Speaking Municipally (Taproot Edmonton)

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Trump Tweet

• Tweet from EPLdotCA

Fast Cars

• A Collection of Cars From “Fast and Furious” Hides in Edmonton

Hydrogen Node

• Greater Edmonton Region Well-Suited to Become Canada's First Hydrogen Node

COVID Leadership

• COVID-19 has killed 110 Albertans so far during worst month of pandemic
• Edmonton mayor says stronger COVID-19 measures ‘needed soon’ to slow growth in 2nd wave
• Mask Bylaw Agenda Item

Budget Adjustments

• News Release: Report release sets the stage for budget discussions to begin with a proposed zero percent tax levy increase
• Edmonton's smaller rec centres could be sold, council hears
• 3 pools, 2 arenas on chopping block as Edmonton looks at tax freeze
• 'Unlikely to be sustainable:' Auditor cautions city after operating spending increases sharply since 2000

Carding Ban

• News Release: Taking action on police reform
• Tweet from Ubaka Ogbogu

Police Reports

• Edmonton police chief says governments and agencies need to work better together, not defund police
• 'Our current system is fractured:' Edmonton police chief pushing for partnership response to strengthen community safety
• A new look for the Edmonton Police Service? Report on uniforms, vehicle livery goes to council Monday

Speak to us!

• Voicelink.fm

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we highlighted the Edmonton Community Foundation which "acts as a bridge between donors and charities to create a strong, vibrant community for generations to come." We also talked about TELUS STORYHIVE which is "giving away 10 grants of $10,000 each to aspiring podcasters in BC and Alberta."

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

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Playoffs Underway

• 'It's SO on!': Edmonton, Winnipeg mayors make playoff bet

In-Person Learning

• Alberta expects K-12 classroom learning to resume next week after temporary online shift amid third wave of COVID-19

Project TENSOR

• Edmonton police launch Project Tensor for second summer, aiming to curb noise and speeding

Sohi Announces

• Sohi – An Edmonton For All Of Us
• Amarjeet Sohi, former city councillor and federal cabinet minister, joins Edmonton mayoral race
• Andrew Knack's tweet

Vision Zero

• Vision Zero 2020 Annual Report
• News Release: Five years of Vision Zero: Improving safety on Edmonton's streets
• City tweet re: Street Labs
• City tweet re: 40 km/h

WEM Pedestrian Bridge

• Replacement West Edmonton Mall pedestrian bridge over 170 Street to cost $8M, city slated to pay half
• City planning $8M replacement for West Edmonton Mall pedestrian bridge
• Andrew Knack's tweet

Upzoning for City Plan

• Rezoning applications propose increased density in Windsor Park and Westmount

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we highlighted the SHIFT Podcast by Alberta Innovates which showcases the work being done in the province's innovation ecosystem. The latest episode features Craig Milne, CEO of Copperstone Technologies, a company that offers robots as a service to mining companies. We also talked about The Well Endowed Podcast from the Edmonton Community Foundation. Episode 95 features a conversation with Kristine Archibald, executive director of the River Valley Alliance (RVA).

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

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Squirrel photo

• Edmonton newspaper's tweet of squirrels "hugging" has grabbed people's attention

McFee's salary

• Edmonton police chief's salary made public

Funding formula

• Councillors' actions on police funding differ from candidates' words
• Edmonton city council settles on $407M annual base funding for police

Guest: Sharon Yeo

• @sharonyeo
• 2017: Introducing: Edmonton Chinatown Walking Tours

Guest: David Holdsworth

• LinkedIn
• 2019: City considers building a replica gate for Edmonton's Chinatown

Guest: Hon Leong

• Chinatown Transformation Collaborative Society

Chinatown

• 2022 Chinatown Projects & Support
• 2017: Chinatown Strategy
• Keith Gerein: Edmonton's Chinatown looks to take control, even if that means moving
• Edmontonians join national effort to rebuild Chinatowns across Canada
• Pandemic leaves Edmonton's Chinatown just trying to hang on

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week, with help from the Edmonton Community Foundation, we highlighted Is This For Real?, a podcast about various facets of Black life in Edmonton. We also talked about Alberta Blue Cross which offers health, dental, life and disability coverage for small business employees.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

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Mel Priestley

• @melpriestley

Mayor Iveson turns 40

• Mayor's office tweet

Nordic Spas

• A glacier run-off and eight pools: Plans for 2020 Edmonton Nordic Spa revealed

Smoke

• 'The apocalypse is back': Air quality advisory in effect as wildfire smoke blankets city

City Market

• Carly Robinson's tweet
• IPEdmonton's tweet
• yegdtmarket on Instagram: Post 1 and Post 2
• Elise Stolte: Surprise. Farmers Market going back to 104 Street.
• Downtown farmers’ market to 104th Street: I can’t quit you!
• City Market to leave 104th Street

Background

• 104th Street: Marquee area, mismatched market
• Edmonton’s City Market Downtown needs community representation
• Recap: The City Market Decides Against the Mercer Warehouse as a Potential Year-Round Venue
• Why we love living downtown

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we talked about Alberta Blue Cross which is organizing The Wellness Summit on October 10. The event is "a day to explore fresh perspectives and practices around wellness" and the theme this year is "what it takes to create healthy workplace cultures where everyone thrives." We also talked about some of the events upcoming from or featuring APN members including the Edmonton International Cat Festival and Pecha Kucha Night 34. You can find those and plenty of other events at the APN website.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

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Don Iveson

• DonIveson.ca
• @doniveson on Twitter

TLC 4 LRT

• Edmonton’s LRT receives ‘tender loving care’ this spring/summer
• Major Edmonton LRT maintenance will see station closed, service to NAIT suspended

Transit Fares

• Reduced fares, free rides on the table as council committee eyes transit study
• March 5 Urban Planning Committee Minutes
• Nov. 6/7 City Council Minutes

Metro Line LRT

• Dec. 4, 2018: Edmonton will spend months testing Metro LRT Line signal system; Thales says it’s ready
• Jan. 25, 2019: Metro, Capital Line LRT closed Sunday for testing of signalling system

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we talked about Let's Do Coffee which is a production of NAIT's Mawji Centre for New Venture and Student Entrepreneurship. We also highlighted ATB Financial which believe it or not is a bank that offers chequing and savings accounts!

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

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Regional Transit

• News Release: Regional Transit Services Commission enters next phase

Warehouse Space

• E-commerce drives demand for warehouse real estate in Edmonton

Employee Experience

• News Release: City releases 2020 Employee Experience survey results

Solar Farm

• Debate over contentious river valley solar farm proposal extends to third day as city councillors hear from 55 speakers
• Edmonton city council votes 7-6 to allow large solar farm project to go ahead
• Edmonton council approves rezoning for river valley solar farm
• Tweet from Councillor Walters
• Post from Councillor Hamilton
• Post from Councillor Knack
• Tweet from Conrad Nobert
• Tweet from Matt Dance
• Tweet from Rob Houle

Wage Freeze

• Edmonton council agrees to freeze their wages in 2021-22

Polls

• Most would not vote for current city council in 2021 election
• October 2017: Current council, mayor 'deserve to be re-elected' at municipal election, new poll finds
• Property tax reduction top of Edmontonians' priority list ahead of 2021 election, poll suggests

Andrew Knack

• Attacked by Mike Nickel
• Defended on Twitter
• Addicted to TikTok

Southside Shelter

• Edmonton hurries to open downtown shelter as Mustard Seed pitches south-side site

Speak to us!

• Voicelink.fm

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we highlighted The Well Endowed Podcast from the Edmonton Community Foundation. Episodes 80 and 81, hosted by the first ever enemy-of-the-podcast Julian Faid, tackle the history of urban planning in Edmonton. We also talked about The Shared Mic: Conversations for the Ages from Age Friendly Edmonton. The intergenerational podcast brings together "Edmontonians of different ages and backgrounds to discuss topics that matter to them."

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

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Waste collector appreciation

• Edmonton recognizes Waste Collector Appreciation Day on June 17

World Cup 2026

• Toronto, Vancouver selected among host cities for 2026 World Cup, Edmonton snubbed

COVID-19 restrictions

• Alberta to lift remaining health restrictions

102 Avenue

• Troy's tweet
• Mayor Sohi's tweet
• Edmonton will keep 102 Avenue closed to traffic for 1-year pedestrian pilot
• 1988 Edmonton downtown design improvement manual

Chinatown infrastructure

• Chinatown 'like a wound that we all have,' says advocate
• Councillors support infrastructure boosts coming to Edmonton's Chinatown

Police funding

• Downtown Core and Transit Safety Plan
• Accused in Chinatown homicides was dropped off in Edmonton by RCMP 3 days before killings
• Mayor Sohi's tweet
• Chinatown homicides: McFee says EPS couldn't arrest Justin Bone because RCMP dropped him off
• Councillors' actions on police funding differ from candidates' words
• Edmonton Mayor Sohi says despite recent tensions, relations improving with police commission

Private trees

• Edmonton city councillors consider new bylaw to protect trees on private land

Rediscover ETS

• ETS launches campaign to inspire Edmontonians to rediscover their city with transit

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we highlighted Alberta Blue Cross which can help employees manage their own health, dental, life and disability coverage online — any time, on any device. We also talked about The Future Of, a podcast from ATB that promises to give you insights to help navigate what is often an uncertain future. Hosted by ATB's chief economist Todd Hirsch, the podcast explores how our economy and communities can not only brace for change, but embrace the opportunity it creates.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Troy and Mack are Repeating Municipally Episode 33, an episode from 2019 featuring then-planner Anne Stevenson talking about the Zoning Bylaw Renewal project, lending some important context to the upcoming discussion about Zoning Bylaw Renewal which will be going to public hearing in October.

We're joined by Christel Kjenner, director of the housing action team at the City of Edmonton, to get an overview of what the city is doing about the housing crisis.

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Christel Kjenner

• Christel Kjenner on LinkedIn
• November 2021: The future of affordable housing according to our Christel ball (Episode 154)

Housing at the city

• Affordable Housing Strategy
• Housing Accelerator Fund
• Feb. 21, 2024: Building more homes that Canadians can afford in Edmonton

Housing context

• Calgary population surges by staggering 6%, Edmonton by 4.2% in latest StatsCan estimates
• Lack of clarity in district plans could erode trust, councillors say
• Edmonton mayor names 16-member task force to tackle housing and homelessness
• Housing advocates say big money is transforming rental markets. And Alberta could be a poster child
• New standard could help shift Edmonton's growth pattern
• Fifteen years after the original strategy, Edmonton has a new plan for homelessness

Rapid fire

• The 'Redmonton' party no more: Alberta NDP's base has shifted to Calgary
• Edmonton Fringe raises $100,000 in donations, unveils 2024 theme
• Troy's tweet

See us in person!

• May 30: Speaking Municipally Live: Untangling the housing knot at the Foundry Room

This episode is brought to you by Park Power, your friendly, local utilities provider (and title sponsor of Taproot's Regional Roundup). Park Power offers electricity, natural gas, and internet to homes, businesses, and farms throughout Alberta. Learn more at parkpower.ca.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

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City Centre Mall

• Edmonton City Centre mall, several downtown towers, sold

Snowpocalypse

• Over 360 crashes in Edmonton over snowy weekend

Calgary Driving

• Calgary is best city in world for drivers, survey says

Sarah Hoyles

• @sarahhoyles
• Paths for People

Transit

• Troy's tweet
• Edmonton to roll out revamped bus network by next summer

Cycling

• Edmonton Bike Plan
• Cycling in Edmonton

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we highlighted the Edmonton Community Foundation which "acts as a bridge between donors and charities to create a strong, vibrant community for generations to come." We also talked about ATB Financial's transformation efforts. "By combining cutting edge technology and banking, it’s just one more way ATB is working on being relentlessly inventive for Albertans’ greater good."

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

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#YEGCatRescue2019

• Cats trapped in Edmonton sinkhole prompts firefighter rescue

City Hall Pool

• Construction for the overbudget city hall wading pool ends this summer

Ariana Grande

• Clear bags only at Ariana Grande concert in Edmonton

109 Street Bike Lanes

• City scraps plan to put a bike lane on busy 109 Street
• Troy's tweet

Core Zone

• #YEGCoreZone
• Introducing the #YEGCoreZone
• Group pitches YEG Core Zone proposal to lower speed limits in the heart of Edmonton

SingularityU

• Mayor Iveson's remarks - #1 & #2
• Event at Rossdale power plant has people buzzing about building’s potential

Royal Mayfair Golf Club

• Royal Mayfair Golf Club gets lease extended to 2069

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we highlighted Let's Do Coffee, a podcast produced by NAIT's Mawji Centre for New Venture and Student Entrepreneurship. We also talked about NorthwestFest, Edmonton’s international documentary festival, which runs May 2 to 12 at Metro Cinema. Use the discount code APN2019 to get 10% off any general admission ticket except for opening night.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

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Bike swap

• Alberta Bike Swap returns with family-friendly addition

Juno Awards

• After almost 20 years, Edmonton will once again host Canada's Juno Awards

Garden life

• Edmontonians invited to "Live the Garden Life" during the Year of the Garden 2022

State of the City

• Mayor slams province, praises region, in State of the City address
• Edmonton Mayor Sohi blasts province in state of city address
• Mayor Amarjeet Sohi State of The City 2022 (PDF)

Transit safety

• Sohi says latest LRT attack 'really scares people away' from transit, asks for provincial help
• CTLA news release

Tax increase

• Edmonton heads toward tough budget with steep tax increases or deep service cuts
• Edmonton considers spending millions more on snow clearing

Blatchford

• Edmonton councillor concerned about pace, affordability of Blatchford development

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we highlighted Inventures 2022, where you can Learn, share, and be inspired by the startups, entrepreneurs, investors, and global thought leaders who are redefining the future. We also talked about Alberta Blue Cross, which makes group coverage for small businesses easy.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

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65 Avenue Interchange

• New interchange to create jobs, attract investment

Chiarelli

• Oilers fire GM, president of hockey operations Peter Chiarelli

Photo Radar

• Edmonton photo radar tickets dropped 28% in 2 years: city

Commonwealth Walkways

• Council Report
• Princess Royal unveils Edmonton River Valley Tribute to the Queen

LRT Elevators

• Closed LRT station elevator frustrates Edmonton parents with stroller
• Facebook comments

Open Data & FOIP

• City staff argue provincial law prevents sharing open data on deadly collisions
• Elise Stolte: Stuck again. Getting answers from the City of Edmonton shouldn't be this hard

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we highlighted the Edmonton Community Foundation, which "acts as a bridge between donors and charities to create a strong, vibrant community for generations to come." We also talked about Perch, the podcast by ATB Financial that "connects with the experts, influencers, and big thinkers who are shaping our province."

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

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Wild pigs

• 'Full hog': Edmonton could become first Canadian city with permanent wild pigs if city is unprepared, expert warns

Pothole complaints

• City of Edmonton seeing 3 times more pothole complaints than last year

Mask bylaw

• PSA - Edmonton ends masking in public spaces
• City of Edmonton tweet
• Alberta lifting almost all remaining COVID-19 restrictions March 1
• Edmonton council to debate mask bylaw Tuesday afternoon
• Bill 4

Metro Line LRT

• Mass Transit: Planning for 1.25 Million People
• North LRT back on priority list
• Edmonton's Metro Line LRT expansion to Castle Downs reinstated

Downtown CRL

• Mack's tweet
• Parkade and pedway decisions seem to contradict City Plan

Alcohol in parks

• Alcohol in Edmonton parks allowed again this year

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we highlighted YourForest, a podcast about the natural world featuring stories about the environment, renewable resources, conservation, forestry, and more. We also talked about ATB Cares which makes it easy to donate to eligible Albertan charities with ATB matching 20% of every dollar donated.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

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New Kitten

• Atlas & Addie on Tik Tok

Noisy Speeding

• Edmonton police cracking down on traffic noise and speeding

University Growing?

• Incoming University of Alberta president wants 10,000 more students by 2025

Cannabis & Libraries

• Edmonton library will go to court over distance between cannabis stores and branches

Relaunch Updates

• A number of changes as City continues to phase relaunch plans

Capital Budget

• Council Roundup: May 22, 2020
• Adjustments
• Subsequent motions
• Iveson warns of possible in-year cuts to $2.8-billion infrastructure plan for 2020 without help from senior governments
• Mike Nickel's tweet
• Budget in the time of COVID-19: Edmonton council ponders project priorities
• Council approves $12.7-million city hall grounds renewal project despite concerns over finances
• Mike Nickel's tweet

Economic Recovery

• Council Roundup: May 22, 2020
• City unveils Economic Recovery Program to support local businesses
• Edmonton launches $5.3-million grant program to support business recovery amid COVID-19 pandemic
• Coronavirus: City of Edmonton announces economic recovery program for businesses
• Road to recovery: Edmonton launches $5M grant program to help business

Ward Boundaries

• Council Roundup: May 15, 2020
• Report and maps
• Council approves $12.7-million city hall grounds renewal project despite concerns over finances
• Edmonton's 2021 election could turn into a horse-race with new Ward boundaries
• Keith Gerein: New ward map offers a boost to suburban south, conundrum to incumbents

NHL Hub City

• NHL announces plans to return to play; could Edmonton play host?
• Canada's quarantine restrictions significant hurdle for 3 cities hoping to be NHL 'hubs'

Speak to us!

• Voicelink.fm

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we talked about Straight from the CPA's Mouth, a new podcast series from Alberta’s Chartered Professional Accountants, which explores topics ranging from "leadership skills and achieving career potential, to financial literacy and how to make your tax refund bigger." We also highlighted Inventures Unbound which runs June 3-4 online. The conference promises live-stream experiences, expert content, pitch events, and the chance to "engage in a vital, growing community of innovators, investors, and service providers."

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

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News anchor

• Global Edmonton names Scott Roberts new co-anchor of Global News Hour at 6

Edmonton Marathon

• Edmonton Marathon 2022 attracts over 3,000 participants

Gateway Boulevard

• Construction leads to lane reductions on Gateway Boulevard

Walterdale Bridge art

• News Release: Update on public art intended for Walterdale Bridge
• Speaking Municipally: Episode 132

Scona Pool

• Edmonton councillors vote to permanently close Scona Pool
• City of Edmonton plans to close Scona Pool permanently, report shows
• Agenda item
• 2018: Strathcona residents lobby Edmonton council for new pool
• Rollie Miles Recreation Centre

Edmonton Ski Club

• Edmonton Ski Club gets support from city councillors for $800K to stay open
• Agenda item

Vehicle noise

• City of Edmonton to explore stiffer penalties, other options to combat noisy vehicles
• Edmonton city committee moves forward on cracking down on excessive vehicle noise
• Excessive vehicle noise could earn you a ticket in Red Deer thanks to updated bylaw, new detectors
• Petition: Motor Vehicle Enthusiasts Aren't the City of Edmonton's Bank

Curbside space

• Street parking overhaul gets go-ahead from Edmonton councillors
• Committee approves long-term plan to update curbside space in Edmonton
• Agenda item

Pesticide ban

• Edmonton councillors shelve pesticide ban, demand better weed control

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we highlighted Alberta Blue Cross, which offers group benefit plans that enable employees to manage their own health, dental, life and disability coverage online. We also talked about The Well Endowed Podcast from the Edmonton Community Foundation which explores the impact of passionate people who are working to make Edmonton a strong, vibrant city to live in. Episode 128 features Ahmed Ali, AKA Knowmadic.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Anne Stevenson

• @edmonton_anne on Twitter

Zoning Bylaw

• Zoning Bylaw Renewal
• Principles and Approach
• Admin Presentation
• History of Zoning in Edmonton

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we highlighted Unit B Coworking, a multi-company coworking space located in the historic McKenney Building on 104 Street focused on helping people pursue their passions and making Edmonton its creative best. We also talked about the Edmonton Community Foundation which acts as a bridge between donors and charities to create a strong, vibrant community for generations to come.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Kirsten Goa

• @kirstengoa on Twitter
• Kirsten Goa on LinkedIn

Funicular

• Funicular closed for three weeks to fix cold weather-related issues

Photo Radar

• Canada Post strike delaying Edmonton photo radar violations

U of A Parking Tickets

• From $10 to $100: Parking tickets at University of Alberta set to skyrocket

Childfriendly Cities

• Child Friendly Edmonton
• Child Friendly Edmonton Symposium Panel Discussion

Budget Hearing

• Thrive YEG
• Eastglen residents rally to save pool
• Strathcona residents lobby Edmonton council for new pool

Downtown Parking Revenue

• Parking revenue for downtown Edmonton hasn’t panned out
• Mack's tweet thread
• Jennifer Keesmaat's tweet

Safe Injection Sites

• Tristin Hopper's tweet
• Online tirade over needles in Edmonton yard prompts debate on supervised injection sites

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we talked about Park Power, a provider of electricity and natural gas in Alberta that offers low rates, awesome service, and profit-sharing with local charities. We also highlighted We Are Alberta, a podcast hosted by ATB econo​mist Nick Ford who explores Alberta’s geography, its businesses, organizations, and its diverse and fascinating people—all viewed through an economic lens.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

In the summer season closer, Troy and Mack speak with Livia Balone, the director of Zoning Bylaw Renewal at the City of Edmonton.

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Fear mongering

• EPS may be spreading fear with remarks about violence downtown: criminologist

Law citation

• Law society issues citation to another former Alberta justice minister

Smoke show

• Summer of smoke among the worst on record for Alberta's biggest cities
• Here's how many hours of smoke Edmonton's had this year

Guest: Livia Balone

• LinkedIn

Zoning Bylaw Renewal

• Updating the zoning Arugulations (Repeating Municipally)
• Missing the forest for the mature trees
• Opposition to zoning bylaw renewal draws writer into the fray
• Zoning Bylaw Renewal Initiative

This episode was sponsored by the Edmonton Community Foundation, which provides support to the city's shakers, movers, and doers. Check out The Well Endowed Podcast for stories about ECF's donors and grantees, and all the ways they use this support to build and sustain social initiatives, empower youth, strengthen arts and culture, and so much more.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Education Requisition

• Edmonton decides to keep property tax increase at 2.6%
• Council Roundup: April 12, 2019

Prairie Sky Gondola

• Edmonton council endorses next step for private gondola dream

Bonnie Doon Redevelopment

• Council OKs rezoning Bonnie Doon site for major development

1993 Election

• 1993 Alberta general election
• Twenty years since Alberta’s epic 1993 election

90s Cutbacks

• Klein’s policies got us into this mess: Budget cuts of 1990s did lasting damage
• Lakritz: Please, not a return to Klein's Alberta Advantage
• Notley raises spectre of Klein-style cuts under UCP government

2019 Election

• NDP sweeps Edmonton, leaving city an island of orange in a sea of blue
• Incoming premier promises to work with Edmonton, despite city's chilly reception
• Elise Stolte: Orange Edmonton desperately needs to build bridges in this sea of blue
• Edmonton Public School Trustees doing their due diligence by asking about UCP education cuts
• 'The election is behind us': Kenney and Notley meet to transition government
• Mayor Don Iveson's statement

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we spoke about Overdue Finds, a podcast from the Edmonton Public Library that discusses all the pop culture and media that you can find at your local library. We also highlighted ATB Financial's support of Pride.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

Edmonton Unlimited CEO Catherine Warren joins us — more than a hundred episodes after her first appearance — for an update on Edmonton's innovation sector. Plus, the City of Edmonton solar rebate launches.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Grants audit

• Audit: Edmonton spends hundreds of millions on grants and subsidies without tracking results

Oilers fingers

• Edmonton Oilers fan reportedly almost bit someone's finger off during a watch party

Meat Me Downtown

• News Release: Meet Me Downtown! New campaign and vibrancy funding encourage Edmontonians to enjoy the heart of the city
• Marvin the Meatball: Internet has a field day over Edmonton's new mascot

Catherine Warren

• LinkedIn
• Episode 109

Edmonton Unlimited

• News Release: Edmonton Unlimited Achieves Milestones in 2022 Annual Report & Announces New Board Directors in Preparation for Unboxing Edmonton's Newest Innovation Destination
• Impact — Edmonton Unlimited
• The Importance of Place — Edmonton Unlimited
• Our Space — Edmonton Unlimited

Solar rebate

• News Release: City Takes Action on Budget Climate Commitments

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Goats

• Edmonton’s weed-eating goat pilot project wraps up after 3 years

Littering

• Edmonton councillor wants city to consider higher fines to curb littering

The Brick

• The Brick Officially Opened New Interactive Flagship Store in West Edmonton Mall

Chris Gusen

• @ChrisGusen on Twitter
• Chris Gusen on LinkedIn

Covering Climate Now

• Taproot joins Covering Climate Now
• Covering Climate Now - CJR
• Covering Climate Now signs on over 170 news outlets
• United Nations Climate Action Summit 2019

Glenora

• Council rejects commercial building proposed for Glenora

Energy Transition

• Energy Transition Strategy
• Energy Transition Advisory Committee

Climate Action

• Edmonton Climate Strike
• General Strike for Climate Action - Sept. 27
• Climate Justice Edmonton
• Fridays for Future Canada

Get Involved

• Climate Resiliency Home Edmonton
• Edmonton Climate Vigil - Sept. 22
• Green Drinks: Climate Politics - Oct. 9

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we highlighted the Common Ground Podcast, created by Irfan Chaudry in collaboration with Iman Bukhari to explore narratives of hate and counter-hate in Alberta. Learn more and listen to the latest episodes at macewan.ca. We also, fittingly, talked about Rural Routes to Climate Solutions, a podcast that "dives into the technology and practices that are both good for the farm and good for the climate."

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Vital Signs

• Single adults struggling to make ends meet: Edmonton Vital Signs report

HBO Filming

• HBO's The Last of Us shooting near Rice Howard Way in mid October

QR Codes

• Alberta rolls out vaccine QR codes without app, will not replace paper records

Downtown Construction

• 2013: LRT Construction Downtown: Short-term pain, long-term gain!
• Jasper Avenue construction completed after 2 years
• City of Edmonton tweet
• Brent Toderian tweet

Campaign Disclosures

• Troy's tweet thread

Housing and Police

• Housing First question
• Police racism question
• Police budget question
• Edmonton police chief contract extended to 2026
• Edmonton police chief commits to addressing crime, social disorder in city's downtown

Election Rundown

• Municipal election rundown: Oct. 6, 2021
• Voter turnout in Edmonton triples since 2017 in first two days of advance polls
• Vanessa Denman: Our ability to choose has been taken away
• NDP denies running Edmonton city council 'slate,' defends endorsements
• Ask YEG Mayoral Candidate Kim Krushell Anything
• Amarjeet Sohi: An Edmontonian Musical

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we highlighted ATB which offers "expert and practical advice in everyday banking, and investment planning expertise and management services with ATB Wealth." We also talked about Rumi which "partners with local Alberta businesses and carefully selected vendors to help deliver homeowner happiness."

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Newly minted Taproot Edmonton reporter Colin Gallant joins to talk about the demise of NextGen. Plus, budget surpluses, meetings with the premier and, of course, parking.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Colin Gallant

• Colin Gallant at Taproot Edmonton
• Meet Taproot Edmonton's new reporter

Birth control

• Alberta NDP promise free birth control if elected

DATS strike

• Strike vote 'likely' for Edmonton DATS bus drivers next week: union

Pain medication

• Children's pain reliever imports to Alberta cost $80M

Edmonton's NextGen

• Edmonton's NextGen reaches the end of the road

2022 surplus

• Edmonton finishes 2022 with $81.5M surplus

Sohi and Smith

• Edmonton mayor asks for social services funding during first meeting with Premier Danielle Smith
• Edmonton's mayor optimistic after first meeting with Alberta premier
• Edmonton City Council requests provincial support for community safety and well-being

Police attrition

• Edmonton Police Service sees jump in departing officers in 2022

Ottewell parking

• Ottewell residents fear parking pressures following neighbourhood renewal

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we talked about The Well Endowed Podcast from the Edmonton Community Foundation, which explores the impact of passionate people who are working to make Edmonton a strong, vibrant city to live in. We also highlighted Park Power, your friendly, local utilities provider in Alberta. Offering Internet, Electricity, and Natural Gas with low rates, awesome service, and profit-sharing with local charities.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

The province announces new funding for the HELP initiative that pairs social workers with police, and the city budget has been finalized so your tax bills will arrive soon.

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Talus Dome

• Talus Dome has an escape hatch after all

Spaghetti intersection

• City considers closing 'spaghetti intersection' near downtown Edmonton

Harper endorsement

• Harper's UCP endorsement falls short of inspiring

HELP funding

• News Release: Helping people in need, keeping Edmonton safe

Police Commission

• Edmonton city council moves to improve relationship, accountability with police commission
• On the agenda: Budget adjustments, police accountability, and encampment response
• April 17 agenda item

Spring SOBA

• News Release: City Council finalizes 2023 property taxes

Bike Plan

• April 17 vote

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

A conversation at the summer institute of the Canadian Housing Evidence Collaborative about what Edmonton can and should do to contribute to the alleviation of the housing crisis.

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Guests

• Joshua Evans, associate professor of human geography at the University of Alberta and director of the Affordable Housing Solutions Lab
• Eric Rice, a writer and researcher working with Taproot to better understand Edmonton's housing ecosystem

Housing links

• Canadian Housing Evidence Collaborative
• Episode 265: An Accelerated discussion on housing
• Edmonton Affordable Housing Maintenance Fund
• Protect, Enhance, Grow: Investing in Edmonton's Community Housing Sector
• 'Damned If We Do, Damned If We Don't': Examining the Municipal Problematization of Homelessness in Edmonton, Canada During COVID-19

Books

• Homelessness is a Housing Problem
• The Tenant Class

Note: The series of Q&A interviews by Rice to be published in the fall by Taproot Edmonton is made possible through funding from the Alberta Real Estate Foundation.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

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TMX

• Supreme Court dismisses B.C. case against Trans Mountain pipeline

Traffic Tickets

• Driver gets $155 ticket for licence plate covered with snow

Liquor Store Thefts

• ID scanner installed at Edmonton liquor store in wake of massive spike in alcohol thefts

In-Camera

• Tight vote shuts down proposal for third party to assess council decisions to meet privately

Parking Minimums

• City moving to scrap minimum requirements for on-site parking, leaving the choice to owners

Grandin Tower

• Edmonton city council approves another tall tower for Oliver

Keheewin Development

• City council hearing draws a crowd over Keheewin development
• New affordable housing complex in Keheewin approved
• Breaking the rules at City Hall for kids

Gondola

• Edmonton gondola backers ready to tell city councillors they ‘have the money to move forward’

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we talked about Marvel: Universe of Super Heroes, an exhibition running until Feb. 17 at the TELUS World of Science Edmonton. The show features more than 300 artifacts, costumes, props, and interactive elements that bring the Marvel Universe to life. We also played a clip for Career Moves, a professional development program supporting mid-career workers at NorQuest College.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundupevery week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

City council has declared a housing and houselessness emergency, and a judge has thrown out a lawsuit against the city's dismantling of encampments. We dig into the debate and look back at a month of encampment clearing and shelter space counting.

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Emergency declared

• Edmonton councillors approve Sohi's 'housing and houselessness emergency' declaration
• Edmonton's emergency motion: Minister McIver
• Edmonton city council's homeless emergency declaration slammed by Alberta government
• Edmonton encampments: Deputy Premier Ellis
• Amarjeet Sohi: Calling a Special Council Meeting to Declare a Housing and Houselessness Emergency
• Tim Cartmell: What's Next for Housing and Encampments?

Lawsuit dismissed

• Edmonton declares homelessness emergency, while judge scraps lawsuit against city's dismantling of encampments
• Judge dismisses lawsuit against city over clearing of homeless encampments
• Alberta court kills Edmonton homeless encampment lawsuit
• Coalition for Justice and Human Rights statement
• Edmonton looks to stop homeless encampment lawsuit before injunction request is heard
• Original email sent by Edmonton Police

Encampment clearing

• After standoff, Edmonton police move in to clear out final 'high risk' homeless encampment
• Several people arrested as police sweep 8th encampment in central Edmonton
• 'Greatly concerned': Court defers decision over Edmonton encampment removals to later in the week
• Dozens of weapons seized in encampment removals: Edmonton police share graphic images
• 'And they're back': Edmonton encampment removals continue, critics question supports

Shelter situation

• The numbers and realities of Edmonton's shelter system
• Why some homeless Edmontonians choose to camp outside the inner city

Police commission

• News Release: City of Edmonton appoints Ben Henderson as a new member of the police commission
• News Release: The Commission welcomes Coun. Wright
• Police commission meeting fuelled with outbursts and encampment talk

Rachel Notley

• Rachel Notley to step down as Alberta NDP leader

Edmonton Oilers

• GAME RECAP: Oilers 4, Leafs 2

12-ton Art

• Local business owner enlists friends on 12-ton artwork honouring Albertans

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

EE Football Team

• EE Football Team records significant financial loss in 2020

Transit Complaints

• ETS incident reports are up nearly 500 per cent and that's helpful: councillor

Drive-Thru

• United Sport and Cycle launches Edmonton Oilers playoff drive-thru store
• Episode 73: Moving forward with the regional transit recALMONDation

Guest: Stephen Mandel

• Wikipedia
• Chancellor at Concordia University of Edmonton

Edmonton Coliseum

• Episode 106: Not every surprise is Mandelicious
• Former Edmonton mayor, sports groups advocate to repurpose Coliseum
• Former Edmonton mayor pitches new sports venue for Coliseum
• Northlands Coliseum can't be repurposed, city says in Exhibition Lands implementation plan targeting short-term demolition
• Sport excellence venue pitched for Edmonton's Expo Centre

Other Mandel Stuff

• July 2009: Edmonton City Centre Airport Decision: Phased Closure
• Sept. 2010: Boxes, and more boxes, as far as the eye can see
• April 2015: Northlands Arena Strategy Committee Final Report Released

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we highlighted Natural Light Edmonton, which "provides custom-designed, luxury sunrooms, balcony enclosures, decks, patio covers, and gemstone lights." We also talked about Pandemic University's upcoming masterclass called Writing is Your Nature, which runs May 11-25. The free class was "designed to sharpen your non-fiction writing through the lens of ecology and conservation."

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

World Cup drinking

• Bars in Alberta will open early and serve alcohol during FIFA World Cup

Condo noise

• 'Inordinate' noise: Judge orders Downtown condo corp to investigate longstanding sound complaint

Valley Zoo

• Edmonton Valley Zoo could be shut down, lose accreditation without repairs: city budget

Operating budget

• News Release: Proposed operating budget focuses on maintaining services, financing transformational projects
• Proposed Operating Budget PDF
• Proposed city budget calls for 3.9% property tax hike in each of next 4 years
• Edmontonians uncomfortable with tax increases, want better snow control: city surveys

Carbon budget

• Carbon Budget PDF
• Troy's tweet thread

Urban agriculture

• Urban farmers see need for more productive regulatory environment

Downtown amenities

• City council report

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we talked about connectFirst Credit Union, "a new, brighter way to bank for all Albertans." We also highlighted Alberta Blue Cross, which offers group benefit plans that enable employees to manage their own health, dental, life and disability coverage online.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Council has decided to keep their representatives on the police commission, at least for now. Plus, we talk LRT station fare gates, EVs, bike lanes, and more.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Police commission

• Edmonton won't remove city councillors from police commission, for now
• Alberta hiring CEO for 'massive' new agency to investigate complaints against police

Fare gates

• Edmonton eyes two-year LRT fare gates pilot for Churchill and Belvedere stations
• On the agenda: Transit fare gates, affordable housing, tax forgiveness

Financial disclosures

• 'Relevant': Edmonton to make city council's financial disclosures public

ChargeStop

• Snacks, seating and super-fast charging: What to expect at Edmonton's new EV-only service station

Bike lanes and index

• An Edmonton bike lane crumbles 1 month after construction
• How the Edmonton police bike index reunites owners with stolen wheels

From the Taproot newsroom

• IDEA's new leader targets barriers that can limit housing
• Docuseries explores Edmonton communities through food
• As community leagues prepare to celebrate, more people are volunteering

Rapid fire

• Fort Saskatchewan mayor apologizes for comments about killing feral cats
• Gondek urges premier to find 'most cost-effective solution' as province reviews Green Line LRT
• News Release: New Northbound overpass on 50 Street opens to traffic, marking key project milestone

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

A new report published by a coalition of business leaders calls for nearly $500 million of investment in Edmonton's downtown. We talk with the report's authors, Alexandra Hryciw and Jason Syvixay, about the action items, and what they hope to achieve.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Guests

• Alexandra Hryciw on LinkedIn
• Downtown Revitalization Coalition
• Jason Syvixay on LinkedIn
• BILD Edmonton Metro

Downtown Investment Plan

• Downtown Investment Plan (PDF)
• News Release: DIP INTO DOWNTOWN: Solutions for Edmonton's Financial Future — Strategic Investment in Downtown (PDF)
• Opinion: Now is the time to invest in Edmonton's downtown
• Business leaders call on governments to invest in downtown Edmonton
• Housing Accelerator Fund - City of Edmonton

From the Taproot newsroom

• Housing pilot tests if connecting people can boost inclusion
• Edmonton on track to approve one garden suite a day in 2024
• How NorthwestFEARFest's boss put his life into film

Rapid fire

• Edmonton park rangers shooting plastic bullets at aggressive coyotes
• Law society to sanction former Alberta justice minister Kaycee Madu
• $7M Alberta advertising campaign against oil and gas emissions cap rolling out in 5 provinces

The 2024 Canadian Open Data Summit takes place in Edmonton on Oct. 30 and 31, with a full day of programming on Oct. 29 focused on generative AI. The event features keynotes, panels, workshops, and more. Themes for this year's event include data perspectives on the housing crisis, the power of open science, and how sharing commercial data has led to competitive advantages for businesses. Registration is now open.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Edmonton is going to have to pay much more for elections, but we can't say why without risking a $787 million settlement. Plus, we've got some news about district planning.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Property tax

• Sohi launches campaign to ask province for more municipal support
• Edmonton, other municipalities ask province to pay its property taxes
• Fair Compensation Project

Election costs

• On the agenda: Bill 20, district planning, 124 Street highrise
• The Alberta government banned electronic vote tabulators. Municipalities want it to reconsider

District plans

• News Release: District Policy and plans approved for next milestone in City's planning modernization
• New district policy, plans including 15-minute cities concept OK'd by Edmonton city council

Old Strathcona

• Whyte Avenue and Old Strathcona plans: less parking, more parks

New towers

• Mill Woods Town Centre: New grocery store, rental towers built in 2025
• Edmonton city council approves rezoning proposal for 31-storey tower on Jasper Avenue

From the Taproot newsroom

• Pedestrian-only Rice Howard Way continues into fall
• NongBu is closed but continues to shape city's food scene
• Tree expert sees ways to avoid nightmare on elm-lined streets

Rapid fire

• Alberta government drops idea of expanding liquor sales to grocers, convenience stores
• Canadian Finals Rodeo kicks off with surprise Downtown Edmonton cattle drive
• Earth's General Store closes despite crowdfunding effort to save the business

Discover Our Climate Quest, a Canadian exhibition packed with fun, interactive activities for all ages. Explore carbon capture pinball, solar panels in action, Indigenous Ways of Knowing, and much more. Level up your climate science knowledge and get inspired for our sustainable future! Opening Oct. 5 at TELUS World of Science - Edmonton! Learn more

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Alcohol Delivery

• SkipTheDishes launches alcohol delivery in Calgary, Edmonton and Fort McMurray

Golf Course Food

• Homegrown hospitality group awarded food contract at municipal golf courses

Carbon Footprint

• Edmonton diner adds carbon footprint info to menu — and red meat is the worst offender

Regional Transit

• City of Edmonton votes to join new Regional Transit Services Commission
• Edmonton city council drives regional transit forward with unanimous vote
• Edmonton and St. Albert sign recreation agreement

Free Transit

• Free Transit Edmonton
• 'More connected and more just': Coalition launches campaign for free transit in Edmonton
• 'Open and accepting of all': Coalition calls for free transit in Edmonton
• Progress Report: Free transit for all

Snow Clearing

• Changing winters demands a change in approach to Edmonton snow clearing, councillor says

City vs. Province

• Iveson warns of 'phenomenal’ red tape if province gets between municipalities, Ottawa
• Daveberta Episode 48: An urban big city agenda in Alberta. Municipally Speaking with Mack Male

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we talked about SkirtsAfire, "Edmonton’s only multidisciplinary arts festival featuring and elevating the work of women." It takes place Feb. 27 to March 8 at venues in Old Strathcona, Downtown, and Alberta Avenue. We also highlighted Inventures, "a chance to connect with the best and brightest in global innovation." The conference runs June 3-5 in Calgary and is made possible by Alberta Innovates.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundupevery week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Praise for us

• Chris On A Bike's tweet
• Lisa Brown's tweet

Wastewater counts

• Wastewater COVID-19 counts rising in Edmonton and Calgary

Iveson's new gig

• News release: Co-operators appoints former Edmonton mayor Don Iveson as executive advisor for climate investing and community resilience

Carbon tax

• Alberta legislature to debate motion calling on Ottawa to stop carbon tax increases

Downtown recovery

• Downtown Dining Week returns as workers come back to the core
• The Five-Day Workweek Is Dying
• News release: City continues to drive growth and job creation alongside economic partners

Old Strathcona parking lot

• Old Strathcona parking lot sparks debate on how Edmonton leases public lands

Vision Zero Street Lab

• Victoria Promenade survey
• Conrad Nobert's tweet
• Daniel Morin's tweet

100th Street bridge

• Conrad's tweet

Clean energy improvement program

• PSA: Applications open for Clean Energy Improvement Program
• PSA: Overwhelming response to Clean Energy Improvement Program Pilot
• Edmonton pilot program to help homeowners with green upgrades

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we highlighted ATB, which offers expert and practical advice in everyday banking, and investment planning expertise and management services with ATB Wealth. We also talked about Park Power, your friendly, local utilities provider in Alberta offering internet, electricity, and natural gas with low rates, awesome service, and profit-sharing with local charities.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Speak to us!

• Voicelink.fm

Army & Navy

• Edmontonians disappointed at loss of Army & Navy store

AGLC

• Alberta to continue with alcohol sales in takeout, delivery orders when COVID-19 restrictions ease

Snowbirds

• Snowbirds set to fly over northern Alberta this week for Operation Inspiration
• UPDATE: Capt. Jenn Casey of Nova Scotia died on Sunday when the jet she was in crashed shortly after takeoff in Kamloops, B.C.

Dog Election

• Mill Creek Off-leash Presidential Election
• Mill Creek Off Leash Dog Park President Campaign Fund
• Fetch the ballots: Meet the 9 dogs and 3 cats in ravine race for off-leash president
• Addie's Reddit AMA
• Troy's tweet
• Another tweet from Troy
• Rachel Notley's tweet

Innovation Entity

• Tech Roundup: May 12, 2020
• Council Roundup: May 8, 2020
• Mack's Twitter thread
• Council approves expanded tourism role for EEDC, could include running K-Days and other events from Northlands
• Edmonton approves new economic development entity. What does that mean for Northlands?

Relaunch

• News release: Alberta is ready for relaunch
• News release: Relaunch activities begin for the City of Edmonton
• Andrew Knack's Facebook post

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we highlighted NorthwestFest which has gone completely online. Films are streaming until May 17. We also talked about Inventures Unbound which runs June 3-4 online. The conference promises live-stream experiences, expert content, pitch events, and the chance to "engage in a vital, growing community of innovators, investors, and service providers."

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Guest: Mel Priestley

• MelPriestley.ca
• @melpriestley

Muttart Conservatory

• Muttart Conservatory to close until 2021 as city plans Gallagher Park future

Alberta Party

• Judge’s ruling overturns Mandel’s ban from running in Alberta’s 2019 election

Chickens

• Learn more about chickens in Edmonton at River City Chickens and the City's Urban Hens Program.

Liquor Stores

• Edmonton to keep 500-metre rule between liquor stores, councillors decide
• Katz Group wants a special deal for liquor store in Ice District

Royal Mayfair

• City to look at public use options for Royal Mayfair Golf Club as lease extension hangs in the air

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we highlighted Let's Do Coffee which is a production of NAIT's Mawji Centre for New Venture and Student Entrepreneurship. Each episode features an interview with a NAIT student entrepreneur or alumnus. We also gave a plug for fellow APN member The Read Along which is "a mini book club for the ears". Read more about the show at Todayville.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Tax survey

• Hold the line on taxes, 4 in 10 Edmonton residents tell city in online survey

Omicron variant

• First case of omicron COVID-19 variant confirmed in Alberta, Hinshaw says

Winter waste

• City of Edmonton hopes to avoid winter waste issues with new cart system

LRT delayed (again)

• Opening of Edmonton's $1.8B Valley Line southeast LRT delayed a third time to summer 2022
• Troy's tweet
• Valley Line Southeast LRT artworks on track to wow commuters

Hawrelak Park

• Planned three-year closure of Edmonton's Hawrelak Park starting in 2023 leaves popular festivals in limbo
• Michael Janz's tweet
• U of A chemicals destroyed by EPS in controlled detonations at Hawrelak Park

Photo radar

• Alberta government says onus will be on municipalities to prove photo radar improves traffic safety
• Alberta extends freeze on new photo radar locations, aims to reduce 'cash cow' factor
• Rachel Notley's tweet
• Don Iveson's tweet

Bike lanes

• Drivers parking on new bike lane in Garneau neighbourhood
• Paths For People wants part of Edmonton's 102 Avenue to be car-free, a city councillor moves it forward

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we highlighted Park Power, "your friendly, local utilities provider in Alberta. Offering Internet, Electricity, and Natural Gas with low rates, awesome service, and profit-sharing with local charities." We also talked about The Future Of, a podcast hosted by ATB's chief economist Todd Hirsch that "connects with leaders who share their unique insight to help you navigate into the future."

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Peter Ohm

• Tweet from @e_backstrom

Photo Radar

• More visible look for photo radar enforcement vehicles in Edmonton

Christmas Trees

• Edmonton business feels ripple effect of Christmas tree shortage

The Hamilton of it all

• Sarah Hamilton: A Changing Transit Landscape
• Sept. 21, 2017: David Staples: West Edmonton wants mass transit, but maybe not LRT

2020 Budget

• Council Roundup: November 29, 2019
• $28M needed to keep tax increase at 2.6 per cent, Edmonton report says

Kaycee Madu

• Madu cautions Edmonton council ahead of budget deliberations
• Tweet from @MichaelWalters
• Tweet from @AndrewKnack

Walters asks the question

• City of Edmonton must defend its oversized staff: councillor
• Tweet from @MichaelWalters
• Medicine Hat church 'happy to pay' carbon tax bill after UCP candidate wrongly claimed cost would be $50,000

High Level Line

• Councillors endorse $85K funding to keep High Level Line linear park dream alive
• Privately-funded river valley gondola is viable, company says in Rossdale Power Plant station reveal

Climate Change

• City accelerating action on 16 climate change initiatives, others face uncertainty under funding restraints

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we talked about A Tale of Two Weeklies, a new podcast series "that digs into the rise and fall of Edmonton’s SEE Magazine and Vue Weekly, two alt-weeklies engaged in a newspaper war that neither survived." We also highlighted The Well Endowed Podcast, a production of the Edmonton Community Foundation that explores "stories about donors, and what inspires their generosity."

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Live Show

• Speaking Municipally Live
• Councillor Sarah Hamilton
• Councillor Andrew Knack
• Startup Edmonton

Councillor Mistake

• Calgary’s Elbow Park residents win fight against rezoning application

Linda Cochrane

• City Manager to Retire from the City on December 31, 2019

Federal Election

• Alberta is blue, but what else is new?

Innovation Hub

• EEDC leased it, but will they come?
• EACOS
• YEG Innovation Compass

Tech Jobs

• Canadian tech jobs surge, but office space crunch persists

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we highlighted Park Power, "a provider of electricity and natural gas in Alberta that offers low rates, awesome service, and profit-sharing with local charities." We also talked about the latest episode of the Daveberta Podcast, which looks at what the federal election results mean for Alberta.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

Corroded cables likely means another Valley Line delay, the city goes into overtime, and the city manager announces the latest reorg.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Bill C-18

• When will Canadian news disappear from Google, Facebook? What the Bill C-18 rift means for you
• A Massive Own-Goal for the Government: Google to Stop News Links in Canada Due to Bill C-18

Farmers market

• 'We're going to look at all possibilities': Edmonton Downtown Farmers Market moving again to keep costs down

Westmount infill

• Westmount backyard caves into next-door infill site after heavy rain, highlighting tricky nature of infill construction

City reorg

• News Release: City Manager reduces number of departments, executives in move to focus on priorities

City overtime

• Audit: Edmonton staff overtime pay jumps to $39M in 2022, excluding police
• Audit report

Valley Line LRT

• June 26, 2023: NEWS RELEASE – TransEd Valley Line LRT
• Edmonton's Valley Line LRT needs to replace around 140 km of signal cable, no opening date set
• Faulty cables cause latest delay for Valley Line Southeast LRT project
• 'The buck stops here': Edmonton councillor weighs in on Valley Line LRT delays
• Major penalties in place if the Valley Line gets delayed

District energy

• City of Edmonton committee approves downtown energy project $7.7M cost overrun

Economics and equity

• Mayor's panel argues for economic benefits of equity

This episode was sponsored by the Edmonton Community Foundation, which provides support to the city's shakers, movers, and doers. Check out The Well Endowed Podcast for stories about ECF's donors and grantees, and all the ways they use this support to build and sustain social initiatives, empower youth, strengthen arts and culture, and so much more.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

The draft Public Spaces Bylaw goes to council amid plenty of opposition. We talk with Omar Yaqub of IFSSA and Cheryl Whiskeyjack of Bent Arrow about the potential impact of the bylaw on marginalized communities. Plus, the Katz Group is suing Boyle Street over a $5 million donation.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Guests

• Omar Yaqub of IFSSA | Islamic Family & Social Services Association
• Cheryl Whiskeyjack of Bent Arrow Traditional Healing Society

Public Spaces Bylaw

• Bylaw 20700 — Public Spaces Bylaw
• Edmonton proposes bylaw changes banning panhandling, megaphones and more
• Edmonton draft bylaw has rules for protests, spitting, biking on grass
• Here's what you need to know about Edmonton's proposed public spaces bylaw
• Opinion: Proposed public spaces bylaws an attack on Edmonton's marginalized
• Opinion: Bylaw would give perception of safety at expense of most vulnerable

ICE District / Boyle Street

• Katz Group launches court battle with Edmonton homeless organization over $5M donation

Rapid fire

• City of Edmonton workers join library counterparts, vote 91 per cent in favour of strike
• Ex-mayor Nenshi loathes partisan politics. He may run for NDP leader anyway
• Explore Edmonton granted one-time $6 million cash infusion from reserve funds

This episode is brought to you by Strathcona County which has launched Select Strathcona, a new investment attraction website helping site selectors, developers, investors, and businesses looking to expand — making it easier to get the right information to make the next, best investment decision.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Fire Stations

• Edmonton considers charging developers for fire stations in new communities

Green Space

• Edmonton residents win dispute with city over improvements to green space

Rebranding Grandin

• Grandin Fish 'n' Chips rebrands, drops Grandin name

Guest: Puneeta McBryan

• Twitter
• LinkedIn

Vibrancy Strategy

• Vibrancy strategy aims to support the recovery of Downtown Edmonton
• Puneeta's Twitter thread
• Edmonton's worsening opioid crisis prompts renewed calls for action
• Puneeta's tweet about the opioid crisis

Station Lands

• Qualico looking for $37M in CRL funding to move Station Lands forward
• Mack's Twitter thread

Election Rundown

• Municipal election rundown: June 17
• Coun. Mike Nickel should face censure and reprimand, integrity commissioner finds

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we talked about the SHIFT Podcast from Alberta Innovates. The podcast showcases the work being done in the province's innovation ecosystem. The June 15th episode discussed how to lay the legal foundation when starting a business with guest Paul Barbeau. We also highlighted The Well Endowed Podcast from the Edmonton Community Foundation which explores the impact of passionate people who are working to make Edmonton a strong, vibrant city to live in.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Pesticide-related offences

• City of Edmonton faces environmental charges: "The Alberta government has laid seven charges against the City of Edmonton for pesticide-related offences."

P3 for Valley Line LRT West?

• Mayor says west leg of LRT will not be built as a public-private partnership
• 'I shouldn't have said that': Edmonton mayor reveals private details about west LRT line

Edmonton not so livable

• New rankings shun Edmonton, praise Calgary, peeve capital city residents

Committee vs. Council

• City Clerk FAQ

Cannabis Retail Sales

• 1st of 2 applications to rezone land for marijuana sales heading to Edmonton council

Future of Waste Management

• City reports focus on future of waste services
• Thick skin needed to overhaul Edmonton's failing garbage system, expert says
• Reduction and/or Elimination Mechanisms of Single Use Plastics
  • "Beyond single-use plastic bags, Vancouver, in a bid to become zero-waste by 2040, became the first major Canadian city to ban plastic straws (May 2018). The city council motion also bans the distribution of foam cups and takeout containers and will come into effect on June 1, 2019."

Secondary Suites

• City expands opportunities to take advantage of the benefits of secondary suites
• Council OKs broad new rules for rentals in duplexes, small lots and row-houses

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free. Here's the August 24, 2018 edition.

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Intersection Closure

• Major downtown road closed for month as LRT construction ramps up

Iveson-Trudeau

• Prime minister to meet with mayor on visit to Edmonton Friday

Telephone Historical Centre

• Edmonton telephone museum hangs it up

State of the City

• State of the City Address
• From Edmonton's NDP stronghold, Iveson offers olive branch to Kenney government
• Facebook Live recording
• Mack's Twitter thread

Parking Regulations

• Comprehensive Review of Parking Regulations in Zoning Bylaw 12800
• Elise Stolte: Council can't ignore the massive subsidy behind 'free' parking
• Committee endorses plan to eliminate Edmonton's minimum parking requirements

Commonwealth Games

• Commonwealth Games Bid
• Edmonton confirms it won’t bid for Commonwealth Games

Dziadyk Motions

• Executive Committee: May 6, 2019

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we highlighted The Well Endowed Podcast, a production of the Edmonton Community Foundation. The podcast tells the stories of how endowment funds intersect with the community. We also highlighted Perch, a podcast produced by ATB Financial. The show connects with the experts, influencers, and big thinkers who are shaping the province.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

ECSD

• Trustees storm out as demonstrators call on Catholic schools to address racism

Hyperloop

• Proponents of Calgary-to-Edmonton magnet tube transporter seek provincial nod

Jason Maas

• Edmonton Eskimos fire head coach Jason Maas after 8-10 season

Bus Network Redesign

• 'It requires courage,' Edmonton mayor says as new bus system is scheduled to launch
• Council decides overhauled transit system to hit Edmonton streets next August

BRT/LRT

• Councillor calling for halt of Valley Line West LRT wants bus rapid transit discussion
• Transit Redesign: The LRT is Holding Us Back

Iveson in Ottawa

• Edmonton mayor plans to promote food and timber while in Ottawa

Climate Leadership

• City’s climate leadership team earns an A

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we highlighted the Marvel: Universe of Super Heroes on until Feb. 17 at the TELUS World of Science Edmonton. The exhibition features "more than 300 artifacts, including some of Marvel’s most iconic and sought-after pages, costumes, and props." We also shared the story of Hans Doef who started Blindman Brewing in Lacombe with help from ATB Financial. "Blindman is considered a veteran of Alberta's brewing industry—they were 20th on the scene. Today, there are 99 across the province."

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundupevery week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

The Title

• Edmonton's football team will now be known as the Elks

Spray Parks

• Edmonton opens 30 spray parks during heat wave
• Cuts to Edmonton's weed control budget could be reversed in June

Jets Bet

• Don Iveson pays the piper and fulfils his end of a bet with Winnipeg mayor

Agriculture Plan

• Future of farming: New plan for Edmonton region aims to grow food — and the economy

Walterdale Bridge Art

• City, arts council reviewing lack of clarity around Percent for Art program
• Walterdale Bridge Replacement FAQ - Feb. 2013
• Ken Lum: The Buffalo and the Buffalo Fur Trader
• EAC tweet in 2018

Renaming Grandin

• Edmonton joins movement to mourn residential school deaths
• Edmontonians call for name change to Grandin LRT station, removal of mural depicting residential school system
• Don Iveson's tweet
• Aaron Paquette's tweet

Public Trees

• Public Tree Bylaw proposed to help protect Edmonton's urban forest
• Edmonton to revisit proposed tree permit for construction projects after pushback from utility companies, infill groups

Election Signs

• Cheryll Watson's sign
• Municipal election rundown: June 3

Regional Active Transit

• 'Not just for cities': EMRB task force recommends more active transit across the region

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we highlighted Edmonton Community Foundation which produces The Well Endowed Podcast and "acts as a bridge between donors and charities to create a strong, vibrant community for generations to come." We also talked about ATB which "has a history of doing what's right for its clients, especially when times are tough—because ATB was Built to help Albertans."

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Game seven wasn't meant to be. That means that this is a boring politics podcast again and not a sports podcast. This week we discuss district plans, solar rebates, Warehouse Park, and the Edmonton Bike Park.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Game 7 downtown

• Oilers fall short of history as Panthers win Game 7 to capture 1st Stanley Cup title
• Edmonton businesses close early to let staff watch Oilers in Game 7
• 6 arrests made at Oilers Stanley Cup Game 7 watch party
• What impact has Rogers Place had on downtown Edmonton?
• E-scooter operators introduce cognitive test among features aimed at addressing critics

District policy and plans

• Is Edmonton council 'normalizing' the 15-minute city conspiracy theory?
• Stephanie's tweet
• Edmonton council passes district policy, clarifies freedom of movement amid 15-minute cities fears
• Edmonton promises residents 'freedom of movement' to calm concerns around 15-minute cities
• City councillor addresses concerns about Edmonton's district planning

Solar rebates

• News Release: Reopened solar rebate program gives multi-family buildings sustainability boost
• The exponential growth of solar power will change the world

EPCOR

• Golf courses, cemeteries, City of Edmonton properties need to start paying stormwater bills, Epcor says

Warehouse Park

• News Release: Transforming parking lots to paradise: Warehouse Park Project in downtown Edmonton to begin construction

Edmonton Bike Park

• Edmonton Bike Park
• Big News! RPFIP Awarded for the Edmonton Bike Park Project

From the Taproot newsroom

• Shiddy's and Flat Boy unite on Happy Beer Street
• Entrepreneurs work to build Edmonton's padel community
• Taproot Edmonton roundups

Rapid fire

• Alberta to opt out of federal dental plan by 2026: Premier Smith
• Boston Pizza Comforts Grieving Hockey Fans With Free Pizza
• PSA: 2024 property taxes due June 30

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Duncan Kinney

• @duncankinney
• Progress Alberta

Holowach Tree

• A tree in downtown Edmonton needs a little love for its 100th birthday

Edmonton Ninja

• Meet Quinnja, Edmonton's elite ninja

Taste of Edmonton

• Taste of Edmonton hopes to reduce waits and waste with mobile tickets

Housing Definitions

• Spectrum of Housing
• CoE: Glossary of Housing Terms

Affordable Housing

• Affordable Housing Strategy
• Edmonton Housing Affordability Snapshot
• EndPoverty Edmonton: Affordable Housing

City Involvement in Affordable Housing

• History
• A Place to Call Home: Edmonton's 10 Year Plan to End Homelessness
• CoE Housing Programs
• homeEd
• Cornerstones

Shovel Ready

• Shovel Ready
• Feb. 25, 2019: Edmonton mayor asks province, Ottawa for $1.1B for affordable housing
• Mar. 15, 2019: Housing money falls short, Edmonton councillor says of provincial-federal offer

Slumtown

• CBC Podcasts: Slumtown

Beyond Edmonton

• Calgary Housing Company
• Calgary: 'I take no joy in this': Council approves $60-million in budget cuts, 115 job losses
• National Housing Strategy: A Place to Call Home

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we highlighted The Well Endowed Podcast, a production of the Edmonton Community Foundation. The podcast explores the impact of passionate people who are working to make Edmonton a strong, vibrant city to live in. We also talked about Unit B Coworking, a multi-company coworking space focused on helping people pursue their passions and making Edmonton its creative best. This episode was recorded in Unit B's studio!

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

Council is on summer recess until Aug. 19. Speaking Municipally will be on break until Aug. 16 when we'll return to talk about what happened during the summer. Plan your summer calendar with our 2019 guide to summer festivals and events!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Bike Registry

• Edmonton police launch registry to find lost bikes

EXPO Centre Bees

• Abuzz atop the Expo Centre: Urban beekeeping expands

Autonomous Robots

• After autonomous lawn mowing, Edmonton looking to remove snow on trails

Zoning for Housing

• 'It's a crisis': City hopes to combat homelessness by removing affordable housing barriers in zoning bylaw
• Bylaw change relaxes rules for supportive housing in Edmonton

SafeCityYEG

• SafeCityYEG
• Crowdsourced online tool SafeCityYEG maps 'safe' and 'unsafe' areas of Edmonton
• City officials defend online crowd-sourcing map to address gender-based violence as concerns swirl over misuse
• Don Iveson's tweet

TOD

• Future unclear for stalled Station Pointe development in Edmonton’s northeast
• Elise Stolte: Reality check required as court-ordered trustee takes over Station Pointe's only development
• GUNTER: Edmonton's lousy record of trying to jumpstart transit-oriented development
• Elise Stolte: Has Edmonton’s creative spark died? Bland plans demand a new approach for Exhibition Lands and Rossdale

Vision Zero

• Collisions on Edmonton streets trending in right direction: city report

Slumtown

• Fights in the alley, sex on the lawn: Welcome to Slumtown

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we highlighted The Wellness Summit coming up on Oct. 10 from Alberta Blue Cross. The event is "a day to explore fresh perspectives and practices around wellness." We also talked about Unit B Coworking, located in the historic McKenney Building downtown on 104 Street. Thanks to Unit B for the shoutout on Twitter!

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

Coun. Sarah Hamilton has announced she will not seek re-election in the fall. We also discuss the pride flag issue between CSU52 and the Edmonton Public Library, transit safety and sounds, efforts to diversify Edmonton's trade beyond the United States, and why statues keep getting stolen.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Sarah Hamilton

• Coun. Sarah Hamilton's post
• Interview on Real Talk with Ryan Jespersen

Pride flags

• CSU52: Statement Re: EPL Directive to Remove Pride Flags from Public Areas
• Edmonton Public Library: No Directive to Remove Pride Flags
• Union says Pride flags banned at Edmonton libraries, library disputes claim

Transit safety

• Despite record ridership, many Edmontonians still don't think transit is safe, report shows
• Report recommends more peace officer presence at Edmonton transit stations

Transit sounds

• Artist creates sound experience at Edmonton transit centre
• Edmonton Arts Council | Sendero a lo Próximo (Path to the near)

Expanding trade

• Economic developer helps companies move export sights off U.S. and onto Japan, Mexico, Middle East

Stolen statues

• Statue of women's rights activist Emily Murphy vanishes from Edmonton park named after her
• Cut at the ankles: another statue goes missing from an Edmonton park
• 'Please bring them back': Plaques honouring First World War soldiers stolen from cemetery

From the Taproot newsroom

• Edmonton 'still not ready' as 2024 population growth exceeded even breakneck forecast: Knack
• Pouring a double: Trade mission to Japan and Cocktail Week boost beverage industry

Rapid fire

• Commonwealth Stadium field could be renamed Play Alberta Field
• Should Edmonton have an official bird? Voting underway to pick favourite flyer

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, the most reliable source of intelligence about what's happening in the Edmonton region. Through curiosity-driven original stories, tailored and useful newsletters, a comprehensive and innovative events calendar, and thought-provoking podcasts, we inform, connect, and inspire a more vibrant, engaged, and resilient Edmonton region.

Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

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Cabinet shuffle

• Premier announces Cabinet changes

Taxi fares

• Fuel price hikes could prompt increase to Edmonton taxi rates

Passport lineups

• Albertans are camping outside Canada Place as early as 1:30 a.m. to get a passport

Police stuff

• News Release: Improving public safety in Edmonton: Joint news release
• City council votes to create business plan for downtown Edmonton safety initiative
• Police commission member recruitment underway

Encampment strategy

• Edmonton looking into pilot for small, city-sanctioned homeless encampments
• Surge in Edmonton's homeless camps likely this summer but staff don't recommend city-run encampment
• City looking at different options to address increase in homelessness in Edmonton

Affordable housing

• News Release: City exceeds affordable housing targets, lays out next steps for future investments
• City of Edmonton exceeds affordable housing targets

Mansions tax

• Edmonton councillor wants mansion tax, city studies progressive taxation
• It's time for a Mansions Tax

Valley Line Southeast LRT

• Valley Line Southeast LRT extension on track for summer opening, no date set: TransEd
• April 2009: Edmonton's LRT now extends to South Campus

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we highlighted The Well Endowed Podcast from the Edmonton Community Foundation. Episode 125 scratches the surface of Edmonton's history with racism. We also talked about Park Power, your friendly, local utilities provider in Alberta. Offering Internet, Electricity, and Natural Gas with low rates, awesome service, and profit-sharing with local charities.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Re/Max Field

• Edmonton's baseball stadium is getting its long-awaited glow up

Stalled Stampede

• Dropping demand for first doses could stall Alberta's reopening plans, Kenney says

Mosquito Traps

• Chart of the week: Fighting the bite

Renaming Grandin

• Edmonton city council votes to rename Grandin LRT station, cover mural of bishop
• Orange goes up over Grandin mural at Edmonton LRT station
• 'Co-creation' process launched to find new name for Edmonton's Oliver community

Arc Smart Fare

• News Release: Arc Card unveiled; Smart Fare machines turned on for pilot testing
• Arc (formerly Smart Fare)
• Tap on, tap off: Edmonton region to pilot Arc smart fare transit payment this summer
• June 25, 2019: Smart fare machines finally installed on select Edmonton buses

Flight Attraction

• City of Edmonton commits almost $10M to help airport attract flights
• 'Vitally important' regional air travel network expanding as B.C. airline announces new and reinstated flights
• Council approves almost $10 million to help Edmonton International Airport over three years

Capital Budget

• City of Edmonton recommends $65.5M capital budget increase

News Media

• Here's something city council can do right now to support local journalism – Taproot Publishing
• How New York City Is Saving Its Local News Outlets

Election Rundown

• Municipal election rundown: June 10, 2021

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we talked about Rümi, the newest member of the ATCO family. With services available in Calgary and Edmonton, Rümi partners with local Alberta businesses to help deliver homeowner happiness. We also highlighted Is This For Real?, a podcast about various facets of Black life in Edmonton. The first season, Breaking the Blue Wall, is hosted by Oumar Salifou and centres around policing issues in Edmonton.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Transit Updates

• PSA - ETS adjusts bus service based on rider feedback

Waste Collection

• Edmonton working to fix issues with new waste collection program after thousands of homes missed

Kingsway Mall

• Courtney Theriault's tweet

Sanction Hearing

• Councillor Mike Nickel to face third sanction hearing in the past year
• Edmonton city councillor escapes public censure for breaking code of conduct
• Mack's tweet
• Troy's tweet
• Another Troy tweet
• Nickel's response

Reimagine Services

• City of Edmonton taking a swing at privatizing golf course operations, council approves moving ahead on 16 recommended 'reimagine' actions
• No fees for parking at city facilities, Edmonton councillors decide

Airport Support

• Regional organizations raise $14.9M to help EIA attract flights

High-Speed Rail

• Race to build high-speed Calgary-Edmonton rail on with second pitch

Fringe Festival

• Join Us for Together We Fringe: A Fringe Theatre Event

Election Rundown

• Municipal election rundown: July 8, 2021
• Troy's tweet

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we talked about the Alberta Association of Optometrists which represents almost 800 Doctors of Optometry in over eighty communities across the province. Alberta Health coverage is available towards your urgent eyecare appointment! We also gave a Pod Power shoutout to Overdue Finds, a podcast from the Edmonton Public Library featuring conversations about books, movies, music, pop culture and other great things happening in Edmonton.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

We have a third mayoral candidate as Coun. Tim Cartmell finally confirms he's running for mayor. And in a surprising announcement, Chief Dale McFee has announced his retirement from EPS, effective Feb. 21, 2025.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Cartmell running for mayor

• Is Tim Cartmell the Next Mayor of Edmonton?
• Edmonton Coun. Tim Cartmell running for mayor with new political party

McFee retiring

• Chief McFee retires from the EPS
• Province to appoint more members to Edmonton Police Commission

Old RAM

• Edmonton developer, architect push to save Old Royal Alberta Museum

Housing figures

• News Release: City exceeds housing supply targets in record-breaking year for new housing starts and building permits
• Why Edmonton may need to focus on renters as it stares down 'peak home ownership'

From the Taproot newsroom

• Housing Complex
• Taproot presents: A conversation about housing

Rapid fire

• Former Edmonton city councillor Tony Caterina running for mayor
• WestJet announces summer schedule, Edmonton to see 23% seat capacity increase
• Boissonnault out of cabinet after shifting claims about Indigenous heritage

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

No Herbicides

• Spray no more: City of Edmonton asking residents not to use herbicides reacity parks to combat outbreak of weeds

Bridge Appreciation

• Seniors group shows appreciation for 170 Street pedestrian overpass replacement project

Re/Max Turf

• Re/Max Field in Edmonton, Alberta, nothing to envy to the new Globe Life Field in Texas

Summer Break

• City council heads into summer break following several contentious decisions

Transit Loitering

• Loitering tickets will no longer be handed out at Edmonton transit facilities

Funicular Troubles

• Extreme temperatures close Edmonton's 100 Street Funicular
• City of Edmonton tweet
• The Great Heatwave of 2021
• June 2021 Review
• 2017: Edmonton launches $24-million river valley funicular
• 2016: Edmonton river valley funicular on time and on budget

Population Growth

• Chart of the week: Edmonton's future population growth

Drone Delivery

• Drone delivery service set to take off at Edmonton airport

Speed Limits

• News Release: 40 km/h default speed limit coming to Edmonton August 6 to make our streets safer
• 40 km/h speed limit for residential, downtown Edmonton roads comes into effect Aug. 6
• Hit the brakes: Edmonton's 40 km/h default speed limit starts Aug. 6
• Interactive Speed Map
• Estimated Time of Arrival Tool

Election Rundown

• Scott Johnston's tweet
• Municipal election rundown: July 15, 2021

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we talked about AlbertaBETTER, a podcast by the Business Council of Alberta that "is on a journey to understand what it takes to create a good life here in Alberta and how we, as Albertans, businesses, and governments, can shape our society so everyone prospers." We also talked about SHIFT by Alberta Innovates, a podcast that "showcases the work being done in the province's innovation ecosystem -- everything from health to clean energy."

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

ESO

• Edmonton Symphony Orchestra musicians set to serenade boaters on a lake on Canada Day

High School

• Most Edmonton high schools switching to quarterly system next year

Homophobic Tweet

• Eskimos release receiver Christion Jones for posting homophobic tweet

E-Bike Rebates

• Edmonton backpedals on e-bike rebate program
• Edmonton city council to reconsider e-bike rebate if motion passes
• E-bike rebate program sells out in days
• News Release: City launches environment rebates to help stimulate economy
• Mike Nickel's tweets
• Energy Transition Strategy Update

Andrew Cowan

• Twitter
• Northern Chicken

EPSB Redux

• School resource officer program to stay in public schools until at least September

Affordable Housing

• City votes to sell land to Homeward Trust to build housing to help end homelessness
• Don Iveson's tweets
• Mike Nicke's tweets

Speak to us!

• Voicelink.fm

Speaking Municipally is a member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported. This week we talked about Shift, a podcast from Alberta Innovates that "showcases the work being done in the province’s innovation ecosystem - everything from health to clean energy." We also highlighted World on Fire, a new five part series from CBC Edmonton that "takes you to the front lines of out of control wildfires in Canada, Australia, and California."

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

Council votes to open 102 Avenue to vehicle traffic before (after?) the one-year pilot even got underway. But don't worry, the pedway is doing fine.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Hawrelak Park

• Last Edmonton festival wraps up ahead of 3-year Hawrelak Park closure

TransEd testing

• TransEd testing 'emergency scenario' along Valley Line LRT Thursday

Tipping

• Canadians think tipping is 'getting out of control,' new poll suggest

102 Avenue

• On the agenda: Core services, 102 Avenue, and a $31M pedway
• Edmonton will reopen 102nd Avenue to traffic after city council votes down bylaw
• Public Hearing on Feb. 21
• Section of 102 Avenue in downtown Edmonton will remain open to vehicles

103A Avenue Pedway

• No debate: Edmonton council approves $4.5M more for pedway, finalizes separated waste pick up for apartments

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we talked about Park Power, your friendly, local utilities provider in Alberta. Offering Internet, Electricity, and Natural Gas with low rates, awesome service, and profit-sharing with local charities. We also highlighted The Well Endowed Podcast from the Edmonton Community Foundation, which explores the impact of passionate people who are working to make Edmonton a strong, vibrant city to live in.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Big Bin Events

• PSA: Free Big Bin Events are back

Mosquito Control

• Edmonton helicopter program to control mosquito population reinstated for 2021 season

Best. Summer. Ever.

• News Release: New COVID-19 restrictions to stop the spike

Guest: Adam Laughlin

• LinkedIn
• Adam Laughlin, P. Eng, DCM, father, feminist

Interim City Manager

• Dec. 13, 2019: Adam Laughlin named Interim City Manager
• Nov. 20, 2020: Senior civil servant with long military career hired as Edmonton's new city manager

2021 Construction

• News Release: City construction contributes to 13,000 jobs
• City of Edmonton anticipates $400M gap in provincial infrastructure funding
• Delayed Valley Line Southeast LRT tracking toward late 2021 opening as part of city's $1-billion 2021 construction season

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we highlighted Pandemic University's upcoming masterclass called Writing is Your Nature, which runs May 11-25. The free class was "designed to sharpen your non-fiction writing through the lens of ecology and conservation." We also talked about Shift by Alberta Innovates, a podcast that "showcases the work being done in the province’s innovation ecosystem -- everything from health to clean energy." A recent episode featured Garth Warner, president and CEO of Servus Credit Union.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

This week, OP12 returned and council appears to be a bit more bearish on the idea. Plus, we learn more about the bike routes being built in 2024, and there are six rezonings testing the limits of the new zoning bylaw.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

NASH

• Stephanie's post with fellow presenters
• Stephanie's post about getting your first job in journalism

OP12

• Report offers council service cuts and new fees to meet OP12 goals

George Spady

• George Spady looks to relocate detox program to Jasper Place
• Edmonton detox unit moving; supervised consumption site future unknown

Bike lanes

• Ten routes mark first bike projects from $100M investment

E-scooters

• E-scooter operators remain bullish on Edmonton region

Rezonings

• On the agenda: OP12, George Spady, six rezonings

Explore Edmonton

• Explore Edmonton granted one-time $6 million cash infusion from reserve funds

Rapid fire

• Romance novel boom spurs new bricks-and-mortar bookstores in Alberta
• Edmonton Valley Zoo announces additions to wolf pack ahead of Family Day
• EndPovertyEdmonton's Funding Reduced by Edmonton City Council

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

There's a new task force on housing and homelessness. Plus, everything is a district, recreation centres will soon be sponsored, and we discuss police accountability.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Housing task force

• Edmonton mayor names 16-member task force to tackle housing and homelessness
• State of the City

Clean energy retrofit

• Edmonton finalizes clean energy retrofit loans program
• Lauren Boothby's thread

Police accountability

• Edmonton mayor disturbed by images of police response to pro-Palestinian protesters
• Message to the U of A community: Update on encampment
• Protesters attend Edmonton city hall meeting after police teardown of U of A pro-Palestine camp
• Disruptive meeting could trigger security changes at Edmonton city hall
• Tweet about commission meeting

Districts

• Rice Howard Way to become Edmonton's new entertainment district
• Downtown Edmonton 'education district' could spur revitalization, school leaders say
• Experience Edmonton's Arts District
• 2015: Coffee Bureau and Lock Stock Coffee have revived Edmonton's coffee district

Naming rights

• Edmonton's Terwillegar rec centre to get a new, sponsored name
• 2022: Jumpstart Inclusive Playground now open in Edmonton

Rapid fire

• PSA: Have fun in the sun in Edmonton's spray parks, opening this weekend
• News Release: New EPark App launches today
• Canada's 100 Best restaurants list snubs Edmonton; three bars crack top 50

See us in person!

• May 21: Don't let the pink slime get you: AI's role in a healthy media ecosystem at Work Nicer Beaver House.
• May 25: Edmonton International Cat Festival at the Robbins Health Learning Centre at MacEwan.
• May 30: Speaking Municipally Live: Untangling the housing knot at the Foundry Room.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

No holiday

• Sept. 19 declared a provincial day of mourning

Thanks Dave

• Dave Cournoyer's Valley Line LRT joke

Federal Building

• Honouring Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

Regional transit

• Regional transit takes another step forward with Edmonton's continued support

Supportive housing

• New Edmonton supportive housing complexes ready for tenants but remain vacant
• Mack's tweet
• Edmonton police get $10.3M boost with new Chinatown safety hub

Single-use plastics

• Public hearing on Edmonton's proposed single-use plastics bylaw postponed until October

Funding parks

• New funding scheme aims to make park development more equitable

Voting data

• Group of 7: Here are the Edmonton councillors who are winning the most votes at city hall

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we talked about Alberta Blue Cross, which offers group benefit plans that enable employees to manage their own health, dental, life and disability coverage online. We also highlighted Park Power, your friendly, local utilities provider in Alberta. Offering Internet, Electricity, and Natural Gas with low rates, awesome service, and profit-sharing with local charities.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Jane Goodall

• Jane Goodall reverses stance, says Lucy the elephant should stay in Edmonton

Feeding Wildlife

• Edmonton councillors endorse wildlife feeding restrictions on private and public property to reduce coyote interactions

GraceLife Church

• GraceLife pastor held in custody for refusing to comply with bail conditions

Urban Gondola

• Troy's Twitter thread
• Episode 99: The Gon-bananas-a plan
• Edmonton engineers, business leaders high on proposed river-valley gondola project
• A River Valley Gondola - Tourist Attraction or Blight on the Landscape? - Tim Cartmell
• From 2018: Gondola could be temporary fix for transit down Whyte Avenue, councillor suggests

Edmonton Police

• Edmonton mayor to request review after police eject group from LRT station
• Media Statement - City of Edmonton statement - LRT station incident
• Edmonton Police Twitter thread
• Policy C620 - Supporting Vulnerable People During Extreme Weather

Safe Passing Distance

• City committee endorses rules for passing cyclists on the road

School Boards

• An Announcement and a Call to Action | by Bridget Stirling

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we highlighted Career Essentials, a new podcast from techlifetoday.ca and NAIT that "offers real-world advice and insight into different careers and career paths" by featuring stories of NAIT alumni. We also talked about Searching for Izena, "a special nine-part podcast series chronicling the wildly incomplete stories of female leadership at Edmonton City Hall over the last century."

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Red Brick Crosswalk

• City of Edmonton removing red brick crosswalks along 124th Street

Valley Line Construction

• Noisy nights on the way for Edmonton residents living near LRT construction

Urban Chickens

• A hen for every household? Edmonton urban chicken program starting to hatch

E-Scooters

• E-scooter roll-out not going well, grumps Mayor Don Iveson
• E-scooters on sidewalks cause headaches for pedestrians, politicians
• Standard Form Licence of Occupation for Active Transportation Vehicle Share

Bad ETS Ad

• Conrad Nobert's tweet

WEM Footbridge

• West Edmonton Mall to get temporary crossing ahead of footbridge replacement

Transit Fines

• 'A tax on poverty': Paquette to ask council to lower transit fines

Terwillegar Expressway

• Expressway a 'sweet spot' for fixing Terwillegar traffic troubles, councillor says

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we highlighted LiftFest, which runs Oct. 17-27, and specifically Author Pods which is "a series of live shows and discussions at the intersection of writing and podcasting." We also shared the Take Control campaign from Alberta Health Services which aims to help Albertans understand the many options for care.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Bloom

• AI dreams, airport innovations, and a departing founder catch Bloom's attention

HEPA filters

• Edmonton Public Schools plans to put HEPA filters in all classrooms

PureFibre X

• TELUS brings Canada's fastest Internet speeds to Edmonton

Park drinking

• Alcohol in city parks needs more study, Edmonton councillors say
• Health advocates call on Edmonton council to cut off alcohol in parks pilot program

Facial recognition

• Edmonton police using facial recognition software to search 'mugshot database'
• EPS is using facial recognition technology to identify suspects in criminal cases
• News Release: EPS implements NEC facial recognition solution to further investigations
• Facial Recognition (edmontonpolice.ca)
• Interim Report: Facial Recognition Technology in Canada
• Arizona DOT Operating Budget Requests
• Edmonton police unveil details on use of facial recognition technology
• Calgary police says it won't use social media in its AI technology
• OPS tested facial recognition software, but doesn't use it

Sohi / Kenney

• 'Too soon and too fast:' Mayor Sohi urging province to keep COVID-19 measures in place
• Edmonton has 'bare minimum needs' from province's budget: Sohi

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we highlighted Edmonton Public Schools, which is hosting virtual open houses for the 2022-23 school year. We also talked about the Boys and Girls Clubs and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Edmonton and Area, also known as BGCBigs. There's currently a need for mentors in many BGCBigs programs as well as virtual tutors who can support young people as they transition back to school.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Irfan Chaudhry joins to help us understand the state of anti-racism work in Edmonton following the end of the city's anti-racism advisory committee.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Threads

• Threads by Instagram
• Instagram's Threads: all the updates on the new Twitter competitor

Body-worn cameras

• News Release: Police body worn camera trial to begin next week

Green Shack Shows

• This free activity is happening at Edmonton parks throughout the summer
• Green Shack Shows

Irfan Chaudhry

• LinkedIn
• @irfanyeg
• Grow the Game

Anti-racism

• Mayor lauds anti-racism efforts amid acrimony

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

We interrupt your Fringe-ing to discuss proposed compensation for businesses along Stony Plain Road, a big budget shortfall and potential tax hike, transit fare increases, and the new owner of the Edmonton Elks.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Stony Plain rejection

• City council rejects grant program for Stony Plain Road businesses struggling through LRT work
• Scheduled LRT work complete on Stony Plain Road, but road to stay closed

Budget shortfall

• Edmonton budget shortfall risks bigger property tax hike in 2025, city warns

Transit fares

• Edmonton planning to hike transit fares next year to make up for $13M budget shortfall

Edmonton Elks

• New Edmonton Elks owner says classic 'EE' logo to drive the team's branding
• New Edmonton Elks owner says classic 'Double E' logo to drive the team's branding

Jennifer Rice

• Court order stops misconduct sanction hearing for Edmonton Coun. Jennifer Rice until judicial review

Tim Cartmell

• Edmonton councillor wants project management overhaul, claiming delays and 'wasted dollars'

From the Taproot newsroom

• How a bison head helped change the Pioneers Cabin into the Bison Lodge
• Edmonton Global's listening tour will lead to change: Bruce

Rapid fire

• Take a Risk: It's the Most Fringe Thing You Can Do
• Back to light: The historic Western Cycle neon sign is up in Edmonton again
• Tony Caterina's comment on Facebook

This episode is brought to you by Park Power, your friendly, local utilities provider (and title sponsor of Taproot's Regional Roundup). Park Power offers electricity, natural gas, and internet to homes, businesses, and farms throughout Alberta. Learn more at parkpower.ca.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

This week, council heard about the vast majority of parking lots downtown being unpermitted.  And, true to form, they decided to do something about it later! Plus, we get the scoop on Edmonton Design Week.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Edmonton Design Week

• Edmonton Design Week 2023
• Email us your answers to the trivia questions before our next episode to be entered to win a pass to design week!

Surface parking

• Ninety per cent of central Edmonton surface parking lots do not have permits: city staff
• 2009 ABCA 65 (CanLII) | Emeric Holdings Inc. v. Edmonton (City) | CanLII
• Ashley Salvador: Unpermitted Parking Lots Shouldn't Get a Free Pass

Complete streets

• On the agenda: Surface parking lots, Metro Line to Blatchford, and funding transit growth

Transit funding

• Transit in Edmonton needs more stable funding for the future, councillors say
• On the agenda: Surface parking lots, Metro Line to Blatchford, and funding transit growth

Villeneuve Airport Area

• Sturgeon wins appeal to develop Villeneuve Airport Area

Crime conference

• Edmonton conference looks to data to determine how to tackle crime

U of A growth

• New U of A plan calls for enrolment to grow by 16K more students by 2030

Hydrogen EVs

• Danielle Smith has embraced the electric vehicle. No, not the EV you're thinking of

This episode was sponsored by Edmonton Startup Week, which returns Oct. 10-14. Five days of workshops, socials, and events building momentum and opportunity around our city's unique entrepreneurial identity, startup community, and culture of innovation! Build your schedule today.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Fitness Industry

• Potential for Massive Closures & Bankruptcies to Fitness Industry Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

Connor McDavid

• Connor McDavid staying put in Edmonton during pandemic

Education Cuts

• Schools will hire back all workers laid off during pandemic, education minister says

Corona Station

• Guest: Erik Backstrom, Senior Planner, City of Edmonton
• Erik's tweet thread
• Councillor Aaron Paquette's tweet
• Troy's tweet

EEDC CEO

• EEDC's tweet
• Business Roundup: April 3, 2020
• Cheryll Watson named one of two Canadians on Startup Genome Advisory Board

ERIN Funding

• Edmonton Regional Innovation Network
• Previously: Edmonton denied $4.2M in tech innovation funding

E-Scooters

• E-scooters returning to Edmonton streets this spring
• Ready to roll: E-scooters spring back to Edmonton, new company looking to launch
• Here's How Bird Laid Off 406 People in Two Minutes
• Kaelin's tweet
• Lime: Healthy People = Healthy Cities
• Bird: A Message To Our Riders

COVID-19: Layoffs

• Recreation centre and library closures lead to temporary layoffs
• City of Edmonton, public library laying off nearly 2,100 employees
• 'Our community is in crisis': Edmonton business survey says nearly half don't think they'll survive
• Oilers, Flames announce temporary staff layoffs linked to COVID-19 pandemic

COVID-19: Closing Streets

• Physical distancing in Alberta: a tale of 2 cities
• Don Iveson's tweet

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we talked about Park Power which has introduced flexible payment plans and options to help customers deal with the COVID-19 outbreak. We also highlighted What on EARTH can we do?, a podcast about combating climate change from the Alberta Emerald Foundation.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Red tape award

• NEWS RELEASE: City wins 2022 Municipal Excellence Award for Red Tape Reduction

UAlberta ventilation data

• University of Alberta releases building-specific ventilation data

Learning city

• NEWS RELEASE: Edmonton secures place as Canada's first UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities member
• Mayor Amarjeet Sohi's tweet

Guest: Bashir Mohamed

• @BashirMohamed
• Edmonton SRO Research Project

DNA phenotyping

• NEWS RELEASE: Police use DNA phenotyping in unsolved sexual assault
• EPS Statement on DNA Phenotyping
• Edmonton police use DNA phenotyping as 'last resort' in hopes of identifying sexual assault suspect
• Ubaka Ogbogu's tweet
• Opinion: Edmonton police wrong to release DNA phenotyping mugshot of a Black man

Single-use reduction bylaw

• NEWS RELEASE: City council passes bylaw to significantly reduce waste
• Edmonton finalizes plastic bag, disposable food container bylaw
• Edmonton restaurants grapple with proposed ban on single-use items

Rec centre naming rights

• Edmonton councillors vote to sell naming rights of Clareview Recreation Centre
• Clareview Rec Centre to be renamed Jumpstart Community Recreation Centre

EPS jurisdictional scan

• Edmonton police funding debate dominated by conflict of interest concerns
• Per Capita Police Funding
• Police funding increases could be locked in before budget talks

EPS funding formula

• Councillors consider new funding formula for Edmonton Police Service
• Mack's tweet thread

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we talked about The Well Endowed Podcast from the Edmonton Community Foundation, which explores the impact of passionate people who are working to make Edmonton a strong, vibrant city to live in. We also highlighted Park Power, your friendly, local utilities provider in Alberta. Offering Internet, Electricity, and Natural Gas with low rates, awesome service, and profit-sharing with local charities.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

In the wake of a tragic police incident, we cover other policing news that happened this week. Plus, an update on trains, and affordable housing.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Juno protester

• Topless protester who crashed Edmonton Junos stage makes brief court appearance

Alberta is calling

• News release: Alberta is calling again

ECSD fraud

• Employee defrauds Edmonton Catholic Schools of over $200K through invoice, credit card scheme

Police deaths

• Edmonton police devastated by shooting deaths of 2 officers, chief says

Body cameras

• News release: Ensuring transparency between police and public
• Body-worn cameras to be mandatory for all police officers in Alberta, province says
• Alberta to mandate police body cameras — but who's paying?
• 2021: RCMP body cameras to costs $131 million over five years: budget officer
• 2020: Edmonton police chief discusses oversight, body cams and budget with city council
• 2020: Council report on body worn video

Transit safety

• Violent crime calls on Edmonton transit up 53% in one year, police say
• Transit Camp aims to mobilize bus and LRT champions

Valley Line LRT

• Roadmap to opening infographic

Affordable housing

• News release: Edmonton submits plans for supportive housing

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we talked about Park Power, your friendly, local utilities provider in Alberta. Offering Internet, Electricity, and Natural Gas with low rates, awesome service, and profit-sharing with local charities. We also highlighted The Well Endowed Podcast from the Edmonton Community Foundation, which explores the impact of passionate people who are working to make Edmonton a strong, vibrant city to live in.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

EE Football

• Edmonton Football Team discontinues use of the name Eskimos

Kâhasinîskâk Bridge

• Edmonton on track for big, safe, vital construction season
• News Release: Construction season in full swing despite COVID-19 pandemic

Oilers Out

• Oilers GM says team needs to build on progress after again missing playoffs

Mask Exemption Cards

• Aug. 4: News Release - Four-out-of-five Edmontonians observed wearing face coverings over the long weekend
• Aug. 7: Dziadyk's tweet about the exemption cards
• Aug. 8: Mack got an exemption card
• Aug. 9: Dziadyk interviewed about the cards
• Aug. 9: Knack shares a thread on the cards
• Aug. 10: News Release - Wearing face coverings crucial in slowing the spread of COVID-19
• Aug. 10: Transport Canada says if you can't wear a mask for medical reasons, prove it — or don't fly
• Aug. 10: Paquette questions the cards
• Aug. 10: Nickel blames Iveson in tweet
• Aug. 11: News Conference - Tuesday, August 11, 2020 - City of Edmonton update
• Aug. 11: Update: Face coverings being adopted, exemption cards strike a balance: Aitken
• Aug. 12: Iveson posts a thread about compliance and indicates he has questions about the exemption cards
• Aug. 12: Statement to Councillors from Administration
• Aug. 12: News Release - City stops face covering exemption card distribution through recreation centres
• Aug. 13: Reports that AHS won't treat cards as valid
• Aug. 13: Nickel writes a letter to Iveson
• Aug. 13: News Release - City of Edmonton provides updates on pandemic recovery

Photo Radar

• Two Edmonton city councillors call for photo radar reduction
• Photo Radar Petition – Mike Nickel
• Edmonton Photo Radar - The Stats
• Photo radar in Alberta | Alberta.ca

NHL Bubble

• NHL says zero positive COVID-19 tests so far in Edmonton, Toronto bubbles
• Photo of the closure

Frank Oliver

• Vandalized Frank Oliver plaque removed, subject to review

103 Avenue

• One block of 103 Avenue in downtown Edmonton set for overhaul

Speak to us!

• Voicelink.fm

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community-supported. This week we highlighted the Edmonton Community Foundation, which "acts as a bridge between donors and charities to create a strong, vibrant community for generations to come." We also talked about Park Power, "a provider of electricity and natural gas in Alberta that offers low rates, awesome service, and profit-sharing with local charities."

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Daryl Katz

• Cha-Ching: Oilers owner Daryl Katz rises wildly on Forbes ranking of 2022 billionaires

Digital sign on 109 Street

• Return of eight-metre high 109 Street digital sign approved

Catalytic converter thefts

• Edmonton police offer $50K for solution to catalytic converter thefts

Scona Pool

• Edmonton city councillors vote to pull the plug on 65-year-old Scona Pool over safety issues
• Edmonton council eyes restoring May to September outdoor pool season

Affordable housing

• News Release: City approves new affordable housing, eclipses four-year targets

Regional transit

• Edmonton would pay $7.2 million annually for regional transit with 11 routes starting next year

Glenora rezoning

• Proposed rezoning for apartment in Glenora met with opposition

Aggregate recycling

• Edmonton council to keep aggregate facility open for now
• Union: Road costs may rise as Edmonton closes recycling site

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we highlighted the Edmonton Community Foundation which acts as a bridge between donors and charities to create a strong, vibrant community for generations to come. We also talked about Alberta Blue Cross, which offers group benefit plans that enable employees to manage their own health, dental, life and disability coverage online.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

This week, we cover transit improvements for youth and winter, more funding for snow and ice clearing, the latest on the Valley Line LRT, and tennis vs. pickleball.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Transit stuff

• Edmonton transit needs to be safer and more reliable for youth: survey
• Edmonton spent $350K to replace 1600 busted bus shelter panels last year

Snow clearing

• Edmonton mayor suggests reinjecting $5M to snow and ice budget to improve access to transit

Rally for the Road

• City funds website to help Stony Plain Road businesses amidst Valley Line West LRT construction
• Rally for the Road

Valley Line LRT

• TransEd's tweet
• Train testing complete on Edmonton's Valley Line LRT route

Voting block

• Data shows six councillors form dominant Edmonton City Council voting block

Tennis courts

• Saville Tennis Centre opens in Edmonton with year-round courts

Falling concrete

• Concrete cladding falls off downtown Edmonton building, city enacts emergency closures

Mask directive

• AHS adopts enhanced masking directive for acute care sites

Oilers loss

• GAME RECAP: Canucks 8, Oilers 1

This episode was sponsored by Coun. Michael Janz, the University of Alberta, and MADE (that's Media Architecture Design Edmonton). Curbing Traffic: An Evening with Chris Bruntlett takes place on Oct. 19 in Edmonton, with a discussion about what other places have done to build cycling cities. Tickets are $15 each, but you can get in for $5 by using the offer code TAPROOT, while supplies last.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

This week, budget season has begun. Troy and Stephanie guide you into the start of our year-end busy season, and explain how this will lead into next year's busy season, the election.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Budget

• Edmonton city council looks for cuts to lower 8.1 per cent tax hike eyed for 2025
• Edmonton city councillors question travel budgets and spending on Calgary Stampede

Election

• 9 candidates declare intention to run for Edmonton City Council

City manager

• Edmonton city council hires Eddie Robar as city manager
• Budget pressures top of mind for Edmonton's new city manager

Carbon budget

• Edmonton fails to meet climate targets 2 years after launching carbon budget
• Condo association calls green bin rollout 'rocky', while city says new habits take time

Single-use bylaw

• 500 days in, Edmonton has written 0 tickets under single-use bag, plastics bylaw

From the Taproot newsroom

• Edmonton Arts Council has a new funding strategy and leader
• Why the decline in public housing is 'the origins of Canada's housing crisis'
• Taproot presents: A conversation about housing

Canadian Podcast Awards

• Speaking Municipally is a finalist
• Karen's post on LinkedIn

Rapid fire

• City underlines successes and challenges as the Valley Line LRT turns one
• McDavid makes history with 1,000th NHL point

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Earthquakes

• Series of earthquakes in northern Alberta felt in Edmonton, Grande Prairie and B.C.
• Smith introduces flagship Alberta Sovereignty Within a United Canada Act, giving cabinet new power

Transit reality

• Edmonton bus drivers share images showing daily realities of working within public transit system

Michael Elliott

• Head of Edmonton police union stepping down: 'My mental health is more important at the moment'

Emergency shelters

• New emergency shelter spaces approved as deaths mount
• PSA: Extreme weather response activated
• 'Catastrophe of homelessness': Three dead at makeshift Edmonton shelters in early November
• Troy's tweet

Boyle Street

• City of Edmonton hears appeal of new Boyle Street Community Services building
• Boyle Street Community Services relocation plan halted by development appeal board
• 'Deeply disappointed': Development appeal board revokes permit for new Boyle Street centre
• Boyle Street targeted in racist phone calls following development dispute

Budget stuff

• Climate change raised repeatedly during budget hearing
• About 170 speakers sign up to offer wish lists for Edmonton budget during public hearing
• Transit security, recreation, Valley Zoo investment among budget asks at Edmonton council hearing
• Edmonton budget: sports and recreation, social services, transit big topics at public hearing
• Municipalities across Edmonton region face budget challenges for 2023
• Troy's tweet thread

City surplus

• City of Edmonton projects $68M operating budget surplus by end of 2022
• Mayor Amarjeet Sohi's tweet

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we talked about Park Power, your friendly, local utilities provider in Alberta. Offering Internet, Electricity, and Natural Gas with low rates, awesome service, and profit-sharing with local charities. We also highlighted Alberta Blue Cross, which offers group benefit plans that enable employees to manage their own health, dental, life and disability coverage online.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Recorded on the Valley Line Southeast LRT! We're joined by ETS branch manager Carrie Hotton-MacDonald, councillors Anne Stevenson and Ashley Salvador, new Taproot Edmonton managing editor Tim Querengesser, and several others.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Guests

• Carrie Hotton-MacDonald
• Anne Stevenson
• Ashley Salvador
• Mike Kunicki
• Tim Querengesser

New managing editor

• Meet Taproot Edmonton's new managing editor

Valley Line Southeast LRT

• Valley Line Southeast LRT opening Nov. 4
• Citizens assemble to celebrate Valley Line Southeast LRT opening

Other

• Arc card adoption reaches 63%
• Using CRL to fund office conversions seen as a gamble

This episode was sponsored by the Edmonton Community Foundation, which together with the Edmonton Social Planning Council has released Vital Signs. This year's report focuses on food security, how it has changed over the last 10 years, and where we are today. You can see the latest report at ecfoundation.org/vitalsigns.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

We follow up on the Public Spaces Bylaw, accelerating construction on the Valley Line West LRT, and the introduction of two new commissioners for the Edmonton Police Commission. Plus, the City of Leduc proposes to annex land from Leduc County, and we wrap up our Edmonton Food Faves series.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Public Spaces Bylaw

• Speakers urge city councillors to ditch proposed public spaces bylaw
• Edmontonians share concerns that public spaces bylaw targets city's most vulnerable
• Public spaces bylaw: Edmonton police officers want clear rules, advocates fear harms to vulnerable

Valley Line West LRT

• Edmonton city council approves plan to speed up LRT construction
• Edmonton fast-tracking LRT road work using full road closures
• Stony Plain Road businesses dreading expedited construction plan for Valley Line West LRT
• Major road closures planned for Valley Line LRT west this year
• On the agenda: Public spaces bylaw, Valley Line West construction

Edmonton Police Commission

• Alberta picks two new Edmonton police commissioners amid probe sparked by chief's complaint of 'bias' in city appointees
• Edmonton police asked Alberta to intervene after city council appointed two commissioners. Documents show past criticism and allegations of 'bias' drove the request.
• Mayor Amarjeet Sohi's photo

Leducsiana Purchase

• City of Leduc eyes southern boundary expansion with plan to annex nearly 2,500 hectares
• County responds to City of Leduc's intent to annex lands
• Regional Roundup: Feb. 12, 2025

Edmonton Food Faves

• EdmontonFoodFaves.ca
• Printable passport PDF
• 2022 edition
• Linda Hoang
• Sharon Yeo

From the Taproot newsroom

• Major streets set to change to give buses priority
• Upcycler helps Kuma give old tents new life
• Intercultural pop-up part of Feed the Soul's evolution

Rapid fire

• Edmonton police officers return to 6 public schools, more than 4 years after division halted program
• Enjoy the new sloth exhibit at the Edmonton Valley Zoo

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, the most reliable source of intelligence about what's happening in the Edmonton region. Through curiosity-driven original stories, tailored and useful newsletters, a comprehensive and innovative events calendar, and thought-provoking podcasts, we inform, connect, and inspire a more vibrant, engaged, and resilient Edmonton region.

Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

City council has approved an updated funding formula for the police budget. We break down what happened and what it means.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Funding formula

• Mack's tweet thread
• Final vote results
• Mayor Amarjeet Sohi: My Thoughts on the Police Funding Formula
• Coun. Andrew Knack: Edmonton Police Funding Formula (August 2023)
• Edmonton Police Commission: EPS funding formula
• 2021: Taproot Election Survey — question about police funding
• 2022: Council privately quashes recommended audit of Edmonton policing and use of city funding

National urban park

• Nov. 2021: Edmonton to move forward with exploring a potential national urban park
• Aug. 2023: Proposed national park in Edmonton's river valley moving to planning phase

Route 31

• News Release: Riders will soon have more travel options on Terwillegar Drive

Donair costume

• Edmonton-based restaurant chain wins Alberta donair costume auction

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Stephen Mandel

• Braid: Stephen Mandel joins AHS board bent on reform

Sherry Adams

• Edmonton public school trustee says 'science not settled' on human-caused climate change

Connor McDavid

• Connor McDavid plays 1st game since late-season knee injury

Downtown Towers

• Council approves 60-storey condo near Hotel Macdonald in downtown Edmonton
• Edmonton councillors approve new high-rise neighbour for Hotel Macdonald
• Fairmont Hotel Macdonald History
• TIL In 1953, a 16-storey, 300-bedroom addition was built to the Fairmont Hotel Macdonald but was later demolished in 1986
• Hotel Macdonald on Wikipedia

Calcium Chloride

• Decision on future of divisive anti-ice brine once again delayed
• Global News Investigates: Test reveals calcium chloride exceeds Edmonton bylaws; councillors not briefed

Downtown Market

• Liane Faulder: Growing solutions for downtown farmers market conundrum
• The new business of farmers’ markets in Edmonton
• Cornfusion with the 104st market location
• City Market to leave 104th Street

Aurum Road

• Northeast Edmonton roadway expansion includes underpass for wildlife
• Grand opening for bridge connecting Aurum industrial hub
• Aurum Energy Park
• Don Iveson's Tweet

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we highlighted The Well Endowed Podcast, a production of the Edmonton Community Foundation. In particular, we talked about Episode 53 which features Councillor Aaron Paquette. We also highlighted Unit B, a co-working space located on 104 Street downtown in the historic McKenney Building.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Walterdale Bridge

• Walterdale Bridge still cost Edmonton $155M, even after contractor paid damages for delays

Kim Krushell

• Former Edmonton councillor Kim Krushell running for mayor in fall election

Mike Nickel

• Edmonton city councillor Mike Nickel running for mayor in 2021 election

Andre Corbould

• Edmonton ushers in new city manager
• Mayor formally introduces new city manager

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we highlighted Searching for Izena, "a special nine-part podcast series chronicling the wildly incomplete stories of female leadership at Edmonton City Hall over the last century." We also talked about the Edmonton Community Foundation which "acts as a bridge between donors and charities to create a strong, vibrant community for generations to come."

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

A new committee of council has been born (or, at least, is in utero). Plus, Bridgegate both continues and concludes, council has approved the Nordic spa in the river valley, and the province's CorruptCare scandal (allegedly) reaches the city.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Bridgegate

• City releases schedule of Edmonton's bridge renewals for 2025
• Puneeta McBryan's LinkedIn post
• Downtown Revitalization Coalition's LinkedIn post

Infrastructure committee

• Council report
• Coun. Aaron Paquette speaks at council meeting about misinformation

Nordic spa

• Edmonton city council approves rezoning application for nordic spa development
• Top of Bank Policy
• Memorandum of Cooperation and Dialogue

CorruptCare (allegedly) reaches the city

• UCP Placed Mraiche Business Partner on Edmonton Police Commission

From the Taproot newsroom

• Hydrogen HUB enters 'activation phase' with new leader
• Varme Energy brings in CEO from Norway for first-of-its-kind facility
• Boyle Street creates artist residency to prioritize arts programming for marginalized clients

Rapid fire

• Edmonton's Emily Murphy Park statue stolen leaving nothing but her shoes

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, the most reliable source of intelligence about what's happening in the Edmonton region. Through curiosity-driven original stories, tailored and useful newsletters, a comprehensive and innovative events calendar, and thought-provoking podcasts, we inform, connect, and inspire a more vibrant, engaged, and resilient Edmonton region.

Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

UAlberta Website

• Welcome to our new University of Alberta website!

Mayoral Debate

• Candidates come out swinging in first Edmonton mayoral forum, economic recovery and Downtown vibrancy top of mind

Planning Awards

• Edmonton wins planning awards for open option parking and City Plan

Guest: Mariah Samji

• Executive Director, Infill Development in Edmonton Association
• LinkedIn
• Top Barriers to Infill Development

CoE Infill

• Infill Roadmap
• City Plan
• Edmonton Exhibition Lands
• Blatchford

Infill Coverage

• Infill fills a need, but at a cost
• Seven actions from Edmonton's infill roadmap completed in 2020
• 'It has to work for everyone': Edmontonians call for more inclusive city planning
• Rezoning applications propose increased density in Windsor Park and Westmount
• Edmonton wins planning awards for open option parking and City Plan
• Edmonton second in nation for single-family home starts

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we highlighted SHIFT by Alberta Innovates, a podcast that showcases the work being done in the province's innovation ecosystem. A recent episode features Jana Rieger from True Angle Medical discussing creativity, research and being an entrepreneur. We also talked about the Edmonton Community Foundation which acts as a bridge between donors and charities to create a strong, vibrant community for generations to come.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Trans Mountain

• Liberal government approves $9.3B Trans Mountain expansion project, but critics say it's too little too late

Endangered Glenora

• Top 10 Endangered Places List

EPL Wages

• Edmonton Public Library backtracks on student minimum wage decision

Gerry Shimko

• No longer with the City of Edmonton!
• "Rajna Tufegdzic is the Acting Executive Director of Traffic Safety until the City finds a replacement for Gerry."

ETS Skills Challenge

• Edmonton skills competition reveals intense experience of driving a big bus
• Troy's tweet

Calcium Chloride

• Councillor not pleased calcium chloride will be used on Edmonton roads again

Solar Plant

• Solar panel project in Edmonton’s river valley put on hold

Lewis Farms Recreation Centre

• Edmonton City Council approves $321M budget for Lewis Estates rec centre
• Andrew Knack's tweet

Housing Moratorium Lifted

• Mayor's office tweet

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we talked about The Wellness Summit organized by Alberta Blue Cross. The event takes place on October 10 at the Renaissance Edmonton Airport Hotel and aims to "connect the dots of what it takes to create healthier workplaces with happy people." We also highlighted Unit B Coworking, located on 104 Street downtown in the historic McKenney Building. Among other things, Unit B offers a recording studio!

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Limo Struggles

• Limo companies struggling during pandemic say Edmonton fees crippling industry

School Wave

• Nearly 100 Grade 10 students from Ross Sheppard High School told to self-isolate after positive COVID-19 test

Smart Fare Delay

• Border closure due to COVID-19 puts brakes on Edmonton transit’s smart fare system

Elise Stolte

• Twitter

Elections SOS The Citizens Agenda Election SOS | Supporting Journalists To Provide Better Election Coverage Key steps in the citizens agenda style of campaign coverage

People's Agenda

• Taproot Edmonton People's Agenda
• Help us discover the People’s Agenda in Edmonton

Speak to us!

• Voicelink.fm

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported. This week we highlighted YEGPodFest, an online podcast festival featuring masterclasses with experts, panel discussions, feature interviews and more. We also talked about CPA Alberta which "can bridge all areas of an organization, understand the ins and outs of your business, and bring a holistic view to problem solving."

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Ask About Edmonton

• Mayor Don Iveson kicks off City’s Ask About Edmonton campaign

Lobbyist Registry

• Seeking favour from an Edmonton councillor will soon make you a lobbyist

Confederation Lounge

• Proposed redesign of Confederation Lounge in Hotel Macdonald sparks public uproar online

Valley Line LRT

• City receives funding for Valley and Metro Line LRT expansion

City Market Downtown

• City Market to leave 104th Street
• From 2012: Edmonton’s City Market Downtown needs community representation

Speed Limits

• Edmonton city council asked to finally set slower neighbourhood speed limits
• Speed Reduction Policy C566
• Working together towards Vision Zero: 2018 update

Animal Protection Services

• Edmonton council approves $800K model for animal protection services

Terwillegar Funding

• ACT fund provides $90-million investment in transit in Edmonton
• Edmonton gets $90M boost from province for transit projects

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we highlighted Overdue Finds, a podcast presented by the Edmonton Public Library. Hosts by Bryce Crittenden and Caroline Land discuss all things pop culture and will let you know what you can find at the library. We also highlighted We Are Alberta, a monthly podcast from ATB that explores Alberta’s geography, businesses and organization, and its diverse and fascinating people, all through an economic lens. Recent episodes look at bitcoin mining, mint farming and drone testing!

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Police Tank

• Edmonton police unveil new $500K armoured vehicle

Oilers 50/50

• Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation bringing back online 50/50 for Stanley Cup Final

Edmonton Riverhawks

• Meet the Riverhawks: Edmonton ballpark to host new team backed by ex-Oiler-led group

Guest: Jeffery Hansen-Carlson

• LinkedIn
• Twitter

Prairie Sky

• Prairie Sky Gondola
• Why Prairie Sky?
• Prairie Sky Power Plant Tour

Gondola Related

• Feb. 5, 2020: Opinion: River valley gondola would come at great cost
• Jan. 29, 2020: Councillors weigh ups and downs of proposed river valley gondola, delay decision
• Jan. 28, 2020: Gondola over Edmonton river valley is feasible, proponent's study finds
• March 7, 2018: Rising to the top: River valley gondola winner of Edmonton Project
• Nov. 6, 2011: We need to improve public transit between downtown and Old Strathcona

Speak to us!

• Voicelink.fm

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported. This week we highlighted The Shared Mic, "a unique, interview-format intergenerational podcast by Age Friendly Edmonton." Season two launches Oct. 5. We also talked about The Well Endowed Podcast from the Edmonton Community Foundation. Episode 78 is all about millenials and technology and is hosted by Taproot’s own Emily Rendell-Watson.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Hipster vs. Boomer

• Twitter thread

Edmonton-opoly

• Monopoly-like game features new Edmonton landmarks

Downtown Farmers Market

• Edmonton Downtown Farmers Market closed over sprinkler system permit issues

Police Budget

• Edmonton police claim to face up to $9 million in funding shortfall after provincial changes

Snow Plowing

• Send in the plows: Edmonton to increase snow plowing this winter

EEDC Audit

• Audit calls on Edmonton's economic agency to clarify what it does
• Edmonton councillor wonders if EEDC will change after audit calls for clarity

Budget Restraint

• GUEST COLUMN: Budget changes call for restraint at city
• No new taxes: Edmonton mayor says city will ‘trim’ to balanced budget following cuts to provincial funding

Lead-tainted Water

• Edmonton residents have been drinking tap water with lead levels as high as 120 times the federal limit
• Edmonton's lead-tainted water still safe to drink, Epcor says

Metro Line LRT

• Metro Line Update: new signalling system taking shape
• New signalling system to be installed on Metro Line LRT, seven months after terminating Thales contract

Power Battle

• Edmonton radio stations head to court over 'POWER' branding
• Power 107 parent company fires back at copyright infringement claims

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we highlighted the Canadian debut of Marvel: Universe of Super Heroes at TELUS World of Science Edmonton, which runs until Feb. 17 and features more than 300 artifacts, costumes, props, and interactive elements. We also talked about The Well Endowed Podcast and specifically Episode 57 which features Taproot contributor Chris Chang-Yen Phillips talking about how an iconic local brewery survived prohibition in Edmonton.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Our Guests

• Let's Find Out by Chris Chang-Yen Phillips
• Edmonton's transit stations are dead, empty, soulless places. An extra security guard won't change that by Elise Stolte
• Photo: Chris, Mack, Elise

Local Links

• Kingsway - there's no Avenue!
• Coat of arms of Edmonton
• Bylaw 2202: Parkland Bylaw
• Keillor Point Viewing Area
• Rutherford the Time-Travelling Moose

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we talked about the Edmonton Community Foundation which acts as a bridge between donors and charities to create a strong, vibrant community for generations to come. You can start an endowment fund yourself or with a group — once it reaches $10,000, it can start distributing funds. We also highlighted Episode 21 of Don't Call Me A Guru, a podcast about social media strategy hosted by Linda Hoang.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

Happy Holidays!

We're proud to be a member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB! There are some incredible podcasters in Alberta and we're happy to be listed alongside them.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Pogo CarShare

• Pogo Carshare joins Communauto Group

Vehicle Noise Monitoring

• City turns off digital displays of decibel levels after noise complaints spike

Best of Edmonton

• Vue Weekly's Best of Edmonton 2018

The View

• Grandin-area tower The View goes to next step after public hearing
• Edmonton city council OKs 23-storey tower for small lot in Oliver

Smoking Ban

• Take two: Council votes a second time for 10-metre ban on smoking cannabis and tobacco
• St. Albert bans consuming cannabis in public

Exhibition Lands

• City unveils four concepts for future redevelopment of Exhibition Lands
• Edmonton Exhibition Lands
• Survey on the four concepts - open until September 30

Sanctuary City

• Edmonton city council approves 'sanctuary city' status to aid undocumented immigrants
• Coun. Sarah Hamilton calls out colleague for 'grand-standing' on sanctuary cities
• Calgary: City council a lonely place for Jeromy Farkas

Metro Line LRT

• Thales plans to have Metro Line fully operational by December

In this episode we mentioned fellow Alberta Podcast Network member Let's Find Out, hosted by former historian laureate Chris Chang-Yen Phillips. His most recent episode, The High Rise Inquisition, was commissioned by Taproot. We also talked about the OtherWise, a new podcast launching soon "dedicated to empowering diverse communities living on Treaty 6 territory by sharing stories of our lived experiences." They are holding a launch party on September 28.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free. Here's the September 21, 2018 edition.

A Taproot reader submitted a question to the COVID-19 in Edmonton site asking whether people were thinking about the pandemic response in relation to the climate crisis.

This seemed like a job for Chris Chang-Yen Phillips of Let's Find Out, and he obliged, gathering three perspectives on this question in audio form. Now his story is easily accessible to listeners of Speaking Municipally.

For more on Chris's interviewees — Miranda Lucas, Shelley Boulianne, and Chad Park — see the full story on Taproot Edmonton.

This story is part of Covering Climate Now's week of coverage focused on Climate Solutions, to mark the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. Covering Climate Now is a global journalism collaboration committed to strengthening coverage of the climate story.

To support the creation of more original journalism like this, become a Taproot member.

Another blow to regional collaboration as it appears the EMRB is dead after the provincial government pulled its funding. Plus, we talk budget, carbon emissions, police response times, and parking.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

EMRB

• Regional Roundup: Nov. 27, 2024
• 'Unexpected': Edmonton's regional board loses provincial funding, future uncertain

Budget

• City says participatory budgeting experiment was challenging but taught lessons
• Will Edmonton neighbourhood renewal be scaled back?
• Calgary council approves budget, 3.6% property tax increase

Carbon emissions

• Report suggests Edmonton's emissions are decreasing too slowly

Police response times

• Making Edmonton police response times public again: It's complicated

HotSpot Parking

• Zipstall parking app sent cease-and-desist letter by City of Edmonton's vendor HotSpot

DIP

• Puneeta McBryan's post

From the Taproot newsroom

• Conservatory of Music to leave MacEwan and become part of Winspear in 2025
• Building powerhouses look for new life at old RAM
• How Edmonton compares to cities finding success in tackling homelessness

Rapid fire

• Alberta's passenger rail master plan scheduled for summer 2025 release
• News Release: 30th Annual Stuff a Bus returns to support those in need
• Alberta mulls boosting U.S. border patrol in effort to prevent Trump's 25% tariff

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, the most reliable source of intelligence about what's happening in the Edmonton region. Through curiosity-driven original stories, tailored and useful newsletters, a comprehensive and innovative events calendar, and thought-provoking podcasts, we inform, connect, and inspire a more vibrant, engaged, and resilient Edmonton region.

Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

US Election

• See the latest at The New York Times
• ‘Let’s just have an outcome’: preaching patience, politicos weigh in on U.S. election night

Speed Limits

• Edmonton council approves 40 km/h residential speed limit
• Speed limit on Edmonton's residential roads will drop to 40 km/h next summer
• Speed Limit Reduction - City of Edmonton

Stephen Mandel

• Former Edmonton mayor pitches new sports venue for Coliseum
• Former Edmonton mayor, sports groups advocate to repurpose Northlands Coliseum

LRT Updates

• News Release: City names preferred proponent for Valley Line West LRT construction
• City of Edmonton selects Marigold Infrastructure Partners for Valley Line West LRT project
• Earlier: Edmonton’s west Valley Line LRT project gets ‘final step’ of approval from province
• Previously: Second chances: City to reopen bidding on Valley Line West LRT after two contenders back out

Ritchie Shelter

• ‘Mixed feelings’ about temporary homeless shelter in Edmonton’s Ritchie neighbourhood
• Previously: Edmonton hurries to open downtown shelter as Mustard Seed pitches south-side site

Toll Roads

• Toll roads would be permitted under new Alberta legislation

Speak to us!

• Voicelink.fm

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we highlighted the Alberta Forest Products Association and its "province-wide awareness campaign to highlight the beautiful relationship between Albertans and our forests." We also talked about CPA Alberta, the professional organization for more than 30,000 Chartered Professional Accountants (CPA) across the province.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Yoshii Express

• A Wild Week for Alan of Yoshii Express: How the Edmonton Community Came Together to Support A Small Business

Solar Farm

• News Release: World's-largest airport solar farm arriving at EIA

Hub City

• Downtown businesses 'super excited' about Edmonton being an NHL Hub City

Guest: Rob Houle

• LinkedIn Profile
• @NehiyawRob on Twitter

Policing Motion

• Final Motion (PDF)
• 'A lack of political bravery': Edmonton council's police motion falls flat, experts say
• Edmonton's police reform plan gets mixed reviews
• Edmonton council votes against police budget freeze, opts to reallocate $11M
• Edmonton police officers investigated for use of force in pair of arrests
• Rob's tweet thread

Edmonton Eskimos

• Edmonton releases statement on team name
• Edmonton CFL team to heed calls from sponsors and examine potential name change
• Rob's tweet

COVID-19 Finances

• July 3, 2020 Council Roundup
• News Conference: July 8, 2020
• News Release: City unveils Reimagine plan to deal with financial impact of COVID-19
• News Release: Government invests in completing Terwillegar Drive
• Kaycee Madu's tweet

Speak to us!

• Voicelink.fm

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported. This week we talked about Straight from the CPA's Mouth, a podcast from Alberta’s Chartered Professional Accountants that explores a variety of topics including financial literacy and leadership skills. We also highlighted Episode 74 of The Well Endowed Podcast from the Edmonton Community Foundation. The episode explores how Chinese communities in Edmonton continue to grow strong.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

Council wastes a lot of time hearing about spicy things, but the Mansion Tax may be just a little too spicy for the city lawyers.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Taproot event survey

• Should Taproot build an event calendar?

Chili pepper

• Comedian chomps chili pepper at Edmonton public hearing while arguing climate change is 'not a huge issue'

Winter Bike to Work Day

• Celebrate winter cycling on International Winter Bike to Work Day

15-minute communities

• Online conspiracy theories about Edmonton's '15-minute city' plan: 'Absolute nonsense'
• City aims for Edmontonians to 'live more locally' with 15-minute districts

102 Avenue NW

• Bylaw 20345: To close a portion of road, Downtown
• Idea to turn 102 Avenue over to pedestrians has long pedigree

Homelessness and health

• Homeless in Edmonton face health challenges, but stable housing can help: report

Pepper spray

• EPS, Edmonton city staff working to tighten bylaws on pepper and bear sprays
• Edmonton eyes tougher regulations on bear spray sales following rise in incidents

Mansion tax

• No solid foundation for Edmonton to adopt mansion tax, report suggests

Jobber

• Jobber closes $100 million USD Series D amid strong demand for home services

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we talked about The Well Endowed Podcast from the Edmonton Community Foundation, which explores the impact of passionate people who are working to make Edmonton a strong, vibrant city to live in. Episode 140 looks at how Edmonton's Food Bank, the very first food bank to open in Canada, goes beyond food to support community members. We also shared a clip from Edmonton Public Schools about open houses now underway across the district.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Rain

• Roads flooded, trails closed and more rain in forecast as city weathers storms

Herbicide Fine

• Edmonton penalized $165K for spraying industrial herbicide in Haddow community

Riverboat Evacuation

• Hundreds rescued in overnight evacuation aboard Edmonton Riverboat

Milner Library

• ‘Ugly,’ ‘not as pictured’: Edmonton reacts to new Stanley Milner Library design
• Warships and dumpsters: Incomplete Edmonton library gets unsavoury comparisons
• Edmonton Public Library boss defends downtown makeover after online backlash
• GUNTER: Edmonton's central library misses the mark
• BBC: Online critics poke fun at Canada 'warship' library
• Was this reimagined library a missed opportunity to revitalize downtown?
• 'Criticism is a summer sport': Iveson on library debate
• EPLdotCA's tweet
• Andy Grabia's thread

E-Scooters

• Council vote approves bylaw change for e-scooters in Edmonton

Keillor Point

• Edmonton’s ‘The End of the World’ is no more as city opens $1.5M Keillor Point lookout

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. This week we talked about ATB X a business accelerator "for people ready to disrupt and define their industries." Check out the ATB X Level Up Event Series hosted at Work Nicer covering business topics from culture to cash flow. We also included a clip from Alberta Health Services highlighting the many options available to help you manage and maintain your health.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a home for curiosity-driven stories about our city, cultivated by the community. In addition to this podcast, Taproot publishes the Council Roundup every week. Sign up to get it delivered by email for free.

Council is now on summer recess until Aug. 19. We'll be back next week with a bonus episode, then we're also taking a couple of weeks off. Plan your summer calendar with our 2019 guide to summer festivals and events!

We dive into city manager Andre Corbould's resignation and why it will matter.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Andre Corbould

• Andre Corbould is out as Edmonton's city manager
• Edmonton city hall's top bureaucrat is gone — how did we get here?
• David Staples: Province considers move to 'audit and stabilize' the City of Edmonton, say government officials
• Coun. Erin Rutherford response

Navigation centre numbers

• Alberta claiming success with Edmonton navigation support centre, plans to expand to Calgary
• Homeless people in Edmonton are dying at 8 times the rate as pre-pandemic
• Rachel Notley says the permanent housing number is 5

Glenora heritage

• City halts project to protect Glenora's character and starts city-wide strategy

83 Avenue pedestrianization

• City recommends removing cars on 83 Avenue near farmers' market
• Old Strathcona Public Realm Strategy

Residential parking permit zones

• Edmonton removing 15 residential parking permit zones

Rapid fire

• Treasurer who stole $160k from Edmonton preschool given 18 months in jail
• City halts project to protect Glenora's character and starts city-wide strategy
• Springtime skunk invasion stinky but short-lived in Edmonton

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Recycling sand

• Once a leader in recycling street sand, City of Edmonton now throws it all away

Making Space

• The City is Making Space for new perspectives on zoning with first-ever podcast

E-scooters and e-bikes

• E-scooters and e-bikes start rolling this summer

Road laneway growth

• Apparent jump in snow-clearing kilometres not all that it seems

Overdose response

• News Release: City and downtown partners team up to pilot drug poisoning prevention and response program
• Dedicated teams to provide drug poisoning prevention and response in downtown Edmonton

102 Avenue

• Should downtown Edmonton's 102 Avenue be pedestrian only?
• Edmonton city councillors push to pilot 102nd Avenue as pedestrian lane

Guest: Andre Corbould

• Office of the City Manager

The letter

• Chinatown Safety: immediate actions and follow-through | by Office of the Mayor Amarjeet Sohi
• My response to Minister Shandro's letter on the Police Act. | by Office of the Mayor Amarjeet Sohi
• Section 30(1) of the Police Act invoked
• Ministerial letter to Edmonton mayor about public safety

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we highlighted the Edmonton Community Foundation which produces The Well Endowed Podcast. We also talked about ATB Cares, which makes it easy for all Albertans to support the causes they care about.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Edmonton's administration drops a bombshell: apparently the city's relationship with the province is strained. Plus we dig into sandboxes, the screen industry, and buses down the middle of Whyte Ave.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Bare-chested swimming

• No top, no problem: All patrons allowed to be bare-chested at City of Edmonton pools

Sohi and Smith

• Edmonton mayor to have first meeting with Danielle Smith, five months after premier sworn in

Jordan Peterson

• Controversial author Jordan B. Peterson is coming to Rogers Place

Risk management

• Report suggests state of intergovernmental relations poses risk to City of Edmonton
• Lauren Boothby's thread

Energy audits

• Edmonton homeowners invited to apply for net-zero retrofit program
• Towards Net Zero Renovations | Change for Climate

Sandbox program

• City seeks input on sandbox program for ice control
• 2017: Edmonton community sandboxes fast-tracked to next week

Old Strathcona Public Realm Strategy

• Old Strathcona Public Realm Strategy (OSPRS)
• City of Edmonton plans to widen sidewalks, add dedicated bus lane along Whyte Avenue
• OSPRS StoryMap

Screen industries

• ESIO seeks impact instead of returns from rejigged investment fund
• Arts Roundup: Feb. 16, 2023

Speaking Municipally is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network: locally grown, community supported.

This week we talked about The Well Endowed Podcast from the Edmonton Community Foundation, which explores the impact of passionate people who are working to make Edmonton a strong, vibrant city to live in. We also highlighted Park Power, your friendly, local utilities provider in Alberta. Offering Internet, Electricity, and Natural Gas with low rates, awesome service, and profit-sharing with local charities.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Speaking Municipally is our pilot weekly podcast digging into the how's and why's of Edmonton politics.

Your hosts are Troy Pavlek and Mack Male who could graciously be described as "competent".

Each week we'll give you a short version of what happened this week that we think you should care about, and we'll dig in and discuss why it matters.

We're available wherever podcasts are sold - and submitting to as many new places as possible! If we're not available where you prefer to listen to podcasts, let us know! We'll get there.

Back here on August 10th. See you then.