Neat to Know: October 8, 2026
Neat to Know is 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.
Thanksgiving hours
Hours and services at various City of Medicine Hat facilities will be affected by the Thanksgiving statutory holiday on Monday, Oct. 12.
Visit our holiday hours page to view what to expect for City facilities and Waste Collection on Thanksgiving Day.
Tree removal, planting
We're revitalizing the network of trees in Riverside Veterans' Memorial Park!
Residents may have noticed work start on Monday as crews remove several dead and/or dying trees around the park.
While we're removing 12 trees, we'll be planting more than 12 around the park in their place this spring!
New trees revitalize the tree network, and adding more trees enhances it. This work is part of our ongoing commitment to maintain a safe, healthy, and sustainable urban forest.
Read our public advisory to learn more.
Fire Prevention Week
Fire Prevention Week runs from October 4 to 10, and Medicine Hat Fire and Emergency Services is sharing some helpful tips and information for residents.
Where you charge matters
Where you charge your devices matters. Phones, tablets, laptops, and other rechargeable devices should always be charged on a hard, flat surface where heat can safely dissipate.
Avoid charging devices on beds, couches, pillows, or other soft surfaces where heat can build up, and never leave devices charging overnight or unattended. Follow the manufacturer’s charging instructions and unplug your device or remove the battery once it is fully charged. A few simple charging habits can help reduce the risk of battery-related fires.
And remember batteries never belong in the garbage. Recycle used batteries at an approved drop-off location. Visit recycleyourbatteries.ca to find a location near you.
October 5, 2026 City Council meeting
During Monday’s Council meeting, several important decisions were made that support housing, economic development and the celebration of local achievement.
- Council approved two bylaws that will enable the conversion of the Ranchmen Motel and Sundek Motel into a multi-unit housing development, supporting affordable housing opportunities in our community.
- Council approved a Development Permit for a package distribution and trans-shipment facility for Amazon, operated by a local logistics contractor. The facility will serve residential and commercial customers within approximately a 30-minute driving radius of Medicine Hat
- Council approved the induction of five new members into the Arts and Culture Legacy Gallery:
- Harvey and Loretta Fix
- Dr. Deborah Forbes
- Luke Lindoe
- James Marshall
- Mark Sakamoto
PD Days for Students Ages 5-12 at the Esplanade
Oct. 19 and Dec. 18 | 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. | Esplanade
Looking ahead to the next school PD Days? The Esplanade's PD Day program for children ages 5-12 runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and offers a full day of creative, hands-on learning.
Upcoming sessions take place October 19 and December 18, with additional dates available online. Participants explore exhibitions, create art projects, and enjoy complementary programming at the Medicine Hat Public Library, all in one engaging day.
Darcy Oake Illusionist
Thursday, Oct. 15 | 7:30 p.m. | Esplanade
World-renowned illusionist Darcy Oake is bringing his full-scale theatrical illusion show to the Esplanade, blending mind-bending magic, cinematic storytelling, and impossible feats that will leave you questioning reality.
Plus, a limited Meet and Greet Upgrade is available and includes early venue access, priority merch shopping, a photo with Darcy, an exclusive up-close illusion experience, and commemorative VIP keepsakes.
Learn more and purchase tickets here.
Halloween Sale: 25% OFF 4-PACKS for select shows!
From murder ballads to circus thrills, enjoy 25% off two must-see theatre experiences this October when you purchase 4-packs of tickets!
Bury the Hatchet: Lizzie Borden Took an Axe...
October 28 | 7:30 p.m. | Esplanade
Lizzie Borden's infamous story gets a fresh twist in this award-winning production, blending bluegrass, dark humour, murder ballads, and macabre storytelling into a unique theatrical experience. Get tickets here.
Sophie's Surprise 29th
October 30 | 7:30 p.m. | Esplanade
Part birthday party, part circus spectacular, Sophie's Surprise 29th combines daring acrobatics, outrageous comedy, and iconic 90s hits for a fun adults-only night out. RSVP to Sophie’s Surprise 29th here.
Want to see more upcoming events, programming and activities? View all options at City of Medicine Hat facilities:
Industrial Avenue SE sanitary sewer line repairs
Starting Tuesday, October 13, a section of Industrial Ave SE will close to traffic to accommodate sanitary sewer line repairs.
The repairs will be conducted on a small section of Industrial Avenue between Bridge Street SE and London Avenue SE.
Weather permitting, work will be completed and Industrial Avenue SE will reopen by end-of-day Friday, October 16.
Read our public advisory to learn more about the work and detour in place.
City employee wins national Emerging Economic Development Officer of the Year award
We're very proud to share that Tracy Tawiah, one of the City’s Economic Development Specialists, received the Emerging Economic Development Officer of the Year award at the Economic Developers Association of Canada Annual Conference last month.
This award recognizes a high-performing professional with less than four years of experience in the industry who has made a significant impact in a short time, demonstrating exceptional promise, adaptability, and a commitment to the professionalization of economic development.
Tracy’s influence in workforce development, with projects like the local Rural Renewal program and the Competency Match Employer Playbook, helps attract and retain skilled labour to support a strong local economy.
Congratulations Tracy!
Make your mark outside the ring
Did you know that combative sports like boxing and mixed martial arts are regulated in Medicine Hat? The Combative Sports Commission has full power and authority to supervise, regulate, govern and control all aspects of these events, on behalf of City Council. Commission members help ensure events are conducted safely and fairly while supporting a positive environment for athletes, officials, promoters, and spectators.
We’re currently recruiting new members to join the Combative Sports Commission. If you are passionate about the safety and integrity of amateur or professional combat sports, apply by October 30 at medicinehat.ca/cityagencies.
Alcohol in Parks – Post-pilot survey
The Alcohol in Parks pilot program concluded on September 30, 2026. It allowed users 18 years and older to responsibly consume alcohol while seated at designated picnic tables in Kin Coulee, Echo Dale Regional Park, and Strathcona Island Park. Signage was posted on site to indicate which tables were included in the pilot.
Park users can take a post-pilot survey until October 15, 2026 to let us know how this program affected you and your enjoyment of these spaces.
Learn more and take the survey on the Alcohol in Parks Pilot page on Shape Your City.
Good Neighbour Day: Nominate yours today!
On Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026, Medicine Hat celebrated its inaugural Good Neighbour Day as a chance to celebrate our incredible people and places and build strong relationships and welcoming spaces for our community. We invite community members share what you love about your neighbourhood or nominate a good neighbour for a chance to win a $100 local prize pack. Nominations close on October 16, 2026.
Recruiting now: apply for a City board, commission or working group position
There’s no better way to engage than by having a seat at the table – and we just happen to have some empty chairs available!
The City of Medicine Hat is currently recruiting residents to serve on a variety of city agencies. Whether your interests lie in community development, planning, heritage, accessibility, public safety, libraries, or other civic matters, there's an opportunity to contribute your voice and expertise.
Current openings include:
- Assessment Review Board
- Combative Sports Commission
- Community Vibrancy Advisory Board
- Heritage Resources Working Group
- Municipal Planning Commission
- Public Library Board
- Police Commission
- Subdivision & Development Appeal Board
Applications are accepted until October 30, 2026 at 4:30 p.m.
Are you ready to make a meaningful impact? Apply online at medicinehat.ca/cityagencies
Airport Master Plan
The Airport Master Plan is the next step in planning for the future of the airport. It builds on the Airport Strategic Plan, which was accepted by Council in June 2026. The Master Plan will provide a long-term roadmap for airport development, infrastructure improvements, and land use.
Right now, the project team is working with airport tenants and users to better understand their future plans and operational needs. Technical studies and analyses are also being completed to help develop recommendations and identify priorities for implementation.
Planning for public engagement is underway, with opportunities for the broader community to provide input expected in early 2027. Feedback from stakeholders and the public will help shape the final Master Plan before it is presented to City Council for consideration.
Learn more at medicinehat.ca/yxhplan
Our financial reserves
The City of Medicine Hat has reserves which allow us to plan for our current approved capital and operating expenses as well as those planned for the future. Just as a household sets money aside for a new furnace, a vacation, or an unexpected repair, the City sets funds aside to pay for big projects, meet future obligations, and protect residents from sudden cost spikes. Our budget is typically approved two years at a time, but our reserves hold space for the ‘plan’ to spend money in the future.
In other words, reserves aren’t actually cash/money in the bank. They are dollars that have already been assigned to specific purposes, such as approved capital projects, lifecycle replacements, or legally restricted uses. So, if we spend ‘reserve’ money today, we need additional revenue to make up the difference so it is there when we need it.
Learn more at medicinehat.ca/reserves.
To view all our career opportunities at the City of Medicine Hat, visit our Careers webpage and sign up for job alerts.
Senior Accounting Assistant
Temporary (up to 24 months) | Full-Time | On Site
As a Senior Accounting Assistant, you will play a critical role in supporting the Finance Department by ensuring fiscal accountability and control. This position provides timely and accurate financial information to Directors and Managers, maintains proper records and reporting, and supports financial system operations. The role includes assisting with financial document preparation, account reconciliations, grant administration, budget tracking, and ERP system support.
Hospitality Lead (Kitchen Lead Line Cook)
Temporary | Casual | On Site
Bring your culinary leadership and passion for exceptional guest experiences to a role where no two days are the same. As a Hospitality Lead, you'll be at the heart of dynamic, high-energy venue - guiding teams, elevating food and beverage service, and ensuring every guest interaction leaves a lasting impression. If you thrive in fast-paced environments, love leading from the front, and take pride in delivering quality and consistency, this is your opportunity to make a visible impact.
Corporate Records Coordinator
Permanent | Full Time | On Site
The Corporate Records Coordinator leads the City's Records and Information Management program, ensuring electronic and physical records are effectively managed throughout their lifecycle. This role develops and maintains policies, processes, and systems that support secure access, classification, retention, and disposal while ensuring compliance with legislation, industry standards, and organizational needs. As a trusted advisor, you'll provide guidance and expertise that strengthens records management practices across the organization.
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