Briefing on the Federal Electoral District of Edmonton—Wetaskiwin

Edmonton—Wetaskiwin is a federal electoral district in Alberta, Canada, which encompasses the County of Wetaskiwin, Leduc County, and a portion of the City of Edmonton. The riding was created in 2013 as a result of the federal electoral boundaries redistribution and has since played a crucial role in federal elections.

Population Centres

Edmonton—Wetaskiwin includes several significant population centres, including:

• Wetaskiwin, a city of approximately 13,000 people known for its agricultural and automotive heritage.
• Leduc, a neighboring city with a population of 31,000 and a major economic driver in the region due to its proximity to the Edmonton International Airport.
• Beaumont, a town situated on the northern tip of Leduc County and home to over 20,000 people.
• Millet, a small town that was recently awarded a grant to expand its community hall and park facilities.

Issues and Events

Between 2019 to 2022, Edmonton—Wetaskiwin has faced various local issues and events, including:

• The COVID-19 pandemic, which affected businesses and schools in the district, resulting in closures and limited capacity. The district's proximity to the airport made it a prime location for the shipment and distribution of vaccines and personal protective equipment (PPE) during the pandemic.
• The Wetaskiwin Airshow, which celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2019, was a significant event for aviation enthusiasts in the region.
• The discovery of unmarked graves or suspected unmarked graves at multiple residential school sites in Canada led to protests and vigils in the district.

Economy

Edmonton—Wetaskiwin boasts a diverse economy, with key industries such as:

• Agriculture, including farms and ranches in and around Wetaskiwin that produce grain, cattle, and other livestock.
• Oil and gas production and services, which provide jobs and income for residents in the region.
• Manufacturing and retail, with large employers like the Leduc Industrial Park which houses a variety of businesses including aircraft manufacturing and technological innovation.

Major employers in the district include the Edmonton International Airport, Nisku Industrial Park, and local retailers like Walmart and Canadian Tire. The Alberta government awarded millions of dollars to upgrade and expand major highways in the area, including the QE II Highway.

Important Landmarks

Edmonton—Wetaskiwin is home to several natural and cultural landmarks, such as:

• The Pigeon Lake Provincial Park, a popular outdoor destination for locals and tourists with a range of activities such as fishing, hiking, and camping.
• Reynolds-Alberta Museum, which showcases the history and evolution of transportation in Alberta and Canada.

Arts and Culture

The district has a rich arts and cultural scene, including:

• Affordable housing options have helped create a thriving arts community in Leduc with events like the Arts in the Park initiative that showcases local artists and their creations.
• If you are looking to dance the night away, the City of Wetaskiwin hosts the annual Dance in the Park event in summertime with live music and food trucks.

Electoral Issues

During the 2021 federal election campaign, key economic and social issues in Edmonton—Wetaskiwin included:

• Job creation and economic recovery, with a focus on supporting and expanding small businesses within the district.
• Healthcare infrastructure and funding, as local hospitals and healthcare providers continue to face challenges during the pandemic.

Community Organizations

Edmonton—Wetaskiwin is home to numerous community organizations dedicated to improving economic and social outcomes, such as:

• The Leduc Chamber of Commerce, which aims to strengthen local businesses and the economy through networking, events, and advocacy.
• Wetaskiwin Regional Public Schools Education Foundation, a non-profit organization that raises funds to support student initiatives and scholarships.

Multicultural Groups

Edmonton—Wetaskiwin has a diverse population, with significant cultural demographic segments including:

• Indigenous peoples, who hold a strong connection to the land, history, and traditions of the region.
• Newcomers from around the world, who bring their cultures and experiences to the communities they join.

In summary, Edmonton—Wetaskiwin is an important riding that encompasses a diverse range of industries, communities, and landmarks. Major population centres include Wetaskiwin, Leduc, and Beaumont, with important attractions like Pigeon Lake Provincial Park and Reynolds-Alberta Museum. The COVID-19 pandemic and the discovery of unmarked graves at residential school sites have shaped recent local events, while healthcare infrastructure and funding and job creation were key issues during the 2021 federal election. The riding is home to a variety of organizations dedicated to advancing economic and social outcomes, and cultural groups like Indigenous peoples and newcomers contribute to the rich tapestry of the region's history and development.