By Josh Hall | @Vancan19

obligations not met, says city

‘Shocked’ operator out at Red Deer’s Heritage Ranch; programs and bookings cancelled

May 26, 2025 | 5:56 PM

The City of Red Deer is seeking a new operator for indoor facilities and operations at Heritage Ranch.

The city says this is occurring because the current operator has proven unable to meet the obligations of the contract.

In the meantime, the city says programming and services will pause, but public access to trails, green spaces, and parks will remain open. Portable washrooms will also be provided on-site, in lieu of the ones in the restaurant. The washroom down near Mitchell Pond are city-run and will remain accessible.

The relationship between city and operator will officially end June 9, though cancellations impact any bookings for events happening after May 26.

Also impacted by the parting of ways is Westlake Grill, which will close until a new operator can be found.

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“Heritage Ranch has long been a cherished part of the community, offering unique recreational and event experiences. This transition marks a significant shift, but also an opportunity to secure a new operator that can sustain and enhance the site’s long-term potential. Heritage Ranch is a special place in Red Deer, and we’re committed to protecting its future,” said Tara Lodewyk, City Manager.

“While this temporary closure is necessary, we are acting quickly to find an operator that aligns with the community’s values and the vision we all share for this space.”

Current indoor programming to be cancelled includes summer camps, private event bookings, and ranch services.

Significant third-party bookings, such as the Spartan Race, will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis for feasibility, the city says.

An immediate request for proposal has gone out to identify a new operator, but one is not expected to be in place within the next 90 days.

“We know this facility matters deeply to residents and visitors,” added Lodewyk. “This transition is about strengthening the future of Heritage Ranch so that it can continue to serve the community in meaningful and lasting ways.”

The city notes too that if anyone is seeking refunds, they will have to go through the operator.

According to LinkedIn, the current operator of Heritage Ranch is Joel Martens. rdnewsNOW reached out to him for comment, and he responded later Monday evening.

“This issue is currently in legal. We can tell you that we are 15 years in good standing with our duties here at the ranch and we are shocked at the City’s actions. Although we understand that there are financial challenges that the City is facing, 15 years of loyalty to community improvement and entrepreneurial endeavours that have made significant financial contributions, marketing contributions, and positive reputational contributions apparently were not taken into consideration in this decision,” Martens tells rdnewsNOW.

“We will be challenging the decision to terminate the contract. Clearly not a well-thought-out decision on the part of the City of Red Deer. It would be a shame to lose these amazing horses at the ranch.”

Martens further encouraged Red Deerians to reach out to city council if they want to share their thoughts.

He also pointed to a reduction of $342,000 in provision of public facilities and amenities, as approved by council during the most recent budget deliberations.

rdnewsNOW also asked the city to clarify which obligations were not being met, and they have not provided a response.

For updates and more information, visit www.reddeer.ca/HeritageRanch.