Speaking Municipally

Taproot Edmonton

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.

  1. Maybe it is a municipal responsibility

    5d ago

    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 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 Edmonton Trivia with Taproot EdmontonCorrection: 15-minute parking update Instagram post from Coun. StevensonDay spaces Council allocates $925 thousand for winter day spacesOn the agenda: Budget adjustment, transit garage, community hallsEdmonton Police budget engagement results Edmonton Police Commission meeting — May 21, 2026Spring 2026 SCBA & Southeast Transit Garage Edmonton council votes to build bigger transit garage, despite it adding $66M to debtGarage capacity key to expanding transit service, advocate saysKoermann Block The Koermann Block: historic but dilapidated city property looks for buyers this springThis 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. 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 ★

    40 min
  2. Vroom, vroom, vroom went the trolley

    Jun 12

    Vroom, vroom, vroom went the trolley

    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 TourAgency calls 'All aboard!' for visitor economyExplore Edmonton with new trolley service, discovery passFCM Annual Conference in Edmonton Mayors seek federal funding for downtowns at Edmonton conferenceFederation of Canadian Municipalities launches new defence task forceETS takes over Valley Line from TransEd News Release: ETS to become long-term operator for Valley Line LRTTransEd replaced as Valley Line LRT operator as Edmonton ends 30-year contract earlyTransEd ousted as Valley Line Southeast operator, ETS to take overEdmonton Transit taking over operation of Valley Line2013: P3, or not P3? That's the question as we try to fund Edmonton's future LRTParking 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 EdmontonCurbside and Parking Program - Transforming Edmonton's Curbside and Parking ProgramThis 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. 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 ★

    43 min
  3. No way four way

    Jun 5

    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 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 SyvixayFooty ScranNews Release: Commonwealth Stadium welcomed more than 46,000 soccer fans despite heavy rainBridgegate update What could Edmonton's High Level Bridge replacement look like?May 25, 2026 - Infrastructure CommitteeEdmonton's Next Bridge Must Be Its Greatest: Let's Do It Right2021: Walterdale Bridge still cost Edmonton $155M, even after contractor paid damages for delaysConstruction impacts on businesses Construction forces closure of Edmonton's top Indian restaurantReddit thread on KhazanaFood Roundup: June 2, 2026August 2024: City council rejects grant program for Stony Plain Road businesses struggling through LRT workMaple traffic woes New 4-way stop removed after causing traffic nightmare in Maple Crest neighbourhoodTraffic snarl in southeast Edmonton leads city to remove newly installed 4-way stopCity of Edmonton installs, then removes 4-way stop sign in Maple Crest neighbourhoodMaple NSP (PDF)2022: Councillors decide not to expand road access to southeast Edmonton communityFeb. 03, 2026 - City Council - Public HearingThis 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. 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 ★

    40 min
  4. Stop trying to make a tree bylaw happen, it's not going to happen

    May 29

    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, 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 budgetsEdmonton wants to grow its tree canopy but some developers oppose bearing costEdmonton city councillors vote to expand tree planting securities for home buildersFor some residents across Toronto, this tree's fruit is anything but sweetStabilization centre Edmonton police 'stabilization centre' to hold people in crisisEdmonton police and Recovery Alberta to create facility for disorder, public intoxicationEPS 2025 Annual Report: Highlights Public Safety Progress, Innovation, and a New Approach to PolicingApril 2023: Alberta backs program that offers addictions supports to people in Edmonton police custody2023: New Integrated Care Centre OpenJasper Avenue New Vision Jasper Avenue New Vision107 Street Streetscaping: 99 Avenue to Jasper Avenue Design BookletYour turn: Jasper Ave, street labs, and biz censusWhyte Avenue BRT Bus Rapid Transit Planning: BRT Route B2Prioritize Whyte Ave: Spring 2026 BRT Engagement StanceThis 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! Want to reach the smartest, most-engaged people in the Edmonton region? Learn more about advertising with Taproot Edmonton! ★ Support this podcast ★

    41 min
  5. This week had Highs and Lows

    May 22

    This week had Highs and Lows

    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 bridgesCentral Area Bridge Renewal UpdateLet's Find Out Episode 58: The MacKinnon Ravine MysteryCoun. Erin Rutherford on unfunded service packages Coun. Erin RutherfordBudget Process and Financial Strategy2027-2030 Budget EngagementThis 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! Want to reach the smartest, most-engaged people in the Edmonton region? Learn more about advertising with Taproot Edmonton! ★ Support this podcast ★

    47 min
  6. Return to office! But not on your bike

    May 15

    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 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 EmployeesAndrew Knack's 2026 State of the City addressMayor rebuffs calls to shift city employees downtown full-timeRemote Work – Again?! | CSU 52Enabling job creation should top mayor's agenda, says cities expertJanuary 2026: No plans to end hybrid work for City of Edmonton staff, despite calls for return to officeEdmonton Real Estate Forum Edmonton Real Estate ForumCushman & Wakefield Edmonton Office Q1 2026 ReportBike lanes Alberta government takes aim at bike lanes, with legislation expected this fallCalgary 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 lanesCouncil motions On the agenda: User fees, buses, and BlatchfordCouncil discusses lower threshold for extreme weather responseSpray parks City of Edmonton spray parks and outdoor pools open with a splash for 2026 seasonThis 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. 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 ★

    47 min
  7. You have been engaged

    May 8

    You have been engaged

    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 concernCouncil approves 25-storey tower in Windsor Park neighbourhoodMay 5, 2026 - City Council - Public Hearing101 Street TPM Memo 101 Street Transit Priority Measures Memo PDFTransit Priority MeasuresBudget engagement 2027-2030 Budget EngagementTaproot Survey - Question Results - 2025 Edmonton Municipal ElectionCommunity Climate Adaptation Micro Grant Community Climate Adaptation Micro GrantNews Release: City supports neighbourhood resilience with new climate adaptation micro grantAward nominations Taproot Survey earns nod from National Newspaper AwardsTaproot Survey earns more award nominationsThis 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. 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 ★

    44 min
  8. Three feet repeat

    May 1

    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, 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 metreEdmonton city council passes height restrictions on infill buildsLewis Farms Recreation Centre Edmonton's Lewis Farms rec centre could cost nearly $32M more than original estimateOn the agenda: Lewis Farms, Army & Navy, advisory boardsMetro 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 Bylaw 21483 - To allow for the adaptive reuse of a building, Queen Alexandra, Strathcona, and Strathcona Junction - City Council Public Hearing - April 27, 2026Playoffs 'Not good enough': Playoff-fatigued Oilers overwhelmed by upstart DucksBuffalo fans sing 'O Canada' after microphone mishapThis 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. 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 ★

    38 min
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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.

Information

  • Creator
    Taproot Edmonton
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    366
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Taproot Publishing Inc.
  • Show Website
    Speaking Municipally

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