Growth across the Lakeland region is creating new opportunities for local businesses — but also putting pressure on housing, infrastructure and services.

That was the focus of a recent Business Support Network meeting hosted by the Bonnyville & District Chamber of Commerce, where local business owners, municipal leaders and provincial representatives gathered to discuss what’s happening on the ground.

Bonnyville–Cold Lake–St. Paul MLA Scott Cyr attended the meeting, calling it an important opportunity to hear directly from the business community.

“These conversations matter. Hearing directly from the business community helps keep the focus on what is happening here at home,” Cyr said.

Growth driving demand across sectors

Discussions centred around major projects impacting the region, including ongoing oil and gas activity and the upcoming expansion at 4 Wing Cold Lake.

According to Cyr, that growth is already translating into increased demand across trades, services and local suppliers.

“Growth is happening, creating real opportunity for local businesses, with increased demand already being felt,” he said.

 

Pressure building on infrastructure and housing

Alongside that growth, business leaders raised concerns about keeping pace with demand — particularly when it comes to infrastructure and workforce capacity.

Key issues discussed included:

• Continued improvements to Highway 28
• Housing availability for workers and families
• Workforce development
• Access to healthcare

“As this growth continues, it is important to stay ahead of the pressures that come with it,” Cyr said.

Progress on infrastructure projects, including Highway 28, was also noted as part of the broader conversation.

 

Regional collaboration highlighted

The meeting brought together representatives from multiple levels of local government, including MD of Bonnyville councillors Caroline Palmer and Josh Crick, as well as Town of Bonnyville councillor David Sharun.

Cyr said collaboration between municipalities, businesses and the province will be key to managing growth effectively.

“When the province, municipalities, businesses, and community partners are all pulling in the same direction, we can meet these challenges,” he said.

 

Looking ahead

Cyr said input from the business community helps shape advocacy efforts at the provincial level, particularly when it comes to infrastructure, housing and economic development.

The meeting reflects ongoing efforts to ensure the region is not only keeping up with growth, but positioned to benefit from it long term.