Speaking Municipally

Nov 01 2024 287 ep. 36 mins 188
Speaking Municipally Podcast artwork

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.

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There's no I in DIP

Nov 01 2024 52 mins  
The Downtown Investment Plan remains a hot topic of discussion. This week, we speak with Shani Gwin, a Métis woman, downtown business owner, AI entrepreneur, and DBA board member, for her take.Here are the relevant links for this episode:GuestsShani Gwin on LinkedInpipikwan pêhtâkwanDowntown Investment PlanDowntown Investment Plan (PDF)News Release: DIP INTO DOWNTOWN: Solution

Snow time like the present to talk about ice

Oct 25 2024 61 mins  
This week, we're getting an early start on winter by talking about snow and ice control. We speak with Mark Beare and Val Dacyk from the City of Edmonton about service standards for clearing roadways and active pathways, how much people love the snow plow map, how big the snow clearing operation is, what it would take to clear sidewalks, where your tax dollars go, and much more.Her

Just one more downtown plan bro, I promise it’s the last one

Oct 18 2024 58 mins  
A new report published by a coalition of business leaders calls for nearly $500 million of investment in Edmonton's downtown. We talk with the report's authors, Alexandra Hryciw and Jason Syvixay, about the action items, and what they hope to achieve.Here are the relevant links for this episode:GuestsAlexandra Hryciw on LinkedInDowntown Revitalization CoalitionJason Syvixay on Link

If it's not from the Deficit region of Canada, it's just generic "fiscal gap"

Oct 11 2024 40 mins  
Council heard more about the fiscal gap, though no action was taken yet. Plus, the latest transit ridership numbers, the Stadium Station redesign, whether to continue planting elm trees, and how this winter's approach to encampments will look a lot like last winter's despite increased need.Here are the relevant links for this episode:Fiscal gapEdmonton seeking solutions to fix grim

Taxes for you, but not for U CP

Oct 04 2024 36 mins  
Edmonton is going to have to pay much more for elections, but we can't say why without risking a $787 million settlement. Plus, we've got some news about district planning.Here are the relevant links for this episode:Property taxSohi launches campaign to ask province for more municipal supportEdmonton, other municipalities ask province to pay its property taxesFair Compensation Pro

Come for the risk-taking, stay for our sign

Sep 27 2024 37 mins  
This week, we discuss the new Edmonton sign, a new poll about the mayor and city council, new crashes into the LRT, and a new report on Canada's municipalities. Plus, updates on ChargeStop, homelessness, and the 2021 mayoral race.Here are the relevant links for this episode:ChargeStopChargeStop builds Canada's first dedicated EV station in StrathconaEdmonton signNews Release: How d

A fair shake for fare gates faces delay

Sep 20 2024 36 mins  
Council has decided to keep their representatives on the police commission, at least for now. Plus, we talk LRT station fare gates, EVs, bike lanes, and more.Here are the relevant links for this episode:Police commissionEdmonton won't remove city councillors from police commission, for nowAlberta hiring CEO for 'massive' new agency to investigate complaints against policeFare gates

13 months notice

Sep 13 2024 53 mins  
This week, Mack and Stephanie speak with Coun. Andrew Knack about his decision not to seek re-election in next year's municipal election. They also discuss the city's $34 million budget shortfall.Here are the relevant links for this episode:Andrew Knack@andrewknackAndrew Knack on LinkedInThe Toughest Decision I've Ever Made — Andrew KnackBudgetCity of Edmonton projecting $34M def

No photos, please

Sep 06 2024 42 mins  
This week, the province has all but banned photo radar in Alberta. Plus, we have more problems with composting, and cars driving into trains.Here are the relevant links for this episode:Police commissionEdmonton city council to weigh police commission request to remove council positions from boardPhoto radarNot so fast: Edmonton non-profit, city councillor push back on proposed pla

Seniors passes won’t double. That’s Fare.

Aug 30 2024 43 mins  
Council decided to stick with a smaller, previously-approved increase to transit fares, instead of asking for a big increase. We also discuss council procedures, BRT, shelter standards and locations, and the city's approach to major projects.Here are the relevant links for this episode:Fringe wrapEdmonton Fringe $72K short of fundraising goal as festival draws to a closeMHCare Medi