Updating the definition of CAO - At this week’s Council meeting, proposed updates to the City’s CAO Bylaw will be reviewed. The bylaw was last discussed in February, when Council Committee requested further clarification on a few items. Key updates include updating the definition of CAO.

Tech & AI Opportunity - Three Councillors attended the Inventures Conference in Calgary, where discussions focused heavily on artificial intelligence and data centres. They reported that the County of Newell already meets the key criteria tech investors are seeking and could position itself as a future hub for tech infrastructure. The team made strong connections with potential partners interested in collaborative projects. “We've got an opportunity here that when you start adding up the dollars, it's like the second coming of the oil patch,” one Councillor stated.

NewGrow Lineup - Pitch Night will take place at City Hall on Friday June 13th, starting at 5:00PM. The event is open to the public.

Here's the lineup for Pitch Night:

• Magnet Signs Brooks

• Thom’s Funeral Home

• Carbon Oxy Tech

• TnA Auto Glass

• eRadio Coffee

• The Focal Eatery

• The Babe Bar

• Tilley Car Wash & Storage

• Dust ‘n’ Wood

• Sun Dog Sauna

The Brooks Farmers’ Market kicked off with a record-breaking opening, and we’re just getting started!

The momentum remains strong rolling into the regular Thursday markets, weekly from 2-6PM in Veteran’s Park. Vendor turnout remains high, with the park filling up again this week. Shoppers can look forward to fresh produce, baked goods, handmade items, and more.

And for those looking for a unique, active, and family-friendly experience, visit the yellow tent to grab a limited-edition Bikes & Baskets insulated Backpack, a $45 value, including $10 Market Money and swag for just $25—while supplies last. While e-bike rentals aren’t available on Thursdays, you can always cycle downtown to the market. Bike racks can be found in front of the Credit Union and City Hall.👍

Team Newell - The 2025 Southern Alberta Summer Games (SASG) will take place in Taber from July 2–5. With over 2,000 participants expected from across 13 regions. Athletes from Brooks and surrounding communities will represent Team Newell as they compete in 24 confirmed events. The City’s Recreation Program Coordinator serves as Regional Director.

Showcasing Brooks Region - As part of the Rotary International Convention in Calgary (June 26–30), two special tours will highlight the Brooks region. Visitors will explore Dinosaur Provincial Park, tour the Bassano Dam, enjoy a long-table dinner at CDC South, and visit the EID Historical Park. The experience will also include shopping stops at the Brooks Farmers’ Market and Downtown Brooks.

Chamber Award, Events & Trade Show - The Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce was named 2024 Alberta Chamber of the Year. The Chamber continues to gain momentum in the Brooks Region with 67 local members, growing event attendance, and tailored programming like business roundtables and financial planning sessions.

Plans for the 2025 Home & Leisure Trade Show will reflect feedback from last year’s show. Naomi Zacharias is tailoring the layout to include using the mezzanine as a home-based business section, with design help to drive foot traffic upstairs, and adding a new Community Corner, where nonprofits can collaborate in a fun, engaging space to showcase local services.

Silver Sage Ag Society’s Vision Moves Forward - County Council has endorsed the Silver Sage Ag Society’s early-stage concept for a major facility upgrade, which includes a new Events Centre, campground, and relocated rodeo grounds. The goal is to boost tourism and expand event capacity in the Newell Region. While supportive, Council raised concerns about potential overlap with existing venues like the Centennial Arena and JBS Canada Centre, especially given the region’s limited population. However, Silver Sage was recognized as uniquely positioned to attract rural and provincial audiences for agricultural and western-themed events, filling a gap in regional hosting capacity.

Brooks Music Festival - AGM June 16, 7pm at the Outback Building of the Alliance Church.

Smoker Wars - The 4th Annual Smoker Wars is Father’s Day weekend, June 13–14, at the Centennial Regional Arena.

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