- The Edmonton Police Service will spend $16.2 million over five years to equip officers with body-worn cameras. The Edmonton Police Commission approved the purchase through a non-competitive process, and while the province mandated the use of cameras, it has not committed to covering any costs. The police service says it will use existing funding without seeking budget increases.
- Edmonton Fire Rescue Services says it plans to introduce fines for repeated false fire alarm calls, which have increased by about 60% over the past five years. So far this year, about 90% of the 13,914 alarm calls were deemed unnecessary. Starting next year, homeowners could face fines ranging from $100 to $1,000, while other property owners could be fined between $400 and $1,500. The proposed bylaw changes, supported by city council's community and public services committee, are intended to prevent false alarms and reduce the strain on fire department resources.
- The Edmonton Police Service released a video showing an elaborate encampment discovered near Fulton Creek in southeast Edmonton, complete with solar panels, generators, and appliances. Police said they also found stolen goods and weapons at the site, which housed five people and was camouflaged with tarps and branches. Officers and city officials dismantled the site, which they said was at risk of collapse and posed safety risks.
- During her visit to Edmonton, Gov. Gen. Mary Simon shared her personal experiences with hate speech on social media, which led to the decision to disable online comments on her posts. Simon, who was appointed as Canada's first Indigenous governor general in 2021, noted the issue particularly affects women and marginalized groups. "We must work together to minimize the impacts of online attacks and to acknowledge each other's experiences and to identify or develop solutions," she said.
- The Edmonton Oilers are struggling through the start of the NHL season, a challenge now compounded by the loss of team captain Connor McDavid to a lower-body injury sustained early in a 6-1 defeat against the Columbus Blue Jackets this week. With McDavid out and the team underperforming, fans are anxiously awaiting updates on his condition and the length of his absence. Meanwhile, the Oilers announced they have recalled forwards Noah Philp and Drake Caggiula from the AHL's Bakersfield Condors.
- The Alberta government is seeking a judicial review of the federal government's exemption of the carbon levy on home heating oil, arguing it's unfair to Albertans who use natural gas for heating. Premier Danielle Smith argued the carbon levy adds financial strain, and the way it is being applied is unconstitutional and unlawful. The federal government says the levy is part of its efforts to combat climate changes and noted it provides rebates to Canadians.
- Purdys Chocolatier will open six pop-up shops across Canada this holiday season, including one at South Edmonton Common. The pop-ups open Nov. 1.
Headlines: Oct. 30, 2024
By Mariam Ibrahim