Edmonton Minute: Issue 240

Edmonton Minute - Your weekly one-minute summary of Edmonton politics

📅 This Week In Edmonton: 📅

• On Tuesday, at 9:30 am, there will be a City Council meeting. On the agenda is the Spring 2025 Supplemental Capital Budget Adjustment. This adjustment is part of Edmonton’s multi-year 2023-2026 Capital Budget process that allows Council to adjust the budget twice yearly to respond to changing project needs, funding opportunities, and priorities. Council will assess a proposed net increase of $75 million to Edmonton’s 2023-2026 Capital Budget, bringing it to $11.03 billion. Key contributors to the increase include new growth and renewal projects, cost overruns, and expanded project scopes - most notably $66.6 million for Dunluce Neighbourhood Reconstruction and $14.3 million for Ottewell. Although some costs are offset by project savings, fund transfers, and external funding (like federal housing grants), the overall capital spending is still rising. The City is monitoring tariff impacts on material costs, which could further impact project budgets.
  
  
• Council will also discuss options for creating an Independent Anti-Racism Body, a priority identified in the City’s 2022 Anti-Racism Strategy. A Community-led Advisory Panel recommended forming a non-profit organization as a backbone entity to support anti-racism work, while the Bloomberg Harvard City Leadership Initiative suggested a collaborative model working with existing organizations and hiring a Collaboration Manager. A report presents three options for City Council - establishing that new non-profit, adopting the collaborative approach with local leaders, or updating the existing Anti-Racism Advisory Committee’s mandate. Council has allocated $1 million in 2024 and $1.6 million annually thereafter to fund this body, with each option using the funds differently.
  
  
• A request to stop train whistling at three Canadian National (CN) railway crossings will be discussed by Council. The request comes after following safety upgrades that meet Transport Canada’s requirements. Public notifications and consultations with CN Rail and community groups have been completed as required by law, and the crossings at 162 Avenue East of 142 Street, 167 Avenue East of 142 Street, and 64 Avenue East of 30 Street have been improved with new warning systems like gates, lights, and signage. Whistle cessation is intended to reduce noise pollution near residential areas while maintaining safety, as train operators can still sound whistles in emergencies. Work continues on three other crossings to prepare them for future whistle cessation.
  
  
• Edmonton police have introduced Canada’s first in-cell biometric monitoring system to enhance safety for detainees in custody. The wireless sensors track vital signs like heart rate, breathing, and movement in real time, allowing staff to intervene quickly if a medical emergency arises. Originally designed for senior care, the system is now being expanded and adopted by other cities, including Regina and Medicine Hat. The initiative follows past in-custody deaths, such as overdose and stroke cases, highlighting the need for better health monitoring. The program costs about $3,500 per unit annually, but police say it could save lives, prevent lawsuits, and reduce employee trauma. Detainees also undergo extensive health and safety checks during intake, and are monitored until their bail hearings. The overarching goal is that no one dies in custody.
  
  
• Speaking of police, the Edmonton Police Commission has launched its search for a new Police Chief, following extensive public and internal consultation to develop a candidate profile. Chair Ben Henderson said the feedback revealed a strong consensus on the need for a leader who can connect with communities, communicate effectively, and maintain steady progress rather than push for radical change. The new Chief must possess both leadership and technical skills to manage a complex, evolving organization. Public input emphasized a desire for collaboration, innovation, and ongoing improvement in community safety, particularly amid challenges like crime, social disorder, and post-COVID recovery. Concerns were also raised about internal staff well-being, given that one in ten EPS employees are currently on leave. The Commission aims to make a recommendation by October, though the process may extend into November to ensure the right fit. Interim Chiefs Devin LaForce and Warren Driechel have been jointly leading the force in the absence of a permanent Chief.
  
  
• Edmonton residents have been voicing plenty of concerns to Council about the impacts of rapid densification driven by recent zoning bylaw changes. Edmontonians stressed the issue isn't just the pace of change though, but the lack of community consultation and thoughtful design. While the City approved over 16,000 new housing units last year - many in mature neighbourhoods - residents argue the shift to larger developments like eight-plexes has led to increased traffic, parking issues, and disruptions to neighbourhood character. City staff have proposed amendments to address some of these concerns, including reducing building length, limiting side entrances, and improving facade design. The proposed changes will be debated at a public hearing on June 30th, offering Edmontonians another chance to voice their views. If approved, the amendments would take effect immediately. 
  
  
• Edmonton is moving to replace its outdated Animal Licensing and Control Bylaw with a new, modernized version that would significantly raise fines and strengthen enforcement around pet ownership and animal welfare. The updated bylaw, if approved, would overhaul how the City handles dog attacks, animal neglect, feral cats, and responsible ownership standards. One major change includes a tiered fine system for dog attacks, with penalties starting at $250 for chasing and reaching $1,000 or more for repeat bites or severe injuries. Another key feature is the expansion of rules for restricted dogs, requiring microchipping, behavioural training, and offering a possible review of their status after three years of good conduct. Humane management strategies like trap-neuter-return would be officially recognized, aiming to reduce Edmonton’s feral cat population, estimated at up to 70,000. The bylaw also seeks to clearly define the differences between owned, unowned, and feral cats - closing a legal loophole that unintentionally penalized residents who informally care for stray animals. A final decision is expected from Council in August, and if passed, the new rules would take effect in May 2026 following a public awareness campaign.

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