As a candidate for Medicine Hat City Council, I’ve been listening closely to the concerns about the recently approved 5.6% property tax increases for both 2025 and 2026. In coffee shops, residents have shared their worries about the strain on their homes, their budgets, and their peace of mind. I believe Medicine Hat deserves leadership that combines fiscal responsibility with compassion.

Putting Community First—Not Partisanship

My philosophy is straightforward: real solutions come from balance, not ideology. I will not support tax hikes and I will not recklessly cut city services. Instead, I promise to put residents at the heart of every decision.

My Principles for Fiscal Policy

Medicine Hat must remain a livable city for families, seniors, and those on fixed incomes. Property taxes and utility rates should rise in a predictable way and only as much as necessary. After all, it’s your money.

The city has a duty to show every resident, clearly and simply, where tax and utility dollars are spent. There should be no mystery in the budget. Before turning to taxpayers, Council must find efficiencies within city operations by cutting waste, streamlining processes, and ensuring money is directed where it’s needed most.

Rethinking Taxes and Utilities

Future changes to taxes and utilities should be tied to inflation and introduced gradually. Families deserve the ability to plan ahead rather than be caught off guard. I’ll also fight for expanded support for vulnerable neighbours, including seniors and low-income households, through property tax rebates and utility assistance.

Utility bills should reflect actual costs, no more and no less. We must stop using utility revenues as a hidden tax and instead focus on sustainable pricing that funds both maintenance and innovation.

Looking Ahead

We need to protect the services that make Medicine Hat a wonderful place to live while also keeping life affordable for everyone. This is the right path forward: responsible stewardship, honest communication, and a city government that serves all residents, not just a few voices.

I’m running for council to build a city where taxes are fair, services are strong, and city hall is open and accessible. Together, we can achieve this balance.

If you agree, I invite you to join our campaign and help play a part in shaping Medicine Hat’s future. Let’s find common ground and move our community forward.