Medicine Hat council approves rezoning along with other items and defers whistleblower policy

Administration said direct control zoning is appropriate given the site’s unique conditions, while the landowner indicated the change would allow for a single-family dwelling and shop within a limited developable area.

Council approved the bylaw unanimously.

The council also approved Bylaw 4871-2026, an administrative land title designation change related to existing flood mitigation berms.

The bylaw redesignates the affected lands as public utility lots to reflect the infrastructure’s use and maintenance needs, with administration saying the change does not affect zoning, public access or adjacent properties.

Following the public hearings, the council also passed Bylaw 4869-2026, reducing the fee for dishonoured payments from $44 to $10 effective April 1, 2026.

The change aligns with upcoming federal regulations capping non-sufficient funds fees and is expected to reduce city revenue by about $45,000 annually.

Another item on the agenda that the council discussed was sending a proposed whistleblower policy back to administration for revisions after raising concerns about definitions and scope, with a revised version expected to return by April 20.

A proposal related to urban hens has been deferred to the April 7 council meeting to allow for additional information.

The decision comes as councillors requested further details on regulatory requirements, enforcement considerations and potential impacts on neighbouring properties before making a decision.

Earlier in the meeting, council received a presentation from the REDI Enterprises/TAG Action Group outlining accessibility concerns across the city, including issues with sidewalks, transit services, crosswalk visibility and access to public and private buildings.

The group comprises individuals with developmental disabilities and community partners working together to build inclusive communities and recognize the strengths and contributions of people of all abilities.

During the presentation, the group emphasized barriers faced by residents with mobility challenges and called for more consistent standards and upgrades, particularly ahead of the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games coming to Medicine Hat.

Administration said some improvements are already underway or planned, including transit stop enhancements, facility accessibility audits and ongoing infrastructure upgrades, while noting broader changes would require phased investment and further review.

The council approved extending the term of interim city manager Joe Hutter to Oct. 1, 2026, and directed administration to prepare amendments to establish a budget committee aimed at improving fiscal oversight.

Council also received an update on local air service after WestJet announced it will end flights between Medicine Hat and Calgary in June, as administration said efforts are underway to attract a new carrier to meet regional demand.

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READ: WestJet to cancel flight service with Calgary for Medicine Hat and Lethbridge

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by Jett Schwaier

Medicine Hat council approves rezoning along with other items and defers whistleblower policy

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