Speaking Municipally
- Episodes
- 385
- Released
- weekly
- Latest episode
- Nov 13, 2026
About the podcast
Taproot Edmonton presents a weekly discussion on key stories in municipal politics. We pay attention to City Council so you don't have to! Join us as we delve into conversations about the context surrounding decisions made at City Hall.
Contributors
Episodes 385
District energy needs a boost
We look at the future of the downtown district energy system, which might not be that bright. Plus, Buffalo Crossing is the proposed new name for Government Centre LRT station.(00:00) - Introduction (02:15) …
Show notes
We look at the future of the downtown district energy system, which might not be that bright. Plus, Buffalo Crossing is the proposed new name for Government Centre LRT station.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (02:15) - Ad: Winterval
- (03:33) - How downtown district energy works
- (06:42) - Three options for downtown district energy
- (09:35) - River Crossing and Exhibition Lands
- (12:08) - The case for long-term investment
- (18:56) - Lessons from Vancouver-area utilities
- (21:23) - Ad: Affordability Futures
- (21:58) - The proposed Buffalo Crossing LRT station name
- (28:20) - The ETS merchandise shop
- (33:10) - Close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:Downtown district energy
- Taproot Edmonton on uncertain funding for the downtown district energy system
- City of Edmonton's district energy overview
- Nov. 4 infrastructure committee agenda and attachments on downtown district energy
- Taproot Edmonton's overview of the three options for the downtown system
- Episode 366 on Indigenous engagement in Rossdale with Kisha Supernant and Miranda Jimmy
Buffalo Crossing LRT station
ETS merchandise
This episode is brought to you by Winterval. The free, all-ages street party takes over 104 Street downtown on Nov. 21 from 4-8pm. Dress for the weather and come out for DJs, Santa photos, roving performers, food and drink specials, and giveaways from downtown businesses.
This episode is also brought to you by Affordability Futures, an initiative of End Poverty Edmonton. Edmonton's living wage is $22.65 an hour. What can we do to close the gap between minimum wage and what people need to get by? Bring your ideas to The Future We Can Afford on Nov. 19 from 4:30-7:30pm at the Pendennis Building. Register for free.
Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton. We deliver reliable intelligence about the Edmonton region. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!
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A non-sexy budget
Administration released its proposed operating, capital, and climate budgets for 2027–2030. We take a look at what's proposed, what's left out, and what it could mean for the next four years.(00:00) …
Show notes
Administration released its proposed operating, capital, and climate budgets for 2027–2030. We take a look at what's proposed, what's left out, and what it could mean for the next four years.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (07:25) - How the budgets work
- (15:28) - Property taxes and city services
- (19:19) - Early reactions to the budget
- (22:47) - What community groups asked for
- (25:30) - Unfunded projects and services
- (33:21) - Police spending and the funding formula
- (37:50) - The climate budget
- (42:50) - Low Level and High Level bridges
- (44:55) - Transit fares and user fees
- (49:17) - Budget dates and how to have a say
- (51:08) - Close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:The proposed 2027–2030 budgets
- A look at how Edmonton's budget stacks up so far
- Proposed operating budget and plans (PDF)
- Proposed capital budget (PDF)
- Climate budget (PDF)
- City of Edmonton budget and finances
- CityNews on the proposed property tax increases
- Global News on the proposed taxes, services and capital projects
Early reactions to the budget
- Taproot's Nov. 4 roundup of council's early reactions
- Edmontonians react to the proposed tax increases
- Edmonton Chamber of Commerce responds to the proposed budget
Unfunded projects and services
- Coun. Erin Rutherford on unfunded service packages in Episode 357
- Sport Edmonton's Speak 4 Sport campaign
- YEG Bike Coalition's 2027–2030 budget priorities
- Prioritize Whyte Ave's case for pedestrian and transit improvements
- Edmonton Heritage Council's funding requests and stories of impact
Police spending
- Edmonton police request another $61.6 million for capital projects
- Edmonton Police Commission's budget statement
- Council policy C604B (PDF)
Climate, bridges and transit
- Edmonton's 2027–2030 climate implementation priorities
- Low Level Bridge replacement survey, open through Nov. 30
- High Level Bridge to close in 2027 for urgent repairs
- Valley Line Southeast and the transition from TransEd to Edmonton Transit Service
Budget dates and how to have a say
- Mayor Andrew Knack's budget Ask Me Anything on Reddit, Nov. 10 from 7 to 8 p.m.
- Taproot's Nov. 5 roundup, including the mayor's budget AMA
- Council's budget meeting begins Nov. 23. The Utility Committee is scheduled to consider the utility budgets on Nov. 26.
- Council and committee meetings and the Request to Speak form
- City Clerk's guide to speaking at a meeting or submitting written comments
Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton. We deliver reliable intelligence about the Edmonton region. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!
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Revertigo
Edmonton city council learned that the province's order to roll back infill rules won't be simple to carry out. Plus, Alberta's referendum results are in, and council is seeking more municipal autonomy.(00:00) …
Show notes
Edmonton city council learned that the province's order to roll back infill rules won't be simple to carry out. Plus, Alberta's referendum results are in, and council is seeking more municipal autonomy.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (01:46) - Rolling back infill rules
- (08:07) - Restoring parking requirements
- (10:15) - Infill amendments and deadlines
- (12:18) - Edmonton's push for municipal autonomy
- (17:01) - Knack meets with the province
- (21:46) - Alberta's referendum results
- (26:43) - Stevenson leaves the police commission
- (30:26) - Council's seats on the police commission
- (32:31) - The four-year budget
- (34:34) - Ad: Taproot membership
- (36:33) - Close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:Infill
- Order in Council 353/2026 (PDF)
- City council hears report on upcoming infill zoning bylaw amendments
- Infill discussion on Instagram
Municipal autonomy
- Edmonton to push for more municipal autonomy
- 'Rebuilding trust': Knack meets with premier, ministers
- Aaron Paquette's post on municipal autonomy (Instagram)
Referendum
- Alberta referendum tallies reveal rural-urban divide on ‘the 9’
- Nopes to the nine? Blue walls? Five takeaways from Alberta's referendum results
- Interactives: Referendum results highlight Alberta's rural-urban and partisan divides
- Dark Phoenix: The Rise, Fall, and Re-emergence of Danielle Smith, by Jeremy Appel
- Craft Politics Episode 81 - Dave Cournoyer: Alberta voted to stay. What now?
Police commission
- City councillor Anne Stevenson leaves role on Edmonton police commission
- Edmonton city councillor Anne Stevenson resigns from police commission
- Councillor Stevenson resigns — Edmonton Police Commission
- Edmonton Police Commission meeting — Nov. 19, 2026
Budget
Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton. We deliver reliable intelligence about the Edmonton region. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!
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The LRT giveth and the LRT taketh away
With Adam Dyck
Adam Dyck, the comedian behind the viral LRT Takes videos, joins us to discuss how he brings fun and thoughtful critique to Edmonton. Plus, we have an update on the Army and Navy building: it's actually …
Show notes
Adam Dyck, the comedian behind the viral LRT Takes videos, joins us to discuss how he brings fun and thoughtful critique to Edmonton. Plus, we have an update on the Army and Navy building: it's actually happening!
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (01:14) - Army and Navy building update
- (05:15) - Introducing LRT Takes with Adam Dyck
- (09:14) - Transit pride and local voices
- (14:08) - Finding guests and bridging political differences
- (19:28) - Groat Road and speed limits
- (21:17) - The donair and pizza debate
- (23:46) - Edmonton's creative community
- (25:50) - Adam's hot take on YEGwave
- (27:14) - Where to find Adam and what's next
- (29:15) - Reflecting on LRT Takes
- (31:10) - Close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:Army and Navy building
Adam Dyck and LRT Takes
Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton. We deliver reliable intelligence about the Edmonton region. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!
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A sovereign Edmonton within a united Alberta
We look at reaction to the Alberta government's directive to roll Edmonton's zoning bylaw back to its pre-2024 rules. Plus, advance voting is open for the referendum, and we examine the impact of agencies …
Show notes
We look at reaction to the Alberta government's directive to roll Edmonton's zoning bylaw back to its pre-2024 rules. Plus, advance voting is open for the referendum, and we examine the impact of agencies, boards and commissions in 2025.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (01:15) - Ad: Inclusive Transportation with Veronica O. Davis
- (01:53) - Zoning bylaw directive
- (04:33) - Legal challenges and council's response
- (10:48) - Councillors react
- (14:38) - Business uncertainty
- (16:27) - Referendum advance voting
- (19:26) - Paula Simons on why voting matters
- (25:07) - Agencies, boards and commissions
- (26:53) - Council-directed funding and Station Lands
- (30:18) - ABCs by the numbers
- (34:39) - Close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:
Zoning and municipal autonomy
- On the agenda: Municipal autonomy, funding outcomes, rezonings
- Keith Gerein: Premier Smith's edict is in — Edmonton is not allowed to be Edmonton
- Edmonton could be taking province to court over infill decree
- City of Edmonton may challenge provincial infill order in court
Reaction to the infill directive
- Coun. Erin Rutherford's reaction on Bluesky
- Coun. Ashley Salvador's reaction on Bluesky
- Coun. Karen Principe's statement on Facebook
- Coun. Thu Parmar's statement on Facebook
- Coun. Thu Parmar's provincial infill update
- Coun. Mike Elliott's statement on Facebook
- Edmonton Neighbourhoods United's post on Facebook
Alberta referendum
- Elections Alberta: 2026 referendum voter information
- Your turn: Referendum mail-in ballots due, advance polls open soon
- Elections Alberta: Notice of voting location closing time changes
- Vote on Alberta's future brings together former premiers who once sparred in legislature
- Carney to attend 'Forever Canadian' rallies in Alberta days before referendum
ABCs
This episode is brought to you by the Office of Councillor Michael Janz. Join Veronica O. Davis, author of Inclusive Transportation, on Oct. 28 at 7 p.m. to explore how transportation can connect communities and what better transit could look like in Edmonton's next four-year budget. Proceeds will go to Edmonton Transit Riders. Get your ticket today.
Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton. We deliver reliable intelligence about the Edmonton region. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!
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Back to the zoning board
The provincial government is forcing Edmonton to amend its zoning bylaw and restore minimum on-site parking requirements to appease infill critics. Plus, a study found that apartment and condo dwellers are only …
Show notes
The provincial government is forcing Edmonton to amend its zoning bylaw and restore minimum on-site parking requirements to appease infill critics. Plus, a study found that apartment and condo dwellers are only sorting a third of their waste correctly.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (01:00) - Ad: Citadel Theatre
- (02:22) - Zoning and parking rollback
- (10:41) - Infill and municipal democracy
- (20:17) - Edmonton's response and next steps
- (26:40) - Waste sorting in apartments and condos
- (32:10) - Single-use items and the bag fee
- (35:50) - 2027-2030 budget process
- (38:28) - Bike plan funding
- (41:39) - Sidewalk cycling and the public spaces bylaw
- (45:11) - Edmonton's car-free mayor
- (47:09) - Close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:
Zoning and parking
- Growing neighbourhoods responsibly — provincial announcement
- Growing responsibly — Oct. 8, 2026 news conference
- 2026 Q3 Edmonton building permit report — Jacob Dawang
- Open Option Parking — City of Edmonton
Municipal autonomy and accountability
- Councillor Accountability and Recall Advisor job posting
- Modernizing municipal legislation across the province
Waste sorting
- City council agenda and attachments for the waste characterization study
- Apartment and condo waste collection — City of Edmonton
- On the agenda: Waste, budget process, city manager's power
Single-use items and the bag fee
Budget planning
Cycling and public spaces
This episode is brought to you by Citadel Theatre. Our Little Secret is a new musical based on Noam Tomaschoff's true story: a DNA test revealed that he had dozens of siblings. After hits at the Toronto and Edinburgh fringes, the show comes to the Maclab stage from Oct. 15 to 25. Get your tickets today.
Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton. We deliver reliable intelligence about the Edmonton region. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!
Want to reach the smartest, most-engaged people in the Edmonton region? Learn more about advertising with Taproot Edmonton!
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Please present your boarding pass
The new owners of Edmonton City Centre proposed strict security measures at each entrance of the downtown mall, and councillors endorsed changing the definition of public space. Plus, an American company has a …
Show notes
The new owners of Edmonton City Centre proposed strict security measures at each entrance of the downtown mall, and councillors endorsed changing the definition of public space. Plus, an American company has a vision to turn an industrial park in northeast Edmonton into one of the largest data centre campuses in North America.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (02:43) - Ad: Edmonton Startup Week
- (04:11) - Public spaces bylaw review
- (10:37) - Defining public and private spaces
- (13:42) - City Centre security plans
- (20:03) - Northeast Edmonton data centre proposal
- (22:38) - Edmonton's industrial investment
- (25:59) - Horse Hill, sprawl and land speculation
- (28:47) - Data centre regulation and impacts
- (34:49) - Transit Royale proposal
- (40:57) - Close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:
Public spaces bylaw- Councillors endorse changes to public spaces bylaw
- City reviews public spaces bylaw amid concerns it unfairly targets homeless residents
- Proposed public spaces bylaw amendments, including the definition of municipal public space
- Parveen Parmar addresses councillors on bylaw fines (video)
Edmonton City Centre
- 50-storey towers, new security approach part of developer's plans for Edmonton City Centre
- City Centre security discussion on Instagram
Data centres
- Data centre campus proposed in northeast Edmonton
- Edmonton Energy and Technology Park AI data centre amendment — learn more and share feedback until Oct. 25
- Walton's proposed area structure plan amendment (PDF)
- Northeast Edmonton could become one of North America's largest data centre districts
- Mack's 2013 reflections on the Horse Hill area structure plan and sprawl
Transit app
- Executive committee agenda: ETS Transit App Single Source Procurement
- City report on the proposed Transit Royale and rider research agreement
- Transit Royale FAQ, including free community subscriptions for riders who cannot afford it
Support local news
This episode is brought to you by Edmonton Startup Week. From Oct. 5 to 9, founders, innovators, investors, students, and big thinkers will come together for workshops, panels, showcases, social gatherings, and more. The week includes a kickoff showcasing this year's top 10 companies and a farm-inspired "Coming Home" launch party at Edmonton Unlimited on Oct. 8. Pick sessions that match your interests, and leave room for something unexpected. Explore the full calendar
Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton. We deliver reliable intelligence about the Edmonton region. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!
Want to reach the smartest, most-engaged people in the Edmonton region? Learn more about advertising with Taproot Edmonton!
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What'd I miss?
Stephanie is back! We chat about some of the big and small municipal news you might have missed in the past month. Plus, we hear all about Stephanie's travels and her fresh reflections on cities and how …
Show notes
Stephanie is back! We chat about some of the big and small municipal news you might have missed in the past month. Plus, we hear all about Stephanie's travels and her fresh reflections on cities and how Edmonton stacks up.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (01:59) - Ad: Shadow Theatre
- (03:58) - Europe through an Edmonton lens
- (08:58) - Bike infrastructure
- (10:40) - Patios and pedestrian life
- (13:45) - Bridges
- (17:31) - Street-level trains and transit
- (21:46) - Ad: Wills Week
- (23:50) - Former mayors and downtown
- (30:01) - Downtown traffic and construction
- (36:02) - Referendum
- (37:15) - Pit Tour and close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:
Europe through an Edmonton lens- Old Strathcona Public Realm Strategy
- Council decides against pause in patio fees
- Patios on Public Space
- Margaret Bridge refurbishment in Budapest
- High Level Bridge Rehabilitation
- Low Level Bridge Rehabilitation
Downtown Edmonton
- Former Edmonton mayors discuss downtown, homelessness, and the city budget
- Warehouse Park and surrounding street construction
- Imagine Jasper Avenue
Referendum
- Referendum information updates from Elections Alberta
- Referendum mail-in ballot requests surpass 610,000
Pit Tour
This episode is brought to you by Shadow Theatre. Its 2026-27 season features four plays written by Canadians, with stories that are fearless, moving, and deeply human. New artistic director Lana Hughes has put together a season that reflects the country's humour, complexity, communities, and relationships. Subscribe today
This episode is also brought to you by Edmonton Community Foundation, which presents Wills Week from Oct. 5 to 9. Whether you're creating your first will or updating an existing one, free online and in-person sessions offer clear, expert guidance on wills, executorship, and estate planning. Learn more about Wills Week
Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton. We deliver reliable intelligence about the Edmonton region. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!
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What we choose to remember
With Andy Grabia
This week, heritage advocate Andy Grabia talks about the fight to keep the University of Alberta's Casavant organ in Convocation Hall. We also look at Edmonton's uneasy relationship with its heritage and, a …
Show notes
This week, heritage advocate Andy Grabia talks about the fight to keep the University of Alberta's Casavant organ in Convocation Hall. We also look at Edmonton's uneasy relationship with its heritage and, a decade after Rogers Place opened, revisit the arena debate and the fate of Rexall Place.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (00:32) - Ad: Life Sciences Week
- (02:58) - Meet Andy Grabia
- (04:33) - The fight to save the U of A’s memorial organ
- (09:03) - A war memorial facing relocation
- (13:44) - What exactly are they trying to preserve?
- (17:53) - Can the province stop the move?
- (20:14) - The university’s rationale—and time running out
- (25:55) - Ad: Edmonton Startup Week
- (26:41) - The state of heritage in Edmonton
- (30:36) - What is worth preserving?
- (36:16) - Rogers Place, ten years later
- (39:18) - The arena’s economic impact and opportunity costs
- (45:14) - The fate of Rexall Place
- (47:06) - A call to action on heritage
- (50:06) - Close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:
Andy GrabiaMemorial organ
- U of A response to the Summerby-Murray report
- Community members raise concerns about new home for U of A organ
Edmonton heritage
- Heritage Places Strategy
- Architecture bracket exposes history at risk
- Council moves to end seven advisory boards
Rogers Place at 10
- The agreement to build Rogers Place
- Downtown Community Revitalization Levy projects
- Rogers Place celebrates its 10th anniversary
This episode is brought to you by Life Sciences Week. From Sept. 21 to 25, industry leaders, policymakers, researchers, innovators, and students will come together for free, community-led events across Alberta. Explore cutting-edge breakthroughs, meet the people transforming bold ideas into real-world solutions, and help shape the future of Alberta's life sciences sector. Learn more
This episode is also brought to you by Edmonton Startup Week. From Oct. 5 to 9, Edmonton's founders, innovators, investors, students, and big thinkers will come together to learn, connect, and build momentum. Step in for candid panels and lunch-and-learns, step up through hands-on workshops and mentorship, and step forward at community meetups, Startup Crawl, Launch Party, and more. Wherever you are in your startup journey, there's a next step waiting for you. Learn more
Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton. We deliver reliable intelligence about the Edmonton region. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!
Want to reach the smartest, most-engaged people in the Edmonton region? Learn more about advertising with Taproot Edmonton!
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Big goals, small change
With Mike Mellross
We speak with Mike Mellross of Alberta Ecotrust about Edmonton's updated climate priorities and the important decisions coming up during the four-year budget. We talk climate ambition, competing pots of …
Show notes
We speak with Mike Mellross of Alberta Ecotrust about Edmonton's updated climate priorities and the important decisions coming up during the four-year budget. We talk climate ambition, competing pots of funding, and why good city building might be climate action, too.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (00:43) - Ad: LitFest
- (01:38) - Interview introduction
- (02:11) - Meet Mike Mellross and Alberta Ecotrust
- (06:10) - Why work through a climate charity?
- (10:16) - Edmonton's updated climate priorities
- (12:50) - Ambition and accountability
- (16:34) - Climate action and city building
- (18:50) - Competing pots of funding
- (20:59) - Two $5-million funding requests
- (27:16) - The Climate Innovation Fund
- (30:22) - A more formal city partnership
- (32:23) - Thinking regionally
- (33:22) - What to watch for in the budget
- (35:58) - Climate action in a long emergency
- (39:38) - Upcoming events and speaking up
- (42:08) - Final thoughts
- (43:15) - Close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:
Mike Mellross
- Mike Mellross at Alberta Ecotrust
- Mike Mellross on LinkedIn
- The Long Emergency by James Howard Kunstler
Climate priorities
- 2027 Update - Climate Implementation Priorities: Council agenda and attachments
- 2027 Update - Climate Implementation Priorities council report
- City to debate $114.58 million in climate mitigation actions in four-year budget talks
- Report finds top 3, bottom 3 priorities for Edmontonians ahead of budget talks
- 2021: Countdown to 2050: Explaining Edmonton's carbon budget
- 2024: Report suggests Edmonton's emissions are decreasing too slowly
Alberta Ecotrust
- Emissions-Neutral Buildings Information Exchange (ENBIX)
- 2026 Alberta Municipalities Convention & Trade Show
- ENBIX three-year anniversary
This episode is brought to you by LitFest, Canada's original nonfiction festival, celebrating the power of true stories. From Oct. 14 to 18, downtown Edmonton becomes a creative hub for readers and writers. Discover your next favourite books and authors through readings, panel discussions, and workshops inspired by this year's theme: Nonfiction shows us who we are. Learn more and get tickets
Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton. We deliver reliable intelligence about the Edmonton region. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!
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Bike lanes in the slow lane
With Ashley Salvador and Aaron Budnick
We speak with Coun. Ashley Salvador and Aaron Budnick of the Edmonton Bike Coalition about Edmonton's slow bike-lane build-out and the province's threat to derail it. Plus, we hear about the confusing budget of …
Show notes
We speak with Coun. Ashley Salvador and Aaron Budnick of the Edmonton Bike Coalition about Edmonton's slow bike-lane build-out and the province's threat to derail it. Plus, we hear about the confusing budget of it all and how funding decisions will determine where the network goes next.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (00:51) - Ad: Skyline Rush Challenge
- (01:36) - Interview introduction
- (03:28) - Active transportation with Ashley and Aaron
- (08:55) - What has the $100 million built?
- (14:17) - What happened at committee
- (18:37) - The 50 Street compromise
- (21:31) - Ad: Life Sciences Week
- (23:30) - Provincial bike-lane legislation
- (27:32) - What happens next
- (28:27) - Budget and climate
- (34:39) - Week Without Bike Lanes
- (36:32) - Final thoughts
- (40:24) - Close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:
Ashley SalvadorAaron Budnick
Active transportation
- Bike routes cancelled or put off despite council direction
- On the agenda: Bike lanes, climate resilience, Low Level Bridge
- Active Transportation Implementation Acceleration Program Update (PDF)
- Active Transportation Network Expansion
- Edmonton bike lane expansion to continue as planned
- Government of Alberta praises Ontario court ruling on bike lanes
- Episode 368: Everyone is mad for different reasons
- Week Without Bike Lanes
- 2027 Update - Climate Implementation Priorities council report
This episode is brought to you by Wellspring Alberta's Skyline Rush Challenge. On Saturday, Oct. 3, rappel 240 feet down the Courtyard Edmonton Downtown Hotel while raising funds for free programs and services for Albertans and families facing cancer. No rappelling experience is needed, and this year you can take on the challenge side-by-side with a friend. Learn more
This episode is also brought to you by Life Sciences Week, a free, community-led event that celebrates and advances Alberta's life sciences. It runs Sept. 21 to 25 with events across the province, beginning with a kickoff in Edmonton at 10am on Monday, Sept. 21. In this episode, Andrew MacIsaac, CEO of Applied Pharmaceutical Innovation, explains the sector's growth and potential in the Edmonton region. Learn more
Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton. We deliver reliable intelligence about the Edmonton region. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!
Want to reach the smartest, most-engaged people in the Edmonton region? Learn more about advertising with Taproot Edmonton!
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Where do we Global from here?
With Ahmad Jawad and Colin Gallant
This week, municipalities weigh in on new strategic and business plans from Edmonton Global. Gibbons and Beaumont are out, but Edmonton is all in. Plus, council pushes forward with the active transportation …
Show notes
This week, municipalities weigh in on new strategic and business plans from Edmonton Global. Gibbons and Beaumont are out, but Edmonton is all in. Plus, council pushes forward with the active transportation network expansion, and we get an update on the Edmonton Research Park.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (01:31) - Ad: Events Roundup
- (04:06) - Edmonton Global
- (16:36) - Bike lanes
- (23:27) - Edmonton Research Park
- (28:56) - Ahmad Jawad on IASP
- (30:59) - Public toilets
- (37:45) - Close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:
Events Roundup
Edmonton Global
- Knack's faith in Edmonton Global remains, despite departures
- Edmonton Global's refresh aims to lift 'veil of unhappiness'
- Episode 367: Working as a herd
Bike lanes
- Edmonton bike lane expansion to continue as planned
- Edmonton city council rejects proposed changes to remaining bike lane routes
Edmonton Research Park
- Edmonton Research Park
- Ahmad Jawad
- IASP North American Division Event
- March 2023: Edmonton Research Park businesses encouraged by city moves
- July 2024: Applied Pharma facility could open local doors while bridging national gap
- August 2026: API facility moves forward as Life Sciences Week approaches
Public toilets
- Does Edmonton have enough public washrooms?
- Public Washrooms
- City of Edmonton Public Washroom Strategy (PDF)
Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton. We deliver reliable intelligence about the Edmonton region. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!
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Everyone is mad for different reasons
City administration is bowing down to provincial bike lane legislation that doesn't even exist yet. Plus, council requested more information on how infill impacts surrounding property values, and we discuss the …
Show notes
City administration is bowing down to provincial bike lane legislation that doesn't even exist yet. Plus, council requested more information on how infill impacts surrounding property values, and we discuss the proposed LRT station fare gate pilot.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (01:31) - Municipal bike lanes
- (10:23) - Bike lanes in Ontario
- (13:25) - Pause on active transportation infrastructure
- (18:29) - Fare gate pilot
- (24:40) - Infill impacts
- (32:46) - Movers & Shakers
- (36:19) - Fringe update
- (38:25) - Close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:
Municipal bike lanes
- Province seeks input on bikes lanes, cyclists push back
- Edmonton council votes to keep parking while building bike lanes along 50th Street
- Alberta monitoring debate over bike lanes in Ontario, considering similar legislation
- Government of Alberta praises Ontario court ruling on bike lanes
Fare gate pilot
- Edmonton city council to vote on fare gate pilot project in November
- September 2024: Fare gate pilot could fail, podcast hosts suggest
- Episode 277 | A fair shake for fare gates faces delay
Infill impacts
- Edmonton councillor seeks study on infill property values
- Jacob Dawang: Edmonton's $15M infill property tax dividend
Movers & Shakers
- Andrew Knack's LinkedIn post
- Gerein: Blake Desjarlais's hiring at Edmonton city hall was a puzzler. So is his exit after just 90 days.
- Rajah Maggay's LinkedIn post
- Aileen Giesbrecht's LinkedIn post
Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton. We deliver reliable intelligence about the Edmonton region. Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!
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Working as a herd
With Daryn Edgar and Jeff Acker
We speak with Edmonton Global CEO Daryn Edgar and Spruce Grove Mayor Jeff Acker about Edmonton Global's new strategic plan and how shareholders are feeling about the organization these days. Plus, we bring you …
Show notes
We speak with Edmonton Global CEO Daryn Edgar and Spruce Grove Mayor Jeff Acker about Edmonton Global's new strategic plan and how shareholders are feeling about the organization these days. Plus, we bring you an update on Gibbons, the best little town in the northeast.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (03:34) - Ad: Taproot's Food Roundup
- (04:22) - Gibbons update
- (14:44) - Interview with Daryn Edgar and Jeff Acker
- (58:42) - Post-interview discussion
- (59:57) - Closing
Here are the relevant links for this episode:
Guests
- Daryn Edgar
- Edmonton Global's incoming CEO aims to refresh relationships and drive scale
- Meet Daryn Edgar, Edmonton Global's new CEO
- Mayor Jeff Acker
- City of Spruce Grove: Mayor Jeff Acker
Gibbons
- Gibbons viability review raises concerns in Sturgeon County
- Concern over Bill 28's proposed changes to viability review
- Collaboration talks between Gibbons and Sturgeon County stall
- Viability review report reveals how Gibbons reached financial crisis
- Gibbons council rejects province's viability review findings
- Gibbons votes to remain a town
This episode is brought to you by the Food Roundup. Published every Tuesday morning, the Food Roundup is an email newsletter that provides you with the latest openings, closings, headlines, and happenings in the world of food across the Edmonton region. If you're looking to reach the kind of people who read the Food Roundup (and you should because they're awesome!) then get in touch.
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Talking about Rossdale
With Miranda Jimmy and Kisha Supernant
We're joined by an archeology expert and an advocate with experience in Indigenous relations for a deep dive on Indigenous engagement in Rossdale, and across the river valley.(00:00) - Introduction (00:42) …
Show notes
We're joined by an archeology expert and an advocate with experience in Indigenous relations for a deep dive on Indigenous engagement in Rossdale, and across the river valley.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (00:42) - Restaurant closures
- (10:32) - Ad: Edmonton Opera
- (12:11) - Rossdale engagement
- (14:22) - Interview with Kisha and Miranda
- (54:01) - Post-interview discussion
- (59:50) - Scramble update
- (01:00:30) - Closing
Here are the relevant links for this episode:
Restaurant closures- July 21, 2026 Food Roundup
- String of restaurant closures in downtown Edmonton has business owners talking about challenges
Rossdale engagement
- Rossdale debate reflects differing worldviews and capacities, advocates say
- Treaty 6 nations aim to redevelop contentious Rossdale lots
- Miranda Jimmy: Legal, Ethical, and Moral Obligations to the Treaty Relationship
- Métis archaeologist transforms her field from 'grave robber' to 'grave finder'
- River Cross Business Plan (PDF)
Guests
Scramble update
This episode is brought to you by Edmonton Opera. Tickets are on sale now for Opera al Fresco, Edmonton Opera's cherished summer tradition at the University of Alberta Botanic Garden. Hear favourite arias and choruses amid the flowers and greenery, with a charcuterie box to nibble on throughout. Don't miss out! Get your tickets today
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Reed between the line items
With Reed Clarke
We're joined by Ward Nakota Isga Coun. Reed Clarke for a conversation about the upcoming four-year budget. We talk about the struggle to keep businesses in Edmonton, the need for better bylaw enforcement, and …
Show notes
We're joined by Ward Nakota Isga Coun. Reed Clarke for a conversation about the upcoming four-year budget. We talk about the struggle to keep businesses in Edmonton, the need for better bylaw enforcement, and how infill has impacted the tax situation.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (02:10) - Reed Clarke
- (05:17) - Revenue ideas
- (10:41) - Past tax increases
- (14:11) - Ad: ECAMP Curiosity Tours
- (14:51) - Tax impacts
- (19:23) - Industrial development
- (28:11) - Infill
- (31:34) - What does success look like?
- (34:59) - Close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:
Reed Clarke
Budget
This episode is brought to you by the Edmonton City as Museum Project. Join ECAMP for two immersive walking experiences this summer! Explore Edmonton's history through the Labour History Tour and Children of the Flats, and dive into the stories that shaped our city — past and present. Tours are at $15 (2‑hour) or $10 (1‑hour) per person, with kids 12 & under FREE — an accessible and engaging way to experience the city. Learn more
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Aaron out the budget concerns
With Aaron Paquette
We're joined by Ward Dene Coun. Aaron Paquette for a conversation about the upcoming four-year budget. We talk about the state of Edmonton's finances, our city's relationship with neighbours and the province …
Show notes
We're joined by Ward Dene Coun. Aaron Paquette for a conversation about the upcoming four-year budget. We talk about the state of Edmonton's finances, our city's relationship with neighbours and the province, and what success looks like for the 2027-2030 budget.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (02:00) - Aaron Paquette
- (11:02) - Municipal/provincial relations
- (17:08) - Regional growth pressures
- (25:42) - Downtown incentives
- (27:45) - Ad: Park Power
- (28:22) - Budget engagement
- (32:49) - Social return
- (35:30) - Budget experience
- (39:53) - Budget approach
- (47:23) - Budge communication
- (50:05) - What does success look like?
- (53:09) - Be kind
- (54:20) - Close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:
Aaron Paquette
Budget
This 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. It also has a Solar Club that offers solar power buy-back rates for Albertans with solar PV systems. Learn more.
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Schrodinger's lodging house
Edmonton city councillors debated changes to the zoning bylaw to regulate lodging houses … if they can figure out what they are. Plus, the city has started cracking down on illegal downtown surface parking …
Show notes
Edmonton city councillors debated changes to the zoning bylaw to regulate lodging houses … if they can figure out what they are. Plus, the city has started cracking down on illegal downtown surface parking lots, and we get excited for the Fringe Festival.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (00:31) - Rain in June
- (05:09) - Ad: Taste of Edmonton
- (05:44) - Canada Day
- (06:55) - Lodging houses
- (17:19) - New towing lot
- (19:30) - Downtown parking lots
- (26:33) - Fringe Festival
- (31:21) - Scheduling notes
- (33:10) - Close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:
Rain in June
- Edmonton records its rainiest June ever following latest weekend downpour: Environment Canada
- Edmonton weather nerdery: June 2026
- News Release: City of Edmonton impacts due to additional heavy rains
- News Release: Rising water levels on the North Saskatchewan River prompt immediate trail closures
Canada Day
- Readers share what this year's Canada Day means to them
- O Canada? Patriotism in the time of Alberta separatism
Lodging houses
- Lodging Houses Analysis
- Edmonton's mayor fears infill bylaws abused to build lodging houses
- Edmonton infills operated as rooming houses, renting by the day — even hour
New towing lot
Downtown parking lots
- Crackdown on unlicensed downtown Edmonton parking lots looms
- Edmonton cracking down on unpermitted surface parking lots in core
- News Release: City begins enforcement action against unpermitted downtown surface parking lots in July
Fringe Festival
- Edmonton Fringe announces Unforgettable theme for 2026 festival
- Fringe asks for support to keep it 'Unforgettable'
This episode is brought to you by Taste of Edmonton. This year, the popular 11-day festival runs July 16 to 26, offering a delicious sample of Edmonton's finest restaurants, arts, and culture. Presale tickets are available online now until July 14th, or at select retail locations until July 15th. By purchasing ahead, you'll save $10 per sheet of 40 tickets. Learn more
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I like big bins
City council delayed a public hearing about Rossdale as it had questions about its duty to consult with Indigenous nations. Plus, the parking requirement at daycares has been reduced, and we discuss how to stop …
Show notes
City council delayed a public hearing about Rossdale as it had questions about its duty to consult with Indigenous nations. Plus, the parking requirement at daycares has been reduced, and we discuss how to stop illegal dumping at apartment buildings.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (00:41) - YEG Trivia Night
- (02:54) - Canada Day ask
- (03:44) - Ad: Edmonton Opera
- (04:42) - Rossdale rezoning
- (19:37) - Daycare parking
- (26:24) - Illegal dumping
- (35:00) - Close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:
Canada DayRossdale rezoning
Daycare parking
- Edmonton mayor hopes requiring less daycare parking encourages more walking, biking
- Council reduces parking requirements for child-care spaces to encourage more to enter industry
Illegal dumping
- Edmonton condo's and apartment's paying extra to clean up illegal dumping, report says
- City looking to pilot big bin project in 2027 to curb illegal dumping
This episode is brought to you by Edmonton Opera. Set yourself up for a couple of spectacular date nights! The Opera Duo bundles tickets to both mainstage productions in the 2026-27 season: Rossini's The Barber of Seville in November and Mozart's The Magic Flute in February. You'll save 20% compared to single ticket prices, secure your seats early, and have two unforgettable nights of live opera to look forward to. Subscribe today
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Maybe it is a municipal responsibility
Council approved $925,000 to fund winter day spaces, even as the conversation about jurisdiction continues. Plus, the Southeast Transit Garage will be a little bigger, and we look at what Edmontonians told the …
Show notes
Council approved $925,000 to fund winter day spaces, even as the conversation about jurisdiction continues. Plus, the Southeast Transit Garage will be a little bigger, and we look at what Edmontonians told the Edmonton Police Commission about the next EPS operating budget.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (01:21) - Correction: 15-minute parking update
- (03:24) - Ad: Park Power
- (03:55) - Day spaces
- (14:14) - Mayor Andrew Knack's comments
- (15:45) - Edmonton Police budget engagement results
- (26:22) - Southeast Transit Garage
- (35:22) - Koermann Block
- (37:32) - Close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:
Trivia Night
Correction: 15-minute parking update
Day spaces
- Council allocates $925 thousand for winter day spaces
- On the agenda: Budget adjustment, transit garage, community halls
Edmonton Police budget engagement results
Spring 2026 SCBA & Southeast Transit Garage
- Edmonton council votes to build bigger transit garage, despite it adding $66M to debt
- Garage capacity key to expanding transit service, advocate says
Koermann Block
This 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. It also has a Solar Club that offers solar power buy-back rates for Albertans with solar PV systems. Learn more.
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Vroom, vroom, vroom went the trolley
With Colin Gallant
We're joined by Taproot reporter Colin Gallant, who tested out Edmonton Explorer, the new hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour "trolley" from Explore Edmonton. Plus, the city is taking over operations of the Valley …
Show notes
We're joined by Taproot reporter Colin Gallant, who tested out Edmonton Explorer, the new hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour "trolley" from Explore Edmonton. Plus, the city is taking over operations of the Valley Line LRT, and we discuss upcoming changes to parking at attractions.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (02:30) - Ad: Rally 4 the Road
- (03:13) - Edmonton Explorer
- (16:44) - FCM Annual Conference in Edmonton
- (22:36) - Ad: U of A Reads
- (24:07) - ETS takes over Valley Line from TransEd
- (35:12) - Parking fees at attractions
- (41:32) - Close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:
Edmonton Explorer- Edmonton Explorer: Guided Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour
- Agency calls 'All aboard!' for visitor economy
- Explore Edmonton with new trolley service, discovery pass
FCM Annual Conference in Edmonton
- Mayors seek federal funding for downtowns at Edmonton conference
- Federation of Canadian Municipalities launches new defence task force
ETS takes over Valley Line from TransEd
- News Release: ETS to become long-term operator for Valley Line LRT
- TransEd replaced as Valley Line LRT operator as Edmonton ends 30-year contract early
- TransEd ousted as Valley Line Southeast operator, ETS to take over
- Edmonton Transit taking over operation of Valley Line
- 2013: P3, or not P3? That's the question as we try to fund Edmonton's future LRT
Parking fees at attractions
- UPDATE: We misspoke about 15-minute free parking. While administration recommended removing it, Urban Planning Committee ultimately passed a motion to preserve 15-minute free parking by adjusting rates for people parking longer than that to cover the cost.
- City to charge for parking at Valley Zoo, Muttart Conservatory, Fort Edmonton
- Curbside and Parking Program - Transforming Edmonton's Curbside and Parking Program
This episode is brought to you by the Office of Coun. Reed Clarke, who is hosting Rally 4 the Road: Patio Party. The event celebrates the potential of Stony Plain Road as a vibrant central gathering point for the community. Head to The Orange Hub on Saturday, July 4 from 4–7pm for food, music, and drinks before Grindstone Theatre's Comedy Festival shows begin. Learn about the local businesses, vacant-land opportunities, and community energy helping this historic main street thrive. Learn more
This episode is also brought to you by U of A Reads from the University of Alberta. From poetry to protest, memory to motivation — U of A alumni authors unpack the forces behind their writing in candid, thought-provoking conversations. Learn more at uab.ca/reads
Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton. We deliver reliable intelligence about the Edmonton region.
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No way four way
We've got a little update on Bridgegate, and we talk about the impact of major construction projects on businesses. Plus, we go on a bit of a deep dive into a southeast neighbourhood that was designed with only …
Show notes
We've got a little update on Bridgegate, and we talk about the impact of major construction projects on businesses. Plus, we go on a bit of a deep dive into a southeast neighbourhood that was designed with only one way in or out. What could go wrong?
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (03:53) - Ad: U of A Reads
- (04:32) - Bridgegate update
- (14:10) - Construction impacts on businesses
- (23:44) - Ad: Edmonton International Jazz Festival
- (25:58) - Maple traffic woes
- (37:57) - Close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:
Canada vs. Uzbekistan
- LinkedIn post from Jason Syvixay
- Footy Scran
- News Release: Commonwealth Stadium welcomed more than 46,000 soccer fans despite heavy rain
Bridgegate update
- What could Edmonton's High Level Bridge replacement look like?
- May 25, 2026 - Infrastructure Committee
- Edmonton's Next Bridge Must Be Its Greatest: Let's Do It Right
- 2021: Walterdale Bridge still cost Edmonton $155M, even after contractor paid damages for delays
Construction impacts on businesses
- Construction forces closure of Edmonton's top Indian restaurant
- Reddit thread on Khazana
- Food Roundup: June 2, 2026
- August 2024: City council rejects grant program for Stony Plain Road businesses struggling through LRT work
Maple traffic woes
- New 4-way stop removed after causing traffic nightmare in Maple Crest neighbourhood
- Traffic snarl in southeast Edmonton leads city to remove newly installed 4-way stop
- City of Edmonton installs, then removes 4-way stop sign in Maple Crest neighbourhood
- Maple NSP (PDF)
- 2022: Councillors decide not to expand road access to southeast Edmonton community
- Feb. 03, 2026 - City Council - Public Hearing
This episode is brought to you by U of A Reads from the University of Alberta. From poetry to protest, memory to motivation — U of A alumni authors unpack the forces behind their writing in candid, thought-provoking conversations. Learn more at uab.ca/reads
This episode is also brought to you by the Edmonton International Jazz Festival, which is running from June 19 to 28. Every spring in our city, jazz brings us together, with Edmonton, Canadian, and international musicians. Discover your jazz with us as you experience some of the finest musicians in some of the best music spaces in town. Get tickets now before they're gone
Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton. We deliver reliable intelligence about the Edmonton region.
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Stop trying to make a tree bylaw happen, it's not going to happen
Edmonton city council has approved what has been described as an alternative to a private tree protection bylaw. Plus, we take a look at proposed changes to Jasper Avenue and Whyte Avenue. But don't worry …
Show notes
Edmonton city council has approved what has been described as an alternative to a private tree protection bylaw. Plus, we take a look at proposed changes to Jasper Avenue and Whyte Avenue. But don't worry, they're not funded yet.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (01:17) - Ad: U of A Reads
- (01:52) - Protecting private trees
- (08:56) - Stabilization centre
- (18:30) - Jasper Avenue New Vision
- (29:27) - Whyte Avenue BRT
- (39:12) - Close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:
Protecting private trees- On the agenda: Bridges, trees, and office budgets
- Edmonton wants to grow its tree canopy but some developers oppose bearing cost
- Edmonton city councillors vote to expand tree planting securities for home builders
- For some residents across Toronto, this tree's fruit is anything but sweet
Stabilization centre
- Edmonton police 'stabilization centre' to hold people in crisis
- Edmonton police and Recovery Alberta to create facility for disorder, public intoxication
- EPS 2025 Annual Report: Highlights Public Safety Progress, Innovation, and a New Approach to Policing
- April 2023: Alberta backs program that offers addictions supports to people in Edmonton police custody
- 2023: New Integrated Care Centre Open
Jasper Avenue New Vision
- Jasper Avenue New Vision
- 107 Street Streetscaping: 99 Avenue to Jasper Avenue Design Booklet
- Your turn: Jasper Ave, street labs, and biz census
Whyte Avenue BRT
This episode is brought to you by U of A Reads from the University of Alberta. From poetry to protest, memory to motivation — U of A alumni authors unpack the forces behind their writing in candid, thought-provoking conversations. Learn more at uab.ca/reads
Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton. We deliver reliable intelligence about the Edmonton region.
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This week had Highs and Lows
With Erin Rutherford
The City of Edmonton announced plans to decommission and replace three iconic bridges: the High Level Bridge and the Low Level Bridges. Plus, we talk with Coun. Erin Rutherford about unfunded service packages …
Show notes
The City of Edmonton announced plans to decommission and replace three iconic bridges: the High Level Bridge and the Low Level Bridges. Plus, we talk with Coun. Erin Rutherford about unfunded service packages and how the budget process is changing this year.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (01:38) - Ad: U of A Reads
- (02:10) - High Level and Low Level Bridges
- (10:49) - Our thoughts on the bridges
- (27:53) - Coun. Erin Rutherford on unfunded service packages
- (43:55) - Interview debrief
- (46:41) - Close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:
High Level and Low Level Bridges- City of Edmonton recommends decommissioning High Level and Low Level bridges
- Central Area Bridge Renewal Update
- Let's Find Out Episode 58: The MacKinnon Ravine Mystery
Coun. Erin Rutherford on unfunded service packages
This episode is brought to you by U of A Reads from the University of Alberta. From poetry to protest, memory to motivation — U of A alumni authors unpack the forces behind their writing in candid, thought-provoking conversations. Learn more at uab.ca/reads
Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton. We deliver reliable intelligence about the Edmonton region.
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Return to office! But not on your bike
Business organizations have called once again for municipal employees to return to the office full time, but the mayor isn't budging. Plus, the province is planning legislation that would let it review or …
Show notes
Business organizations have called once again for municipal employees to return to the office full time, but the mayor isn't budging. Plus, the province is planning legislation that would let it review or remove bike lanes.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (01:32) - Ad: Bosco Foundation
- (02:42) - State of the City
- (13:57) - Edmonton Real Estate Forum
- (29:26) - Ad: ECOHH
- (31:09) - Bike lanes
- (36:23) - Council motions
- (45:39) - Close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:
State of the City- Letter to the Mayor: A Proposed Phased Return to In-Person Work for Municipal Employees
- Andrew Knack's 2026 State of the City address
- Mayor rebuffs calls to shift city employees downtown full-time
- Remote Work – Again?! | CSU 52
- Enabling job creation should top mayor's agenda, says cities expert
- January 2026: No plans to end hybrid work for City of Edmonton staff, despite calls for return to office
Edmonton Real Estate Forum
Bike lanes
- Alberta government takes aim at bike lanes, with legislation expected this fall
- Calgary mayor calls province's focus on bike lanes 'symbolic virtue-signalling'
- July 2025: Ontario court strikes down Ford government's plan to remove Toronto bike lanes
Council motions
- On the agenda: User fees, buses, and Blatchford
- Council discusses lower threshold for extreme weather response
Spray parks
This episode is brought to you by The Bosco Neighbourhood Podcast from the Bosco Foundation. The podcast explores community connection, Indigenous leadership, and the future of Balwin and Belvedere. Join hosts Soni Dasmohapatra and Darine Moukhaiber as they sit down with community leaders, elders, and visionaries to discuss what it means to "live well together" in this diverse corner of Northeast Edmonton. Learn more
This episode is also brought to you by the Edmonton Coalition on Housing and Homelessness, which is marking 40 years of housing advocacy with a community event on June 13. There will be live music, inspiring speakers, and meaningful connections, plus complimentary bannock and beverages. Get your tickets today
Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton. We deliver reliable intelligence about the Edmonton region.
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You have been engaged
With Andrew Knack
Edmonton city council has approved a rezoning that will allow a 25-storey tower in Windsor Park. Plus, Stephanie took a trip to a budget engagement session to learn what the mayor's been hearing from …
Show notes
Edmonton city council has approved a rezoning that will allow a 25-storey tower in Windsor Park. Plus, Stephanie took a trip to a budget engagement session to learn what the mayor's been hearing from Edmontonians.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (04:45) - Ad: U of A Reads
- (05:26) - Windsor Park
- (15:03) - 101 Street TPM Memo
- (19:56) - Ad: AdaptAbilities
- (20:26) - Budget engagement
- (32:17) - Community Climate Adaptation Micro Grant
- (43:29) - Close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:
Windsor Park- Council approves rezoning for 25-storey residential tower, despite community concern
- Council approves 25-storey tower in Windsor Park neighbourhood
- May 5, 2026 - City Council - Public Hearing
101 Street TPM Memo
Budget engagement
Community Climate Adaptation Micro Grant
- Community Climate Adaptation Micro Grant
- News Release: City supports neighbourhood resilience with new climate adaptation micro grant
Award nominations
This episode is brought to you by U of A Reads from the University of Alberta. From poetry to protest, memory to motivation — U of A alumni authors unpack the forces behind their writing in candid, thought-provoking conversations. Learn more at uab.ca/reads
This episode is also brought to you by AdaptAbilities' Hearts in Action Summer Camps, which offer a supportive space to build confidence, develop skills, and form meaningful friendships through structured activities. Each day is designed to encourage participation, independence, and connection in a safe and welcoming environment. Camps run across various locations in Edmonton, Leduc, and St. Albert. Learn more
Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton. We deliver reliable intelligence about the Edmonton region.
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Three feet repeat
Edmonton city council voted to reduce the maximum height in the RS zone, and they approved some District Policy changes too. Plus, we found out how much more the Lewis Farms Recreation Centre is going to cost …
Show notes
Edmonton city council voted to reduce the maximum height in the RS zone, and they approved some District Policy changes too. Plus, we found out how much more the Lewis Farms Recreation Centre is going to cost, and one councillor's wondering if we should give up on LRT in the northwest.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (03:17) - Ad: U of A Reads
- (03:58) - Zoning changes
- (16:54) - Lewis Farms Recreation Centre
- (21:28) - Ad: Housing Summit
- (22:08) - Metro Line LRT Northwest
- (33:18) - Army & Navy update
- (36:45) - Close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:
Zoning changes- Edmonton city council reduces infill height cap by 1 metre
- Edmonton city council passes height restrictions on infill builds
Lewis Farms Recreation Centre
- Edmonton's Lewis Farms rec centre could cost nearly $32M more than original estimate
- On the agenda: Lewis Farms, Army & Navy, advisory boards
Metro Line LRT Northwest
- Councillor seeks new transit ideas for northwest Edmonton, calls Metro Line LRT expansion 'a pipe dream'
- Metro Line - Northwest (Extension)
Army & Navy update
Playoffs
- 'Not good enough': Playoff-fatigued Oilers overwhelmed by upstart Ducks
- Buffalo fans sing 'O Canada' after microphone mishap
This episode is brought to you by U of A Reads from the University of Alberta. From poetry to protest, memory to motivation — U of A alumni authors unpack the forces behind their writing in candid, thought-provoking conversations. Learn more at uab.ca/reads
This episode is also brought to you by Housing Forward, the first prairie-wide affordable housing summit, which takes place May 11-14. Hosted by the City of Edmonton, Housing Forward brings together more than 500 leaders from across Western Canada to advance practical, scalable solutions for housing delivery. Register today!
Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton. We deliver reliable intelligence about the Edmonton region.
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Your KDays are numbered
With Joel Ivany and Karen Unland
This week, we learned that city council is sunsetting seven boards that offered expert insight on women's issues, racism, climate, and more. Plus, KDays might have to downsize, and the Africa Centre is one step …
Show notes
This week, we learned that city council is sunsetting seven boards that offered expert insight on women's issues, racism, climate, and more. Plus, KDays might have to downsize, and the Africa Centre is one step closer to its multicultural community hub.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (01:29) - Ad: Edmonton Opera
- (03:51) - Sunsetting Advisory Committees
- (29:14) - Exhibition Lands
- (36:31) - African Multicultural Community Centre
- (40:33) - Permanent daylight time
- (43:06) - Close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:
Sunsetting Advisory Committees
- Edmonton city council sunsets seven advisory boards
- City Council's Governance Framework for Council Committees - City Council - March 17, 2026
- Commonwealth Stadium field could be renamed Play Alberta Field
- Edmonton Design Committee could review more developments in future
- Troy's comment on Reddit
Exhibition Lands
- Development of Edmonton's Exhibition Lands could see KDays on the move
- Edmonton Exhibition Lands Implementation Strategy
- October 2024: Stadium Station redesign sees calls for service drop by 50%
African Multicultural Community Centre
Permanent daylight time
This episode is brought to you by Edmonton Opera. Siegfried is an epic coming-of-age story, where a young hero sets out to discover the world and who he is meant to become. Edmonton Opera brings this monumental story to the intimate Maclab Theatre at the Citadel, where you'll feel the full force of Wagner's music and the human story at its centre. See it on May 25, 27, 29, or 31. Learn more
Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton. We deliver reliable intelligence about the Edmonton region.
Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!
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I am Dunluce with this conversation
Edmonton city council has approved the sale of surplus land for affordable housing, to some opposition. Plus, the Downtown Revitalization Coalition is advocating for renewed attention on downtown safety, and we …
Show notes
Edmonton city council has approved the sale of surplus land for affordable housing, to some opposition. Plus, the Downtown Revitalization Coalition is advocating for renewed attention on downtown safety, and we have updates on 101 Street and River Crossing.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (02:36) - Ad: U of A Reads
- (03:12) - Affordable housing on surplus school sites
- (12:29) - Transit Priority Measures on 101 Street
- (18:37) - Downtown safety
- (31:49) - RE/MAX Field and River Crossing
- (38:56) - Close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:
Affordable housing on surplus school sites- First Place Program
- Completing the First Place Program
- Affordable housing project in north Edmonton OK'd by city council despite concerns
Transit Priority Measures on 101 Street
- Council restores street parking on 101 Street in Chinatown
- Advancing Bus Rapid Transit and Transit Priority Measures
- Transit Priority Measures
Downtown safety
- DRC Policy Briefing Document (PDF)
- Downtown advocacy group calls on council to make Edmonton the safest big city in Canada
RE/MAX Field and River Crossing
- River Crossing
- River Crossing Capital Profile Adjustment
- July 2025: ETS begins adding small surcharge for big-name concert tickets at Commonwealth
This episode is brought to you by U of A Reads from the University of Alberta. From poetry to protest, memory to motivation — U of A alumni authors unpack the forces behind their writing in candid, thought-provoking conversations. Learn more at uab.ca/reads
Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton. We deliver reliable intelligence about the Edmonton region.
Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!
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Everyone disliked that
This week, potential changes to the zoning bylaw that would reduce the maximum height in the RS zone disappointed everyone. Plus, we talk about the Edmonton Region Defence Alliance and the city's efforts to …
Show notes
This week, potential changes to the zoning bylaw that would reduce the maximum height in the RS zone disappointed everyone. Plus, we talk about the Edmonton Region Defence Alliance and the city's efforts to cash in on increased defence spending.
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (01:15) - Ad: U of A Reads
- (02:54) - RS Zone height reduction
- (12:25) - Belgravia Heights
- (21:47) - Ad: Park Power
- (22:28) - Edmonton Region Defence Alliance
- (35:55) - Election campaign finances
- (38:19) - Close
Here are the relevant links for this episode:
RS zone height reduction- On the agenda: Zoning bylaw, transit garage, audits
- City council discussing reducing maximum wall-height for Edmonton infill
Belgravia Heights
Edmonton Region Defence Alliance
- Edmonton Region Defence Alliance
- Edmonton region defence alliance aims to steer defence investment into local industry
- Opinion: The quiet militarization of Canadian AI
- City Council Meeting: March 17, 2026
Election campaign finances
- Keith Gerein: Big money proved a big waste in Edmonton's city election
- Keith Gerein: Edmonton's 2025 election shows need for finance reform
- Edmonton election financial disclosures show disparity between campaign spending and victory
This episode is brought to you by U of A Reads from the University of Alberta. From poetry to protest, memory to motivation — U of A alumni authors unpack the forces behind their writing in candid, thought-provoking conversations. Learn more at uab.ca/reads
This episode is also 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. It also has a Solar Club that you might want to check out. If you live in Alberta and have a solar PV system, Park Power can offer you some of the best solar power buy-back rates in the province. Get rewarded for your contribution to Alberta's renewable energy. Learn more
Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton. We deliver reliable intelligence about the Edmonton region.
Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!
Want to reach the smartest, most-engaged people in the Edmonton region? Learn more about advertising with Taproot Edmonton!
★ Support this podcast ★Chapters
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