It's no secret that Okotoks isn't the only area in the MD of Foothills that's seeing growth.

Last week the City of Chestermere announced its purchase of 110 acres of land for commercial land use. In August the Town of Okotoks secured a 40 acre parcel of land the Town said would accommodate future public facilities that could potentially include education, recreation and/or cultural uses.

Tanya Thorn, Okotoks Town Councillor, says there's a few ways Okotoks can try to differentiate itself from its rapidly growing neighbors.

"I'd like to see some more of those professional type jobs," she says. "I'm a big believer in technology and innovation and I think because Okotoks has done a great job in being a sustainable and environmental leader , environmental innovation I think there's a great opportunity for businesses in that industry to work in Okotoks and potentially be leaders and help us be leaders."

She says the town needs to clarify it's identity to continue to prosper.

"What exactly is it that we're targeting and why do those organizations appeal. We do have some land that's industrial ready and commercial base ready but i think we need to get really clear as an organization on what is it that we want to attract to diversify that non-res base."

Thorn says she'd like to see the local workforce have a better opportunity at professional jobs in the community instead of going into Calgary.