Leah Prestayko

This Strategic Plan for the City of Medicine Hat outlines Council's commitment to guide decisions and investments for a strong, sustainable, and prosperous future. It focuses on four strategic priorities: Fiscal Responsibility, Economic Growth through Asset Expansion, Organizational Effectiveness and Reliable Services, and Strong Community Connections. The plan aims to achieve measurable progress through accountable leadership, sound financial stewardship, and strategic investment in economic growth and resilient infrastructure, ultimately creating opportunity, prosperity, and quality of life for its residents.

The Council meeting involved several key agenda items, including councillor announcements regarding various community events and networking initiatives. A public hearing was held for Bylaw 4888-2026, which involves a municipal reserve designation change to facilitate the sale of property to the Department of National Defense; the bylaw subsequently received second and third readings. Additionally, a motion regarding a water protection petition was introduced. Finally, the meeting included a presentation and discussion on the 2027-2030 Strategic Plan, outlining priorities such as fiscal responsibility, economic growth, organizational effectiveness, and community connection.

The meeting focused on action items including amendments to the indemnification policy, which will have an expected report date in the third quarter of 2026. Additionally, the committee decided to cancel the upcoming July 14th meeting due to scheduling conflicts and confirmed the next meeting date for August 11th. The committee also moved into a closed session to discuss matters related to section 29 of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

The committee meeting featured a presentation from Unison regarding their ongoing operations at the Viner Centre. Key discussion topics included the success of the active aging program, the expansion of the Meals on Wheels service, the role of volunteers, and the implementation of the Viner Vintage Transport program for seniors. The committee also discussed the senior support program, which offers referral services and income tax clinics, and the elder abuse case management program, which focuses on providing safety and advocacy for vulnerable seniors. Future plans include expanded intergenerational programming and increased bistro operations.

The council meeting included announcements regarding the upcoming Special Olympics Canada Summer Games and the recognition of World Elder Abuse Day. Discussions took place concerning the Fair Entry Program, which provides reduced transit fares for low-income households, and updates were provided on tree-planting initiatives in public spaces funded by federal grants. A delegation from the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games committee presented comprehensive logistics for the event, covering athlete transportation, accommodation strategies, meal services, and the Healthy Athletes screening program.