- Edmonton city council's executive committee unanimously backed a proposal on Feb. 11 to designate "Happy Beer Street" (78 Avenue between 100 Street and 99 Street) as an entertainment district. To address concerns, the district would have a 10pm closing time, on-site security, and no outside liquor. The move would allow businesses like Bent Stick Brewing, Shiddy's Distilling, and Sea Change Brewing to more easily host events with public alcohol consumption. If approved by city council, it would be Edmonton's third entertainment district.
- Edmonton Public Schools brought school police officers back into six schools this month, after cancelling the program in September 2020 amid concerns about a "school-to-prison pipeline" for racialized students. The board voted to bring back the program in April 2024, citing increased school violence, including the April 2022 death of Karanveer Sahota. The redesigned program, developed with the Edmonton Police Service, features wraparound supports, mental health therapists, and a memorandum of understanding defining officers' preventative and educational roles.
- Edmonton's urban planning committee sent proposed amendments to municipal infill development regulations to city council, following two days of debate. The proposed changes would reduce the maximum mid-block units from eight to six and increase the minimum unit size. About 70 speakers spoke during the committee meeting, with developers arguing more restrictions could raise housing costs. Some residents expressed concerns about large infills affecting privacy and sunlight, regardless of unit count.
- In an online post, architect Josh Kjenner raised concerns over a proposal from Westrich Pacific for an interim parking lot at the vacant downtown Edmonton site of the former Bank of Montreal main branch, located at 101 Street NW and 102 Avenue NW. The site, empty since its 2017 demolition, was listed for sale in November 2025. Westrich Pacific presented its temporary plan to the Edmonton Design Committee on Jan. 20. Kjenner argues for the City of Edmonton to design development conditions through land acquisition and targeted subsidies to achieve desirable, high-quality buildings, rather than accepting stopgap measures that delay meaningful development.
- Charges are pending against the driver of a tractor-trailer that became lodged on Edmonton's High Level Bridge on Feb. 11. The Edmonton Police Service said there was significant damage to the bridge. No injuries were reported, and the investigation continues.
- The Edmonton Police Service charged 48-year-old church deacon Frezghi Zerezghi with sexual assault and sexual interference on Feb. 11 in connection with an incident that happened in November 2025 at a church near 121 Avenue and 103 Street in Edmonton. He was arrested on Dec. 12 and released on an undertaking. Police believe there may be other victims and ask anyone with information to contact EPS or Crime Stoppers.
- Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said "significant" deficits are coming, as the government prepares to unveil its provincial budget later this month. Smith ruled out tax hikes and deep service cuts despite low oil prices. Finance Minister Nate Horner stressed making "hard decisions." Opposition NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi criticized the government's spending, citing controversies and issues in health and education, while Smith also called for federal tax reform.
- The Edmonton Elks announced six new signings during CFL Free Agency. The team added defensive lineman Malik Carney (through 2027), quarterback Taylor Powell (through 2027), offensive lineman Coulter Woodmansey (through 2028), offensive linemen Brendan Bordner (through 2027) and Jordan Murray (through 2027), and wide receiver Brendan O'Leary-Orange (through 2026).
Headlines: Feb. 12, 2026
By Mariam Ibrahim