Earlier this week I had a chance to reconnect with a neighbour, Melanie (Video Link), who for the past five years has been struggling with a problem property next door to her, which has finally now been demolished.
In 2022, my colleague, Councillor Ashley Salvador (Ward Metis), moved a motion to have the city develop a plan to tackle the issue of problem properties. The motion passed and we are already seeing results such as a reduction in structure fires.
Learn more: https://www.edmonton.ca/residential_neighbourhoods/problem-properties-of-edmonton
I want to be clear, these properties are not merely unsightly, poorly kept, or party houses. These are abandoned, vacant, or derelict homes that pose an enormous safety risk to the community, especially due to fire. All properties must maintain minimum property standards as set out in the Community Standards bylaw and Municipal Government Act.
The demolition of a privately owned property is a significant undertaking and legal process that is not taken lightly by the City. Only if the property is assessed as unsafe structurally and the legislative authority to proceed is present, would the demolition process be initiated.
Report problem properties if you are aware of them, and talk to your neighbours and friends to make sure they know about this program and that they can report too.
Because City Bylaw operate on a complaints-based system, and officers rarely have time for proactive policing, it is critical that you are the eyes and ears of your neighbourhood. If something seems off, say something. If you see a bylaw issue, please use 311 or contact my office and please make sure your complaints are documented. Pictures especially (which you can upload using the 311 app) with specific details are very helpful and help save time.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vw_wbWf2i4I
The Alberta Government is attacking our freedom to read. Help fight for your freedom and tell Premier Smith that now more than ever we need more freedom to read, not less. You can't be strong and free without the freedom to read.
Here is my statement in support.
As the price of gas skyrockets, this newsletter is about how I am pushing to reduce traffic and congestion while making public transit better. Read on how you can help...
But first... Have you seen this fantastic video from Translink? While they might look ‘empty’ at times, bus lanes can move more people than regular traffic lanes, creating a more efficient and sustainable transportation network.
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Hawrelak park soft reopening is tomorrow - Friday March 13th! Grab your family and go down for a walk in our central park. The official welcome party and grand opening will be May 30th. (Learn more)
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Expect to see more infill for sale, not rent.
I've heard from a number of builders recently that they are moving away from the small scale rental and moving towards small scale units built for sale as individual units.
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