Despite the downturn in the economy, Lacombe Mayor Steve Christie says 2016 was a good year for development permits, exceeding 2015's record numbers by 40 per cent.

The city and commercial businesses took advantage of the lower construction costs, with the addition of a number of new buildings and renovations to existing ones.

Another success for 2016 according to Christie was the increase of affordable housing thanks to grants from the early 2000's and the Affordable Housing Steering Committee formed last year "throughout 2016 they had some great projects, they had 2 projects with Habitat for Humanity, they partnered with Bethany Group and a private developer for a down payment assistance program for 14 units here in Lacombe, the Habitat projects are for 8 families".

In terms of challenges, Christie says balancing the budget was a big one, but despite the slowdown in the economy he believes it's important to continue to invest in the community which he feels is something Council has done well "an economy is consumer confidence so I think what we have to do as Council is instil confidence in our product which is the City of Lacombe.  So the more we can show to outside investors that we have confidence in Lacombe, that we have confidence that we can secure business, that we can grow, manage our growth, the better it will be".

Looking ahead to 2017, Christie adds the city will continue talks with Lacombe County to extend services to the west area and residents will see the completion of the downtown project with work being done from 53rd street to Highway 2A.

Christie also plans on seeking re-election in next year's municipal election.