Lethbridge Minute: Mayoral Reflections, Holiday Generosity, and Happy New Year

Lethbridge Minute - Your weekly one-minute summary of Lethbridge politics

This Week In Lethbridge:

• There are no Council or Committee meetings this week. Regularly scheduled meetings will resume in mid-January.
  
  
• Tuesday is New Year’s Eve! There will be a Neon Night New Year's Eve Party at Agri-food Hub & Trade Centre as part of Glow Lethbridge. A live DJ will start the event at 4:00 pm, and there will be an 8:00 pm countdown to "midnight." Guests are encouraged to wear bright neon attire. Tickets are available online.
  
  
• As we ring in the New Year, we’re reflecting on the work we’ve accomplished and the challenges ahead. To kick off 2025 strong, we’ve set a goal to raise $10,000 by midnight on December 31st. This crucial fundraiser will ensure we can continue our mission in the coming year. If you’ve valued our efforts and want to see us achieve even more, please consider making a donation today. Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference, and we’re incredibly thankful for your support. Click here to donate and help us start the year on the right foot. Thank you and Happy New Year!

Last Week In Lethbridge:

• In a year-end interview, Mayor Blaine Hyggen emphasized the City's focus on financial restraint and prioritizing "needs over wants" as Council faces the challenge of maintaining the Agri-food Hub and Trade Centre without increasing taxes. The unexpected operational costs uncovered by a third-party review depleted contingency funds, prompting a push for cost savings and efficiency to rebuild reserves. Enhanced checks and balances for major projects are also a top priority to avoid similar financial strains. Looking ahead, Hyggen says housing is a key priority for Council. He acknowledged the need for improved communication with residents about zoning changes and development plans to address community needs effectively.
  
  
• Lethbridgians were generous this holiday season - both with their money and their time! The Lethbridge Salvation Army raised over $232,000 in its 2024 Christmas Kettle Campaign, exceeding their $220,000 target. Funds will support programs such as Toys for Tots, food assistance, and year-round initiatives. And volunteers at Chinook Regional Hospital brought festive cheer to patients through "Operation Christmas Stocking." The initiative included delivering handmade stockings filled with treats, singing carols, and visits from therapy dogs. Approximately 300 stockings were distributed, funded by the Friends of Chinook Regional Hospital.
  
  
• Thirteen new officers who graduated from the cadet training program at Lethbridge Polytechnic will be joining the Lethbridge Police Service, with additional officers headed to the Blood Tribe Police and Canadian National Railway Police. The program, which grants a post-secondary credential alongside police training, is the only one of its kind in the province. Lethbridge Polytechnic has also introduced a new credit agreement with police services across Western Canada to help future cadets enhance their qualifications.

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