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Headlines: Sept. 17, 2026

· The Pulse
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  • Five former Edmonton mayors, including Amarjeet Sohi, Don Iveson, Stephen Mandel, Bill Smith, and Jan Reimer, addressed issues facing the city, such as homelessness, downtown safety, and infrastructure at an event on Sept. 15. Iveson lamented the ongoing homelessness crisis and its effect people's perception of safety downtown, while Mandel criticized the current administration, calling downtown a "crap hole" and urging city employees to return to work at downtown offices. Current Edmonton Mayor Andrew Knack responded to Mandel's criticism , saying that differing opinions are natural in politics and emphasizing ongoing efforts to address Edmonton's challenges through planning and community involvement.
  • The Edmonton Police Service is warning the public about a spate of distraction-type robberies targeting South Asian seniors. The crimes involve suspects approaching victims under false pretenses, such as needing directions or pretending to be acquaintances, to distract and then rob them. Authorities emphasized the importance of staying aware of one's surroundings and protecting personal belongings.
  • Edmonton's commercial real estate spending declined in the second quarter of 2026 following a vibrant first quarter. The multi-family sector saw a drop from $648.7 million to $204.9 million in investment activity, reflecting a market absorption phase. Meanwhile, significant retail transactions occurred, with the purchase of Kingsway Mall by Montreal-based Westcliff Management, which plans minimal immediate changes, and the City Centre Mall ownership shift to Edmonton's Westrich Pacific, which will convert unused space into 1,500 residential units. Suburban retail activity remains concentrated around grocery hubs.
  • Edmonton was the only Canadian city that Oxford Economics included in a new North American "cities to watch" list. The 2026 Global Cities Index called the city an "emerging star" and projected its employment and population will grow at the second-fastest rate among Canadian and U.S. cities over the next five years.
  • A Parkland Institute report criticizes Alberta's upcoming referendum, which includes five immigration-related questions. The report, authored by Bronwyn Bragg from the University of Lethbridge, argues that these questions unfairly blame immigrant communities for strains on public services amidst challenges like doctor shortages and overcrowded classrooms. The report contends that the questions rely on problematic anti-immigrant tropes, while a government spokesperson dismissed the claims as inflammatory, stating that the questions address unsustainable immigration pressures.
  • St. Albert city council is considering bylaw changes to boost infill development, allowing increased residential growth along St. Albert Trail, and introducing skinnier homes with single driveways in low-density neighbourhoods. The city's planning branch highlighted the need for diverse housing options amidst population decline in over half of the city's residential areas. Proponents argue that this will support walkability and transit use, while opponents cite traffic and infrastructure concerns. Council is set to continue the discussions on Oct. 6.
  • Edmonton Oilers General Manager Stan Bowman stood behind the team's decision to sign Alex Formenton, despite widespread public backlash. Formenton was acquitted of sexual assault charges. Hockey Canada upheld the suspensions of four other players in the case, but reinstated Formenton immediately. Fans are split over the decision, with some supporting Formenton's return and others demanding his removal. Bowman said the team did its due diligence while making the decision. Meanwhile, the Oilers opened their training camp on Sept. 16. Injuries prevented key players like Frederik Andersen and Matt Savoie from joining the camp, which could affect the team's preparations as the season approaches.