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Headlines: Nov. 4, 2026

· The Pulse
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  • Edmonton Mayor Andrew Knack gave an initial nod to the proposed 2027 to 2030 budgets, which include a 4.9% property tax increase for 2027 and a $6.3 billion capital plan. Coun. Reed Clarke supported the proposed $100 million for road widening, while Coun. Erin Rutherford favoured renewing existing arterial roads. Global News reported criticism of rising property taxes as the city proposed more funding for policing and snow clearing.
  • Mayor Andrew Knack asked Alberta to expand Edmonton's enforcement powers against builders who repeatedly break rules. He wants the city to revoke business licences and impose fines above the current $10,000 maximum. Knack also sought sanctions to prevent builders from reopening under new company names.
  • The Edmonton Police Service said an international cellphone scam linked to call centres in Pakistan has caused an estimated $20 million in losses for Edmontonians. Fraudsters impersonated telecommunications providers, offering free or discounted phones before redirecting shipments and reselling the devices. Police have received about 100 reports this year and charged a 31-year-old with fraud over $5,000 and two other offences. Information from the investigation helped international authorities disrupt several suspected call centres in Lahore, Pakistan. Police are warning residents to verify unsolicited cellphone offers directly with their service providers.
  • The RCMP began terrorism peace bond proceedings against a 17-year-old Albertan after arresting the youth over alleged online correspondence with ISIS-affiliated users. The youth was released with conditions; a terrorism peace bond is a preventative court order that can restrict travel and electronic communications.
  • The Alberta government introduced Bill 38, which would require post-secondary institutions to remain neutral on political issues. The bill would also cap tuition increases at 2% for Canadian students in the 2027-2028 academic year. Advanced Education Minister Myles McDougall said the neutrality requirement would not apply to students, faculty, or administrators as individuals.
  • Premier Danielle Smith defended proposed urban-rural electoral ridings, while Justice Minister Mickey Amery said he expected a legislature motion on Nov. 4. The Rural Municipalities of Alberta, which began its four-day convention at the Edmonton Convention Centre on Nov. 2, warned that hybrid ridings could dilute rural representation. Alberta NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi promised a court challenge if the legislature approved the proposed boundaries.