Edmonton taxpayers paid full price for the Walterdale Bridge, despite fines that were levied against the contractor following major delays in the project. 

"I will miss it dearly. It's been the privilege of my life to sit on city council."

The city continues to have ongoing discussions with the province regarding pandemic response, including vaccine rollout.

After eight Alberta MLAs and UCP staff were confirmed to have travelled over the holidays, Edmonton's mayor issued a statement, stressing the pandemic must be taken seriously.

"I want our builders and our innovators have a role to play in this energy transition that's happening in the world around us," Don Iveson said.

In a 12-1 vote, Edmonton councillors passed the 2021 budget which, for the first time in 24 years, won't include a tax increase.

All city recreation facilities currently open to the public will close after the last reserved time slot on Saturday and remain closed for at least 28 days.

Mayors Don Iveson and Naheed Nenshi said both cities are considering new restrictions to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus, with or without the province.

The 19 new deaths were the second highest that have been reported in one day since the pandemic began and have brought the provincial fatality number to 615.

Edmonton Mayor Don Iveson has announced he will not seek re-election next year.