Highway 873 Improvements - County Council plans to ask Alberta Transportation to both widen and repave Highway 873 south of Brooks, all the way to the road leading into Kinbrook Island Park. Alberta Transportation asked if the County preferred a quick repaving or a full widening first. Council supports doing both at the same time to make the road wider and stronger for the future. The project will not cost the County anything. Once Council confirms its support, a letter will be sent to Alberta Transportation to move the project forward.

Urban Hen Program Changes - Since January 2023, residents have been able to keep hens under a two-year pilot. After review, City Council recommended raising the number of hens allowed from four to six. In response to a request from a property owner with a large lot, Council also directed that the bylaw be updated to allow more hens depending on property size:

• Properties under 2,000m² may house up to 6 hens.

• Properties over 2,000m² may house up to 20 hens.

Seven properties are currently approved to keep hens in the city. The updated bylaw will also include fines for not following the requirements.

Shelter Capacity - The Brooks Animal Protection Society (BAPS) is currently full and unable to accept more dogs. As a result, the City’s bylaw services cannot take custody of stray dogs at this time. Residents who find a stray dog are being advised to contact other service providers. The City and RCMP will continue to respond to reports of aggressive or dangerous dogs. Residents looking to adopt a pet are encouraged to contact BAPS to help free up shelter space.

Got a Big Idea? - NewGrow is back this spring, 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

Let’s Make Market History -The Brooks Farmers’ Market Kick-Off is just 7 weeks away, and momentum is building for our biggest opening market ever! Set for Saturday, June 7, from 10-2 PM, the market will celebrate Rodeo Weekend with fresh finds, family fun, and rodeo-themed surprises. 👏👏👏 We’re already halfway to our vendor goal—so if you’re a maker, baker, or grower, now’s the time to join in. Let’s fill the market with creativity, connect our community, and make this a season opener to remember!

CDC South - Year one of managing CDC South is expected to be financially challenging. While expenses are currently estimated at $1.3 million, only $500,000 in provincial operating support is confirmed. Renovations at the Griffin building are underway, and the space is expected to be ready for occupancy by September 1. Despite the slow start—partly due to delays in acquiring the property—momentum is building. The first lease agreement has been signed, and interest in the site is growing. Staff are optimistic about lowering costs and improving service levels.

2025 Tax Rate - The County of Newell’s assessment values increased by $382 million compared to last year, resulting in $817,000 in additional municipal tax revenue. CAO Matt Fenske shared a “tax rate report card,” showing how this Council’s approach since 2021 has kept most rates trending down while managing steady growth:

• Residential tax rate down 13.9% since 2021

• Small business tax rate down 10.3%

• Non-residential tax rate down 8.3%

• Farmland tax rate up 17.7% (a planned change to help balance services across property types)

Councillor to run for Alberta Director - Council voted to support Councillor Kelly Christman’s bid to run for the Alberta Director position on the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) Board. If elected, Kelly will serve a one-year term starting in June 2025. Kelly shared that this opportunity has been on her radar since first attending FCM 12 years ago. She noted the value of having a rural voice at the national level and committed to keeping Council updated on FCM activities throughout the term. The election will take place at the FCM AGM in Toronto this June.

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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