The Voice: December 9th, 2025
Engaging on nuclear for Alberta’s energy future, Bill 8: The Utilities Statutes Amendment Act, 2025 Provincial Highway Construction, WCB 2026 Employer Premium Rates Have Been Announced, and more all in this week's edition of The Voice.
Business News
Engaging on nuclear for Alberta’s energy future
Albertans are invited to participate in upcoming information sessions to have their say on nuclear energy in the province. As part of Alberta’s public engagement on nuclear energy and its potential to meet the province’s future electricity needs, the Nuclear Energy Engagement and Advisory Panel will host a series of virtual and in-person public information sessions in December and January. These sessions will provide information around nuclear energy and gather input from people across the province, including the public, municipalities and industry.
Interested Albertans can register to attend the webinars by visiting alberta.ca/nuclear-energy-engagement#webinars
Bill 8, the Utilities Statutes Amendment Act, 2025
If passed, Bill 8, the Utilities Statutes Amendment Act, 2025 would see data centres that bring their own generation prioritized, accelerating the approval process and supporting their connection to the grid. This would support both the reliability of the power grid for Albertans and speed access to market for industry. Changes would also ensure that data centre projects – not Alberta ratepayers – would pay for necessary transmission upgrades for data centre grid connections.
If passed, Bill 8 would build on changes made in the spring through the Energy and Utilities Statutes Amendment Act, 2025 to support the implementation of the Restructured Energy Market. This includes the finalization of the market’s framework, based on extensive industry engagement by the Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO). Find out more.
2025 Provincial Highway Construction
Alberta has a vast provincial highway network including more than 64,000 lane kilometres of highways and almost 4,800 bridge structures. The capital plan invests nearly $8.5 billion in 376 municipal projects and 500 provincial projects for a total of 876 projects across the province.
The 2025 construction season delivered major progress in southern Alberta, including the ongoing twinning of Highway 3 between Taber and Burdett, where 46 kilometres of new eastbound lanes, intersection upgrades, range road improvements and the Grassy Lake bypass are all moving forward. Major construction on this project will take up to three years to complete, including building the new eastbound lanes of Highway 3 from Taber to Burdett, the Grassy Lake bypass and installing bridge culverts. Read the full summary
WCB 2026 Employer Premium Rates have been announced
The average employer premium rate is $1.46 per $100 of assessable earnings. However, your individual rate will vary based on your performance and the performance of your rate group. You can look up your rate group's 2026 premium rate. Your individual rate can be viewed on your experience rating statement.
The premium rates highlight sheet provides an overview of the factors influencing rates and includes a checklist of steps you can take to improve your own performance. Find out more
Medicine Hat-Cypress News
Utility Rates Public Notice
On November 17, 2025, City Council gave first reading to Bylaw 4864 to amend Bylaw 2244, the Electric Utility Bylaw, as well as Bylaw 4865 to amend Bylaw 2489, the Gas Utility Bylaw, by repealing and replacing Schedules “A” and “B” to amend certain rates, fees and charges in both bylaws.
These bylaws would come into force on January 1, 2026. A public hearing in general accordance with the Municipal Government Act and the City’s Procedure Bylaw, and consideration of second/third readings of the proposed Bylaws will be held on Monday, December 15, at approximately 6:30 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers (580 First Street SE). Any person who claims to be affected by the proposed bylaw may make an oral presentation limited to five minutes to City Council at the public hearing. Written/electronic submissions – all written submissions received prior to the public hearing will be provided to City Council.
Submissions received by 4:30 p.m. Monday, December 8, will be published in the Regular City Council Meeting agenda. All written/electronic submissions become public documents and must be submitted to the City Clerk Department at 580 First Street SE, Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 8E6 or via e-mail: clerk@medicinehat.ca A copy of the Bylaws may be accessed via the ‘Proposed Bylaws’ section on the City’s website at www.medicinehat.ca. First notice dated at the City of Medicine Hat, in the Province of Alberta, the 29th day of November 2025. https://www.medicinehat.ca/news/posts/public-notices-november-29-2025/
Municipal Matters: Medicine Hat Economic Development marks a year of growth, strategy and momentum
Selena McLean-Moore, Director of Medicine Hat Economic Development, shared highlights of the department’s progress and priorities through 2025 in this week’s edition of Municipal Matters.
From launching the Southeast Alberta Economic Opportunity Strategy, which was developed in partnership with municipalities across the region, to reinforcing our position as a national hub for aerospace innovation, MHED remains committed to positioning Medicine Hat among the top economic performers in Alberta and ensuring sustained, long-term prosperity for the region.
City Land Opportunities in 2026
The City of Medicine Hat was able to sell out of all their single-family and duplex lots, purchased by both builders and individual buyers, boosting the local economy and facilitating a diversity of new housing opportunities. The year started off with strong interest in single-family and duplex lots, which continued throughout the year, demonstrating high levels of confidence from both local homeowners and the development community.
In early 2026, the City Land and Real Estate Department will be introducing 10 new lots - collectively known as "The Spur" - as an addition to the Ranchlands. While details are still limited, it will be an opportunity for our local builders and developers as they release more information ahead of the 2026 construction season.
Brooks-Newell News
State of the Region Address
The annual State of the Region Address put on by the Brooks-Newell Region takes place on Thursday, January 22nd, 2026, at the Heritage Inn & Convention Centre in Brooks. This event brings together community leaders and residents to reflect on the past year and look ahead to the future of our region. Local elected officials will provide a recap of 2025 and share their vision for 2026. Featured speakers include:
- Premier Danielle Smith, Medicine Hat–Brooks MLA
- Mayor Norm Gerestein, City of Brooks
- Reeve Arno Doerksen, County of Newell
Doors Open & Breakfast: 7:30 AM | Speakers Begin: 8:00 AM
Don’t miss this opportunity to hear firsthand about the plans shaping our region’s future! Get your Ticket Now
TRANSPORTATION STUDY
The City of Brooks and County of Newell plan to apply for an Alberta Community Partnership (ACP) grant to fund a new Regional Transportation Study. The last traffic study was completed in 2009, and the 2018 Transportation Infrastructure Master Plan referenced that study but focused primarily on structural conditions.
The project will include coordination of traffic signal timing plans at 11 signalized intersections and an update to the City’s Transportation Master Plan. It will assess anticipated 10-year traffic growth at key intersections, review pedestrian crossing treatments, and update recommendations from previous studies. The estimated total project cost is $200,000, which includes data collection, growth projections, intersection analysis, and updates to 10-year capital plans. If approved, the ACP grant will fund the entire project.
Lease Agreement for the New Mosaic Theatre Society
Council approved entering into a Lease Agreement with the Mosaic Theatre Society for the operation of the Oasis Theatre, located at 129 2nd Street West. The City purchased the theatre from Landmark Cinemas and completed due diligence inspections to confirm the building’s structural integrity and functionality of all systems. The Mosaic Theatre Society will operate at arm’s length from the City, leasing the property for $1 per year and assuming responsibility for utilities, insurance, and operating costs.
The Society will recruit board members, solicit donations, apply for grants, implement programs, and hire staff as needed. Brooks Newell Region Economic Development has provided $15,000 in seed funding through the NewGrow Program to support start-up costs. Council approved the agreement with amendments requiring the Society to provide financial statements to the City and allowing for subletting under certain conditions.
McMornings in the New Year!
Starting in the new year, keep an eye out for McMornings every other week. A collaboration between the Chamber of Commerce and the Brooks' McDonalds' to bring a local business some morning coffee and breaky treats. It's our way of celebrating the incredible businesses that make businesses thrive!
Every other week we will post about the initiative, and YOU can vote on who we should surprise with a morning treat. Vote for your favourite local spot or even your own business.
Advocacy in Action
Emergency Exercise
On Tuesday, December 2, the Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce participated in a mock emergency exercise to prepare for real life emergency situations. The functional exercise simulated the arrival of evacuees from a northern First Nations community displaced by wildfire and focused on testing reception processes, service coordination, and culturally appropriate supports.
The drill involved participation from City staff, Medicine Hat College staff and students, the Miywasin Friendship Centre, Red Cross, the Root Cellar, the Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce, Alberta Health Services (AHS), and the Alberta Emergency Management Agency (AEMA).
The Chamber of Commerce participates in the City of Medicine Hat Emergency Management Agency to ensure their is communication and continuity with the business community.
During previous emergencies, the Chamber has often played a role in supporting businesses and providing continuity in communication and business supports. Whether through floods or the pandemic, the Chamber has been there to support our business community through those situations. In this mock exercise, the Chamber facilitated connections with the business community and offered our help to gather supports from the business community that could be offered to evacuees, as well as provide resources, contacts, and connections for procurement and supplies that may be required.
Learn more about the mock exercise and the City’s emergency management plans.
Statement on the MOU Between the Governments of Canada and Alberta
“The MOU between the governments of Canada and Alberta is a welcome pivot toward economic cooperation, greater regulatory certainty and reduced tension. Alberta is one of Canada’s most significant economies and a cooperative, constructive era is far better than one of continued division and discord. This MOU and Budget 2025’s measures represent meaningful steps to respond to long-standing industry concerns.
Achieving Canada’s potential as an energy superpower and dealing with increasing geopolitical shifts requires unprecedented levels of federal–provincial collaboration. The federal government and the province of Alberta must be pulling in the same direction, alongside all provinces in the federation. The Canadian Chamber has long called for working together so can we build a responsible and thriving energy sector, invite investment, create jobs, and strengthen Canada’s competitiveness.” Candace Laing, President and CEO, Canadian Chamber of Commerce
CUSMA Review: Canadian Chamber Submits Recommendations
The Canadian Chamber has submitted recommendations to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative as part of the consultation on the upcoming CUSMA review. A version of this submission has already been provided to the Government of Canada, with another to the Government of Mexico. View the Submission
Key Recommendations are based on cross-sector engagement with businesses throughout 2024–25, with policy recommendations focused on three priorities:
1. Prioritize the continuity of the Agreement and its existing key provisions.
2. Implement targeted measures to strengthen the Agreement and enhance North American economic security.
3. Strengthen North American economic integration by reducing or eliminating recently imposed tariffs within North America.
CUSMA Ongoing and Upcoming Advocacy
Parliamentary Committees: On November 6, Catherine Fortin LeFaivre, SVP, International Policy & Global Partnerships and Gaphel Kongtsa, Director, International Policy appeared before both the House of Commons International Trade Committee and the Senate Foreign Affairs and Trade Committee on our CUSMA priorities. We continue to actively engage with MPs, Senators, and ministerial offices to advance these discussions
Engagement with the United States: The Canadian Chamber led a trade mission to Washington, D.C., focused on advancing discussions related to the CUSMA review and Section 232 tariffs. The mission included meetings with policy experts, U.S. officials, and members of Congress, as well as a jointly hosted public forum on the CUSMA review with the Brookings Institution. Continued engagement with U.S. stakeholders—including business associations, government representatives, legislators, and think tanks is planned through 2026.
Strengthening Work with Mexico: We will be expanding our Mexico-focused activities in the months ahead, leveraging our ongoing CUSMA initiatives and established partnerships with key counterparts in Mexico, including the Consejo Coordinador Empresarial. In collaboration with Global Affairs Canada, we are contributing to the planning of the Team Canada Trade Mission to Mexico in February 2026.
Next Level Events
WEBINAR: Global Economic Outlook: Export strategy insights Dec 9, 2025
Get the insights you need to plan your export strategy with confidence—backed by the latest economic trends. Rising inflation, shifting trade policies and global market volatility are reshaping trade and Canadian exporters are feeling the pressure. EDC’s latest Global Economic Outlook offers tailored economic risk analysis for Canadian businesses, breaking down the trends and opportunities that could shape your strategy in 2026. Led by a panel of EDC economic experts, this webinar will provide actionable insights and a live Q&A to help you make confident business decisions.
To register, visit: https://www.edc.ca/en/events/webinar/export-strategy-2026-outlook.html
Hiring with Confidence: How Competency-Based Assessment Helps You Find the Right Fit
Are you a Medicine Hat employer struggling to fill vacancies or unsure how to assess international experience? Join us for an interactive virtual session to learn how credential recognition and Competency-Based Assessment can help you identify and hire skilled newcomers with confidence.
Date: December 10, 2025 | Time: 12:00-1:30PM (90 minutes)
In this virtual interactive session you will:
- Learn how credential recognition supports informed hiring
- Explore simple competency-based tools used by employers across Canada
- Practice assessing skills through short hiring scenarios
- Build confidence in hiring internationally trained talent
Registration (free): https://bit.ly/Medicinehatwebinar
Supporting Innovation: Government Programs to Help Your Business Grow
Join this webinar to learn about the different ways government can support your business growth.
In this free webinar, you will learn how to get a tailored list of government supports, personalized to meet your business’ needs, including funding, tax credits, collaboration opportunities and more, with the Business Benefits Finder. You will learn about the value of intellectual property (IP), how to get help protecting your patents and how to find collaboration and licensing opportunities and you will get tips from an Innovation Advisor on how your innovation strategy is key to your business development. Register for this webinar taking place December 11 at 11:30.
SR&ED: Unlocking Funding for Innovation (Virtual webinar) | Dec 16, 2025
Whether you’re new to the SR&ED program or have been claiming it for years, this webinar is a must-attend. With economic uncertainty and global trade tensions affecting businesses across Canada, now is the time to explore every opportunity for support. The Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED) program is one of the most generous funding initiatives offered by the Canadian government—especially for companies in life sciences, pharmaceuticals, and technology. Significant new changes have been announced to the program which will make SR&ED credits even more generous going forward!
Learn more and register here: https://bioalberta.com/events/webinar-sred-with-doane-grant-thornton-llp/
Enriching Your Business
There's a reason Chambers Plan is Canada's #1 plan.
JoAnne Letkeman, Exclusive Chamber Group Advisor
Medicine Hat & District | (403) 504-2166 ext 1.
Scott Walls, Exclusive Chamber Group Advisor
Brooks-Newell Region | (403) 892-9675
Fuelling the Business Community
New Chamber Members
We would like to welcome RP Ranching Co Ltd, Seven Edge Success, and Brooks Golf Club to the Chamber Family!
We continually look forward to helping our members during their business journey and wish each the best in all future endeavors. We are extremely happy to have such amazing members, and are very glad that we can serve a part in that journey! Keep your eye out for more new member posts moving forward!
Insurance tips for a worry-free winter
In partnership with the Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce, BrokerLink is proud to offer members and their employees exclusive discounts on home and auto insurance.
Winter in Canada is beautiful - but it brings unique challenges. The best way to enjoy the season is to prepare for it. Here are a few tips:
- Protect your home: Fluctuating temperatures can cause ice dams, leading to leaks and gutter damage. Clear snow and ice from your roof and gutters, ensure proper insulation and ventilation, and inspect your roof before storms hit.
- Drive safely: Snow and ice make roads hazardous. Install winter tires, clear snow from your vehicle, use de-icing washer fluid, and keep your gas tank at least half full.
- Fireplace safety: Never leave a fire unattended, extinguish it before bed or leaving home, keep a fire extinguisher handy, and test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors annually. Learn more tips on fireplace safety here.
- Snowmobile coverage: If you’re hitting the trails, make sure your snowmobile is insured. It’s required on public property and protects you from liability and costly repairs - even on private land. More tips on snowmobiles.
Winter doesn’t have to be stressful, just be prepared. For more advice or to review your coverage, contact your dedicated local group insurance advisor today. Rest Assured, BrokerLink Has You Covered*
Call 1.833.998.3798, or visit BrokerLink.ca/MHCC
*Subject to policy conditions and exclusions. ©2025 Brokerlink Inc. ™BrokerLink & Design is a trademark of Brokerlink Inc. All rights reserved.
Computerized Bookkeeping at Medicine Hat College
Computerized Bookkeeping Certificate | Starts February 24, 2026 (In-person)
Computerized Bookkeeping program offers flexible options: complete the full certificate part-time in the evening within 4 months or register for individual courses to focus on the skills that matter most to you — whether that’s small-business finances, personal budgeting, or a career shift. Learn tools & skills like:
• Sage 50 and QuickBooks
• Payroll, invoicing, and record keeping
• Microsoft Excel and accounting software
Fill Up On Funding
Ethnocultural Grant & Anti-Racism Grant
Ethnocultural Grant | Closes Dec. 19
Alberta’s Ethnocultural Grant will focus on multiculturalism activities and initiatives and will support community organizations to implement cross cultural initiatives that build diverse, inclusive, and welcoming multicultural communities and advance intercultural understanding between diverse ethnocultural groups to help ensure that people from diverse ethnocultural backgrounds want to live and work in Alberta. The grant will also support Indigenous communities to celebrate and build on their rich historical heritage.
Anti-Racism Grant | Closes Dec. 19
Alberta’s Anti-Racism Grant Program is intended to support community organizations in Alberta to implement initiatives that combat discrimination and address systemic racism by providing funding for projects that increase public education and enable Albertans to recognize and value cultural differences and heritage.
Investment and Growth Fund (IGF)
The Investment and Growth Fund (IGF) is an invite only deal-closing incentive designed to be offered in select late-stage investment decisions when there are demonstrable barriers to making a final investment decision in Alberta. It focuses on securing high-impact private sector investments that create new, well-paying jobs, spur economic growth and enhance Alberta’s productivity. The IGF program targets new investments and expansion projects located across the province.
Learn more here: https://www.alberta.ca/investment-and-growth-fund
Major Sport Events Grant Program
The Major Sport Events grant program (MSE) builds on Alberta’s reputation as an attractive destination with proven capacity for hosting a wide range of national and international sport events. It recognizes the network of strong sport organizations who demonstrate the ability to collaborate and deliver high quality events.
The program provides support funding to eligible non-profit organizations to host world class national and international sport events in Alberta. The program focuses on hosting single sport events such as world championships, world cups and national championships. Application Deadline is December 19, 2025
Affordable Housing Partnership Program
The Affordable Housing Partnership Program will support the creation of thousands of affordable homes in communities across the province. All proposals will be assessed based on local community needs, the ability to achieve outcomes for Albertans with low income and value for taxpayer money. The Affordable Housing Partnership Program provides funding for:
- Mixed-income developments with an affordable and/or social housing component.
- Mixed-use developments with an affordable and/or social housing component.
- Specialized housing.
Funding for the Affordable Housing Partnership Program is eligible for cost-matching through the Canada-Alberta Bilateral Agreement under the National Housing Strategy. Proponents interested in the next round of Affordable Housing Partnership Program funding have until January 31, 2026, to apply. Find out more | Affordable Housing Partnership Program Guidelines | Affordable Housing Partnership Program – Approved projects list
Crossword Puzzle
Crossword Puzzle Answers
Did you figure it out? Here are the answers for the December 2nd crossword puzzle.
Remember that subscribing to our weekly email gets you access to the crossword puzzle. Anyone who sends us their answers will get their name put into our quarterly draw.
The prize? Receive 5 promotional credits with us (for members) or credit towards a membership (for non-members)! Oh and bragging rights that you're a crossword master.
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The Voice: December 9th, 2025
Engaging on nuclear for Alberta’s energy future, Bill 8: The Utilities Statutes Amendment Act, 2025 Provincial Highway Construction, WCB 2026 Employer Premium Rates Have Been Announced, and more all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Engaging on nuclear for Alberta’s energy future Albertans are invited to participate in upcoming information sessions to…
Read More The Voice: December 2nd, 2025
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Read More The Voice: November 25th, 2025
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