Very interesting timing for the Prentice announcement about a salary cut, just days after City Council approved an independent committee’s increase of their own wages. But is that really what the announcement is about, or is it more about the unions? What is going to happen with taxes in Alberta? Does our City Council need to make any symbolic cuts like the Province is? When might a provincial election be called?

We also discuss winter, from a variety of angles. People enjoy winter all over the world, why can’t we enjoy it here? Do we have to stay locked indoors during the winter? When can I get some mulled wine outside? Why is this canal idea for Rossdale coming forward now, if we already have Touch the Water? We agree Edmontonians should be able to enjoy access to the river, but what’s the best way to do that? With all the construction happening downtown, what changes are needed to improve construction hoarding? We discuss those questions and more.

Here are some relevant links for this episode:

• Premier Jim Prentice and cabinet take 5% wage cut
• City councillors defend 3.8% salary hike
• Winter Cities Shake-Up 2015
• Canal development proposed for Rossdale
• Mechanized Access and Touch the Water Promenade
• Freezeway could come to Edmonton next winter
• Coming up at City Council: February 2-6, 2015

Thanks for listening!

Why are our hospitals falling apart? Why haven’t we planned properly to maintain them? Are we doing a better job with other things, like neighbourhood renewal? Why can’t the Oilers seem to turn things around when other teams have been able to? Are fans finally starting to stay away from games as a result? What’s going on with the Northlands Arena Strategy Committee? Is the cancelled Santa Claus Parade a bad thing or an opportunity? Are we tough enough to get outside? Why hasn’t Earth’s General Store found success on 104 Street?

We discuss those questions and more!

Here are some relevant links for this episode:

• From burst pipes to invading ant colonies, problems plague Alberta’s hospitals
• Oilers standing pat, GM Craig MacTavish says
• Janet Riopel named Edmonton Chamber of Commerce president
• Northlands Arena Strategy Committee launches Exploration Subcommittee
• Northlands Arena Strategy Committee launches Engagement Subcommittee
• You better not cry, you better not pout: Santa Claus indoor mall parade cancelled
• Your Guide to Winter 2014/2015 Festivals & Events in Edmonton
• Earth’s General Store marketing survey

Thanks for listening!