Neat to Know: July 15, 2024
Please enjoy this week's edition of Neat to Know, a roundup of City news, updates, and other important information. You can expect to see the week's most interesting content and even some that may have not been delivered through our regular channels.
Stay safe and cool during extreme heat
As periods of extreme heat continue, use these tips to stay safe and cool:
- Schedule activities for cooler parts of the day, and plan to take breaks in the shade.
- Visit cooler public places like the Medicine Hat Library, Big Marble Go Centre, or Medicine Hat Mall during operating hours.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty.
- Avoid beverages containing alcohol and caffeine, which can further dehydrate you.
- Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 on all exposed skin and reapply every two hours or more often if sweating.
- Wear a broad-rimmed hat, long-sleeved shirts, and UV-protective clothing.
For more information on staying safe in the heat, visit the Alberta Health Services website.
Council highlights
At yesterday's Council meeting, Deputy Mayor Robins expressed gratitude to Larry Randle, who recently resigned from the role of City Clerk, and thanked him for his service. Tarolyn Aaserud has accepted the role of City Clerk and will begin September 3, 2024. Council also discussed new growth opportunities presented in preparation of the 2025-2026 budget and requested scenarios with different tax implications below the rate of 5.6%.
Spray park hours extended
The spray parks in Saamis Rotary Park and Ross Glen Park will be open an extra three hours!
We’ve extended the hours at these two spray parks to run from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m., which matches the hours of our other two spray parks in Strathcona Island Park and Kiwanis Central Park. Previously Saamis Rotary and Ross Glen spray parks opened at 1 p.m. This adjustment is thanks to the successful water conservation efforts through measures imposed on City departments in Phase 1 of the Water Shortage Management Plan.
We will conduct another review on water conservation efforts at spray parks in late July and determine if other adjustments to the hours of operation are needed for August.
Turner Park closed for upgrades
We’ve started an upgrade project in Turner Park, located in Ross Glen, that will introduce several new features to add beauty and diversity to the park!
The Turner Park Irrigation and Landscape Upgrade project will add the following features:
- A trail system to improve accessibility
- A shade sail near the playground
- Upgraded irrigation systems
- Landscaping options that enhance the green space and reduce water consumption
Clean + Drain + Dry to stop the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species
Aquatic invasive species like Eurasian Watermilfoil, Whirling Disease, and Quagga and Zebra Mussels have the potential to cause serious harm to our environment, economy, and human health. That’s why it is important to clean, drain, and dry ALL your gear before transferring between waterbodies. This not only applies to watercraft, paddles and life jackets, but also to any construction materials, tools, equipment, personal protective equipment, and clothing for those working in water.
The next time you plan to cool off in one of our natural waterways, remember that we need you to Clean + Drain + Dry so they can remain open for recreational use and for the health of the aquatic environment.
medicinehat.ca/AquaticInvasiveSpecies
Leak survey moves into Riverside and NECH
The annual leak survey and infrastructure assessment on the City's gas distribution network moves into the neighbourhoods of Riverside and Northeast Crescent Heights next week. Inspectors will be in an around each yard in the area to survey pipe, risers, regulators, meters and more to ensure the continued safety and reliability of the natural gas delivery system. Crews will carry City of Medicine Hat photo identification, which they will present upon request.
Just announced: E by Candlelight
7:30 p.m. Saturday, November 30, 2024 at the Esplanade Arts and Heritage Centre
Genre: Classical
Experience the enchanting allure of "E by Candlelight," a mesmerizing concert where music by Kaylyn Légaré on violin and Christine Bootland on cello intertwines under the soft glow of countless flickering candles. Early bird pricing is in effect so don’t delay!
Historic First Street SE Walking Tour
10 a.m. Saturday, July 20, 2024 starting from the Esplanade Arts and Heritage Centre
For only $20 per person, step back in time to walk the tree-lined boulevard of First Street SE, once known as the Esplanade, and discover the stories of Medicine Hat's earliest settlers recounted by tour guide Sally (McGee) Sehn.
Altawana Drive set to open
Altawana Drive is set to re-open to motorists this weekend as work shifts to Phase 2 of the 7 Street NW and Altawana Drive Deep Utility Replacement project. Weather permitting, line painting on the Altawana Drive hill is expected to be completed and opened to the public by Saturday!
The replacement of aging cast iron water mains and clay sanitary mains will continue on 7 Street NW after the weekend. Phase 2, which runs from Altawana Drive to Tweed Avenue NW, is set to begin Monday, July 22.
When in drought: it's a matter of time!
Time matters when watering your lawn.
- Water early in the morning or later in the evening to reduce the chance of water evaporation from the hot sun.
- Windy? Choose an alternate time to water - following the current restrictions - to avoid water loss from the blowing wind.
Learn more here: Water Conservation, Shortage and Drought
Did you know that Medicine Hat travellers will soon enjoy a larger, more comfortable plane?
On May 13, 2024, WestJet announced that starting October 27, 2024, the original Saab 340B aircraft that has been flying to and from the Medicine Hat Regional Airport for years is being grounded and replaced with the De Havilland Dash 8-400 (Q400). The Dash 8 is newer, larger, and more comfortable with 78 seats comparted to the Saab's 34.
Book now for your enhanced travel experience from YXH!
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