'I ❤️ SG' Conversation Series- Topic #1: Building Needed Amenities
- Erin Stevenson
- Aug 4
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 4
Spruce Grove Councillor Erin Stevenson is proud to launch her campaign for a third term under the banner “I ❤️ SG”—a positive, community-focused message reflecting her deep commitment to the people, places, and possibilities that make Spruce Grove special.
With a track record of championing high-quality amenities and responsible city planning, Stevenson is ready to continue building a city that families love to call home.
Watch the video:
LOVE: Investing in Key Amenities Makes Spruce Grove Great
“Our community is growing, and so is our list of top-notch amenities,” says Stevenson. “In this last term, we’ve added a couple of amazing new spaces to the mix.”
Spruce Grove’s long-standing hub, the TransAlta Tri Leisure Centre, remains the city's largest recreational amenity, built in 2002 in partnership with regional municipalities. Over the years, Spruce Grove has developed an impressive suite of public facilities including the Fuhr sports park, Henry Singer ball park, Jubilee Park splash park, Border Paving Athletic Centre, the Agrena, curling rink, the library, and the Horizon Stage.
Recently, two exciting additions have made waves:
Heavy Metal Place: Home to the Brett Ryan Memorial Community Arena, a spectator arena home to the Spruce Grove Saints, and vibrant community spaces including a black box theatre and a satellite library.
Re-Imagined Central Park: This revitalized area now features a new skate park, pump track, and mountain bike skills course, with a fully accessible playground and more gathering space to come.
Additionally, Columbus Park has been completely transformed into a flexible outdoor event
space as part of the city’s ongoing City Centre Revitalization.
IMPROVE: Plan Today, Preserve Tomorrow
As part of her re-election platform, Stevenson emphasizes long-term sustainability for Spruce Grove’s beloved spaces.
“We need a clear, 10-year view minimum of where each facility is in its lifecycle,” she says. “Proper planning means setting aside the right funds now so that we aren’t caught off guard later.” This includes dedicated reserve funds for the maintenance of all city-owned facilities—from the Tri-Leisure Centre to the newest spaces, it is about ensuring our asset are maintained and enjoyed for decades to come. The City has an Asset Management Policy CP-1016-19—ensuring Spruce Grove stays vibrant and well-maintained and are holistically manageed across their entire lifecycle in a safe, sustainable and encironmentally compliant manner. A reserves and accumulated surplus policy was passed in late 2024 that addresses municipal lifecycle (R7) and it is a great start to how we save with reserves, but does it go far enough? That is one of the questions being asked- are we saving enough in this particular reserve to be able to properly maintain and upgrade existing capital assets?
Stevenson is also advocating for Horizon Stage improvements, whether through building a new facility or upgrading the existing one to function as a stand-alone venue, knowing the future of the Horizon Stage must be addressed as construction on the new high school begins and the existing high school will be demolished. And as Re-Imagined Central Park continues to evolve, she pledges support for its future phases.
NEXT: What’s On the Horizon?
Looking ahead, Stevenson is backing the need for a much needed amenity— a public pool—indoor or outdoor—to support swim lessons, family fun, and lifelong water safety.
She also supports exploring the idea of a mini Nordic spa experience, one that is far more accessible and affordable than traditional offerings, should the outdoor pool be the next amenity built. “I believe in bold, community-centered ideas that reflect the needs of today and tomorrow,” she says. A pre-feasibility report for an aquatics facility was recently presented to Council and is a key part of future conversations.
Share your thoughts with Erin and connect with her on social media and don't forget to use the hashtag #IHeartSG. Show Erin support in her re-election campaign by requesting a lawn sign (request form is at the bottom of every webpage).
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