Speaking Municipally

Taproot Edmonton reporter Colin Gallant joins us to discuss making Edmonton's housing more financially accessible, the Valley Line LRT's first anniversary, and the future of retail downtown.Here are the relevant links for this episode:UpdatesNews Release: Fifth case of Dutch elm disease confirmed in EdmontonNews Release: City launches Assisted Snow Removal Program PilotCity of Edmonton proposes 8.1% tax hike in 2025 to cover higher costsHousingHow should Edmonton grow to make housing more accessible?Housing ComplexValley Line LRTCity underlines successes and challenges as the Valley Line LRT turns oneDowntown retailAs Foosh debuts downtown, experts suggest retail needs focus to thriveFrom the Taproot newsroomYEG hopes visitors will stay and play at the airportOn the agenda: Garneau rezoning, utility rate changes, council office budgetElection update (no not that one)2025 Edmonton General Election | Register of CandidatesTroy's tweetRapid fireHundreds attend Edmonton protest against Alberta government's trans legislationDowntown Edmonton residential tower could rise higher than plannedAlberta enabling Halal mortgages, implementing promised electric vehicle taxSpeaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free! ★ Support this podcast ★

The Downtown Investment Plan remains a hot topic of discussion. This week, we speak with Shani Gwin, a Métis woman, downtown business owner, AI entrepreneur, and DBA board member, for her take.Here are the relevant links for this episode:GuestsShani Gwin on LinkedInpipikwan pêhtâkwanDowntown Investment PlanDowntown Investment Plan (PDF)News Release: DIP INTO DOWNTOWN: Solutions for Edmonton's Financial Future — Strategic Investment in Downtown (PDF)wâsikan kisewâtisiwinwâsikan kisewâtisiwinNews Release: Edmonton startup wâsikan kisewâtisiwin selected as a 2024 Solver Team by MIT SolveFrom the Taproot newsroomWould building more supply slow Edmonton's rising home prices?New head of Social Enterprise Fund dreams of changeRapid fireKeith Gerein: Court delay serves no one except the political fortunes of Edmonton Coun. Jennifer RiceSetting off alarms by cooking? Edmonton's fire department could send you a billElaborate village-like encampment with power, water dismantled in south EdmontonSpeaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free! ★ Support this podcast ★

This week, we're getting an early start on winter by talking about snow and ice control. We speak with Mark Beare and Val Dacyk from the City of Edmonton about service standards for clearing roadways and active pathways, how much people love the snow plow map, how big the snow clearing operation is, what it would take to clear sidewalks, where your tax dollars go, and much more.Here are the relevant links for this episode:GuestsMark Beare on LinkedInValerie Dacyk on LinkedInSnow and ice controlNews Release: City launches updated Snow and Ice Control ProgramRoadways Snow Clearing MapActive Pathways Snow Clearing MapCommunity SandboxesWinter Travel2022: Apparent jump in snow-clearing kilometres not all that it seems2023: City seeks input on sandbox program for ice controlFrom the Taproot newsroomHousing ComplexIntroducing Housing Complex, a special project from Taproot EdmontonHome truths: In Edmonton's housing system, some win, some lose, and many feel conflictedRapid fireEdmonton won't add optional criminal record checks for council candidatesEdmonton boo-levard becomes Candy Corn Lane for HalloweenSpeaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free! ★ Support this podcast ★

A new report published by a coalition of business leaders calls for nearly $500 million of investment in Edmonton's downtown. We talk with the report's authors, Alexandra Hryciw and Jason Syvixay, about the action items, and what they hope to achieve.Here are the relevant links for this episode:GuestsAlexandra Hryciw on LinkedInDowntown Revitalization CoalitionJason Syvixay on LinkedInBILD Edmonton MetroDowntown Investment PlanDowntown Investment Plan (PDF)News Release: DIP INTO DOWNTOWN: Solutions for Edmonton's Financial Future — Strategic Investment in Downtown (PDF)Opinion: Now is the time to invest in Edmonton's downtownBusiness leaders call on governments to invest in downtown EdmontonHousing Accelerator Fund - City of EdmontonFrom the Taproot newsroomHousing pilot tests if connecting people can boost inclusionEdmonton on track to approve one garden suite a day in 2024How NorthwestFEARFest's boss put his life into filmRapid fireEdmonton park rangers shooting plastic bullets at aggressive coyotesLaw society to sanction former Alberta justice minister Kaycee Madu$7M Alberta advertising campaign against oil and gas emissions cap rolling out in 5 provincesThe 2024 Canadian Open Data Summit takes place in Edmonton on Oct. 30 and 31, with a full day of programming on Oct. 29 focused on generative AI. The event features keynotes, panels, workshops, and more. Themes for this year's event include data perspectives on the housing crisis, the power of open science, and how sharing commercial data has led to competitive advantages for businesses. Registration is now open.Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free! ★ Support this podcast ★

Council heard more about the fiscal gap, though no action was taken yet. Plus, the latest transit ridership numbers, the Stadium Station redesign, whether to continue planting elm trees, and how this winter's approach to encampments will look a lot like last winter's despite increased need.Here are the relevant links for this episode:Fiscal gapEdmonton seeking solutions to fix grim 'fiscal gap'Edmonton's Funding Dilemma: Collaboration Over Confrontation - Tim CartmellEdmonton mayor's letter to province asks for fair treatment in next year's budgetKeith Gerein: Edmonton's mayor steps up, but will he take a swing?Calgary and province announce agreement to move forward on part of Green Line LRTTransit ridershipNews Release: Transit ridership outpaces population growthEdmonton transit ridership up 14% in 2024Edmonton Transit to stop selling paper tickets, monthly passes as of Nov. 9Stadium StationStadium Station redesign sees calls for service drop by 50%Elm treesTree expert sees ways to avoid nightmare on elm-lined streetsHealth Streets pilotEdmonton 'healthy streets' Chinatown safety hub shutting downEncampmentsEdmonton police chief on the winter encampment strategyEdmonton has spent $225k fencing off former encampment sites in the first nine months of 2024Alberta and Edmonton at odds over data on homeless navigation centreEdmonton city council to get more information on encampment closure risksRegional drivers'We're subsidizing the region': 32% of drivers on Edmonton roads don't live in the city, report findsEdmonton has a 'free rider problem' on its roads, new report saysFrom the Taproot newsroomAlberta Ecotrust aims to accelerate building retrofitsProvincial Priorities Act could hurt Alberta's priorities, says academicTransit riders organize to push for improved service and communityRapid fireRecap: Winnipeg 6, Edmonton 0News Release: Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!City Bird : Vote - Bird Friendly EdmontonThe 2024 Canadian Open Data Summit takes place in Edmonton on Oct. 30 and 31, with a full day of programming on Oct. 29 focused on generative AI. The event features keynotes, panels, workshops, and more. Themes for this year's event include data perspectives on the housing crisis, the power of open science, and how sharing commercial data has led to competitive advantages for businesses. Registration is now open.Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free! ★ Support this podcast ★

Edmonton is going to have to pay much more for elections, but we can't say why without risking a $787 million settlement. Plus, we've got some news about district planning.Here are the relevant links for this episode:Property taxSohi launches campaign to ask province for more municipal supportEdmonton, other municipalities ask province to pay its property taxesFair Compensation ProjectElection costsOn the agenda: Bill 20, district planning, 124 Street highriseThe Alberta government banned electronic vote tabulators. Municipalities want it to reconsiderDistrict plansNews Release: District Policy and plans approved for next milestone in City's planning modernizationNew district policy, plans including 15-minute cities concept OK'd by Edmonton city councilOld StrathconaWhyte Avenue and Old Strathcona plans: less parking, more parksNew towersMill Woods Town Centre: New grocery store, rental towers built in 2025Edmonton city council approves rezoning proposal for 31-storey tower on Jasper AvenueFrom the Taproot newsroomPedestrian-only Rice Howard Way continues into fallNongBu is closed but continues to shape city's food sceneTree expert sees ways to avoid nightmare on elm-lined streetsRapid fireAlberta government drops idea of expanding liquor sales to grocers, convenience storesCanadian Finals Rodeo kicks off with surprise Downtown Edmonton cattle driveEarth's General Store closes despite crowdfunding effort to save the businessDiscover Our Climate Quest, a Canadian exhibition packed with fun, interactive activities for all ages. Explore carbon capture pinball, solar panels in action, Indigenous Ways of Knowing, and much more. Level up your climate science knowledge and get inspired for our sustainable future! Opening Oct. 5 at TELUS World of Science - Edmonton! Learn moreSpeaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free! ★ Support this podcast ★

This week, we discuss the new Edmonton sign, a new poll about the mayor and city council, new crashes into the LRT, and a new report on Canada's municipalities. Plus, updates on ChargeStop, homelessness, and the 2021 mayoral race.Here are the relevant links for this episode:ChargeStopChargeStop builds Canada's first dedicated EV station in StrathconaEdmonton signNews Release: How do you spell colour, light and sparkle? E-D-M-O-N-T-O-N!Troy's tweetMichelle Sound's postMichelle SoundCrystal Lee ClarkCouncil pollOnly 1 in 4 Edmontonians think Sohi, city councillors should be re-elected: CityNews pollTroy's Reddit comment2021 election update3 mayoral candidates sanctioned for overspending in 2021 Edmonton electionHomelessnessNumber of people living unhoused in Edmonton up 47% in 2024: DataSenate reportChallenges and Opportunities for Canadian Municipalities | Senator Paula SimonsPaula's LinkedIn postNeighbourhood planningOpinion: Citywide plans diminish diversity of Edmonton neighbourhoodsLRT crashesTwo crashes involving Edmonton's Valley Line LRT in two daysEdmonton LRT train involved in crash after vehicle drives onto tracks: ETSFrom the Taproot newsroomDevelopers urge Edmonton to follow B.C. on single-egress buildingsWhy one shop owner traded a storefront for a shipping containerSupport to address hoarding in Edmonton is running outRapid fireMost non-homeowners in Edmonton feel buying own home is out of reach: CityNews pollWhy American food chains are choosing EdmontonThis episode is brought to you by Park Power, your friendly, local utilities provider (and title sponsor of Taproot's Regional Roundup). Park Power offers electricity, natural gas, and internet to homes, businesses, and farms throughout Alberta. Learn more at parkpower.ca.Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free! ★ Support this podcast ★

Council has decided to keep their representatives on the police commission, at least for now. Plus, we talk LRT station fare gates, EVs, bike lanes, and more.Here are the relevant links for this episode:Police commissionEdmonton won't remove city councillors from police commission, for nowAlberta hiring CEO for 'massive' new agency to investigate complaints against policeFare gatesEdmonton eyes two-year LRT fare gates pilot for Churchill and Belvedere stationsOn the agenda: Transit fare gates, affordable housing, tax forgivenessFinancial disclosures'Relevant': Edmonton to make city council's financial disclosures publicChargeStopSnacks, seating and super-fast charging: What to expect at Edmonton's new EV-only service stationBike lanes and indexAn Edmonton bike lane crumbles 1 month after constructionHow the Edmonton police bike index reunites owners with stolen wheelsFrom the Taproot newsroomIDEA's new leader targets barriers that can limit housingDocuseries explores Edmonton communities through foodAs community leagues prepare to celebrate, more people are volunteeringRapid fireFort Saskatchewan mayor apologizes for comments about killing feral catsGondek urges premier to find 'most cost-effective solution' as province reviews Green Line LRTNews Release: New Northbound overpass on 50 Street opens to traffic, marking key project milestoneSpeaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free! ★ Support this podcast ★

This week, Mack and Stephanie speak with Coun. Andrew Knack about his decision not to seek re-election in next year's municipal election. They also discuss the city's $34 million budget shortfall.Here are the relevant links for this episode:Andrew Knack@andrewknackAndrew Knack on LinkedInThe Toughest Decision I've Ever Made — Andrew KnackBudgetCity of Edmonton projecting $34M deficit for end of 2024News Release: Statement on Q2 2024 Financial UpdateFrom the Taproot newsroomVancouver and Toronto companies relocating to Edmonton regionElev and Five Oaks launch student housing project called The HiveRUNWITHIT Synthetics secures $3.5M investment to put its tools into more handsTech Roundup: Sept. 10, 2024Rapid fireEdmonton Police Service begins rollout of body-worn camerasMcDavid on living in Edmonton'Female rage': Edmonton woman sparks airplane 'manspreading' debateThis episode was brought to you by Life Sciences Week, celebrating Alberta's thriving life sciences sector from Sept. 23 to 27. Explore cutting-edge research, network with industry leaders, and witness groundbreaking innovations. Whether you're a student, entrepreneur, or investor, there's something for everyone. Taproot is proud to be a media sponsor of Life Sciences Week.Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free! ★ Support this podcast ★

This week, the province has all but banned photo radar in Alberta. Plus, we have more problems with composting, and cars driving into trains.Here are the relevant links for this episode:Police commissionEdmonton city council to weigh police commission request to remove council positions from boardPhoto radarNot so fast: Edmonton non-profit, city councillor push back on proposed plan to restrict photo radarValley Line LRT15 collisions between vehicles and trains on Edmonton's Valley Line since opening: cityPaquette's planEdmonton councillor reveals his money plan to avoid more cuts or tax hikesWaste collection'It's frustrating': Edmonton councillors say organics processing plan need more detailsOn the agenda: Compost capacity, new risks, city managerFrom the Taproot newsroomPanel suggests Edmonton struggles to promote itselfLeduc residential construction 'going like gangbusters'CarePros growth spurs new company and product launchEvents Roundup: Sept. 5, 2024Rapid fireVolunteer snake wranglers have hands full protecting at-risk reptiles from Edmonton roadsNews Release: First appearance of Dutch Elm Disease in EdmontonAlberta Legislature security personnel able to carry guns as of SundayThis episode was brought to you by Life Sciences Week, celebrating Alberta's thriving life sciences sector from Sept. 23 to 27. Explore cutting-edge research, network with industry leaders, and witness groundbreaking innovations. Whether you're a student, entrepreneur, or investor, there's something for everyone. Taproot is proud to be a media sponsor of Life Sciences Week.Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free! ★ Support this podcast ★

Council decided to stick with a smaller, previously-approved increase to transit fares, instead of asking for a big increase. We also discuss council procedures, BRT, shelter standards and locations, and the city's approach to major projects.Here are the relevant links for this episode:Fringe wrapEdmonton Fringe $72K short of fundraising goal as festival draws to a closeMHCare Medical Donates $58,000 to Support FringeCouncil proceduresMinutes for the item at the Aug. 20, 2024 city council meetingTransit costsEdmonton to fill $10M gap in revenue to keep low-income transit programEdmonton transit may double monthly costs for seniors in 2025 with steep hikes for ARC and cash faresEdmonton mayor wants Alberta government's help to keep low-income transit program afloatBRTQ&A: Could bus rapid transit improve Edmonton's transit system?Project managementNo New Projects Without A New Management Approach — Tim CartmellMinutes for the item at the Aug. 20, 2024 city council meetingProject Management Audit (March 2022) — Andrew KnackShelter standardsOpinion: Full picture needed on encampment debateOn the agenda: Transit fare increase, shelter standards, affordable housingEdmonton councillors say heavy industrial areas not suitable for homeless sheltersWhere should new shelters go in Edmonton?630 CHEDCorus Entertainment's 630 CHED moving up the AM dialCorus Entertainment 'aggressively' cutting costs, laying off more employees as revenue slumpsFrom the Taproot newsroomTaproot launches an Events RoundupAlberta oil to become carbon fibre in new Edmonton facilityEdmonton is a city filled with stones, bones, and ancient historyEvents promote women and girls to throw TDs or drop inRapid fireAlberta premier reveals plans to transfer hospitals away from AHSPSA: Police commission member recruitment underwayHere's how Edmonton's commute time stacks up against other Canadian spotsSpeaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free! ★ Support this podcast ★

We interrupt your Fringe-ing to discuss proposed compensation for businesses along Stony Plain Road, a big budget shortfall and potential tax hike, transit fare increases, and the new owner of the Edmonton Elks.Here are the relevant links for this episode:Stony Plain rejectionCity council rejects grant program for Stony Plain Road businesses struggling through LRT workScheduled LRT work complete on Stony Plain Road, but road to stay closedBudget shortfallEdmonton budget shortfall risks bigger property tax hike in 2025, city warnsTransit faresEdmonton planning to hike transit fares next year to make up for $13M budget shortfallEdmonton ElksNew Edmonton Elks owner says classic 'EE' logo to drive the team's brandingNew Edmonton Elks owner says classic 'Double E' logo to drive the team's brandingJennifer RiceCourt order stops misconduct sanction hearing for Edmonton Coun. Jennifer Rice until judicial reviewTim CartmellEdmonton councillor wants project management overhaul, claiming delays and 'wasted dollars'From the Taproot newsroomHow a bison head helped change the Pioneers Cabin into the Bison LodgeEdmonton Global's listening tour will lead to change: BruceRapid fireTake a Risk: It's the Most Fringe Thing You Can DoBack to light: The historic Western Cycle neon sign is up in Edmonton againTony Caterina's comment on FacebookThis episode is brought to you by Park Power, your friendly, local utilities provider (and title sponsor of Taproot's Regional Roundup). Park Power offers electricity, natural gas, and internet to homes, businesses, and farms throughout Alberta. Learn more at parkpower.ca.Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free! ★ Support this podcast ★

We're back from our summer break! Council is also back, even though they still managed to make some headlines over the summer. We encourage you to check out the Fringe, debate the former Royal Alberta Museum, and consider potential changes to council procedures.Here are the relevant links for this episode:FringeEdmonton Fringe facing $200K shortfall ahead of festival kickoff next weekJennifer RiceEdmonton Coun. Jennifer Rice seeks court orders to toss misconduct investigation and stop sanction hearingAllard benchesSouth Edmonton community frustrated after benches, crossing bridge removed from parkRoyal Alberta Museum'Belongs to every single Albertan': Prominent Edmontonians speak out against RAM demolitionAndrew Knack's postRec Centre brandingNews Release: Booster Juice sponsors Terwillegar Community Recreation Centre in 10-year facility naming agreementE-scooter boundariesVendors expanding riding zones for shared e-scooters and e-bikesExpanded e-scooter zones in Edmonton will lead to 'a more connected city': officialsWhyte Avenue now exclusion zone for shared e-scooters and e-bikesCouncil proceduresJuly 4 executive committee meetingCity Council meeting agenda: Aug. 20, 2024Important Changes to City Council's Agendas: Why You Should Be Concerned - Edmonton Chamber of CommerceFrom the Taproot newsroomWhy do Edmonton businesses love kei cars?How arts organizations are working to attract younger audiencesWildfire hackathon targets misinformation as Jasper fire underlines needRapid fireWell folks, that's a fest: Robert Plant & Alison Krauss close out Edmonton Folk Music FestivalFort Road reopens following years of construction, business owners eager to recoverJust a handful of Canadian cities will be subject to the Costco membership crackdown — for nowSpeaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free! ★ Support this podcast ★

This week, council wraps for the summer, but not before kicking the can on their code of conduct. Plus, it's easier to eat food from a truck and harder to get bear spray from a store.Here are the relevant links for this episode:Code of conduct'Transparency is very, very important': Council rejects code of conduct updatesProposed bylaw would keep misdeeds by Edmonton city councillors secretCentennial PlazaNews Release: New Centennial Plaza to add colour and vibrancy in the heart of downtownVision ZeroBoy, 3, dies in crosswalk after being hit by truck in southwest EdmontonPolice investigating fatal pedestrian collision in southwest EdmontonGoFundMe for Edmonton boy killed after pickup truck hits familyPolice sound alarm after deadly month on Edmonton roadsFood trucksPSA: City streamlines permitting for mobile food vendors2012: The Past, Present, and Future of Food Truck Bylaws & Guidelines in EdmontonBear sprayEdmonton bear spray bylaw aims to curb misuse with new point-of-sale measuresEdmonton changes bylaw to regulate bear spray sales after rise in assaultsBear-spray incidents on the rise in EdmontonFrom the Taproot newsroomEdmonton Opera innovates and collaborates to keep costs lowApplied Pharma facility could open local doors while bridging national gapGroup brings co-op model to downtown investment to build changeTaproot Edmonton roundupsRapid fireLegal Aid Alberta says province terminated its contractSpeaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free! ★ Support this podcast ★

Game seven wasn't meant to be. That means that this is a boring politics podcast again and not a sports podcast. This week we discuss district plans, solar rebates, Warehouse Park, and the Edmonton Bike Park.Here are the relevant links for this episode:Game 7 downtownOilers fall short of history as Panthers win Game 7 to capture 1st Stanley Cup titleEdmonton businesses close early to let staff watch Oilers in Game 76 arrests made at Oilers Stanley Cup Game 7 watch partyWhat impact has Rogers Place had on downtown Edmonton?E-scooter operators introduce cognitive test among features aimed at addressing criticsDistrict policy and plansIs Edmonton council 'normalizing' the 15-minute city conspiracy theory?Stephanie's tweetEdmonton council passes district policy, clarifies freedom of movement amid 15-minute cities fearsEdmonton promises residents 'freedom of movement' to calm concerns around 15-minute citiesCity councillor addresses concerns about Edmonton's district planningSolar rebatesNews Release: Reopened solar rebate program gives multi-family buildings sustainability boostThe exponential growth of solar power will change the worldEPCORGolf courses, cemeteries, City of Edmonton properties need to start paying stormwater bills, Epcor saysWarehouse ParkNews Release: Transforming parking lots to paradise: Warehouse Park Project in downtown Edmonton to begin constructionEdmonton Bike ParkEdmonton Bike ParkBig News! RPFIP Awarded for the Edmonton Bike Park ProjectFrom the Taproot newsroomShiddy's and Flat Boy unite on Happy Beer StreetEntrepreneurs work to build Edmonton's padel communityTaproot Edmonton roundupsRapid fireAlberta to opt out of federal dental plan by 2026: Premier SmithBoston Pizza Comforts Grieving Hockey Fans With Free PizzaPSA: 2024 property taxes due June 30Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free! ★ Support this podcast ★

The Oilers are now two wins from the Stanley Cup. Plus, council is (kinda) talking about substantial completion, non-residential taxes, and compensation for disruption from major construction.Here are the relevant links for this episode:Substantial completionUrban Planning Committee: June 18, 20242023: Suburban sprawl costs Edmonton taxpayers more than infill: City reportNon-residential taxesCouncil pushes to boost City of Edmonton's lagging industrial tax baseOn the agenda: Edmonton's shrinking share of non-residential taxes, infill damage, construction impactBenchmarking the Edmonton Metro Region: Insights for Global CompetitivenessMajor construction compensation'Devastating impact': Edmonton businesses want solution to lost revenue from construction woesMontreal: Flat-rate subsidy for businesses in areas affected by major constructionCorporate Homelessness PlanCommunity and Public Services Committee: June 17, 2024Oilers cup run'There's definitely life': Rave review of Edmonton and of Oilers from major criticOilers back on home ice as Edmonton gears up for Game 3Explore Edmonton economic impact of the NHL playoffsHow Explore Edmonton Utilizes the Event Impact Calculator (EIC) to Advocate for Hosting EventsFrom the Taproot newsroomTree enthusiasts set to cultivate urban canopy conversation at conferencePapaschase First Nation explores drone soccer as a way to open doorsTaproot Edmonton roundupsRapid firePSA: ETS summer service changes beginGenesee Generating Station is off coal – all units 100% natural gas-fueledAlberta to ban cellphones in K-12 classrooms starting in fallBusiness membershipIntroducing Taproot Edmonton's Business MembershipSpeaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free! ★ Support this podcast ★

This week we discuss an updated capital budget, and a new train. Plus, the police commission declines to show up to a council meeting in this, the city of champions.Here are the relevant links for this episode:Police commissionCity councillors call relationship with Edmonton police commissioners 'unhealthy' and 'frustrating'Sean Amato's tweet threadCapital budgetEdmonton council approves increase to $10.4B capital budget to build housing, renew roads and fix facilitiesEdmonton adds $262 million in capital spending on buses, LRT vehicles, infrastructure repairs and housingCapital Line LRTNews Release: City awards Design-Build contract for Capital Line South LRT Extension projectEdmonton's Capital Line LRT to extend south as council approves bylaw to borrow $585MCost for Edmonton Capital Line LRT south extension balloons by $242 million, council approves in secretTransit ridershipNews Release: Transit ridership up 130 per centOpen Data CatalogueMore scootersNews Release: Third e-scooter and e-bike vendor coming to Edmonton's streetsBlatchfordEdmonton city councillor's idea to sell some undeveloped Blatchford land sputters outCity of ChampionsShould Edmonton bring back 'City of Champions' slogan?From the Taproot newsroomSustainable fashion house hosts runway experience to build city's sceneNew doc recreates Edmonton's norm-busting Flashback nightclubTaproot Edmonton roundupsRapid fireNews Release: City adds new water bottle-filling stationsYEG Departures Roadway construction to end this fall58 per cent of Canadians not following Oilers-Panthers Stanley Cup final: surveyBusiness membershipIntroducing Taproot Edmonton's Business MembershipThis episode is brought to you by the Edmonton Public Library which is hosting another instalment in its Forward Thinking Speaker Series. Don't miss Dr. Marie Wilson in conversation with Chief Wilton Littlechild on June 19. The Truth and Reconciliation Commissioners will discuss what we can do to further reconciliation across Canada. Tickets are now available for this EPL fundraiser.Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free! ★ Support this podcast ★

Boyle Street has had the permit for its site revoked…again. Plus, the police have declined a public audit, and we'll talk about Sohi's polling numbers. Is it really that time already?Here are the relevant links for this episode:Guest: Jack Farrell@_jack_farrellJack Farrell at St. Albert GazetteBoyle Street / CPTEDBoyle Street denied permit to build south Edmonton overdose prevention sitePermit denied for Wolf Den overdose prevention site in EdmontonJack's tweet threadHow EPS got involved in city planning — The YEG YellerEPS CPTED trainingPolice auditEdmonton police commission refuses to release audit plan to city councilMichael Janz's tweet threadFrom the Taproot newsroomTim Querengesser, managing editorPadmanadi and Seoul Fried Chicken tackle Calgary expansions differentlyCouncil to decide if U of A's proposal to redevelop farmland into housing can start planningTaproot Edmonton's roundupsWhat are you curious about? Let us know at hello@taprootedmonton.caLRT musicNews Release: Travel to the tunes of Tchaikovsky and more in downtown LRT stationsStephanie's tweet2011: Mercury Opera's 104 Underground (an operascape)Sohi troubleEdmonton heading in 'wrong direction,' Sohi on the ropes: Leger pollPoll results show Edmonton city council faces a tough re-election roadCivic Matters: Downtown Edmonton during the Oilers' playoff runDistrict planningEdmonton district planning decision could be weeks away, signals plans may be sent back for changes'Citizens are abandoned and angry': Public speakers distrustful of Edmonton district planningRapid fireIncrease in Edmonton's paper, reusable bag fee takes effect July 1Taste of Edmonton announces presale tickets ahead of 40th anniversary'We are at risk of running out': Calgarians asked to use 25% less water than yesterdayThis episode is brought to you by the Edmonton Public Library which is hosting another instalment in its Forward Thinking Speaker Series. Don't miss Dr. Marie Wilson in conversation with Chief Wilton Littlechild on June 19. The Truth and Reconciliation Commissioners will discuss what we can do to further reconciliation across Canada. Tickets are now available for this EPL fundraiser.Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free! ★ Support this podcast ★

A conversation at the summer institute of the Canadian Housing Evidence Collaborative about what Edmonton can and should do to contribute to the alleviation of the housing crisis.Here are the relevant links for this episode:GuestsJoshua Evans, associate professor of human geography at the University of Alberta and director of the Affordable Housing Solutions LabEric Rice, a writer and researcher working with Taproot to better understand Edmonton's housing ecosystemHousing linksCanadian Housing Evidence CollaborativeEpisode 265: An Accelerated discussion on housingEdmonton Affordable Housing Maintenance FundProtect, Enhance, Grow: Investing in Edmonton's Community Housing Sector'Damned If We Do, Damned If We Don't': Examining the Municipal Problematization of Homelessness in Edmonton, Canada During COVID-19BooksHomelessness is a Housing ProblemThe Tenant ClassNote: The series of Q&A interviews by Rice to be published in the fall by Taproot Edmonton is made possible through funding from the Alberta Real Estate Foundation.Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven original stories, curated newsletters on various topics, and locally focused podcasts, all in the service of informing Edmontonians about what is going on in their community. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free! ★ Support this podcast ★