Hello neighbours, and welcome to November! Today is the first day of Alberta Time, so there were no clocks to change this morning. This week, we're looking at how Leduc is planning for its next chapter of growth, what's in store for the future West Leduc Recreation Centre, a property tax date for Beaumont homeowners, and some free ways to enjoy winter in Beaumont.

How is Leduc planning for future growth?

The City of Leduc is working on expanding its municipal boundary so it has enough land for the next 50 years of growth. According to the City, Leduc continues to grow at the high end of historical projections and is processing more development applications than ever before.

Here are the key facts the City has shared:

• The recommended area: The City's Growth Management Study, completed in mid-2026, identifies a recommended annexation area to the south and southeast totaling 2,209 hectares of developable land. The City says this area aligns with its long-term land needs through 2077 and is smaller and more focused than the area first proposed.

• Growing inside first: The City says it will continue to develop land within its existing boundary first and is planning for infill, but there isn't enough vacant and underutilized land in the city for all of its growth needs.

• The budget for the work: The City has budgeted $2.2 million for technical studies, engagement with residents and impacted landowners, and working with Leduc County.

• For landowners in the area: Owners will continue to use their land in the same manner, subject to City bylaws, and annexation doesn't force anyone to develop their property. Landowners whose land is identified will receive a letter from the City about the process.

• How residents can take part: Residents are invited to take part in engagement opportunities throughout the process, with details to be shared on the City's website and social media.

You can read the City's Growth Management Study summary findings for more background.

What is planned for the West Leduc Recreation Centre?

The West Leduc Recreation Centre project is a multi-year plan to expand sport and recreation amenities for residents and the surrounding area. Land for the future recreation campus was secured in the Crystal Creek area, immediately south of Ohpaho Secondary School. The City says the project is meant to complement existing facilities like the Leduc Recreation Centre and address long-term needs driven by population growth.

On May 4, 2026, City Council prioritized the major amenities:

• Phase 1: A fieldhouse with unboarded turf and a twin arena

• Phase 2: An aquatic centre

• Still to be decided: Whether a gymnasium will be part of Phase 2 or addressed at the Leduc Recreation Centre instead

Council also prioritized supplemental amenities, including a climbing gym, multi-use program space, a track, a spray park, a skateboard park, a fitness centre and leisure ice. The City will try to include as many as possible in Phase 1, based on Council's priorities and costs.

For the first time, the City is using an Integrated Project Delivery model, where the City, architect, general contractor, engineers, trades and suppliers all share a single contract. Here's the City's current timeline:

• 2026 to 2027: Concept design and site planning

• 2027: Council decision to proceed and detailed design

• 2028: Construction is anticipated to begin, taking two to three years to complete

What property tax dates should Beaumont homeowners know?

The City of Beaumont's property tax page lists two fall dates:

• Outstanding 2026 property taxes were due Oct. 31, and an additional 3% penalty is added on Nov. 1.

• Supplementary Assessments and Tax Notices were set to be sent by the end of October. Payment is due by Nov. 30, 2026, and a 6% penalty is added on Dec. 1.

The same page also explains, step by step, how property taxes are calculated in Beaumont.

What free winter activities can families enjoy in Beaumont?

Beaumont has plenty of free activities for the colder months:

• Outdoor skating: Choose from three boarded rinks, five grass rinks, a Skate Trail and pond skating on Don Sparrow Lake.

• Tobogganing: Head to Church hill or Parc Saint Vital Park.

• Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing: Try Parc Quatre Saisons/Four Seasons Park.

• Ice fishing: At Parc Quatre Saisons/Four Seasons Park and Don Sparrow Lake.

• Indoors: Public skating runs at the Ken Nichol Regional Recreation Centre arena from September to March.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much land is Leduc proposing to annex?
The City's Growth Management Study identifies a recommended annexation area to the south and southeast totaling 2,209 hectares of developable land, aligned with Leduc's long-term land needs through 2077.

Will annexation force landowners to develop their land?
No. According to the City of Leduc, owners within the annexation area will continue to use their land in the same manner, subject to City bylaws, and annexation doesn't force landowners to develop their property.

What will be built first at the West Leduc Recreation Centre?
Council placed a fieldhouse with unboarded turf and a twin arena in Phase 1, with an aquatic centre in Phase 2.

When could construction start on the West Leduc Recreation Centre?
The City's timeline shows construction anticipated to begin in 2028, after a Council decision to proceed and detailed design in 2027.

When are Beaumont's supplementary property tax notices due?
Payment is due by Nov. 30, 2026, and a 6% penalty is added on Dec. 1.

Enjoy the Start of November, Neighbours!

It's exciting to see both communities planning for the years ahead. Wishing everyone a cozy first week of November in Leduc and Beaumont.

Keith Lopushinsky, REALTOR®, RE/MAX Real Estate

Questions about buying or selling in Leduc or Beaumont? Reach out to Keith Lopushinsky, RE/MAX Real Estate.