briefly upon the key information presented and decisions made at the meeting. More from this meeting can be found on the Town’s website.

The next regular Council meeting is scheduled for October 13, 2026, at 1:00 PM.
Visit www.olds.ca/councilmeetings for all meeting agendas and minutes.