Municipal Affairs

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From the bustling streets of Vancouver to the serene coastlines of the Maritimes, and all the way up north to the breathtaking landscapes of the Arctic, we're embarking on an expedition that will connect us, inform us, and empower us. This isn't just another show; it's your portal into the pulse of your local community and every community across our vast and diverse country.

  1. Mayors Sound Off On Police Funding Model

    8H AGO

    Mayors Sound Off On Police Funding Model

    Across Alberta, a growing number of mayors and councillors are sounding the alarm. They say a major shift in how policing is funded could dramatically reshape local budgets—and ultimately, what residents pay in property taxes. Last month, the Government of Alberta introduced a recalculation to its police funding model. On paper, it’s a formula change. But on the ground, municipal leaders say it’s something far more serious. Some communities are now facing increases of up to 320 percent in their policing costs over the next five years. For many smaller and rural municipalities, policing is already one of their largest expenses. These new costs could force councils into difficult decisions—raising taxes, cutting services, or both. And residents may soon feel the impact in their monthly bills. Tonight, we speak directly with two leaders navigating this uncertainty in real time. Tara Elwood, mayor of Alberta Beach, and Bridgitte Coninx, mayor of Onoway. They’ll share how these funding changes are affecting their communities, the strain on their municipal budgets, and the tough choices they may soon have to make. Because beyond the numbers and formulas, this is about the future of small-town Alberta—and who ultimately pays the price. This is Municipal Affairs. ------ Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-show Join The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show  ------ Listen To The Show:  Apple: https://apple.co/41p5I2I Spotify: https://bit.ly/3tkvb0E  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/crossborderinterviewswithchrisbrown ------ Follow Us On Social Media:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossborderpodcast/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/crossbordernetwork.bsky.social  Threads: https://www.threads.net/@crossborderpodcast  Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/CrossBorderInterviews/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crossborderinterviews/  Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/ Municipal Affairs is Part of The Cross Border Network ©2026

    47 min
  2. SARM Calls for Federal Rural Investment

    5D AGO

    SARM Calls for Federal Rural Investment

    Saskatchewan is home to 27 of Canada’s 34 critical minerals. We hold the world’s largest deposits of potash and some of the highest-grade uranium anywhere on the planet. From fertilizer that feeds global agriculture to uranium that fuels clean nuclear power, this province plays an outsized role in Canada’s clean growth economy — and much of that activity happens in rural communities. But as the country moves toward a lower-carbon future, questions are being raised about how federal policies will affect provinces like ours. Under the current Clean Electricity Regulations, electricity costs in Saskatchewan are projected to double by 2035.  For energy-intensive sectors — including the province’s $5.5-billion fertilizer industry, as well as mining and mineral processing — affordability and reliability aren’t just concerns; they’re essential to staying competitive. The Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities is calling on Ottawa to recognize the realities facing rural industries and to ensure that the transition to cleaner energy doesn’t come at the expense of economic sustainability.  They’re advocating for a balanced, innovation-driven approach — one that supports growth, strengthens infrastructure, and keeps rural Saskatchewan at the forefront of responsible resource development. Joining us today to discuss this is Bill Huber, President of the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities.  We’ll talk about critical minerals, energy policy, rural competitiveness, and what Saskatchewan needs from the federal government to continue driving both provincial and national prosperity. ------ This edition of Municipal Affairs was sponsored by: https://www.schoolofpublicpolicy.sk.ca/ ------ Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-show Join The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show  ------ Listen To The Show:  Apple: https://apple.co/41p5I2I Spotify: https://bit.ly/3tkvb0E  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/crossborderinterviewswithchrisbrown ------ Follow Us On Social Media:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossborderpodcast/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/crossbordernetwork.bsky.social  Threads: https://www.threads.net/@crossborderpodcast  Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/CrossBorderInterviews/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crossborderinterviews/  Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/ Municipal Affairs is Part of The Cross Border Network ©2026

    17 min
  3. SARM Sounds Off On Indian Head Closure

    5D AGO

    SARM Sounds Off On Indian Head Closure

    A decision out of Ottawa is sending shockwaves across rural Saskatchewan. The federal government has confirmed that Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada will close its satellite research farms in Scott and Indian Head — part of broader budget reductions that have already seen roughly 665 positions cut nationwide and nearly 1,050 employees receive notices in January. But for Saskatchewan, this is about more than staffing numbers. The Indian Head Research Farm was among the first five federal research farms established in 1887 — a cornerstone of agricultural innovation for nearly 140 years. The Scott Research Farm, founded in 1906, was part of a national wave of experimental stations that helped shape modern prairie farming. Agricultural economists warn the closures could slow the development of higher-yielding crop varieties, weaken long-standing research partnerships, and cost the province tens of millions of dollars in future agricultural gains.  And Saskatchewan isn’t alone — satellite farms in Nappan, Nova Scotia, and Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, along with major research and development centres in Guelph, Quebec City, and Lacombe, Alberta, are also slated to shut their doors. So what does this mean for producers, municipalities, and the future of innovation in rural Saskatchewan? We spoke with SARM President Bill Huber about the impact of these closures — and what comes next for the communities that have relied on these research hubs for generations. ------ This edition of Municipal Affairs was sponsored by: https://www.schoolofpublicpolicy.sk.ca/ ------ Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-show Join The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show  ------ Listen To The Show:  Apple: https://apple.co/41p5I2I Spotify: https://bit.ly/3tkvb0E  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/crossborderinterviewswithchrisbrown ------ Follow Us On Social Media:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossborderpodcast/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/crossbordernetwork.bsky.social  Threads: https://www.threads.net/@crossborderpodcast  Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/CrossBorderInterviews/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crossborderinterviews/  Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/ Municipal Affairs is Part of The Cross Border Network ©2026

    22 min
  4. SMR Canada Nuclear Summit

    FEB 18

    SMR Canada Nuclear Summit

    Across Canada, communities are facing a defining challenge of our time: how to deliver reliable, affordable energy while meeting ambitious climate goals and strengthening local economies. As we move toward a net-zero future, the conversation is no longer just about reducing emissions—it’s about building resilient infrastructure, supporting industry, and creating meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities. Nuclear energy is emerging as a powerful part of that conversation. Beyond its role in supplying clean, dependable electricity, nuclear technology—particularly Small Modular Reactors—has the potential to support heavy industry, from oil sands to manufacturing and chemicals, while opening new opportunities for economic reconciliation with First Nations across the country. Small Modular Reactors are now being evaluated as a critical solution to meet baseload and firming power needs, especially in regions where reliability and scale matter most. That’s where the SMR Nuclear Canada Summit comes in. Now in its third year, the Summit brings together entrepreneurs, utilities, government leaders, Indigenous partners, and industry experts to explore how Alberta, Saskatchewan, and British Columbia could become pioneers in Western Canada’s nuclear future. From site development and safety to community engagement, workforce development, and economic impact, the conversations happening there are shaping what responsible nuclear growth could look like in the decades ahead. This year’s Summit takes place March 3rd and 4th at the Westin Hotel in Calgary, with a program curated by the SMR Nuclear Canada Advisory Board and a lineup of voices from across the country. Today on Municipal Affairs, we’re joined by Wes Scott from the SMR Nuclear Canada Summit to explore why this event matters—and why, for community leaders and energy professionals alike, it should be on the must-attend list for 2026. ------ Learn More About The Summit:  https://www.smrcanada.com/ ------ Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-show Join The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show  ------ Listen To The Show:  Apple: https://apple.co/41p5I2I Spotify: https://bit.ly/3tkvb0E  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/crossborderinterviewswithchrisbrown ------ Follow Us On Social Media:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossborderpodcast/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/crossbordernetwork.bsky.social  Threads: https://www.threads.net/@crossborderpodcast  Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/CrossBorderInterviews/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crossborderinterviews/  Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/ Municipal Affairs is Part of The Cross Border Network ©2026

    29 min
  5. Conservative Party of BC Leadership Candidate Sheldon Clare

    FEB 18

    Conservative Party of BC Leadership Candidate Sheldon Clare

    On May 30th, 2026, members of the Conservative Party of British Columbia will choose a new party leader. Leadership contests are not only about party politics—they are also about ideas, priorities, and competing visions for the future of the province. In the weeks leading up to the vote, candidates are outlining their plans for British Columbia, including how they see the role of municipalities and regional districts across the province. Local governments play a central role in delivering services, managing growth, and responding to community needs, so understanding how provincial political leaders view municipal issues is an important part of the broader conversation. Today on Municipal Affairs, we’re joined by Sheldon Clare, MLA for Prince George-North Cariboo and a candidate in the Conservative Party of British Columbia leadership race. Before entering provincial politics, Sheldon served for nearly three decades as a reserve officer in the Canadian Armed Forces, mentoring cadets and advocating for stronger local defense capabilities. He later became president and CEO of Canada’s National Firearms Association, representing responsible firearms owners and participating in international policy discussions. He was first elected as an MLA in 2024. We’ll discuss his background, his vision for British Columbia, and how municipalities fit into that vision as the leadership race continues. ------ Learn More About Bruce's Campaign:  Website: https://www.sheldonclarebc.ca/ Register to Vote: https://conservativebc.ca/membership/  ------ Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-show Join The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show  ------ Listen To The Show: Apple: https://apple.co/41p5I2I Spotify: https://bit.ly/3tkvb0E  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/crossborderinterviewswithchrisbrown ------ Follow Us On Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossborderpodcast/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/crossbordernetwork.bsky.social  Threads: https://www.threads.net/@crossborderpodcast  Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/CrossBorderInterviews/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crossborderinterviews/  Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/ Municipal Affairs is Part of The Cross Border Network ©2026

    35 min
  6. Alberta NDP Shadow Minister of Municipal Affairs Rob Miyashiro

    FEB 13

    Alberta NDP Shadow Minister of Municipal Affairs Rob Miyashiro

    With less than a month remaining before the Alberta Legislature reconvenes, attention is turning once again to the evolving relationship between the provincial government and municipalities. Across Alberta, municipal leaders in communities of all sizes are navigating complex challenges—from infrastructure funding and growth pressures to policy changes affecting local planning and development. Issues such as offsite levies, long-term infrastructure priorities, and fiscal sustainability continue to shape discussions between municipalities and the province. To better understand what municipal leaders are experiencing on the ground, and how these issues may be addressed in the upcoming legislative session, we’re speaking with Rob Miyashiro, the Alberta NDP’s municipal affairs critic and MLA for Lethbridge West. We’ll discuss the conversations he’s been having with municipal leaders across the province, the key challenges facing municipalities today, and the areas of focus for the Alberta NDP as the spring sitting of the Legislature approaches. ------ Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-show Join The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show  ------ Listen To The Show: Apple: https://apple.co/41p5I2I Spotify: https://bit.ly/3tkvb0E  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/crossborderinterviewswithchrisbrown ------ Follow Us On Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossborderpodcast/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/crossbordernetwork.bsky.social  Threads: https://www.threads.net/@crossborderpodcast  Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/CrossBorderInterviews/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crossborderinterviews/  Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/ Municipal Affairs is Part of The Cross Border Network ©2026

    31 min
  7. Conservative Party of BC Leadership Candidate Bruce Banman

    FEB 11

    Conservative Party of BC Leadership Candidate Bruce Banman

    On May 30th, 2026, members of the Conservative Party of British Columbia will choose a new party leader. Leadership contests are not only about party politics—they are also about ideas, priorities, and competing visions for the future of the province. In the weeks leading up to the vote, candidates are outlining their plans for British Columbia, including how they see the role of municipalities and regional districts across the province. Local governments play a central role in delivering services, managing growth, and responding to community needs, so understanding how provincial political leaders view municipal issues is an important part of the broader conversation. Today on Municipal Affairs, we’re joined by Bruce Banman, MLA for Abbotsford South and a candidate in the Conservative Party of British Columbia leadership race. Before entering provincial politics, Bruce Banman served as a councillor and mayor in Abbotsford. He was first elected to the Legislative Assembly in 2020 and re-elected in 2024. We’ll discuss his background, his vision for British Columbia, and how municipalities fit into that vision as the leadership race continues.------Learn More About Bruce's Campaign:  Website: https://banmanforbc.ca/ Register to Vote: https://banmanforbc.ca/register/------ Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-show Join The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show  ------ Listen To The Show: Apple: https://apple.co/41p5I2I Spotify: https://bit.ly/3tkvb0E  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/crossborderinterviewswithchrisbrown ------ Follow Us On Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossborderpodcast/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/crossbordernetwork.bsky.social  Threads: https://www.threads.net/@crossborderpodcast  Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/CrossBorderInterviews/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crossborderinterviews/  Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/ Municipal Affairs is Part of The Cross Border Network ©2026

    35 min
  8. The Human Infrastructure

    FEB 11

    The Human Infrastructure

    Leading a municipality today isn’t just about budgets, bylaws, and infrastructure—it’s about people. In the past decade alone, the role of local leaders has transformed dramatically. The pace of social media, the complexity of intergovernmental relationships, and the growing expectations of communities have created a new reality for municipal councils and administrators. The mental load on local leaders has never been heavier, and the need for strong communication, collaboration, and personal resilience has never been greater. That’s where the Human Infrastructure Symposium comes in. This new initiative is focused on strengthening the “common ground” that holds our region together. By breaking down silos between municipalities, encouraging mutual support, and prioritizing mental health and effective communication, the symposium aims to equip municipal leaders with the tools they need to build healthy, connected, and high-performing communities. It’s a shift in focus—from spreadsheets and policy documents to the human side of governance. Whether you’re newly elected or a seasoned municipal leader, the symposium promises a day of learning, insight, and meaningful connection with peers who are navigating the same challenges. To explore what the Human Infrastructure Symposium is all about—and why it matters now more than ever—we’re joined today by Tyler Gandam.------Purchase Your Tickets Today: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-human-infrastructure-tickets-1980120853777 ------ Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-show Join The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show  ------ Listen To The Show: Apple: https://apple.co/41p5I2I Spotify: https://bit.ly/3tkvb0E  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/crossborderinterviewswithchrisbrown ------ Follow Us On Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossborderpodcast/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/crossbordernetwork.bsky.social  Threads: https://www.threads.net/@crossborderpodcast  Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/CrossBorderInterviews/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crossborderinterviews/  Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/ Municipal Affairs is Part of The Cross Border Network ©2026

    32 min
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From the bustling streets of Vancouver to the serene coastlines of the Maritimes, and all the way up north to the breathtaking landscapes of the Arctic, we're embarking on an expedition that will connect us, inform us, and empower us. This isn't just another show; it's your portal into the pulse of your local community and every community across our vast and diverse country.

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