Al Beeber running for Lethbridge City Council

I believe we all have a responsibility to contribute to the community in which we live because by doing so, we make our community stronger, and in a small way, that makes our country stronger. I’ve been writing about the issues and concerns of our residents for many years, and with my knowledge of city council and City Hall, I’ve gotten what I would consider an insider’s view on how our governance and administration work. I believe through that knowledge, I have insights into the issues that matter with residents, and I want to help lead our city to a more prosperous future and help to continue the growth of this city as a place that is inclusive and welcoming to all.

What personal or professional experience do you have that you feel would make you a good city councillor?

As a person who has closely followed and reported upon local governance issues and who has developed strong relationships with this community since 1987, I am a person with in-depth knowledge of the issues impacting our future, and, for that matter, the present.

What would be a few of your top priorities if elected?

Council as a whole has to set its priorities, which need to reflect the diverse needs of our community. And needs, to me, have to be the focal point of the next four years, given the economic situation we have and the costs taxpayers will have to bear with the Exhibition and other matters. I will advocate for keeping the Municipal Revenue Stabilization Reserve at a level our City finance department feels comfortable with and will advocate for using it only on matters that are essential to preventing important services from being disrupted. We need to densify housing while considering the impact on residential neighbourhoods and help developers provide affordable housing in a timely manner.

We also need to ensure Fire/EMS has the tools they need to ensure their response times are up to national safety standards. Quicker responses to emergencies not only save lives and reduce the impact of fires but also can lower the potential for peripheral damage. Supporting Fire/EMS is critical.

I also believe we need to recognize the importance of the arts, which contribute not only culturally but also economically. I believe [a] strong cultural community plays a role in attracting residents and has a tourism and economic development component as well.

We also need to again consider instituting a ward system for elections and advocate with other levels of government for a third bridge crossing the Oldman River because delays are not just an inconvenience to west side residents but could have impacts on health for those on medication, it could impact the ability of people whose children are in care facilities to pick them up and it could discourage residential and commercial development on the westside. And these delays also slow the flow of commercial goods to market. It’s unfeasible for city residents to carry the tax burden of such a crossing on those shoulders, so it’s essential robust discussions begin with other levels of government.

And like any corporation, we need to examine efficiencies.

Where can people learn more about you and your platform?

Residents can contact me at my campaign email address – beeber@telus.net, and I am in the process of setting up a campaign Facebook page, Instagram account and website, which will be operational shortly.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I believe we, as a council, need to promote Lethbridge as a premium community to attract new business and residents, including much-needed medical staff. We do that by ensuring that spending is judicious and keeping tax rates at a level that [isn’t] perceived to be unaffordable. By doing so, we will attract new commerce and residents. And we need to let people know everyone is welcome and has a place in this wonderful city we call home.

More coverage of the 2025 Municipal Election is available here.

by David Opinko

Al Beeber running for Lethbridge City Council

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