Kirsten Mundy

Multimedia Editor

The magazine Alberta Venture holds various competitions each year, seeking out the best places for business in Alberta. This year, after applying, Strathmore was awarded the title of the best small community for business.

"It's pretty neat," said Town CAO Dwight Stanford. "It's very, very positive."

He explained that the article highlights Strathmore not through the eyes of the town, but through the eyes of a developer of commercial land who raved about how awesome it has been working in Strathmore.

In addition to that great news, Strathmore Town Council was told at their regular council meeting on June 6 that even more commercial growth will be happening in Strathmore very soon.

In the Ranch Market there will be a Royal Bank built soon, and south of where the Days Inn is right now will be a strip mall built. Some of the tenants have already been determined, and Stanford said it will primarily be "really nice" retail space. Mayor Steve Grajczyk seemed quite excited about the future development, but couldn't release many details.

"One of those stores is going to be competition for Tim Hortons," said Grajczyk.

Getting the cup

Strathmore has been temporarily awarded the Alberta Cup, but a few conditions must first be met. Council voted to approve that work, acknowledging that the improvements won't just benefit the arena for that tournament.

"The town is trying to bring bigger and better events into town.... and this is accommodating the size and types of tournaments we can bring in," said Councillor Earl Best. "I am behind this."

For the 2013 and 2014 Alberta Cup hockey tournament there are some criteria that must be met, including upgrading the press box at the Strathmore Family Centre. That, combined with the addition of internet upgrades to the building, would total about $12,000. Council approved the expense.

Watering changes

Starting this watering season, Strathmore residents will be allowed to water their lawns from 5 to 10 a.m. and 5 to 10 p.m. each watering day. For a reminder of when your day is, and what you can and can't do on the off days, visit www.strathmore.ca.