Rockyford develops new housing for population increase

By Fernando Moreno-Prado Times Contributors

The over-century old village of Rockyford has benefitted from a population growth of 10 per cent – despite dealing with the hurdles of infrastructure deficit and insufficient provincial funding. 

Mayor Darcy Burke feels that there is an increasing gap between the funding available to the cost of upgrading aging infrastructure and the funding required to make those necessary upgrades. Nevertheless, population growth has benefitted the village.

Burke explains that growth has resulted in benefits to businesses, non-profits groups, and the community in general. In order to sustain these benefits, Burke stresses the necessity for housing developments. 

“To carry that type of population growth forward, we need to have available space for folks to build new homes on,” he said.

The south side of Prairie Ridge Park is to be developed for such purposes. The village council negotiated a deal with the Golden Hills School Division to acquire the property. The developments began this past summer.

As an elected official, Burke says that the council strives to find a balance for better infrastructure while still providing affordable small-town living “for the folks that call it home.” 

Burke explains that the challenges to sustain the community and its expansion are overcome by considering thoughts of local residents and a “really positive and upfront discussion” by the village council. This is done through goal setting and reinvestment of taxpayer money in the infrastructure of the community.

“We balance out the views and budgets and make sure we do the best possible to serve our community,” he said.

Rockyford has a variety of upcoming events to look forward to in the autumn season as an agriculture-based community.

“We see lots of functions happening in our community centre,” said Burke. Functions include Maritime Madness hosted by the Lions Club that includes a steak and lobster meal with the purchase of a ticket. There will be a Halloween party in the hall with a haunted house and a variety of winter activities.