Homegrown Path to More Doctors – The first class of 20 Southern Alberta Medical Program students began studying in Lethbridge this month and will graduate from medical school in 2029. The admissions process looked for students interested in rural and regional medicine, and a good portion are from south of Calgary. Dr. Rick Buck, the program’s associate dean, said students recruited and trained locally are more likely to stay. Council was told a direct relationship with the region’s physician attraction and retention initiative is “in the works.” CAO Matt Fenske said local doctors “are very eager to land these new students up here in their practice.”

East-West Truck Route – First proposed in 2009, the east-west truck route is entering its next planning stage: engineering, acquiring three remaining properties and seeking funding. Estimated at $7.5–$9 million, the route would connect Silver Sage Road from Highway 873 to Old Highway 1, moving trucks and hazardous goods away from the skatepark, Eastbrook School and the planned Catholic school at the old rodeo grounds site.

Fix It Before It Fails – The County is looking into what it would cost to have engineers assess recreation facilities operated by nonprofit partners, including agricultural societies. If approved in the 2027 budget, the reports would identify the condition and expected life of roofs, boilers, heating systems, kitchens and other components, helping volunteers plan maintenance and prepare for major expenses.

This Is How We Grow the BEST Little Market – there are a dozen new vendors this season, joining returning favourites and visiting vendors. This Thursday, Round Box Foods visits from Lethbridge with dessert sauces, while Snapshot Magnet can turn a photo from your phone into a personalized magnet. Come discover someone new, shop your favourites and grab something to eat. The market runs from 2–6 PM in Veteran’s Park. You deserve a break.

New Pump Track Built at Emerson Bridge – Construction is complete on a new pump track at Emerson Bridge Park. The campground has had a slower start to the season. The park’s bat population also continues to decline.

Councillors’ Ideas for 2027 – Administration will investigate the rough cost of a walking and cycling trail of approximately 10 kilometres from Bassano to the Bassano Dam. Councillors also discussed surveying interest in ATV trails in the county.

2027 Brooks Budget Survey - The City of Brooks is planning for the 2027 budget, and they want to hear from you. The survey focuses on City services where Council has the most flexibility in funding and investment. Results will be shared with Council and used to help inform budget decisions. The survey takes approximately 2–3 minutes to complete. Your details, such as name and email address, are not collected unless you provide them yourself.

Be Part of Market Day – If you enjoy meeting people and being useful, the Brooks Farmers’ Market could use your help during Thursday markets. Welcome visitors at the Info Tent, help people find what they are looking for, check in with vendors or cover a booth during a short break. You don’t need to know everything about the market . . . we’ll make sure you have the information you need. Help for an hour or two, choose a Thursday or come regularly. Learn more or sign up here.

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