- Edmonton city council is moving forward with the second phase of its economic recovery plan with the approval of a new grant program. The Edmonton Economic Action Plan Grant will provide up to $25,000 to more than 80 projects "geared to helping businesses create jobs."
- The city's aerial mosquito prevention program was reinstated, only days after its cancellation was announced. Edmonton city council eliminated the helicopter program during the fall budget to save around $1 million. Last week, the Edmonton Journal reported that, without the program, mosquito populations could increase by about 40% in some areas.
- Edmonton Catholic Schools unanimously decided not to pilot the Alberta government's draft elementary school curriculum next year. The school board expressed concerns about content and timing, saying schools "aren't ready to test out something new" during the pandemic.
- The trial of an Edmonton-area pastor charged with flouting COVID-19 rules began on May 3. GraceLife Church pastor, James Coates, was charged under the Public Health Act for leading in-person services without physical distancing or masking.
- The University of Alberta continues to maintain strong research ties with China despite warnings from Canadian and U.S. intelligence agencies, reports The Globe and Mail. The university says it has "received no directives related to China” from the federal government.
- Starting May 4, Alberta teachers, early childhood educators and school support staff can start booking vaccine appointments, as the province expands COVID-19 vaccine eligibility. All adults in Alberta should be offered the vaccine before June 30.
