The Town of Bonnyville asked residents, property owners, and business owners to share their thoughts about living in Bonnyville and what the community needs to succeed over the next 10–20 years. Hundreds of people participated, and their feedback will directly shape the Municipal Development Plan.
Who Participated:
- Long‑term residents, newcomers, renters, homeowners, seniors, families, and business owners
- People working in Bonnyville and surrounding areas
- A wide range of household types and age groups
Top Themes from the Community
- Recreation & Community Facilities
Residents overwhelmingly identified recreation, especially aquatic facilities—as a top priority. Many shared concerns about the age, reliability, and suitability of current facilities and want options for all ages, not just organized sport.
- Roads & Winter Maintenance
People expressed frustration with:
- Road conditions and potholes
- Snow removal timing and consistency
- Sidewalk and alley maintenance
Residents want clearer service standards and better communication.
- Housing
Community members reported challenges with:
- Housing affordability
- Rental availability
- Finding homes that meet changing life needs
There is strong support for more housing choices that allow people to stay in Bonnyville long‑term.
- Downtown & Shopping
Many residents travel outside Bonnyville for shopping and dining. People want:
- A stronger downtown
- Fewer vacant buildings
- More retail and restaurant variety
- Safety & Social Issues
Concerns were raised about:
- Crime and property damage
- Public disorder
- Homelessness and social challenges
Residents want safer public spaces and better coordination between agencies.
- Communication & Transparency
People asked for:
- Clearer communication from the Town
- More transparency in decisions
- Better access to information beyond social media
How This Feedback Is Being Used
Your input is being used to:
- Shape Municipal Development Plan policies
- Guide future infrastructure planning
- Inform Council priorities and budgeting discussions
- Support grant applications and partnerships
Not all issues raised fall within municipal authority, but all feedback helps guide advocacy and long‑term planning.
Thank You
Thank you to everyone who took the time to participate. Your voices are helping shape the future of Bonnyville.
Long Answer Questions Summary
The following summarizes the results of a community survey on housing, services, recreation, infrastructure, and future growth in the Town of Bonnyville. Residents from a wide range of backgrounds provided feedback, offering valuable insight into both community strengths and current challenges.
While many respondents value Bonnyville’s small-town feel, outdoor recreation, and sense of community, key concerns were raised around housing affordability, road and infrastructure conditions, recreation facilities, crime and safety, communication, and long-term planning.
The feedback has been grouped into key themes to help Council understand resident priorities and inform future decisions, budgeting, and planning.
Top Key Issued Identified by Survey Results (Not in any specific order):
1.New Pool / Aquatic Centre Needed
The most consistently raised issue across responses, with strong demand for a modern, functional, and family-friendly facility.
2.Limited Recreation & Activities (Especially Winter)
Lack of things to do for kids, teens, adults, and families beyond sports; need for more indoor, affordable, year-round options.
3.Roads, Snow Removal & Infrastructure Issues
Ongoing concerns about potholes, poor road conditions, inconsistent snow clearing, drainage problems, and sidewalk maintenance.
4.Crime, Safety & Social Disorder
Concerns about drugs, homelessness, theft, and overall safety, particularly in public and family-oriented spaces.
5.Lack of Shopping, Restaurants & Business Variety
Limited retail options, especially clothing and affordable goods; frequent need to travel to other communities; desire for more diverse businesses and services.
6.High Cost of Living & Taxes
Residents feel increasing financial pressure (housing, food, taxes) and want better use of tax dollars with less perceived waste.
7.Housing Availability & Affordability
Need for more diverse housing options (affordable, family, senior, rental) and better support for long-term residents.
8.Jessie Lake Condition & Underuse
Concerns about smell, water quality, and limited usability, despite significant investment in the area.
9.Lack of Amenities & Community Services
Gaps in healthcare access, childcare, youth programs, senior services, and general community spaces.
10.Governance, Communication & Planning Concerns
Perception that council priorities do not align with residents, with concerns about transparency, spending decisions, and lack of long-term vision.