Impacts of Photo Radar Restrictions to CPS

   In December of 2024, the Province announced it would be cutting photo radar sites, reducing the total number by 70%.

   The Calgary Police Service uses photo radar across the city to enhance public safety, but they are also able to collect fine revenue from photo radar to fund their service. The total loss to the Calgary Police Service due to the cuts is $28M for the 2025 operating budget and each year after. 

   Police Chief Constable Neufeld stated that this hit comes at a time when demand for police services are at an all time high. I have heard first hand from residents since I was elected that traffic safety is a particularly high concern. 

   City Council agreed unanimously to fund the $28M gap from the city’s Fiscal Stability Reserve. This means there will be no increase to property taxes to address the gap. However, this shortfall needs to be factored into future Calgary budgets, as the Calgary Police Service is the largest single line item in the City’s budget.

   You can read an article detailing the situation here. 

Branching Out Program

   Trees are essential to the quality of life in Calgary. They provide a myriad of environmental benefits. They also contribute to positive mental wellbeing and help us connect to our communities. 

   Right now, Calgary’s tree canopy coverage is at 8.25%, this includes trees planted on both public and private property. The City is working to grow and expand our tree canopy coverage to 16%. One way the City is working grow the canopy is by providing trees to Calgarians at no cost through the Branching Out Program. 

  5000 trees will be given away on a first come, first served basis. Registration for Ward 3 residents will fall under the NE and NW quadrants: 

• NE Calgary registration opens April 21 at 10AM
• NW Calgary registration opens April 28 at 10AM.     

   Check out the link here for the full details on the program. 

Rain Barrel Rebate

   The City is partnering with Green Calgary to offer a $50 rebate on up to two rain barrels to each Calgarian. 

   Using a rain barrel is a great way conserve water, reduce the amount of rainwater runoff entering the stormwater system and flowing into our creeks and rivers, and save money on your water bill. 

   As of April 1st, you can purchase rain barrels from a local vendor or directly from Green Calgary and submit your receipt for a rebate. Read the full details here. 

Community News and Events

• Community Clean-up events are an opportunity for Calgarians to dispose of items that do not fit in their waste and recycling carts. Clean-Ups are ongoing until June 29th - find one near you here.                          -
• The Berkshire Church is having an Easter egg hunt at 9:30AM on April 20th prior to their service. All are welcome to attend and stay for the service.
• Hidden Valley Community Association is preparing for a busy month with their Easter egg hunt on April 20th. View the full details and their events calendar here.
• Sandstone MacEwan CA has started their yoga classes again - free for members or $10 for non-members. Calendar and sign up details here.