AGM 2026
Keep in touch with the work of the Coaldale Chamber
Become a Leader in your Business Community
- Become a leader in your business community by considering a position as a board member.
- Your involvement will help to build, grow, and promote business, as well as the greater community, in a rewarding way.
- The Coaldale Chamber does this through advocacy, good communication with local and provincial leaders, and by hosting events.
- If you are interested in becoming involved with the Coaldale Chamber at the general board level, please reach out!
Wednesday, March 4, 2026
Noon at the Coaldale Inn
The Coaldale Chamber of Commerce will host its annual AGM on Wednesday, March 4, 2025, at the Coaldale Inn.
Lunch cost $15 at the door
Payment can be made via cash, invoice, e-transfer or credit card.
Nominations for Board positions will also be accepted at the AGM.
Agenda
Chamber Committees
Click on the icons for terms of reference
Membership
Committee
Overseeing Chamber membership and initiate recruitment strategies
Local Advocacy
Committee
Communicates with Town council and administration
Political Advocacy
Committee
Communicates with government and Chamber of Commerce on a national and provincial level
Community
Committee
Communicates with local residents and other non chamber members
Events
Committee
Supervises events such as the Awards and Appreciation Banquet
Communications
Committee
Supervises Coaldale Chamber Communication
Farmers' Market
Committee
Planning and supporting a local market for vendors and the community
Testimonials
A Strong and Supportive Chamber for Coaldale's Business Community
Robert Woolf - President
Why Serving on the Coaldale Chamber Board Matters!
Coaldale has been a fantastic place to live and start a business. As my business grew, I needed a good healthcare plan, which led me to the Coaldale Chamber of Commerce. After joining and attending an AGM, I was inspired by the board’s vision and decided to get involved. I volunteered to serve on the board and took on the role of Activities Chairperson.
Serving on the board has strengthened my leadership skills, expanded my network, and allowed me to advocate for local businesses. It’s given me the opportunity to contribute to economic growth, support fellow entrepreneurs, and help shape the future of our community.
Most importantly, the Chamber is about people. Working alongside passionate business owners and community leaders has made this experience truly meaningful. If you’re considering getting involved, I encourage you to take that step—your voice and efforts are needed and can make a real difference in Coaldale.
Sincerely your President
Robert Woolf, Executive Chair
Bobby Gathercole - First Vice President
As a younger person in business, being a board member of the Coaldale Chamber of Commerce has been incredibly valuable. It’s given me the opportunity to make meaningful connections with other local leaders, stay informed about what’s happening in our community, and learn from experienced professionals. Being involved at this level has helped me grow both personally and professionally while playing an active role in shaping the future of Coaldale.
Bobby Gathercole
First Vice President, Local Advocacy Chair
Jack Van Rijn - Second Vice President
A Strong and Supportive Chamber for Coaldale’s Business Community.
For 39 years, I have been a proud business member of the Coaldale Chamber of Commerce, and today, I am honoured to serve as the 2nd Vice President. As both a business owner and the Mayor of Coaldale, I’ve seen firsthand the vital role the Chamber plays in fostering economic growth, advocating for local businesses, and strengthening our community.
The Coaldale Chamber is more than just a network, it’s a dedicated group of business leaders working together to create opportunities and support one another. From providing valuable business resources, such as group benefits and exclusive member programs, to hosting events that connect and empower entrepreneurs, the Chamber is always looking for ways to enhance the local business landscape.
One of the Chamber’s greatest strengths is its strong working relationship with the Town of Coaldale. Through ongoing collaboration, we work together to support business development, attract new investment, and ensure that local businesses have the tools and resources they need to succeed. This partnership plays a key role in driving economic prosperity and creating a vibrant, business-friendly community.
Serving on the board has provided me with valuable opportunities to contribute to Coaldale’s economic development and collaborate with fellow business owners who are just as passionate about our town’s future. The Chamber’s commitment to advocacy, education, and business success ensures that our local entrepreneurs have a strong voice.
I encourage every business owner in Coaldale to get involved. Whether you’re looking for support, connections, or ways to make a meaningful impact, the Coaldale Chamber of Commerce is here for you. Together, we can continue to build a thriving business community.
Jack Van Rijn
Second Vice President, Communications Chair
Darcy Turner - Treasurer
What can I say about being involved with a local chamber – lots. When I started with the Coaldale Chamber, I knew chambers where in most towns. I had no clue what they did. Since then, I have learned about all levels of chamber. Who knew that there was the local chamber, a provincial chamber, a national chamber and then the B7 which is the global chamber. I sure didn’t.
The local chamber is so integral to our business and our community. Through events we help with and hold it makes Coaldale a stronger place to live, work, and play. I found that the local chamber helped me learn a lot about our community and has made me more passionate about the community I live in.
On the provincial level, I attended the Alberta Chamber of Commerce AGM. Over the two days I learned so much about how our local chambers can have a voice on Municipal, Provincial, and Federal policies. I took what I learned and was recently able to escalate some business concerns to our provincial chamber regarding a bill currently in parliament. Before being on the chamber, I would have never thought to refer to my local chamber representatives for something involving federal legislation. It is empowering to know that we can impact change at all levels.
I truly appreciate the skills I have gained by participating in the Coaldale Chamber of Commerce. I recommend anyone who wants to be involved volunteer! It doesn’t have to be at the board level; there are different directors who would love to have some volunteers to help with various events. You will come away empowered and see the difference you as an individual can make in your community.
Darcy Turner
Treasurer, Political Advocacy Chair
Devin Phalen - Secretary
My wife and I moved to Coaldale in 2016 and have been so impressed with this vibrant and welcoming community. It’s clear that the citizens here take great pride in making it such a safe and positive place to live.
Knowing that these wonderful aspects of our town are the result of dedicated effort, and considering how much my family has benefited from the hard work of others, I felt it was a good time for me to offer my service.
I am hopeful that I can contribute meaningfully and build upon the excellent work the Chamber has done to foster economic development, which I believe is essential for enhancing the standard of living for everyone in our community.
Devin Phalen
Secretary, Community Chair
Coaldale Chamber of Commerce
Year in Review 2025
Coaldale Chamber of Commerce
2025 Annual General Meeting Report
Year in Review
1. Leadership Transition and Growth
The Coaldale Chamber of Commerce experienced a year of steady leadership with thoughtful transitions that strengthened governance and organizational capacity. In March 2025, the Chamber welcomed two new Directors — Yumara Coteron of Green Acres Foundation (Sunny South) and Devin Phalen, Manager at ATB Coaldale — enhancing the Board’s professional expertise and community representation.
In September, Director Darcy Turner resigned from the Board following a professional relocation to Taber. Board roles were reassigned to maintain operational continuity, with Devin Phalen assuming the role of Treasurer and Yumara Coteron taking on the responsibilities of Corporate Secretary.
Strategic priorities were advanced through a planning session with the Alberta Chambers of Commerce (ACC) on February 28, 2025. Board representation also extended provincially, with participation in the Alberta Chambers of Commerce AGM in Medicine Hat, where discussions focused on advocacy priorities, including tariffs and economic policy issues affecting Canadian businesses.
The Chamber also contributed to national recognition initiatives by submitting its organizational story to the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in celebration of its 100th anniversary.
2. Membership and Fiscal Health
The Chamber concluded 2025 in a stable financial position, successfully meeting its annual budget expectations. Membership levels remained consistent at approximately 120 members, reflecting sustained engagement and confidence in the Chamber’s work.
New members welcomed during the year included:
- Shift Real Estate Management Ltd.
- Breathe Easy Heating and AC
- Child’s Pace Early Learning Centre
- Hire Standard Inc.
- NewCold Storage
- Summit Professional Services
- S&G Accounting and Bookkeeping
- Performance Repair Automotive
- Thrive Collective
- Citizen on Patrol
- Allied Marketing Group
- DN Mortgages – Mortgage Architects
Business outreach remained a priority, with direct visits conducted to better understand member needs and emerging challenges. The Chamber also continued collaborative engagement with neighboring Chambers in Vauxhall, Picture Butte, Taber, Fort Mcloed , Raymond, and Taber meeting regularly to exchange ideas and strengthen regional partnerships.
3. Committees in Action
3.1 Local Advocacy
The Chamber continued to represent local business interests through active engagement with community and government stakeholders. Advocacy efforts included communication with elected officials regarding the Canada Post strike and the facilitation of a business survey examining the potential impact of the AUPE labor dispute within the Town of Coaldale.
In advance of the Municipal Election, the Chamber hosted a Candidates Forum on September 26, 2025, at the Civic Square Atrium, providing residents with an opportunity to engage directly with candidates prior to Voting Day on October 20. The event was well attended, with an estimated 200 community members participating and contributing to meaningful civic dialogue and informed decision-making within the community.
3.2 Political Advocacy
The Chamber played a key role in fostering civic engagement during both the Federal and Municipal Election cycles by hosting well-attended All-Candidates Forums, each moderated by Duncan Lloyd and Wayne Street, with strong public turnout and engagement.
During the Federal Election year, the Chamber hosted an All-Candidates Forum on April 14, 2025, featuring candidates Marc Slingerland (CHP), Rachael Thomas (CPC), Chris Spearman (LPC), Amber Murray (GPC), Nathan Svoboda (NDP), and Clara Piedalue (PPC).
The Chamber also supported civic engagement during the 2025 Municipal Election by hosting a local All-Candidates Forum on September 26, 2025.
Both events gave residents and businesses the opportunity to hear directly from candidates, ask thoughtful questions, and participate in meaningful community dialogue. The strong turnout and engagement helped foster informed participation and reflected the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to supporting effective leadership and a connected, well-informed business community.
3.3 Event Excellence
The Annual Awards & Appreciation Banquet, held February 8, 2025, welcomed approximately 200 attendees and celebrated outstanding contributions to the community.
The Chamber also hosted its inaugural Job Fair on March 6, 2025, featuring 28 exhibitors and attracting approximately 200 attendees, including job seekers and students. The event received strong positive feedback, with several exhibitors reporting high levels of engagement and recruitment success. Due to its success, the Job Fair will become an annual initiative, with the next event scheduled for April 16 at the Shift Recreation Centre in collaboration with Coaldale Prairie Winds Secondary School (CPWSS).
Additional event-related contributions included sponsorship of the upcoming 3A Basketball Provincials at CPWSS.
3.4 Membership Networking
Business-to-Business (B2B) events provided ongoing opportunities for member engagement and professional development. Sessions included presentations from Big Brothers Big Sisters, Careers NextGen, Canadian Federation of Independent Business, the Lethbridge Construction Association, and the Town of Coaldale.
Members also participated in industry tours at McCain Foods and NewCold, as well as a year-end Christmas Mixer that strengthened connections within the local business community.
3.5 Engaging Community Initiatives
The Chamber remained actively involved in community events including Winterfest, Summer Fest, the Fall Community Meet-Up, and a Halloween Haunted House. Community support also extended to the Ride of Dad concert and the Coaldale Citizen on Patrol.
A significant initiative was the launch of the Coaldale Farmers’ Market. On May 7, 2025, the Chamber agreed to serve as the official sponsor, working collaboratively with the Town of Coaldale, the Agricultural Society, and local vendors. The Chamber provided $3,500 in seed funding and administrative support to help establish the market, successfully addressing early logistical challenges such as securing event insurance.
3.6 Amplifying Voice and Visibility Through Communication
The Chamber strengthened communication efforts to enhance member visibility and community engagement. A notable initiative was the Night of Lights Electronic Sign project, allowing businesses to promote their services through a mobile digital display during the community parade. The initiative was well received and provided additional promotional opportunities for local businesses.
Regular communication with members, stakeholders, and regional partners, through the Chamber’s website, social media channels, and direct outreach, ensured consistent engagement and strengthened the Chamber’s voice within the broader business community.
4. Conclusion
The Coaldale Chamber of Commerce’s activities throughout 2025 demonstrated a strong commitment to advocacy, leadership, and community engagement. Through strategic planning, successful events, and collaborative initiatives, the Chamber continued to support local businesses while fostering a vibrant and connected community. The organization looks forward to building on this momentum in the coming year.