Headlines: Nov. 27, 2024

Nov. 27, 2024 · The Pulse
By Mariam Ibrahim

The City of Edmonton is updating its migrant inclusion policy to better support the growing immigrant population. The policy, presented to council's community and public services committee, aims to ensure equitable access to municipal services and resources. It outlines guidance for addressing challenges faced by migrants, such as employment and housing.
Alberta RCMP are investigating the death of a 33-year-old Edmonton man who died after participating in a mixed martial arts event in Enoch. The charity event, organized by Ultra MMA, featured novice fighters and raised concerns among some participants about the level of medical supervision and regulation on site. The death follows a recent fatality inquiry report calling for changes in combative sports regulation in Alberta.
City councillors on the urban planning committee reviewed a report outlining the effects of a potential cut to Edmonton's neighborhood renewal budget by 25% and 35%. "I think scaling back by 25%, that is going to have huge impact on communities and neighbourhoods. For me, that is not a goal," Mayor Amarjeet Sohi said. The program's costs are being reviewed as councillors grapple with budget pressures and a proposed 8.1% tax increase in 2025. City council will begin budget discussions next week.
Edmontonians can donate non-perishable food and funds to support local food banks during the 30th annual ETS Stuff a Bus campaign, running from Nov. 27 to Dec. 1. Donations can be made at participating Save-On-Foods locations, online, or via text. The fundraiser is a collaboration between Edmonton Transit Service, Strathcona County Transit Service, and Save-On-Foods.
The Alberta government announced plans to open a $23-million Northern Alberta Youth Recovery Centre in 2026 by renovating part of the Edmonton Young Offender Centre to add 105 recovery beds. The facility, separate from the corrections centre, will treat up to 300 young people with addictions annually, including those mandated into treatment under provincial legislation. Some questioned the appropriateness of the centre's location next to a correctional facility, but the province said the plan will allow it to open treatment beds more quickly.
CTV News explored the accessibility of Edmonton concert venues, finding that while there are efforts to improve accessibility for people with disabilities, challenges remain. Raven Van Camp, a wheelchair user, reviewed accessibility features at the Winspear Centre and Rogers Place. CTV published details on the accessibility of several other venues in the city.
Edmonton Police Service Det. Michael Bates has been charged with assault following an investigation into an incident at Corona LRT Station in January. The police service said Bates remains on active duty in a non-patrol and non-supervisory role. No other details about the incident were released.
Expedia released its Canadian winter travel trends report, highlighting Canada's top destinations. Edmonton was fourth on a list of 10 trending destinations for winter, ninth among the most searched destinations this winter, and fifth among the most searched destinations over the Christmas holidays. The outlook also shows American interest in cities like Vancouver, Québec City, and Banff has surged.