In a decision reflecting ongoing efforts toward reconciliation, St. Albert City Council has voted to rename the Grandin neighbourhood to The Gardens. The motion to remove the Grandin name passed with a 5-2 vote, followed by a 6-1 vote in favour of the new designation.
The initiative to rename the neighbourhood stemmed from concerns over Bishop Vital Grandin’s historical role in establishing the residential school system, which has left a lasting impact on Indigenous communities. The city’s Naming Committee recommended the change, citing the association of the Grandin name with a system that caused significant harm and intergenerational trauma.
Public engagement played a crucial role in the renaming process. The city conducted surveys and consultations, receiving 335 responses and reviewing 94 individual name suggestions. ‘The Gardens’ emerged as the most frequently proposed name, aligning with St. Albert’s identity as the ‘Botanical Arts City’ and continuing the tradition of neighbourhood names starting with the letter ‘G.’
However, the decision has not been without controversy. Some residents expressed frustration over the renaming process, citing concerns about erasing history and questioning the effectiveness of public consultations. A petition titled ‘Fight for Grandin’ was launched, reflecting a segment of the community’s desire to retain the original name.
The city has committed to implementing the name change by September 1, 2025, with an estimated cost of approximately $18,600 for updating signage and related municipal assets.
