City Strategic Plan Priorities – the City’s 2026–2029 Strategic Plan, focuses on three key areas: community building, infrastructure, and sustainability. Priorities include transforming siloed events into shared community experiences, transitioning to a full cost-recovery model for utilities, and attracting, integrating, and retaining health care professionals long-term. The plan will guide budgets and decisions over the next four years, with progress reviewed regularly.

Why Some Intersections Don’t Get Stop Signs – Council reviewed a new Traffic Control Devices policy that explains how decisions are made on signs, signals, and crosswalks. The City uses national guidelines and engineering standards to determine what is actually needed. Traffic controls must show a measurable safety or traffic benefit, not just concern, before they are installed.

Producers Pay for Recycling – Brooks will transition to Alberta’s new Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program this October, shifting the cost and management of recycling from municipalities to the producers of packaging and paper products. A contracted provider will handle curbside collection, with pickup expected every two weeks. The City will step back from operations and focus on communication. Residents will receive more details this summer. The Newell Recycling Depot will continue to operate.

From 19 to 94 – the BEST little Farmers’ Market is growing, expanding from 19 vendors in 2007 to 94 in 2025. Strong vendor interest and rising attendance, including over 3,000 at the Kick-Off Market, position the market as both a community hub and a regional attraction. 🙌 You don't need to commit to a full season to get started. APPLY NOW! Be part of the Beautiful, Engaging, Shopping, Tourist attraction.

Municipal Enforcement Busy – Municipal Enforcement reported strong activity this quarter, issuing 477 traffic tickets and 194 warnings, with a focus on school zones and high-traffic areas. Beyond traffic, officers addressed property concerns, including snow removal, overgrown trees, and unsightly yards. The department works diligently to address illegal dumping, including adding regular evening shifts to provide dynamic security, prevent dumping, and apprehend offenders. “We remain dedicated to maintaining the Brooks slogan of Beautiful and Bountiful.”–Sgt. Logan Grant

Another Major Variance Request – Council reviewed another request for a portable sign requiring a major variance on a City boulevard along Cassils Rd. Council denied this request due to conflicts with the sign bylaw. Portable signs are allowed on private property with permits.

More Homes Near Cassils and 11 Street – Two rezoning applications would increase density near Cassils Road West and 11 Street West proposed applications are for 8 triplex units and 4 additional 6-unit townhouses. A public hearing will be held on April 13 for both rezoning applications before Council makes a final decision.

Brooks Music Festival - runs March 19, and 23-27 with the final concert on March 31.  Full details on the website.

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