A significant step toward strengthening relationships between municipalities and First Nations communities took place in Saskatoon this month. The Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association, known as SUMA, and the Office of the Treaty Commissioner have formalized a new partnership through the signing of a memorandum of understanding. The agreement was signed following a traditional Pipe Ceremony at the Office of the Treaty Commissioner, with Treaty Commissioner Dr. Kathy W

Strychnine — a name that carries a long legacy across the Prairies. For decades, it was the go-to pesticide for gopher control in Alberta. That is, until the federal government began phasing out its use on Richardson’s ground squirrels back in 2020 — and then banned it outright in 2024. The small animal at the centre of it all — the Richardson’s ground squirrel, known more commonly as the gopher — has been described as “a destructive force across the prairie provinces, threat

A three-way race is taking shape to determine the next president of Alberta Municipalities, following last month’s municipal elections. The organization is seeking a new full-time president after incumbent Tyler Gandam, Mayor of Wetaskiwin, was defeated in his bid for re-election. Three candidates have put their names forward to lead the provincial municipal association: Penhold Mayor Mike Yargeau, Grande Prairie Councillor Dylan Bressey, and Calgary Communities First Party C

In the Town of Canmore, Alberta, a new council term is underway — bringing together a mix of fresh faces and returning members around the table. On October 20th, residents headed to the polls, electing a blend of new councillors and familiar voices — all ready to help shape Canmore’s future. Among them is Councillor Wade Graham, re-elected by the citizens of Canmore to continue serving on Council. He now joins his colleagues and the Mayor in leading the town forward. We sat d

In the Municipal District of Taber, Alberta, a new term is beginning — and at the head of the table sits a familiar face. On October 20th, residents went to the polls, casting their votes for a mix of new councillors and returning voices — each ready to shape the MD’s next chapter. Just a week later, at the first meeting of the new council, members turned once again to a trusted leader. Tamara Miyanaga has been selected by her peers to continue as Reeve — guiding the MD of Ta

“Change is here.” Those were the words of Premier-Designate Currie Dixon, speaking to a packed crowd in Whitehorse as news broke that the Yukon Party would be returning to power—ending nine years of Liberal rule. Dixon will now lead a majority government, with 14 MLAs securing the Yukon Party’s place as the new governing force. The Yukon NDP, under Leader Kate White, will take on the role of Official Opposition, while the Liberals are left with just a single seat in the Legis

In the County of Grande Prairie, Alberta — a new chapter is unfolding, and it begins with a familiar name. On October 20th, residents headed to the polls, casting their votes for the people they believe will shape their community’s future — some new voices, and some well-known ones returning to the table. Just a week later, at the very first meeting of this new council, the group turned to a trusted hand to guide them forward. Former Deputy Reeve Amanda McDonald has been chos

The Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities has been keeping a full schedule this fall, leading up to their mid-term convention happening November 5th and 6th in Regina. From meetings in Ottawa with federal ministers and opposition members, to continued advocacy on the challenges facing rural Saskatchewan — including the ongoing trade tariffs between Canada and China — SARM has been active on multiple fronts. Behind the scenes, they’ve also been working to ensure the

Welcome to a special edition of Municipal Affairs. Last week, during our live Municipal Votes episode, we had the opportunity to speak with several retiring municipal leaders from across Alberta. These dedicated individuals have spent years serving their communities, guiding growth, and helping shape the places we call home. In this special episode, we’ve brought all of those heartfelt conversations together — featuring two mayors and a councillor — as they reflect on their t