Reg Rygus

Edmonton Neighbourhoods United (ENU) is inviting residents to share their perspectives on infill redevelopment in established neighbourhoods.

The survey takes approximately 3-5 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous, and there are no “right” answers — we are interested in hearing from residents with diverse experiences and opinions.

As conversations continue at City Council about zoning, density, and redevelopment standards, it is important that community experiences and viewpoints are clearly understood and accurately represented. This short survey is intended to gather a range of perspectives on how infill is working today and what, if anything, could be improved.

Your input will help inform ENU’s advocacy and contribute to more constructive, evidence-based discussions about neighbourhood redevelopment.

👉https://forms.gle/UrzJoMiXw59jmVK79

Thank you for taking the time to share your perspective.

Sincerely,

Edmonton Neighbourhoods United

www.edmontonneighbourhoodsunited.ca

ON THE AGENDA

Stephanie Swensrude

This week, councillors are set to discuss transit-oriented development in Century Park, an audit of the 2025 municipal election, and community engagement during the neighbourhood renewal process.

There is a utility committee meeting on Feb. 2, a public hearing on Feb. 3, and an audit committee meeting on Feb. 4.

Here are some key items on the agenda:

• K&H Land Development has applied to rezone land adjacent to the Century Park LRT Station and Transit Centre to facilitate the development of about eight hectares of vacant land, some of which is now used for park-and-ride, into a transit-oriented development. The original plan for the development designated 27 Avenue as a pedestrian-oriented main street. The proposed rezoning would result in a vehicle-oriented design instead, to support the businesses that will eventually open along 27 Avenue, the developer said. If council approves the rezoning, the developer could build mixed-use buildings up to 22 storeys tall.
• The Office of the City Auditor released a report about the 2025 municipal election, highlighting issues with the computer system and paperwork that may have contributed to long lines. The report said that staff found it difficult to operate the technology and recommended better training in future elections.
• An audit recommends that city staff be clearer about how feedback is used during neighbourhood renewal to prevent confusion and frustration around which designs residents can influence. Administration has four levels of engagement, ranging from the advise level (where staff consider public feedback in designs) to the decide level (where residents make decisions directly). The Office of the City Auditor said it observed interactions where residents were asked to provide feedback, but it wasn’t clear how designers would use that feedback. Administration said it will be more clear when engaging residents.
• EPCOR’s 2026 operating plan involves streamlining lot grading and new service applications for housing developers. The plan, which will be reviewed by utility committee, said water and sewer connections grew nearly 50% last year, mainly due to increased infill development. The improvements are expected to provide greater certainty to developers. Other plans for 2026 include spending $288 million to support the performance and resiliency of its assets, planning for flood mitigation at its Gold Bar Wastewater Treatment Plant, and replacing prioritized distribution mains.

Here are updates on some items we told you about last week:

• Administration told council property taxes could grow by nearly 44% in the next decade. Staff said the capital budget will be tight in the next 10 years and recommended that council focus on renewing, maintaining, and repairing assets instead of funding new projects. Beginning in 2029, administration will begin collecting money for a dedicated renewal fund through property taxes, which is expected to help. Coun. Ashley Salvador asked administration to provide a report about increasing that tax levy to narrow the gap further. Salvador also requested a report outlining how many buses are needed to maintain current transit service levels to 2030, as well as the service impacts of not meeting minimum requirements. Meanwhile, Mayor Andrew Knack said he thinks the budget process will be the most thorough he’s experienced since he was elected to council more than a decade ago.
• Council voted 10-3 to provide a $6.5-million grant to the Winspear Centre to help it solve a revenue crunch related to the new downtown district energy hub. Councillors Karen Principe, Erin Rutherford, and Jo-Anne Wright voted against providing the grant.
• Council postponed its discussion on whether it should accelerate the timeline for widening two arterial roads in The Meadows from two lanes to four lanes. The discussion is scheduled to take place on Feb. 3.
• The councillors talked at length about the authorization of neighbourhood structure plans, and the new terms of reference that have changed at what point in the planning process that council hears about certain growth metrics. Concerns were raised about future suburban neighbourhoods contributing to the city’s large asset inventory. Coun. Anne Stevenson moved to authorize the creation of a neighbourhood structure plan for Kettle Lakes, but with the conditions that a draft be presented to urban planning committee before the final plan is presented to council at a public hearing, and that the plan include information on how city expenditures will not exceed city revenues. She was unsuccessful in requiring these conditions; council voted 7-6 to remove them from the motion, and the authorization then passed 9-4.

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• On Monday, at 9:30 am, the Utility Committee will meet. On the agenda is the EPCOR Water Services’ 2026 Operating Plan. The Plan emphasizes three focus areas: safe, reliable utility services; customer experience and value for money; and shareholder value. Capital investments total $464 million in 2026, prioritizing reliability and lifecycle replacement, climate adaptation projects (including dry ponds and flood barriers), water distribution and transmission main renewal, and sanitary sewer rehabilitation. The Plan notes that Advanced Metering Infrastructure is nearly fully deployed, supporting accurate billing and leak detection. The utility is preparing its first consolidated Performance-Based Regulation rate application for 2028-2031, integrating stakeholder input on affordability, reliability, and cost-of-service methodology.
• On Wednesday, at 9:30 am, the Audit Committee will meet. The Office of the City Auditor reviewed Edmonton’s Neighbourhood Renewal Program, which rebuilds roads, sidewalks, street lights, and other infrastructure in existing neighbourhoods, typically over a four- to six-year period. The audit found that the Building Great Neighbourhoods Branch generally follows the City’s Project Development and Delivery Model (PDDM) for project management, ensuring proper planning, delivery, and oversight of renewal projects. However, improvements are needed in three areas: clearer documentation for approving field design changes, providing residents with more understandable information about how their feedback is used, and creating formal guidance on which engagement tactics to use at each phase of a project. The audit recommends implementing these measures to ensure consistent project documentation, reduce resident confusion, and improve the effectiveness of engagement.
• Edmonton residents could be in for a decade of sticker shock on their tax bills. City officials told Council this week that, based on projects already approved or underway, property taxes could climb roughly 44% by 2036, meaning a homeowner paying $2,000 today could be paying close to $3,000 in ten years. Driving the pressure is the city’s rapid growth, especially the need for more fire stations, staff, and service capacity, plus mounting costs to maintain roads, bridges, and transit. Administration says Edmonton has already found $1.9 billion in efficiency savings since 2015, but the infrastructure renewal gap is still widening - now projected at $2.8 billion from 2027-2030. The City faces $39.8 billion in total renewal needs, with $17.6 billion required by 2036 to avoid critical failures. Council heard a menu of uncomfortable options: cut or reduce services, raise user fees, slow new growth projects, sell assets, or borrow more.
• A recent report highlights a sharp contrast in Edmonton’s retail market, with suburban areas thriving while Downtown struggles. Suburban retail spaces, particularly in the west end, have low vacancies and strong demand, whereas Downtown retail faces nearly 15% vacancy, driving rents down despite available space. This shift has been attributed to the rise of remote work, which accelerated during the pandemic, leading to fewer office workers and reduced foot traffic downtown. Edmonton City Centre mall’s receivership added thousands of vacant square feet, presenting opportunities that require significant investment to develop. Retail experts emphasize that Downtown businesses must offer unique experiences to compete with e-commerce and attract customers. Some see potential in converting office spaces to residential, which could eventually bring more people and retail activity downtown. 
• The Coronation Park Sports and Recreation Centre in Edmonton officially opened after more than 15 years of planning, offering a state-of-the-art space designed for all ages and athletic abilities. Its standout feature is a 250-metre Category A velodrome, the only one of its kind in Western Canada and one of three in the country, making Edmonton a key destination for international cycling and triathlon athletes. The $153-million facility also includes a bouldering wall, urban court, fitness centre, and is connected to the Peter Hemingway Aquatic Centre, while serving as North America’s only indoor triathlon training centre. Already, national teams from Australia, Germany, and the US are booked to train there ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The City sees the centre as an opportunity for economic development, tourism, and international sporting events. While Edmonton plans smaller recreation projects in partnership with others, budget constraints make another large-scale facility unlikely in the next four years. The Coronation Park centre demonstrates the potential for community benefit and economic impact through strategic investments.

• This is our 350th edition of Alberta Minute, marking 350 weeks of tracking what's happening in the Legislature and in provincial politics! This newsletter was created to make local issues accessible, cutting through lengthy reports, jargon, and marathon meetings so more residents can stay informed and hold leaders accountable. Funded entirely by readers, the Alberta Institute relies on donations to continue its work, so if you appreciate our work to improve accountability and ensure citizens stay informed, please consider making a donation to keep this newsletter and our other important work going!
• British Columbia’s Premier criticized Alberta’s separatist movement after reports surfaced that its organizers had met with senior US officials and sought financial backing for independence. He argued that while debate and referendums are part of a democratic society, seeking help from a foreign government to break up Canada crosses a serious line. Several other provincial leaders echoed that concern, warning that behind-the-scenes talks with US officials undermine national unity and Canadian sovereignty. Premier Danielle Smith pushed back, saying a significant share of residents feel alienated and frustrated with Confederation and should not be dismissed, even as she maintains support for a united Canada. Separatist organizers defended their outreach as lawful advocacy and said they are exploring international reactions, not pursuing annexation by the United States. They also clarified that they were simply investigating whether lines of credit would be available to an independent Alberta if a referendum succeeded, not seeking funding for the campaign itself.
• Alberta is introducing tougher regulations and penalties to crack down on predatory towing practices. New rules under the Consumer Protection Act will require tow operators to clearly communicate all costs, obtain consent before towing, provide access to vehicles and belongings, and use the most direct route. Violations could result in fines of $100,000 to $300,000 or up to two years in jail. The Province has already taken steps like creating a 200-metre exclusion zone around accident scenes and updating municipal bylaws, but complaints persist. Minister Dale Nally said the measures aim to protect vulnerable Albertans from high-pressure tactics and exorbitant fees, while industry experts warn legitimate operators are unfairly impacted. Additional requirements include itemized invoices, notifications if a vehicle is moved, and maintaining records of consent and services. The Alberta Motor Association is promoting awareness through its “Know Before the Tow” campaign to help motorists understand their rights.
• Alberta is evaluating potential routes for a new bitumen pipeline to the Pacific Coast, with Premier Danielle Smith highlighting three options, including the Port of Prince Rupert and Roberts Bank near Vancouver. Smith’s plan would allow up to one million barrels per day, aiming to eventually double provincial oil production, and a formal proposal is expected to be submitted to the federal Major Projects Office by July under a November MOU with Ottawa. Kitimat is no longer considered viable due to technical and environmental concerns. BC Premier David Eby has opposed northern routes because of the federal oil tanker ban, favouring expansion of the existing Trans Mountain pipeline, but has indicated willingness to discuss a southern alternative. Both Roberts Bank and Prince Rupert have advantages: Roberts Bank has existing infrastructure and emergency response capabilities, while Prince Rupert offers a shorter route with available land for a new terminal. Indigenous consultation and potential co-ownership are key considerations, and the provincial technical advisory committee is set to narrow down options early this year. Public polling shows strong Canadian support for a new pipeline, provided environmental and Indigenous consultation standards are met.
• ​​Alberta Beef Producers (ABP) is weighing whether to remain with or withdraw from the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) as its current three-year agreement nears expiry on July 31st. ABP Chair Doug Roxburgh explained that the consideration largely stems from financial concerns, including potential budgetary impacts if CCA votes to increase charges on retained marketings, which could cost ABP $400,000 to $600,000 annually. ABP also wants to ensure a fair governance structure within CCA, as Alberta currently holds 24 of the board’s seats but cannot reach majority representation. The organization has engaged delegates and provincial partners in discussions about possible changes, including retaining Alberta’s check-off dollars while maintaining equity among provinces. Roxburgh emphasized that the move would create a buffer to protect ABP financially while allowing time to plan a proper budget, and that government officials have offered support throughout the process. A series of votes will determine ABP’s next steps, but no timeline has been set.

What's on in Edmonton this weekend? Step into Shanghai Nights to celebrate the glamour of Old Shanghai and welcome the Lunar New Year, join The Invisible Practice for VIBRO-PLAYGROUND — a unique fundraising celebration that combines community connection with interactive installations at Latitude 53, attend an album release concert featuring mother-daughter duo Wendy Gregson and Renee Mclachlan, enjoy an evening of vocal jazz with the River City Big Band, and so much more!

SEE ALL UPCOMING EVENTS

Read the latest issue of the McCauley News to get up to date with the latest regarding that area of Edmonton.

ON THE AGENDA

Stephanie Swensrude

• Administration recommends adding another public hearing to council’s calendar on Feb. 12 because of the volume of rezoning applications that have been postponed at past meetings. It also recommends adding an additional day for the urban planning committee meeting on Feb. 10 where councillors are expected to discuss changes to the zoning bylaw that would limit infill development.
• Council is set to meet in private to discuss an investment opportunity.

Lastly, here are some updates on what happened last week at committee meetings:

• Administration told community and public services committee it observed just 10% compliance at the beginning of the snow-clearing parking ban this month. Enforcement officers have given out about 2,600 parking ban tickets so far. Committee did not support amending the traffic bylaw to lower the fine for violating parking bans from $250 to $150.
• Urban planning committee recommended replacing the 1992 Ribbon of Green Master Plan with the new river valley strategy. Administration said the updated strategy balances natural preservation with public use and recreation, aligning with climate resilience. It includes provisions for greater Indigenous oversight, multi-use trails, improved accessibility, and active ecological monitoring. Council is set to vote on the recommendation.
• Executive committee voted unanimously to recommend that city council provide a $6.5-million grant to the Winspear Centre as an alternative to the organization earning parking revenue from the Century Place parkade. Committee recommended taking the grant out of the financial stabilization reserve. Several councillors said the funding source was not ideal, but it was the only option. Council will vote on the proposal at a future meeting.

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• On Tuesday, at 9:30 am, there will be a City Council meeting. On the agenda is a 2027-2036 Capital Investment Outlook. It provides a 10-year forecast of infrastructure needs to help Council make strategic funding decisions. The report emphasizes prioritizing renewal of existing assets - replacing or rehabilitating aging infrastructure - over new growth, due to limited available capital and an increasing number of aging assets. Nearly all unconstrained funding over the next decade will be directed to renewal programs, though $6.8 billion in previously approved transformational growth projects will continue over the next five years.
• Council will also discuss the 2027-2030 budget planning process. Key changes include in-person ward engagement sessions, departmental presentations, and a shift from written Q&A to a live inquiry format to facilitate immediate dialogue between Council and staff. Milestones include financial updates in March, department presentations in March, publication of the Corporate Business Plan in June, fall engagement reports, and proposed budgets released in late October/early November. A Non-Statutory Public Hearing in November will allow Edmontonians to provide direct input, while a Climate Budget will incorporate climate and emissions considerations into decision-making.
• The City is seeking ideas for the adaptive reuse of the historic Rossdale Power Plant, a landmark built in the 1930s that generated a quarter of Alberta’s power until 1970 and was decommissioned in 2008. The City has invited submissions until the end of April to guide how the building can be repurposed while preserving its heritage and aesthetic value. Previous proposals, like the Prairie Sky Gondola, were rejected due to concerns about river valley conservation, skyline impact, and respect for nearby Indigenous burial sites. The City has invested over $15 million in preservation work, including roof replacement and safety upgrades, and is now looking for innovative ways to revitalize the site without compromising its historic integrity. Heritage planners emphasize the importance of maintaining the building’s character, noting that Edmonton has lost many historic structures over the years. 
• Ward Anirniq Councillor Erin Rutherford has accused former election opponent Jesse Watson of harassment after he shared an Instagram story that she says revealed her partner’s vehicle near her home. Rutherford called the post a reckless risk to her family’s safety and privacy, describing it as “rage farming” and part of a broader trend of misinformation on social media. Watson defended the post, saying he received the image from a follower, did not disclose any private information, and shared it to highlight what he saw as irony regarding a City parking ban. Former Councillor Sarah Hamilton and Mayor Andrew Knack expressed support for Rutherford, framing the incident as part of a worrying pattern of intimidation and abuse against public officials. Rutherford emphasized that, during her campaign, she had deliberately avoided responding to Watson’s posts. Watson previously finished second to Rutherford in the 2025 municipal election.
• Edmonton Fire Rescue Services (EFRS) Chief David Lazenby is calling for six new fire stations over the next four years to keep pace with population growth in the west, southwest, and northeast areas outside Anthony Henday Drive. Rapid development in neighbourhoods like Big Lake, Riverview, Wedgwood, Chappelle, Cumberland, and Horse Hills is expected to bring around 120,000 new residents, creating longer response times without additional infrastructure. In 2025, EFRS responded to 91,000 emergency incidents, a 68% increase over five years, including more than 54,000 medical calls and over 10,000 overdose-related incidents. Aging fire apparatus and rising costs of equipment are additional budget pressures for the department. Lazenby highlighted the department’s capacity to handle compounding emergencies, recalling simultaneous large-scale operations last year, including evacuations and a peat fire. Despite growing demand, he emphasized the commitment of Edmonton’s firefighters to respond promptly, prioritizing both public safety and crew mental health. 

• US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent publicly weighed in on Alberta’s separatist movement, claiming Canada has blocked pipeline access to the Pacific. In a television interview, Bessent described Albertans as independent and said there is talk of a possible referendum on leaving Canada, framing Alberta and the US as “natural partners” because of shared energy interests. Ottawa downplayed the remarks, saying Canada will focus on strengthening its own economy and sovereignty rather than reacting to foreign commentary. Alberta’s government responded by stressing that most residents do not want to join the United States and that the Province supports remaining within a united Canada while expanding pipeline access in all directions. Meanwhile, independence organizers said their goal is sovereignty outside both Canada and the US, even as interest in the movement grows online and among some American political circles.
• Alberta has introduced a new family law process aimed at resolving divorces, child support, and parenting disputes more quickly and with less conflict. The Family Focused Protocol, launched by the Court of King’s Bench earlier this month, assigns each family a single judge to manage the case from start to finish and targets having trials scheduled within 18 months if matters are not settled. The system aims to reduce paperwork, limit repeated court applications, and allow multiple interim issues to be addressed together in a single, longer hearing. Supporters say this “conveyor belt” approach keeps cases moving and could lower legal costs while reducing emotional harm to families and children. The protocol also emphasizes early resolution and alternative dispute options to avoid unnecessary courtroom battles. About 30 justices will focus heavily on the new system, though court officials acknowledge there will be an adjustment period as lawyers and judges adapt.
• Farmers across Alberta are pushing back against proposed federal animal traceability rules, warning the changes would place heavy costs and administrative burdens on small producers. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency had planned to require faster and more detailed reporting of livestock movements through an online system, but paused the rollout after widespread industry opposition. Producers say the shortened reporting timelines, mandatory premises IDs, and added technology costs would be difficult to manage, particularly for older farmers or smaller operations. Many worry the rules could drive small farms out of business, weaken rural communities, and raise food prices for consumers. While the federal agency argues the changes would improve disease control and market access, Alberta’s agriculture minister and industry groups say the system must reflect real-world farming conditions. A petition opposing the rules has quickly gained thousands of signatures.
• Alberta has refused to participate in Ottawa’s national firearm buyback program. While the federal program is voluntary, owning the banned guns remains illegal, and owners must submit a declaration by March 31st to be eligible for possible compensation. Because Alberta will not enforce or support the program, local police and RCMP will not collect firearms through the buyback, leaving Ottawa responsible for arranging its own seizure agents or mobile collection units. Federal officials warn that compensation may not be possible unless provinces like Alberta allow the program to operate locally. Some gun owners and businesses are skeptical, citing past delays and payment disputes with earlier buyback efforts. 
• Recall campaigns targeting Alberta MLAs have faced significant challenges collecting the thousands of signatures required to trigger a recall election. The high-profile campaign against Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides fell far short of the required threshold, ultimately failing. Organizers say the goal is increasingly symbolic - demonstrating voter dissatisfaction rather than successfully ousting MLAs. In Calgary-North, the campaign against MLA Muhammad Yaseen has struggled to gain traction, collecting only a fraction of the needed signatures despite close margins in past elections. Efforts to canvass indoors have been limited, with many businesses unwilling to host petitioners.



They had snow removal in Duggan today. There were no warning signs or internet notice. The windrow in front of the houses is enormous. As a handicapped elderly person living there, there was no access to the street. Which also means no access to their home by emergency personnel. This is not acceptable. It leaves people at risk. Last year, there was a bob cat that plowed a walkway to the street. Our city council is failing the residents of Edmonton.

What's on in Edmonton this weekend? Attend the artist talk and opening reception of Being and Becoming by Garfield Morgan and Tere Cuellar at Gallery@501, partake in an intimate and immersive exploration of art through the sense of smell at Sensory Constellations, grab some popcorn and enjoy a double-feature of BIG SHARK and THE ROOM at Metro Cinema, catch a performance of Death of a Salesman at the Citadel Theatre, join the University of Alberta Department of Music for the 2026 Kilburn Memorial Concert featuring Maya Kilburn (violin) and Pablo Esquivel (piano), and so much more!

SEE ALL UPCOMING EVENTS

Parents across Alberta expect schools to be places of learning - not platforms for political soapboxes.

But last week, an audio recording surfaced of an Alberta teacher using classroom time to mock conservative voters and energy workers.

And, while this might be the only recent recording that's leaked, we all know this isn't the only instance of this kind of thing happening in Alberta schools.

While political topics in the classroom are not inherently inappropriate, this teacher crossed the line by using their authority to push personal political views and portray those who disagree as ignorant, immoral, or beneath serious consideration.

That should concern every parent - no matter their political beliefs.

Teachers have an important role in helping students understand civic life, public debate, and different political ideas.

When handled responsibly, discussions about politics can help students learn critical thinking and respectful disagreement.

But that requires professionalism, balance, and an acknowledgment that no single viewpoint holds a monopoly on truth.

Parents don't object to discussion in the classroom; they object to indoctrination in the classroom.

When educators present their own opinions as fact, dismiss opposing views without understanding them, and ridicule people who hold different beliefs, students are no longer being taught how to think critically.

They are being conditioned to adopt a specific worldview, often without realizing it.

Classrooms deserve educators who can engage students thoughtfully, fairly, and with maturity.

Mocking entire regions of the province or the people who work in key industries undermines trust and deepens division.

Political neutrality, professionalism, and accountability in the classroom are not optional.

Parents must be able to trust that their children are being educated, not influenced behind closed doors.

This situation also raises broader questions about accountability in our education system.

Parents and taxpayers expect teachers to be hired, evaluated, and rewarded based on teaching ability, professionalism, and respect for students and families - not simply ideological conformity.

School boards should have the tools and flexibility to take action when educators break the rules, ensuring classrooms remain safe, fair, and focused on learning.

If this is the kind of education our kids are getting, then the Province needs to make it easier for school boards to fire bad teachers.

Or, worse, these are the kinds of teachers the school boards want in the first place.

It's time to put a stop to political indoctrination in our classrooms.

ON TAP

Stephanie Swensrude

This week, councillors will consider reducing fines for violating parking bans, learn about the state of municipal assets, and review a framework for promoting Edmonton.

There is a community and public services committee meeting on Jan. 19, an urban planning committee meeting on Jan. 20, and an executive committee meeting on Jan. 21.

Here are some key items on the agenda:

• The community and public services committee is to discuss amendments to the traffic bylaw that would lower the fine for violating parking bans from $250 to $150. The fine was increased from $100 to $250 in 2022 in an effort to increase compliance, but administration said it’s been challenging to discern whether it worked given the wide variety of influencing factors, including the degree to which the bylaw has been enforced. If council lowers the fine, administration estimates an annual revenue reduction of about $232,500. Councillors had also asked administration to consider reducing fines further for people who pay tickets within seven days. The report said that change would require updated ticketing software, which would cost about $80,000, and more staff, which could cost at least $70,000 annually. City council will vote on any recommended changes at a future meeting.
• Just over half of the city’s assets are in very good or good condition, according to an annual inventory of municipal assets set to be presented at council’s executive committee. While the percentage of assets in poor and very poor condition has improved slightly and is within an acceptable margin, the city must invest more to maintain the portfolio, administration said. Transit vehicles especially need investment, as more than half of the city’s buses and light rail vehicles are in poor or very poor condition. Based on the age of the Edmonton Transit Service fleet, 250 buses should be replaced every four years, not including growth to accommodate service expansion. Council voted in the fall operating budget adjustment to purchase 25 new buses to accommodate growth. The asset data is meant to provide context for upcoming city council discussions, including the 2027-2030 capital budget.
• The executive committee is scheduled to review a framework for the city’s brand, which administration said “amplifies Edmonton’s strengths and presents a clear, credible, and consistent value proposition that attracts investment, talent, and opportunity.” The framework includes high-level vision and guidance instead of specific objectives and tactics, as different partners have unique mandates, needs, and timelines, reads the report. If the executive committee approves the framework, administration will implement it.

Here are some other items on the agenda:

• Councillors will revisit a conversation postponed from a council meeting in December so that representatives from Winspear Centre can provide input. In a report set to be presented to the executive committee, administration said it does not support creating a revenue sharing agreement to allow the Winspear Centre to earn revenue from the Century Place parkade. In 2014, the city loaned the Winspear $12.9 million to construct a parking structure. It is not yet open, but it has fewer than half the number of parking stalls than were originally planned, meaning the Winspear will collect less parking revenue than expected, affecting its ability to pay back its loan. Several options are under consideration. Administration said the city has no legal obligation to provide parking revenue to the Winspear.
• The urban planning committee will consider granting authorization to applicants looking to create statutory plans for two new neighbourhoods: Kettle Lakes, a neighbourhood in Decoteau, and an industrial area north of Highway 19 in the city’s southwest.
• Council’s executive committee is scheduled to consider designating the Peter Hemingway Aquatic Centre as a municipal historic resource. Peter Hemingway, a notable Edmonton architect who also built the Muttart Conservatory, designed what was then known as the Coronation Pool as part of the Canadian centennial project. The building was renamed to honour Hemingway in 2005. While buildings that are designated municipal historic resources normally receive funding for restoration and rehabilitation, the centre has already been undergoing renovations since 2021.
• Administration recommends that council update the storefront improvement program to make it possible to reapply for funding after 10 years. This is expected to yield one or two extra applications per year, and the proposed changes can be accommodated through the program’s current budget. Administration also recommends adding the storefront refresh grant to the policy. The grant was piloted in 2019 for smaller projects that wouldn’t be eligible for the storefront improvement program. The larger grants have typically gone to property owners for large exterior building repairs, while tenants are responsible for smaller maintenance, repairs, and signage. The grants are available to business and property owners in business improvement areas and in the target areas of Little Italy and Norwood Boulevard.

Lastly, here are some updates from the last time council was in chambers:

• At a public hearing on Dec. 15, council voted 12-0 (Coun. Anne Stevenson was absent) to approve rezoning applications for 11 properties without debate, including for residential properties in Garneau and McKernan, and for a fire station in Athlone.
• Several hours of the public hearing were spent on a rezoning application in Crestwood. The rezoning passed 9-4, with Mayor Andrew Knack and councillors Karen Principe, Thu Parmar, and Reed Clarke voting against. Council also spent several hours discussing a rezoning application in Grovenor. That application passed 10-3 with Principe, Parmar, and Clarke voting against. Seven agenda items were postponed to a public hearing on Jan. 26 because of the limited time remaining in the meeting.

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• On Wednesday, at 9:30 am, there will be a meeting of the Executive Committee. On the agenda are options to address a parking revenue shortfall for the Francis Winspear Centre for Music (FWCM) following its Completion Project, which included an underground parking structure smaller than originally planned. FWCM is seeking additional revenue from the nearby City-owned Century Place parkade to meet its $12.9 million loan obligations, though the City has no legal requirement to provide this funding. Administration has proposed three options: (1) a Parking Funding Agreement, giving FWCM net revenue from after-hours and weekend parkade use, but requiring $1.1 million in security upgrades; (2) a Parkade License and Management Agreement, where FWCM would manage Century Place and cover operating costs in exchange for parking revenue; and (3) a one-time payment or loan forgiveness, estimated at $5 million, which preserves City control and avoids operating impacts. FWCM prefers the third option, though it requested $7.5 million.
• The Executive Committee will discuss the City of Edmonton’s 2025 Infrastructure State and Condition report. It provides a detailed snapshot of the City’s assets, including their quantity, replacement value, and physical condition. Edmonton’s infrastructure portfolio has grown to a replacement value of approximately $39.8 billion, up $5.1 billion from 2023, with 54.2% of assets rated Very Good or Good, 33.2% Fair, and 10.2% Poor or Very Poor. While overall conditions remain stable, aging assets, particularly in Facilities and transit rolling stock, pose risks of deterioration and increased maintenance costs if investment levels are not maintained. The report organizes assets by service area to better inform decision-making and highlights the importance of continued investment to sustain service levels, manage renewal needs, and address the “renewal gap.”
• Mayor Andrew Knack says frustration over neighbourhood snow removal has reached a tipping point, with poor compliance during parking bans making it harder for crews to do their work effectively. With Phase 2 blading underway, Knack said vehicles left on restricted streets slow plows and reduce the quality of snow clearing for entire blocks and has called for stronger enforcement, including towing and impounding vehicles, in future budgets. Knack said City crews are meeting the service levels set by council, but acknowledged those standards may no longer be sufficient, especially during one of the snowiest winters on record. After recently visiting Edmonton’s sister city of Harbin, China, he said the scale of investment and intensity of snow removal there highlighted what stronger resourcing can achieve. With major winter events like the Deep Freeze festival approaching, he added the City will look at whether additional short-term measures are needed to improve safety and accessibility.
• Edmonton’s office market showed signs of recovery in 2025, with vacancy rates falling to about 19%, close to pre-pandemic levels, according to a new CBRE report. Vacancies had peaked near 23% in 2023, but stabilization was helped by office-to-residential conversion projects and a broader return to in-person work. Commercial real estate experts say mandates bringing provincial employees back to the office are creating a ripple effect, encouraging more companies to follow suit. Several downtown towers have been partially converted to residential use, reducing excess office inventory and adding more activity to the core. Major financial institutions have also recommitted to downtown Edmonton, including National Bank’s investment in Manulife Place and ATB’s continued presence.
• Edmonton is considering a new bylaw that would require businesses to sort their waste, including organics and recyclables, as non-residential sectors generate 70% of the city’s waste, half of which is organic. The City plans to offer grants, educational toolkits, and look at programs for construction and demolition waste, while surveying businesses before finalizing the plan for a Council Committee this summer. Business owners support the idea in principle but want transparency to ensure their efforts make a difference and infrastructure improvements to handle increased organics. Similar bylaws exist in Calgary, Vancouver, Regina, and Halifax, and proponents say it levels the playing field and removes discretion from individual businesses.