Thinking of Running for Council? - If you’ve ever considered serving your community on City Council—or are simply curious about what’s involved—the City of Brooks is hosting a Candidate Information Session on Monday, August 19, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at City Hall.

The session will cover:

• What it’s like to run in a municipal election

• Council duties, time commitment, and pay

• Qualifications and how to file nomination papers

• A Q&A with past Council members

It’s open to everyone, whether you’re ready to run or just exploring the idea. To register or learn more, contact Amy Rommens. Can’t attend in person? Alberta Municipalities offers Running for Municipal Office webinars online.

Help Run the 2025 Municipal Election — The City of Brooks is now recruiting election workers for the upcoming municipal election. This is a great opportunity to support the democratic process and serve your community.

Dates Needed:

• Advance Polls: October 4 & 18

• Election Day: October 20

• Mandatory Training: Held in September

The City is looking for reliable, detail-oriented individuals to help ensure the election runs smoothly and fairly. Previous experience is a bonus but not required—training will be provided. Interested? Contact Returning Officer Daphne Anstey-Martin, and include any past election experience if applicable.

New for 2025: Make Sure You’re on the Voter List - Alberta voters must now be listed on the Permanent Electors Register (PER) to vote in the upcoming municipal election. It only takes a few minutes to register or update your information online. Doing it now helps avoid delays at your local voting station. Confirm your details. Register in under 5 minutes. Be ready for the 2025 election. elections.ab.ca/voters/register-to-vote

Thanks to everyone who attended the Downtown Street Fair
this past weekend, the energy downtown was electric. Veteran’s Park was packed, and the new Sampler Trail was a clear crowd favourite—shoppers raved about the “friendly service,” “wonderful salsa,” “the best spring rolls,” and “love the ice cream and the team.” One person summed it up simply: “They were all my favourites.” Dozens of completed passports were returned for a chance to win a prize valued at over $80—congratulations to Anika, our Sampler Trail winner!

If you missed the fun, don’t worry—the next Saturday market is coming up during Alberta OPEN Farm Days on August 16, and it’s going to be another can’t-miss event. We’ll be highlighting our Bikes & Baskets agri-tourism experience, complete with trail maps, giveaways, and live music in the park. Make plans now to bring the family, grab lunch, and enjoy the BEST little farmers’ market in southern Alberta.

Vendors, apply now to be part of the August 16 Open Farm Days market! Spaces are limited and filling quickly. Vendor applications are available on the Brooks Farmers’ Market website.

Liquor Store Approved - The Municipal Planning Commission approved a new liquor store in a downtown building, even though it’s closer to homes than the usual 150-metre setback. Some residents shared concerns, but the Commission noted the actual travel distance is longer than it appears on paper. Commissioners pointed out that downtown has had liquor-serving businesses before, as well as a bar operating in the downtown area, which means that the adjacent residents are already familiar with the presence of a liquor serving establishment. The permit includes conditions like front-only customer access. The permit can be revoked during a 21-day appeal period if the business becomes a problem.

Rose Garden Tea - Communities in Bloom invites residents to a summer afternoon Rose Garden Tea on Saturday, July 26, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM. This free public event offers a chance to relax and enjoy the CIB Rose Garden located at the Brooks & District Museum, celebrate local blooms, and connect with the community. Everyone is welcome!

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