As Ann Mitchell has launched a new lawsuit against the City of Medicine Hat and its mayor, she has accepted a new job. (Photo: CHAT News Today)

By Jesse Gill

New role announced for former Medicine Hat City Manager Mitchell as lawsuit against City, Mayor emerges

Jan 2, 2026 | 8:27 AM

Former Medicine Hat City Manager Ann Mitchell was announced as the new Chief Administrative Officer for Lac Ste. Ann County on Tuesday.

The same day that the CBC reported that she is suing both the City of Medicine Hat and Mayor Linnsie Clark in separate filings with Calgary’s Court of King’s Bench.

It was also reported that the suit against Mayor Clark totals $897,000, for defamation and contract interference, claiming damage to her reputation. With a $465,000 ask from the City for both pay in lieu of notice and aggravated damages.

The City of Medicine Hat has confirmed the lawsuits.

“The City is aware of the two lawsuits that have been filed and intends to submit a Statement of Defence in each matter, disputing the allegations against the City and Mayor Clark,” the City’s statement read.

Nighttime construction on Hwy 3 in Lethbridge starts April 17

Apr 17, 2025

SASHA launches #BuyABed fundraiser to support vulnerable Lethbridge residents

Apr 04, 2025

$20K grants available: TELUS STORYHIVE Pan-Asian Edition opens applications April 1

Mar 18, 2025

“An extension of time to file statements of defence, which are common in litigation, has been granted by the plaintiff’s counsel in both matters.”

Mitchell was officially terminated as the City Manager in Medicine Hat during a special council meeting on Oct. 10, 2025.

She was found to be in violation of the City’s Respectful Workplace Policy.

READ: Medicine Hat city council officially terminates city manager Mitchell (Oct. 10, 2025)

Mitchell was officially appointed to her role in Medicine Hat on Dec. 19, 2022, and started the job in February 2023.

Before her termination with the City, she had been placed on a temporary paid leave by the Council during a special meeting on July 28, 2025.

READ: Medicine Hat city manager Mitchell placed on temporary paid leave by council (July 29, 2025)

Her new role with the Lac Ste. Anne County, located northwest of Edmonton, is set to start on Jan. 12, 2026.

A news release from Lac Ste. Anne County stated that she has been appointed to a five-year term, supporting long-term stability as Council advances its strategic vision.

The County Reeve Jurgen Preugschas welcomed the appointment.

“Council is very pleased to welcome Ann Mitchell to Lac Ste. Anne County,” said Reeve Preugschas in a statement.

“Following a comprehensive recruitment process, Council is confident that Ann will bring the experience, professionalism, and collaborative leadership needed to guide our administration and support Council in delivering effective services to our residents.”

Mitchell said in a statement that she is extremely pleased to be joining Lac Ste. Anne County.

“This is a community with strong values and great potential, and I look forward to leading the organization as we implement Council’s vision and priorities for the community,” Mitchell said.

Michell had previously served as the CAO for Lethbridge County from 2018-2022.