Recent content by roe_

At the end of the day, we can agree to disagree on the philosophy, but the market usually settles these debates anyway. Even if covenants remain a tool for some, they are ultimately self-defeating for two reasons: First, they actively reduce property value; most owners aren't incentivized to...

While arguing this might be a classic exercise in internet futility, I have to point out the flaw in your logic: a covenant isn't about protecting your own property rights; you already have the right to decide what you build on your lot. It’s about stripping those rights away from the next...

It is rare to see someone defend exclusivity so plainly; usually, people hide behind 'character' to mask the intent of keeping others out. But calling it what it is only reveals the next issue: this isn’t about what you do with your property — it’s about you telling your neighbours what they can...

If that is the case, we should call it what it is: a policy of exclusivity. The true 'value' of such a covenant is its ability to keep people out and require those with fewer means to live elsewhere. That is certainly a position one can take, but we should at least be honest about the intent.

It's time to drop the 'second-city' complex. Comparing ourselves to Calgary is a sign of low self-esteem that ignores the actual momentum. People are voting with their feet: in 2025, Edmonton’s growth rate (3.1%) edged out Calgary’s (2.9%), and we had over 21,000 housing starts. Calgary is...

But doesn't this ignore the fact that we just had an election and all pro-infill councillors were re-elected? Based on the outcome of the election, aren't the proposed change to the bylaw a result of a small group of individuals trying to co-ordinate their advocacy contrary to what most...

Why isn't there any competition? We used to have Consumers Distributing, which was essentially an analog version of Amazon...

Good video. And a timely reminder on how lucky we were to lock in prices when we did. 2.8B for the WLRT is an amazing deal compared to the green line.

I have to disagree. While the hub-and-spoke model is real, the idea that Edmonton has 'nothing to offer' is more of a local myth than a business reality. We actually have a massive advantage right now: we’re a high-income, low-tax option for Canadians who are currently avoiding US travel. What...

How many "reimaginings" are going to be needed to make this a pleasant space?

Why has no one ever suggested this before?! We could have had this problem solved ages ago!

Interesting discussion on Indigenous place names. I was slightly amused when I heard a British person try to pronounce Kananaskis, which they found very difficult. It reminded me of when I was in New Zealand and found the Maori place names unusual and difficult to pronounce. Locals, however...

:rolleyes:I certainly don't take pleasure, but I also don't hand-wring about being left behind. Edmonton should be Edmonton and worry less about being compared to Calgary.

A sign that the market in some cities is truly messed up. Not healthy at all.

Instead of going flashy or artificial, why not make the gondola reflect the river valley. Make each car feel like you are stepping into the woods as you float among the trees. Have massive windows, use local wood, make it feel Scandinavian chic instead of tacky Las Vegas knock off. I bet you...