Planning for Possible Postal Disruption - Last year’s Canada Post strike caused problems when people couldn’t receive or send their utility bills. City Council decided to cancel late payment penalties, which led to confusion and extra work for staff. With another possible postal disruption expected after May 22, the City is getting ready. Utility and tax bills will be mailed by mid-May, and a public awareness campaign is underway to promote other payment options. To avoid repeating last year’s issues, Council is being asked to give Administration the power to waive late fees again if mail service is interrupted.

CDC Progress Update - The County has signed new leases for land and building space at the CDC, with about 15% of the approximately 450–500 acres of usable land now committed to research and crop prep. This gradual rollout gives flexibility as new user groups clarify their needs, and so far, no concerns have been raised about the support fees for services. Some public user groups are still adjusting to the shift from free access to rental fees, which help cover basic costs like cleaning and maintenance. But fees must cover essentials like cleaning and maintenance. Renovations are planned to be completed by September 1. Agricultural equipment is also available for rent on-site.

Climbing Wall for Rec Centre? - The Recreation Board received a presentation on a potential new addition to the Rec Centre: a climbing wall and kilter board. While still in the early stages, staff have been asked to explore possible locations and cost estimates. The concept may be considered for future development if it proves feasible.

NewGrow is back - offering local entrepreneurs, creators, and innovators a chance to launch or grow their business with up to $10,000 in funding, plus access to mentorship, promotions, and business support. Whether it’s a bold new product, a fresh take on a service, or an exciting business expansion—NewGrow wants to hear your pitch. Learn more and apply online.

• Applications due: June 6

• Pitch Night: June 13

4 Weeks Out — Record-Breaking Rodeo Weekend

The countdown is on! The Brooks Farmers’ Market kicks off on Rodeo Weekend—Saturday, June 7, from 10–2 PM—and it’s already shaping up to be our biggest opening market ever.

This year’s kickoff includes live music, a kid-friendly bull ride, and the soft launch of our new Bikes & Baskets program—an experience designed to reward those who want to turn market day into an adventure. You’ll even be able to rent an e-bike right at the market.

If you’re a maker, baker, or grower, there’s still time to join in. We’ve already surpassed our previous record for opening day vendors, and the momentum is only growing.

You can help us create a Rodeo Weekend to remember.

Hen Bylaw not hatched yet - Council voted to further discuss the Animal Control Bylaw. Last week the discussion was whether properties over 2,000 m² need to fence their entire lot, or just the area containing the coop and outdoor enclosure. This week council voted to revisit the question of how many hens residents are allowed.

Residents who meet the requirements and want to keep hens must:

1. Review the updated Animal Control Bylaw

2. Apply for a premises identification number from the Province

3. Build the coop and outdoor enclosure

4. Book an inspection with Municipal Enforcement

5. Receive a hen licence if everything meets the bylaw

Rural Beautification - The County is once again gearing up for the Rural Beautification Program—an annual initiative that highlights conservation, celebrates local landscaping efforts, and builds stronger community connections. Nominations are open until July 11, with yard judging scheduled for July 17 and 18, and the final tour taking place on July 25.

Rainier Recovery - The County will begin recovering raw irrigation water delivery costs from property owners in the Hamlet of Rainier. This approach is already in place in other hamlets and villages, where similar charges are applied each year to cover irrigation-related expenses. The total cost will be divided among benefiting parcels based on acreage and water usage, using data from the Eastern Irrigation District. This is the first year Rainier will see this charge on tax notices.

Smoker Wars - The 4th Annual Smoker Wars is Father’s Day weekend, June 13–14, at the Centennial Regional Arena. Proceeds support local charities — last year, the event raised and donated 27K, which went to Aarit Hok Pediatric Fund, Seniors Outreach, Cleo’a Karma Canine Rescue and the Brooks Dog Park Project. Teams must register by May 16.

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