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Lethbridge-East MLA Nathan Neudorf discussed a range of topics with residents. (Photo: Trent Fujita)

MLA Neudorf discusses affordability, tariffs and more with residents

Jan 30, 2025 | 12:45 PM

The MLA for Lethbridge-East got to meet with his constituents this week to discuss some of the most pressing issues on their minds.

The Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce hosted a Fireside Chat with Nathan Neudorf, who also serves as the Minister of Affordability and Utilities.

Neudorf says it was a well-attended event with nearly 100 people packing a conference room at the Sandman Hotel.

One of the main topics that the public wanted to discuss was the cost of living crisis and what the Government of Alberta is doing about it.

“I think they acknowledged the work that we have been doing and some of the successes we’ve seen,” says Neudorf.

As one example, Neudorf says electricity prices are down by approximately 39 per cent from their peak in 2024. Part of that is due to new rules that restrict electricity generators from withholding energy from the grid to inflate prices.

The minister believes that making electricity cheaper is one of the most effective ways to address affordability as a whole.

“Not only do we pay utilities at our homes, we pay for utilities when we go to the grocery store because they use a lot of electricity for their lights, refrigeration and freezers. If we can help those producers and suppliers by reducing their input costs on utilities, they can pass those savings onto people in Lethbridge and all Albertans,” says Neudorf.

Because the Government of Alberta is set to announce its 2025 budget in the next month or so, Neudorf was not able to give many specifics for new policies he is working on, but says some of them revolve around transmission, distribution and the overall affordability of the electric system.

READ MORE: Expect more legislation on affordability in 2025, says Neudorf

The other major topic of conversation was the possibility of tariffs being imposed by the U.S. on Canadian goods being shipped into that country.

Neudorf echoed sentiments from Premier Danielle Smith that retaliatory tariffs against American goods would not be a good way to approach the trade conflict.

Instead, he wants to have a more positive relationship with the U.S. and focus on the power of Alberta’s economy.

“As we strengthen our interprovincial trade and our supply chains and export to other markets, we all win in Canada, regardless of what the United States does,” says Neudorf.

The MLA also discussed local issues like expanding Lethbridge’s water and wastewater treatment plant, the new catheterization lab at Chinook Regional Hospital, funding for social services and money for Lethbridge’s post-secondary schools.

READ MORE: Alberta premier asks Ottawa to close its borders in wake of tariff threat

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