Healthcare Attraction – City Council Committee will review a new Healthcare Attraction Incentive Policy aimed at recruiting and retaining physicians in the Brooks Newell Region. The program offers incentives such as 12 months of housing, access to a vehicle, private banking services including an interest-free line of credit, and a family recreation membership. In exchange, physicians must commit to practicing in the community for a minimum of five years, with the goal of helping them establish themselves locally and remain beyond that term. The policy includes repayment requirements if commitments are not met and is expected to be used two to three times per year. The City and County each contribute to an established shared $22,000 annual budget.

Irrigation Expansion – EID outlined in an update to City Council that a majority of irrigators support expansion if water risks are carefully managed through planning and infrastructure. Expanding requires approval from more than 50% of irrigators after detailed public information is shared. The proposed Snake Lake Reservoir expansion is identified as a key piece to improve water security and support growth.

Fees for Criminal Record Checks – Council is considering introducing fees for criminal record checks conducted by the Brooks RCMP. Administration noted that Brooks has been providing some of these services at no charge, while other municipalities already charge fees in the range of $50 to $75. In 2023 and 2024, more than 1,600 criminal record checks were completed. The change would bring Brooks more in line with other communities and help offset the cost of providing the service. Fees could be waived for local non-profit organizations.

Kick-Off Market Building Momentum – With the June 6 Kick-Off Market six weeks away, the Brooks Farmers’ Market is already ahead of last year’s pace, with more than double the number of vendors signed up at this point compared to last year. New vendors are encouraged to get involved now, start small, and secure their dates as the Kick-Off fills. Vendor Applications are on the website.

Data Centres – City Council Committee reviewed a proposed amendment to allow data centres in industrial districts, with clear rules around how they operate. These facilities are secure buildings that house computing equipment. They typically have low staffing needs but rely heavily on infrastructure such as power and cooling systems. The bylaw introduces detailed requirements, including strict noise limits. Applicants would also need to submit water use plans, outline power supply, and meet security standards such as fencing, surveillance, and controlled access. While data centres do not typically create large numbers of jobs, they can contribute to property tax revenue and are regulated more like utilities than traditional businesses. This amendment does not approve any specific project.

Business Licence Updates – The City is reviewing updates to its business licence rules. Businesses are required to have a licence to operate legally in the municipality. Proposed changes include removing the exemption for landlords. BRZ businesses would also need to pay any outstanding BRZ taxes before getting a licence. Mobile vendors will require a development permit if operating from a fixed location. The late renewal penalty would be reduced from $75 to $25 after concerns that it was higher than the cost of a new application. An exemption would remain for Brooks Farmers’ Market vendors selling products they make, bake, or grow themselves.

Blossoms & Ballads Gala - Sat, Apr 25 at the Heritage Inn Hotel and Convention Centre. The evening will feature dinner, live music, showcases, and a silent auction. This gala is a community fundraiser, supporting the endeavours of both the Brooks Music Festival Association and the Brooks Rotary Club.

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