Tax Breaks to Attract Development – Council was asked to clarify what they want the Tax Incentive program’s primary goal to be: job creation or expanding the municipal tax base. Under the draft proposal, eligible projects would require at least $5 million in capital investment and the creation of 10 or more full-time jobs. Qualifying developments could receive a municipal tax exemption equal to 50% of the increase in municipal taxes for up to five years.

Recreation & Parks Update - a representative from FrancoSud School District will be added to the Recreation & Parks Board. The update also allows school board members who live in the County of Newell but contribute to recreation and education in Brooks to serve as school board representatives. The board will consist of up to six members from the City of Brooks (two councillors, four citizens-at-large), five from the County of Newell (two councillors and three members-at-large), one youth citizen-at-large, and one from each of the three School Divisions.

Tower Near Duchess – a 45-metre telecommunications tower is going to be installed about 6 km southeast of Duchess to improve internet coverage, bandwidth, and speed in the surrounding rural area.

Brooks Farmers’ Market – planning is underway for the 2026 season. The Kick-Off market is Saturday, June 6, in Veteran’s Park, right after the Rodeo parade passes by. Vendor applications are now open, and there is a strong lineup of local and visiting producers, bakers and artisans securing their spots. The market will again run weekly, Thursdays 2-6PM, along with Saturday markets once a month and our Special Market in Rosemary on Canada Day. This is your sign to APPLY NOW!

Recreation Fee Assistance – City councillors are considering proposed revisions to the City’s Recreation Fee Assistance (RFA) policy, which helps low-income residents access recreation facilities. In 2025, 892 memberships were issued, with a value of about $238,665. Currently, applicants are asked to contribute what they can toward a membership, but more than 90% of memberships are provided free of charge. Administration is recommending a change that would set fees at 50% of the regular annual rate for eligible participants, replacing the current “pay what you can” approach. A review of Alberta municipalities of similar size typically offers 10–75% discounts.

Loan for Rolling Hills Post Office – The County of Newell has approved a loan to the Rolling Hills Agricultural Society to help purchase the building that currently houses the Rolling Hills Post Office. The privately owned structure is expected to be sold following the retirement of the current postmaster, who owns the building. The Ag Society hopes to purchase the property to help ensure postal services continue operating in the Hamlet of Rolling Hills. Council also agreed to send a letter of support to the federal government backing the community’s request to maintain current service levels. Canada Post is proposing to reduce operating hours from 30 to 20 hours per week, driven by CPC’s declining financial position. The support letter will advocate for keeping the existing level of service.

Museum $100,000 endowment - In 2014, the Brooks and District Museum received a $100,000 endowment from the Donna and Mickey Hajash Foundation. The gift reflects their belief that recognizing the efforts of early settlers helps inspire future generations to continue building a better community. A condition of the gift is that the funds must be invested, with earnings used to support museum projects and not general operating expenses. The fund is now managed through the Community Foundation of Southeast Alberta (CFSEA) as an open Agency Fund, allowing others to contribute over time. For more information about the Brooks & District Community Fund, contact: brooksdistrictfund@cfsea.ca

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

Communities in Bloom - Upcoming events: Garden tour July 16, 4-7:00PM. Rose Garden Tea July 25, 2:00PM. Commemorative Forest September 23, 2:00PM. For more information, contact Loretta Scholz.

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