File photo of the Lethbridge Airport. (Lethbridge News Now)

By Justin Goulet

City Council votes to endorse new Airport Incentive Framework

Jan 19, 2022 | 11:38 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Lethbridge City Council has voted 7-2 to endorse a new Airport Incentive Framework.

The primary goals of the plan are to encourage the continued growth of passenger traffic at the Lethbridge Airport, improve the net operating margin and negotiate agreements for establishing new routes to and from the terminal.

Additionally, council approved the City Manager or designate to discuss potential agreements with airlines regarding future options for passengers flying in and out of Lethbridge.

As part of Tuesday’s resolution, Council also approved the creation of an initial fund, not to exceed $1 million, to facilitate negotiations with any interested parties. That work is to be funded through the Municipal Revenue Stabilization Reserve (MRSR).

Mayor Blaine Hyggen said, “the approval of this framework touches on several key items outlined in Council’s Action Plan for 2022.”

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“This includes the airport performance and governance evolution which will help us achieve the strategic goal of economic prosperity, so Council is thrilled to support of this incentive framework.”

Last August, the previous City Council voted to keep managing the Lethbridge Airport as a City department. Lisa Trent, Director of Corporate and Customer Services said, “having City Council’s leadership and support is essential as we have further conversations with airlines about the importance of future travel options at the Lethbridge Airport and positioning it as a regional hub.”

“Since acquiring the airport in 2018, the City’s goal has been to enhance and expand operations. Despite ongoing challenges with the pandemic, we are making great strides towards our goals.”

The new Airport Incentive Framework is aimed at building on the City’s $2.6 million investment, which was used to leverage an additional $23 million in provincial and federal grant funding, for a variety of infrastructure projects. Further airfield and pavement rehabilitation upgrades include incorporating LED lighting to the airfield lighting system, which will save on energy consumption and ongoing maintenance costs.

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City Councillor John Middleton-Hope said, “when Council toured the airport renovations late last year, we were all encouraged by the progress that has already been achieved.”

“Tuesday’s endorsement for the incentive framework is focused on continuing to bring further value to the airport moving forward.”

More information on the new framework process will be developed and shared with prospective partners going forward.