- Postmedia reported that former staffers of Coun. Jennifer Rice have accused her of creating a hostile work environment, with allegations of bullying, yelling, and unrealistic demands leading to an unusually high turnover in her office. City data showed that 19 people have worked for Rice since her election in 2021, which was nearly three times more staff than any other councillor. Postmedia spoke with five former staffers who detailed experiences of verbal abuse, excessive overtime, and impacts on their mental health. Postmedia also detailed parts of an audio recording it obtained of a "tense private meeting" between Rice and two assistants. In a statement, Rice did not address the allegations, but said she has had "wonderful staff who have made many positive contributions." At city hall on Nov. 27, Rice avoided reporters' questions about the allegations. "Right now, my focus is on the budget. That is most important to Edmontonians," she said.
- Postmedia opinion columnist Keith Gerein wrote that the turnover in Coun. Jennifer Rice's office has been a "poorly guarded secret" at city hall and explains why she has "often struggled to appear on top of council business." If the allegations of bullying, micromanagement, and a focus on style over substance hold true, Gerein argued that Rice must either undergo significant management training and improve her work relationships, or consider resigning her role as councillor for Ward Ipiihkoohkanipiaohtsi. "The fact that the revolving door in her office has been spinning for two years is a strong indication of dysfunction, and of a leader who is either unwilling or unable to change despite repeated evidence that her approach is counter-productive," Gerein wrote.
- City council voted on Nov. 27 in favour of a 6.6% property tax rate for 2024, down from the 7.09% administration originally proposed in the budget adjustment. The rate is still higher than the 4.96% council approved when it set the four-year budget last fall. Councillors voted in favour of a list of amendments proposed by Mayor Amarjeet Sohi, which included several cuts that will together save about $8 million annually, along with increased transit funding and more funding to respond to homeless encampments. Council also agreed to put an $8-million EPCOR dividend into a savings fund. Council is expected to finalize the budget process this week.
- The Alberta Council of Women's Shelters has released a report showing a 10-year-high in calls for help to domestic violence shelters and a lack of shelter space in the province. Between April 2022 and March 2023, 53 domestic abuse shelters answered more than 59,000 calls for help, and were unable to accommodate nearly 30,000 admission requests. Shelters helped about 8,400 people, with nearly half of them children. Executive Director Jan Reimer highlighted the urgent need for community leaders, elected officials, and businesses to work together to address the issue. Reimer noted shelters have not seen budget increases since 2015, despite rising costs and population.
- Edmonton celebrated local talent in urban design at the Edmonton Urban Design Awards gala on Nov. 24. Mayor Amarjeet Sohi presented awards in eight categories, including civic design, heritage projects, and sustainable urbanism. Among the winners were GEC Architecture for the Edmonton City Hall Plaza and Fountain, and DIALOG for Kinistinâw Park. The Roxy Theatre, designed by Group2 Architecture Interior Design, was honoured with the People's Choice Award, which is chosen by Edmontonians from all submissions.
- Federal Minister of Citizens' Services Terry Beech spoke with groups in Edmonton on Nov. 27 to promote the Canadian government's Fall 2023 Economic Statement and highlight its clean energy initiatives. Beech said in a release that the government's focus on clean energy offers environmental and economic opportunities, including new investment tax credits for sectors like carbon capture and clean technology, and expanded eligibility for investment tax credits for systems using waste biomass for electricity or heat.
- The Alberta government invoked the Alberta Sovereignty Within a United Canada Act for the first time by proposing a resolution in the legislature on Nov. 27 to reject the federal government's clean energy regulations, which aim for a net-zero electricity grid by 2035. Premier Danielle Smith said the goal is unattainable for Alberta and would result in blackouts and high energy costs. If passed, the resolution would direct provincial entities to disregard the federal regulations, and considers establishing a Crown corporation to ensure the province's electricity supply. Alberta NDP Leader Rachel Notley criticized the move as an "illegal stunt" that threatens investment, rule of law, treaty rights, and climate change efforts.
- Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid has been named one of the NHL's three stars of the week after leading the league with nine assists and 12 points in four games. McDavid, who is the league's reigning Hart Trophy, Ted Lindsay Award, Art Ross Trophy, and Maurice (Rocket) Richard Trophy winner, has accumulated 25 points in 18 games this season.
Headlines: Nov. 28, 2023
By Mariam Ibrahim