Sylvan Lake's Strategic Plan serves as the Town's highest level policy document and guides the work that we do within the community.

2023 Progress Report

Vision, mission, and guiding principles

All municipal activities must reflect these core strategic planning elements; our vision, mission, and guiding principles.

Vision

The Town of Sylvan Lake is a thriving, connected lakeside community that is resident focused, visitor friendly, and THE place to do business.

Mission

Deliver responsible municipal services and infrastructure that support an outstanding quality of life, unforgettable experiences, and a strong, diverse economy.

Values

We are respectful, honest and kind. We appreciate different perspectives. We act in the best interest of the municipality.

We are consistent and inclusive in our bylaws, budgets and policies. We make well-informed decisions and take measured actions. We take responsibility for our actions and strive for mutual understanding through clear and accessible communication.

We seek contribution, ask and invite questions and comments. We listen to understand. We provide accessible and inclusive opportunities for feedback and participation.

We are creative and forward thinking. We improve our performance continuously, taking measured risks on new ideas. We celebrate success and learn from failure.

We respect the individual and strive to provide equal access and opportunities for all to succeed.

Strategic Priority Areas

We are committed to creating a safe and healthy community where residents are engaged and feel a sense of belonging. We will encourage people to come together, interact with each other, and build relationships through inclusive accessible programs, services, events, and public gathering places.

Strategic Priorities:

  • Foster a sense of community and belonging among residents
  • Ensure community services and amenities are inclusive and accessible and built to support the diverse needs of residents

We are committed to creating an attractive business environment with a diverse economy that allows businesses to thrive and grow. We will support and attract new investment that creates high quality jobs and brings new residents to our community. We recognize that tourism is an integral part of our economy and support year-round tourism as it enhances our vibrant community.

Strategic Priorities:

  • Position the Town as a preferred location for business investment
  • Promote a vibrant downtown core that meets the needs of residents and attracts visitors
  • Increase year-round tourism and events

We are committed to developing sustainable infrastructure that supports the needs of current and future Sylvan Lakers and to building high quality community facilities that enrich the lives of our residents and attracts visitors to the community.

Strategic Priorities:

  • Plan for and develop high-quality, long-lasting infrastructure and facilities that meet the needs of residents and supports future growth

We are committed to being accountable to our residents by providing transparent and accessible information and delivering a high-quality customer service experience. We will foster innovation in an effort to drive efficiency and operate sustainably through responsible fiscal management that is supported by clear, well-informed decision making.

Strategic Priorities:

  • Establish fiscal sustainability through efficient and effective use of resources, innovative actions and new sources of funding
  • Maintain high quality service levels by promoting and supporting a dynamic internal workforce that is agile, resilient, and highly skilled
  • Provide meaningful communication and engagement opportunities that respond to the diversity of the population in a transparent and open manner

Council's Advocacy Priorities (updated July 2025)

GOAL: Advocating for our current Advanced Ambulatory Care Centre to be upgraded to an Urgent Care Centre, with expanded hours and staffing, so it can better meet the growing needs of our community today and into the future.

UPDATE: The Town will continue to maintain official representation on Healthcare Attraction and Retention Team (H.A.R.T.) and will further advocate for strong healthcare options in Sylvan Lake. Community members, Town Council, and Administration work together to help support the goal of recruiting and retaining health professionals in our community. Read more here.

GOAL: Advocating for a new high school to ensure that families have access to high quality educational facilities.

UPDATE: As of March 19, 2025, the Government of Alberta awarded pre-planning dollars toward the development of a public and catholic combined high school in Sylvan Lake. Administration and Council are supporting pre-planning work and look forward to a successful process of enhancing education in our community. Read more here.

GOAL: Advocating for services to support victims of crime within our community.

UPDATE: Council is happy to now have a regional victim service unit that supports Sylvan Lakers. Victims of crime now have access to reliable and consistent supports and services wherever they may be, and not just in communities that have an RCMP detachment or a local Victim Service unit. Read more here.

GOAL: Advocating for recognition as a resort municipality, or an equivalent status, that results in financial support for the unique challenges experienced from being a tourist destination.

UPDATE: These discussions are in consultation with the Province of Alberta. There is no further update at this time.

GOAL: Advocate for strategic tourism investment and accommodation development to elevate Sylvan Lake (and the Olds-to-Lacombe Zone) from an Emerging to Breakthrough Destination, aligning with Travel Alberta’s growth priorities