- Edmonton Mayor Andrew Knack called for an overhaul of municipal funding on Nov. 5, after the 2025 federal budget was unveiled. Knack praised the budget's focus on infrastructure and housing, highlighting funding for Edmonton's Rapid Fire Theatre and Bissell Centre projects. He emphasized that municipalities, which cover up to 60% of infrastructure costs but only receive about 10 cents from every tax dollar, require stable and consistent funding rather than grants. Knack noted that Edmonton leads Canada in housing starts and is a key partner in increasing housing construction, aligning with Prime Minister Mark Carney's goals.
- Edmonton infill developers are bolstering security at their properties after police and fire officials deemed eight fires at homes under construction suspicious in recent months. Six fires occurred between Oct. 18 and Nov. 2 in King Edward Park, Belgravia, and Glenora, following two others in September in the Highlands. Sean Sedgwick of the Infill Development in Edmonton Association (IDEA) confirmed builders are implementing measures like security cameras and overnight personnel. Edmonton Fire Rescue Services Chief David Lazenby urged the public to report suspicious activity and provide camera footage. Firefighters, police, and city officials met with BILD Edmonton Metro and IDEA on Nov. 5 to discuss property protection.
- Edmonton was set to receive its first measurable snowfall the night of Nov. 5, with two to three centimetres in the city and five to 10 centimetres north of Edmonton in the forecast. Drivers should prepare for slushy conditions and potential traffic disruptions as temperatures hover near zero through the morning of Nov. 6. While more snow could fall on Nov. 7, warmer weather is expected by early next week.
- The Edmonton Police Service held a change of command ceremony for new Chief Warren Driechel at city hall on Nov. 5. Driechel said he will boost community policing and collaborations with social agencies to address issues like social disorder, addictions, and homelessness. Mayor Andrew Knack noted community safety is Edmontonians' top concern, despite a 6% drop in the crime rate in 2024.
- Nursing care staff who are members of the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees have voted 98% in favour of strike action, citing stagnant wages and unsafe conditions. AUPE President Sandra Azocar announced on Nov. 5 that the 16,000 members, primarily licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and healthcare aides, are prepared to strike as early as Nov. 17 if ongoing mediation with Alberta Health Services fails. Alberta Finance Minister Nate Horner criticized the union's demands for 40-55% salary increases for LPNs and reduced hours, stating it would cost Albertans more than $2 billion and is not market-based, noting LPNs' education differs from registered nurses. AHS's offer includes a 12% wage increase over four years.
- University of Alberta education students and faculty protested against the province's Bill 2, the Back to School Act, which used the Charter's notwithstanding clause to legislate 51,000 teachers back to work and enforce a contract. Students expressed concerns about future job prospects and negotiation rights regarding salaries and class sizes, with some considering leaving Alberta. The province maintains its offer is fair and plans to hire 3,000 teachers and establish a task force on class sizes.
- Alberta Health Services will trial a high-tech weapons detection system at the Royal Alexandra Hospital (RAH) emergency department in Edmonton. This two-year pilot aims to reduce rising violence against healthcare workers. The Health Sciences Association of Alberta reports increased incidents, making safety a growing concern. The AI-powered system detects knives and firearms, with RAH chosen due to its higher security needs. If successful, the technology could expand to other Alberta health facilities.
- Alberta Sheriffs said they closed a problem property in west Edmonton at 15812 110A Avenue Northwest for 90 days, effective Nov. 5, due to extensive criminal activity. The property garnered more than 40 police visits in five months, with residents reporting drug influence and suspected thefts. The Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods unit will monitor the property until Feb. 3.
- The YMCA of Northern Alberta has appointed Katherine O'Neill as its new president and CEO, making her the first woman to hold the position. O'Neill, who previously served as CEO of YWCA Edmonton, brings a strong background in nonprofit leadership, the organization said.
- The Anglican Diocese of Edmonton expressed concerns on Nov. 5 regarding the Alberta government's use of the notwithstanding clause to force striking teachers back to work. Bishop Stephen London wrote an open letter stating that invoking the clause to end the provincewide teachers' strike threatens religious freedoms and the Charter right to freedom of association. He urged Premier Danielle Smith to remove the legislation, calling the decision "moral and spiritual." The province defended its action as preserving legislative sovereignty and being in the public interest.
- Recall organizers say the UCP is limiting Elections Alberta funding, hindering democratic efforts. A UCP-dominated legislative committee approved only $1.5 million for Elections Alberta, despite Chief Electoral Officer Gordon McClure's request for $13.5 million. The funding is needed to process recall petitions, citizen initiatives, and prepare for a 2026 provincial referendum. McClure said the funding shortfall prevents processing petitions within legal timelines. Recall campaigns are targeting several UCP MLAs, including Dale Nally, minister for Service Alberta, in Morinville-St. Albert.
Headlines: Nov. 6, 2025
By Mariam Ibrahim