
Future focused.
Let's move Cochrane forward.
I’m Laura McDonald — a proud Cochrane resident for 13 years, a mother of two, and a committed community builder. As a local charity leader and rural economic development professional, I’ve spent my career bringing people together, developing programs that unite community, supporting local business, and creating opportunities for all. I believe in a Cochrane where your voice matters, where growth is thoughtful, the opportunities reflect our diversity, and our community stays connected. Together, let's focus on our future.
Investing in spaces and programs that bring people together.
Cochrane’s sense of community is one of our greatest strengths, and it deserves to be nurtured.
Our trails, transportation systems, parks, library, and recreation options are more than just services - they are the backbone of a healthy, vibrant, and connected town.
By supporti
Investing in spaces and programs that bring people together.
Cochrane’s sense of community is one of our greatest strengths, and it deserves to be nurtured.
Our trails, transportation systems, parks, library, and recreation options are more than just services - they are the backbone of a healthy, vibrant, and connected town.
By supporting opportunities for connection, from recreation and cultural programs to community events and volunteerism, we build belonging, strengthen relationships, and keep Cochrane the kind of place we’re proud to call home.
Encouraging diverse and innovative housing options for all stages of life.
Housing is a critical, complex, and evolving issue; one size does not fit all, and its time our housing reflect the diverse needs of Cochranites.
Whether you’re a young family, a senior, or someone just starting out, diverse housing options are essential for a thrivi
Encouraging diverse and innovative housing options for all stages of life.
Housing is a critical, complex, and evolving issue; one size does not fit all, and its time our housing reflect the diverse needs of Cochranites.
Whether you’re a young family, a senior, or someone just starting out, diverse housing options are essential for a thriving community. By working with partners, planning thoughtfully, and listening to our community members, we can find housing solutions that reflect the needs of our residents.
Building a thriving local economy.
Local businesses are at the heart of our community; our businesses provide jobs, services, and the character that makes Cochrane special. Supporting them means more than just shopping local. It means creating a business-friendly environment that reduces barriers, encourages entrepreneurship, and fosters
Building a thriving local economy.
Local businesses are at the heart of our community; our businesses provide jobs, services, and the character that makes Cochrane special. Supporting them means more than just shopping local. It means creating a business-friendly environment that reduces barriers, encourages entrepreneurship, and fosters local economic opportunities.
By helping local businesses grow and thrive, we strengthen the entire community.
Shaping responsible and sustainable growth.
None of us get to be the last person to move to Cochrane, but we can develop thoughtfully, and prioritize the needs of our community.
Growth is inevitable, but how we grow matters. Cochrane must plan responsibly, ensuring that infrastructure, services, and amenities keep pace with development wh
Shaping responsible and sustainable growth.
None of us get to be the last person to move to Cochrane, but we can develop thoughtfully, and prioritize the needs of our community.
Growth is inevitable, but how we grow matters. Cochrane must plan responsibly, ensuring that infrastructure, services, and amenities keep pace with development while protecting our natural beauty and small-town feel. By making thoughtful, forward-looking decisions, we can maintain the charm that makes Cochrane unique, while preparing for a sustainable, well-served future.
Promoting inclusion, accessibility, and opportunity.
A resilient community draws on the strengths of its residents, leveraging diverse perspectives, and fostering opportunities where we can all thrive.
Cochrane is at its best when everyone feels a sense of belonging. That means creating opportunities for residents of all backgrounds, i
Promoting inclusion, accessibility, and opportunity.
A resilient community draws on the strengths of its residents, leveraging diverse perspectives, and fostering opportunities where we can all thrive.
Cochrane is at its best when everyone feels a sense of belonging. That means creating opportunities for residents of all backgrounds, incomes, and abilities to thrive — whether through accessible infrastructure, inclusive programs, or strong partnerships with community organizations. By embracing diversity and listening to every voice, we can build a Cochrane where each person feels valued and connected.
Building alignment, teamwork, and focusing on our future.
Cochrane’s challenges and opportunities are best met when we work as a team — council, administration, community partners, and residents pulling in the same direction. Our community is growing and changing, and the best way to guide that change is by moving forward together, not by
Building alignment, teamwork, and focusing on our future.
Cochrane’s challenges and opportunities are best met when we work as a team — council, administration, community partners, and residents pulling in the same direction. Our community is growing and changing, and the best way to guide that change is by moving forward together, not by tearing each other down.
When we focus on shared priorities and seek common ground, we can make decisions that are clear, balanced, and future-focused. By leading with respect, collaboration, and a commitment to what truly matters, we can ensure Cochrane’s future reflects the values of the community we all call home.
I work as the Team Lead for CFCWest, a regional non-profit dedicated to rural economic development. We support rural entrepreneurs and small business, helping to create a thriving and diverse economy. I am proud to work with the team at CFCWest, providing resources for local businesses, and contributing to our local entrepreneurial ecosystem.
As the former Executive Director of Helping Hands, I understand Cochrane's social environment. Cochrane's volunteer community is unlike any other, and working alongside the incredible Helping Hands staff and volunteers showed me the many layers of our community, the hidden adversity and the incredible generosity that makes our town special.
Over my 13 years in Cochrane I am proud to have volunteered for, championed, and led a number of community projects:
Cochrane Society for Housing Options - Current Board Secretary
Sport4Life Cochrane - Former Board Secretary
Inclusion Cochrane - Founding Member
Friends of Fireside School Society - Founding Chairperson
Fireside School Playground for All Kids - Project Chair
Outside of work and community projects, you can find me with my husband, our two daughters, our dogs Sunny and S'more, and our friends. I love dog walks, camping, swimming in any lake (the colder the better), playing piano, watching live music, meeting new people, and jumping into new experiences.
There's a few ways you can get involved, and I'd be thrilled to have your help!
With respect and gratitude, I acknowledge that I live and raise my family in Treaty 7 territory, the traditional lands of Iyarhe Nakoda peoples of the Chiniki, Bearspaw and Goodstoney First Nations. Treaty 7 is also home to the Tsuut’ina, Niitsitapi peoples of Siksika, Piikani and Kainai First Nations, as well as the homelands of the Métis residing within the Rocky View Métis District of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government within the Métis Nation of Alberta.
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