Jason Drenth

The Building Safer Communities (BSC) program report details a multi-phased initiative by the City of Lethbridge, designed to address gaps in youth services and prevent criminal involvement. It focuses on reducing youth risk factors, strengthening community capacity through targeted interventions like case management for justice-involved youth, and broader prevention efforts including educator services and online safety initiatives. The program aims to foster positive youth outcomes, enhance their well-being, and inform future crime prevention strategies by building a safer and more resilient community.

The City Council meeting discussed Bylaw 6326 regarding the Utility Deferral Adjustment for Electricity. The bylaw establishes a rider for collecting payments related to the Utility Payment Deferral Program, which was created by the Alberta Government in response to the pandemic. The rider will be charged to all City of Lethbridge Electric Distribution Tariff customers on a per kilowatt-hour basis, as set by the Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO), and will expire by June 2022. The council gave the bylaw first, second and third readings.

The commission held several meetings covering a range of topics related to combative sports events and regulations. Discussions included the approval and review of permits for various events such as Rumble in the Cage and Pure Power Wrestling, as well as the consideration of new event types like slap fighting. The commission addressed issues related to fighter safety, weight classes, and licensing, and explored the possibility of operating as a travelling commission. They also discussed financial matters, equipment needs, and the implementation of a new online permit application process. Additionally, the commission reviewed reports from provincial group meetings and addressed correspondence related to medical suspensions and rule changes.

The meeting included discussions with Richard Arnold from Alberta Tourism & Sport regarding the potential structure of a Provincial Commission, regional representation, and fee structures. The commission addressed the submission of responses to the Tim Hague Fatality Inquiry Recommendations, new commission member identification and clothing, an updated contact list, and the order of a new blood pressure machine. Further discussion involved a meeting with a Branded Fighting Promoter, approval for a Branded Fight Card, an inquiry regarding a Pro-Am Boxing Card, ambulance service for events, and underage grappling match requirements. The financial statement and Pure Power Wrestling Report were reviewed, and upcoming events were noted.

The meeting covered the Branded Fighting Championship 4 Report, including adjustments to the application form regarding cutmen responsibility and reorganization of equipment storage. The Rumble in the Cage 69 permit application was discussed, focusing on the lineup approval meeting, confirmation of the physician and medical staff, and volunteer recruitment. The commission also reviewed the Alberta Tourism & Sport Minister Statement, the response to Hague Inquiry Recommendations, and discussed the Provincial Group Meeting. An amendment to Rule 6.2 regarding suspensions was presented for review. Other topics included a Quebec Commission request for a fighter license, the financial statement, a Pure Power Wrestling Report, and upcoming events. A motion was carried to purchase clothing and supplies as needed, and a policy request/inquiry was discussed.