EDMONTON – It’s been a busy year in Edmonton with a number of issues making headlines over the last 12 months.
In his year-end interview with Global News, mayor Don Iveson spoke at length about several topics from the impact on your bottom line, to how technology is changing the way some commuters get around.
Property Tax Debate:
Earlier this month, city council approved a 5.7 per cent property tax increase — the largest in the last several years. The mayor offers his perspective on the increase.
City Charter:
Both the mayors of Edmonton and Calgary are pushing for a new relationship with the province and they hope to get that through a city charter. In the following excerpt, mayor Don Iveson explains what a charter could mean when it comes to future property tax increases.
The Growing Arena District:
It’s construction activity at an unprecedented pace. Not only is Rogers Place under construction, but several large towers have also been announced. All of this follows the contentious arena debate that, at times, divided the city. The mayor offers his thoughts on what’s happening now.
Economic Uncertainty:
The price of oil continues to cause concern. Many are wondering what impact it will have on Edmonton’s economy, which has been one of the strongest in the country in recent years.
LRTing to City Hall:
The mayor is a big advocate of LRT. You may remember the #saddoniveson hashtag from earlier this year when funding for expansion of the system was not specifically mentioned in the budget. Funding has been secured. And, as we learning, the mayor, like thousands of others, uses the LRT often.
Getting around Edmonton:
Another way people are looking to get around is through new app-based ride-sharing programs. But it hasn’t been a smooth ride. The debate over what to do in Edmonton will start very quickly in the new year.
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