Cold Lake city council has opted to attend an upcoming regional Chamber of Commerce event without committing to sponsorship funding, instead treating the opportunity as a council engagement initiative.

The discussion came forward as a request tied to the “Your Region, Your Voice” event, co-hosted by the Bonnyville and Cold Lake Chambers of Commerce.

Administration clarified early on that the request was not a typical grant application.

“We wanted to take just an approach on this one… the chamber is not coming necessarily out with a kind of a CRACH grant ask for this,” administration told council.

Focus on participation, not funding

The event, scheduled for May 21, will bring together regional leaders, including mayors, MLAs and Members of Parliament, for a moderated discussion with the business community.

Administration framed the opportunity as a chance for council to be present and engaged, rather than to provide financial support.

“This would be an opportunity for council to attend,” administration said.

Council considered whether to sponsor a table for $1,500 or simply purchase individual tickets.

“I think there’s been some conversation… do you sponsor to get a table… or does council just simply… purchase [tickets] to be able to have access,” administration said.

Keeping it separate from grant funding

A key part of the discussion focused on avoiding confusion with the City’s grant programs.

Administration intentionally kept the request outside of the CRACH grant stream to ensure consistency with policy and avoid setting precedent.

“We just didn’t want to confuse it within that grant context… the chamber’s not necessarily asking,” administration said.

Decision reflects engagement approach

Council ultimately supported attending the event by purchasing individual tickets as needed, rather than committing to a formal sponsorship.

Administration noted the value of participation regardless of the funding approach.

“I think it’s beneficial for council to be there,” administration said.

The decision allows council members to engage in regional discussions while maintaining clear boundaries between sponsorships and the City’s formal grant processes.