By Aaron Mahoney (@Mahones93 on Twitter)

Watson running for city council with a focus on the environment and transit

Sep 17, 2017 | 11:05 AM

LETHBRIDGE – Stephnie Watson is running for city council because she wants to get rid of the ‘one solution fits all’ attitude, and take on the challenge of creating comprehensive policies that will make a difference moving forward.

As a resident of Lethbridge for 15 years, Watson values the diversity, culture, and breadth of activities the city has to offer.

“I think what draws me most to Lethbridge is the amount of different activities and groups of people you get to meet through various organizations. We’re very fortunate to have a mix of cultures, schools, businesses, research centres and industrial groups, who attract a diverse range of people,” Watson said, adding these people individually and collectively contribute to the unique tapestry that is Lethbridge.

Currently, Watson is pursuing a Master’s degree in Environmental Science through the University of Lethbridge. Her thesis is focused on transit use in Lethbridge and its environmental impacts, which ended up spurring Watson to run for a position on city council.

“Issues with the city’s Transit Master Plan, currently before council, highlight that related problems seem to be growing, becoming more complex and difficult as the city grows,” Watson continued. “I think it’s time that we look at planning alternatives and start thinking of other ways to use our transit system outside of traditional norms. I would like Lethbridge to become a premier example for sustainable, effective transit use,” she stated.

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In addition to her academic work, Watson is also actively involved in the community.

She volunteers with numerous organizations, including Lethbridge Search and Rescue and the Club in Copperwood, and is frequently seen volunteering at community events.

Environmental Sustainability is another focus of Watson’s platform, but she’s also passionate about urban development, emergency preparedness, recycling and composting, arts and culture, and professional youth retention.

“These are the issues municipalities have control over and these are things that can be accomplished without large budgets or red tape,” Watson said.