Street sweeping is in full swing as Public Works crews continue to work their way through priority routes across Edson This seasonal cleanup helps remove built-up gravel and winter sand from our roads to improve safety and cleanliness crews will begin sweeping along the highways in addition to their ongoing work throughout Town Avoid parking on streets that are actively being swept Slow down near working crews and equipment Be aware of reduced visibility due to dust Thank you for your cooperation and for giving our crews the space they need to work safely and efficiently Street sweeping follows the same priority routes as our snow removal operations. You can view the map at edson.ca/snow Thank you for your cooperation as we freshen up the streets for spring we acknowledge the Town of Edson is located on Treaty 6 territory the traditional and ancestral lands of the Nehiyawak (Naheeyawak) and the Otipemisiwak (Otipeemissoowak)(Métis) Nations and our ancestors who have gathered here for centuries is facing charges including forcible confinement and flight from police following an incident near Evansburg and Highway 16 on Feb We apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Play VideoArticle contentThe Whitecourt, Mayerthorpe and other RCMP detachments responded to a reported kidnapping on Feb. 2, resulting in a shelter in place east of the Town of Edson in Yellowhead County. The Evansburg RCMP lifted the shelter-in-place advisory late Sunday afternoon. “This investigation is still ongoing and RCMP would like to extend gratitude to community members for their assistance thus far,” police said on Tuesday. According to the Alberta RCMP, the incident began with a report that an adult was kidnapped at gunpoint in the Evansburg area. The alleged kidnapping took place east of Highway 16A and Range Road 81 and the report was made by a “third party,” police said. According to the Alberta RCMP, “a significant number of resources” were utilized in response to the incident. These included the Whitecourt, Mayerthorpe, Evansburg, Edson, Parkland, Hinton, Barrhead, Drayton Valley and Saddle Lake detachments. They were joined by the Edson RCMP Traffic Unit, RCMP air services, remotely piloted aircraft systems, the major crimes unit, emergency response team and the Federal Serious and Organized Crime Unit. When police found the vehicle they attempted a traffic stop, but the vehicle sped away, according to the Alberta RCMP. A pursuit began because police believed the victim was in danger, the RCMP stated. Eventually, the driver fled on foot, while the victim was “secured safely” with the officers. During the shelter in place, the Evansburg RCMP asked residents not to open their doors to strangers, lock their doors, stay inside and keep away from their windows. Police said at the time they were dealing with “an unfolding event” north of Hwy. 16 and south of Township Road 532D. During the search, the Alberta RCMP alleged the suspect ran behind a shed and tried to break into a residence before being faced by the homeowner. The suspect later emerged from the forest to surrender, police said. Fendelet is now charged with flight from police, dangerous operation of a vehicle, obstructing an officer, mischief worth under $5,000, breaking and entering a residence and forcible confinement. He was taken to a justice of the peace and placed in custody, with his next court date set for Feb. 5 at the Alberta Court of Justice in Stony Plain. Range Road 150 on Highway 16 is approximately 81 kilometres south of Whitecourt and 163 km west of Edmonton. transmission or republication strictly prohibited This website uses cookies to personalize your content (including ads), and allows us to analyze our traffic. Read more about cookies here. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Please be advised the flags will be lowered to half mast on Saturday April 26 in honour of His Holiness Pope Francis the flags will be lowered on Friday and remain lowered until Monday morning the Town of Edson outdoor rinks and skating loop are currently closed The Town of Edson currently operates and maintains two outdoor skating rinks and a skating loop The Squirrely Whirly Skating Loop is located at Water Tower Park (across from the Edson and District Leisure Centre) Please remember that this is all natural ice and may have bumpy or uneven surfaces at times Head protection and safety gear is strongly recommended There are also 2 community run outdoor rinks available for public use The Westhaven rink is located at 5901 10th Avenue while the Tiffin rink is at 1408 55th Street These are maintained and operated by volunteers in the community Any community member wanting to run or be involved in the creation or maintenance of these rinks is asked to speak to the Community Services Department residents will be required to sign out the key to the hydrant to enable them to flood the rinks that member is responsible for location and the return of the key at the end of the season the town will supply hose and connections to the hydrants please let the Town know so they can be replaced/repaired as required *Please keep hydrants locked when not in use to prevent them from being turned on or opened and freezing the lines I this happens it costs approx $5,000 to repair Some helpful tips for starting the rink flooding process are: ***The Town of Edson would like to request these facilities be utilized in a safe and respectful manner if anyone observes our facilities being abused please report it to the Town Office or RCMP Big changes are coming to how recycling is managed across Alberta—and it means savings for Edson residents The Alberta Recycling Management Authority (ARMA) under the direction of the Government of Alberta has launched a new province-wide Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program This initiative shifts the cost and responsibility of recycling from municipalities to the producers of recyclable materials with the goal of reducing waste at the source similar programs have been successfully implemented in other provinces such as Ontario and British Columbia Alberta has drawn from these examples to shape its own approach Council recently approved a motion to pass cost savings on to residential recycling customers Residents will see their recycling service charge reduced from $11.23/month to $7.25/month starting with their April utility invoice Please note: This change currently applies only to residential recycling materials Commercial accounts are not impacted at this time The Town of Edson continues to provide recycling services through the Edson & District Recycling Society This rate reduction is a positive step toward a more sustainable and cost-effective future for both our community and the province A Fire Restriction has been issued for the Town of Edson Based on the current and predicted weather conditions The Town of Edson has instituted a Fire Restriction This fire restriction will stay in place until further notice and will be reviewed as conditions improve or worsen NOTICE – A Town Council Meeting will be held on May 6 The agenda includes the Draft Mill Rate Bylaw No 2325; B1 Sanitary Rehabilitation Project Area Adjustment; Traffic Signs and Signs Maintenance and Replacement Policy O-T-18-C; Sidewalk and Gutter Maintenance Policy O-T-19-C; Draft Community Grants Policy C-S-11-C; and the Alberta Rural Health Week Proclamation You can find the full meeting agenda and information package here: Edson - Meeting Information Our live stream will be available on our YouTube channel, on Facebook Live, and at www.edson.ca/live Traffic flow in the area has returned to normal Hillcrest Court Building B will be secured For building-related questions or access requests please contact the property management company directly affected residents can contact Griffiths Park Centre after 08:00 AM tomorrow at 780-725-0582 Residents should also contact their insurance provider as soon as possible to discuss coverage and next steps No further updates will be provided at this time A full release with additional details will be issued in the coming days Residents of Hillcrest Court Building B will be allowed escorted access until 18:00 (6:00 PM) to retrieve essential items only Please check in at the Town of Edson vehicle on 10th Avenue to make arrangements Residents of Hillcrest Court Building B will be allowed escorted access at 16:00 to retrieve essential items only A major incident (fire) is currently underway at the corner of 56th Street and 10th Avenue Both vehicle and pedestrian traffic in the area are affected.Road Closures & Detours:Please avoid the area and use alternate routes Significant delays are expected.Impact on Schools:With schools in close proximity and dismissal approaching parents and students should plan alternate routes.Emergency Response:Fire crews Yellowhead County Fire has been called in to assist with the response please do not enter the area.Further Updates:Additional information will be provided as it becomes available Please monitor official communication channels for the latest updates Your cooperation is appreciated in ensuring public safety The Edson RCMP Detachment will be hosting a Town Hall Meeting on March 20 starting at 7PM at the Edson Friendship Centre S/Sgt Christian Delisle is inviting the community to meet with him to discuss the policing priorities for 2025 - 2026 This meeting is open to all residents of the Town of Edson and the Yellowhead County to ask questions and provide important feedback The event is being sponsored by the Edson RCMP The Town of Edson will be live streaming this event on Facebook Live and on our YouTube Channel We are looking forward to hearing from you The Town of Edson is committed to fostering a strong safety culture for both our staff and the public staff will participate in Safety Day on Wednesday for a day of training and professional development some Town facilities will be temporarily closed Protective Services Building (emergency response is not impacted) Please contact the Wastewater Treatment Plant at 780-728-5646 if access or assistance is required All impacted facilities will resume regular hours on Thursday We appreciate your understanding as our staff take time to enhance safety knowledge and practices across all departments Hazard reduction burning will be taking place north of Hillendale starting Tuesday April 15th(weather and resource dependent) Hazard reduction burning is a vital wildfire mitigation strategy especially helpful during the spring dip—a period when vegetation moisture is at its lowest and fire risk is significantly heightened which decreases the available fuel for potential wildfires Residents may notice some smoke in the area during burning hours and while we understand this can be stressful for some we want to assure residents that this is a controlled burn and all precautions are being taken to ensure safety This burn is being fully monitored and manned by members of the Edson Fire Department please contact the Edson Fire Department at 780-723-3178 The Town of Edson is proud to launch the AGENT Program (Authorized General Enforcement for Nuisances and Trespassing) a collaborative initiative aimed at enhancing public safety and supporting our local business community the AGENT Program will empower Peace Officers—including RCMP and Community Peace Officers—to act on behalf of participating businesses to address loitering and other disruptions on private property efficiently and legally Why the AGENT Program?Edson has experienced a rise in incidents of encampments and loitering which can create challenges for businesses and their customers Local business owners have shared concerns about these activities affecting their operations and the perception of safety in the area The AGENT Program builds on existing Alberta laws such as the Petty Trespass Act and the Trespass to Premises Act to give businesses a stronger voice in maintaining their property By authorizing Peace Officers to act as their agents participating businesses can ensure timely interventions to address concerns and foster a safer community Program LaunchThe AGENT Program will officially launch at the RCMP Town Hall on November 20 Local business owners are invited to attend and register to participate This initiative aligns with the Town of Edson’s commitment to: Want to Join?Business owners interested in the program can register at the Town Hall or contact Edson Enforcement Services for more information For more details, visit Enforcement Services | Town of Edson Council gave first reading to Aerial Fire Truck Debenture Bylaw No This Bylaw would allow for the borrowing of a maximum of $2,750,000 with a maximum interest rate of 6% and a maximum term of 20 years for the capital purchase of an Aerial Fire Truck in 2025 Why does the Town of Edson need a new truck Engine 604 is reaching the end of its lifespan as a frontline fire apparatus Fire Protection Association (NFPA)1900 (2024 Annex F-F.1) recommends placing apparatus older than 15 years into a reserve status A direct replacement of 604 was estimated at $1.1 million to $2 million an aerial truck (commonly known as a ladder truck) was recommended and approved as a replacement in the 2025 budget An aerial truck would provide a higher service level for our community with additional capabilities for increased life safety and property protection An aerial has greater effectiveness for fire suppression providing vertical access for both firefighting and rescue operations This would also enhance Edson’s Fire underwriters Survey (FUS) rating by improving the town's ability to respond to low-rise fires and large commercial incidents With the growing number of large buildings having this extra capability is a growing need in our community Some examples of such facilities include Weyerhaeuser This also greatly impacts fire suppression operations in standard single-family homes as well The Town of Edson is aware of the “sticker shock” of a number like $2.75 million This is a substantial purchase for our community A debenture was chosen by Council as a way to spread the debt payments over several years giving generational ownership of this purchase as opposed to the bulk sum being fronted by current residents only that while $2.75 million is the number requested in the bylaw this is the maximum amount being considered As Council and Administration go through the 2026 budget process all efforts will be made to find efficiencies to bring that amount to be borrowed down Grants and other funding will also be explored as we look to keep this as affordable as possible for our residents A notice of the Bylaw will go in the newspaper for 2 consecutive weeks starting February 10 through to February 23 electors have 15 days to file a petition against the Bylaw More information regarding the petition process can be found here: https://www.alberta.ca/petition-information-for-electors The Edson Landfill will be closed from 11:30 AM to 1:15 PM today We thank you for your patience during the closure The pool will be temporarily closed from May 20 to 27 This closure will support construction efforts tied to Phase 1 of the YCE project which is currently underway at the north end of the leisure centre The rest of the leisure centre, including the dry pad areas, will remain open and operating as scheduled during this period. Updates regarding any program changes or impacts will be posted at Edson and District Leisure Centre | Town of Edson and on our social media channels We understand how important access to aquatic programming is for our community and apologize for any inconvenience this temporary closure may cause By working closely with our construction team and facility operators we aim to limit disruption and ensure a smooth and timely reopening of the pool We appreciate your patience and continued support as we invest in Edson’s recreational infrastructure The YCE project will help create more dynamic modernized spaces to serve our residents and visitors well into the future please contact EDLC directly at 780-723-7665 Edson Fire Department was dispatched to a reported structure fire in the area of 54th Street South Edson Fire Department responded with a command vehicle Mutual aid was requested from Yellowhead County Fire who supported us with a command vehicle Support was also provided by two private water trucks and Town of Edson Utilities and Public Works crews encountered heavy fire in a commercial shop style building A tender nursing operation was established cycling Edson and Yellowhead tenders to the closest available fire hydrant Crews on scene utilized several attack lines on interior and exterior positions to control the fire There was significant fire extension into the attic space which was controlled with the support of Yellowhead County’s ladder truck The fire was contained by crews to the shop area preserving office and dwelling spaces attached A thorough overhaul took place to ensure complete extinguishment There is extensive structural damage to the building resulting from the fire A third-party investigator will be conducting the fire investigation for this incident The Town of Edson would like to thank all involved in containing this incident including EFD and Yellowhead County fire crews and our industry partners Edson’s updated Fees and Charges Bylaw is now in effect The Fees and Charges Bylaw is updated annually in accordance with Council’s approved budget and sets the various rates for the Town of Edson The new bylaw also includes some rate and fee structure changes for the Edson and District Leisure Centre which go into effect in March and July of this year More information on those changes will be released on our website and social media channels soon See the full Fees and Charges Bylaw, and the new fee schedule with effective dates at www.edson.ca/bylaws GFL Environmental will once again be conducting the Spring Clean Up for residential properties that are on the Town's curbside waste collection program Place your items on the boulevard where your waste carts are usually picked up Make sure everything is out the night before your scheduled pickup to avoid being missed Who’s Eligible?This service is for residential properties that receive and pay for curbside waste collection through the Town of Edson The Edson Landfill will be accepting items at no charge on May 30 & 31 You’ll need to transport your items there yourself Note: If you have private waste pickup (like in Mobile Home Parks or Apartment Buildings) please contact your provider or use the free landfill drop-off days See here for a list of what is and isn’t accepted through this program Serving up some fun at Edson’s new community volleyball net earlier this year are a health promotion facilitator with Healthy Schools for AHS; Audrey St-Francois a health promotion facilitator with Healthier Together Edson for AHS; and Diana Inscho a community development coordinator for the Town of Edson EDSON — While the newly installed volleyball court in Edson has officially closed for the season town residents came together for lots of healthy fun Installed on Aug. 21, across from Griffiths Park Centre, the court was made possible through the AHS Healthier Together initiative in collaboration with local partners including the Community Engagement Action Team (CEAT) It proved a busy and active space for community engagement and social interaction in Edson various groups of local residents enjoyed the court active gathering place for friends and families “Bringing the volleyball court to Edson was about more than just sport — it was about creating a space for youth to connect and enjoy the outdoors,” says Audrey St-Francois the AHS Healthier Together health promotion facilitator in Edson who helped bring the project to fruition “The feedback we’ve received from the community so far has been really positive and confirms the need for this recreational opportunity.” The installation of an outdoor community volleyball court is the result of community input gathered through local surveys and meetings Feedback identified the need to enhance social connections and recreational opportunities for youth “The volleyball court has been extremely well received in our community,” says Lexi Abbott community development coordinator with the Town of Edson “It was exciting to see youth make use of the space within 24 hours of the net being installed even before we had a chance to advertise it “This area has become a fantastic place for youth stay active and enjoy quality time outside We’re very pleased with the outcome of this project.” 24 community youth event also raised awareness of the new court and attracted about 25 residents music and snacks — and fostered a healthy atmosphere of fun and connection The court is expected to reopen in the spring St-Francois adds: “We’re looking forward to more events and gatherings ensuring that the volleyball court continues to serve as a hub for connection and recreation in Edson.” For more information about the AHS Healthier Together initiative in Edson, visit Community Engagement Action Team | Town of Edson   Our work takes place on historical and contemporary Indigenous lands Treaty 7 & Treaty 8 and the homeland of the Métis Nation of Alberta and 8 Métis Settlements We also acknowledge the many Indigenous communities that have been forged in urban centres across Alberta © Alberta Health Services 2025 Terms of UsePrivacy Statement Town of Edson Operations During Canada Post Strike The Town of Edson will not be mailing physical copies of Utility invoices notices and other important information to residents due to the ongoing Postal Strike Edson residents are encouraged to register for electronic billing Details on how to sign up and make payments during the strike are noted below Residents are advised against sending payments for taxes utilities or other invoices through the mail Please note that there is no change to due dates for amounts owing and late charges will still apply if payment is made late The Town has made the following arrangements to assist residents and ensure the continuity of customer service during the disruption in postal service: A reliable sanitary sewer system efficiently manages waste by transporting it to treatment facilities Even the most eco-conscious households contribute to sewage waste and non-flushable items like feminine hygiene products and grease all that waste can flow right back into your home helps stop sewage from reversing its flow back into your home during pressure build-ups and flooding events Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential to ensure these devices function effectively when needed the Town of Edson introduced a sewer backflow prevention installation program offering to cover 50% of the installation cost we discovered that many homes still flooded because they lacked sump pumps with weeping tiles directly connected to the sewer line the Council has expanded the program to also include a 50% reimbursement for the installation of a sump and pump system that discharges outside your home **Note this program does not cover a replacement it is for new installations only** The Sanitary Sewer Installation Program aims to help residents and business owners protect their properties The Council has allocated a budget for the program first-served basis until the budget is fully utilized The program identifies potential causes of backups and offers a subsidy (50% of the cost) for installing both "Back-Flow" prevention devices and sump pump systems Note: This program is intended for gravity flow systems Application Submission: Home or business owners must apply to determine if their property is eligible for the subsidy Preliminary Inspection: A Town of Edson representative will conduct a preliminary inspection of the property a checklist and a camera report will be provided to the home or business owner Reimbursement: The Town of Edson will reimburse 50% of the invoice amount Please complete the following forms and submit them with your application: Edson Fire Department was dispatched for a reported structure fire on an apartment balcony in the Westhaven area Edson Fire Department responded with two command vehicles Mutual aid was requested from Yellowhead County Fire and Town of Edson Community Services which played a vital role in activating and employing Emergency Social Services supports for impacted residents The first arriving fire officer found a working fire on a second story balcony The first arriving engine deployed an attack line to third floor to stop forward ingress of the fire to the apartments as well as control the fire in the attic space The first arriving engine also deployed a handline to the exterior for control of exterior fire spread  apparatuses conducted a variety of tasks including a second interior handline deployed to the second floor There was substantial fire extension into the common attic space which was controlled from interior positions were removed by emergency crews and reunited with owners by aid of Community Peace Officers The area of the building that encountered the fire has been severely damaged Residents are expected to be displaced for an undetermined amount of time If access is required to gather personal belongings residents must contact property management or ownership as the fire department is not holding security of the scene Residents should reach out to their contents/tenant insurance provider they are encouraged to reach out to Red Cross at 1-888-800-6493 Red Cross may provide assistance for the first 72 hours following the incident The Edson Fire Department would like to thank all the supporting agencies who played a role in the quick mitigation of this incident The Edson Friendship Centre is planning the Santa Claus Parade this year and look out for the Big Guy in Red this Saturday The parade starts from the Parkland School parking lot at 6pm and follows a new route this year 2024 Santa Claus Parade Info 2024 Santa Claus Parade Map Alberta Health Services (AHS) has expanded its Virtual Emergency Physician program to the Edson Healthcare Centre This pilot project helps improve support for emergency department (ED) patients in rural communities like ours How It Works:When there’s no on-site ED physician available an experienced rural/northern ED physician can support local clinical staff remotely via phone or video This virtual physician can:- Collaborate with on-site staff- Speak with patients directly- Order tests and medications- Assist with transfers or discharges This service ensures timely and safe care for patients with non-life-threatening concerns EMS will transfer patients to the appropriate facility with in-person ED physician support “Programs like this help ensure rural Albertans receive the care they need when they need it,” says MLA Martin Long ensures that low-acuity patients are supported while AHS continues recruiting in-person ED physicians for our community If there’s a service disruption at Edson Healthcare Centre AHS will communicate whether a virtual physician will be available For the full release from AHS visit Alberta Health Services Council was honoured to receive a framed print from STARS Air Ambulance as a token of appreciation for the Town of Edson’s continued partnership and dedication to supporting critical care services in Alberta The presentation was made by Glenda Farnden Senior Municipal Relations Liaison with STARS who also delivered the organization’s Annual Update to Council Farnden highlighted the impact STARS has had on the Edson region: 100 Edson residents have been flown by STARS to receive urgent medical care across Alberta and into British Columbia and Saskatchewan STARS has completed 141 missions directly from the Edson Hospital and 64 additional missions from the immediate surrounding area The Town of Edson is proud to support the work of STARS and remains committed to helping ensure rapid access to critical care for residents in times of emergency Council and administration extend their thanks to STARS for their ongoing service and partnership and the public and catholic school board trustees will be held on Monday Below is a listing of key dates relating to the upcoming election For specific election details, the register of candidates, legislative changes, and more, visit www.edson.ca/election2025 There are some delays with the extra waste and organics bin requests Under the new Solid Waste & Recycling Bylaw residents are now able to request an additional waste (grey) cart for a fee of $7.50 per month while an extra organics (green) cart is available at no additional charge GFL is currently out of bins and it's expected to be around 4-5 weeks for delivery Thank you for your patience while we await bin delivery Council has approved the 2025 Capital and Operating Budgets A $40.03 million operating budget was approved that balances several factors such as cost of services and alignment with the Strategic Priorities of Council “Council is committed to passing budgets that keep affordability in mind as we continue to face extreme inflationary pressures and infrastructure demands This is a difficult balance considering the increasing costs to municipalities but we feel we’ve been presented a fair budget that addresses the needs of the Town with quality levels of service for our residents.-Edson Mayor Kevin Zahara The anticipated municipal tax levy increase for 2025 is 4% This assumes no growth in assessment as that data is not yet available On an average residential assessment of $350,000 this would equate to an estimated increase of $8 per month This budget also includes an approximate increase of 3% in user fees and an average of 5% in utility fees This allows the Town to keep pace with inflationary costs and contribute towards the operating and capital reserves for future planning Council has also approved the 2025 Capital Budget A large focus remains on infrastructure improvements and flood mitigation efforts with sanitary sewer and road upgrades The much-anticipated start of the YCE Multiplex Project is scheduled and funded for 2025 as well as some improvements at Vision Park and the purchase of an Aerial Truck for the Fire Department.The 2025 Capital Budget includes twenty-seven (27) initiatives with an investment of $42,086,075 The Capital Budget is funded 53.1% from grants 20.1% from other local governments and boards 2025 Budget (Nov, 14, 2024) The Town of Edson is working on a Housing Strategy to better understand and meet the housing needs of our growing community Phase 1 focuses on identifying the current housing situation in Edson through a Housing Needs Assessment Your input is critical in shaping the future of housing in our town The Housing Needs Assessment is the first step in developing a comprehensive Housing Strategy for Edson This assessment will gather important information to provide a clear picture of our town's housing situation This assessment will provide the foundation for future planning and help ensure that Edson can offer a range of housing options that are safe To make sure the Housing Needs Assessment reflects the real experiences of Edson residents Your feedback will be essential in identifying housing challenges Here’s how you can get involved in Phase 1: Survey: Starting November 4, 2024, share your thoughts by completing our online survey Edson Housing Strategy Survey. You can also request a printed copy by contacting Morgan Roberts at ecdev@edson.ca or 780-723-4401 Join us in person to learn more about the Housing Needs Assessment and help guide the next steps in addressing Edson’s housing needs we need to ensure that housing options reflect the needs of all residents your input will help us understand where we need to focus our efforts to improve housing availability and affordability Have Questions? For more information or to provide additional feedback, contact: Morgan RobertsEconomic Development OfficerPhone: (780) 723-4401Email: ecdev@edson.ca By participating in Phase 1 of Edson’s Housing Strategy you’ll be helping to shape a future where everyone in our community can find a home that meets their needs the Town of Edson will implement updated fee structures for our leisure facilities These adjustments ensure that we can continue providing high-quality recreational spaces and support the diverse needs of our community you can now enjoy access to all drop-in activities for one simple price or under a single membership This new structure is aimed at making it easier and more affordable for everyone to participate in the activities they love while enjoying the convenience of one comprehensive fee For more details on pricing and membership options, visit Fees and Charges Bylaw Join us at the Edson and District Leisure Centre and make the most of this exciting new change and enjoying all the fun activities we have to offer A huge congratulations today to the Edson and District Public Library - Presented by Peyto Exploration & Development Corp The Grand Reopening Ceremony was held at noon today and other dignitaries were on hand to help commemorate the event as well as the Chair and Vice-Chair of the Library Board This $3.7 million renovation project was a joint effort between the Province of Alberta and the Town of Edson Library Board through various grants and funding and we're very happy to see it come to fruition https://www.edsonlibrary.ca/ The Town of Edson’s population has been relatively stable throughout the last five years with the 2021 census data showing a population of close to 8,400 residents The majority of Edson residents live in residential neighbourhoods made up of predominantly single-detached homes; however there is an increasing need for alternative housing types at different affordability levels to better meet the diverse and changing needs of current and future residents Providing a mixture of housing types and tenures of varying levels of affordability is essential for creating a diverse There are two parts to the Housing Strategy. The first part involved completing a Housing Needs Assessment to better understand the current housing situation in Edson (completed in the fall of 2024) and future priorities were explored across the full housing continuum which represents a range of housing options that can be available in a community The second part (current phase of engagement) is the development of the Housing Strategy itself which provides a roadmap to help the Town and community partners create and maintain an affordable Both parts of the project involve engagement with the local community and interested and affected organizations We are currently in Phase 2: Developing Housing Actions The feedback we received in the first phase of engagement along with a review of background information was used to develop the draft goals and actions of the Housing Strategy We want to hear from you to confirm that we captured your feedback accurately and gather your input on the proposed goals and actions that have been developed based on your feedback and the demographic and community data Provide your feedback on the draft Housing Strategy by participating in the engagement opportunities between March 10 to March 31 Starting March 10, click HERE to complete the survey or contact Morgan Roberts at ecdev@edson.ca or 780-723-4401 to request a printed copy Join us at the upcoming in-person community event to learn more about the project and share your thoughts 2025Edson & District Public Library Presented by Peyto Exploration & Development Corp.4726 - 8 Avenue3:30 - 6:30 pm your feedback will be used to help us finalize the Housing Strategy and Implementation Plan and community leads and partners required to successfully implement the Housing Strategy A Glossary of Terms has been prepared to describe housing policy terms you may not be familiar with. It can be viewed here A new website at www.ycemultiplex.ca will be a focal point for all information about the new YCE Multiplex It will also have regular updates on construction progress as the project takes shape Discover the Future of Recreation for Edson and Yellowhead County Join us in celebrating the development of our state-of-the-art recreation complex designed to enhance community life and foster a healthy lifestyle The YCE Multiplex Project is scheduled for construction to start in 2025 Go to www.ycemultiplex.ca to visit the new site and keep up-to-date on the project A person is not eligible to be nominated as a candidate in the election if on nomination day: For more election information, visit www.edson.ca/election2025 Depleted Bearcats squad claws out first round playoff victory If you thought that the final of the Four Nations Faceoff would be the hockey highlight of your week If you figured the most hockey-related stress you’d have would be seeing Jordan Binnington making game-saving stops against Team U.S.A If you believed the most exciting team to watch in red and white this week would be Team Canada After finishing third in the Tier 1 Non-Checking/Body Contact Only league the Bearcats started their 2025 playoff experience against the Edson Sabres coach Rob Olson organized a few ODR (outdoor rink) practices at Lake Mildred These fun outdoor sessions had the added benefit of ensuring the team could still catch the Canada-U.S which was scheduled to take place during the Bearcats’ regular practice time Bearcats parents took the afternoon off work and pulled players (and some siblings) out of school to make the drive to Edson for a rare weekday matinee Matteo Artiaga went up the gut but was tripped before he could get a shot away Edson scored a shortie with their guy in the box Edson went up 2-0 but Cohen Fitzgerald scored on a wide-angle shot to pull the Bearcats within one Ash Habib levelled the score by jitterbugging to the centre and making his shot count.  After the second Rock-solid defenders Kellan Smallshaw and Morgan Staneland wouldn’t let the Sabres grab another Ben Derksen’s heavy work down low disrupted more than a few plays.  fireball Anna Gifford tumbled awkwardly into the boards and had to leave the game This added to a long list of injuries for the Bearcats throughout the season including captain Matthew Derksen and assistant Ruby Olson home-and-home series was being decided on aggregate: total goals over both games This meant that at the rubber match in Jasper the Bearcats would need to win by two to book their tickets to the next round the Bearcats welcomed the Sabres to the Jasper Arena on Sunday afternoon Myles Misskey was out of the backcountry and back in the lineup despite being badly outshot.  Luka Kahlina was holding sway in the net the Bearcats took the lead on a Fitzgerald power play marker Forwards Carter Schmidt and Louis Campeau did their part on both defence and breakouts. Jaifred Mota made an awesome backcheck diving to poke the puck away from a Sabre on a clean break Versatile Molleigh McGrath opened the game on wing but moved back to reinforce the defence where her strength and moxie were appreciated playing possibly her best game of the season Fitzgerald had several near-misses this game his wicked wrister off by only a whisker.  Both teams were pushing for a series winner to avoid overtime The back-and-forth action was more than a little intense for the arena full of parents who had spent the last six months driving all over northwestern Alberta and very badly wanted to do it at least one more time You could say the same for assistant coaches Toby Gifford and Matt Staneland all of whom have dedicated countless hours to this team and weren’t ready to see the season end Jasper took an unfortunate penalty with just a few minutes left and Edson scored off a rebound on the ensuing powerplay But then Edson took a too-many-men penalty with just under two minutes left Habib collected a pass in the slot from Fitzgerald snagged his own rebound and roofed a backhand to take the lead and knot the series score As Edmonton Oilers broadcaster Jack Michaels might put it: WHAT CAN YOU SAAAAYYYYY??!! But an unforced icing put them back in their own end a quick give and go allowed them to exit the zone three Bearcats streaking down the ice.  out to the point…a shot from the blue line by Clark White corralled and lifted over the goalie by THAT MAN “WHAT A TIME TO BE ALIVE!!!!!” Broadcaster Paco Artiaga’s elated call rang through the arena and across the internet It may have been the loudest cheer at the Jasper Arena all year; and to the players and the parents the ensuing celebration rivalled the one three nights earlier when Connor McDavid scored Canada’s winner Habib’s goal put the Bearcats up by one aggregate goal with 45.7 seconds remaining and they ran down the clock to win the series Come cheer the Bearcats on vs the Pembina Pirates on Sunday Lucas Habib // info@thejasperlocal.com The page you are looking for doesn't exist! You can either go back, search below, or start fresh from the home page it’s great to see Griffiths Park Centre coming back to life The outdoor basketball courts are once again a popular spot and we’re excited to see so many people making the most of the space we’d like to offer a friendly reminder to please use the garbage bins provided and help keep the area clean for everyone to enjoy A tidy park benefits all visitors and shows pride in our community we appreciate everyone doing their part to keep the park safe and welcoming Thanks for helping us take care of this valued community space Let’s enjoy a great spring season at Griffiths Park Centre—together Election Day: The next general election for Mayor and the Public and Catholic School Board trustees will be held on Monday The website will be updated as new information becomes available     Register of Candidates Information for Candidates Information for Voters Additional Resources FAQ Firewood will also be available for pickup on Tuesday We’re excited to offer free firewood to Edson residents tomorrow The firewood comes from downed trees collected from various locations around town It’s a great opportunity to grab some wood for the winter and we’re happy to give back to the community in this way Staff will be on-site to help direct traffic and ensure everything runs smoothly Please be mindful and avoid overfilling your vehicle – this way everyone has a chance to get some firewood For a map of the firewood location, check out this link Let’s make sure everyone gets a fair share so please follow the guidelines and enjoy your free firewood Future Parking Plan for Edson & District Leisure Centre Site the Town of Edson conducted public engagement with information sessions and a parking survey for the YCE Multiplex project The feedback received was invaluable and taken into consideration as the final parking plan was developed The final parking layout takes into account important factors such as preserving park/treed space A new main parking lot will be constructed on the north-west corner and along the north side The natural flow from the main parking lot would move around to the east side of the facility into the new parking spaces Access to the new lobby would be on both from the west (main entrance) and east side (secondary entrance) of the facility The south parking spaces will remain with some adjustments on the south-west corner of the existing parking lot with access near the south-west end (secondary entrance) of the facility This parking design will convert 48th Street into a one-way south bound between 10th -12th Avenue Grande Yellowhead Public School Division coordinates bussing for both School Divisions and the Transportation Department is aware of these changes and planning accordingly No physical changes are expected until after the current school year concludes The construction schedule for implementing these parking and roadway changes is still under consideration a more detailed implementation plan and timeline will be announced We would like to thank everyone that participated in the parking engagement. It was through this process that generated new ideas taken into consideration in the final design. While we understand it may not hit the mark with everyone, we believe it strikes the right balance for the priorities identified during the engagement process and the needs of the new facility. See the results of the engagement in the “What We Heard Report” at www.edson.ca/engage More information will be provided as the project construction continues, watch for updates on ycemultiplex.ca. In the meantime, questions on this parking plan can be directed to Doug Wagstaff, General Manager Community & Protective Services, Town of Edson dougw@edson.ca A reminder that organics pickup switches to biweekly after this week  There will be NO organics pickup next week See the attached schedule for the remainder of the year or visit www.edson.ca/curbside for details The Town of Edson is known for our wide range of special events that take place each year throughout the community We want to help make sure your events go off without a hitch A new Special Events Policy has been established to help streamline procedures for residents and businesses planning to hold events in Town parks See the application form below and direct any questions to Email: cserv@edson.ca                        Phone: 780-725-0582 please complete a Special Event Permit Application form It’s important to start planning early to ensure all necessary arrangements are in place It is important to ensure that you submit your Special Event Permit Application 30 days prior to the event date This allows ample time for the necessary reviews and approvals ensuring your event runs smoothly and complies with all local regulations Make sure to plan ahead and submit your application within this time frame to avoid any last-minute issues. Happy planning!For inquiries, reach out to Cserv@edson.ca Once you are ready to start your application please complete the Special Event Permit Application Form The application prompts you to consider what services your event will require and provides our staff with the information we need to understand your event A Special Permit Application MUST be completed and submitted at least 30 days prior to your event applications must be submitted 45 days prior to the event Once your Special Event Permit Application is submitted and a decision will be made within 5 business days Please note that during the review process we may request revisions to your application or ask for additional documents if deemed necessary This ensures that all aspects of your event are thoroughly considered and that any potential issues are addressed before approval Once approved, we welcome you to showcase your event on the Town of Edson Community Event's Calendar. Please submit your event at www.edson.ca/submit Special Event Permit Online Application Download a PDF Copy of the Special Events Permit Application Special Event Permit Application Guidelines Special Events Policy Emergency Response Plan Template Emergency Response Plan Example #1 - ParadeEmergency Response Plan Example #2 - Celebration Site Map Example #1 - Parade Site Map Example #2 - Celebration If your event is a pre-planned activity that uses or impacts public property or facilities and requires Town of Edson public safety services then you will need a special events permit applications must be submitted 45 days prior to the event.Please refer to Step 2: Complete a Special Event Application for more information You need to purchase insurance for your event to cover potential risks and liabilities and other unforeseen incidents that could occur during the event and the municipality are financially protected in case of any claims or legal actions arising from the event An Emergency Response Plan (ERP) is a set of procedures and guidelines to help prepare for and respond to various emergencies that might occur during your event It ensures the safety of everyone involved and helps minimize the impact of any incidents Here's a simple breakdown of what an ERP typically includes and why it's necessary: By having a well-thought-out Emergency Response Plan you ensure that your event is safe and that you can handle any emergencies efficiently The Town will not authorize a Special Event that: the Town of Edson is not responsible for any costs incurred by the organizer if a Special Event is cancelled or refused In the case of a denied Special Event Application or for any specific conditions of approval the event organizer may submit an appeal in writing to the General Manager of Community and Protective Services In the event the appeal is not resolved to the satisfaction of the event organizer they may submit their appeal in writing to the Chief Administrative Officer for consideration General Manager Commuity & Protective Services605 50th Street Edson Chief Administrative Officer605 50th Street Edson Q: Do I need to complete a separate Temporary Road Closure Permit for my event if your event requires road or sidewalk occupancy the Special Event Permit Application will address the need for a temporary road closure within the document You will be prompted to add the necessary information while filling out the application form This process ensures that road closures are managed safely and that appropriate measures are in place to minimize disruption to traffic and the local community Q: When is a Temporary Road Closure Permit required A: A Temporary Road Closure Permit is only required for construction purposes For all other events involving road closures the Special Event Permit Application will cover your needs We recognize the concern and frustration as we work to address concerns surrounding homeless encampments around our community Balancing the needs of our community members and individuals experiencing homelessness is a priority If you encounter an encampment and require assistance Our RCMP and Municipal Enforcement teams are dedicated to working together and handling these situations with care and compassion Municipal Enforcement can be reached via dispatch by calling (825) 605-5432 A reminder that business owners are encouraged to attend a Town Hall Meeting on November 20th starting at 7PM at the Edson Friendship Centre to discuss the topic of homelessness The change in seasons is a great reminder to refresh the items in your emergency kit to meet seasonal needs Warmer Alberta months introduce several hazards to consider. Know the risks in your community so you and your loved ones can be prepared For more detailed information, please refer to our Flood Mitigation FAQ sheet, which is available as a downloadable PDF here The Town of Edson is actively working to reduce the risk of flooding through various infrastructure upgrades and maintenance efforts Our goal is to better equip our community to handle heavy rain events and minimize potential damage the Town of Edson responded promptly to the challenges posed by heavy rainfall Crews were dispatched to clear fallen trees and remove debris from drainage points to mitigate flooding impacts Immediate site inspections were also conducted to assess any damage and ensure that our drainage systems were functioning effectively While the Town of Edson is doing everything possible to manage flood risks homeowners also play a crucial role in protecting their properties: Install a Backflow Preventer: These devices are essential for preventing sewage from backing up into your home during heavy rain or pressure build-ups Our subsidy program can help offset the cost Maintain Your Sump Pump: Ensure your sump pump is operational and consider adding a battery backup to keep it running during power outages Keep Drains and Gutters Clear: Regularly clear your gutters and storm drains of debris to ensure proper water flow away from your home Review Your Insurance Coverage: Make sure your homeowner’s insurance includes flood protection consider adding coverage to protect against future flooding events In response to the flooding issues and to help residents safeguard their homes, the Town of Edson has expanded our Sanitary Sewer Backflow Installation Program This initiative provides a subsidy to cover 50% of the installation cost for backflow preventers and sump pump systems Eligibility: The program is available to residents on a first-come first-served basis until the allocated funds are depleted Property Inspection: A Town representative will conduct an inspection to assess your property and recommend the best flood prevention solutions This includes a detailed camera inspection of your sewer lines Installation and Reimbursement: After receiving approval hire a licensed plumber to install the recommended devices submit the paid invoice to the Town for reimbursement of 50% of the cost Required Paperwork: To participate, homeowners must complete and submit the necessary application forms, inspection checklist, and plumber’s invoice. All relevant documents and information can be found and downloaded here The Town of Edson is committed to keeping our community informed about ongoing and future flood mitigation efforts We know that flooding can be concerning, especially when you see parking lots and streets filling with water. Several factors, including high winds, intense rainfall, and infrastructure limitations, can impact storm sewer performance during a storm. We’ve detailed these issues and more in our Flood Mitigation FAQ sheet, available for download here If you have immediate concerns or need to report flooding issues we can work to protect our homes and community from future flooding events Thank you for your continued cooperation and resilience as we move forward The Town of Edson Protective Services Department wants to remind residents about the importance of shoveling snow this winter Snow and ice covered sidewalks play a big role in a majority of winter injuries in Canada residents are responsible for clearing the entire width of the sidewalk down to the bare pavement Sand and/or salt need to be applied to sidewalks immediately after a freeze-thaw cycle Please do not shovel snow onto streets since it can contribute to unsafe road conditions do not shovel snow onto neighboring properties Those who do not comply with the Community Standards could face a fine of $150 and could be charged with clean up costs as well If you have a concern about an uncleared sidewalk, call Enforcement Services at 825-605-5432 or use the Town of Edson Mobile App’s Report-a-Problem feature. Report-a-Problem is also available through the website at https://www.edson.ca/services/report-a-problem Council has given all three (3) readings to Bylaw 2319 This bylaw outlines the regulations and fines associated with placement of Election Signs in the Town of Edson and comes into effect on May 1st A revised 2025 Operating and Capital Budget has been approved The spring adjustments presented result in a municipal taxation levy reduction of approximately $309,000 from the original 2025 Operating Budget Administration presented the process and timeline for the 2026 Budget preparations Public engagement will take place from April to August and will include a Budget and Public Satisfaction Survey More information will be shared as the dates are set and further details are available Council has approved a letter to be sent to Alberta Municipal Affairs Minister Ric McIver highlighting concerns over Bill 50 and proposed changes to the Municipal Government Act Next meetings— The next Town Council Meeting is scheduled for May 6 The next Committee of the Whole Meeting is scheduled for May 13 Agenda/Information package here. App users can watch the video here. There are three distinct levels of government in Canada: municipal All levels of government have important roles in the lives of Canadians While there is some overlap in funding and grants for certain programs each level of government is ultimately responsible for very specific portfolios As we head into a Federal and Municipal election in 2025 it’s important to understand the different responsibilities of each level of government While the Town of Edson is not responsible for some of the items listed above we do advocate on behalf of our residents to other levels of government to ensure our voices are heard and that there is appropriate funding in place Residents are also encouraged to reach out to their federal MP (Member of Parliament) or provincial MLA (Member of the Legislative Assembly) if they have concerns about federal or provincial programs or areas of responsibility Municipal governments and governed by the Municipal Government Act (MGA) and are responsible for establishing bylaws and delivering services that support the municipality establishing protective services like fire and community peace officers have the authority to make decisions which affect the entire province or territory This includes items like healthcare and hospitals and maintenance of highways (including Highway 16 through our community) The Federal Government has a responsibility for items that affect the entire country