News profile1. What are your thoughts on city ownership of Saamis Solar, and what direction would you want to see council take with ownership of renewables?
Medicine Hat’s Saamis Solar project could offer new opportunities for the city’s energy future. Renewable energy shows promise, but the project’s future development is still open for discussion.
The city might consider different approaches, such as full municipal ownership, partnerships with private companies, or a combination of both. Each option could bring benefits and challenges, especially regarding costs, control, and community value.
It may be wise for the city to take a cautious approach. This could involve moving forward in stages and assessing progress along the way. Gathering more public input and studying how the solar project fits with Medicine Hat’s existing energy resources, including natural gas, would also be important.
Flexibility could be key as the city navigates changes in technology, economy, and regulations. Ideally, council would weigh options carefully and listen to community concerns before making any major decisions.
An open and measured discussion might help find a balanced path forward for renewable energy in Medicine Hat that fits the city’s unique needs and priorities.
2. What are your thoughts on the future of the energy division, specifically the concept of turning it into a municipally controlled corporation?
The future of Medicine Hat’s energy division is a key issue, and the idea of creating a Municipally Controlled Corporation (MCC) has generated plenty of debate. While the model has potential, it is not a step the city should take without careful consideration and clear public input.
Public ownership has long kept rates affordable, ensured accountability, and provided revenue for city services. But circumstances are changing. Local gas production is declining, regulations are more complex, and nearly half a billion dollars in infrastructure upgrades are on the horizon.
An MCC could offer advantages such as professional oversight, flexible governance, and better financing options, while keeping assets in public hands. However, there are real risks. Concerns include reduced transparency, higher costs, and weakened democratic control. Many residents worry that ownership could eventually slip away.
I believe the best path forward is to maintain direct city ownership while strengthening accountability. Tools such as a citizen-led Rate Review Committee and independent reviews can ensure utilities remain affordable, reliable, and reinvested back into Medicine Hat.
The MCC discussion will likely return in the future. Any decision then should be guided by proven benefits and our community values, not ideology or urgency.
3. How would you look to balance taxation with the operation costs of running a city, as well as the services provided to residents?
Balancing taxation with the costs of running Medicine Hat means keeping services strong while ensuring residents are not weighed down by rising property taxes. Since municipalities rely mostly on property tax revenue, every dollar collected must be managed wisely to deliver visible value back to the community.
Good financial management starts with careful budgeting and long-term planning. The city must regularly review spending, cut waste, and focus on projects that make the biggest impact. Core services such as public safety, road maintenance, recreation, and transit must be protected to keep Medicine Hat safe and vibrant.
Diversifying revenue is also key. That includes pursuing provincial and federal grants, forming local partnerships, and encouraging economic growth that strengthens the tax base. A broader economy means less pressure on existing taxpayers.
Transparency is equally important. Residents deserve to understand how their tax dollars are spent and to feel confident that their priorities shape council’s decisions. With efficiency, accountability, and steady investment, Medicine Hat can keep taxes fair while preserving the quality-of-life people expect.
4. How would you approach economic development and any need to incentivize business to come to Medicine Hat?
Medicine Hat’s future depends on building a strong, welcoming environment where businesses want to invest and where our community truly benefits. I believe economic development must begin with strengthening the basics: fair utility rates, straightforward permitting, and solid infrastructure.
Incentives are not just about dollars but about supporting businesses that share our values. I support targeted incentives that help companies hire locally, train apprentices, and grow in industries like clean energy and agriculture technology. But incentives must come with clear commitments.
At the same time, we cannot forget our small and medium-sized businesses. I want to see more support for local entrepreneurs through training, access to capital, and connections that help them succeed and stay here at home. Partnerships with Medicine Hat College and community groups can help prepare our workforce and spark innovation.
