There are a lot of familiar faces in key positions in Danielle Smith's new cabinet, and that could be good news for Cochrane.

Mayor Jeff Genung was watching as the events unfolded this morning.

"It's good to see some familiar faces and we're excited about building strong relationships with the new ministers," says Mayor Genung.

The town continues to foster relationships with ministers to make sure they are aware of Cochrane's needs.

"The first person I looked at was to see if Peter Guthrie's name was on the cabinet and. I was very happy to see that he was awarded a portfolio again. it will be a little different dealing with him under the infrastructure portfolio, but good for him. I'm happy for our community."

Even one new face on the cabinet isn't a stranger to Cochrane and has played major roles in previous governments.

Genung is looking forward to once again dealing with Ric McIver, who returns to cabinet as Municipal Affairs minister. 

Besides being a season provincial politician, McIver is a former Calgary city councillor. Genung says he gets the municipal affairs portfolio and understands the needs of communities.

"He has proven that before and he's a good listener. It doesn't hurt that he already knows my name, knows who we are as a community, and he's been briefed on our issues repeatedly over the years, So, this won't be from starting from scratch. We'll be able to hit the ground running."

Jason Nixon is the new minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services, a position previously held by his brother, Jeremy. Genung says the town won't assume Jason is fully in tune with the need for financial assistance in building a new Big Hill Lodge.

"No, we won't make any assumptions, but I do know Jason from when he was Environment minister right at the beginning of the last term for the UCP. So he's familiar with Cochrane. His parents also live in Cochrane, and any little bit helps."

McIver also has family in Cochrane.

Genung says the town won't be knocking on the ministers' doors right away.

"Trying to get in front of them right out of the gate I think is a bit of a mistake. So we'll give them a few weeks to get their feet under them and then start to find the best strategy."