What Happens Next for the Art Barn? – Sage Brush Arts Society asked Council to let it use the whole Medium building, better known as the Art Barn. Administration recommended selling the property, citing the age of the building, asbestos, uncertain future repairs and ongoing City costs. Several councillors said the building still meets a community need and wanted other options explored before agreeing to sell it. Council voted unanimously to delay the decision until September while Administration gathers more information on repair costs and possible arrangements with community groups.

What Could Brooks Learn from Other Downtowns? – Councillor Chad Falkenberg toured St. Albert and Stony Plain while attending the Federation of Canadian Municipalities conference in June. A look at the plans behind both downtowns shows how the work was carried out. Stony Plain offers a closer comparison to Brooks. Its comprehensive, long-term downtown plan connected needed water and sewer work with downtown renewal. St. Albert has also worked from formal downtown plans for decades. In both communities, public art, pedestrian-friendly streets and a mix of homes, shops and workplaces were planned together.

Two Markets This Week – Brooks Farmers’ Market will be in Veteran’s Park twice this week: Thursday from 2–6PM the Park will be full with new, favourite, and visiting vendors. Saturday is the Street Fair in from 11–3 PM. Saturday also marks the first Discovery Tour. Visitors can pick up a FREE toolkit with an insulated market bag, Discovery Passport and Make ’n Take voucher. Completed passports can be entered for one of five $25 Market Money prizes.

More Building Plans in 2026 – The City has received 61 development permit applications in the first-half of 2026. Building permit applications reached 75 by the end of June. The latest available construction values totalled about $8.2 million by the end of May, compared with $5.3 million at the same point last year. Eleven single-detached homes were approved across Meadowbrook, Uplands, 15 Street and 16 Street. Two proposed eight-unit buildings were denied. Development Officer Bailee Boulet also reported that expanded notification rules are allowing more nearby landowners an opportunity to comment on proposed developments.

Eight Residential Lots Approved – Council approved dividing a one-acre parcel at the corner of 11 Street West and Cassils Road West into eight lots intended for four multi-unit residential buildings. Nearby residents will still be notified and have an opportunity to comment when the development permits come forward.

Help Bring the Market to Life – Brooks Farmers’ Market is looking for a volunteer to make up the SATURDAY market team. As a greeter and info booth assistant, serve as the friendly face at the market! Welcome visitors, answer questions, and introduce the Discovery Tour. apply here.

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