Rocky View County
Signs, Signs,
everywhere there are Signs….
SO WHERE ARE MY SIGNS????
Missing and Damaged Election Signs
There is growing concern from the residents as to the whereabouts of my election signs. I’m told you need to buy more signs! Many of my signs have been removed, damaged, discarded in nearby fields, vandalized or torn out of the ground and disposed on private property.
Impact of Sign Removal
These actions have resulted in a significant reduction in the visibility of my campaign materials throughout the division 3 area.
The removal and destruction of election signs not only diminish campaign presence but also undermines the democratic process by restricting voter access to candidate information.
Support and Response to Sign Interference
Thanks to the generosity of my supporters, a new batch of election signs has been funded and will be placed throughout the area once again. These contributions are greatly appreciated and help restore the visibility of my campaign after recent incidents of sign removal and damage. Many of my signs have simply disappeared, anyone that has any information and know where my signs are, please contact me at votekissel.com Also, if you are driving along county roads and witness someone tampering with election signs, please take a photo of their vehicle licence plate. Documenting this information is the most effective way to address the issue and discourage further interference.
In the spirit of resilience: “When faced with adversity, we don’t just endure—we rise, adapt, and keep moving forward with determination.”
Open Letter to the Voters of Rocky View County
Your Voice. Your Vote. Your Future.
Dear Residents of Rocky View County,
As election day approaches, I want to remind you how powerful your voice truly is. Whether you have lived here for decades or just recently joined our community, your vote helps shape the future of Rocky View County.
Why Your Vote Matters
Voting is more than a right—it is a responsibility. Local elections directly affect our daily lives: our roads, emergency services, recreation, and how we protect our land and environment. By voting, you help decide the kind of community we build together.
Choose Leadership That Reflects You
Every ballot is a statement of what matters most to you - your family, your values, your priorities. We need leaders who listen, understand our County, and are committed to working for a stronger, safer, and more prosperous future for everyone.
Protecting Our Shared Future
Important decisions about growth, development, and environmental protection are being made right now. Your vote ensures those decisions reflect your values – not someone else’s. If you do not vote, others will decide for you.
Every Vote Counts
In past elections, results have come down to just a few votes. Yours could be the one that makes the difference.
How to Get Involved
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Confirm your voter registration status and polling station.
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Learn about the candidates and their platforms.
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Encourage your friends, family, and neighbours to vote.
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Vote early or on election day – showing up is paramount.
Let’s Shape Our Future Together
Rocky View County is more than just a place—it’s our home. When we show up to vote, we show that we care about our community and the generations to come.
Take a few moments to cast your ballot. Your vote is your voice—make it count.
Thank you for your commitment to Rocky View County.
Sincerely,
Crystal Kissel
Reeve/Councillor Div 3 of Rocky View County
Cochrane Lake Utility Update
Rate Increase Approval
In October, Council approved a 10% increase to the Water and Wastewater rates. This adjustment
will be implemented in 2026, reflecting Council’s commitment to ensuring the sustainability and
proper management of these essential services
Business Plan Development for RVC Utilities
Under Council’s direction, Administration has initiated a Request for Proposal (RFP) process. The
purpose of the RFP is to develop a comprehensive business plan outlining optimal strategies for the
operation of all Rocky View County’s (RVC) Utilities. This plan will guide future decision-making to
enhance service delivery and operational efficiency.
QUESTIONS ASKED WHILE CAMPAINGING
Growth & Development
How will you manage growth in Division 3 to balance rural character with economic development?
To support growth in Division 3 while preserving its rural character, I propose a balanced approach focused on responsible economic development and landscape protection. This includes directing new projects to approved ASP’s and areas with adequate infrastructure as outlined in the Municipal Development Plan, safeguarding agricultural land, and promoting careful zoning. Community input and fair developer contributions to infrastructure will ensure projects are suitable for residents and the environment, maintaining both economic vitality and the rural lifestyle.
What is your position on the new Municipal Development Plan (MDP) and its approach to focused growth and protecting agricultural land?
I support the new Municipal Development Plan (MDP), especially its focus on targeted growth and protecting agricultural land. Concentrating development in designated areas with proper infrastructure allows economic progress while preserving Division 3’s rural character and farmland. Keeping projects within approved Area Structure Plans, ensuring correct zoning, and requiring fair developer contributions will help ensure growth benefits residents without added tax burdens. Overall, the MDP offers a balanced approach to economic development and landscape preservation in Rocky View County.
How will you ensure that new developments pay for themselves and do not burden existing taxpayers?
Rocky View County has always supported that Development pays for Development. To ensure that new developments pay for themselves and do not place additional burdens on existing taxpayers, I support a policy where developers are required to contribute fairly to the costs associated with their projects. This includes making sure that all new developments are directed to areas with adequate infrastructure, as outlined in the Municipal Development Plan and approved Area Structure Plans. By enforcing proper zoning regulations and requiring developers to fund necessary infrastructure upgrades—such as roads, utilities, and community amenities—new growth can be managed responsibly. These measures help maintain the rural character of Division 3, protect agricultural land, and ensure that the financial impact of development is borne by those driving it, rather than by current residents.
What is your stance on large-scale projects like AI data centres, and how will you ensure they are located appropriately?
Large-scale projects such as AI data centres offer significant economic opportunities. My stance is that these projects should only be considered in areas where infrastructure can support them, as outlined in the Municipal Development Plan and approved Area Structure Plans. I will advocate for thorough community consultation, strict zoning regulations, and fair developer contributions to infrastructure costs. This approach will help ensure that AI data centres are located appropriately protecting agricultural land, maintaining the rural lifestyle, and preventing undue burdens on existing taxpayers. Responsible siting and ongoing oversight are essential to balance technological advancement with the long-term interests of our residents.
How will you involve residents in decisions about Area Structure Plans (ASPs) and major rezoning proposals?
Rocky View County already has a process fro engagement when it comes to public engagement. We involve residents in decisions about Area Structure Plans (ASPs) and major rezoning proposals, prioritizing open and ongoing community engagement throughout the planning process. This means holding public consultations and information sessions at key stages, providing clear and accessible updates through multiple channels, and welcoming feedback from all residents. By encouraging active participation, listening to local concerns, and ensuring transparency, we can make sure that development aligns with community values. Additionally, I support formal mechanisms for gathering input—such as surveys, town halls, and online forums—so that residents have meaningful opportunities to shape the direction of growth and ensure their voices are heard before decisions are made by Council.
Water Treatment & Usage
What steps will you take to ensure sustainable water supply and wastewater management as the county grows?
To ensure a sustainable water supply and effective wastewater management as Rocky View County grows, I will support a combination of forward-thinking policies and community engagement. First, new developments must be located in areas where water infrastructure can accommodate growth, as outlined in the Municipal Development Plan and approved Area Structure Plans. Developers are required to fund necessary upgrades to water and wastewater systems to prevent placing additional burdens on existing taxpayers. When it comes to wastewater management, we need to continue to work with neighboring municipalities to ensure source water protection, improved service quality and fair rates. Ongoing monitoring, transparent reporting, and opportunities for public feedback will be essential components to ensure that water and wastewater systems remain sustainable and responsive to community needs as we grow.
How will you enforce or enhance water conservation policies for new developments and existing properties? 
I will advocate for the enhancement of water conservation measures for both new and existing properties, including encouraging the use of efficient fixtures, promoting drought-resistant landscaping, and implementing best practices for water usage. Addressing drought risks remains a priority, so I support proactive planning based on recent warnings, including diversified water sources and contingency measures to reduce usage during dry periods.
Do you support the County's move toward exclusive control of water and wastewater utilities, and how will this impact rates and service quality?
I support the County’s move toward ownership of water and wastewater utilities, provided it is implemented with careful planning and accountability. Local control enables us to tailor service delivery to our community’s unique needs, prioritize sustainable management, and ensure that growth is aligned with our infrastructure capacity as outlined in the Municipal Development Plan and Area Structure Plans. With direct oversight, we can maintain higher standards for service quality, respond quickly to issues, and ensure transparent reporting to residents. Requiring developers to contribute to necessary system upgrades and by closely monitoring costs, we can prevent undue financial pressure on existing taxpayers. Ultimately, my goal is to maintain reliable, high-quality water and wastewater services while keeping rates reasonable and ensuring decisions reflect the community’s best interests. Exclusive control over water and wastewater utilities is not feasible in Rocky View County currently. This is because a significant portion of the rural areas are currently serviced by numerous water co-operatives and privately owned utilities. These existing arrangements present structural limitations that prevent the County from implementing a single, unified system for all residents.
One thing that frustrates me is the current water utility invoice where they charge a 1:1 ratio for water usage and sewer usage. I feel like it's obvious with our lot sizes and outdoor watering our sewer should be lower. What is your position on this?
I understand your frustration regarding the current 1:1 ratio for water and sewer charges on your utility invoice. With larger lot sizes and significant outdoor watering, it’s reasonable to expect that not all water used is returned to the sewer system. Many residents in Rocky View County share this concern, especially those who use substantial amounts of water for landscaping, gardening, or other outdoor purposes where the water does not enter the wastewater system. My position is that the County should review its billing practices to better reflect actual usage. Ideally, sewer charges should be based on the volume of water that is reasonably expected to enter the sewer system, not the total water consumed. This could involve seasonal rate adjustments, installing sub-meters for outdoor taps, or adopting alternative calculation methods that account for outdoor water use. Working towards a more equitable system would ensure fairness for residents and help build trust in our utilities.
Infrastructure & Services
How will you ensure infrastructure (roads, utilities, emergency services) keeps pace with residential and commercial growth?
To ensure that infrastructure—including roads, utilities, and emergency services—keeps pace with residential and commercial growth, I support proactive planning and ongoing investment guided by the Municipal Development Plan and Area Structure Plans. This approach involves: Strategic Forecasting: Using growth projections and regular community input to anticipate future infrastructure needs, ensuring upgrades and expansions are planned well in advance. Developer Contributions: Requiring developers to fund or contribute to necessary infrastructure improvements associated with new developments. This helps to minimize financial impacts on existing taxpayers and ensures that growth does not compromise service quality. Monitoring and Accountability: Closely tracking infrastructure costs and performance, with transparent reporting to residents to maintain trust and ensure funds are used effectively. Integrated Service Delivery: Coordinating with utility providers, emergency services, and relevant agencies to align infrastructure upgrades and service expansions with community growth, so residents receive reliable services as their needs evolve. Ultimately, my goal is to maintain safe, reliable infrastructure that supports both current and future residents and businesses, while keeping costs reasonable and ensuring decisions reflect the community’s best interests.
What is your plan for funding and maintaining critical infrastructure without overburdening taxpayers?
Rocky View County has demonstrated a strong commitment to the principle that development should pay for development. By implementing levies on new projects, the County ensures that the financial responsibility for necessary infrastructure improvements falls to those driving growth, rather than existing taxpayers. These levies allow Rocky View to collaborate effectively with neighbouring municipalities and the provincial government, facilitating the construction of major infrastructure projects that benefit the broader community. This approach ensures that infrastructure investments are both fair and sustainable. By aligning funding mechanisms with community growth, Rocky View is able to support the needs of residents and businesses while maintaining reasonable tax rates for all. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that infrastructure development serves the best interests of the community—promoting managed growth and long-term prosperity without placing undue financial burden on current residents.
Transparency & Accountability
How will you improve public engagement and transparency in council decisions?
There is always a need to assess and improve public engagement and transparency with council decisions, I will champion several key initiatives. I support regular and accessible public consultations, including town hall meetings, surveys, and online forums, to ensure that residents have meaningful opportunities to share their perspectives and concerns on proposed developments and municipal priorities. Currently communication of council agendas, decisions, and rationales through multiple channels—such as the County’s website, social media, and newsletters—so residents can stay informed and understand how decisions are made. Additionally, I will continue to promote transparent reporting on infrastructure costs, planning processes, and outcomes, allowing residents to track how their feedback influences council actions. By fostering a culture of openness and accountability, the county continues to build trust and ensure that council decisions genuinely reflect community input rather than external pressures. Continued efforts will help maintain a responsive and inclusive local government that puts residents’ best interests first.
What steps will you take to ensure development decisions reflect community input rather than developer pressure?
To ensure that development decisions reflect the genuine input of the community rather than developer pressure, The county needs to continue to prioritize robust public engagement and transparent council processes. This includes holding regular and accessible consultations—such as town hall meetings, surveys, and online forums—so residents have meaningful opportunities to voice their perspectives and concerns regarding proposed developments and municipal priorities. I will continue to advocate for clear communication of council agendas, decisions, and the reasoning behind them through various channels like the County’s website, social media, and newsletters. It is necessary to consider input from all individuals rather than focusing solely on those who are more vocal.
Environmental & Agricultural Protection
How will you protect agricultural land from being converted to industrial or residential use?
To protect agricultural land from being converted to industrial or residential use, I will continue to advocate for strong land use policies and zoning regulations, directing development to ASP’s that prioritize the preservation of prime farmland. This includes supporting comprehensive planning processes that identify and safeguard key agricultural areas, limiting non-agricultural development in these zones, and promoting the use of agricultural land for farming and related activities. I will also encourage ongoing public engagement to ensure that residents and stakeholders have a voice in decisions affecting local farmland, and work to balance growth with the need to maintain food security and rural character. By collaborating with provincial and regional authorities, as well as local farmers, we can develop strategies that support sustainable agriculture and prevent unnecessary loss of valuable agricultural land to development.
What measures will you support to safeguard groundwater and surface water quality during development?
To safeguard groundwater and surface water quality during development, I will continue to support measures that enforce stringent environmental standards and best management practices. The County has comprehensive site assessments required prior to development, implementing buffer zones around sensitive water bodies, and requiring the use of erosion and sediment control techniques to prevent runoff contamination. I will continue to support regular monitoring of water quality and transparent reporting so that residents can stay informed about the impacts of development projects. With provincial authorities, environmental experts that regulate the province ensuring that rules are followed and that development proceeds responsibly. By prioritizing the protection of water resources, we can maintain the health of our environment, support agricultural productivity, and ensure safe water for all community members.
Yard Signs Are Going Out!
We’re excited to share that the yard signs are going out! If you’d like one for your yard, please feel free to reach out at votekissel@gmail.com. We would be thrilled to deliver one to you. Thank you for your support!
