Today on Bring Back the Porch, host Brian Konrad sits down with former MLA Drew Barnes for a wide-ranging and candid conversation about the challenges, and opportunities facing Medicine Hat.
From the loss of air service with WestJet to rising property taxes driven by the Government of Alberta under Premier Danielle Smith, Brian and Drew discuss the economic pressures hitting residents and small businesses.
Barnes shares his perspective on government spending, fiscal responsibility, and why he believes Medicine Hat must rethink its approach to growth, investment, and local governance. Despite the concerns, there’s a strong message of optimism: opportunity still exists for entrepreneurs, investors, and community leaders willing to step up.
What We Cover:
Why losing flights at Medicine Hat Regional Airport is a bigger deal than you think
The real impact of rising education property taxes on local residents
Concerns over Alberta’s growing provincial deficit
The debate around the city’s solar energy project
Why some investors are choosing the U.S. over Canada
The role of government vs. entrepreneurs in economic growth
How Medicine Hat can position itself as a hub for new business
The importance of civic engagement, voter turnout, and accountability
Key Takeaways:
Medicine Hat is facing real economic and political headwinds, but it’s also uniquely positioned for growth. With affordable living, strong infrastructure, and high quality of life, the city could attract new business and talent - if the right decisions are made.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Context of Medicine Hat's Challenges
02:56 The Impact of Airline Service Loss on Medicine Hat
05:43 Quality of Life and Business Opportunities in Medicine Hat
09:04 Fiscal Responsibility and Government Trust Issues
11:50 Engaging the Public: Referendums and Political Accountability
14:40 Economic Development: Data Centers and Energy Concerns
17:52 Reflections on Local Governance and Community Engagement
19:53 Positives and Opportunities in Medicine Hat
Notable Moments:
“You threw money at the problem… and didn’t solve it.”
“This is the best place to live—but we’re going the wrong direction.”
“Every piece of bad news creates opportunity.”
“We need smaller government and bigger people.”
About the Guest:
Drew Barnes is a former MLA for Cypress-Medicine Hat known for his outspoken views on fiscal responsibility, government accountability, and economic growth in Alberta.
About the Show:
Bring Back the Porch is a community-driven podcast focused on local conversations that matter featuring leaders, thinkers, and changemakers shaping Medicine Hat and beyond. You can support us by subscribing, liking and sharing our work.
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