'I ❤️ SG' Conversation Series Topic #3- Investing in Utilities
- Erin Stevenson
- Aug 6
- 3 min read
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.
Cleaner, Smarter, Greener Utilities for a Resilient Spruce Grove
As she campaigns for a third term on Council, Erin Stevenson continues to share the accomplishments and forward-thinking ideas that shape her “I 💙 SG” vision. From water to waste, Stevenson’s commitment to environmental sustainability and smart municipal utility management is helping Spruce Grove prepare for today—and tomorrow.
Watch the video:
LOVE: Foundations for a Resilient Future
In November 2023, Council approved the Municipal Solid Waste Utility Bylaw, laying the groundwork for a self-sustaining, transparent system that supports waste collection, recycling, and landfill diversion efforts across the city. This utility model ensures funding is dedicated to maintaining essential services while offering a long-term, sustainable approach.
“Our goal is always to build systems that grow with our community,” says Stevenson. “And that means planning ahead—for both people and the planet.”
Spruce Grove also completed its Stormwater Master Plan, a significant document that includes flood mapping, infrastructure assessment, and climate change adaptation. It identifies the needs of stormwater facilities over the next decade and beyond, providing a solid roadmap for keeping communities safe and dry.
To enhance transparency, the city now reports annually on inspections, maintenance, and the condition of its sanitary, water, and stormwater systems. This level of accountability ensures that the public—and Council—can track how well the systems are functioning.
A recent pilot project may be the most visible (and beautiful) of them all: aeration fountains, are being tested in local storm ponds. These systems circulate the water, reduce algae, and offer gentle white noise—complete with lights that bring visual charm. “These fountains aren’t just functional—they’re beautiful to look at,” Stevenson notes. “And judging by the number of residents asking for them in their own neighbourhood ponds, we think this pilot could be a big win.”
IMPROVE: Clarifying What Storm Ponds Are—and Aren’t
Storm ponds are essential infrastructure—not decorative lakes—and Stevenson believes it’s time to clear up some of the public confusion.
“People often expect a pristine, manicured pond, but that actually works against the science of stormwater management,” she explains. “We’re naturalizing ponds so they function properly.” That means allowing natural vegetation to take hold in key areas. It’s not about abandoning maintenance—it’s about changing how it’s done. Natural grasses and native plants help absorb and filter water, while crowding out invasive species. However, Stevenson recognizes that residents need more communication and clear signage to understand why ponds look the way they do, and how long they take to mature.
“There’s still maintenance,” she clarifies. “It just looks different—and it’s guided by ecology, not landscaping trends.”
NEXT: Scaling Up, Planning Ahead
Looking ahead, Stevenson is already thinking about next steps: more fountains in more storm ponds as part of the city’s corporate plan, and more robust infrastructure to meet the realities of increasingly extreme weather events.
“We’ve seen intense rain, wild windstorms, and massive snowfalls. We can’t just react—we need to plan our systems to handle it from the start.”
As Spruce Grove grows, so must its resilience. That’s something Stevenson is proud to keep at the heart of her campaign.
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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