Bentley Greenlights Southeast Growth Plan, Pursues Major Arena Upgrade
BENTLEY – Town Council unanimously approved the first step for a new community growth plan and committed to a potential six-figure upgrade for the Bentley Arena at its meeting Tuesday night.
Council gave first reading to the Southeast Area Structure Plan (ASP), a blueprint for future residential and commercial development. They also approved a grant application for a $353,150 project to overhaul the arena’s lighting and ceiling, committing the town’s half of the cost if the grant is successful.
Southeast Growth Plan Moves to Public Hearing
The most significant long-term decision of the night was the initial approval of the Southeast Area Structure Plan. The plan, presented by Albert Flootman of Parkland Community Planning Services, lays out the vision for how land in the southeast part of Bentley will be developed in the coming years.
An ASP functions as a master plan, guiding council’s decisions on future zoning, road networks, parks, and trail systems. It provides certainty for both developers and current residents about what to expect as the town grows.
After a period of questioning, council voted unanimously to give the enabling bylaw its first reading. The plan is not yet final.
Why It Matters: This plan will directly shape the look and feel of a large section of Bentley for decades. It impacts property values, infrastructure needs, and the town's overall character. Residents will have a formal opportunity to voice their opinions on the proposal.
What's Next: A Public Hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers. Following the hearing, council will consider a second and third reading to formally adopt the plan.
Council Seeks Grant for $353K Arena Overhaul
Council also unanimously approved a grant application to the Municipal Climate Change Action Centre (MCCAC) for a major energy-efficiency project at the Bentley Arena.
The project includes replacing existing lighting with a new LED system and installing a low-emissivity ceiling to improve insulation and reduce energy costs.
The total estimated cost is $353,150. If the grant application is successful, the MCCAC would cover 50% of the cost. The town’s motion commits its share of $176,575 from the general capital reserve fund to complete the project.
Why It Matters: The arena is a central piece of community infrastructure. The upgrades are intended to lower the facility's long-term operating costs and environmental footprint. The town’s financial commitment is contingent on receiving the grant, protecting taxpayers from funding the entire project alone.
The Debate
No opposition was recorded on the night's major decisions. Both the first reading of the ASP bylaw and the arena grant application were passed with unanimous votes from all councillors present.
The minutes note that councillors asked “numerous questions” during the ASP presentation before proceeding with the vote.
Other Business
* Tourism Update: Council heard a presentation from Lacombe Regional Tourism, which highlighted its efforts to promote local events like the Bentley Town Wide Garage Sale and the Bentley Farmers Market.
* Spending Approved: A list of pre-paid town cheques totaling $48,348.51 was approved as a routine financial item.
* Closed Session: Council concluded the public portion of its meeting and entered a closed session to discuss a land matter, as permitted under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. No decisions were announced following the session.