CHAT File Photo

By Regan Tate

Plans unveiled to build a stronger Medicine Hat

Jan 24, 2023 | 3:34 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – Medicine Hat is one of four communities and the only one in Canada chosen to participate in the inaugural Strong Towns Community Action Lab (CAL).

Strong Towns was established by Charles “Chuck” Marohn, a civil engineer and city planner. The non-profit organization based in Minnesota seeks to change the way communities develop including advocating for good city planning in all realms including transportation, residential neighbourhoods, active transportation and city infrastructure.

Marohn said “Medicine Hat jumped out at us for demonstrating strong leadership with a proactive vision for the community and staff with a deep commitment to curiosity and thoughtfulness. I’ve circled this community as one with great upside potential.”

The Community Action Lab is a two-year project designed to introduce Strong Town ideas to the community, shift the conversation, and kickstart the implementation of a Strong Towns approach.

City Council approved a major operating expense of $212,000 in October of 2022 to take part in the exclusive program.

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As part of the CAL, the first of three main public engagement events planned for 2023 is scheduled for Tuesday, February 7th at 7 p.m. in the main theatre at the Esplanade. Attendance is free but registration is required. Register here or visit medicinehat.ca/strongtowns.

“We are thrilled to be one of only a handful of communities selected to participate in this initiative,” said Medicine Hat Mayor Linnsie Clark in her annual State of the City address on Jan. 24 at the Medicine Hat Lodge. “The Community Action Lab is a bold initiative that will support us in becoming a resilient and sustainable community.”

An important priority of the CAL is building community dialogue.

“The Strong Towns content is designed for a broad audience with an interest in making their city better,” said Rochelle Pancoast, managing director of the city’s Strategic Management and Analysis division and interim city manager. “Success depends on participation from not only city planners, but all residents, business owners, community groups, and any other interested stakeholders.”

The other three communities selected to engage in the carefully customized, two-year relationship with Strong Towns include Lake County, Florida; Chisholm, Minnesota; and Norman, Oklahoma.

To learn more about Strong Towns and the Medicine Hat Community Action Lab, visit medicinehat.ca/strongtowns.