Mayor Clark outlines initiatives for year ahead at State of the City Luncheon

During her speech, Clark said, “The 2025 living wage calculations show we have the lowest living wage of the Alberta municipality surveyed. And Money Sense recently ranked Medicine Hat as having one of the lowest annual incomes necessary to live a comfortable life.”

Clark also emphasized the city’s ownership of its gas and electric utilities, saying, “We can design rate structures that support industrial growth, we can smooth volatility for residents, and we can align our energy choices with our economic goals, instead of waiting to see what someone else decides.”

Another topic Clark addressed was her desire for the council to be more involved with Medicine Hat College, local school divisions, and employers to create clearer pathways into trades and technical careers.

Clark also addressed the ongoing debate over recreation infrastructure, saying the council must balance community needs with financial realities as existing facilities near the end of their lifespan.

As the council enters strategic planning, Clark said housing, workforce development, downtown revitalization and community wellness are among the council’s top priorities, and must be viewed as interconnected rather than separate issues, but further details have not been announced.

“We’ll probably not come out with a final version of the strategic plan until late spring, early summer, but I’m definitely looking forward to the process,” Clark said.

The mayor’s address concluded with a call for shared stewardship, urging residents to take an active role in shaping the city’s future.

As part of the event, the Kiwanis Club of Medicine Hat announced a $200 donation to the Root Cellar Food and Wellness Hub as the mayor’s chosen charity.

Executive Director Melissa Mullis was welcomed to the stage after the announcement.

(Image Credit: Jett Schwaier/CHAT News)

Before the event concluded, the Kiwanis Club encouraged residents to volunteer for the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games, which Medicine Hat will host in August.

To volunteer, visit the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games website.

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READ: Medicine Hat recognizes donations and support for next year’s Special Olympics

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by Jett Schwaier

Mayor Clark outlines initiatives for year ahead at State of the City Luncheon

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