Alberta Next panel announced with legislature members, academics and business leaders
Premier Danielle Smith says she'll be spending the summer touring the province with business leaders, backbenchers and an academic to find ways to protect Alberta from what she calls federal mistreatment and overreach.
She says Ottawa is to blame for decades of lost investment and resource revenue and that Alberta can't be held back any longer.
The premier is to lead the Alberta Next panel, which also includes three United Conservative Party legislature members, Environment Minister Rebecca Schulz, a retired judge and a physician.
County downgrades Fire Restriction to Fire Advisory
Effective at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, the County of Grande Prairie Regional Fire Service will downgrade the Fire Restriction to a Fire Advisory for the entire County, along with the towns of Beaverlodge, Sexsmith and Wembley.
While the Fire Advisory is in effect, fire permits may be restricted.
Burning is not allowed when winds reach, or are forecasted to reach, 12 kilometres per hour or higher.
Meat producers warn internal trade bill could cause blowback with trade partners
The Canadian Meat Council is warning that the Liberal government’s legislation to ease the movement of goods and services within Canada could actually undermine red meat exports.
Lauren Martin, senior director of public affairs for the organization, says the bill is raising questions about whether it could lead the federal government to recognize provincial rules for inspecting meat processing facilities as equal to federal standards.
Severe thunderstorm watch for the B.C. North Peace River region
Environment Canada has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for the B.C. North Peace River region.
Conditions are favourable for storms that may bring heavy rain, strong winds, or hail.
Residents are urged to stay alert and take cover if storms approach.
Remember: when thunder roars, go indoors—lightning can be deadly.
Information provided by Environment Canada
Northwestern Polytechnic announces new graphic design diploma program
Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) is again adding to its program portfolio with a new Graphic Design Diploma starting Fall 2026.
This dynamic two-year diploma prepares students for creative careers in areas such as advertising, marketing, publishing, web design, and digital media. Graduates will leave with a strong portfolio, industry-relevant skills, and the creative confidence to thrive in today’s fast-paced design world.
Hamelin Creek wildfire update
The Hamelin Creek Wildfire (GWF028), located in the Blueberry Mountain area, is still classified as Out of Control, at 5,557 ha, with approximately 67 km of perimeter fire guard to maintain.
The State of Local Emergency issued by Saddle Hills County has expired, as of June 23, 2025, at 6:25 p.m. and the mandatory Evacuation Order has been rescinded. The fire poses no immediate threat to residents, at this time. However, an Evacuation Alert remains in effect for all those in the vicinity of the fire (pictured) and residents should remain prepared, should conditions change.
City of Dawson Creek property tax due July 2
Property Tax Notices for the City of Dawson Creek were mailed on May 7, 2025.
Property Taxes are due on Wednesday, July 2, 2025.
Home Owner Grant Applications
The Provincial Home Owner Grant must be claimed each year through the Province of British Columbia. To apply, visit www.gov.bc.ca/homeownergrant or call 1-888-355-2700 for assistance.
Payment Options
Property taxes can be paid in the following ways:
Confirmed cases of measles in Grande Prairie
Alberta Health Services (AHS) has been notified of a person with confirmed measles in the North Zone who has been in a public setting while infectious.
Individuals who were in the following location(s) during the specified dates and times may have been exposed to measles:
Location:
Shoppers Drug Mart Wapiti Centre
10720 78 Ave
Grande Prairie, AB
T8W 0G9
Exposure Time Period:
June 17, 2025: 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. (MDT)
Grande Prairie City Hall hours extended ahead of tax payment deadline
Residents can make their tax payments at the City Hall front-desk counter during the following extended business hours: