Council Highlights December 12, 2023

Video and minutes

• Lethbridge City Council received confirmation from the Government of Alberta that they have declined our request to provide capital funding to support the Lethbridge and District Exhibition’s Agri-food Hub & Trade Centre. The City’s financial support for this emergency funding request was conditional on receiving a commitment from the Province prior to December 11, 2023. Without this commitment, the original resolution Council approved on November 28 has died and Council will be reviewing next steps. Despite this development, City Council and administration continue to explore ways to collaborate with the Exhibition and the province to ensure the continuity and sustainability of the Agri-food Hub & Trade Centre. Read Mayor Hyggen’s full statement here
• Council received an update on the repurposing review of the Main, North, South and West pavilions as well as Heritage Hall and Safety City buildings located on the Exhibition grounds. Although a detailed analysis of the study is not fully complete, the initial information indicates the building structures and foundations are generally sound. However, approximately $1.6 million would be required to replace essential components in the next five years to address maintenance deficits and age-related needs. Examples include HVAC systems, roofs, windows, siding, electrical distribution systems and emergency systems. An additional $6.4 million investment would be required for less critical needs including parking lot resurfacing and lighting as well as replacement of flooring and plumbing fixtures. Over the next six to 25 years, the buildings would require further investment in upkeep and renewal estimated at $30 million. This does not include any costs to repurpose these old facilities. Read the full news release here
• Council voted to approve Terms of Reference for the Downtown Lawlessness Reduction (DLR) Task Force. They were developed in collaboration with all members (representatives from City Council, City Administration, the Downtown BRZ, Lethbridge Fire and EMS and the Lethbridge Police Service). The Task Force as a sub-committee reporting through the Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee (SPC). With Council’s approval, the DLR Task Force will be active for the duration of 2024, with it reviewed prior to December 31, 2024. When required, recommendations from the Task Force would proceed through the SPC for formal adoption by City Council. The Terms of Reference does not in itself have financial implications; however, financial requests could be forthcoming as the DLR Task Force proceeds with identifying and recommending initiatives that support their mandate. Read the full news release here
• City Manager presented City Council and Administration 2023 Accomplishments. Watch the video here
• Council voted unanimously in favour on second and third readings to Bylaw 6426 - 2024 Incentives for Prepayments, Penalty and Tax Deferral Bylaw. Read the PSA here
• Council voted unanimously in favour on second and third readings to Bylaw 6428 – Increase of Parking Fines/Traffic Bylaw Amendment. Read the background news release, which explains the coming changes (effective February 1, 2024), as well new incentives, here
• Following a Public Hearing, Council voted unanimously in favour on second and third readings to Bylaw 6413 – Land Use Bylaw Amendment 2402 2 Ave N
• Following a Public Hearing, Council voted unanimously in favour on second and third readings to Bylaw 6423 – Amendment to Bylaw 5115 – The Specialist Offices Plan re: 1624 9 Avenue South
• Following a Public Hearing, Council voted unanimously in favour on second and third readings to Bylaw 6424 – Land Use Bylaw Amendment re: 1624 9 Avenue South
• Council issued its decision regarding Appeal of Order to Remedy Contravention of the Keeping of Wild of Domestic Animals Bylaw. It can be viewed here
• The following items were approved with Consent Agenda: Standing Resolution Annual Update: Creating a Diverse and Inclusive Workforce, Sponsorship, Naming Rights, Advertising (CC70) Policy Updates and Requesting Approval to Amendments to Council Policy CC26 Community Capital Projects Grant
• Council called a Special Meeting for Monday, December 18 at 9 a.m.