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Headlines: June 24, 2026

· The Pulse
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  • Edmonton city council has deferred the Rossdale Flats redevelopment decision to gain more input from Indigenous groups, following a contentious public hearing on June 23. The discussions highlighted concerns about preserving sacred burial grounds. The proposal includes zoning classifications to protect key views and limit flood risks. The decision will be revisited at a public hearing on July 6, following an urban planning committee meeting on July 2.
  • Edmonton city council voted to reduce parking requirements for daycares, aiming to promote walking and biking. Previously, daycares required two parking spaces for the first 10 children and one for every subsequent 10 children; now, providers need only one space per 10 children. Mayor Andrew Knack highlighted the benefits of having local daycare options to reduce car reliance.
  • Edmonton is planning a big bin pilot project in 2027 to address illegal dumping issues. Coun. Anne Stevenson pointed out that improper waste sorting contributes to overflowing bins. The City offers an excess waste program for multi-unit properties and is considering expanding free hours at Eco Stations and installing cameras to catch violators. Coun. Mike Elliott proposed using fine revenue to reimburse property owners for cleanup costs.
  • Edmonton's water system remained operational despite a heavy downpour over the weekend, EPCOR executives told city council's utilities committee on June 22. Officials said launching a storm operations centre and executing a long-term flood protection plan helped mitigate severe impacts. Coun. Anne Stevenson credited EPCOR's proactive infrastructure investments over the past decades for the resilience. Residents are advised to limit water usage to alleviate system pressure. EPCOR's 30-year plan to upgrade stormwater infrastructure includes adding storage ponds and safeguarding water treatment plants against river overflow.
  • The Stelmach Community Health Centre, the first facility in the Covenant Wellness Community in southeast Edmonton, officially opened. Named after former Alberta premier Ed Stelmach, the centre offers health services, including primary care and diagnostic imaging. Patrick Dumelie, CEO of Covenant Health, said that the centre will ease hospital pressure by relocating clinics from Grey Nuns Community Hospital. Future expansions include a senior care centre and residential housing.
  • The Edmonton Dragon Boat Racing Club is asking for the public's help in locating seven dragon boats swept away by the swelling North Saskatchewan River after heavy rain. The dock was dislodged on June 22, costing the club potentially tens of thousands of dollars. Anyone who spots the boats is asked to contact the club. The club will use rowing machines in the interim.
  • The City of Edmonton issued a reminder that property taxes are due next week. Those who fail to pay by the June 30 deadline face penalties. Options for payment include online banking, traditional mail, or in-person transactions at certain financial institutions. Property owners can also sign up for a monthly payment plan for future taxes.
  • The Edmonton Oilers have appointed Mike Babcock as head coach, making him the 19th in the team's history. The Oilers consulted with the NHL Players' Association and completed an investigation into Babcock's controversial stint with the Columbus Blue Jackets before proceeding. Known for his demanding coaching style, Babcock has a history of success, including a Stanley Cup with the Detroit Red Wings. The Oilers also appointed D.J. Smith as associate coach under Babcock. Smith's recent tenure as interim head coach with the Los Angeles Kings resulted in an 11-6-6 record from March to the end of the 2025–26 season.