Lethbridge public meetings in 2024

Safety And Social Standing Policy Committee

The Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee meeting scheduled for December 19, 2024, has been cancelled because there are no agenda items to discuss.

Governance Standing Policy Committee

The Governance Standing Policy Committee will adopt its agenda and approve the consent items, which include the minutes from the November 28 meeting and the status of directed resolutions. The committee will then hear a series of presentations and submissions covering policy reviews and reports. Topics include the Asset Management Policy, council policy rescindments, the Oldman Watershed Council report, and the 2024 Combative Sports Commission report.

• Review of Boards, Commissions and Committees
• CC‑68 Asset Management Policy presentation
• Council Policy Rescindments discussion
• Oldman Watershed Council Report
• 2024 Combative Sports Commission Report

The Governance Standing Policy Committee recommended a broad restructuring of the City's boards, commissions, and committees (BCCs), including transitioning several committees to administrative status, creating a new quasi-judicial appeal board, and reducing board sizes. It also recommended adopting an updated Asset Management Policy, rescinding ten outdated council policies, and continuing support for the Oldman Watershed Council. All recommendations are subject to final approval by City Council.

• Recommended BCC overhaul: transition Historic Places, Reconciliation Lethbridge, Heart of Our City to administrative committees; create Community Requirements Appeal Board; reduce board sizes (carried)
• Recommended allowing Animal Welfare Committee to continue until Q4 2025 (carried 2-1)
• Recommended holding disbandment of Joint Committee with School Boards; report back in February (carried 2-1)
• Recommended transitioning Youth Advisory Council to working group; referred to Administration for more info (carried 2-1)
• Recommended creating a youth portal for engagement (carried)
• Recommended establishing regular elected officials' meetings with partners (carried)
• Recommended adopting CC-68 Asset Management Policy with intangible assets definition (carried)
• Recommended rescinding 10 council policies including Risk Management, Social Policy, and Encroachment (carried)

City Council

Lethbridge City Council will discuss various administrative reports, including the Lethbridge Police Service Master Plan and a third-party review of the Lethbridge and District Exhibition. The meeting includes a public hearing for several land use and redevelopment plan amendments. Council will also consider bylaws regarding taxes, fees, and elections.

• Public hearings for land use amendments at 404, 408 12 Street South; 524, 528, 532 13 Street South; 537, 539, 543 13 Street South; and 605 5 Street South & 510 6 Avenue South
• Bylaw 6470: 2025 Incentives for Prepayment, Penalties, and Tax Deferral Bylaw
• Bylaw 6473: Election Bylaw
• Bylaw 6471: Downtown Business Improvement Area Tax Bylaw
• Lethbridge Police Service Master Plan recommendation

City Council approved a $4.1 million annual operating budget increase for the Lethbridge and District Exhibition for 2025-2026, funded through a deferred tax increase, and directed administration to refinance the LDE loan, including transferring facility ownership to the City and forgiving the outstanding loan. Council also approved several other items, including adding four EMS positions, opting into Extended Producer Responsibility, and adopting the Lethbridge Police Service Master Plan in principle. A motion to disband standing policy committees was postponed to January 21, 2025.

• Approved $4.1M annual LDE operating budget for 2025-2026 (6-2)
• Approved LDE loan refinancing: transfer ownership, forgive loan, repay province (unanimous)
• Approved 4 new EMS FTE positions funded by AHS contract (unanimous)
• Approved opt-in to Extended Producer Responsibility from April 1, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adopted Lethbridge Police Service Master Plan in principle (unanimous)
• Approved $3.8M Reaching Home homelessness funding for 2024-2028 (unanimous)
• Approved first reading of Bylaw 6454 (Integrity Commissioner) but referred to solicitor (unanimous)
• Postponed second/third reading of six land use bylaws to Jan 21, 2025 (unanimous)

Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force will meet to discuss transitioning into an administrative committee. The agenda includes reviewing minutes from the previous meeting and presenting information. The meeting is scheduled for Thursday, December 12, 2024, at 7:30 AM in the City Council Chamber.

• Review minutes from October 31, 2024
• Discussion on transitioning to an administrative committee
• Public participation welcome for listed items

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force voted to follow City Council's direction and transition to an administrative committee. All future meetings as a subcommittee of the Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee are cancelled, and official meetings will begin as an administrative committee in February 2025. The motion was carried unanimously.

• Adopted agenda as presented (carried)
• Approved minutes of October 31, 2024 meeting (carried)
• Transitioned to administrative committee, cancelling future subcommittee meetings (carried unanimously)

Economic And Finance Standing Policy Committee

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Economic and Finance Standing Policy Committee for December 12, 2024, has been cancelled.

City Council

Lethbridge City Council will review committee reports, approve bylaws for fees and elections, and hold a public hearing on land use amendments for properties on 12th and 13th Streets South.

• Bylaw 6470: 2025 Incentives for Prepayment, Penalties, and Tax Deferral
• Bylaw 6473: Election Bylaw
• Bylaw 6459: Land Use Bylaw Amendment re: 404, 408 12 Street South
• Bylaw 6460: Amendment to London Road Area Redevelopment Plan re: 524, 528, 532 - 13 St S
• Bylaw 6464: Amendment to London Road Area Redevelopment Plan re: 605 - 5 St S & 510 - 6 Ave S

Council approved a $4.1 million annual operating budget increase for the Lethbridge and District Exhibition for 2025-2026, funded through a deferred tax increase, and approved refinancing the LDE loan, including transferring facility ownership to the City and forgiving the outstanding loan. Council also approved several other items, including adding four EMS positions, opting into Extended Producer Responsibility, and adopting the Lethbridge Police Service Master Plan in principle. The consent agenda was initially defeated but later approved after reconsideration.

• Approved $4.1M annual LDE operating budget for 2025-2026 (6-2)
• Approved LDE loan refinancing, including facility transfer and loan forgiveness (unanimous)
• Approved 4 new EMS FTE positions (unanimous)
• Approved opt-in to Extended Producer Responsibility starting April 1, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adopted Lethbridge Police Service Master Plan in principle (unanimous)
• Approved $3.8M Reaching Home homelessness funding (unanimous)
• Approved first reading of Animal Care and Control Bylaw 6475 (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 public member appointments to boards and commissions (6-1)

Assets And Infrastructure Standing Policy Committee

The Assets & Infrastructure Standing Policy Committee will elect a chair and vice‑chair, adopt the agenda, and approve the minutes from the October 3 meeting. It will receive a presentation on the Country Meadows Outline Plan Amendment, an update on the 10 Avenue South / 9 Avenue South Functional Planning Study, and a status report on the Cart Relocation Project. The committee will also consider the status of directed resolutions for the day.

• Country Meadows Outline Plan Amendment presentation
• 10 Avenue South / 9 Avenue South Functional Planning Study progress update
• Cart Relocation Project update
• Election of Chair and Vice‑Chair
• Adoption of agenda and approval of minutes

The Assets and Infrastructure Standing Policy Committee recommended Council approve an amended Land Use Concept for the Country Meadows Outline Plan, replacing the 2019 version. It also received progress updates on the 10 Avenue South/9 Avenue South functional planning study and the waste cart relocation project. All decisions were carried unanimously with Councillor Schmidt-Rempel absent.

• Recommended Council approve amended Land Use Concept 2024 for Country Meadows Outline Plan (carried)
• Recommended Council receive 10 Avenue South/9 Avenue South Functional Planning Study Progress Update (carried)
• Recommended Council receive Waste and Recycling Cart Relocation Project Update (carried)
• Approved minutes of October 3, 2024 meeting (carried)
• Received Status of Directed Resolutions as information (carried)
• Elected Councillor Campbell as Chair by acclamation
• Elected Councillor Crowson as Vice-Chair by acclamation

Audit Standing Policy Committee

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Audit Standing Policy Committee for December 4, 2024, has been cancelled.

Governance Standing Policy Committee

The Governance Standing Policy Committee will hear a presentation on the proposed 2025 election bylaw and the financial impact of Alberta’s Provincial Bill 20. It will also review the public‑engagement plan for Phase Two of the Land‑Use Bylaw renewal and consider an amendment to the Council Code of Conduct (Bylaw 6454). Additional items include a submission on council succession planning and a discussion on workload and resourcing for elected officials.

• Presentation on 2025 Election – Replacement Election Bylaw and Provincial Bill 20 impacts (Attachments 1‑4)
• Presentation on Land Use Bylaw Renewal Phase Two Public Engagement Plan (Attachments listed)
• Presentation on Amendment to Bylaw 6215 – Council Code of Conduct (Bylaw 6454)
• Submission on Succession Planning for Council by CFO and Treasurer
• Discussion on Workload, Expectations and Resourcing for Elected Officials

The Governance Standing Policy Committee recommended that City Council give three readings to Election Bylaw 6473 at its December 10, 2024 meeting, and also recommended approving the Land Use Bylaw Phase II Public Engagement Plan. The committee recommended first reading of Bylaw 6454 to amend the Council Code of Conduct to include an Integrity Commissioner, with a budget report due in Q2 2025. It also approved an amendment to the Council Remuneration and Benefits Policy for succession planning, with funding from the existing operating budget, over one opposing vote.

• Recommended Council give three readings to Election Bylaw 6473 (carried)
• Recommended Council approve Land Use Bylaw Phase II Public Engagement Plan (carried)
• Recommended first reading of Bylaw 6454 to amend Council Code of Conduct to include Integrity Commissioner, except clause 2(x) (carried)
• Referred Integrity Commissioner budget development to Administration, report due Q2 2025 (carried)
• Recommended removal of Council Post-Employment policy item from Status of Directed Resolutions (carried)
• Directed closed meeting documents on Bylaw 6454 remain confidential under FOIP Sections 24 and 27 (carried)
• Approved amendment to CC-10 Council Remuneration and Benefits Policy for succession planning, funding from existing operating budget (2-1, Crowson opposed)
• Postponed discussion on workload, expectations, and resourcing for elected officials to a future meeting with Council Orientation (carried)

Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force

The scheduled meeting of the Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force on November 28, 2024 was cancelled by Chair Hunter Heggie. No agenda items were presented, so no decisions or discussions will take place at this meeting.

Economic And Finance Standing Policy Committee

The Economic and Finance Standing Policy Committee will consider a presentation by Deloitte LLP on a third‑party review of the Lethbridge & District Exhibition Phase One, followed by an administration update from CFO Darrell Mathews. The meeting also includes adoption of the agenda, a consent agenda with minutes and a status of directed initiatives, and public comment after the presentations.

• 5.1.1 – Deloitte LLP presentation on the third‑party review of the Lethbridge & District Exhibition Phase One
• 5.1.2 – Darrell Mathews, CFO and Treasurer, administration presentation
• 4.1 – Adoption of minutes from 2024‑11‑13 Economic & Finance Standing Policy Committee
• 4.2 – Status of Directed Initiatives
• Public may speak after items 5.1.1 and 5.1.2

The Economic and Finance Standing Policy Committee recommended that City Council direct administration to develop a business plan for a municipally controlled corporation to consolidate event attraction, work with the LDE Board and Provincial Government on governance, and explore new event attraction models. It also recommended referring LDE capital projects to the 2027-2030 CIP, and referred operating budget increases (including a 2.24% tax increase for 2025) and loan refinancing options to administration for further exploration and presentation at the December 10, 2024 Council meeting. Additionally, the committee passed a motion to recommend policy changes to protect the city from financial risk in community organization funding.

• Approved motion to recommend directing administration to develop business plan for municipally controlled corporation for event attraction (carried)
• Approved referral of LDE capital projects (demolition of Old Pavilions except West Pavilion, parking lot reconstruction) to 2027-2030 CIP (carried)
• Referred recommendations 3, 4, 5 (operating budget, FTEs, tax increase) to administration for options (carried, 6-2)
• Referred recommendation 6 (LDE loan refinancing) to administration for December 10 Council meeting (carried)
• Approved motion to recommend policy changes to protect city from financial risk in community organization funding (carried)

Economic And Finance Standing Policy Committee

The Economic and Finance Standing Policy Committee will adopt the agenda, review the minutes from the November 13 meeting, and consider the status of directed initiatives. It will hear a third‑party review presentation by Deloitte LLP on the Lethbridge & District Exhibition Phase One, followed by an administration presentation from CFO Darrell Mathews. No decisions are listed; the items are for presentation and discussion.

• 5.1.1 Deloitte LLP – Third Party Review Presentation on the Exhibition
• 5.1.2 Darrell Mathews, CFO – Administration Presentation
• 4.1 Adoption of the agenda minutes from 2024‑11‑13
• 4.2 Status of Directed Initiatives
• 5.1 Lethbridge & District Exhibition – Phase One & Third Party Review

The Economic and Finance Standing Policy Committee recommended that City Council direct administration to develop a business plan for a municipally controlled corporation for event attraction, work with the LDE Board and Province on governance, and explore new event models. It also referred LDE capital projects (demolition of Old Pavilions except West Pavilion, parking lot reconstruction) to 2027-2030 CIP deliberations. Recommendations 3-5 (operating budget increases, 4 FTEs, 2.24% tax increase) and recommendation 6 (loan refinancing) were referred to administration for further options, to be presented at the December 10, 2024 Council meeting. The committee also passed a motion to recommend policy changes to protect the city from financial risk in community organization funding.

• Approved agenda as amended with Deloitte presentation (8-0)
• Approved consent agenda: Nov 13 minutes and Status of Initiatives (8-0)
• Recommended Council direct City Manager to return Dec 10 with LDE review plan (8-0)
• Recommended policy amendments to protect city from financial risk in community funding (8-0)
• Carried motion to direct administration on event attraction corporation, LDE governance, new models (8-0)
• Referred LDE capital items (Old Pavilions demolition, parking lot) to 2027-2030 CIP (8-0)
• Referred recommendations 3-5 (operating budget, FTEs, tax increase) to administration for options (6-2)
• Referred recommendation 6 (LDE loan refinancing) to administration for Dec 10 report (8-0)

City Council

City Council is meeting to conduct annual budget reviews and consider several amendments to utility and fee bylaws. The session includes updates on the Encampment Strategy Council and responses to inquiries regarding secondary suites and city hiring.

• Annual Budget Reviews
• Bylaw 6470: 2025 Incentives for Prepayment, Penalties, and Tax Deferral
• Bylaw 6466: Electric Distribution Tariff - 2025
• Bylaw 6456: Water Service Bylaw - 2025
• Bylaw 6457: Sewerage Service Charge Bylaw - 2025

City Council approved a 3% cost-of-living adjustment for administration wages for 2025 and 2026, and narrowed the scope of annual budget reviews to exclude mid-cycle budget reopenings. Several utility and fee bylaws were amended, and the encampment strategy report was received as information.

• Approved 3% COLA for administration for 2025 and 2026 (7-0, Parker absent)
• Approved motion to limit annual budget review scope, deferring other budget requests to next four-year budget (8-0)
• Gave third reading to Waste Bylaw amendment (Bylaw 6455) (8-0)
• Gave third reading to Electric Distribution Tariff amendment (Bylaw 6466) as amended (8-0)
• Gave third reading to Water Service Bylaw amendment (Bylaw 6456) (8-0)
• Gave third reading to Sewerage Service Charge Bylaw amendment (Bylaw 6457) (8-0)
• Gave first reading to Rate of Last Resort Bylaw 6474, with second/third reading set for Dec 10 (8-0)
• Received encampment strategy report as information (8-0)

Safety And Social Standing Policy Committee

The Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee will meet to elect its leadership and review several presentations. The body will discuss updates to animal control regulations and the Lethbridge Police Service Master Plan.

• Presentation on Animal Care and Control Bylaw 6475
• Submission regarding the Lethbridge Police Service Master Plan
• Presentation by Southern Alberta Crime Stoppers
• Election of Committee Chair and Vice-Chair

The Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee elected Councillor Parker as Chair and Councillor Campbell as Vice-Chair. It recommended Council adopt the Lethbridge Police Service Master Plan in principle, with future capital and operating items to go through standard budget processes. The committee also recommended first reading of Animal Care and Control Bylaw 6475 on December 10, 2024, and second/third reading on January 21, 2025. A $10,000 funding request from Southern Alberta Crime Stoppers was referred to City Council for consideration.

• Elected Councillor Parker as Chair and Councillor Campbell as Vice-Chair by acclamation
• Adopted agenda and approved July 18, 2024 minutes (3-0)
• Referred $10,000 funding request from Southern Alberta Crime Stoppers to City Council (3-0)
• Recommended Council give first reading to Animal Care and Control Bylaw 6475 on Dec 10, 2024 (3-0)
• Recommended Council adopt Lethbridge Police Service Master Plan in principle (3-0)
• Directed Police Service and Commission to return to Council for budget approvals (3-0)

Economic And Finance Standing Policy Committee

The Economic and Finance Standing Policy Committee will adopt the agenda and consent items, then hear presentations on the city’s economic update, the September operating forecast, and an introduction to the 2024 annual budget review. It will consider several submissions, including amendments to fee and safety code bylaws, budget initiatives, a local growth grant application, and amendments to the Water and Wastewater 2022‑2031 Capital Improvement Program. Additional items cover community safety staffing, graffiti abatement, library funding, and exhibition partnership updates.

• Presentation: Economic Update and 2024 September Operating Forecast by CFO Darrell Mathews
• Presentation: Introduction to Annual Budget Review
• Submission: Bylaw 6467 – amendment to Bylaw 5197 (Fees and Charges Bylaw)
• Submission: Bylaw 6468 – amendment to Bylaw 6110 (Safety Codes Permit Bylaw)
• Submission: Amendment to Water and Wastewater 2022‑2031 Capital Improvement Program (E‑26 & E‑27)

The Economic and Finance Standing Policy Committee forwarded all agenda items to the December 10, 2024 Council meeting. It recommended adding four Full-Time Equivalent positions for EMS supervisors, funded by the Alberta Health Services contract increase. The committee also approved an omnibus motion covering multiple recommendations, including funding for the Make your Mark grant program, continuation of several operating budget initiatives, and amendments to capital projects. A confidential discussion on the Lethbridge & District Exhibition was held and will be presented publicly at a later meeting.

• Recommended adding 4 FTE EMS supervisor positions funded by AHS contract increase (carried)
• Forwarded all agenda items to December 10, 2024 Council meeting (carried)
• Approved omnibus motion including Make your Mark grant framework with up to $600,000 funding (carried)
• Recommended removing conditions for C-10, N-15, N-31, N-32, N-44 operating budget initiatives (carried)
• Recommended amending CIP projects E-26 (to $7.8M) and E-27 (to $3.6M) (carried)
• Recommended approving tax cancellation of $879.68 for 2421 20 St N (carried)
• Recommended approving Community Safety Coordinator two-year term ($122,500/$123,000) (carried)
• Recommended denying graffiti abatement request from Downtown BRZ for 2025-2026 (carried)

Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force

The scheduled meeting for November 14, 2024, was cancelled. The notice states there was a lack of agenda items as the Task Force awaits further instruction from Council.

Economic And Finance Standing Policy Committee

The Economic and Finance Standing Policy Committee will hear presentations on the city’s 2024 annual budget review and September operating forecast. It will consider amendments to the Fees and Charges Bylaw and the Safety Codes Permit Bylaw. The committee will also review proposed amendments to the Water and Wastewater 2022‑2031 Capital Improvement Program (E‑26 & E‑27). Additional items include grant applications and operating budget initiatives.

• Presentation: Economic Update and 2024 September Operating Forecast (annual budget review)
• Amendment to Bylaw 5197 – Fees and Charges Bylaw (Bylaw 6467)
• Amendment to Bylaw 6110 – Safety Codes Permit Bylaw (Bylaw 6468)
• Water and Wastewater 2022‑2031 Capital Improvement Program amendments E‑26 & E‑27
• Local Growth & Sustainability Grant Application

The Economic and Finance Standing Policy Committee forwarded several recommendations to Council, including adding four Full-Time Equivalent positions for EMS supervisors, funded by the Alberta Health Services contract increase. It also approved an omnibus motion covering various budget initiatives, grant applications, and a tax refund request. The committee recommended denying the graffiti abatement request from the Downtown BRZ and referring the issue to Administration. All votes were carried, with no recorded opposition except on the confidentiality motion.

• Recommended adding 4 FTE EMS supervisor positions, funded by AHS contract increase (carried)
• Approved omnibus motion covering items 6.3, 7.3-7.15, including Make your Mark grant framework with up to $600,000 funding (carried)
• Recommended amending CIP for E-26 WWTP upgrades from $4.2M to $7.8M and E-27 Water Treatment Plant from $2.8M to $3.6M (carried)
• Recommended approving tax cancellation of $879.68 for 2421 20 St N (carried)
• Recommended denying graffiti abatement request from Downtown BRZ for 2025-2026 (carried)
• Recommended approving Community Safety Coordinator two-year term position funded from reserves (carried)
• Recommended approving N-34 and N-66 Operating Budget initiatives for Chinook Arch Regional Library (carried)
• Directed that Lethbridge & District Exhibition closed meeting discussions remain confidential, with public presentation at Nov 27 meeting (carried, 7-2)

City Council

City Council is reviewing several master plans, including waste management and the Japanese Garden, and considering a new bicycle bylaw. The meeting includes a public hearing regarding a land use bylaw amendment for 804 6 Street South.

• Public hearing for Bylaw 6458: Land Use Bylaw Amendment for 804 6 Street South
• Bicycle Bylaw 6427 (2nd and 3rd reading)
• 2024 Japanese Garden Master Plan recommendation
• Waste Management Master Plan recommendation
• Land Use Bylaw amendments for 404-408 12 Street South and 524-532 13 Street South

City Council approved a new collective agreement for CUPE Local 70 and passed a new Water Conservation Policy. Council also adopted master plans for the Japanese Garden and Waste Management in principle and gave first reading to several land use bylaws.

• Ratified 4-year CUPE Local 70 agreement with wage increases from 2.50% to 3.00% (7-0)
• Adopted CC-83: Water Conservation Policy (9-0)
• Adopted 2024 Japanese Garden Master Plan in principle (9-0)
• Adopted Waste Management Master Plan in principle (9-0)
• Approved Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force recommendations in principle (9-0)
• Passed Bicycle Bylaw 6427 (9-0)
• Postponed Remembrance Day crosswalk project until Q3 2025 (9-0)
• Granted first reading to Bylaws 6459, 6460, 6461, 6462, 6464, and 6465 (9-0)

Assets And Infrastructure Standing Policy Committee

The regularly scheduled meeting for November 7, 2024, has been cancelled due to a lack of agenda items.

Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force will meet to discuss a Governance Standing Policy Committee decision and receive a verbal update on downtown policing.

• Verbal update on downtown policing
• Discussion regarding Governance Standing Policy Committee decision
• Approval of minutes from the October 17, 2024 meeting

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force adopted its agenda and approved the minutes from the October 17, 2024 meeting. It also voted to relocate the November 14, 2024 meeting from the Council Chamber to the Culver City Room to accommodate budget discussions. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included a verbal update on downtown policing.

• Adopted agenda as amended (6-0, 1 absent)
• Approved minutes of October 17, 2024 meeting (6-0, 1 absent)
• Changed November 14, 2024 meeting location to Culver City Room (6-0, 1 absent)

Special Meeting Of City Council

The special council meeting on October 24, 2024 will consist of standard procedural matters. Items include roll call, a call to order, an acknowledgment statement, a closed‑agenda labour negotiations update (FOIP Section 24), and adjournment. No public agenda items or decisions were listed.

• Roll call
• Call to order
• Acknowledgment statement
• Labour negotiations update (FOIP Section 24) – closed agenda
• Adjournment

The special meeting was held to discuss a labour negotiations update in a closed session under FOIP Section 24. Council voted to enter the closed meeting, adjourn it, and keep the discussions confidential. No substantive decisions were made in open session.

• Entered closed meeting for labour negotiations update (carried)
• Adjourned closed meeting (carried)
• Kept closed meeting discussions confidential under FOIP Section 24 (carried)

Governance Standing Policy Committee

The Governance Standing Policy Committee is meeting to discuss updates to the Council Code of Conduct and review several city master plans. The body will also hear presentations on student retention and downtown lawlessness reduction.

• Bylaw 6454: Amendment to Bylaw 6215 - Council Code of Conduct
• Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden Master Plan 2024
• Waste Management Master Plan
• CC-83 Water Conservation Policy
• Review of Boards, Commissions and Committees

The Governance Standing Policy Committee recommended Council adopt the 2024 Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden Master Plan and the Waste Management Master Plan as guiding documents, with future capital and operating items to go through budget deliberations. It also recommended approving the Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force recommendations, including creating an administrative committee and funding a Community Safety Coordinator, and adopted the new CC-83 Water Conservation Policy. Several items were postponed to later meetings.

• Recommended adopting 2024 Japanese Garden Master Plan in principle (carried)
• Recommended adopting Waste Management Master Plan in principle (carried)
• Recommended approving Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force recommendations and disbanding task force (carried)
• Recommended funding two-year Community Safety Coordinator position (carried)
• Adopted CC-83 Water Conservation Policy (carried)
• Postponed Bylaw 6454 Council Code of Conduct amendment to Nov 28 (carried)
• Postponed Review of Boards, Commissions and Committees to Dec 17 (carried)
• Postponed Government Relations & Advocacy Update to Dec 17 (carried)

City Council

City Council is meeting to handle administrative and organizational tasks. The body will discuss appointments to boards and committees and establish the 2025 meeting calendar.

• Administrative appointments to boards, commissions, and committees of Council and external committees
• 2025 Council and Standing Policy Committee meeting calendar
• Council member appointments to boards, commissions, and committees (confidential report)

Lethbridge City Council adopted the meeting agenda, appointed administration members to external and internal boards for 2025, and approved the 2025 Council and Standing Policy Committee Meeting Calendar. Following a closed session under FOIP Section 24, Council also approved internal and external board and committee appointments for individual members of Council.

• Adopted the October 22, 2024 agenda (9-0)
• Appointed Travis Grindle to the Combative Sports Commission and Doug Kaupp to the Oldman Watershed Council for one-year terms effective January 1, 2025 (9-0)
• Adopted the 2025 Council and Standing Policy Committee Meeting Calendar (9-0)
• Entered into a closed meeting under FOIP Section 24 (8-1)
• Adopted Nominating Committee recommendations for internal and external Council member appointments (9-0)

City Council

City Council is reviewing recommendations for 2025 water, sewer, and electric distribution tariffs. The body will also discuss a new bicycle bylaw, a transportation safety plan update, and affordable housing tax grants.

• Bicycle Bylaw 6427
• Bylaw 6466: Electric Distribution Tariff - 2025
• Bylaw 6457: Sewerage Service Charge Bylaw - 2025
• Bylaw 6456: Water Service Bylaw - 2025
• Bylaw 6455: Amendment to the Waste Bylaw

City Council approved a confidential option for labour negotiations and extended the funding deadline for the Streets Alive Mission project to June 30, 2025. Council also gave first reading to several bylaw amendments and directed fee-for-service reviews for Economic Development Lethbridge and Tourism Lethbridge.

• Approved confidential option #2 for labour negotiations (6-1, with 2 absent)
• Extended Streets Alive Mission funding deadline to June 30, 2025
• Denied tax cancellation requests totaling $21,389.22 for 519 and 521 7 St S
• Gave first reading to Bicycle Bylaw 6427
• Gave first reading to Waste Bylaw amendment 6455
• Gave first reading to Electric Distribution Tariff Bylaw 6466
• Gave first reading to Sewerage Service Charge Bylaw 6457
• Gave first reading to Water Service Bylaw 6456

Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force is meeting to review updates to its Terms of Reference. The body will also receive a verbal update regarding a graffiti abatement strategy.

• Update to the Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force Terms of Reference
• Verbal update from Sarah Amies (Executive Director, DBRZ) on the Graffiti Abatement Strategy

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force approved the agenda and the minutes from its October 3, 2024 meeting. It directed the Clerk to revise the draft Terms of Reference based on discussions and return with a new draft for further consideration. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted meeting agenda (6-0, Sheri Kain absent)
• Approved minutes of October 3, 2024 meeting (6-0, Sheri Kain absent)
• Directed Clerk to edit draft Terms of Reference and return with revised draft (7-0)

Safety And Social Standing Policy Committee

The City of Lethbridge Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday, October 17, 2024 has been cancelled. The cancellation notice was signed by Chair Councillor John Middleton-Hope on October 3, 2024. No agenda items or decisions are pending for this meeting.

Economic And Finance Standing Policy Committee

The Economic and Finance Standing Policy Committee is discussing updates to water, wastewater, and electric utility tariffs for 2025. The body is also reviewing a non-profit affordable housing tax grant program and a graffiti abatement proposal.

• Bylaw 6466: 2025 Electric Distribution Tariff amendment
• Bylaw 6457: 2025 Sewerage Service Charge Bylaw amendment
• Bylaw 6456: 2025 Water Service Bylaw amendment
• Non-Profit Affordable Housing Tax Grant Program
• Bylaw 6455: Amendment to the Waste Bylaw

The Economic and Finance Standing Policy Committee recommended City Council deny tax cancellation requests totaling $21,389.22 for two properties on 7 St S, and recommended first reading of several utility and waste bylaw amendments. It also referred funding requests for Chinook Arch Library and graffiti abatement to the November budget meeting, and recommended extending the Streets Alive Mission funding deadline to June 30, 2025.

• Recommended denying tax cancellation requests for $21,389.22 (519 and 521 7 St S) (carried)
• Recommended first reading of Bylaw 6455 (Waste Bylaw amendment) (carried)
• Recommended first reading of Bylaw 6466 (2025 Electric Distribution Tariff) (carried)
• Recommended first reading of Bylaw 6457 (Sewerage Service Charge amendment) (carried)
• Recommended first reading of Bylaw 6456 (Water Service Bylaw amendment) (carried)
• Referred Chinook Arch Library request to Nov 13 budget meeting (carried)
• Referred graffiti abatement proposal to Nov 13 budget meeting (carried)
• Recommended extending Streets Alive Mission funding deadline to June 30, 2025 (6-2, Mayor absent)

Economic And Finance Standing Policy Committee

The Economic and Finance Standing Policy Committee will conduct roll call, adopt the agenda, consider a consent agenda, hear presentations and submissions, and review a confidential item titled “Lethbridge & District Exhibition Third‑Party Review Workshop (FOIP 23, 24, 26).” No specific decisions or contracts are listed on the agenda.

• Confidential discussion: Lethbridge & District Exhibition Third‑Party Review Workshop (FOIP 23, 24, 26)
• Roll call and call to order (procedural)
• Adoption of agenda (procedural)
• Consent agenda (procedural)
• Public presentations and submissions (procedural)

The Economic and Finance Standing Policy Committee met and, after a closed session, received two confidential presentations on the Lethbridge & District Exhibition Third-Party Review. The committee referred the matter to its November 14, 2024 closed meeting and directed that discussions and presentations remain confidential under FOIP sections 23, 24, and 26. No other substantive decisions were made; the agenda was adopted and the meeting adjourned.

• Adopted the October 9, 2024 agenda (carried)
• Entered closed meeting at 9:34 A.M. to discuss confidential item 7.1 (carried)
• Adjourned closed meeting at 4:38 P.M. (carried)
• Received for information two confidential Lethbridge & District Exhibition Third-Party Review presentations (carried)
• Referred the exhibition review matter to November 14, 2024 closed meeting (carried)
• Directed that closed meeting discussions and presentations remain confidential under FOIP sections 23, 24, and 26 (carried)

City Council

The council will consider two bylaws to remove historic resource designations: one for the former Bow On Tong Building at 316‑2 Avenue South and another for the former Manie Opera Society Building at 318‑2 Avenue South. A land‑use bylaw amendment (Bylaw 6458) for the property at 804 6 Street South will also be reviewed. The meeting includes a public hearing at 3:00 PM and several council inquiries on tree replacement and e‑bikes/e‑scooters.

• Bylaw 6458 – Land Use Bylaw Amendment for 804 6 Street South
• Bylaw 6451 – Removal of historic designation for former Bow On Tong Building, 316‑2 Avenue South
• Bylaw 6452 – Removal of historic designation for former Manie Opera Society Building, 318‑2 Avenue South
• Public hearing scheduled for 3:00 PM
• Council inquiries on tree replacement program and e‑bikes/e‑scooters

City Council gave second and third reading to bylaws removing the Municipal Historic Resource designation from the former Bow On Tong Building (316-2 Avenue South) and the former Manie Opera Society Building (318-2 Avenue South), both carried with Councillor Crowson opposed. Council also gave first reading to a Land Use Bylaw amendment for 804 6 Street South and scheduled a public hearing for November 12, 2024. The meeting included a closed session for confidential matters, with decisions to keep discussions confidential and refer board appointments to the Nominating Committee.

• Removed historic designation for former Bow On Tong Building (Bylaw 6451) - carried 8-1
• Removed historic designation for former Manie Opera Society Building (Bylaw 6452) - carried 8-1
• Gave first reading to Land Use Bylaw amendment for 804 6 Street South (Bylaw 6458) - carried unanimously
• Scheduled public hearing for Bylaw 6458 on November 12, 2024 at 3:00 P.M. - carried unanimously
• Deferred Municipal Housing Strategy implementation plan to Q2 2025 - carried unanimously
• Referred board appointments to Nominating Committee for October 15, 2024 - carried unanimously
• Kept closed meeting discussions on appointments, code of conduct, and labour negotiations confidential - carried unanimously

Assets And Infrastructure Standing Policy Committee

The Assets and Infrastructure Standing Policy Committee is meeting to receive a progress update on the Transportation Safety Plan. The committee will also discuss Bicycle Bylaw 6427.

• Transportation Safety Plan Update presentation by Ahmed Ali
• Discussion of Bicycle Bylaw 6427 presented by Adam St. Amant
• Review of status of directed resolutions

The Assets and Infrastructure Standing Policy Committee recommended that Council give first reading to Bicycle Bylaw 6427 on October 22, 2024, and consider second and third reading on November 12, 2024. The committee also received the Transportation Safety Plan Update as information. The minutes of the July 4, 2024 meeting were approved, and the agenda and consent agenda were adopted.

• Adopted the agenda as presented (carried)
• Approved the July 4, 2024 minutes and received the Status of Directed Resolutions (carried)
• Recommended Council receive the Transportation Safety Plan Update as information (carried)
• Recommended Council give 1st reading to Bicycle Bylaw 6427 on Oct 22, 2024, and consider 2nd/3rd reading on Nov 12, 2024 (carried, Councillor Parker absent)

Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force will adopt its September 19 minutes, hear presentations, and consider a recommendation from Chair Hunter Heggie to the Governance Standing Policy Committee‑Community Clean and Safe Steering Committee. A confidential item containing a summary and recommendations under FOIP Section 23 will also be reviewed.

• Adopt Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force minutes (2024‑09‑19)
• Presentation segment (unspecified topics)
• Submission: recommendation to Governance Standing Policy Committee‑Community Clean and Safe Steering Committee
• Confidential summary and recommendations (FOIP Section 23)

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force approved a set of recommendations to be submitted to the Governance Standing Policy Committee. These include a funding request for a two-year Community Safety Coordinator position and the use of the Task Force's summary document as a guide for the Community Clean and Safe Strategy.

• Approved submission of Summary and Recommendations to the Governance Standing Policy Committee (5-0)
• Recommended referring funding for a two-year Community Safety Coordinator position to November 13, 2024 Budget Review Deliberations (5-0)
• Recommended that City Council approve the Task Force Summary and Recommendations as a resource for the Community Clean and Safe Strategy (5-0)
• Recommended that Council direct Administration to coordinate future work on the Community Clean and Safe Strategy with all involved parties (5-0)
• Approved sharing the Summary and Recommendations document with specific stakeholders (5-0)
• Approved minutes from September 19, 2024 (4-0)

Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force will adopt its agenda, consider a consent agenda, and review the minutes from its September 5, 2024 meeting. The committee will receive any public presentations or written submissions listed on the public agenda. The meeting will conclude with adjournment.

• Review minutes from the Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force meeting dated September 5, 2024
• Consider any public presentations or written submissions submitted for this meeting

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force met and adopted its agenda and prior minutes. It heard from four public speakers and received a graffiti removal budget update. The task force then entered a closed session and voted to keep its Summary and Recommendations document confidential, direct the clerk to share it with a strategic partner, and follow confidential direction.

• Adopted agenda with added items 7.1 and 7.2 (carried)
• Approved minutes of September 5, 2024 meeting (carried)
• Entered closed session at 7:42 AM to discuss confidential item 8.1 (carried)
• Adjourned closed session at 8:46 AM (carried)
• Kept Summary and Recommendations document confidential under FOIP Section 23 (carried)
• Directed clerk to share confidential document with strategic partner (carried)
• Directed clerk to follow confidential direction from closed session (carried)

City Council

City Council will consider land use bylaw amendments for 3690 36 Street N. and The Crossings Phase 9. The body will also discuss graffiti abatement, childcare needs, and the removal of historic resource designations for two buildings.

• Public hearing for Land Use Bylaw Amendment: 3690 36 Street N. (Bylaw 6409)
• Public hearing for Land Use Bylaw Amendment: The Crossings Phase 9 - 1205 30 St. W (Bylaw 6449)
• Bylaw 6451 to remove historic resource designation of 316 - 2 Avenue South
• Bylaw 6452 to remove historic resource designation of 318-2 Avenue South
• Bylaw 6463 to amend the Traffic Bylaw

City Council ratified a three-year collective agreement with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 254. Council also approved land use bylaw amendments for 3690 36 Street N. and The Crossings Phase 9, and passed a traffic bylaw amendment. Additionally, Council implemented a status quo resourcing plan for childcare needs while defeating a motion for additional funding.

• Ratified 3-year IBEW Local 254 collective agreement (8-0)
• Approved 3rd reading of Traffic Bylaw 6463 (9-0)
• Approved 3rd reading of Land Use Bylaw 6409 (9-0)
• Approved 3rd reading of Land Use Bylaw 6449 (8-1)
• Implemented status quo Childcare Needs Assessment (9-0)
• Defeated additional childcare funding motion (4-5)
• Approved 1st reading of historic resource designation removals (9-0)

Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force will adopt its agenda and review the minutes from its August 22 meeting. It will discuss and decide on dates for future task‑force meetings. A presentation on the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction’s Timmons Summit will be heard. A confidential Summary and Recommendations Document will be reviewed under FOIP Section 23.

• Adoption of agenda
• Review of Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force minutes – 2024‑08‑22
• Discussion of future meeting dates
• Presentation on Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction – Timmons Summit
• Confidential Summary and Recommendations Document (FOIP Section 23)

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force met and adopted its agenda with two added items, approved the minutes from the August 22, 2024 meeting, and then entered a closed session to discuss a confidential Summary and Recommendations document. The closed session discussions were kept confidential, and the clerk was directed to follow confidential instructions. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted agenda as amended to include meeting dates discussion and Timmons Summit item (5-0)
• Approved minutes of August 22, 2024 meeting (5-0)
• Entered closed session at 7:42 AM to discuss confidential item 8.1 (5-0)
• Adjourned closed session at 8:59 AM (5-0)
• Kept closed session discussions confidential and directed clerk per confidential direction (5-0)

Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force is meeting to review project updates and safety initiatives. The body will discuss recommendations to be sent to the Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee (SPC).

• Galt Gardens Landscaping Project update
• Downtown Fire Safety Brochure presentation by Deputy Fire Chief Kevin McKeown
• Discussion on recommendations to the Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee (SPC)
• Review of minutes from the 2024-07-11 meeting

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force approved its agenda and prior minutes, received updates on the Galt Gardens Landscaping Project and Downtown Fire Safety Brochure as information, and entered a closed session to discuss strategic planning recommendations. No substantive decisions were made beyond these procedural actions.

• Adopted agenda as amended (6-0)
• Approved minutes from July 11, 2024 (6-0)
• Received Galt Gardens Landscaping Project Update as information (6-0)
• Received Downtown Fire Safety Brochure Update as information (6-0)
• Entered closed session at 8:10 AM to discuss strategic planning (6-0)
• Adjourned closed session at 8:58 AM (6-0)
• Directed closed meeting discussion remain confidential (6-0)

Governance Standing Policy Committee

The Governance Standing Policy Committee is meeting to review the city's boards, commissions, and committees. The body will discuss amendments to the Council Code of Conduct and receive updates on the Physician Action Plan.

• Bylaw 6454: Proposed amendments to Council Code of Conduct Bylaw 6125
• Review of Boards, Commissions, and Committees presentation by Deputy City Clerk David Sarsfield
• Physician Action Plan Update presentation
• Succession Planning for Council Planning Policy submission by CFO Darrell Mathews
• Confidential discussion on Advocacy 101 Framework

The Governance Standing Policy Committee postponed the review of boards, commissions, and committees to October 24, 2024, to allow affected bodies to review and participate. It referred amendments to the Council Code of Conduct Bylaw back to administration for further engagement, and recommended Council advocate for a Provincial Integrity Commissioner. The committee also received the Physician Recruitment Action Plan Update as information and recommended a Q1 2025 report back.

• Postponed boards/commissions/committees review to Oct 24, 2024 (unanimous)
• Referred Bylaw 6454 code of conduct amendments to administration (unanimous)
• Recommended Council advocate for a Provincial Integrity Commissioner (unanimous)
• Received Physician Recruitment Action Plan Update as information (unanimous)
• Recommended Council direct Q1 2025 report on physician recruitment (unanimous)
• Received succession planning report as information (unanimous)
• Withdrew motion on transition allowance for Council members
• Reconsidered and received succession planning report as information (unanimous)

Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force scheduled for July 25, 2024 was cancelled. The cancellation notice cites a lack of quorum and no agenda items. No decisions or discussions took place at this meeting.

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing at 3:00 p.m. to consider four land‑use bylaw amendment items. The amendments concern 1163 Abitibi Rd W, 925 15 Street South, 3420 12 Avenue North, and the 921‑925 19 Street South area. Council will also receive committee reports and other standing policy recommendations before adjourning.

• Bylaw 6442 – Land Use Bylaw Amendment re: 1163 Abitibi Rd W
• Bylaw 6443 – Land Use Bylaw Amendment re: 925 15 Street South
• Bylaw 6444 – Land Use Bylaw Amendment re: 3420 12 Avenue N
• Bylaw 6446 – Statutory Plan Bylaw 5115 Amendment re: 921 and 925 19 Street South
• Bylaw 6447 – Land Use Bylaw Amendment re: 921 and 925 19 Street South

City Council approved a $1.25 million one-time funding allocation from the Municipal Reserve for the 2026 Memorial Cup bid, contingent on receiving the bid. Council also adopted the updated Municipal Housing Strategy in principle, directed administration to return with an implementation plan, and approved several land use and statutory plan amendments, including supportive housing at 925 15 Street South and group homes at 921/925 19 Street South. A motion to review councillor workload and compensation was defeated, but a referral to the Governance SPC was carried.

• Approved $1.25M for 2026 Memorial Cup bid (unanimous)
• Adopted Municipal Housing Strategy in principle (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning for supportive housing at 925 15 Street South (7-2)
• Approved rezoning for group homes at 921/925 19 Street South (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning at 3420 12 Avenue N (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning at 1163 Abitibi Rd W (8-1)
• Defeated motion to hire consultant for councillor workload review (2-7)
• Approved naming rights renewal for Henderson Stadium (unanimous)

Safety And Social Standing Policy Committee

The Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee will adopt its previous minutes and hear updates on the YMCA Annual Report, the Building Safer Communities Fund, and the Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force.

• Adoption of Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee minutes from June 20, 2024
• Presentation by YMCA of Lethbridge CEO on the Annual Report and Update
• Update on the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) Project
• Childcare Needs Assessment presentation
• Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force recommendations on a community clean and safe strategy and graffiti abatement

The Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee recommended one-time 2024 funding of $51,562 to extend the Graffiti Abatement Strategy zone beyond the Downtown BRZ, and to forward further funding to November budget deliberations. A motion to recommend implementing the Childcare Needs Assessment with Service Level 3 funding was defeated. A motion to accelerate the Downtown Clean and Safe Strategy and appoint the Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force as steering committee was referred to the October 24, 2024 Governance Standing Policy Committee meeting.

• Recommended $51,562 one-time 2024 funding for graffiti abatement zone expansion (carried)
• Forwarded further graffiti abatement funding to November 2024 budget deliberations (carried)
• Defeated motion to implement Childcare Needs Assessment with Service Level 3 funding ($151,000 ongoing + $50,000 one-time) (2-2)
• Referred Downtown Clean and Safe Strategy acceleration and task force steering committee motion to October 24, 2024 Governance SPC (carried 3-1)
• Adopted agenda (carried)
• Approved June 20, 2024 minutes and received status of initiatives (carried)
• Received YMCA annual report and update as information (carried)
• Received Building Safer Communities Fund project update as information (carried)

Audit Standing Policy Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss updates to Council policy priorities for Q3 2024 and financial services administrative policies. The session also includes a review of the 2024 risk and controls workplan and non-residential tax listings.

• Council Policy Priorities Updates for Q3 2024
• Financial Services Administrative Policies Update
• Risk & Controls Update and 2024 Workplan
• Non-Residential Tax Listing
• CC-44 Investments Policy 2024

The Audit Standing Policy Committee adopted the agenda and approved the minutes from the April 3, 2024 meeting while receiving the July 17, 2024 Status of Initiatives for information. The committee recommended that City Council reaffirm Council Policy on Investments CC-44 and accept the Financial Services Administrative Policies update as information. Additionally, the committee held a closed meeting and voted to keep discussions and documents regarding risk and controls, the non-residential tax listing, and an external letter confidential.

• Adopted the agenda (3-0)
• Approved April 3, 2024 minutes and received July 17, 2024 Status of Initiatives for information (4-0)
• Recommended City Council reaffirm Council Policy on Investments CC-44 (4-0)
• Recommended City Council accept Financial Services Administrative Policies update as information (4-0)
• Entered closed meeting to discuss confidential matters under FOIP Act (4-0)
• Directed Risk & Controls Update discussions, documents, and presentations remain confidential (4-0)
• Directed Non-Residential Tax Listing report, attachments, presentation, and discussion remain confidential (4-0)
• Directed External Letter report, discussions, documents, and presentations remain confidential (4-0)

Economic And Finance Standing Policy Committee

The committee will discuss updates on the Municipal Housing Strategy and a presentation regarding the 2026 Memorial Cup bid. The agenda also includes reviews of redevelopment incentives for several properties on 13 Street South and 5 Street South. Additionally, members will hear reports on City Hall parking and the Land Use Bylaw renewal engagement plan.

• Municipal Housing Strategy (MHS) update
• 2026 Memorial Cup Bid presentation
• Targeted Redevelopment Incentive Policies for 13 Street South properties
• Project D-28 SAAG Facility Enhancements CIP amendment
• Land Use Bylaw Renewal Phase Two Public Engagement Plan

The Economic and Finance Standing Policy Committee recommended that City Council allocate $1,250,000 from the Municipal Revenue Stabilization Reserve to support a 2026 Memorial Cup bid, contingent on the bid succeeding. The committee also recommended several targeted redevelopment incentives, a review of fee-for-service agreements with Economic Development Lethbridge and Tourism Lethbridge, and changes to City Hall customer parking. A motion to adopt the updated Municipal Housing Strategy in principle and direct Administration to return with an implementation plan was defeated.

• Recommended $1.25M from MRSR for 2026 Memorial Cup bid, contingent on winning (7-1, Crowson opposed)
• Recommended review of fee-for-service agreements with Economic Development Lethbridge and Tourism Lethbridge (8-0)
• Recommended targeted redevelopment incentive for 524/528/532 and 537/539/543 13 Street South with policy exception (8-0)
• Recommended targeted redevelopment incentive for 605 5 Street South/510 6 Avenue South, up to nine years (8-0)
• Recommended targeted redevelopment incentive for 202 5 Street South, up to nine years (8-0)
• Recommended Option 4 for City Hall customer parking: paid front parking, free 30-minute rear stalls (8-0)
• Recommended CIP amendment for SAAG Facility Enhancements to include $1M CFEP grant (8-0)
• Defeated motion to adopt updated Municipal Housing Strategy in principle and direct implementation plan (4-4)

Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force will review minutes from the June 27, 2024 meeting. The committee will hear a submission regarding an amendment to the Clean and Safe motion. Members will also discuss recommendations for the Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee.

• Review of June 27, 2024 minutes
• Submission on Recommended Draft Amendment to Previous Clean and Safe motion
• Discussion on Recommendations to SPC

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force approved a motion to accelerate the update of the Downtown Clean and Safe Strategy from 2026 to November 2024. The group also recommended that they be appointed as the Steering Committee for this review.

• Approved recommendation to accelerate Downtown Clean and Safe Strategy update to November 2024
• Approved recommendation that the Task Force serve as the Steering Committee for the strategy review
• Approved forwarding associated funding requests to November budget discussions
• Adopted meeting agenda
• Approved minutes from June 27, 2024

City Council

The City Council will review several committee recommendations, including updates on climate adaptation and snow/ice control. The meeting includes a first reading for a land use bylaw amendment regarding The Crossings Phase 9 at 1205 30 St. W. Administration will also provide an update on the city's encampment strategy.

• Bylaw 6449 amendment for The Crossings Phase 9 (1205 30 St. W)
• Climate Adaptation Strategy and Action Plan recommendation
• Snow and Ice Control service level change update
• Encampment Strategy Council update
• Notice of motion regarding workload and resourcing for elected officials

City Council adopted a Climate Adaptation Strategy and Action Plan in principle and approved a new Land Acknowledgement statement. The council also authorized a trial for snow plowing changes for the 2024/25 winter season and approved a land purchase agreement amendment for the Crossings subdivision.

• Adopted Climate Adaptation Strategy and Action Plan in principle
• Approved trial of 'plowing to the right' for 2024/25 winter season
• Adopted CC-72: Customer Code of Conduct Policy
• Approved updated Land Acknowledgement statement
• Reaffirmed 24 existing governance policies
• Approved first reading of Bylaw 6449 for The Crossings Phase 9
• Approved purchase agreement amendments for Turnkey Properties Ltd. in the Crossings subdivision
• Approved lease term sheet for a portion of the Park n Ride 2nd floor

Assets And Infrastructure Standing Policy Committee

The Assets and Infrastructure Standing Policy Committee will discuss a land use concept amendment for The Piers Outline Plan. The meeting also features a presentation on University Lands planning and a proposal regarding a pocket park donation from the Chinese National League Society.

• Land Use Concept Amendment: The Piers Outline Plan
• University Lands Planning Request presentation
• Proposed Pocket Park Donation: Chinese National League Society

The Assets and Infrastructure Standing Policy Committee recommended that Council amend the Land Use Concept for the Piers Outline Plan, replacing the concept approved by the Municipal Planning Commission in 2017. It also recommended Council accept a donation of 309 2 Ave S for a pocket park, subject to four conditions including grant funding, a satisfactory environmental assessment, a land donation agreement, and construction before January 1, 2028. A presentation on University of Lethbridge South Campus development was received as information. All items carried; Councillor Parker was absent for the pocket park vote.

• Recommended Council amend the Piers Outline Plan Land Use Concept (4-0)
• Recommended Council receive University of Lethbridge South Campus development presentation as information (4-0)
• Recommended Council accept donation of 309 2 Ave S for pocket park, with 4 conditions (3-0, Parker absent)
• Adopted the July 4, 2024 agenda as presented (4-0)
• Approved May 2, 2024 minutes and received Status of Initiatives as information (4-0)

Governance Standing Policy Committee

The Governance Standing Policy Committee will review the Climate Adaptation Strategy and Action Plan and an update on Phase 2 of the Snow and Ice Control Service Level Change. The agenda also includes presentations regarding a new customer code of conduct policy and proposed amendments to the procedure bylaw.

• Presentation on Climate Adaptation Strategy and Action Plan
• Update on Snow and Ice Control Service Level Change Implementation – Phase 2
• Review of Customer Code of Conduct Policy CC-72
• Proposed amendment to Procedure Bylaw 6250 (Bylaw 6450)
• Discussion regarding election signs within road right-of-way

The Governance Standing Policy Committee recommended that City Council adopt a Climate Adaptation Strategy and Action Plan in principle, implement a winter snow and ice control trial, and update the city's land acknowledgment statement. The committee also recommended reaffirming 25 governance and operational policies, advancing a procedure bylaw amendment, and approving a closed workshop for council advocacy.

• Accepted Team Lethbridge presentation and confirmed Mayor Blaine Hyggen and Councillor Schmidt-Rempel as members (3-0)
• Recommended Council adopt the Climate Adaptation Strategy and Action Plan in principle (3-0)
• Recommended Council implement Option 1 snow and ice control plowing on a trial basis for the 2024/25 winter (3-0)
• Recommended Council adopt CC-72 Customer Code of Conduct Policy (3-0)
• Recommended Council rescind the 2019 land acknowledgment resolution and approve an updated statement (3-0)
• Recommended Council reaffirm 25 listed governance and policy priorities as written (3-0)
• Recommended Council provide first reading to Bylaw 6450 amending Procedure Bylaw 6250 on July 9, 2024 (3-0)
• Recommended holding a closed workshop for City Council on July 25, 2024, for advocacy planning (3-0)

Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force will hear submissions from the BRZ Committee regarding the Calgary Downtown Safety Leadership Table. The meeting also includes discussions on summer meeting schedules and the development of task force recommendations.

• Submission regarding Calgary Downtown Safety Leadership Table
• Discussion on summer meeting schedule
• Development of Task Force recommendations
• Approval of June 13, 2024, meeting minutes

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force recommended that Council appoint them as the steering committee for the Community Clean and Safe Strategy Program review. The group also updated its summer meeting schedule.

• Recommended Council appoint Task Force as Steering Committee for Community Clean and Safe Strategy Program review (Carried)
• Approved updated summer meeting schedule for July 11, July 25, and August 22 (Carried)
• Approved June 13, 2024 meeting minutes (Carried)
• Adopted meeting agenda (Carried)

City Council

The council will review a presentation on the transit review and consider first readings for multiple land use bylaw amendments. Members will also discuss the Galbraith Elementary School modernization and respond to an inquiry about water transmission pipes.

• First reading of land use bylaw amendments for properties including 1163 Abitibi Rd. W
• Second and third readings for bylaws amending the City Manager and City Clerk bylaws
• Presentation regarding a transit review
• Discussion on Galbraith Elementary School modernization
• Administrative inquiry response concerning water transmission pipes

Lethbridge City Council approved a $1.2 million allocation from the Major Capital Project Reserve to upsize the Galbraith Elementary School gymnasium, contingent on community access and provincial funding. Council also approved two land purchases, passed amendments to the City Manager and City Clerk bylaws, and directed administration to reinvest transit budget surpluses into fixed route and Access-a-Ride services.

• Endorsed procurement summary reporting harmonization with CFTA guidelines (8-0)
• Accepted Economic Development Lethbridge annual report and adjusted 2025-2026 funding amounts (8-0)
• Approved land purchase of 215.80 sq. ft. at 618 – 6 Avenue South for $3,000 (8-0)
• Approved land purchase of 588.64 sq. ft. at 410 Stafford Drive North for $742 (8-0)
• Gave first reading and scheduled July 23 public hearings for five land use and statutory plan bylaws (8-0)
• Referred succession planning and transition allowance policy creation to administration for Q4 2024 (8-0)
• Gave second and third readings to Bylaw 6448 and Bylaw 6431 amending the City Manager and City Clerk bylaws (8-0)
• Allocated $1,200,000 from Major Capital Project Reserve for Galbraith Elementary School gymnasium upsizing (8-0)

Safety And Social Standing Policy Committee

The Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee will review several annual reports and plans. This includes presentations on the Green Acres Foundation 2023 report and the Lethbridge Police Commission 2024 Annual Plan. The committee will also receive the 2023 Public Art Program Annual Report.

• Green Acres Foundation 2023 Report to the Community presentation
• 2023 Public Art Program Annual Report submission
• Lethbridge Police Commission 2024 Annual Plan submission
• Approval of May 16, 2024, committee minutes
• Review of the Status of Initiatives report

The Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee adopted its agenda and approved previous minutes. The committee received three annual reports as information: the Green Acres Foundation 2023 Report, the Allied Arts 2023 Public Art Program Annual Report, and the Lethbridge Police Commission 2024 Annual Plan. No substantive policy decisions or new initiatives were approved during this meeting.

• Agenda adopted (4-0)
• May 16, 2024 minutes approved (4-0)
• Green Acres Foundation 2023 Report received as information (4-0)
• Allied Arts 2023 Public Art Program Annual Report received as information (4-0)
• Lethbridge Police Commission 2024 Annual Plan received as information (4-0)

Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force will review presentations regarding unwanted activity downtown and nuisance alarms. The committee will also hear submissions about the Galt Gardens short-term strategy and a bylaw enforcement budget initiative.

• Presentation on concerns regarding unwanted activity downtown
• Presentation regarding nuisance alarms
• Submission on Bylaw Enforcement Budget Initiative
• Submission on Galt Gardens Short Term Strategy
• Review of confidential downtown data

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force met on June 13, 2024 and accepted several verbal reports as information, including updates on a Bylaw Enforcement Budget Initiative, the Galt Gardens Short Term Strategy, and Back Alley Gatherings. It referred a presentation on Nuisance Alarms to the Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee. The task force also held a closed meeting on Downtown Data and kept those discussions confidential under FOIP Sections 23 and 24. No changes were made to the summer meeting schedule.

• Adopted the June 13, 2024 agenda as amended to add Back Alley Gatherings (6-0, one absent)
• Approved the May 23, 2024 minutes (6-0, one absent)
• Accepted a presentation on unwanted activity downtown as information (6-0, one absent)
• Referred a presentation on Nuisance Alarms to the Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee (6-0, one absent)
• Accepted the Bylaw Enforcement Budget Initiative report as information (6-0, one absent)
• Accepted the Galt Gardens Short Term Strategy report as information (6-0, one absent)
• Accepted the Back Alley Gatherings report as information (6-0, one absent)
• Held a closed meeting on Downtown Data and kept discussions confidential under FOIP Sections 23 and 24 (6-0, one absent)

Economic And Finance Standing Policy Committee

The Economic and Finance Standing Policy Committee will review several financial and operational updates. This includes a presentation on the Galbraith Elementary School Modernization and a tax rate review. The committee will also receive reports regarding procurement reporting and the Lethbridge and District Exhibition.

• Galbraith Elementary School Modernization presentation
• Tax Rate Review
• Procurement Summary Reporting Harmonization
• Lethbridge and District Exhibition monthly financial reporting
• Lethbridge District Exhibition MOU update

The committee recommended that City Council advance $1.2 million for a school gymnasium upgrade contingent on community access and provincial funding. It also recommended two small land purchases and updated funding for economic development market intelligence.

• Recommended $1.2M for Galbraith school gym upgrade contingent on community access and provincial funding
• Recommended purchase of 215.80 sq ft at 618 – 6 Avenue South for $3,000
• Recommended purchase of 588.64 sq ft at 410 Stafford Drive North for $742
• Adjusted Economic Development funding to $102,500 for 2025 and $5,000 for 2026
• Recommended endorsement of procurement reporting harmonization with CFTA guidelines
• Deferred return of Lethbridge Fire & EMS Supervisors Positions to a future meeting
• Forwarded Land Development Matter to July 9th Closed Meeting of Council

City Council

The City Council will consider a capital funding request for the Lethbridge Housing Authority to support affordable and social housing. The meeting also includes an operating budget amendment for the purchase of a new fire engine. Additionally, council will review recommendations regarding the 2024 Civic Culture Plan and various bylaw amendments.

• Affordable and social housing capital grant for Lethbridge Housing Authority
• Operating budget amendment for a fire engine purchase
• Amendments to City Manager and City Clerk bylaws
• 2024 Civic Culture Plan recommendation
• Fee-for-service cost benefit analysis

Lethbridge City Council approved providing up to $1,050,000 from the Affordable and Social Housing Capital Grant to the Lethbridge Housing Authority for a supportive housing project at 416 Stafford Drive North, conditional on key project features and a signed agreement. Council also approved a $1,426,500 operating budget amendment to buy Fire Engine #6 from the Fleet Reserve, adopted the 2024 Civic Culture Plan in principle, and gave first reading to two bylaws amending the City Manager and City Clerk bylaws. A motion to review fee-for-service arrangements with Economic Development Lethbridge and Tourism Lethbridge was referred to the July 11, 2024 Economic & Finance Standing Policy Committee. Council entered a closed meeting at 3:18 p.m. and adjourned at 4:00 p.m.

• Approved up to $1,050,000 from the Affordable and Social Housing Capital Grant to Lethbridge Housing Authority for supportive housing at 416 Stafford Drive North (9-0)
• Approved $1,426,500 operating budget amendment to purchase Fire Engine #6 from the Fleet Reserve (9-0)
• Adopted the 2024 Civic Culture Plan in principle as a guiding document (9-0)
• Directed Administration to develop a Civic Arts Policy and Cultural Heritage Policy to return to the Governance Standing Policy Committee in 2025 (9-0)
• Gave First Reading to Bylaw 6448 amending the City Manager Bylaw 6099 (9-0)
• Gave First Reading to Bylaw 6431 amending the City Manager Bylaw 6099 and City Clerk Bylaw 4783 (9-0)
• Referred the Fee-for-Service Cost Benefit Analysis for Economic Development Lethbridge and Tourism Lethbridge to the July 11, 2024 Economic & Finance Standing Policy Committee (8-1, Councillor Middleton-Hope opposed)
• Approved deferring the return date for the LPS Technology Line of Credit Policy and Procedures item from July 17, 2024 to a Q4 2024 Audit Standing Policy Committee meeting (9-0)

Assets And Infrastructure Standing Policy Committee

The Assets and Infrastructure Standing Policy Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday, May 30, 2024, has been cancelled. The notice was issued by Acting Mayor Campbell on May 22, 2024. No items were discussed or decided.

• Meeting cancelled

City Council

Lethbridge City Council is meeting to handle routine business, including consent agenda items, a water bylaw amendment, and a public hearing for a rezoning at 714-7 Street South and a portion of 620-7 Avenue South (London Road Park). The council will also consider funding requests for affordable housing, the 2026 Scotties Tournament of Hearts, and a downtown business revitalization grant amendment.

• Public hearing for Bylaw 6438 rezoning at 714-7 Street South and portion of 620-7 Avenue South (London Road Park)
• Bylaw 6445 amending Water Bylaw 3999 (2nd and 3rd reading)
• Affordable and Social Housing Capital Funding Request from Lethbridge Housing Authority
• 2026 Scotties Tournament of Hearts funding request
• Downtown Lethbridge Business Revitalization Zone Major Event Support Grant funding amendment

Council rejected a rezoning application for properties at 714-7 Street South and 620-7 Avenue South. The board also approved several grant funding adjustments for major events and updated the 2027-2030 budget process.

• Denied second reading for Bylaw 6438 rezoning at 714-7 Street South and 620-7 Avenue South (3-5)
• Approved $400,000 in funding for 2026 Scotties Tournament of Hearts
• Approved updated $140,000 funding request for Lethbridge PlayOn! Canada event
• Deferred utility servicing payment to August 31, 2024 for 416 Stafford Drive North project
• Referred Lethbridge Housing Authority funding request of up to $1,050,000 to November budget review
• Approved amended 2027-2030 Capital and 2028-2031 Operating budget process
• Passed Bylaw 6445 amending the Water Services Bylaw
• Directed staff to study feasibility of 15-minute free parking grace period at City Hall

Governance Standing Policy Committee

The Governance Standing Policy Committee is meeting to receive a presentation on the 2024 Civic Culture Plan and to consider two bylaw amendments related to the City Manager and City Clerk bylaws. The agenda also includes routine items such as adoption of previous minutes and a status update on initiatives.

• Presentation on 2024 Civic Culture Plan by Robin Harper, General Manager - Recreation and Culture
• Bylaw 6448 to amend Bylaw 6099 (City Manager Bylaw), including draft policy on sale, lease, and acquisition of real estate
• Bylaw 6431 to amend City Manager Bylaw (6099) and City Clerk Bylaw (4783)
• Verbal update on Government Relations and Advocacy by Gerald Gauthier

The Governance Standing Policy Committee recommended that City Council adopt the 2024 Civic Culture Plan in principle and direct administration to develop related arts and heritage policies. The committee also recommended first reading for two bylaws amending the City Manager and City Clerk bylaws, including repealing specific real estate policies. One item regarding FOIP Section 24 was discussed in a closed session, with the recommendation to provide first reading passing 3-1.

• Agenda adopted (4-0)
• April 25 minutes approved and Status of Initiatives received (4-0)
• Recommended Council adopt 2024 Civic Culture Plan in principle (4-0)
• Government Relations Update received as information (4-0)
• Recommended First Reading for Bylaw 6448 and repeal of Policies CC-37 and CC-45 (4-0)
• Entered Closed Meeting for Bylaw 6431 discussion (4-0)
• Recommended First Reading for Bylaw 6431; closed session details kept confidential (3-1)

Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force is meeting to hear submissions on graffiti abatement, downtown safety sessions, security camera installation at Galt Gardens Pergola, crime reduction committee models, and other partners. They will also receive information on an intermunicipal lawlessness workshop and discuss confidential downtown data.

• Graffiti Abatement Proposal by Sarah Amies, Downtown BRZ
• Downtown Safety Sessions by Sarah Amies, Downtown BRZ
• Installation of Security Cameras at Galt Gardens Pergola by Crystal Scheit
• Crime Reduction Committee Models by Matthew McHugh
• Confidential Downtown Data (FOIP Sections 23 and 24)

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force recommended one-time 2024 funding for the Graffiti Abatement Strategy. The group also accepted several reports for information regarding downtown safety, security cameras, and crime reduction models.

• Recommended $51,562 in one-time 2024 funding to extend Graffiti Abatement Strategy (Carried)
• Recommended forwarding future Graffiti Abatement Strategy funding to November 2024 budget deliberations (Carried)
• Accepted report on Downtown Safety Sessions for information (Carried)
• Accepted report on security camera installation at Galt Gardens Pergola for information (Carried)
• Accepted Crime Reduction Committee Models report for information (Carried)
• Accepted report on other partners for information (Carried)
• Resolved to keep closed meeting discussions regarding Downtown Data confidential (Carried)

Safety And Social Standing Policy Committee

The Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee is meeting to receive updates and presentations. Items include the Lethbridge Public Library's 2023 annual report, the Community Wellbeing and Safety Strategic (CWSS) updates and funding disbursement process, and an update from the Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force. The agenda also includes adoption of prior minutes and a status of initiatives report. No decisions are listed on the agenda; it is primarily an information and discussion meeting.

• Lethbridge Public Library 2023 Report to the Community presentation by CEO Terra Plato
• Community Wellbeing and Safety Strategic (CWSS) updates and funding disbursement process presentation
• Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force update by Chair Hunter Heggie
• Adoption of 2024-04-18 Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee minutes
• Status of Initiatives report for 2024-05-16

The committee recommended that City Council adopt the updated Community Wellbeing and Safety Strategy and accept a specific funding disbursement model for federal and provincial funds. The committee also received reports from the Lethbridge Public Library and the Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force.

• Recommended City Council adopt the updated Community Wellbeing and Safety Strategy (4-0)
• Recommended City Council accept the Call for Proposals model for Reaching Home and Family and Community Support Services funds (4-0)
• Approved April 18, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Received Lethbridge Public Library 2023 Report to the Community as information (4-0)
• Received Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force Update as information (4-0)

City Council

Lethbridge City Council meets May 14, 2024, to adopt bylaws setting 2024 property tax rates, including the downtown BIA rate, and to consider recommendations from standing committees on the encampment strategy, cycling lanes, and other items. Council will also discuss physician recruitment, post-secondary graduate retention, and receive an administration presentation on 2024 municipal tax cancellations under the Targeted Redevelopment Incentive Program. The agenda includes several consent items and a confidential land sale report.

• Bylaw 6435: 2024 Property Tax and Supplementary Property Tax Rate Bylaw (2nd/3rd reading)
• Bylaw 6436: 2024 Downtown BIA Tax Rate Bylaw (2nd/3rd reading)
• Encampment Strategy 2023 Year in Review and 2024 Strategic Updates (committee recommendation)
• Cycling Lanes recommendation from Assets and Infrastructure SPC
• Targeted Redevelopment Incentive Program (TRIP) 2024 Municipal Tax Cancellations

Council approved the sale of 14.875 acres at 3360 Cavendish Road North to Triple M Housing Ltd. The meeting also included the passage of 2024 property tax rate bylaws and the allocation of $15,000 for physician recruitment marketing.

• Approved sale of 14.875 acres at 3360 Cavendish Road North to Triple M Housing Ltd for $3,220,000
• Allocated $15,000 for physician recruitment marketing and directed City Manager to update Family Physician Action Plan
• Passed 2024 Property Tax and Supplementary Property Tax Rate Bylaw (Bylaw 6435)
• Passed 2024 Tax Installment Pre-Payment Plan Bylaw (Bylaw 6434)
• Passed 2024 Downtown BIA Tax Rate Bylaw (Bylaw 6436)
• Approved $171,083.43 in municipal tax cancellations for eligible TRIP properties
• Transferred FCSS and Reaching Home funding decision-making to the Community Wellbeing Advisory Board (7-2)
• Directed administration to provide downtown bike lane usage updates in summer 2025 and 2026 (8-1)

Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force for May 9, 2024, has been cancelled. The notice was issued by the Deputy City Clerk on May 6, 2024. No agenda items or decisions are available for this meeting.

• Meeting cancelled

Economic And Finance Standing Policy Committee

The Economic and Finance Standing Policy Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially decide on several funding requests and reports, including an affordable housing capital grant for the Lethbridge Housing Authority, a funding amendment for the Downtown Lethbridge Business Revitalization Zone, and a funding request for the 2026 Scotties Tournament of Hearts. The committee will also review annual reports from Opportunity Lethbridge and Economic Development Lethbridge, an update on development-based incentives, and options for the 2027-2030 capital and operating budget process. A confidential item on affordable social housing capital grant funding is also on the agenda.

• Affordable and Social Housing Capital Funding Request - Lethbridge Housing Authority
• Downtown Lethbridge Business Revitalization Zone - Major Event Support Grant Funding Amendment
• 2026 Scotties Tournament of Hearts Funding Request
• Development Based Incentives Update
• 2027-2030 Capital & Operating Budget Process Options

The Economic and Finance Standing Policy Committee deferred a $1.05 million funding request for the Lethbridge Housing Authority's supportive housing project to the November annual budget review. The committee also recommended rescinding a previous $210,000 grant for the PlayOn! Canada event and replacing it with a $140,000 contingent grant. Additionally, the committee defeated a proposal to change the city's capital and operating budget planning schedule.

• Deferred $1.05M Lethbridge Housing Authority request to November budget review (8-0)
• Recommended rescinding $210k PlayOn! Canada grant; approved $140k contingent replacement (8-0)
• Recommended allocating $400k for 2026 Scotties Tournament of Hearts (7-1)
• Recommended approving Lethbridge Land 2024-2027 Work Plan allocations (8-0)
• Defeated proposal to stagger 2027-2030 Capital and Operating budget processes (3-4)
• Recommended rescinding resolutions marked 'Cannot be Completed in This Term' (7-0)
• Recommended approving Council Policy Update timeline and Action Plan Update (7-0)
• Postponed Economic Development Lethbridge Annual Report review to June 13 meeting (8-0)

Assets And Infrastructure Standing Policy Committee

The Assets and Infrastructure Standing Policy Committee is meeting to receive presentations on cycling lanes and Environment Lethbridge's 2022-2023 activities, and to discuss a review of the Joint Use Agreement for indoor court/multipurpose space. The agenda also includes adoption of previous minutes and a status of initiatives report.

• Presentation by Environment Lethbridge on 2022-2023 activities
• Cycling lanes presentation by Transportation Engineer Adam St. Amant
• Indoor court/multipurpose space and audit analysis (scope of Joint Use Agreement review)
• Consent agenda: minutes from April 4, 2024 and status of initiatives

The committee recommended that Council direct administration to provide updates on downtown bike lane usage in summer 2025 and a full report on usage, safety, and modifications in summer 2026. It also recommended updating joint use agreements with school divisions.

• Recommended Council direct administration to provide a downtown bike lane usage update in summer 2025 (3-0)
• Recommended Council direct administration to provide a report on downtown bike lane usage, safety, and modifications in summer 2026 (3-0)
• Recommended Council direct administration to update joint use agreements with School Divisions (3-0)
• Approved April 4, 2024 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Received Environment Lethbridge 2022-2023 Report on Activities as information (3-0)

Governance Standing Policy Committee

The Governance Standing Policy Committee will consider amendments to the Community Wellbeing and Safety Advisory Committee/Community Advisory Board governance, hear advocacy on Reaching Home funding, and review an update to the Heart of Our City Committee's terms of reference. The agenda also includes routine items like adopting previous minutes and a status of initiatives report.

• CWSS Advisory Committee/Community Advisory Board governance amendments
• Reaching Home funding advocacy (verbal by Deputy Mayor Carlson)
• Heart of Our City Committee Terms of Reference update
• Adoption of 2024-03-28 minutes
• Status of Initiatives report

The Governance Standing Policy Committee recommended that City Council transfer funding distribution decisions for FCSS and Reaching Home programs to the Community Wellbeing Advisory Board. The committee also recommended updates to the Heart of Our City Committee's Terms of Reference.

• Recommended transferring FCSS and Reaching Home funding decisions to the Community Wellbeing Advisory Board (4-0)
• Recommended amendments to Heart of Our City Committee Terms of Reference, including membership changes and meeting frequency (4-0)
• Approved March 28, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Received Reaching Home Funding – Advocacy matter as information (3-1)

Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force, a sub-committee of the Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee, is meeting to consider several items including a proposed name change to the Lethbridge Public Safety and Community Response Task Force, a Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design Grant, and communication strategies. The agenda also includes adoption of prior minutes, a submission from the chair, and review of the committee's terms of reference.

• Proposed name change to Lethbridge Public Safety and Community Response Task Force
• Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design Grant presentation
• Communication update from Communications Strategist
• Adoption of 2024-04-11 minutes
• Terms of Reference review

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force met on April 25, 2024 and approved its agenda and the minutes of its April 11, 2024 meeting. It voted to submit an update on its activities to the May 16, 2024 Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee, and postponed discussion on a name for a sub-committee. The task force also accepted several items as information: a Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design Grant, a Communications report, a Galt Gardens upkeep update, and a report on the May 2, 2024 Intermunicipal Lawlessness Reduction Workshop. All recorded motions carried with five members in favour; two Downtown BRZ members were absent.

• Adopted the April 25, 2024 agenda as presented (5 in favour, 2 absent)
• Approved the April 11, 2024 minutes and authorized the Chair and City Clerk Designate to sign them (5 in favour, 2 absent)
• Approved submitting a Task Force activities update to the May 16, 2024 Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee (5 in favour, 2 absent)
• Postponed discussion on a name for the Sub-Committee (5 in favour, 2 absent)
• Accepted the Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design Grant as information (5 in favour, 2 absent)
• Accepted the Communications report as information (5 in favour, 2 absent)
• Accepted the Galt Gardens upkeep update as information (5 in favour, 2 absent)
• Accepted the report on the May 2, 2024 Intermunicipal Lawlessness Reduction Workshop as information (5 in favour, 2 absent)

City Council

Lethbridge City Council is meeting to consider several items, including setting 2024 property tax rates, a downtown BIA tax rate, and a tax installment pre-payment plan. They will also review committee recommendations on the 2023 annual report, decorative crosswalks for mental health, a water conservation plan, and an industrial tax incentive. The agenda includes a public hearing at 3:00 PM and several confidential reports.

• Bylaw 6435: 2024 Property Tax and Supplementary Property Tax Rate Bylaw
• Bylaw 6436: 2024 Downtown BIA Tax Rate Bylaw
• Bylaw 6434: 2024 Tax Installment Pre-Payment Plan Bylaw
• Bylaw 6438: Land Use Bylaw Amendment re: 714 – 7 Street South and a Portion of 620 – 7 Avenue South
• Inquiry re: 7th Street Bike Lane

Council approved a new Water Conservation Plan and Strategy, including a Water Rationing Action Plan and potential scaling water rates. The city also advanced several tax bylaws to first reading and approved two confidential lease agreements.

• Approved Water Conservation Plan and Strategy and Water Rationing Action Plan
• Approved 'Mental Health Matters' temporary crosswalks funded by Wood's Homes
• Approved Collective Assets' application for Industrial Municipal Tax Incentive
• Paused new applications to Industrial Municipal Tax Incentive Policy CC64
• Approved lease agreements with McNally Contractors (2011) Ltd. and DMJR Family Holdings Ltd.
• Passed first reading for 2024 Property Tax, Tax Installment Pre-Payment, and Downtown BIA Tax Rate bylaws
• Passed first reading for Land Use Bylaw Amendment (Bylaw 6438) with public hearing set for May 28, 2024
• Directed Administration to proceed with confidential U-Pass option #1 (5-4)

Safety And Social Standing Policy Committee

The Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee is meeting to hear presentations on the 2023 year in review and 2024 strategic updates for the Encampment Strategy, the 2023 Galt Museum & Archives annual report, and properties of concern under the Minimum Property Standards Bylaw 5747. The committee will also consider consent agenda items including prior minutes and a status of initiatives report. A confidential report on properties of concern is scheduled under FOIP sections 18 and 23.

• Encampment Strategy 2023 year in review and 2024 proposed changes
• 2023 Galt Museum & Archives annual report
• Properties of concern under Minimum Property Standards Bylaw 5747
• Confidential report on properties of concern (FOIP 18 and 23)
• Status of initiatives as of 2024-04-18

The Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee recommended that Council approve amendments to the Encampment Strategy. The committee also received reports on the Galt Museum & Archives and properties subject to the Minimum Property Standards Bylaw.

• Recommended Council approve amendments to the Encampment Strategy (4-0)
• Adopted the meeting agenda (4-0)
• Approved March 21, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Received 2023 Galt Museum & Archives Annual Report as information (4-0)
• Received Properties of Concern report regarding Bylaw 5747 as information (4-0)

Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force is meeting to review its previous minutes, hear a presentation on Downtown Clean and Safe Initiatives, receive an update for the Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee, and discuss a possible new name for the sub-committee. Public participation is welcome for agenda items.

• Presentation by Andrew Malcolm on Downtown Clean and Safe Initiatives Overview
• Update by Chair Hunter Heggie to Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee
• Mayor Hyggen to propose a name for the sub-committee
• Adoption of minutes from 2024-03-28 meeting

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force adopted its agenda and approved minutes from its March 28, 2024 meeting. It received for information a Downtown Clean and Safe Initiatives Overview from Andrew Malcolm. The task force postponed discussion of a submission to the Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee until its April 25, 2024 meeting. No other substantive decisions were recorded; the meeting adjourned at 9:08 a.m.

• Adopted the April 11, 2024 agenda as presented (7-0)
• Approved March 28, 2024 minutes and authorized Chair and City Clerk Designate to sign (7-0)
• Received for information the Downtown Clean and Safe Initiatives Overview (7-0)
• Postponed submission discussion to Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee until April 25, 2024 meeting (7-0)

Economic And Finance Standing Policy Committee

The Economic and Finance Standing Policy Committee is meeting to hear presentations on the 2027-2030 capital and operating budget update, a water conservation plan and strategy, a Tourism Lethbridge spring update, an industrial municipal tax incentive application review, and community wellbeing and safety initiatives. The committee will also receive submissions on the Chinook Arch Regional Library System's value for service and cost-benefit analysis, Lethbridge & District Exhibition financial reporting and MOU update, and will consider two confidential lease agreements.

• 2027-2030 Capital & Operating Budget Update presentation by CFO Darrell Mathews
• Water Conservation Plan and Strategy presentation by Manager of Engineering & Environment Mark Svenson
• Industrial Municipal Tax Incentive (CC64) application review for 3690 36 St. N
• Chinook Arch Regional Library System Value for Service Report and Cost Benefit Analysis update
• Confidential lease agreements with McNally Contractors (2011) Ltd. and DMJR Family Holdings Ltd.

The Economic and Finance Standing Policy Committee recommended that City Council approve the Water Conservation Plan and Strategy, including updated targets and a Water Rationing Action Plan, and direct Administration to engage the ICI sector on a possible amending bylaw to Water Bylaw 3999. It also recommended approving Collective Assets' application to the Industrial Municipal Tax Incentive (Policy CC64) for work at 3690, 36th Street N., while pausing new applications to that policy pending a review. In closed session, the committee recommended that Council approve leases with McNally Contractors (2011) Ltd. and DMJR Family Holdings Ltd. and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to sign them. All recorded votes were unanimous; Councillor Middleton-Hope was absent for the later items after departing at 4:07 P.M.

• Recommended Council approve the Water Conservation Plan and Strategy, including targets and updated Water Rationing Action Plan (9-0)
• Recommended directing Administration to engage the ICI area on a possible amending bylaw to Water Bylaw 3999, including scaling water rates (9-0)
• Recommended approving voluntary, economic and regulatory initiatives, with rain barrel, water-efficient toilet and xeriscaping incentives contingent on future funding (9-0)
• Recommended approving Collective Assets' Industrial Municipal Tax Incentive (CC64) application for 3690, 36th Street N. (9-0)
• Recommended pausing new CC64 applications and folding a policy review into the Development Incentives OBM (9-0)
• Deferred the Land Use Bylaw Renewal Phase Two Public Engagement Plan from May 7, 2024 to the July 11, 2024 committee meeting (9-0)
• Referred Chinook Arch Regional Library System Value for Service Report and Cost Benefit Analysis Update to the November 2024 Operating Budget Review meeting (9-0)
• Recommended Council approve leases with McNally Contractors (2011) Ltd. and DMJR Family Holdings Ltd. and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to sign (8-0 each, Middleton-Hope absent)

City Council

Lethbridge City Council meets April 9, 2024, to consider consent agenda items including committee recommendations on shelter development, MMIWG workplan, Indigenous women's needs assessment, ENMAX Centre master plan, downtown lawlessness reduction, and council policy updates. A public hearing is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. on Bylaw 6441, a Land Use Bylaw amendment for 1730 10 Avenue South. A confidential report on the Non-Profit Affordable Housing Tax Rebate Grant Program is also listed.

• Public hearing: Bylaw 6441 Land Use Bylaw amendment re: 1730 10 Avenue South
• Recommendation: Shelter Development Strategy quarterly update
• Recommendation: MMIWG workplan update
• Recommendation: Indigenous Women's Needs Assessment
• Recommendation: ENMAX Centre Master Plan

Lethbridge City Council adopted the 2024 ENMAX Centre Master Plan in principle as a guiding document, with any capital or operating budget items to return through future budget processes. Council also amended Policy CC-13 to classify advocacy efforts as High, Medium, or Low Priority, and approved Bylaw 6441 to add Signs as a permitted use at 1730 10 Avenue South. In closed session, council directed administration to develop a Non-Profit Affordable Housing Tax Rebate Grant Program framework and return with funding options by the end of 2024.

• Adopted 2024 ENMAX Centre Master Plan in principle (9-0)
• Amended Policy CC-13 advocacy classifications to High, Medium, Low Priority (9-0)
• Approved Bylaw 6441 adding Signs as permitted use at 1730 10 Avenue South (8-0, Crowson absent)
• Directed administration to develop Non-Profit Affordable Housing Tax Rebate Grant Program framework by end of 2024 (9-0)
• Changed Economic and Finance SPC meeting from May 9 to May 7, 2024 (9-0)
• Received Shelter Development Strategy update; changed reporting from quarterly to twice annually (9-0)
• Received National Inquiry into MMIWG Workplan update as information (9-0)
• Received Indigenous Women's Emergency Shelter Needs Assessment as information (9-0)

Assets And Infrastructure Standing Policy Committee

The Assets and Infrastructure Standing Policy Committee will meet to consider a presentation from Wood's Homes on decorative crosswalks for mental health, along with a public submission from Collins. The agenda also includes adoption of prior minutes and a status update on initiatives.

• Presentation by Carrie Dahl of Wood's Homes on decorative crosswalks for mental health
• Public submission from Collins
• Adoption of March 7, 2024 committee minutes
• Status of initiatives update

The committee recommended that City Council approve two temporary 'Mental Health Matters' crosswalks funded by Wood's Homes. It also recommended that administration create a formal policy for decorative crosswalks by Q3 2025.

• Approved March 7, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Received Status of Initiatives report with deferred date for Indoor Court/Multipurpose Space and Audit Analysis (4-0)
• Recommended City Council approve two temporary 'Mental Health Matters' crosswalks on 3rd Avenue South at 3rd Street South at a cost of $3,100 to be paid by Wood's Homes (4-0)
• Recommended City Council direct administration to prepare a Decorative Crosswalks policy for the Governance Standing Policy Committee by Q3 2025 (4-0)

Audit Standing Policy Committee

The Audit Standing Policy Committee is meeting to handle routine business, including adopting previous minutes and reviewing the status of initiatives. The main substantive items are confidential reports on the 2023 audit findings, the 2023 City of Lethbridge Annual Report, and a closed session with external auditors. All three reports are confidential under FOIP sections 23, 24, and 26, so no details are publicly available in the agenda.

• Confidential 2023 Audit Findings Report (FOIP Sections 23, 24, 26)
• Confidential 2023 City of Lethbridge Annual Report (FOIP Sections 23, 24, 26)
• Closed verbal session with external auditors (FOIP Section 26)
• Adoption of Audit Standing Policy Committee minutes from 2024-03-06
• Status of Initiatives report dated 2024-04-03

The Audit Standing Policy Committee recommended that Council approve the 2023 City of Lethbridge Annual Report. The committee also voted to keep the 2023 Audit Findings Report, the Annual Report, and a session with external auditors confidential.

• Adopted the meeting agenda (4-0)
• Approved amended March 6, 2024 minutes (4-0)
• Received April 3, 2024 Status of Initiatives for information (4-0)
• Directed 2023 Audit Findings Report remain confidential (4-0)
• Recommended Council approve 2023 City of Lethbridge Annual Report (4-0)
• Directed 2023 City of Lethbridge Annual Report remain confidential (4-0)
• Directed verbal session with external auditors remain confidential (4-0)

Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force is meeting to hear presentations on alley fire mitigation, a graffiti abatement strategy, and Lethbridge Police Service resources. Members will also discuss crime prevention through environmental design, Galt Gardens cleanup, and shopping cart locking by London Drugs and Save-On-Foods. The agenda includes adoption of prior minutes and public participation is welcome.

• Presentation by Deputy Fire Chief Kevin McKeown and Chief Fire Marshall Troy Hicks on alley fire mitigation
• Graffiti abatement strategy presentation by Sarah Amies, Downtown Business Revitalization Zone
• Lethbridge Police Service resources submission by Deputy Chief Gerald Grobmeier
• Discussion on Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design
• Discussion on Galt Gardens clean-up and shopping cart locking by London Drugs and Save-On-Foods

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force met to receive several informational reports. No new policies were enacted or funding approved during the session.

• Approved March 14, 2024 meeting minutes (Carried)
• Received Alley Fire Mitigation report as information (Carried)
• Received Graffiti Abatement Strategy report as information (Carried)
• Received Lethbridge Police Service Resources Listing report as information (Carried)

Governance Standing Policy Committee

The Governance Standing Policy Committee is meeting to hear presentations on the ENMAX Centre Master Plan and the Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force's response to a February 22, 2024 resolution. They will also receive submissions on the Land Use Bylaw Renewal Phase Two public engagement plan and proposed updates to Council Policy CC-13 on professional development and advocacy. The agenda includes consent items for prior minutes and a status of initiatives report.

• ENMAX Centre Master Plan presentation by Kim Gallucci, Michael Soll, and Kevin Dennis
• Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force response to February 22, 2024 resolution, including draft bylaw and terms of reference
• Land Use Bylaw Renewal Phase Two Public Engagement Plan submission
• Updates to City Council Policy CC-13: Council Professional Development and Advocacy Opportunities
• Public correspondence regarding the Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force

The committee recommended that City Council adopt the 2024 ENMAX Centre Master Plan as a guiding document. It also recommended amendments to the Council Professional Development and Advocacy Opportunities policy. A proposal to rescind the Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force was defeated.

• Recommended City Council adopt the 2024 ENMAX Centre Master Plan (4-0)
• Recommended City Council amend Policy CC-13 advocacy priority definitions (4-0)
• Denied recommendation to rescind the Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force (2-2)
• Denied recommendation to accept the Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force report as information (2-2)
• Referred Land Use Bylaw Renewal Phase Two Public Engagement Plan to May 9 meeting (3-1)
• Approved February 22, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)

City Council

Lethbridge City Council meets March 26, 2024, to handle routine consent items, presentations, and several administrative submissions. Key items include funding for needle debris mitigation from the Government of Alberta, a homelessness strategy funding application, and second/third reading of a reconciliation advisory committee bylaw. The agenda also includes confidential reports on an AHS contract, affordable housing tax rebates, and an airport grant application.

• Bylaw 6440 - Reconciliation Lethbridge Advisory Committee Bylaw (2nd and 3rd reading)
• Lethbridge Needle Debris Mitigation Funding - Government of Alberta
• Reaching Home: Canada's Homelessness Strategy 2024-2028 - Infrastructure Canada
• Servus Sport Centre Lease recommendation from Economic & Finance SPC
• DBRZ 2024 Budget recommendation from Economic & Finance SPC

City Council approved significant funding for homelessness prevention and a master service agreement with Alberta Health Services for EMS. The council also authorized the 2024 DBRZ budget and various utility reserve transfers.

• Approved $5,587,012 for Reaching Home: Canada’s Homelessness Strategy 2024-2028
• Authorized Master Service Agreement with Alberta Health Services for EMS (2.5-year term)
• Approved $266,798.47 for the Downtown Business Revitalization Zone (DBRZ) 2024 Budget
• Approved $115,000 from Government of Alberta for needle debris mitigation
• Approved up to $200,000 for Regional Airport Development Grant conditional on provincial funding
• Approved lease agreement with Lethbridge Soccer Association for Servus Sport Centre (2024-28)
• Approved creation of Water Utility Reserve ($1,174,000) and Wastewater Utility Reserve ($826,000)
• Declared April 7, 2024, as 'Green Shirt Day' as a tribute to Logan Boulet

Safety And Social Standing Policy Committee

The Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee is meeting to receive presentations and updates on several social issues. They will hear a presentation on an Indigenous Women's Needs Assessment, as well as updates on the Shelter Development Strategy and the workplan for the National Inquiry into Missing Indigenous Women and Girls. The committee will also consider the consent agenda, which includes minutes from a previous meeting and a status of initiatives report.

• Presentation by Dr. Gabrielle Weasel Head on Indigenous Women's Needs Assessment
• Quarterly update on Shelter Development Strategy by Matthew Pitcher, Housing Solutions Coordinator
• Update on MMIWG Workplan by Echo Nowak, Indigenous Relations Specialist
• Consent agenda: minutes from 2023-12-14 and Status of Initiatives report

The Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee recommended that City Council receive several reports as information. The committee also proposed changing the Shelter Development Strategy update schedule from quarterly to twice per year.

• Approved March 21, 2024 agenda (3-0)
• Approved December 14, 2023 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Recommended removing interim sober shelter alternate sites from Status of Initiatives (3-0)
• Recommended Council receive Indigenous Women’s Emergency Shelter Needs Assessment Report (3-0)
• Recommended Council receive Shelter Development Strategy Quarterly Update (3-0)
• Recommended Council change Shelter Development Strategy updates from quarterly to twice annually (3-0)
• Recommended Council receive update on National Inquiry into Missing Indigenous Women and Girls Workplan (3-0)

Economic And Finance Standing Policy Committee

The Economic and Finance Standing Policy Committee is meeting to consider the Downtown Lethbridge Business Revitalization Zone 2024 budget and a lease for the Servus Sport Centre. The agenda also includes routine items like approving prior minutes and a status update on initiatives. Two confidential items are scheduled: an AHS contract negotiation update and the Servus Sport Centre lease discussion.

• Downtown Lethbridge Business Revitalization Zone 2024 Budget presentation and public correspondence
• Servus Sport Centre Lease discussion with Recreation Services Manager Travis Grindle
• Confidential AHS Contract Negotiations Update (verbal)
• Confidential Servus Sport Centre Lease item
• Approval of 2024-02-08 committee minutes and status of initiatives

The Economic and Finance Standing Policy Committee unanimously recommended that City Council approve the 2024 Downtown Business Revitalization Zone budget of $266,798.47. The committee also recommended approval of a lease agreement with the Lethbridge Soccer Association for the Servus Sport Centre for 2024-2028, with options for two five-year extensions. A closed meeting was held to discuss confidential AHS contract negotiations, the details of which remain undisclosed.

• Agenda adopted (8-0)
• February 8 minutes approved and Status of Initiatives received (8-0)
• Rocky Mountain Turf Club request referred to November budget review (8-0)
• Recommended approval of Downtown BRZ 2024 Budget of $266,798.47 (8-0)
• Recommended approval of Servus Sport Centre lease with LSA for 2024-28 (8-0)
• Closed meeting entered and adjourned to discuss confidential items (8-0)
• AHS contract negotiation discussions directed to remain confidential (8-0)

Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force, a sub-committee of the Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee, is meeting to hear presentations on the committee's current status and future, plus a report on community safety engagement. The agenda also includes adoption of prior minutes and a confidential strategic planning item. No decisions are listed on the public agenda.

• Presentation on current status of the committee
• Presentation on future of the committee
• Downtown Insights on Community Safety Engagement - What We Heard Report
• Adoption of minutes from 2024-02-22
• Confidential strategic planning item (FOIP Sections 23 and 24)

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force accepted a draft report regarding community safety engagement. The committee also amended its agenda to include discussions on the current status and future of the committee.

• Adopted amended agenda (Carried)
• Approved February 22, 2024 meeting minutes (Carried)
• Accepted draft report on Downtown Insights on Community Safety Engagement as information (Carried)

City Council

The Lethbridge City Council meeting on this date includes several items: a public hearing on amendments to the West Lethbridge Phase II Area Structure Plan and a land use bylaw for properties at 423 Caledonia Street W and 1220 10 Avenue S; a first reading of a land use bylaw amendment for 1730 10 Avenue S; a first reading of an elections bylaw amendment; discussion on a Lethbridge Police Commission bylaw appointment amendment; a report on 2024 public tax auction reserve bids; and a notice of motion for Green Shirt Day. The meeting also includes consent agenda items such as committee recommendations and status reports.

Lethbridge City Council referred a motion on downtown bicycle paths and lanes to the May 2, 2024 Assets and Infrastructure SPC for public input, and directed Administration to estimate the cost of removing all downtown bike lanes and report back by Q2 2024. Council also approved monthly financial reporting from the Lethbridge and District Exhibition starting with February 2024, and gave second and third reading to Bylaw 6439 (Elections Bylaw amendment) and Bylaw 6432 (West Lethbridge Phase II ASP amendment). A motion to expand the Lethbridge Police Commission's public members to seven was defeated 3-5.

• Referred downtown bicycle path and lane motion to May 2, 2024 Assets and Infrastructure SPC for public input (8-1)
• Directed Administration to estimate costs of removing all downtown bike lanes and report to Economic SPC by Q2 2024 (part of referred motion)
• Approved monthly Lethbridge and District Exhibition operating reports to Economic & Finance SPC starting April 11, 2024 (9-0)
• Defeated motion to direct Administration to prepare amending bylaw increasing Police Commission public members to seven (3-5)
• Approved Bylaw 6439 - Elections Bylaw amendment, second reading (6-3) and third reading (6-3)
• Approved Bylaw 6432 - West Lethbridge Phase II ASP amendment, second and third reading (8-0, Councillor Dodic absent)
• Approved Bylaw 6433 - Land Use Bylaw Amendment re: 423 Caledonia Blvd W & 1220 30 St W, second and third reading (8-0, Councillor Dodic absent)
• Ratified Shannon Frank and Sampath Walgama to Economic Development Lethbridge Board for 2-year terms (8-1)

Assets And Infrastructure Standing Policy Committee

The Assets and Infrastructure Standing Policy Committee is meeting to adopt the agenda, approve the minutes from the February 1, 2024 meeting, and review the status of initiatives. A verbal presentation on water conservation updates will be given by Joel Sanchez, Director of Infrastructure Services. No other substantive items are listed.

• Approval of 2024-02-01 Assets and Infrastructure SPC minutes
• Status of initiatives report as of 2024-03-07
• Verbal presentation on water conservation updates by Joel Sanchez, Director of Infrastructure Services

The committee adopted the meeting agenda and approved the minutes from February 1, 2024. Members received a verbal update on water conservation and a status report on initiatives.

• Adopted the March 7, 2024 meeting agenda (4-0)
• Approved February 1, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Received Status of Initiatives-2024-03-07 as information (4-0)
• Received verbal Water Conservation Update as information (3-0, 1 absent)

Audit Standing Policy Committee

The Audit Standing Policy Committee is meeting to adopt the agenda, approve prior minutes, and receive a status update on initiatives. The main business is two confidential reports: unaudited 2023 year-end financial information and the annual risk and controls update with the 2024 workplan, both closed under FOIP sections. Public participation is allowed for listed agenda items.

• 2023-12-06 Audit Committee Minutes for approval
• Status of Initiatives update
• Confidential: Unaudited 2023 Year End Financial Information (FOIP 23, 24, 26)
• Confidential: Risk and Controls Annual Update and 2024 Workplan (FOIP 24, 26)

The Audit Standing Policy Committee recommended that City Council approve various financial transfers, including utility reserve funding and a line of credit for levy shortfalls. The committee also reviewed the 2023 Unaudited Financial Information Report and the Risk and Controls Annual Report.

• Recommended $850,000 Waste Processing surplus allocation to Project E-7 Waste & Recycling Cell Development
• Recommended $240,000 for Community Social Development and $100,000 for Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design
• Recommended $1,174,000 transfer to Water Utility Reserve
• Recommended $826,000 transfer to Wastewater Utility Reserve
• Recommended $2.8M line of credit from Municipal Revenue Stabilization Reserve for Offsite Levy shortfall
• Recommended up to $1.2M from water surplus and $2.25M from wastewater surplus for utility servicing debt
• Recommended $5,000 from Real Estate Holdings reserve for land purchase closing costs
• Approved 2023-12-06 meeting minutes (4-0)

City Council

Lethbridge City Council meets publicly at 1:30 PM after a closed session. The agenda includes consent items on procurement, committee recommendations, and a first reading of an elections bylaw amendment, plus official business on land use bylaw timing and a lawlessness workshop. A public hearing is scheduled for 3:00 PM, and confidential reports cover a tax cancellation and lease amendment.

• Bylaw 6439: amendment to Elections Bylaw 5803 for first reading
• Bylaw 6437: Land Use Bylaw 6300 amendment regarding social uses
• Targeted Redevelopment Incentive municipal incentive for 413 5 Street South
• FRIAA grant application for Wildfire Preparedness Plan
• Water and Wastewater CIP amendment

City Council approved hosting a lawlessness workshop for mid-sized Alberta cities and authorized several infrastructure and community funding requests. The council also deferred proposed Land Use Bylaw amendments regarding social uses to be incorporated into a larger renewal project.

• Approved hosting a one-day lawlessness workshop on May 2, 2024, with up to $2,500 in funding
• Approved donation of three decommissioned Access-A-Ride vans to Rotary Club of Lethbridge Sunrise (valued up to $45,000)
• Approved $50,000 grant application and matching expenditure for a Wildfire Preparedness Plan
• Approved $15,000 in FCSS funding for Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Lethbridge and District
• Approved Targeted Redevelopment Incentive Program for 413 5 Street South for six years
• Approved 2022-2031 CIP amendments for WWTP and Water Treatment Plant detailed designs
• Approved $373.21 tax penalty cancellation for 1212 4 Ave S on compassionate grounds
• Referred Phase 1 Land Use Bylaw amendments regarding social uses to Administration for 2026 incorporation (6-2)

Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force, a sub-committee of the Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee, is meeting to discuss downtown safety issues. The agenda includes adoption of prior minutes, a reference item on Downtown BRZ questions and responses, and a confidential strategic planning session. No decisions are listed on the public agenda.

• Adoption of Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force Minutes - 2024-02-08
• Information item: Downtown BRZ Questions and Response to Date - Reference Purposes
• Confidential item: Strategic Planning (FOIP Sections 23 and 24)

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force met to approve previous minutes and conduct a closed session. The group decided that discussions regarding strategic planning will remain confidential under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

• Adopted the February 22, 2024 meeting agenda (Carried)
• Approved minutes from the February 8, 2024 meeting (Carried)
• Entered a closed meeting at 7:36 AM to discuss confidential matters (Carried)
• Adjourned the closed session at 8:59 AM (Carried)
• Directed that strategic planning discussions remain confidential per FOIP Sections 23 and 24 (Carried)

Governance Standing Policy Committee

The Governance Standing Policy Committee is meeting to receive updates and recommendations on several items, including the 2023 Electric Utility compliance report, a status update on renaming the Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden visitor centre and tea house, an update from the Lethbridge Reconciliation Advisory Committee, and proposed changes to the Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force terms of reference. The committee will also consider a confidential item on the Community Wellbeing and Safety Strategy.

• 2023 Electric Utility - Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) Compliance Report
• Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden Society request – renaming of Visitor Centre and Pavilion Tea House – status update
• Lethbridge Reconciliation Advisory Committee update
• Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force terms of reference update and appointments
• Confidential item: Community Wellbeing and Safety Strategy (CWSS) under FOIP Section 21

The Governance Standing Policy Committee recommended that City Council proceed with readings for Bylaw 6440. The committee also referred the Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force terms of reference to the City Solicitor for review.

• Recommended City Council approve the 2023 Electric Utility AUC Compliance Report (4-0)
• Recommended City Council give First Reading to Bylaw 6440 on March 12, 2024, and Second/Third Readings on March 26, 2024 (4-0)
• Referred Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force terms of reference and membership issues to City Solicitor for report back on March 28, 2024 (3-1)
• Referred confidential discussions regarding Community Wellbeing and Safety Strategy to Administration for future report (4-0)
• Approved November 11, 2023 meeting minutes and deferred Civic Culture Plan return date to April 25, 2024 (4-0)
• Received status update on Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden Society renaming request for information (4-0)

Safety And Social Standing Policy Committee

The Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee meeting scheduled for February 15, 2024, was cancelled because no agenda items were submitted. The notice of cancellation was provided by the Chair.

City Council

Lethbridge City Council meets February 13, 2024, with a closed session at 12:30 PM and public session at 1:30 PM. The agenda includes first reading of two bylaws (an Area Structure Plan amendment and a land use rezoning), second and third reading of a historic resource designation, a police commission appointment amendment, and a community support fund report. Several confidential items are also listed.

• Bylaw 6432: Amendment to West Lethbridge Phase II Area Structure Plan
• Bylaw 6433: Land Use Bylaw amendment for 423 Caledonia Blvd W & 1220 30 St W
• Bylaw 6425: Designation of Whitney Block, 411-3 Avenue South, as Municipal Historic Resource (2nd/3rd reading)
• Lethbridge Police Commission Bylaw – Appointment Amendment
• Community Support Fund – Government of Alberta report

City Council approved the sale of three parcels of city-owned land, including a $1.38 million sale to E-Wood Holdings and a $225,000 sale to Randi St. Amand. The council also authorized up to $200,000 to continue implementing recommendations from the 2021 Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women and Girls work plan. Additionally, the Whitney Block was designated as a municipal historic resource, and two zoning bylaws received first reading.

• Approved land sale of 6.00 acres at 3853 – 26 Avenue North to E-Wood Holdings Ltd for $1,380,000
• Approved land sale of 1161 & 1165 Abitibi Road West to Randi St. Amand for $225,000
• Approved confidential land sale #1 (details withheld)
• Approved $200,000 expenditure for Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) recommendations
• Designated Whitney Block at 411 – 3 Avenue South as a Municipal Historic Resource
• Granted First Reading to Bylaw 6432 (West Lethbridge Phase II ASP amendment)
• Granted First Reading to Bylaw 6433 (Land Use Bylaw amendment for 423 Caledonia Blvd W & 1220 30 St W)
• Directed Administration to prepare an amending bylaw for the Lethbridge Police Commission

Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force will hear presentations regarding data from several city services. These presentations include updates from the Lethbridge Police Service, Fire and EMS Service, and Community and Social Development.

• Presentation: Data from Lethbridge Police Service
• Presentation: Data from Fire and EMS Service
• Presentation: Data from Community and Social Development
• Review of Downtown BRZ questions
• Confidential strategic planning discussion

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force accepted data presentations from the Lethbridge Police Service, Fire and EMS Service, and Community and Social Development. The group decided these presentations should also be delivered to a Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee meeting. A portion of the meeting was held in a closed session to discuss strategic planning.

• Approved agenda for February 8, 2024
• Approved minutes from January 25, 2024
• Accepted Lethbridge Police Service data and directed it be presented to Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee
• Accepted Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services data and directed it be presented to Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee
• Accepted Community and Social Development report and directed data be presented to Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee
• Entered closed session at 8:52 AM for confidential matters
• Directed that strategic planning discussions from the closed session remain confidential

Economic And Finance Standing Policy Committee

The Economic and Finance Standing Policy Committee will meet to discuss and receive updates on several financial and infrastructure matters, including a water and wastewater capital improvement plan amendment, development-based incentives, and a targeted redevelopment incentive for a property. The agenda also includes presentations on a Rotary Club project and asset management, plus confidential items on surplus assets, tax cancellation, and a lease agreement.

• Water and Wastewater CIP Amendment presentation by Joel Sanchez
• Development Based Incentives Update (verbal) by CFO Darrell Mathews
• Targeted Redevelopment Incentive Policy Municipal Incentive – 413 5 Street South
• Community Wellbeing and Safety Strategy – Family and Community Support Services Allocation Request
• Confidential items: Disposition of Surplus Assets, Tax Cancellation Request, Amending Lease Agreement

The Economic and Finance Standing Policy Committee recommended that City Council approve donating three decommissioned Access-A-Ride vans, valued at up to $45,000 total, to the Rotary Club of Lethbridge Sunrise for its Los Amigos project in Mexico, funded from Council Contingency. The committee also recommended amending the 2022-2031 Capital Improvement Program to add detailed design for wastewater and water treatment plant upgrades, and approved a six-year Targeted Redevelopment Incentive for 413 5 Street South. It recommended allocating up to $15,000 in provincial FCSS funding to Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Lethbridge and District for a youth mentorship program, and recommended cancelling $373.21 in 2023 tax penalties for 1212 4 Ave S on compassionate grounds. All recorded motions carried unanimously (9-0).

• Recommended donating 3 decommissioned Access-A-Ride vans (up to $45,000) to Rotary Club of Lethbridge Sunrise for Los Amigos project (9-0)
• Recommended directing Administration to draft a policy on disposition of City assets by end of Q4 2024 (9-0)
• Recommended amending 2022-2031 Capital Improvement Program to add E-26 WWTP Process and Electrical Upgrades – Detailed Design and E-27 Water Treatment Plant Expansion – Detailed Design (9-0)
• Recommended approving six-year Targeted Redevelopment Incentive for 413 5 Street South under policy CC53 (9-0)
• Recommended allocating up to $15,000 in unallocated FCSS funding to Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Lethbridge and District for a Youth Mentorship Program (9-0)
• Recommended cancelling $373.21 in 2023 tax penalties for 1212 4 Ave S (roll 1204012120001) on compassionate grounds (9-0)
• Received Asset Management presentation and Development Based Incentives verbal update as information (9-0)
• Approved minutes of November 14, 2023 meeting and received Status of Initiatives as information (9-0)

Assets And Infrastructure Standing Policy Committee

The Assets and Infrastructure Standing Policy Committee is meeting to receive updates on the Micro-Mobility Pilot Program and water conservation efforts. The agenda also includes adoption of previous minutes and a status of initiatives report. No decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Micro-Mobility Pilot Program Update presentation by Adam St. Amant, Transportation Engineer
• Water Conservation Update presentation by Joel Sanchez, Director of Infrastructure Services
• Adoption of December 7, 2023 committee minutes
• Status of Initiatives report

The Assets and Infrastructure Standing Policy Committee recommended that City Council allow the continuation of shared micro-mobility services. The committee also received a water conservation update for information.

• Recommended City Council direct Administration to continue permitting shared micro-mobility services (4-0)
• Received Water Conservation Update as information (4-0)
• Approved December 7, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Adopted February 1, 2024 meeting agenda (4-0)

Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force is meeting to discuss data analysis and report generation for its work, and to review a door-to-door survey conducted by the Downtown BRZ. The agenda includes adoption of prior minutes, presentations, and a confidential strategic planning item. Most items are informational or discussion-oriented rather than final decisions.

• Scope of Work for Data Analysis and Report Generation presentation
• Door to Door Survey - Downtown BRZ presentation
• Downtown BRZ Questions - Reference Purposes for DLR Task Force
• Confidential Strategic Planning (FOIP Sections 23 and 24)

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force tabled a proposed door-to-door survey until data from other sources is provided. The group received a scope of work report for data analysis as information. A closed meeting was held to discuss strategic planning, with the discussion kept confidential under privacy laws.

• Agenda adopted (6-0)
• Previous minutes approved (6-0)
• Data analysis scope report received as information (6-0)
• Door-to-door survey tabled pending data (6-0)
• Closed meeting entered for strategic planning (6-0)
• Closed meeting discussion declared confidential (5-0)

City Council

Lethbridge City Council is meeting to consider several items, including a bylaw for the Downtown Business Improvement Area tax, affordable housing operating grants, water conservation options, and a funding plan for unsheltered homelessness response. The agenda also includes reports on procurement, the Transportation Master Plan, and a memorandum of understanding with the Lethbridge and District Exhibition. A closed session precedes the public meeting.

• Bylaw 6430 - Downtown Business Improvement Area Tax Bylaw (2nd and 3rd reading)
• Affordable and Social Housing Operating Grants (Councillor Crowson)
• Water Conservation Options (Acting Mayor Middleton-Hope)
• Winter 2023-24 Unsheltered Homelessness Response Funding Investment Plan
• Lethbridge and District Exhibition - Memorandum of Understanding

City Council approved a Memorandum of Understanding and $3.8M in total funding for the Lethbridge and District Exhibition. The council also adopted the 2023 Transportation Master Plan and directed administration to develop water conservation incentives.

• Approved $3.8M total funding for Lethbridge and District Exhibition (7-2)
• Adopted 2023 Transportation Master Plan in principle (8-1)
• Approved $1,045,971.30 from Building Safer Communities Fund for gun and gang activities (9-0)
• Approved $552,016.00 in federal funding for unsheltered homelessness response (9-0)
• Approved $202,483.80 reallocation for YWCA Harbour House expansion (9-0)
• Approved $2M in land plan amendments for lift station upgrades and school site prep (9-0)
• Approved purchase of 0.45 acres at 175 Canyon Boulevard West for $5,500 (9-0)
• Passed Downtown Business Improvement Area Tax Bylaw 6430 (9-0)

Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force is meeting to consider a proposal from HelpSeeker Technologies, revise its terms of reference, and hear questions from the Downtown Business Revitalization Zone. The agenda also includes approval of prior minutes and a confidential strategic planning item.

• Presentation by Alina Turner, CEO, re: HelpSeeker Technologies Proposal
• Submission by David Sarsfield, Deputy City Clerk, re: Revised Terms of Reference
• Submission by Sarah Amies, Executive Director-Downtown BRZ, re: Questions for the Committee
• Confidential item: Strategic Planning (FOIP Sections 23 and 24)

The Downtown Lawlessness Reduction Task Force recommended amendments to its Terms of Reference and the ratification of five members from the Downtown Business Revitalization Zone. The group also received a presentation from HelpSeeker Technologies and postponed discussions on BRZ questions and strategic planning to a later date.

• Approved the January 11, 2024 meeting agenda
• Approved minutes from the December 19, 2023 meeting
• Received HelpSeeker Technologies presentation as information
• Recommended amended Terms of Reference for the Task Force
• Recommended ratification of five Downtown BRZ appointments to the Task Force
• Postponed discussion on Downtown BRZ questions until January 25, 2024
• Directed that strategic planning discussions remain confidential
• Referred strategic planning matter to the January 25, 2024 meeting