2025 Brooks Budget - A few of the items in the 2025 Budget.

EcoBrooks requested an additional $10,000 to expand environmental sustainability efforts. Proposed projects include:

• Air Monitoring Station: In partnership with Palliser Airshed Society, Brooks will wrap an air monitoring station with local artwork to gather air quality data and promote sustainability.

• Environmental Events: Funding will support workshops, speaker sessions, and a tradeshow to raise awareness and engage the community on environmental issues.

• Litter & Recycling Bins: Additional bins will be placed in high-traffic areas to improve waste management and align with city pathway expansion plans.

• Pilot Water Fill Stations: Seasonal potable water fill stations are being explored for Duke of Sutherland Park and Lake Stafford.

Funds from the Christ the Redeemer (CTR) lease at The Medium are earmarked for Arts, Culture, and Heritage Board initiatives. Two options are under consideration:

1. Allocate all lease revenue to cover the cost of a facility employee.

2. Implement a 50/50 revenue-sharing model between the Board and facility costs.

Pool change room lockers in the EID Aquatic Centre are in poor condition. Originally installed in 2004. The coin/locking mechanisms continue to break down and parts are no longer available to repair them. The replacement cost is $306,000.

New Soccer Fields - Grasslands Soccer Association (GSA) and the City are working together to develop new soccer fields on a 17-acre City-owned parcel south of the Regional Ball Park. The site offers access to water, wastewater, parking, pathways, green spaces, a playground, and washroom facilities. The proposed layout includes fields for various age groups, with potential for expansion and hosting large tournaments. Completion is targeted for late 2025 or early 2026. As with other minor sports organizations using City-owned land GSA will fund the improvements and the City maintain the fields.

2025 Ice Dates - Due to rising demand for arena ice, the City will follow the 2024 ice installation schedule for 2025. Ice bookings at the Sparrow and the CRA will begin in August. The possibility of having the ice year-round was explored. While some groups have shown interest, a business plan would be needed to assess feasibility.

City Budget Increase - Homeowners with a $300,000 property assessment will see a $12.00 monthly tax increase (5.75%) in 2024. General inflation accounts for 2% or $4.30 and $7.70 for RCMP funding (3.75%). Rising costs for electricity, natural gas, insurance, and the carbon tax are beyond Council's direct control. Utility fees for water, sewer, garbage, and recycling will rise by $10 per month for an average household.

Monday night Bingo - Knights of Columbus host Bingo every Monday night at St Mary’s Hall, doors open at 6:30PM. Pre-call at 7:00 PM with games starting at 7:30PM. For further information contact/message Dan

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