Downtown Brooks Revitalization — A Town Centre design study from 1992 pictured a more pedestrian-friendly downtown, with trees, benches, lighting and inviting public spaces. Downtown Brooks BRZ received Council’s support for public engagement, including surveys of residents, businesses, property owners and visitors to help shape a shared new vision.

New Homes — The City of Brooks’ July–September development report says residential applications received during the quarter could add 47 homes. The report includes proposals for multi-unit housing and attached homes at several locations in Brooks.

Data-Centre Rules Are Now Final — County of Newell Council has adopted rules to guide future data-centre applications. No applications are currently before the County. Large centres must apply to locate on industrial land; smaller centres are limited to five acres. Agricultural sites may be considered if they are low impact, with existing oil and gas leases preferred. Applicants must explain where their water will come from, how much they will use and how they will handle wastewater. The County will review each site and may refer environmental concerns to provincial or federal experts. Federal and provincial bodies oversee electromagnetic-field standards. If a data centre closes, its building and equipment may remain, and the building could be reused.

The One Idea Worth Making Room For — In 2023, a Community Impact Award from CFSEA launched Market FOOD Money. Before it started, I worried about stigma for the families using the coupons. Then the first family left with their arms full of fresh vegetables, and a pink sprinkle cookie for their little girl. Dignity, and the freedom to choose fresh. After that first market, one of our vendors pulled me aside, a tear starting in his eye: “Roxanne, you know . . . we are making such an impact.” Today it reaches seniors, new moms, newcomers and families of every size, hundreds of local people every season. 🌱

A Safer Plan for the Patricia Rodeo — RCMP will work with rodeo organizers after two serious incidents at the Patricia Rodeo Grounds on September 5. Four young people were reported assaulted. One lost consciousness, while another was taken from Brooks to a Calgary hospital. Three people were charged, and the cases are now before the courts. Staff Sgt. Rob Harms said similar trouble has occurred at past rodeos and alcohol appears to be a factor. RCMP will develop a safety plan and likely increase their presence at future events. “Nobody plans to go to a rodeo and ride home in an ambulance,” Harms said.

Murder Investigation Still Moving Forward — During the RCMP report to County Council, a councillor asked for an update on last August’s murder investigation. RCMP said several officers continue to work on the case and the investigation is “very much moving forward.” Police are waiting for reports and other information. They could not share more without risking the investigation but said further details will be released when possible.

Are County Messages Reaching You? — The County of Newell is reviewing how it shares news, service information, event notices, Council updates and emergency messages. Its anonymous, 10-minute survey asks what is working, what residents may be missing and how information could be easier to find and understand. Take the Communications Survey here.

Turning the Page Gala — Crossroads Clinic’s annual fundraiser is Nov. 6 at the Heritage Inn. Doors open at 5:30PM dinner and the program begin at 6. The evening includes live music from a youth band, a buffet, silent and live dessert auctions, and stories of hope. Tickets: crossroadsclinic.ca/banquet.

Hope Conference — Prairie Rose Hospice’s one-day conference is Saturday, Nov. 7, from 9:30 - 3PM. It features expert guest speakers sharing insights from their fields, with lunch provided. Register at prairierosehospice.ca.

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