Lethbridge Minute: Tree Surrounds, Land Acknowledgement, and a Windrow Assistance Service

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

This Week In Lethbridge:

• The Council Calendar shows a Tuesday meeting of the Economic and Finance Standing Policy Committee, but no agendas or times are available yet.
  
  
• Residents are being invited to apply for open positions on the City's Boards, Commissions, and Committees (BCCs). There are currently openings in ten different BCCs, including the Animal Welfare Committee and the Lethbridge Police Commission, which cover a range of advisory and decision-making roles. Interested individuals should review the BCC toolkit for details on eligibility and terms. Applications are due by October 4th, 2024.
  
  
• The City is launching a new Snow Route Windrow Assistance Service pilot project this winter to help residents, especially those with mobility issues, manage snow accumulation on their curbs and driveways. This service will create a clear passage through the snow piles left by plowing, though residents will still need to handle their sidewalks and other areas themselves. Interested residents can sign up for the service from September 16th to 27th, 2024, by calling 311. This time frame is the only available window to sign up! The service will be available for the 2024-25 winter season, with one passage per property provided up to three days after snow routes are plowed.

Last Week In Lethbridge:

• The City of Lethbridge has released a more inclusive Land Acknowledgement, recognizing both the Blackfoot people and other Indigenous groups who have lived in the area. The updated statement respects the Blackfoot heritage and acknowledges the Métis and all Indigenous peoples in Lethbridge. Approved by Council in early July, this new acknowledgement was developed with input from local Indigenous organizations and the Reconciliation Lethbridge Advisory Committee.
  
  
• New tree surrounds were placed in downtown Lethbridge, designed for accessibility, safety, and cost efficiency. The previous tree grates were causing issues, such as damaging trees and creating tripping hazards. This summer, the Urban Revitalization and Parks departments tested a new bonded aggregate solution, using a clear resin mixed with pea gravel. This method is highly permeable, allowing trees to receive water easily, and is fully accessible for wheelchairs. The new system is also more affordable, costing less than traditional grates, and has been positively received for its aesthetics. Around 20 tree wells were upgraded this summer, with plans to complete another 100 in the future.
  
  
• The Alberta Sheriffs have once again closed a known drug house in Lethbridge, this time at 4518 28 Avenue South. The Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods (SCAN) Unit obtained a court order to shut down the property, following 13 complaints about drug activities since June 2022. Recent searches by the Lethbridge Police Service and RCMP uncovered significant quantities of illegal drugs, stolen items, and dangerous weapons. The property will be closed for 90 days, with all tenants required to vacate. The owner must ensure no further illegal activities occur, with additional conditions in place until August 2026.

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