Cold Lake dismayed at federal appeal of judgment on ‘appalling crisis’ in court vacancies

Cold Lake, AB – The City of Cold Lake is discouraged by the federal government’s decision to appeal a court ruling that called on the Government of Canada to catch up on a backlog of judicial appointments to the federal court system.

“Our court system is bogged down by an increase in crime and large numbers of repeat offenders who take up a significant amount of the courts’ time,” Mayor Craig Copeland said. “Add a shortage of judges to the scenario and the situation becomes critical. The public...

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Water shortage response plan created out of precaution

Cold Lake, AB – A lack of snow this winter has left much of the province facing potential water shortages this summer, however, City of Cold Lake council doesn’t want local residents to panic.

“We are coming up with a ‘just in case’ plan for water shortages,” said Mayor Craig Copeland. “We are not putting restrictions on water usage, but if residents want to start voluntarily cutting back, there are several ways in which they can do so.”

A recent letter from the Minister of Alberta Environment...

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Council considers changes to smoking bylaw to allow smudging

Cold Lake, AB – Council will be considering changes to the Smoking Bylaw to allow an exception to permit Indigenous ceremonial use for smudging and/or pipe ceremonies within city facilities.

Under the current bylaws, any type of smoke is not allowed in city buildings or facilities, as well as all public spaces unless a permit is given.

“We’ve asked administration to draft some changes to the bylaw, so these ceremonies can be included at private or public meetings within city buildings,” said...

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City of Cold Lake unveils Cenovus Energy Arena

Cold Lake, AB – The City of Cold Lake is pleased to announce that the second arena in the Energy Centre will be known as the Cenovus Energy Arena.

The Cenovus Energy Arena was officially unveiled on March 17 during a fun family event filled with skating, food, kids activities, and two Canadian Olympic speed skaters.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Cenovus Energy on this initiative,” said Mayor Craig Copeland. “The Cenovus Energy Arena helps our community host important events and tournaments and...

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Provincial budget falls short for northeastern Alberta

Cold Lake, AB – The City of Cold Lake is disappointed that the Government of Alberta’s three-year capital plan contains no funding earmarked to start improvements on Highway 28, meaning that the earliest that substantial improvements could be realized will now be stretched to 2028.

“We know a commitment was made to study what upgrades are needed for Highway 28 in early 2023, but there does not seem to be any sense of urgency for a highway that has been in obvious need of upgrades for well over a...

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