Wave Pool Update - The wave feature at the JBS Canada Centre pool is currently out of service after the fan impeller failed a few weeks ago. The wave feature is a key element of the pool experience. Replacing the impeller is $22,000 with a wait time of 26 weeks, replacing the entire unit is about $40,200 with a wait time of 16 weeks. The original unit is 21 years old, and the impeller was replaced in 2017. Given the unit’s age and history of repairs, a full replacement will ensure long-term reliability and restore the wave feature sooner. The City will look for operational efficiencies and possible funding from reserves to fund the full unit replacement and any unexpected tariffs.

Regional Emergency Management Plan - The City of Brooks is taking steps to join the Newell Regional Emergency Partnership (NREP) and become an active partner in the Newell Regional Emergency Management Plan (NREMP). This plan is an all-hazards framework used by the County of Newell, Bassano, Duchess, and Rosemary to manage emergency situations together. In the event of a disaster, significant benefits are realized by having local emergency partners and their resources directly involved in managing the response on a regional basis. If approved by the current partners, the City would be formally added to the Ministerial Order that created NREP.

2025 Property Tax Update - Property tax rates fund City services and programs. For 2025, overall property values in Brooks have increased by about 7.6%. The average property tax will increase by about 5.75% to cover rising costs. This is an average—some properties may see higher or lower changes depending on individual assessments. The 5.75% tax increase was not an easy decision. After lengthy discussions, Council approved the budget, with 3.75% of the increase going directly to cover additional RCMP policing costs. Despite inflation, the City worked hard to hold all other increases—like utilities, insurance, and infrastructure to just 2.0%. There are also increases in education and senior housing, but the City has no control over these raises.

Help Us Make History! - The Brooks Farmers’ Market Kick-Off is just 8 weeks away, and we are aiming for our biggest opening market ever. We’re already halfway there. If you are a maker, baker, or grower, join us and give shoppers the chance to discover and support your work. Let’s fill the market with creativity to inspire and connect our community. 🙌

Update on Old Rodeo Grounds - The City of Brooks is getting ready to officially set aside the Old Rodeo Grounds land for Christ the Redeemer Catholic School Division. Council agreed last July to move forward, but first, the City needs to pass a bylaw to label the land as School and Municipal Reserve (MSR), which gives the City more say over what happens to the land in the future.

Proposed Rezoning - The City of Brooks is considering a bylaw to rezone land near Cassils Place East, in front of Denny’s, from Public Recreation and Open Space to Commercial General. This land, made up of two titles, was recently declared surplus by Council. The area around Cassils Place East is mostly commercial, and the proposed change matches the long-term plan for the area. A public hearing will be held on May 5 before Council makes a final decision.

Smoker Wars - The 4th Annual Smoker Wars is Father’s Day weekend, June 13–14, at the Centennial Regional Arena. Teams will fire up their smokers and compete for top honours in brisket, pulled pork, chicken thighs, St. Louis ribs, and baked beans. On Friday night, the public can sample and vote on smoked chicken wings. Saturday afternoon adds a new “Pitmaster’s Choice” appetizer competition, with ticket holders sampling dishes directly from the smokers. The weekend wraps up with a public supper on Saturday night after judging is complete. Cash prizes, merchandise prizes, a silent auction, a ladies' draw, and a Calcutta "Team Auction" will all be part of the action. Proceeds support local charities — last year, Smoker Wars raised over $8,000! Teams must register by May 16.

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