- BILD Edmonton Metro published a 22-point plan to reset the public conversation around infill development in Edmonton. The plan aims to address public backlash, including recent arsons, by proposing clear regulations, streamlined approvals and permitting, and improved communication with residents and businesses. Jan Hardstaff of the Residential Infill Working Group welcomed the commitment to considering residents as stakeholders. It intends to accelerate infill development to 50% of new housing, aligning with Edmonton's City Plan.
- The City of Edmonton's yard waste collection for curbside residences begins April 20, with two collection days until June 15. All pickups will happen on Mondays. Waste must be in clear plastic or double-ply paper bags. Residents can also use Eco Stations or add yard waste to food scraps carts. An elm tree pruning ban is in effect until Sept. 30 to prevent the spread of Dutch elm disease. The spring waste collection schedule begins April 28. The City will begin collecting food scraps weekly. Garbage collection remains on a biweekly schedule and recycling is collected weekly. Waste collection schedules are available through the WasteWise app.
- The Edmonton Police Service recorded fewer overall reports of hate crimes in 2025 compared to previous years, but said that violent incidents increased, comprising nearly 75% of cases. Police attributed the rise to "Alberta's evolving sociopolitical environment," including protests and online rhetoric. The 2SLGBTQIA+, Black, South Asian, and Arab communities were most targeted. On April 16, the Edmonton Police Commission directed police to investigate under-reporting of hate crimes and identify ways to remove barriers.
- The City of Edmonton is welcoming golfers back to municipal courses for the 2026 season. The Victoria Driving Range opens on April 17, operating 9am to 8pm, extending to 9pm starting May 1. Opening dates for the Riverside, Rundle, and Victoria golf courses will be announced soon. Beginning in June, Riverside Golf Course will undergo irrigation upgrades and infrastructure improvements, leading to one hole closure each weekday, with all greens available on weekends and holidays.
- Dozens of vehicles required repairs after fuelling up between April 14 and 15 at the Esso station at Ellerslie Road and Summerside Drive in south Edmonton. Drivers reported vehicles stalling or not starting due to gasoline contaminated with water. Michael Bauman of Mike the Mechanic said water contamination can cause damage that can cost more than $1,000 to repair. The station's pumps were shut down on April 15, and Service Alberta Minister Dale Nally encouraged affected drivers to contact the consumer protection unit for an investigation.
- The Edmonton Police Service has paused its investigation into the April 8, 2025, arson that destroyed the Plaza 34 strip mall at 34 Avenue and 92 Street in south Edmonton, citing a lack of information. A year later, no arrests have been made, frustrating business owners. The fire caused millions in damages, affecting 25 units. Police previously released an image of a person of interest.
- Several Alberta municipalities, including Edmonton, Red Deer, Lethbridge, Camrose, and Calgary, are urging the province to pause changes to disability benefits under the Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) program. Set for July 1, the changes will automatically transfer recipients to the Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP), reducing monthly payments by $200. Edmonton city council passed a motion in January seeking a pause, citing concerns about lack of consultation and effect on people who are unable to work. The province said it won't pause the change.
- Alberta's United Conservative Party government wants to create a special legislative committee to redraw provincial electoral boundaries, aiming to increase the legislature to 91 seats. This motion to create the committee rejects the boundaries proposed by the independent Alberta Electoral Boundaries Commission, which recommended 89 seats. Brandon Lunty, UCP MLA for Leduc-Beaumont, will chair the committee, which includes three UCP and two NDP members. The committee, which will not hold public hearings, will receive advice from an advisory panel and submit a report by Nov. 2. Elections Alberta expressed concern about the tight timeline before the fall 2027 election.
Headlines: April 17, 2026
By Mariam Ibrahim