2025 State of the Region

As we step into 2025, the County of Newell and its surrounding communities are looking ahead with optimism. The recent State of the Region Address brought together key leaders, including County Reeve Arno Doerksen, Brooks Mayor John Petrie, and Premier Danielle Smith, to reflect on the past year’s accomplishments and outline the priorities for the year ahead. Covering everything from infrastructure and economic development to housing, healthcare, and agriculture, the address provided a comprehensive overview of where we stand and where we’re headed.

Strengthening the Region Through Partnerships

One of the defining themes of this year’s address was the importance of collaboration. The County of Newell continues to work closely with the City of Brooks, surrounding municipalities, school divisions, and local organizations to ensure that services, infrastructure, and economic opportunities remain strong and well-coordinated.

Mayor Petrie emphasized that Brooks and the surrounding region are not just separate municipalities but one interconnected community. With shared economic goals and infrastructure projects in the works, the collaborative spirit remains a key driver of progress. Reeve Doerksen echoed this sentiment, noting that nothing gets solved outside of the district better than it can be solved locally.

Agriculture and Water Management: Investing in Sustainability

Agriculture remains the backbone of the regional economy, and investments in water infrastructure are critical for future growth. The County has signed a lease agreement with the Alberta government for Crop Diversification Centre South, a 740-acre research facility dedicated to small-plot irrigated agriculture. Plans are underway to establish a non-profit research entity to operate the facility, attracting industry partners and funding for research that will benefit the entire region.

The region is also advocating for additional funding in the upcoming provincial budget to maintain and upgrade critical irrigation infrastructure. With the expansion of the BRID (Bow River Irrigation District) adding 25,000 new acres, there is optimism that similar irrigation expansions could be achieved within the County of Newell.

Tourism and Recreation: Showcasing the Region

Tourism remains a significant opportunity for growth in the region, and efforts are underway to promote local attractions. Premier Smith highlighted the region’s potential after her personal tour of Dinosaur Provincial Park, Kinbrook Island, and the Brooks Aqueduct. With major events like the Calgary Stampede and the 2025 International Road Conference in Alberta, the region is looking for ways to attract visitors who might otherwise only explore Banff and Kananaskis.

A new Marina project at Lake Newell is also in the works, alongside the completion of the Kinbrook Connection Pathway Project, both of which will enhance recreational opportunities for residents and tourists alike.

Infrastructure and Economic Development: Growth on the Horizon

Over the past year, significant investments have been made in the region’s infrastructure and economic landscape. Some of the key projects include:

• JBS Expansion: The $80 million investment into the hamburger patty processing plant will solidify the company’s contract with Wendy’s and create new job opportunities.
• Chinook Solar Farm: A 23.6 MW solar energy project is in the works, contributing to Alberta’s renewable energy landscape.
• Snake Lake Reservoir Expansion: This expansion is critical for local farmers and irrigation, ensuring sustainable water access for agriculture.
• New JBS Access Road: This long-awaited road project, supported by the province, will improve safety and accessibility for the JBS plant and reduce congestion on the Trans-Canada Highway.
• Hydrogen Hub Development: The City of Brooks and the County of Newell are working with industry and the province to establish a viable hydrogen market, positioning the region as a leader in clean energy innovation.

Housing and Development

Housing remains a pressing issue in Brooks and the surrounding areas, but progress is being made. Several new developments will add over 300 housing units, including apartments, townhouses, and condominiums. Key projects include:

• Wellings of Brooks: 88 units currently under construction, with a total of 160 planned.
• Regal Development: A 43-unit apartment building downtown.
• Cira Homes: A 112-unit apartment building with commercial space on the ground floor.
• Span West: Plans for a 31-unit condominium complex.

With these additions, Brooks is set for its most significant housing growth in decades, addressing both rental shortages and long-term housing availability.

Healthcare and Education: Meeting Community Needs

The region has seen improvements in healthcare services, including:

• Expansion of surgical services in Brooks and Medicine Hat to reduce wait times.
• Introduction of nurse practitioners to provide primary care, including one now practicing in Brooks.
• New medical training programs in Lethbridge and Grand Prairie, aimed at increasing the number of doctors practicing in rural areas.

Brooks was also identified as a priority location for healthcare facility upgrades, and a provincial review of rural health centers is underway to address deferred maintenance and equipment needs.

Education Investments

A major win for the region is the construction of a new Brooks Junior High School, a $1 million project that will accommodate 720 students in Grades 7–9. Additionally, Christ the Redeemer Catholic Schools has identified Brooks as its top priority for a new school, and advocacy efforts are ongoing to secure provincial funding.

Beyond K-12 education, the South Alberta Flight Academy in Dunmore is expanding to provide students with aviation training, including aircraft maintenance and piloting programs.

Looking Ahead in 2025

As the region moves forward, leadership at all levels is focused on ensuring sustainable growth, economic opportunity, and quality of life for residents. Mayor Petrie’s closing remarks emphasized that while challenges remain, Brooks Newell Region is growing, thriving, and attracting investment. His lighthearted comment about walking in the April snow to decide on re-election reflects the optimism and humor that define this community.

With major infrastructure projects, growing industries, and a commitment to collaboration, 2025 promises to be another year of progress and opportunity for the Brooks Newell region.