Starting this month, we’re making improvements at 15 storm ponds that have been identified as the highest priority for additional safety measures.

https://preview.redd.it/h38hggr757kh1.png?width=1039&format=png&auto=webp&s=cb87eca1de64a81899152063daf3c734ea3b2d3b

Depending on the location, that means replacing older warning signs, adding new signs that explain the risks, installing permanent or seasonal fencing, and planting thicker, thornier vegetation to create a barrier around the water.

Storm ponds are found in communities across Calgary. They collect and manage stormwater, helping protect our communities and infrastructure during heavy rain and snowmelt.

But they’re working pieces of infrastructure, not recreational ponds.

The water level and depth can change quickly. There can be strong currents around inlet and outlet pipes. And in the winter, moving water underneath the surface means the ice thickness can change without warning.

So please, no swimming, boating, skating or walking on the ice. Stay off storm ponds year-round.

We’re also continuing field assessments across Calgary to identify other locations where additional safety improvements are needed.

And if you ever see someone in trouble in the water, call 911. Throw them something that floats or reach out with something they can grab if you’re able to do so safely. Don’t enter the water unless you’re trained in water rescue.

These ponds are in a lot of our neighbourhoods, so please talk to your kids about them too. Enjoy the paths and green spaces around them, but give the water some space and stay off the ponds year-round.

Thanks, Calgary. Stay safe out there!

For more information on safety around storm ponds, visit calgary.ca/stormpondsafety.

Reposted from https://yycbump.ca/event/caldera-2026-festival-finale/

EVENT LOCATION

Contemporary Calgary Loading Dock

701 11 St SW

August 15, 2026

06:00 PM - 23:59 PM

Deep in the earth, a CALDERA forms after an eruption so powerful that the landscape collapses inward, making way for the new. We lurch forward through pressure, steam, and lava into this advanced sonic chamber. Enter our festival finale.

We have noisemakers from across this floating landmass to soundtrack the world that comes after the surge. From Toronto, ANGELPHROOT blends cyberfuturism, and euphoric club music into ecstatic, high energy sets. Your favourite producer’s favourite producer is definitely LITTLE SNAKE, arriving with a singular vision that slips between hip hop, IDM, bass music, and experimental electronics, while Brooklyn’s NEXTDIMENSIONAL channels dreamlike techno, hypnotic breaks, and East Coast club through her influential label, Starry Records. Joined by Calgary’s own A-51 and NALGÓTICA, CALDERA brings together artists pushing electronic music toward its next frontier.

For us, a free rave is an act of public imagination. At a moment when barriers are continually erected, with price tags increasingly determining who gets to participate in culture – we believe extraordinary artistic experiences belong to everyone. Public space should be a place of encounter, not exclusion. After two weeks of murals, conversations, and ideas moving through the city, we invite you into the CALDERA, to dance together into whatever comes next.

Learn more about our performers here.

We're seeing big wildfire risk across Western Canada and that's why we're launching our first wildfire prevention campaign in Calgary. 

While we aren't surrounded by forests, wildfire and grass fire are big risks here. Calgary Fire responds to an average of 23 wildland fires every month. And as our city grows, more homes are being built close to grasslands, natural areas, and other places where fires spread quickly.

There are a few simple things you can do around your home:

• Clear dry leaves, grass, and other things that burn easily away from your house.
• Keep firewood, propane tanks, and yard waste away from your home.
• If you’re renovating, look at more fire-resistant materials.
• And please be careful with cigarettes, fire pits, barbecues, and any open flame. Improperly discarded smoking materials remain one of the leading causes of outdoor fires in Calgary.

Our firefighters train for wildland fires and have specialized equipment ready when we need it. We’re also working with communities next to natural areas to better understand and reduce their risk.

You can go to calgary.ca/wildfire, enter your community, see where the higher-risk areas are, and find steps you can take around your home.

A few minutes of work around your property today helps protect your home, your neighbours, and our city.

Stay safe, Calgary!

Well, this was a first.

When Make-A-Wish Canada and the Alberta Ghostbusters asked if they could bring Brent into my office to help him save Calgary from Slimer, I was in.

I wasn't going to be known as the mayor that let Calgary become the most haunted city west of Winnipeg.

Brent had the harder job. He and the Ghostbusters went on a mission all around the city, took on Slimer at the Stampede Grandstand, saved City Hall, and somewhere along the way I got covered in five gallons of green slime.

Once Calgary was safe, I got to do the best part. I presented Brent with a White Hat, our city's highest honour. A big thank you to Brent and his family for letting me be part of his wish, and to Make-A-Wish Canada and the Alberta Ghostbusters for making the day happen.

And thank you to the Digital Media Integrations crew for all the work behind the scenes, on set, and for these great photos.

Brent, thanks for saving Calgary.

Who you gonna call?

I’m down on Stephen Avenue and I wanted to give you an update on what we’re doing to make things safer.

We've opened the new Stephen Avenue Safety Hub, where Calgary Police, Community Standards, Transit Public Safety, and outreach teams are working side by side from one location. That means faster coordination, quicker responses, more visible patrols, and better support for local businesses and people who need help.

We're also increasing lighting, cleaning, and maintenance because the small things matter when it comes to making people feel safe downtown.

At the same time, we've completed the first block of the Stephen Avenue revitalization between Centre Street and 1 Street S.E. So if you're coming downtown, evening and weekend parking at the Harmony Parkade is free through the next year.

These improvements are supporting more than 50 businesses along Stephen Avenue. So if you haven't been downtown in a while, come grab a coffee, have dinner, or check out what's new.

We're making steady progress but we know there’s a lot more to do. We're going to keep investing in safety, supporting local businesses, and making downtown a place where people want to spend their time.

I hope to see you on Stephen Avenue!

I'm here on 17th Ave, and I wanted to let you know about the increased Traffic Safety Team and Calgary Police presence you'll be seeing here. 

One of the biggest complaints we get every summer is excessive vehicle noise. Modified exhausts, constant engine revving, squealing tires, and loud stereos. It might seem like a small thing, but if you're trying to sleep, enjoy dinner on a patio, or spend time in the neighbourhood, it gets old pretty quick.

So throughout August, we're increasing enforcement on 17th Avenue, especially during the afternoons and evenings when those complaints are at their highest.

If your vehicle is louder than the law allows, there's a good chance you'll be pulled over. Illegal exhaust modifications, excessive revving, loud stereos, all of that will be a focus.

Fines start at $270, and refusing a noise test carries a $300 fine. We're doing this because you should be able to open your windows on a summer evening, have a conversation on a patio, or walk down one of Calgary's main streets without being drowned out by a few vehicles.

If there's another area where you're seeing the same problem, let us know through 311 or the Calgary Police non-emergency line. Those reports help us decide where to focus enforcement next.

A little courtesy goes a long way. Thanks, Calgary!

If you've ever wanted a seat at the table where decisions get made, this is your chance.

This morning I wanted to let you know that applications are now open for Calgary's Boards, Commissions, and Committees. 

These groups help shape everything from housing and planning to public safety, accessibility, climate, and community services. They give advice to Council, provide oversight, and help make sure City Hall is hearing from people across Calgary.

You don't need to be a politician or have City Hall experience. We need people from every walk of life. If you care about Calgary and want to help make it better, I'd encourage you to put your name forward.

Applications are open until September 1. Head to calgary.ca/boards to see the opportunities and apply.

The best ideas for Calgary don't all come from City Hall. Many start with people like you. I hope you'll put your name forward.

Today, the City of Calgary is issuing a fire advisory because of the hot, dry conditions we're seeing across our city.

This isn’t a fire ban, but we are asking everyone to be extra careful with anything that creates a flame or spark.

If you're using a fire pit or barbecue, keep a hose or bucket of water nearby. Never leave a fire unattended, and make sure it's completely out before you leave it. Keep fire pits at least three metres away from fences, buildings, trees, and anything else that can catch fire.

If you smoke, please dispose of cigarette butts safely. Don't throw them onto the ground or out a vehicle window. It only takes one spark to start a grass fire in these conditions.

Our firefighters are watching conditions closely every day. If the fire danger increases, we'll let you know and take additional steps if needed.

You can always check the latest fire danger ratings and any restrictions at calgary.ca/firebans.

We all have a role to play in preventing fires. A little extra caution helps keep Calgary safe.

Thanks, everyone!

Proud of our City of Calgary staff who have arrived in Edmonton to help after the recent severe storms. They're clearing dangerous trees, reopening roads and parks, and supporting recovery alongside local crews. When our neighbours need help, Calgary steps up. We're with you, Edmonton.

By voting last night to begin work on a Calgary lobbyist registry, Council took a major step toward making us a national leader in open government.

Councillor Harrison Clark brought forward this motion and I was proud to sponsor it alongside Councillors Nate Schmidt and Myke Atkinson.

Calgary is growing up as a city. We're making billion-dollar decisions that shape housing, transportation, public safety, and your quality of life.

To be clear, we’re not talking about residents calling 311 about a pothole, asking for a playground, or emailing their councillor about a local issue. We’re talking about paid lobbyists who are hired to influence major decisions on behalf of clients. 

To be fair, lobbying is a legitimate part of government. Businesses, charities, labour organizations, community groups, and residents all have the right to meet with decision makers.

But right now, there is no public registry, like what exists at the federal and provincial levels, to show who is lobbying City Hall or what they're lobbying about. And that's what we're working to change.

The motion asks our Ethics Advisor to study what a Calgary lobbyist registry should look like, including who should be covered, what information should be public, and what it would cost. The motion was also strengthened during debate by an amendment from Councillor Jamieson, expanding the review to include senior City administration as well as elected officials.

Calgary is becoming one of Canada's biggest cities. We should also be one of Canada's most transparent cities. I'm really proud that Council took this first step, and I’ll keep you in the loop as things progress.

Early tomorrow morning, City of Calgary crews are heading to Edmonton as part of an emergency mutual aid response after back-to-back severe storms caused widespread damage across the city.
 
The destruction has been so extensive that Edmonton's forestry crews and local contractors have been overwhelmed. Thousands of damaged and fallen trees are blocking roads, damaging public spaces, and creating ongoing safety hazards. With more storms in the forecast, they asked for help, and we’re answering that call.
 
Our first deployment includes 12 certified Urban Forestry staff, including arborists, technical tree fallers, forestry ground crews, horticulturalists, and trained labourers. They'll work alongside Edmonton crews to remove dangerous trees, clear debris, reopen public spaces, and help limit the spread of Dutch elm disease.
 
More help will be on the way. Over the coming days, Calgary will also deploy 10 Mobility operators and a foreman with specialized equipment, along with three Waste and Recycling operators and a rear loading compactor truck, supported by Fleet and Inventory.
 
When Calgary has faced disasters, including major floods, severe storms, and the Bearspaw feeder main emergency, other communities stepped up for us. I want to reassure you that this deployment will not reduce City services here at home, and Edmonton will reimburse Calgary for all costs. Edmonton has always had our back and we have theirs. It’s what we do in Alberta. It's what we do in Canada. 
 
To our City crews leaving for Edmonton, thank you. Your skills will make a real difference, and all of Calgary is proud of you. Edmonton, help is on the way.

We've officially made it through the 2026 high river flow season, and I wanted to share a quick update.

This wasn't an easy year. Our mountain snowpack was well above normal. We had about 50 per cent more rain than usual from mid May through mid July. Then we had two major rain events that put our flood protection system to the test.

The good news is that it worked.

For the first time ever, the Springbank Off-Stream Reservoir was put into operation. It diverted 13 million cubic metres of floodwater away from Calgary. The Glenmore Reservoir also helped keep flows on the Elbow River at safe levels through the city.

That's a big milestone, and it's the result of years of planning, investment, and coordination. Thank you to our City crews, emergency responders, our provincial partners, and everyone who worked around the clock to keep Calgarians safe.

Climate change means we're seeing more extreme weather, and we have to be ready for it. Whether it's floods, wildfires, heat, or other emergencies, resilience isn't something we build after a disaster. We build it beforehand. That's why we'll keep investing in the infrastructure, planning, and emergency preparedness that help keep our city safe.

For now, it's summer. If you're planning to float the Bow, paddle the Elbow, or spend the day by the river, check conditions before you head out. Wear your life jacket. Use designated access points. Even on a hot day, our rivers are cold, fast, and unpredictable.

Our rivers are one of Calgary's greatest assets. Let's enjoy them, respect them, and keep each other safe.

Have a great summer, and I'll see you out there!

For anyone wondering what is going on...

The White Hat Ceremony is Calgary's version of saying, "Welcome, you're one of us now."

Since the 1950s, we've welcomed world leaders, royalty, astronauts, Olympians, and plenty of other visitors by giving them a white cowboy hat and having them take the White Hat Oath. At the end of it, they're officially honourary Calgarians.

This week I led that tradition for His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V, along with Prince Irfan and Prince Sinan during their first visit to Western Canada.

Yes, there is an oath. Yes, I have to keep a straight face while asking international dignitaries to enthusiastically say "Yahoo!"

It's one of the best parts of the job.

Many people have asked what we mean when we ask residents to "check their property." In this video, Sergeant Chris Martin demonstrates how to properly search areas where Parker may seek shelter.

What might not make sense to you could make sense to Parker.

Please thoroughly check your own property and any public spaces you are permitted to access. Do not enter or search private property without permission.

Parker is known to enter accessible buildings and can lock doors behind him. Check homes, garages, sheds, vehicles, trailers, RVs, storage areas, under decks, between fences & hedges, & anywhere a child may seek shelter from the heat.

Parker is neurodivergent & non-verbal & may become frightened if approached by strangers. If you see him, do not approach. Keep him in sight & call 911 immediately.

Information?

CPS: 403-266-1234

Calgary Crime Stoppers

Missing Children Society of Canada: 1-800-661-6160

MCSC rescu: https://rescu.mcsc.ca/

Case #: CA26318270 | 3955

We continue to ask for the public's help in locating Parker, 11, and are providing an update on the extensive search and investigative efforts underway to find him.

Today, we are releasing a map of Parker's known and believed route on Thursday, July 16, 2026. The map outlines his confirmed movements captured on CCTV. Please note: the numbered points don't identify a specific location of CCTV submission, but mark points where we believe his route shifted.

Since Parker was reported missing, a dedicated team of investigators, patrol officers, search-and-rescue personnel and partner agencies has been focused on locating him. Working around the clock, we have pursued every available lead, reviewed evidence, assessed public tips and coordinated search operations across Calgary. The investigation and search remain active, and all resources available continue to be dedicated to finding Parker.

"We are not giving up," says Acting Staff Sgt. Scott Guterson of the Missing Persons Unit. "This is every parent's worst nightmare, and our hearts remain with Parker's family as they continue to live through this incredibly difficult and heartbreaking time. From the moment Parker was reported missing, a dedicated team has been working around the clock to find him. Every tip is being thoroughly assessed, every lead is being followed and every available resource is being used. We know this case has touched people across Calgary, and we remain grateful for the support we have received from the public. We continue to ask anyone with information to come forward and to allow investigators to follow up on leads safely and effectively."

We have now become aware of individuals attending private residences, confronting residents and encouraging others through social media to investigate criminal tips on their own. This behaviour is unacceptable and is putting community members at risk. Everyone wants to find Parker, and we understand the emotions involved. But showing up at private homes, confronting residents or organizing your own investigations can hinder our efforts and draws police resources away from the search and investigation.

Police are thoroughly investigating all tips and reports received. If you have information, report it to police and allow investigators to follow up on those leads. People who engage in unlawful behaviour will face charges.

To date, we have covered more than 7,000 kilometres of distance, the equivalent of the distance from Calgary to London, England. Search operations have included over 5,500 total search hours, several hundred homes and businesses searched, aerial support, canine resources, mountain bike patrols, mounted patrols, extensive river searches by the Calgary Fire Department, including underwater camera deployments and extensive searches conducted by CPKC along its rail tracks and surrounding property.

More than 400 CPS members have assisted in the search effort, and officers have conducted door-to-door inquiries in surrounding communities and continue to canvas the area. Officers have reviewed, or are currently reviewing, several hundred hours of CCTV, residential security camera and dashcam footage. Over 300 tips have been received and assessed by investigators.

Members of the public may continue to see a significant police and search presence in these communities, including our Air Support Unit, Mounted Patrol Team, Mountain Bike Unit, Canine Unit, patrol officers, investigators and trained search volunteers.

Parker was last seen shirtless, wearing dark shorts and black noise-cancelling headphones. He is described as 4'11" tall, weighing approximately 90 pounds, with brown hair, a shaved head and brown eyes.

Parker is neurodivergent and non-verbal and may become even more scared if confronted by strangers. If Parker is located, members of the public are asked not to approach him. Instead, keep him in sight and call 911 immediately.

We recognize this incident may impact everyone in the community. We want to ensure anyone impacted has been connected with support. The Calgary Police Service Victim Assistance Support Team (VAST) is a free service that provides support, resources and information to victims of crime and tragedy. For anyone who needs support, VAST can be reached at 403-428-8398 or toll-free at 1-888-327-7828. More information is available at https://www.calgary.ca/cps/community-programs-and-resources/victims-of-crime/victim-assistance-support-team.html

Anyone with information about his whereabouts, or who may have CCTV or dashcam footage of Parker, is asked to contact police by calling 403-266-1234 or by submitting it here: https://cps.ca.evidence.com/axon/community-request/public/ca26318270

We continue to ask anyone in the Thorncliffe area who may have CCTV, residential security camera and dashcam footage from Thursday, July 16, 2026, to now, regardless of whether Parker is seen, to submit the footage to police through the upload link here: https://cps.ca.evidence.com/axon/community-request/public/ca26318270

Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers through any of the following methods:

TALK: 1-800-222-8477
TYPE: www.calgarycrimestoppers.org
APP: P3 Tips

Case # CA26318270/3916

I'm on my commute this morning and I wanted to take a short break to update you on how we're working to make transportation better in the Calgary area. Our city and nearby towns are protected to reach two million people this year, and that's changing how we think about mobility.

Every day, hundreds of thousands of people travel in and around Calgary region. We choose what works best for their family. Some seniors drive to appointments. Some workers commute by transit. Some kids bike to school.

Most of us don't think of mobility as some political statement, we just choose what works best for us on a given day. 

That's why last week, a City Council committee voted to explore transit integration options with Airdrie.

Calgary is studying how our systems connect today, what stronger regional service might look like, what it would cost, and what benefits it would provide.

I love this approach of working together with our neighbours. We've already seen regional partnerships succeed. MAX Purple connects Calgary and Chestermere through a partnership between our two cities.

People get around in different ways, and good government means getting out of the way and respecting people's personal choices. Our job is to build a network that works whether you're that senior driving to an appointment, a worker riding transit, or a kid biking to school.

As our region grows, we need to plan together. That's why I've been meeting with mayors, reeves, and leaders across the region, including Tsuut'ina Nation, to tackle the challenges and opportunities we share.

Thanks Calgary, I'll keep you updated as this work moves forward.