Lethbridge awaits provincial EMS review to preserve integrated service

The future of Lethbridge’s integrated Fire and EMS system remains unresolved. After Alberta paused its EMS procurement process last June and opened negotiations with municipalities, many hoped a solution was within reach. Instead, the Province is maintaining its funding model, extending the deadline to meet the EHS benchmark rate to April 1, 2028, and launching an independent review.

Despite those changes, Mayor Blaine Hyggen says Lethbridge will continue rejecting the current funding model, arguing residents should not have to pay higher municipal taxes for what the City says is a provincial responsibility.

use says the city continues to be open to further negotiations.