Reg Rygus

Keren Tang's February newsletter is quite long so I click the link below to read it.

What's on in Edmonton this weekend? Enjoy an evening of dance featuring Peggy Baker presented by BWDC, celebrate Mile Zero Dance’s 40th Anniversary Salon: RUBY CABARET with two nights of performances, attend the Pocket-Sized Series kick off

at Paper Birch Books with the Mbira Renaissance Band, welcome the Year of the Horse at the Royal Alberta Museum with a lively outdoor parade and other activities, discover emerging talent at the Yardbird Suite’s Emerging Artist series featuring Raphael, join songwriter Stephen Fearing for a benefit concert at The Carrot Community Arts Coffeehouse, and so much more!

SEE ALL UPCOMING EVENTS

Below is the latest issue of the MILL WOODS MOSAIC. Included in this edition is Part 2 of a series on the History of Mill Woods written by Catherine C. Cole.

• We’re launching a new series of Pints & Politics events across Edmonton, giving residents the chance to meet their City Councillors and have real conversations about City Hall. There will be events in different areas of the city, and every Councillor will be invited. Attendees are welcome at any event, not just the ones with their own Councillors! The first event will take place on Friday, February 20th with Councillors Thu Parmar and Reed Clarke. Attendance is free, but please RSVP due to limited capacity
• There will be a City Council meeting on Tuesday at 9:30 am. On the agenda is a proposed private tree protection bylaw to address the city's declining urban canopy. Currently at 13%, Edmonton aims for 20% coverage by 2071, a goal that requires an additional 2,900 hectares of canopy on private land. Expected benefits of the expansion include better climate resilience, improved drainage, and enhancing mental health and long-term affordability. City Administration has recommended against the bylaw, citing concerns regarding increased red tape for developers and homeowners. Ward Nakota Isga Councillor Reed Clarke expressed concern that further regulation could stifle popular residential infill projects during a period of tightening capital. The debate now moves to City Council as they weigh environmental targets against the need for a streamlined development process.
• Edmonton’s Urban Planning Committee hosted a packed meeting last week regarding the City’s infill strategy, with speakers providing diverse feedback. This high level of engagement comes amidst a population increase of 187,000 residents since 2021, which has placed additional strain on the city’s housing supply. Critics of the current strategy called for greater resident consultation, citing impacts on private property investments such as solar installations. Conversely, housing advocates and student groups argued that infill is essential for market affordability and talent retention. While Administration proposed reducing maximum units per lot from eight to six, some advocates warned this could inadvertently raise individual unit costs. With some citing recent election results as a mandate for growth, the committee continues to weigh regulatory changes against the preservation of neighbourhood quality of life.
• Edmonton is advancing a proposal to establish "Seventy Gr8 Ave," a new entertainment district located on 78th Avenue. By utilizing provincial liquor laws, the designation allows for public alcohol consumption during road closures, reducing the administrative burden on local businesses hosting community events. The initiative, which targets an area known as "Happy Beer Street," received 87% public support during consultations for its potential to create vibrant pedestrian spaces and bolster the local economy. To address noise and safety concerns, the district would implement a 10:00 pm closing time, maintain a security presence, and require events to be family-friendly. City officials say that the project will not cost taxpayers, as participating businesses will cover operational expenses. Following a unanimous committee vote, the bylaw proceeds to City Council.
• Edmonton restaurants are raising concerns over new patio licence fees set to take effect April 1st, with some operators questioning whether they can afford to continue offering year-round patios. Under the new shared-investment model, large year-round patios on public space will cost $6,900 annually, while large seasonal patios will cost $3,700, though small sidewalk patios remain free. The City says the fees are necessary due to budget shortfalls and will only cover part of the maintenance costs. Business owners, including those downtown, argue the industry is still recovering from pandemic losses and rising operating costs, and some doubt the City’s cost calculations. Critics worry the added expense could undermine efforts to build a vibrant, year-round patio culture and potentially lead to fewer patios across the city. While larger restaurant groups say they may absorb the costs, smaller establishments could face tougher decisions about whether patio season remains viable.

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ON THE AGENDA

Stephanie Swensrude

This week, council will consider a below‑market land sale in Wedgewood Heights, decide whether to remove municipal reserve land in Edmiston Industrial, and review a revised capital request from the largest non-profit social housing operator in Alberta.

There is a council meeting scheduled for Feb. 17 and 18, and a non-regular council meeting scheduled for Feb. 20.

Here are some key items on the agenda:

• Administration has proposed selling a portion of a surplus school site in Wedgewood Heights for $1 to Treaty 8 First Nations of Alberta for a 60-unit mixed-market affordable housing development. If council approves the sale, administration will use part of its Housing Accelerator Fund allocation to expedite the development. Some nearby residents have opposed development on the site in Ward sipiyiniwak because it would remove green space from the community. Council will hold a statutory public hearing about the sale during its meeting on Feb. 18.
• Council is scheduled to debate at a statutory public hearing whether it should sell municipal reserve land in the Edmiston industrial area. The city acquired the land at 17803 114 Avenue NW in 1987 and planned to build a park, and later a new eco-station, but both uses are now deemed unnecessary. Administration plans to subdivide the property into three industrial lots. Council is required to hold a public hearing to dispose of municipal reserve land.
• Council is scheduled to review a revised capital budget request from GEF Seniors Housing. Council rejected the organization’s request for an additional $4.7 million during the fall supplement budget adjustment and advised it to bring the budget down to $2.1 million. Administration said it will work with GEF to determine its operating and capital expenses for the 2027-2030 budget cycle, and said it will work to establish and fund a capital reserve to address the organization’s longer-term capital needs.
• Councillors will discuss council’s priorities and related performance measures for the 2027-2030 budget cycle at a non-regular meeting on Feb. 20.
• Council will meet in private to discuss a confidential negotiation, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities Conference, council priorities, and the Office of the City Auditor’s 2026 work plan.

• Federal Energy Minister Tim Hodgson says Alberta and Ottawa can still meet the objectives of their November MOU on a new pipeline and carbon capture project, even if the April 1st deadline is missed. The agreement ties pipeline development to a major carbon capture initiative and requires progress on carbon pricing, methane emissions, and impact assessment processes. Hodgson says that both governments remain committed and are working in good faith, noting that deadlines are important but can be flexible if progress is being made. Alberta’s Minister of Affordability and Utilities, Nathan Neudorf, echoed that significant differences remain, but both sides share the same goal and are negotiating practical, cost-effective solutions. 
• Premier Danielle Smith says the Province is heading into “significant” deficits due to lower oil prices, with the upcoming budget expected to be challenging. The government now projects West Texas Intermediate oil to average $61.50 USD per barrel, down from the $68 USD forecast in last year’s budget, though the reduced differential between WTI and WCS helps compensate somewhat. While deficits were already projected, they are expected to grow, though the Premier has ruled out tax increases and deep service cuts. Smith says spending will continue to prioritize health care, education, support for vulnerable residents, and infrastructure, even as tough decisions are made. The opposition has criticized the government’s financial management, pointing to past spending decisions and ongoing pressures in hospitals and classrooms. The Premier also renewed calls for federal tax and equalization reform, arguing Alberta sends too much money to Ottawa while facing its own budget shortfalls.
• Premier Danielle Smith and Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides have announced a $143 million investment to establish 476 "classroom complexity teams" across Alberta. Composed of one teacher and two educational assistants, these teams will support K-6 classrooms in managing diverse academic and behavioural needs, such as English language learning and specialized enrichment. Minister Nicolaides claimed that targeting early grades provides foundational stability and is more cost-effective than secondary school remediation. The initiative is informed by data from 89,000 classrooms and supports a broader commitment to hire 3,000 teachers and 1,500 assistants over three years. While the Alberta Teachers' Association characterizes the funding as a response to years of systemic pressure, the government frames it as a strategic adaptation to maintain high-quality educational standards. The teams will be distributed province-wide, with 171 assigned to Calgary and 143 to Edmonton.
• Alberta has paused a recent decision that removed provincial health coverage for some temporary foreign workers after concerns were raised by employers and communities. In early January, the Province made workers on certain International Experience Canada permits ineligible for public health insurance, with many only discovering the change when attempting to renew coverage. The issue drew particular concern in the Bow Valley, where the tourism sector relies heavily on these workers. The government now says the decision was premature and is reviewing the policy. For the time being, affected permit holders can again qualify for coverage if their work permit is valid for at least 12 months and they can show full-time employment. Local advocates say clearer public communication is urgently needed, warning that uncertainty could disrupt hiring ahead of the busy summer season.
• Alberta is increasing traffic fines starting March 13th, with most speeding tickets rising by 8% - 9% and more serious offences jumping up to 50%. For example, fines for going 10 km/h over the limit will increase to $120 from $110, while those exceeding 50 km/h over the limit will face $620, up from $495. Drivers speeding in construction zones or near emergency vehicles will also see higher penalties, with a 30 km/h over fine rising to $540 from $499. The steepest increase applies to reckless driving, racing, or stunt-related offences, which now carry a $710 fine, up from $473. Other penalties include 30% hikes for driving without a licence, driving with suspended registration, and using a phone or performing distractions while driving. Justice Minister Mickey Amery says the increases align Alberta with other provinces and aim to improve road safety. The last traffic fine adjustments in the province were in 2020, 2015, and 2003.

What's on in Edmonton this weekend? Experience a daring evening of movement and sonic imagination with Ballet Edmonton’s presentation of THRESHOLD, enjoy a collaborative performance from Edmonton’s choral community in support of Alberta’s 2SLGBTQ+ community at Sing With Love, learn more about the resilience and creativity of Edmonton’s weaving community at the première screening of Weaving Stories, celebrate Valentine’s Day with a night of improvised music at An Improvised Valentine: Jessica Ackerley Quartet, experience a brand-new comedic play from multiple award-winning Fringe legends Alex Dallas and Jimmy Hogg at Evie & Alfie: A Very British Love Story, catch the opening of Burning Mom at the Citadel Theatre, enjoy a night of music at the 9th instalment of the REJAZZ series as Good Information plays OutKast [REJAZZ] with Tomi Lumiere and Guests, and so much more!

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ON THE AGENDA

Stephanie Swensrude

This week, councillors are scheduled to discuss proposed changes to the zoning bylaw, an entertainment district on Happy Beer Street, and whether they should forgive taxes for a handful of non-profits.

There is an urban planning committee meeting scheduled for Feb. 9 and 10, and an executive committee meeting is scheduled for Feb. 11.

Here are some key items on the agenda:

• Urban planning committee is set to review proposed changes to the zoning bylaw that would limit infill in mature neighbourhoods. Administration suggests amending the small-scale residential (RS) zone, used in most residential neighbourhoods within Anthony Henday Drive, to reduce the maximum number of units on a mid-block site from eight to six. The previous city council narrowly voted in July 2025 to keep the unit cap at eight until more public consultation could be done. Administration is also proposing to increase the minimum lot area required per unit. A report outlining the changes says the approach will “reduce the overall development intensity, reduce conflicts (e.g. vehicle parking and waste collection bins) by accommodating more operations on site, and improve design outcomes while aligning and right-sizing the approach to the incremental development envisioned for the interior of neighbourhoods by the City Plan.”
• Urban planning committee is also expected to consider proposed changes aimed at bigger infill projects outside of nodes and corridors, where administration is planning for the most growth. It recommends changing both the district policy and the small-medium scale residential (RSM) zone to limit where the zone would be supported. Rezoning applications for up to four storeys outside nodes and corridors would mainly be supported only at sites that are both near a mass transit station and along an arterial road, or on a corner site along an arterial road. City staff would also shift away from a strict checklist toward a more flexible set of factors for staff to use when evaluating rezoning applications. Administration recommended against a bylaw to regulate trees on private property.
• If councillors support the changes, administration will draft amendments to be debated at a public hearing, probably on April 7. Staff proposes that if council supports the amendments, the changes would come into effect three months after the public hearing to allow for current applications to work through the review process.
• Executive committee will review a bylaw that would establish an entertainment district on part of Happy Beer Street. The bylaw would close the street to vehicle traffic during certain periods and allow patrons to consume food and alcohol purchased from adjacent restaurants as they walk along the street. Committee is expected to make a recommendation to council, which will vote on the bylaw at a future meeting.
• Administration recommends cancelling $265,000 in unpaid taxes from accounts where collection efforts have been unsuccessful. The sum is from 172 inactive manufactured home accounts or leased accounts, or from businesses that have not paid their business improvement area taxes. A report that will be presented to executive committee on Feb. 11 says it’s challenging to collect BIA taxes because taxes are not secured against property, unlike property taxes. If a property owner doesn’t pay taxes, the city can auction the property, but the available enforcement mechanisms for BIA taxes are less effective. If committee recommends cancelling the taxes, council will make the final decision at a future meeting.
• Three non-profit organizations have asked the city to forgive taxes for previous years. Homes 4 Hope operates a sober living facility. It failed to apply for non-profit tax exemption status in 2023 and 2024, and it is asking for about $10,000 to be forgiven. The Alberta Craft Council owes about $11,600 because it did not provide required documentation in 2023. The Ethiopian Canadian Community Association of Edmonton is asking for up to $41,000 to be forgiven after it did not renew its exemption status in 2023 and 2024. All of the requests fall outside of the council policy that governs tax forgiveness. Executive committee has the option to recommend that council forgive all or some of the outstanding tax amounts.
• This is our 275th edition of Edmonton Minute, marking 275 weeks of tracking City Council meetings and summarizing key details for residents! This newsletter was created to make local politics accessible, cutting through lengthy reports, jargon, and marathon meetings so more residents can stay informed and hold leaders accountable. We have covered debates on spending, taxes, and City priorities, highlighted good and bad decisions, exposed waste, and shown when core services are neglected. Funded entirely by readers, Common Sense Edmonton relies on donations to continue its work, so if you appreciate our work to improve City Hall accountability and ensure citizens stay informed, please consider making a donation to keep this newsletter and our other important municipal work going!

COMMON SENSE EDMONTON

• The Urban Planning Committee will meet this morning at 9:30 am. On the agenda are proposed amendments to the District Policy and Zoning Bylaw 20001 to better manage midblock redevelopment. The changes aim to concentrate larger-scale developments primarily within nodes and corridors, near mass transit, and along arterial roads, while interior neighbourhoods will rely on the Small Scale Residential (RS) Zone for infill. The amendments replace strict criteria-based policies with greater discretion to evaluate local context. Updates to the Small-Medium Scale Transition Residential (RSM) Zone would limit its use to specified locations, reducing rezonings that provide only marginal density increases. Public engagement highlighted concerns over spot zoning, traffic, neighbourhood character, and clarity of policies, which the amendments address through clearer definitions and context-sensitive guidance. If supported by the Urban Planning Committee, draft bylaws will be prepared for a City Council Public Hearing in April 2026.
• Councillor Jon Morgan has proposed reintroducing a diluted, inhibited form of calcium chloride to improve snow and ice removal on city streets. The chemical was previously discontinued in 2019 due to concerns over vehicle corrosion and environmental impacts, though it is still used on some sidewalks, bike lanes, and Anthony Henday Drive. Morgan emphasizes that a weaker, safer solution could help manage dangerous winter conditions like the record snowfall last December. Experts, including University of Alberta’s Tamzin Blewett, warn that widespread use could harm freshwater ecosystems, particularly during spring thaws when wildlife are vulnerable to changes in salinity. City administration will review available snow-clearing options and present recommendations to council. Other Alberta cities, such as Calgary and St. Albert, already use calcium chloride under controlled conditions, often combined with abrasives or brines to limit environmental and infrastructure impacts.
• An interim audit of Edmonton’s 2025 municipal election has prompted calls to reinstate electronic vote tabulators following significant operational challenges. The removal of these machines, mandated by a $4.8 million provincial policy change, required hand-counting thousands of ballots, which the City Auditor reported made a proper audit nearly impossible. The transition almost doubled staffing requirements to over 5,000 workers, yet 16% of voters still experienced wait times exceeding one hour. Beyond delays, the audit drew attention to technical hurdles with the provincially mandated permanent electors register and manual entry errors that necessitated a ward recount. While some officials noted that existing checks and balances ultimately functioned, Ward Ipiihkoohkanipiaohtsi Councillor Jon Morgan is calling for a return to proven tools like tabulators to ensure the accuracy, safety, and security of future elections.
• Rising construction costs and higher development fees are slowing Edmonton’s real estate market, according to a recent CBRE report. Builders and developers are facing increased expenses that are being passed on to buyers, reducing demand. The report notes that these financial pressures are affecting both residential and commercial projects, making new developments less attractive. Experts say this has had a noticeable dampening effect on the market, slowing growth compared with previous years. Despite the challenges, Edmonton continues to grow, but the pace of development may remain constrained until costs stabilize. Industry stakeholders are closely watching policy changes and market trends that could influence future investment. Overall, the market is adjusting to a new financial reality that could reshape Edmonton.

• Premier Danielle Smith is seeking a formal role in judicial appointments for Alberta’s courts and the Supreme Court of Canada. To ensure the judiciary reflects Albertan values, Smith proposed a joint advisory committee of provincial and federal experts to recommend candidates. She also requested a relaxation of bilingual requirements, which she argues alienates Western Canadians. Alberta has threatened to withhold funding for new judicial positions until a collaborative process is established, citing Quebec’s model as a precedent. Federal Justice Minister Sean Fraser defended the current system, emphasizing judicial independence to prevent "democratic backsliding". However, recent data showing that 76.3% of federal appointees since 2016 were Liberal donors has intensified calls for transparency.
• Parks Canada is exploring new ways to manage overcrowding at Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Paradise Valley, where visitation has surged, with Lake Louise seeing a 70% increase from 2010 to 2019. Options under consideration include summer vehicle bans, reservation systems, parking time limits, and maintaining paid parking. The agency aims to balance protecting wildlife and the environment with maintaining a positive visitor experience, following earlier measures like restricting private vehicle access to Moraine Lake and introducing paid parking at Lake Louise. Local stakeholders, including conservationists and tour operators, emphasize proactive management, mass transit, and sufficient funding over restrictive measures or pricing strategies. Parks Canada is also reviewing visitor management in other areas, such as Lake Minnewanka and Jasper National Park, and public input is being sought to guide final decisions. Some residents suggest expanding accessible natural areas to relieve pressure on Lake Louise and support sustainable tourism growth in the region.
• Alberta has expanded parental access to teens’ online medical records up to age 18. Previously limited to children under 12, the change allows parents to view lab results, prescriptions, diagnostic reports, and visit summaries through the provincial health portal. Doctors warn this could discourage teens from seeking care for sensitive issues like sexual health, mental health, or substance use if confidentiality can’t be assured. Pediatric experts argue the move conflicts with the “mature minor” principle, which allows adolescents to consent to treatment without parental involvement. While 16- and 17-year-olds can request that parental access be revoked, critics say the policy still risks eroding trust and could lead to delayed or avoided care. The province says safeguards exist and a privacy impact assessment is under review, but comparisons show other provinces cut off parental access at younger ages.
• Alberta’s long-promised passenger rail master plan has been delayed again and is now expected to be released later this year. The province says it is taking a deliberate approach and does not want to rush a plan meant to guide passenger rail development over the next 15 years. The proposal envisions public, private, or hybrid rail options, including links between Calgary and Edmonton, connections to major airports, a transit hub in Red Deer, and potential service to the Rocky Mountain parks. Construction has previously been suggested as early as 2027, possibly under a new Crown corporation similar to Ontario’s Metrolinx. Provincial officials say municipalities, Indigenous communities, and international experts have been consulted to ensure the plan is realistic and affordable.
• Alberta’s governing UCP raised over $9.3 million in 2025, maintaining a fundraising lead over the Opposition NDP, which collected $6.3 million. The UCP’s total includes donations to the central party and constituency associations, with most contributions of $250 or more coming in the final quarter of the year. Executive Director Dustin van Vugt credited the party’s strong messaging, including Premier Danielle Smith’s “strong, proud, free Alberta” narrative, for boosting donations. The NDP also saw its strongest quarter at year-end and emphasized that fundraising reflects both political support and readiness to govern. Smaller parties raised far less, including the Progressive Tory Party ($101,000) and the separatist Republican Party of Alberta ($196,000), while several registered parties reported minimal or no funds.

What's on in Edmonton this weekend? Take in Edmonton’s longest running winter festival and celebrate prairie winter life at the Silver Skate Festival, check out the 12th Annual InFocus Photo Exhibit at the Red Brick Common, celebrate art and culture at the Togather Chinatown Arts Festival, enjoy a special matinée performance with Sierra Jamerson at the Yardbird Suite, prepare for an unforgettable evening as Donita Large & The Small Band take the stage to debut brand new music, enjoy a special Black History Month screening of It Comes in Waves followed by a post-screening conversation with the director and screenwriter, and so much more!

SEE ALL UPCOMING EVENTS

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.