Questions Worth Asking: What We Learned - When City and County councils moved to their summer schedules, LarkSPUR NEWS invited readers to send in the questions that leave them wondering, “Why don’t the just ________ ?” Readers responded, and Mayor Norm Gerestein got us some answers. If something the City or County does leaves you wondering why, keep the questions coming, and we’ll do our best to get you the facts.

Will the City of Brooks place 10-minute parking-only signs in front of the post office and across the street? - The City will not install 10-minute parking signs at this time. Restrictions were considered when the development permit was issued and again when construction began. However, staff do not want to restrict parking based on a problem that may or may not develop. The City will monitor the area and may introduce time-limited parking if there is evidence of an ongoing problem.

Why don’t the police enforce the rules on bike helmets for those under 18 and tinted driver and passenger windows on cars? - The City says Brooks RCMP and Community Peace Officers educate and enforce both laws. Cyclists and bicycle passengers under 18 must wear an approved helmet. Officers begin with education, including summer bike rodeos, but tickets may be issued when education does not work. Aftermarket tint is not permitted on a vehicle’s windshield or front side windows. Drivers may be ticketed and required to remove illegal tint. (We’re digging into this one a little more)

Why are the lights at 2 Street West and 8 Avenue West SO short? - The traffic lights were timed when they were installed, based on vehicle and pedestrian counts. The City has no record of the timing being adjusted since then. A provincial grant application for a broader traffic-safety study was denied last year, but Council has since approved City funding for one. The study is expected to begin around September and will examine controlled intersections and pedestrian lights throughout Brooks.

This Is How We Grow the BEST Little Market – Last Thursday brought a record number of vendors and one of the busiest afternoons this season. At Saturday’s Street Fair, visitors took part in the first Discovery Tour. Those who took part got to know vendors, had real conversations and learned something new. The Discovery Tour returns on August 15, with more FREE Toolkits available. This Thursday, Music in the Park, a new food truck and plenty of vendors offer even more reasons to enjoy a break. Come shop, grab something to eat and enjoy the music. The market runs from 2–6 PM in Veteran’s Park. You deserve a break.

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.

Brooks Communities in Bloom - The annual Rose Garden Tea is Saturday, July 25, from 2–4 PM at the Brooks and District Museum. Admission is free.

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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