By Adam Ophus

Public Hearing

Rocky residents will get their say on the future of VLTs

Feb 20, 2020 | 1:58 PM

Residents of Rocky Mountain House will soon have their say on whether the Town lifts the ban on Video Lottery Terminals from local establishments.

In September, Rocky Town Council instructed administration to advise Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) that they were in support of having VLTs in the community.

It was in 1997 when residents voted in a plebiscite to ban VLTs from Rocky Mountain House. In 2009, another public vote was held regarding the matter and VLT’s were once again voted down.

Chief Administrative Officer Dean Krause explained that one of the hurdles they had with the AGLC was that no bylaw or resolution was passed by council following the 2009 vote.

“We had to go back to the 1997 plebiscite and AGLC said that according to the Municipal Government act, section 240, that after ten years council can make the new decision,” Krause said.

Last seen Nov. 28

Missing: Jimmy Eagle, 27, of Maskwacis

Dec 14, 2025

the situation is dire

Two deaths, possibly from cold exposure, raise alarm amid Red Deer shelter situation and plight of homeless community

Dec 12, 2025

Lace-'Em Up!

Red Deer's outdoor rinks returning for another season

Dec 12, 2025

“If they want VLT’ in town, council only needs to pass a resolution on it.”

Legal counsel for the Town of Rocky Mountain House made the recommendation that they should go above and beyond the MGA and hold a non-statutory public hearing to allow input from the public on what to do next.

“I think a lot has changed since 1997 and I think we need to have the open dialogue,” Mayor Tammy Burke said.

Comments were made during the February 18 Town Council meeting that they have heard passionate stances from both sides of the matter.

Council passed a motion to allow a public hearing to collect resident’s opinions on whether or not to officially bring VLTs into town. That hearing will take place at the March 10 council meeting which will be held at the Christenson Sports and Wellness Centre to allow room for more residents to attend.