Ann Mitchell serves as city manager. (CHAT News)

By Eli J. Ridder | @EliRidder

CITY HALL

Medicine Hat points to lack of ‘corruption’ evidence in response to residents’ letter

Nov 15, 2023 | 4:30 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – Medicine Hat‘s city manager is highlighting efforts to improve communication while pointing to a lack of evidence there was any wrongdoing at city hall after concerns were raised by residents about governance, infighting and lack of transparency.

“I am saddened to hear allegations of corruption without any supporting evidence, despite our best efforts to provide information to those with concerns,” Ann Mitchell, the manager, said in a statement to CHAT News on Wednesday.

READ MORE: Read the full statement from city manager Ann Mitchell

A group of 285 residents sent a letter to Alberta’s premier and other officials Tuesday calling for an inspection of Medicine Hat’s operations, the taxpayer-owned utility COMCO and Mayor Linnsie Clark.

Cameron McNulty, one of the letter’s signatories, told CHAT News “we know that there’s some corruption” but was not able to pinpoint any specific cases where wrongdoing had occurred.

IN THE COMMUNITY

Medicine Hat's Mustard Seed adding new shelter spaces at Alberta government's request

15h ago

HOLIDAYS

Medicine Hat Kiwanis hosting Christmas dinner, applications due Friday

21h ago

IN THE COMMUNITY

'Compassionate Friends' offer peer support for bereaved in Medicine Hat

Dec 11, 2024

READ MORE: Read the full letter sent by Medicine Hat residents

“We take the responsibility of managing public tax dollars very seriously, and as such we are mindful of the commitment of time and resources required to address concerns one resident at a time,” Mitchell said.

“Instead, we demonstrate our accountability to the community through open meetings and discussion; and comprehensive, audited financial statements.”

Mitchell explained the city works “to improve communication and transparency on hundreds of topics” but acknowledged more can be done.

“We recognize that there is always room for improvement in these activities, and we aim to strike a balance between the expenses associated with investing in more resources to make improvements and the impacts that additional costs have on the taxpayer.”

Mitchell said conversation is important.

“As we navigate these complex times, the importance of nurturing and sustaining a culture of constructive conversation cannot be overstated,” she said.

Mitchell did not address several of the specific concerns raised in the residents’ letter including the frequent rate of staff turnover, a lack of details regarding COMCO’s direction and other issues.

The office of the minister of municipal affairs sent a statement to CHAT News indicating “The minister has received the letter. We are currently reviewing its contents before considering any action.”