Headlines: Dec. 20, 2023

Dec. 20, 2023 · The Pulse
By Mariam Ibrahim

Edmonton Fire Rescue Services Chief Joe Zatylny said in his year-end interviews that the city's homeless encampments are "extremely unsafe" and must be removed for public safety, citing serious fires that have caused injuries and fatalities, including two deaths in November. Fire Rescue Services has responded to 105 encampment fires so far in 2023. Zatylny emphasized the need for resources and support to dismantle the camps and assist Edmonton's vulnerable population. Meanwhile, a court has allowed the Edmonton Police Service to remove tents at eight high-risk encampments before the holidays, provided they meet certain conditions, such as ensuring adequate shelter space and notifying residents in advance. A lawsuit filed by the Coalition for Justice and Human Rights against the city's encampment response is scheduled to be heard in court on Jan. 11.
Edmonton Public Schools board chair Julie Kusiek and Edmonton Catholic Schools board chair Sandra Palazzo reflected on the pressures and successes of 2023, including significant student enrolment growth experienced by both school divisions. Edmonton Public Schools have added about 10,000 new students in the past two years, while the Catholic division has added about 4,500 new students in the same period. Kusiek also highlighted the introduction of a business and innovation program set for September 2024 and the construction of new schools, including Elder Dr. Francis Whiskeyjack School. Meanwhile, Palazzo celebrated the construction of inclusive playgrounds and the anticipated openings of three new schools, with Father Michael McCaffery Catholic High School set to open in September 2024, St. Josephine Bakhita Catholic Elementary/Junior High School in September 2025, and Blessed Carlo Acutis Catholic High School in September 2026.
The city will host New Year's Eve celebrations at Churchill Square and City Hall Plaza on Dec. 31 with free activities and entertainment. The festivities will include a fireworks show at 9pm for families, along with a traditional midnight show. Road closures will be in effect around the event area, and Edmonton Transit Service will offer free service from 6pm on Dec. 31 until around 3am on Jan. 1. The ICE District will host a free New Year's Eve party featuring a live watch party for the Edmonton Oilers game, followed by performances from Canadian country artists and midnight fireworks. All festivities are weather permitting and Edmontonians are encouraged to check the city's website for up-to-date information.
A new report warns that the Edmonton region could face a $4 billion annual loss by 2050 due to global heating, projecting a rise in mean winter temperature and increased risks of wildfires and extreme weather. However, the report suggests that investing $5,700 per person in climate action measures could prevent the losses. The study, accepted by the Edmonton Metropolitan Region Board at its Dec. 14 meeting, highlights potential health costs, including $1.75 billion from heat-related impacts and wildfire smoke. The report recommends 24 actions, including regional plans for wildfire reduction and building standards for extreme heat.
Edmonton's Food Bank and the Salvation Army experienced record-setting demand in 2023. The Food Bank served 34,000 people monthly and distributed 400,000 snacks and meals through partner programs. The increased demand is attributed to economic challenges faced by Albertans, including a nearly 6% rise in food prices and a 16% increase in rental rates. A survey of 1,500 Canadians done by the Salvation Army found that 20% are struggling to cover their basic needs. Despite the challenges, both organizations said Albertans have given generously in 2023.
EPCOR and the Edmonton Oil Kings are partnering to promote safe winter activities for families in Edmonton, providing more than 90 grants to community leagues for secure skating rinks and raising awareness about the hazards of stormwater ponds. The campaign includes outdoor events featuring Oil Kings members, social media engagement, and public safety messages at games to ensure fans enjoy winter sports safely.
Edmonton's Oliver neighbourhood was profiled in a Canadian Architect article by Kalen Anderson, the CEO of the Urban Development Institute - Edmonton Metro. Among the elements showcased were the 102 Avenue bike lane, dubbed locally as the "Oliverbahn," as well as seven development sites representing a collective $529 million in private investment. The article notes Oliver is "one of the most populated neighbourhoods in this part of western Canada," with growth expected to continue.
Alberta's Ethics Commissioner, Marguerite Trussler, has concluded an investigation into the revocation of Dr. Deena Hinshaw's job offer with the Indigenous Wellness Core at Alberta Health Services, finding no evidence of private interest being furthered by former AHS administrator Dr. John Cowell. Trussler determined that Cowell did not direct Hinshaw's dismissal from the position and that the process was properly followed. Trussler said she also received complaints against Premier Danielle Smith regarding the matter but did not pursue an investigation because of investigative limits within provincial legislation, which distinguishes between personal and political interests.
The Edmonton Oilers will not have a prospect participating in the World Junior Championships for the first time since 2008, breaking a 15-year streak of representation in the tournament. The team's most promising prospect for the event, Beau Akey, can't compete because of a season-ending shoulder injury, and no other prospects are in contention for their national teams.