When Jeff Colvin campaigned for mayor of Chestermere in 2021, he set out with a bold mission: to transform the small lakeside city into “the jewel of Alberta.” For Colvin, this wasn’t just a slogan to win votes. It was a roadmap for turning Chestermere into a community that could stand out as a destination to live, work, and thrive—while still holding on to its lakeside charm and small-town feel.
Tackling Debt and Taxes First
Colvin’s dream for Chestermere started with practical priorities: fixing the city’s finances. Residents were dealing with high property taxes and the weight of a $50 million city debt. Colvin pledged to bring his business background to the mayor’s office, promising to cut waste, renegotiate contracts, and deliver smarter spending. By stabilizing finances, he hoped to free up resources for projects that would enhance quality of life and build the city’s reputation across Alberta.
Recreation as a Cornerstone
One of the most visible parts of Colvin’s plan was his focus on recreation and community amenities. He envisioned adding a pool to the soccer field house, creating new recreational facilities under co-op models, and expanding opportunities for both youth and seniors. These ideas reflected his belief that families deserved access to high-quality facilities without being burdened by unsustainable costs. For Colvin, strong recreation options weren’t just conveniences—they were building blocks for a city’s identity.
Revitalizing Chestermere’s Civic Heart
Colvin also looked at Chestermere’s core spaces with fresh eyes. His vision included revitalizing the civic centre and surrounding it with a dynamic beachfront district. By adding condos, shops, restaurants, and even local breweries, he saw an opportunity to transform downtown into a social and economic hub. This, in his words, would give Chestermere a “heart”—a place for residents to gather, and a reason for visitors to explore.
Building for All Generations
Another key part of Colvin’s mission was inclusivity. He recognized that Chestermere’s growth had to work for everyone—from young families looking for schools and sports fields to seniors who needed housing options to stay close to loved ones. His vision for senior housing developments showed a commitment to creating a community where no one felt left behind.
Economic Growth and Opportunity
Beyond housing and recreation, Colvin tied his mission to economic opportunity. He spoke about attracting high-tech businesses, expanding commercial zones, and diversifying Chestermere’s tax base to ease pressure on homeowners. By encouraging business growth and creating jobs locally, he saw a chance to position Chestermere as more than just a commuter town next to Calgary.
A Jewel in the Making
Jeff Colvin’s dream of making Chestermere, Alberta’s jewel was rooted in both ambition and practicality. He offered a plan that combined fiscal discipline with bold ideas for development, recreation, and community connection. While his tenure faced challenges, the mission he set out with still resonates: that Chestermere has the potential to be more than a suburb. It can be a vibrant, self-sustaining city that shines brightly on Alberta’s map.
