Groundbreaking at a new commercial development on the corner of Altawana and Parkview drives. (CHAT News photo)

By Alex McCuaig

New Starbucks to anchor development

Small developments keeping city economic development going

Sep 24, 2020 | 5:01 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – Some of the city’s large developments have stalled in recent months as the pandemic coupled with the economic climate have clouded what’s in store next for the region and province.

But smaller developments have been happening in the city in recent months which may spur on the local economy until it can once again hit full throttle.

Ilsa Van der Westhuizen is one of those small developers whose taken a leap into investing into the local economy despite uncertain times.

But investing is always a tricky proposition.

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“I think it depends on first of all, how big the risk is and I think how personally invested you can be in such a risk,” said Van der Westhuizen. “I won’t say it’s the best time to take huge risks but I always felt there is never a best time.”

For her development, located on a long unused wedge of land located at the city’s busiest intersection of Altawana and Parkview drives, it’s been a two-year long endeavour but one which has been helped by already having its first tenant, Starbucks.

Van der Westhuizen says working with the city to develop such a project always comes with hiccups but gave the municipality high marks for helping to see it come to fruition.

It’s something Mayor Ted Clugston says comes down to a basic principle council is trying to adhere to when it comes to promoting both large and small developments in the city.

“Three words. Create the environment,” said Clugston. “I see our job as getting out of the way, as little red tape as possible, making sure the planning department is aligned.”

Interest rates are low, as are municipal taxes and utilities, said Clugston, three things which are garnering attention from outside the city.

“We’re also seeing interest from Calgary as well,” said Clugston. “We’re seeing Calgary investors looking at land here in Medicine Hat and, frankly I’m going to say it, mismanagement that has occurred in Calgary by the city council up there who has not made it as friendly for business by raising taxes.”

As for Van der Westhuizen, she believes history will repeat itself when it comes to a healthy Alberta economy and the ability for her project to succeed.

“When? No one can tell,” she said. “I just think we are at the mercy of the federal government at the moment and it’s unpredictable. So, it’s taking a risk but it’s a calculated risk hopefully and just keep moving forward.”