- Edmonton is gaining recognition as a leader in urban planning and densification in North America, particularly for its focus on "missing middle" housing, which includes diverse, low-density housing options like duplexes, row houses, and small apartment buildings. The city introduced new zoning bylaws in early 2024 to promote these types of developments, which aim to create more walkable, people-centric communities. "Edmonton is very progressive in terms of policy and regulations, but we didn't get here overnight. It happened slowly and incrementally over time," said Chelsey Jersak, president of the Infill Development in Edmonton Association. The approach is part of Edmonton's long-term vision to accommodate significant population growth without expanding city limits.
- Edmonton Fire Rescue Services is marking Fire Prevention Week by reminding residents of the importance of maintaining working smoke alarms to prevent residential fire damage. Last year, 623 residential fires in Edmonton caused $63.1 million in damages, with 45% of high-risk fires lacking smoke alarms. The fire department is urging residents to test alarms monthly, change batteries annually, and replace devices every 10 years.
- Bird Friendly Edmonton is holding a vote to select Edmonton's City Bird from six candidates: Blue Jay, Downy Woodpecker, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Black-billed Magpie, Boreal Chickadee, and Northern Saw-whet Owl. The organization said it consulted with hundreds of naturalists and local community members to narrow the list down to the six contenders. The vote will be held in two rounds, with the first ending on Dec. 31 and the second concluding on March 31.
- Edmonton's Palestinian and Jewish communities are marking the one-year anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel and Israel's military assault on Gaza with rallies and events. The Canada Palestine Cultural Association has been holding weekly rallies across Edmonton in solidarity with Palestinians, including one over the weekend, while the Jewish Federation of Edmonton organized remembrance ceremonies and discussions.
- Eligible Albertans can now make respiratory virus immunization appointments through the province's online booking system, with openings for the general public starting Oct. 15 for COVID-19 and influenza, and Oct. 21 for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Seniors in continuing care and those aged 75 and older in the community have access to the publicly funded Abrysvo vaccine for RSV.
- The Alberta government is seeking financial compensation from the federal government for the costs to rebuild Jasper after a July wildfire destroyed one-third of the town's buildings. Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services Mike Ellis told a federal committee this week that while the province had limited decision-making power in the fire's aftermath because of the national park's federal jurisdiction, the province is still responsible for most of the recovery costs. Ellis said the province wants the federal government to waive a disaster recovery cost-sharing agreement since the fire originated in the national park.
- The Edmonton Oilers, coming off a lukewarm pre-season with a 3-5 record, are preparing for the regular season with a focus on addressing any lingering issues to ensure a strong start. The team is eager to rebound and is aiming for the championship after falling one goal short of winning the Stanley Cup last season.
Headlines: Oct. 8, 2024
By Mariam Ibrahim