A Moment with the Mayor: The urban evolution of Lloydminster

The City of Lloydminster is often referred to as ‘our town.’ But what does the term ‘urban’ really mean? Urban is a designation that applies to villages, towns, and cities. As an urban municipality, we work closely with our rural neighbours, including farmers, ranchers, and those living on acreages, as well as businesses located in rural areas.

The term ‘urban’ is often associated with essential services like the local post office, banks, or credit unions. Urban communities also tend to provide schools, medical clinics, fire stations, and hospitals. Many businesses and centers of commerce are found in urban areas, and sometimes even places of worship and grain terminals. This is a significant shift from the past when wooden grain elevators were located every six miles to help farmers transport their grain by horse and wagon.

At one time, more of the population lived in rural areas, and fewer people lived in places that had an ‘urban’ designation. However, as cities, towns, and villages grew, urban areas expanded. Over the past 120-plus years, one of the biggest changes has been the development of infrastructure, like water and sewer systems, that connect residents and businesses. Streets that were once gravel are now paved or oiled, and sidewalks and trails link the communities we call home. We’re grateful for the federal and provincial investments that have helped develop our post offices, schools, and hospitals.

Lloydminster’s journey from a small village in a territory, before the provinces of Saskatchewan and Alberta were even formed, to the thriving city it is today, is a testament to our community's growth and resilience.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed to the success and development of our city and province as we continue to meet the needs of our community every day.

Mayor Gerald S. Aalbers

City of Lloydminster