Rural Home Care - At their strategic planning retreat, County Council identified rural home care as a top priority to help seniors stay in their homes. While Alberta Health Services is responsible for home care, staffing shortages and system-wide challenges are affecting service delivery across the province. Council is now asking: should more be done beyond the 2023 RMA resolution that called for improved rural home care in Alberta? Options include raising awareness, advocating with the Province, promoting local job opportunities and training, and helping residents connect with support services. Council will decide if further action is needed or if current efforts are enough.

Spray Park Final Decision - The City has been working on plans for a new community spray park since 2024, but rising costs caused a delay. Now, the plan is to build a small spray park with six fun water features in the green space on Upland Road W. To move forward, the City needs to approve another $100,000, since only half of the $200,000 project cost is currently covered. Staff are recommending that the extra money come from the Canada Community Building Fund, which still has over $900,000 available this year. If Council does not approve the request at the April 21 meeting, staff suggest waiting until 2026 to avoid cold weather construction. If approved, the park could be built later this summer, with very little ongoing maintenance or operating costs expected.

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

Saddle Up for Our Biggest Kick-Off Yet! The countdown is on—just 6 weeks until the Brooks Farmers’ Market season opens with a bang on Saturday, June 7 from 10 AM–2 PM! This special Rodeo Weekend edition will feature fresh finds, family fun, and rodeo-themed surprises.

We're closing in on our biggest opening day ever, and spots are filling fast. If you're a maker, baker, or grower, there’s still time to be part of something special. Join us as we kick off the season, connect our community, and make market history together! 👏👏👏

Brooks Dog Park - The City is inviting residents to help improve the Brooks Dog Park by purchasing a sign sponsorship. For $100, supporters can have a 6"x12" sign displayed in memory of a pet on the park’s fencing. Funds raised will be used to enhance the space, making it better for local dogs and their owners. Find the form here.

New Life for Badlands Mercantile - The former Badlands Mercantile has a new owner and a new name: OTR Meats and More. The business focuses on selling beef from the family’s One Tree Ranch. The shop will also continue offering locally made goods, souvenirs, and ice cream for both locals and visitors to Dinosaur Provincial Park. Plans are in place to host summer markets to attract more visitors.

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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