May 30, 2025 - Volume 04
The Rural Alberta Report
Local News
County of Stettler Helps Plant Roots for Byemoor’s Centennial
The County of Stettler was honoured to take part in celebrating the Byemoor Centennial and recently helped launch the festivities with a special event at Byemoor School on May 23.
Les Stulberg, Councillor for the Byemoor-Endiang Ward, joined students on the school grounds to kick off the County’s “100 Trees for 100 Years” initiative.
Councillor Stulberg planted the inaugural tree, with additional trees provided for students and staff to plant.
The County is excited to continue celebrating Byemoor’s 100th anniversary alongside with its own 70th anniversary milestone. Everyone is invited to join the festivities on Saturday, June 7, 2025, in Byemoor—a full day of events, memories and community fun is planned.
Byemoor-Endiang Ward Councillor Les Stulberg and students of the Byemoor School plant a tree for the County’s initiative 100 trees for 100 years.
Two of the six dogs in Hanna looking for a forever home.
Town of Hanna looking to re-home six dogs
Stu Salkeld
The Town of Hanna council heard that staff are looking to re-home six dogs from a situation that’s currently in violation of the municipal bylaw. The discussion was held at the May 28 information meeting of
council.
Readers should note information meetings are essentially “discussion only” meetings and any resolutions to be passed are usually held for the next regular council meeting.
Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Matthew Norburn, during his regular report to council, described issues the town is facing regarding
problem canines. “We’re constantly dealing with the dogs,” said Norburn to council. “It’s a daily thing.”
In his written report Norburn stated that the Town of Hanna had responded to multiple resident complaints about barking dogs and the municipality had been talking to Saving Grace Animal Rescue to help out.
During discussion it was stated a local resident currently has or had eight dogs on her property, which violates the Town of Hanna's animal control bylaw by quite a few canines. Norburn stated he was hoping
Saving Grace would be coming soon to take some or all of the extra dogs, but that hasn’t happened.
In fact, the charity called back to say they couldn’t come because their facility is full and they can’t take any more dogs.
Norburn clarified there are six dogs that need to be re-homed and at this point he doesn’t know how that will be done.
The CAO stated that it appears the dog owner wants to keep two dogs and let the remaining six be adopted.
Coun. Sandra Murphy observed that the dog owner in question is violating the town’s bylaw and Murphy didn’t think the dog owner's input should be a primary factor. Murphy stated that she also felt that tickets or charges could be in order.
Mayor Danny Povaschuk suggested that if charges such as animal cruelty are considered an investigator such as the SPCA should be involved, not the town.
Coun. Murphy asked why the Town of Hanna has an animal control bylaw if the rules aren’t enforced.
The CAO responded that the rules can be enforced by a peace officer who may write a ticket or lay a charge, but that the bylaw can also be seen as a set of expectations that the community has for behaviour that meets community standards.
Coun. Sandra Beaudoin asked if there was a way to get the information out to the public that these dogs are available; Norburn stated that has been attempted through animal rescue charities but it appears there is little to no interest in these dogs.
He described them as blue heeler cross dogs between six and 11 months in age, and all have been described as friendly.
Coun. Angie Warwick noted that blue heeler dogs are usually thought of as good farm or working dogs.
Those interested in adopting one or more of the dogs should contact the Town of Hanna at 403-854-4433.
Councillors accepted Norburn’s report as information.
Coronation Town Council Passes 2025 Budget with no increase to Mill Rate
Cheryl Bowman
Coronation Town council approved the 2024 Audited Financial Statements during its regular meeting on May 26.
Peter Stone, representing Ascend LLP, presented the audit and reviewed the town’s financial results for the year. Council members had the opportunity to ask questions and discuss the municipality’s financial position. The statements were accepted and will be submitted to Municipal Affairs, as required under Section 278 of the Municipal Government Act.
Council also approved the 2025 municipal budget, which was balanced with projected revenues and expenses of $4,969,329.76. The mill rate will remain at 14.0840, meaning no tax increase for property owners.
According to administration, property assessments grew by 4.19 per cent for residential and 4.21 per cent for non-commercial parcels.
While this provided additional revenue, rising costs for insurance, utilities, and required contributions to services such as the Alberta School Foundation Fund and East Central Ambulance limited the overall benefit.
The budget includes $370,489 in funding through the Local Government Fiscal Framework (LGFF), with $129,748 allocated to operating costs. The town does not expect to draw from its restricted surplus accounts this year. Council also heard that outstanding tax arrears dropped from $835,690.30 to $612,261.28.
Capital planning in 2025 includes early work on a new swimming pool, sewer relining, and arena upgrades. The town is also looking into ways to improve broadband access and expand affordable housing.
Although the budget passed without a tax increase, Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Quinton Wintfley suggested the council consider a small mill rate increase next year. A 0.05 per cent rise could add around $4,000 in revenue, helping offset a potential drop in provincial funding through LGFF in 2026.
Mayor Ron Checkel said the town should wait and see what next year’s property assessments look like. Wintfley agreed the higher assessments this year helped avoid a tax increase.
“The auditors said the numbers were good, so that is all we can go by,” said Checkel.
“I think we have done a very good job,” added Deputy Mayor Brett Alderice.
Council also passed the third and final reading of Bylaw No. 2025-707, which increases the minimum municipal property tax from $700 to $750 per property starting in 2025. The new rate applies to 185 properties and is expected to bring in $138,750 in total. Of that, $3,000 will go to the golf course budget and $4,158.10 to Communities in Bloom. Administration recommended the council continue reviewing the minimum tax rate each year, with a possible future increase to $800.
In other business, the council updated the town’s signing authority following changes in administration. With Wintfley stepping down, Interim CAO Delayne Golby was appointed as the new signing authority. In Golby’s absence, Utility and Development Clerk Candice Hawthorne will take on the role.
Town of Bashaw council passes 2025 operating budget
Stu Salkeld
The Town of Bashaw council passed their 2025 operating budget with a lower than expected tax increase. The resolutions were passed at the May 21 regular meeting of council.
Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Theresa Fuller presented councillors with an updated version of the proposed 2025 operating budget; at their May 7 council meeting councillors essentially went through the draft budget line by line.
However, it was noted by council the Hwy. #12/21 Water Commission planned to send the town a roughly $17,000 “true up.” Such an act is simply a rebate on prepaid water that was never used.
Fuller stated the “true up” was unexpected, so she wanted to reexamine the draft budget with the $17,000 windfall included.
Readers should note the water commission asks member municipalities to estimate how much water they’ll use for the coming year but if at the end of the year that amount of water isn’t reached the members get a refund.
The CAO’s revised 2025 operating budget reflected this revenue. Fuller stated in her memo to council the overall tax increase would therefore be 2.66 per cent, the budget would include a $17,636.98 “true up” from the water commission and council training sessions would be included while computer software updates for the town office would probably cost about $1,041 more than expected.
Fuller stated the overall tax increase is less than a previous version of the budget. Coun. Cindy Orom noted that 2.66 per cent is the lowest increase she has seen on her time on council.
Mayor Rob McDonald thanked Bashaw’s staff for doing a great job on 2025’s budget.
Coun. Kyle McIntosh added that he felt Bashaws increases have been reasonable compared to other municipalities that propose tax increase of six per cent or higher.
Councillors unanimously approved the 2025 operating budget, with the council also approving all readings of the 2025 tax rate bylaw as well.
Fuller observed with a possible Canada Post mail workers strike looming Bashaw staff wanted to get tax notices printed and in the mail as soon as possible.
Those interested in adopting one or more of the dogs should contact the Town of Hanna at 403-854-4433.
Let’s All Celebrate!
🎉 Seniors’ Week
June 2–8, 2025 🎉
Take a look around your community for local events, gatherings, and celebrations in honour of those who helped build the country we live in today.
Final Farewell: Always Amish Furniture Hosts Sale and Wagon Race Showdown
Final Sale at Always Amish Furniture Draws a Crowd
Always Amish Furniture is holding its final sale this weekend in partnership with Stettler Tools & Hardware. The two-day event runs Friday, May 30, and Saturday, May 31, with Friday offering up free sandwiches, chips, and homemade cinnamon buns.
A highlight of the day was a spirited wagon race at high noon, where Karlin Hollinger and Jared Derstine went head-to-head. Jared surged ahead to take the win.
The event drew a strong turnout, with visitors enjoying the sunshine, delicious food, and unbeatable deals.
We are sad to see them go!
Jared Derstine (front) and Karlin Hollinger race wagons May 30 at Always Amish Furniture to the delight of the crowd. C. Bowman
County of Stettler says fire commission better for members
Stu Salkeld
The County of Stettler announced it is leaving the regional fire agreement it has with the Town of Stettler and other communities and
is instead forming a fire commission. The County of Stettler says this approach means everyone gets a seat at the table.
County of Stettler Reeve Larry Clarke confirmed the county’s May 21 announcement that it would leave the regional fire services agreement it has with the Town of Stettler and other communities.
In a phone call May 29 Clarke reiterated the county “...did finally decide to go to a commission,” rather than the current regional model. Over the past two years the town, county and other communities have
worked within a revised and renewed regional framework that included a town fire chief, a county fire chief and a regional manager.
Clarke stated this revised system was well-received, particularly by firefighters at the various fire halls. The County of Stettler
surveyed firefighters and found they liked the fire manager approach as it tended to keep politics out of the fire departments.
“We’re not holding anything against the town but we can’t agree on it,” said Clarke.
The reeve stated he’s been pushing the idea of a fire commission for years, citing examples like the water commission and the regional library network as ways for large areas to work together equally and efficiently. Clarke pointed out the commission would include a board
of directors who could be elected officials, members at large or a combination of both.
The commission's budget would still need to be approved by individual councils, but the reeve pointed out Parkland Regional Library System does this every year with very few issues.
Clarke pointed out all other members of the regional fire agreement have been invited to join the new commission, including the Town of Stettler, Village of Big Valley and summer villages.
Town of Stettler Mayor Sean Nolls confirmed the county’s decision, adding that there is a process in place for such a change. Nolls
stated in a May 30 phone interview the regional agreement signed a couple of years ago includes rules for handling a member community which wishes to leave the agreement.
Nolls noted there is a three year period of negotiation included that involves a transitional committee but it’s still early in the process. “At this time we’re still talking,” said Nolls.
Nolls stated the Town of Stettler wants to find a way forward in this situation that works for all parties involved, and observed that, for example, the way fires in town are fought can be quite different than what rural or farmland firefighting requires.
The mayor reassured the public by noting all mutual aid agreements will remain in place and that firefighting services should remain
virtually unchanged. “Everything should look exactly the same,” said the mayor.
Reeve Clarke stated taxpayers shouldn’t feel anxiety over a commission idea as the County of Stettler already owns a lot of equipment and a lot of property. As well, Clarke agreed mutual aid agreements will remain in place.
However, he pointed out before a commission is up and running some
steps remain: formal letters have to be sent to the regional members and a transition committee needs to be formed to examine and catalogue assets to decide where they should go.
Clarke added that a commission will best serve individual areas as they’ll have their own seats at the table.
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Hanna town council hears RCMP responds to mental health, domestic violence calls
Downtown - Hanna, Alberta C. Bowman
Stu Salkeld
The Town of Hanna council heard that the local RCMP detachment is responding to more mental health-related calls and domestic violence issues. The report was made at the May 28 information meeting of
council.
Readers should note information meetings are not full council meetings but rather are for reports and presentations only. Any resolutions are usually held until the next regular council meeting.
Councillors heard the regular quarterly report of Sgt. Robert Welsman, who presented councillors with an in-depth catalogue of work the Hanna RCMP detachment has done over the past three months.
Welsman observed that the detachment has responded to an increased number of Mental Health Act-related calls over the past quarter and stretching back over the past year. Welsman added this seems to be an
increasing trend.
As councillors examined the RCMP stats Welsman also noted that RCMP officers respond to domestic complaints quite often, including some that involve violence.
Councillors observed that Hanna RCMP spend a lot of time handling traffic issues, including collisions with the sergeant adding that
Hanna RCMP are also responding to more bylaw-related complaints. One of the major ones is a loose dog running at large; Welsman stated that RCMP are often asked how they enforce municipal bylaws.
Welsman stated that Hanna RCMP provide first response to a dog running at large complaint, including providing assistance in securing the loose dog and addressing any safety issues the loose dog may pose
especially if a bylaw officer is unavailable. Also, RCMP can help collect evidence in these instances for further investigation.
The RCMP commander noted that the local detachment has no room or facilities for housing delinquent dogs and a housing facility may be something the Town of Hanna might want to look into.
The sergeant noted the Hanna detachment has also been busy with community engagement, including a recently held bike rodeo that he described as very successful, and beginning work on 2025 policing
priorities such as offender management. Welsman stated this involves checking on offenders within the community who are under court-ordered conditions.
Traffic enforcement, noted Welsman, is another major 2025 priority which Hanna RCMP are focusing on with the help of Alberta government and peace officers.
Mayor Danny Povaschuk noted that assaults appear to be up in number lately and wondered why. Welsman responded that some of those are part of domestic violence investigations and RCMP usually don’t issue press releases on those incidents.
Mayor Povaschuk then asked if traffic incidents appear to have dropped, which Welsman responded that they have but warned summer is looming and such incidents will probably climb in number.
Coun. Sandra Beaudoin asked if offences in the quarterly report involve both locals and out-of-towners. Welsman confirmed yes, any
incidents Hanna RCMP handle are included in the report regardless of where the offender comes from.
The sergeant noted that things like curfew checks and sobriety conditions tend to involve local residents, but they could in theory involve a visitor if local RCMP are given notification beforehand.
The sergeant also described an issue that’s been cropping up with 911 calls. Apparently after heavy precipitation the 911 system will
sometimes get garbled or unidentifiable calls from the outlying areas. He added that the problem has been discussed with service providers.
Mayor Povaschuk stated that police visibility in the community is appreciated and enjoyed, especially by youth who seem to really enjoy
getting to know police officers.
Councillors unanimously accepted Welsman’s report for information.
Alberta News
Alberta RCMP encourages families to discuss personal safety with children
Source: Unsplash
Media Release - Alberta RCMP
With the arrival of warmer weather, children in Alberta are spending more time outdoors, prompting the Alberta RCMP to encourage parents and guardians to talk to their kids about personal safety. These conversations help build children’s confidence in recognizing unsafe situations and making informed choices. Alberta RCMP emphasizes the importance of teaching children to trust their instincts and seek help when something feels wrong.
Key safety tips shared by the RCMP include reminding kids never to go anywhere with strangers, even if the person seems friendly or asks for help. Children should be empowered to say no to any request that makes them uncomfortable and be encouraged to talk to a trusted adult right away if they feel uneasy. Parents are also advised to teach their children to always check in before going anywhere or accepting anything from someone they don’t know.
To reinforce safety, families can implement practical tools such as a “family password” for unexpected pick-ups. Identifying safe adults like teachers or neighbors, encouraging kids to stick with friends or siblings while outside, and reviewing common walking or biking routes are also recommended. If a child has a phone, parents should utilize location-sharing features like Apple Family Sharing or Google Family Link and ensure children know how to call emergency services, provide personal information, and describe their location.
The RCMP also suggests practicing different scenarios with children through “what would you do if…” conversations to better prepare them for unexpected situations. These proactive steps aim to help children enjoy their time outdoors while staying aware and safe.
For ongoing safety updates and information, families are encouraged to follow Alberta RCMP on social media platforms: Facebook @RCMPinAlberta
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Blazes Near Swan Hills Halt Energy Operations, Prompt Emergency Response
KCJ Media Group Ltd.
Wildfires in northern Alberta have forced the evacuation of Swan Hills and disrupted oil and gas operations in the region.
A blaze approximately 1,600 hectares in size is burning out of control about 7 kilometers north of the town, prompting the evacuation of around 1,200 residents to nearby Whitecourt.
Aspenleaf Energy has temporarily halted production of approximately 4,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day and evacuated its field staff as a precautionary measure.
Canadian Natural Resources, which also operates in the area, has not yet commented on the situation.
Another wildfire, approximately 390 hectares in size, is burning out of control in Yellowhead County, marking Alberta's first significant fires this spring.
These incidents follow a particularly destructive wildfire season last year, which saw substantial impacts on oil production and led to widespread evacuations. Financial Post
Forty Mile Wind Farm
ACCIONA Energía, a Spanish renewable energy firm, has commenced commercial operations at its Forty Mile Wind Farm in southern Alberta, marking the company's largest wind project in North America.
The facility features 49 Nordex turbines with a combined capacity of 280 megawatts and a 108m tower height,
Construction, which began in 2023. Renewables Now
The annual
Kids Can Catch Youth Fishing event
June 7 at Len Thompson Trout Pond from 10 to 2
Lacombe Fish and Game Association.
Alberta youth arrested for terrorism-related offence
RCMP Federal Policing Northwest Region Media
Edmonton – On May 12, 2025, the RCMP Federal Policing Northwest Region’s National Security Enforcement Team (INSET) in Alberta arrested a 15-year-old Edmonton area youth for a terrorism-related offence.
The youth was remanded into custody and the RCMP has commenced proceedings against the youth by way of a terrorism peace bond, pursuant to s. 810.011 of the Criminal Code – Fear of terrorism offence. INSET investigators fear the youth will commit terrorism offences related to the COM/764 violent online network.
The 764 network is a transnational online ecosystem of violent online predators who routinely lure youth, particularly those in vulnerable sectors, and encourage them to commit sexual acts, self-harm, and the torture of animals. Elements of The Com/764 network are known to have extreme ideological views and are victimizing children through desensitizing and radicalizing them to violence.
The youth is scheduled to appear for a bail hearing at the Alberta Court of Justice in Edmonton on June 3, 2025.
The Youth Criminal Justice Act prevents any further release of information regarding this individual. As the criminal investigation is ongoing and before the courts, the RCMP will not be making further comments at this time.
“In the face of networks like 764 – which includes youth perpetrators targeting other vulnerable young people online – education is our first line of defense, empowering young people to recognize manipulation, resist extremism, and reclaim the internet as a space for growth, not grooming.”
Letters To The Editor
The views and opinions expressed in letters to the editor are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of this publication.
Last week I attended a town hall meeting in Sylvan Lake about Alberta Independence, and wow—a packed house of 250 engaged Alberta citizens showed up on a weeknight. We came to hear from active voices in this discussion about what a referendum could mean for Alberta. What I learned? There are many perspectives on what a referendum could deliver for Albertans, and people are absolutely fed up, demanding real changes to their government.
This movement is in early stages, but don't mistake that for starting from zero. As I write this, Alberta Prosperity Project (APP) has over 240,000 pledges toward a referendum petition. This is a populist movement—organized by citizens without political party strings attached. A true grassroots uprising! That's incredible support considering there's been little public campaigning beyond these town hall meetings. APP's goal? Secure 600,000 signatures for a referendum petition.
So what exactly is this referendum? Simply put, it's yes-or-no questions on your ballot. Instead of just voting for political parties, you'll answer specific questions directing our province's future governance. Here's what inspires me most: these referendum questions haven't been finalized yet. This is your moment to get engaged and help shape them!
As an Albertan, do you have complaints about government? I can practically see everyone nodding right now—who doesn't have grievances with government these days? Time to stop just complaining. Has that method improved anything for Alberta? It's time to discuss actual solutions. Time to engage with fellow Albertans. Time for change!
In coming months, you'll see events in your community discussing Alberta Independence and possibly separation. Regardless of your feelings, unless you join the discussion, your voice won't be heard. Alberta's future is being decided now, and we each have a duty to participate.
The choice is yours: stay on the sidelines complaining, or step up and help build the Alberta you want to see.
Jon Sedore
Trochu AB
Have an opinion or news to share? Send your letter to the editor at info@kcjmediagroup.com Contact Please include your name and town. We reserve the right to edit or refuse submissions.
CANADIAN NEWS
TD Economics Predicts 100,000 Job Losses Amid Canada's Economic Slowdown
KCJ Media Group Ltd.
Canada is confronting a potential recession in 2025, with TD Economics forecasting the loss of up to 100,000 jobs due to a combination of economic pressures.
Key factors include the Bank of Canada's interest rate hikes aimed at curbing inflation, which have led to reduced consumer spending and business investment.
Additionally, the U.S. imposed tariffs further straining Canada's trade-dependent economy.
TD Economics anticipates that these challenges will result in a "shallow recession," characterized by two consecutive quarters of negative GDP growth.
The unemployment rate is expected to rise, with estimates suggesting it could peak between 7 and 9 per cent if the downturn deepens .
Sectors such as manufacturing, construction, and transportation are particularly vulnerable, especially in provinces like Ontario and Quebec, which are heavily reliant on exports.
Compounding these issues is the expiration of federal tax breaks, which has contributed to an uptick in inflation, with the annual rate rising to 2.6 per cent in February . This inflationary pressure, combined with the economic slowdown, is expected to impact consumer confidence and spending.
While the Canadian labor market has historically been less sensitive to downturns compared to the U.S., recoveries tend to be slower . The current economic landscape suggests that Canada may face prolonged challenges before achieving a full recovery. Financial Post
Manitoba Declares State of Emergency Amid Widespread Wildfires
KCJ Media Group Ltd.
The province of Manitoba has declared a state of emergency as wildfires continue to spread, prompting the evacuation of approximately 17,000 residents from northern and eastern regions, including the city of Flin Flon.
Premier Wab Kinew described the evacuation as one of the largest in recent memory, necessitating significant intergovernmental coordination and resources.
Evacuees are being relocated to shelters in Winnipeg and other urban centers, with assistance from federal armed forces.
The wildfires have already consumed over 491,000 acres in Manitoba this year, surpassing the average of 78 fires for this date.
First Nations communities, including Red Sucker Lake, Little Grand Rapids, and Pauingassi, have also been affected, with evacuations underway due to the encroaching fires and deteriorating air quality.
Smoke from the wildfires is drifting southward, impacting air quality in U.S. cities such as Minneapolis, Milwaukee, Chicago, and Detroit. The Washington Post
The situation remains critical as efforts continue to control the flames and address the needs of displaced individuals. New York Times
Source: Unsplash
Canadian Households Face Mounting Debt and Rising Delinquencies Amid Economic Pressures
KCJ Media Group Ltd.
As of late 2024, Canadian households are grappling with escalating financial pressures, marked by a surge in consumer debt and rising delinquency rates. Total consumer debt soared to $2.56 trillion, a 4.6% increase from the previous year, driven largely by non-bank auto loans and credit card balances . The average non-mortgage debt per consumer reached $21,931, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Everything Mortgages
Mortgage holders, particularly in Ontario and British Columbia, are experiencing significant strain. In Ontario, over 11,000 mortgages recorded missed payments in Q4 2024, nearly triple the number from 2022, with the 90+ day mortgage delinquency rate surging by 90.2% year-over-year to 0.22% . This trend is attributed to the renewal of mortgages at higher interest rates, leading to increased monthly payments. Approximately one million mortgages are set for renewal in 2025, posing potential payment shocks for many homeowners
Credit card debt also reached unprecedented levels, with balances hitting $124 billion—a 9.2% year-over-year increase. The average credit card debt per person climbed to $4,562, reflecting a 6.97% rise from 2024 . Younger Canadians, especially millennials, are disproportionately affected, with many relying on credit cards for everyday expenses.Canadian Debt Relief
Despite recent interest rate cuts, over a quarter of Canadians anticipate being unable to pay at least one of their current bills or loans in full, and more than one in five plan to take on additional debt to manage basic living expenses . The Bank of Canada notes that while most mortgage holders are positioned to manage higher payments due to prior stress testing and income growth, financial stress remains concentrated among households without mortgages .
Agriculture Minister Heath MacDonald: Supply Management Non-Negotiable in Trade Talks
KCJ Media Group Ltd.
In May 2025, Canada's newly appointed Agriculture Minister, Heath MacDonald, affirmed the federal government's unwavering support for the nation's supply management system, which regulates the production and importation of dairy, poultry, and eggs.
This declaration comes amid escalating trade tensions with both China and the United States. China has imposed tariffs on Canadian agricultural exports, including canola, peas, pork, and seafood, while the U.S. maintains tariffs on steel and aluminum—materials vital to Canadian agriculture.
Despite these challenges, MacDonald emphasized that Canada's supply management system is "off the table" in any trade negotiations, underscoring its importance to the country's agricultural sector and rural communities Reuters
The minister's stance aligns with the intent of Bill C-282, a legislative proposal aimed at preventing future trade agreements from compromising Canada's supply-managed sectors. Although the bill faced hurdles in the Senate and was ultimately shelved due to parliamentary prorogation, it highlighted the significant influence of the dairy, poultry, and egg industries in Canadian politics.
MacDonald's commitment to preserving supply management reflects a broader governmental strategy to protect domestic agriculture from external market pressures. The Guardian
Source: Unsplash
Navigating the Storm: Commodity Markets Face Unprecedented Volatility in 2025
KCJ Media Group Ltd.
The global commodity market in 2025 is characterized by heightened volatility and uncertainty, influenced by a confluence of factors.
Geopolitical tensions, including the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and trade policy shifts, have disrupted supply chains and market stability. Additionally, fluctuating weather patterns and climate-related events have impacted agricultural outputs, further contributing to market unpredictability.
Economic indicators, such as inflation and interest rate changes, also play a significant role in commodity price movements.
These dynamics have led to cautious sentiment among producers and investors, who are navigating a complex landscape marked by rapid changes and unforeseen challenges. Farmers Forum
New U.S. Bill Could Boost Canadian Canola Exports for Biofuel Production
KCJ Media Group Ltd.
In May 2025, the U.S. Congress introduced a bill aimed at amending the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit to include canola oil-based biodiesel as an eligible feedstock. This legislative move seeks to recognize canola oil's low carbon intensity, positioning it as a viable component in the U.S. renewable fuel sector.
The proposed amendment could open new market opportunities for Canadian canola producers, especially those in Alberta, by facilitating increased exports to the U.S. Industry stakeholders view this development as a significant step toward enhancing North American energy security and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. The bill's progression through Congress will be closely monitored by both Canadian and American agricultural communities, given its potential impact on cross-border trade and the biofuel industry. Central Alberta Online
Source: Unsplash
RCMP Reports 488% Spike in Terrorism Charges, Citing Youth Radicalization Online
KCJ Media Group Ltd.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has reported a significant 488% increase in terrorism-related charges over the past year, attributing the surge to rising youth radicalization and online extremism.
Between April 2023 and March 2024, 25 individuals faced 83 terrorism charges, including minors and young adults. Global News Homeland Security Today
The RCMP highlighted that digital platforms are facilitating the spread of extremist ideologies among youth, leading to increased engagement with violent content and the evolving landscape of domestic terrorism.
Canadian Politics
Canada Faces Record Debt Issuance Amid Budget Delay
Source: Unsplash
KCJ Media Group Ltd.
Canada is poised to surpass its previous record for government debt issuance this fiscal year, with projections estimating up to C$628 billion in new debt—exceeding the C$593 billion peak during the 2020–21 pandemic period. This surge is attributed to a combination of delayed budget announcements, elevated deficit spending, and the refinancing of maturing bonds. The re-elected Liberal government, led by Prime Minister Mark Carney, has postponed the federal budget until the fall, deviating from the traditional April release. This delay has raised concerns among investors about fiscal transparency and potential unexpected increases in government spending.
Analysts warn that the condensed timeline for debt issuance could lead to higher borrowing costs, as markets may demand increased yields to absorb the influx of government bonds. Canada's 10-year bond yields have already risen notably, reflecting investor caution amid the uncertain fiscal outlook.
Despite Prime Minister Carney's background as a former central banker market experts emphasize the importance of timely and clear fiscal planning to maintain investor confidence.
The government's decision to delay the budget has led to calls for greater transparency to mitigate economic and fiscal uncertainty.Reuters
Where do we apply?
The Canadian Senate will only sit for approximately 76 days in 2025.
FIRE BAN - Effective 4:00 PM, Friday, May 30
Please be advised a Fire Ban has been imposed for the County of Stettler.
A recent article in The Telegraph raises concerns about Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's economic track record, particularly during his tenure as Governor of the Bank of England.
The piece characterizes Carney as a "technocrat with a knack for self-promotion," suggesting that his policies may have contributed to persistent inflation and sluggish growth in the UK.
It warns that his leadership could continue the interventionist economic strategies associated with former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, including increased spending and climate-focused initiatives.
The article also notes that Carney's emphasis on green finance and net-zero policies might pose risks to Canada's economic stability.
Former UK Prime Minister Liz Truss echoed these concerns, criticizing Carney's monetary policies and cautioning that his approach could be detrimental to Canada's economy. Western Standard The Telegraph
Now for a lighter side to the news.
Over the next four years, PM Carney plans to add an extra $225 billion to the debt, according to the most recent Fall Economic Statement.
Carney's green vision may leave oil and gas behind
Opinion - Cheryl Bowman
Prime Minister Mark Carney recently briefed Canada’s premiers on a new “One Window” federal approval system, part of a broader plan to accelerate major infrastructure projects and streamline regulatory processes.
The initiative is being pitched as a step toward national unity and economic resilience.
But beneath the language of efficiency and collaboration lies a familiar tilt in priorities.
Carney’s administration has signalled it will support pipeline development — but only for projects that “make sense,” a phrase that appears to hinge largely on environmental acceptability. For provinces reliant on oil and gas exports, this qualifier raises concern. It suggests a continuation of the federal government’s stance on fossil fuel development, even as energy demands persist and global markets remain volatile.
Carney, a former Bank of Canada and Bank of England governor, has long advocated for climate leadership. His latest push seems aligned with that goal, as Canada doubles down on renewables, carbon capture and clean hydrogen. These technologies may offer future promise, but many remain costly, untested at scale and dependent on significant public investment.
While the plan includes language about economic growth and regional cooperation, some provinces — especially those with resource-based economies — may see a different picture. If traditional energy infrastructure continues to be met with regulatory hesitation while green initiatives are fast-tracked, the result could be further strain between Ottawa and western Canada.
Canada can transition to a lower-carbon future. But doing so by sidelining a key sector — one that continues to support thousands of jobs and drive export revenue — risks undermining the very unity and economic strength the plan claims to advance.
If balance is truly the goal, then the path forward must include meaningful space for both innovation and the responsible development of the resources we have today.
Source: Unsplash