Hanna council approved a $5,000 contribution to the Community Compass project at its Oct. 13 regular meeting, supporting a regional effort to identify suitable locations for future industrial and economic development.

The contribution will be split equally over two years, with $2,500 payable in 2026 and $2,500 in 2027. 

Spearheaded by the Harvest Sky Economic Development Corporation and Special Areas, the project will combine infrastructure mapping, technical analysis and community consultation to determine what types of development the region can support and where they would fit best.

During discussion, council members emphasized the importance of regional collaboration.

“I think it's also important to show that we're a part of the region and support the region,” said acting chief administrative officer Kim Neill.

Coun. Brenda Karg said participation also supported the town’s strategic priorities.

“It also fits in with our strategic plan when we talked about how we're going to network and collaborate with other essential partners to promote economic activity in the community,” Karg said.

According to the council report, the project has an estimated budget of $95,000, including a $45,000 provincial grant through the Alberta Community Partnership program. Special Areas Board is the managing partner.

The work will examine infrastructure such as electrical systems, natural gas pipelines, roads, rail, telecommunications and water and wastewater services. Community input will help identify preferred development types, potential land-use conflicts and local priorities.

The findings are expected to produce development suitability maps, opportunity assessments and materials to help attract investment.

Administration said Hanna’s involvement would give Harvest Sky better information to direct investors and developers toward opportunities suited to the town and surrounding region. The report also identified interest and participation from Special Areas, Youngstown, Consort and Oyen.

Harvest Sky manager Thomas Trout and Special Areas Economic Development representative Wanda Diakow introduced the project to council at its Sept. 8 meeting.

The town’s 2026 operating budget already contains $2,500 in unspent funding for potential marketing projects or opportunities within the business and communication department. The remaining $2,500 will need to be included in the 2027 budget.

Council carried a motion approving the town’s participation and financial commitment.