Moment with the Mayor

Residents, business owners, and neighbours often ask: Is the city growing? Are we gaining or losing residents? Several factors help determine the answer.

It's hard to believe March has arrived with daytime temperatures above zero. The snow piles are shrinking, and this past weekend felt warm. Signs of spring are visible—water is pooling and running down the streets, and farming friends report that hilltops are starting to show through to catch the sunshine.

Your Property Assessment Notice should have arrived in your mailbox. This annual notice, printed on blue paper, is a legislated process that the City of Lloydminster is required to carry out.

Each year, property owners receive a Notice of Assessment from the City of Lloydminster. This document has been a topic of discussion for some time, and since being elected as Mayor, I have had many conversations about it with residents.

Waste is generated daily in both homes and businesses. We are fortunate to have options for managing our waste streams, and how we utilize these options can have a significant impact on our wallets, the environment, and future generations.

Neighbours have always been a part of our lives. It’s interesting how a simple fence can separate them—whether it’s wire or post rails in rural settings or wooden boards providing more privacy in urban areas. Historically, fences have helped define property lines, ensuring that my things stay on my side and yours on yours.

I’m often asked, “How does the city deal with snow?” We know it’s likely to come every year, but the questions of when, how much, and whether it’ll bring wind keep us guessing. The answer is both simple and complex.

We have countless reasons to be grateful and to support the organizations that make our community stronger. With endless opportunities to develop our skills and share our talents, we can come together to help those in need.

A common question I receive from residents is about conflict of interest at council meetings: What is it, and how is it managed?

As I began writing this article, I glanced outside and noticed the Christmas season has truly arrived. Decorations and lights are all around us, brightening the short days and long nights, thanks to the efforts of neighbours and businesses. The snow has made this year especially memorable for all ages.

The term "infrastructure gap" has been a frequent topic of conversation within the community. In Lloydminster, infrastructure includes a wide range of essential items such as water and sewer lines, treatment facilities for water and wastewater, roads, public works buildings, and facilities for police and fire services.