Local Conduct Policy on the Way Out - Brooks Council is set to repeal its Code of Conduct for board and committee members. A new Alberta law (Bill 50) has scrapped all municipal conduct codes. The province says these rules were being “weaponized.” Minister Ric McIver pointed to the high-profile Medicine Hat case, where a mayor was sanctioned under a local bylaw—then had it overturned in court. A province-wide system is coming, but for now, there’s no formal process for handling misconduct by local officials or volunteers. Councils are in a grey zone until new rules arrive.

Recognition Policy - Brooks is updating its Recognition of Provincial and National Champions Policy. The original version called for formal certificates for every team member, a proclaimed day in their honour, community-wide congratulations, and City-led publicity. The new policy removes these automatic steps. Instead, recognition will be decided on a case-by-case basis. This mirrors a trend in other small Alberta towns—shifting from formal protocols to simpler, more practical ways of celebrating local success.

You deserve a break!

June is buzzing with end-of-school events, garden chores, and endless to-dos. This week’s market is your perfect excuse to slow down. You deserve a break. Shop fresh local produce, try something new, and soak up the laid-back vibes. It’s the pause your week needs.

Pick a time – Pick a person – Enjoy a break!
Thursdays, 2-6 PM in Veterans Park.

Get your limited-edition Bikes & Baskets insulated backpacks, including $10 Market Money and swag for just $25—while supplies last under the big yellow tent.

YAPP Faces a Major Shift - Since its 2015 launch, Brooks' Youth Activation Pass Program (YAPP) has provided over 600 free rec centre memberships annually to Grade 7–9 students. But with rising costs—over $240,000 in 2024—and increasing strain on facilities and staff, the City is looking at changes. Administration is recommending a new model: instead of free passes, students in Grades 7–10 would receive a one-time 30% discount per year. This would align YAPP with the current “YAPP Grad” program and help ensure the program remains sustainable long-term.

Program to Be Restructured - Brooks' Recreation Fee Assistance Policy approved 1,023 memberships in 2024. The total value reached $424,823. Over half of the memberships went to newcomers with immigrant or refugee status, showing the program’s vital role in helping new residents access recreation. But with rising costs and administrative strain, the current model is no longer sustainable. As the Manager of Recreation Services noted, “While reducing barriers is a priority, staff may not have the capacity to eliminate them entirely.” Administration recommends shifting to a 50% discount model, capped at $150,000 annually, balancing access with long-term sustainability.

Corporate Membership - The City of Brooks currently offers discounted recreation memberships to employees at six local companies, but with no formal policy, the process has become inconsistent. In 2024, about 80 memberships were issued, resulting in $10,628 in discounts. Most companies received a 30% discount, while one received 10%. JBS Foods is not included, as it operates under a separate agreement. To ensure fairness and consistency, the City is considering replacing the current informal model with individual corporate agreements. New businesses would start at a 5% discount, with future rates based on employee participation.

Thank you for sharing LarkSPUR NEWS and spurring others on!
😁👍