The Voice: February 11th, 2025
February is Black History Month, Canada's AG Day, Alberta's Government will release budget 2025 on February 27th, Alberta Advanced Disposal Surcharge (ADS) Explanation and Expansion, and Extension of 2024 Charitable Donations to February 28th all in this week's edition of The Voice.
Business News
February is Black History Month
Each February, people across Canada participate in Black History Month events and celebrations that honour the legacy and contributions of Black people in Canada.
The 2025 theme for Black History Month is: “Black Legacy and Leadership: Celebrating Canadian History and Uplifting Future Generations.” This theme acknowledges the diversity of Black Canadians, the importance of Black leadership and the legacy being built for future generations. We invite all Canadians to learn more about Black Canadian communities, and how they continue to help shape Canada.
Medicine Hat:
^ Esplanade art exhibition, The Feminine Lived Experience up February 4th to June 21st.
^ 2025 Black History Month Summit
Brooks:
^ Events and Information: https://brooks.ca/DocumentCenter/View/7702/BHM-Booklet-with-Links?bidId=
^ Black History Month Movie Showing: Black History Month Movie Showing Tickets, Sat, 15 Feb 2025 at 3:00 PM | Eventbrite
Webinar:
Seeing & Being Seen: Black Professionals on Identity, Inclusion & Success February 20, 2025
Join us for an engaging and insightful panel discussion where we will explore the experiences, challenges, and triumphs of Black professionals in our community. Our amazing panelists, coming from diverse professional backgrounds, will share their personal stories and reflections on various important topic. RSVP
Resources for Black Entrepreneurs:
Canada's AG Day
Raise your forks and make some noise! Canada's Ag Day is on Tuesday, February 11th 2025! Join our vibrant community, engage in food and agriculture conversations, and help spread the word across Canada with the hashtag #CdnAgDay.
Let's celebrate the hardworking people who bring us the food we love and the essential contributions of agriculture to our nation's prosperity and well-being!
Alberta’s government will release Budget 2025 on February 27
Last year, President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance Nate Horner released Budget 2024: A responsible plan for a growing province, which focused on strengthening health care and education, building safe communities and managing resources wisely. Over 2023 and 2024, Alberta’s population grew at an unprecedented rate, and it has put intense strain on many of the province’s public services. Budget 2025 will meet the challenge of this strain while helping plan for the future.
“Alberta is facing headwinds from every direction right now: cross-border trade issues, volatile oil prices and pressure on our public services as more people move here to make Alberta their home. I am working with my colleagues to build a budget that builds Alberta and meets the challenge head on.” - Nate Horner, President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance. Read more.
Alberta Advanced Disposal Surcharge (ADS) Explanation and Expansion
Launched in 2004, ARMA’s Electronics Recycling Program was the first in Canada to recycle computer equipment, televisions, and select office equipment. The program has continuously evolved, expanding the list of eligible electronics to include a broader range of devices. This expansion has been driven by the need to manage the growing volume of electronic waste and to promote environmental sustainability.
Starting April 1, 2025, the ePilot material will permanently become part of the electronics recycling program, adding over 500 additional types of electronics to the list of eligible materials. This includes power tools, microwaves, and even musical instruments. Here are just a few of the many changes and fees that will be implemented April 1st, 2025:
- Computers and Servers: This category includes CPUs, servers, desktop computers, and related peripherals. The environmental fee for these products varies, with a fee of $2.00 up to March 31, 2025, and $0.45 from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026
- Laptops, Tablets, and Notebooks: Portable computers such as laptops and tablets fall under this category. The fee for these products is $0.80 up to March 31, 2025, and $0.30 from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026
- Visual Display and All-in-One Devices: This includes devices with built-in components necessary to operate as a monitor, such as all-in-one computers and televisions. The fees range from $2.50 to $6.00 up to March 31, 2025, and $1.30 to $2.75 from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026, depending on the screen size
- Printers, Copiers, Scanners, and Fax Machines: This category covers a wide range of printing and scanning devices. The fee is $3.00 up to March 31, 2025, and $1.65 from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026
- Home Small Appliances: This includes various household appliances such as air conditioners, fans, heaters, and vacuum cleaners. The fee for these products is $0.40 from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026
- Personal Care Devices: Personal care appliances like hair dryers, razors, and massagers are also included. The fees for these products are outlined in the document
Recycling electronic products is vital for reducing environmental pollution and conserving natural resources. By understanding the definitions and fees associated with electronic products, consumers can make informed decisions and contribute to a sustainable future. The Alberta Recycling Management Authority provides detailed guidelines and support for recycling electronic products, ensuring that they are disposed of responsibly. For more information or assistance in verifying if a particular electronic product should be charged an environmental fee, please contact the Alberta Recycling Management Authority at 1-888-999-8762 or by email at electronics@albertarecycling.ca
The Importance of Recycling Electronic Waste: Recycling electronic waste is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it prevents hazardous materials such as lead, mercury, cadmium, beryllium, and antimony from ending up in landfills, where they can pose serious environmental and health risks. Secondly, recycling allows valuable components from electronics, such as metals, glass, and plastics, to be reused in the production of new consumer products. This not only conserves natural resources but also reduces the environmental footprint of manufacturing processes.
Looking Ahead: Renewable Energy Recycling Initiatives: Alberta is also leading the way in recycling renewable energy materials. The province will be the first in Canada to develop programs for recycling solar panels, electric vehicle batteries, and wind turbine electrical components. As renewable energy continues to grow, these programs will be essential for managing waste and promoting environmental responsibility.
Alberta Recycling Management Authority: ELECTRONICS PRODUCTS, DEFINITIONS, & FEES PDF Here
If this is something that impacts your business, let us know! Email communications@southeastalbertachamber.ca with your experience and thoughts on the new ADS expansion.
Extension of 2024 charitable donations to February 28, 2025
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has confirmed it will proceed with the 2024 extended deadline for charitable donations eligible for tax credits to February 28, 2025. This move is in response to the four-week Canada Post mail stoppage, which may have delayed donations. By extending the deadline, donors will have extra time to ensure their contributions are processed. Learn more. Looking for a charity in Southeast Alberta to contribute to: Check out our member community organization listing here.
Medicine Hat-Cypress News
2025 Property Assessment Timelines
Each year, City Council approves the total amount of money required to support City services. Other sources of revenue including license fees, user fees and provincial grants, are subtracted from this amount. The remaining balance is the amount the City must collect through property taxes. The total tax budget is then distributed amongst all property owners throughout the city. Your property assessment is used to determine your share of the total taxes collected.
The City of Medicine Hat Assessment Department is finalizing the 2025 Assessment Roll and preparing for the mailing of the notices. The anticipated timeline to presentation to Open Corporate Services Committee with the 2025 Property Assessment Results would be February 13, 2025. You can view more information on assessment and property taxes and important dates online here: https://www.medicinehat.ca/en/home-property-and-utilities/assessment-and-property-taxes.aspx
Income & Expense Assessment Request for Information (ARFIs) for non -residential property owners is expected to be mailed May 9, 2025 and the return of the ARFI forms is due within 60 days of mailing. There will be examples of ARFI forms and assistance with these forms in starting May. The information gathered through the ARFI form helps produce an accurate, fair, and equitable assessment roll each year. Completion of the forms is also mandated by the Municipal Government Act (MGA) and its associated regulations. Failure to complete the forms may result in the loss of the ability to appeal an assessment.
City of Medicine Hat Council Highlights
On February 3, 2025, Managing Director of Public Services, Joseph Hutter, presented proposed terms of reference for a Resilient and Inclusive Community Task Force Team. The increasing incidents of public disturbances, anti-social behaviour, sleeping in public, indecent acts, and visible illegal drug use have raised concerns among local community members. Addressing these issues requires a coordinated and comprehensive approach. The team’s purpose is to develop and implement strategies and actions to bolster community capacity, enhance community safety and promote social cohesion. Following the presentation, City Council approved the terms of reference. The Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce has been named as one of the task force team members in response to our requests for a coordinated approach and inclusion of the business community as representatives in the discussions.
City Council gave first reading to Bylaw 4847, the Borrowing Bylaw. They also moved to postpone any decision related to the Medicine Hat Exhibition and Stampede (MHES) request for capital funding until the Province has made a decision on future funding for MHES following the Province’s sustainability assessment on provincial agricultural societies. The City will also evaluate the Council Committees (external and internal). Council directed administration to review the business licensing fees in Bylaw 2339, specifically highlighting any changes that resulted in increases greater than inflation, by end of Q1 2025. For all the highlights and motions click here.
Saamis Solar Park decision
The AUC has approved the City’s application to obtain ownership of the Saamis Solar Park project within Medicine Hat’s municipal boundary. The City will proceed with closing the purchase and sale agreement. Before pursuing any construction, the City will need to apply to the AUC for an amendment to the existing project approval to reflect the intended smaller size and related phasing.
It is important to note that this does not mean that the City is immediately building a solar farm. It provides opportunity, but not the obligation, to build. Any decision on investing in new generation assets is subject to Council approval. Resulting recommendations will be shared with City Council for their consideration before confirming next steps. Read the full statement and view the Saamis Solar Park page on Shape Your City for full details. https://shapeyourcity.medicinehat.ca/saamis-solar
Brooks-Newell News
Bassano Business Roundtable
Executive Director, Lisa Dressler and Naomi Zacharias, Business Development Coordinator, along with the Town of Bassano hosted a business roundtable on February 7 with over 20 businesses in attendance. We discussed various opportunities for business in the community and were pleased to learn about the many businesses located in Bassano with their online Directory here: https://bassano.ca/business-directory/. The discussions focused on opportunities for collaboration, promotions, financing/funding, and workforce. We were also pleased to learn about a number of incentives available for business: https://bassano.ca/development-incentives-resources/ with next steps including workforce roundtables in Brooks on February 13th and a follow up roundtable breakfast in Bassano for March.
Legislative Compliance Check
The City of Brooks is requesting a Legislative Compliance Check (LCC) from Alberta Municipal Affairs to review its bylaws, council meetings, and policies. This check ensures the City is following provincial laws and identifies areas for improvement. A municipal advisor will examine documents, meet with city officials, and provide a public report with findings and recommendations.
See the February 3 Request for Decision
Portable Sign Update
City Council is reviewing rules for portable signs, including allowing election candidate advertising on private property. The bylaw limits two portable signs per parcel and restricts election signs to 60 days before an election. Other changes include raising the annual permit fee from $80 to $160, and removing permit fees for non-profits.
Join us at our Summer Student Job Fair! 
Need extra summer staff? Join us at our Summer Student Job Fair on February 20, from 1PM to 4PM at the JBS Canada Center - Mezzanine area and connect with motivated students eager to contribute to your team!
This is your opportunity to showcase your business and find the right talent for the season ahead. Click the email button below if you’d like a table at the event: cdelacruz@brooks.ca
Advocacy in Action
Regional economic development strategy ready for action
Medicine Hat Economic Development and its regional partners are ready to put the Southeast Alberta Economic Opportunity Strategy (SAEOS), Implementation Framework, and Action Plan into action. The plan is the culmination of a 2023 directive for Medicine Hat Economic Development to complete a regional economic development strategy with a plan presented to City Council on January 20, 2025. This strategy’s action plan aligns with five key economic priorities for the region. Read the release and check out the strategy and action plan. The local Chamber was pleased to see the final plan presented as they have long advocated for the Development of an Economic Development Strategy, dating back to 2012 with the plan addressing many of the recommendations from the Chamber. There is still work to be done on a municipal level, but this framework will provide the roadmap to move forward.
Tariffs Delayed, but the Fight for Free Trade Continues
President Trump announced the pause on plans for a 25% tariff on Canadian imports, with the exception of energy, which would be subject to a 10% tariff. According to President Trump, this change is due to the Government of Canada's recently announced border security measures, as well as new commitments, such as the appointment of a "Fentanyl Czar" and the creation of a Canada-U.S. Joint Strike Force on border security issues. The tariffs are now delayed for an additional 30 days, conditional on a new economic deal with Canada.
This 30-day delay means more time for Canadian businesses and governments to drive home the point that tariffs between the two closest allies the world has ever known make no sense. The Canadian Chamber, our Canadian Chamber Network, and businesses across the country will spend every day of it fighting hard to secure this historic, robust trading relationship. Visit the Trade Tracker
We’ve also been gathering Trade and Tariffs Resources for our business community as listed below:
- AEEP: Alberta Export Expansion Program | Alberta.ca
- Alberta Innovates ITPP: International Technology Partnership Program
- BDC: Resources for businesses affected by U.S. tariffs
- Canadian Chamber: Canada-US Trade Tracker
- Canadian Manufacturers and Exports: Information Hub & Trade and Tariffs
- EMC Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium: Member Needs Help Q & A
- Export Development Canada: United States Market Intelligence and solutions to navigate uncertainty
- MNP Trade Impact Navigator; Tariff Exposure Risk Assessment Tool
- Startup Canada: Tariff Toolkit
- Trade Commissioner: Trade Commissioner Service – Home
Part of our advocacy includes reducing barriers to Canada's internal trade
The Committee on Internal Trade (CIT) recently discussed key actions to remove regulatory barriers and enhance trade within Canada. Focus areas included the mutual recognition of goods and services, allowing products and services approved in one jurisdiction to be sold across others, and improving labour mobility to make it easier for workers to move between provinces and territories. Learn more
We’ll continue to Fight for Free Trade
Across Canada, businesses are feeling the squeeze. Tariffs don’t just disrupt trade — they drive up costs, stall innovation, and put jobs and long-term economic growth at risk. From manufacturing to agriculture, no sector is immune. Now more than ever, Canada needs bold leadership to defend its businesses and workers. The government must be an unapologetic champion for free and fair trade.
The Canadian Chamber is calling for Canada’s leaders to do the unexpected: come together to collaborate and quickly deliver on a new, multipartisan all-in plan. We need unity and leaders to reconvene Parliament so that all parties can address critical roadblocks that have left Canada too dependent on trade with the United States. Priorities for a multipartisan plan need to include:
- Deliver on the promise of internal trade so that it’s easier to trade within Canada so that we can build Canada’s economy and resilience from within
- Build so that modern trade infrastructure is ready to get goods overseas.
- Reduce red tape so that we can build and build up businesses, without piled up paperwork holding us back.
- Reduce taxation so that businesses can focus on competing globally while also diversifying trade relationships.
In addition, our Chamber will continue to advocate provincially and federally and also advocate for the CanExport program to open before April as currently stated: https://www.tradecommissioner.gc.ca/funding-financement/canexport/sme-pme/index.aspx?lang=eng in addition to working with organizations to provide resources, funding and tools for business.
A plan that is incremental or siloed won’t rise to this challenge. We need governments, parties and businesses at all levels to boldly tackle it together. The Chamber Network across Canada stands ready across the country to do our part.
Tell Us Your Story
Help us illustrate how tariffs are affecting businesses like yours. Your story can shape the conversation, ensuring our leaders prioritize solutions that protect jobs, businesses, and our global competitiveness. Share Your Story Here
Together, we can ensure Canadian businesses stay competitive and strong. Let’s go all in. Read More
Next Level Events
Business Roundtables - Brooks-Newell
The Chamber of Commerce invites you to our Workforce Roundtable, an collaborative discussion aimed at bridging the gap between employment service providers and employers. This event will focus on identifying barriers for both job seekers and employers, understanding the challenges each group faces, while working collaboratively to find solutions and bridge the workforce gap, fill vacancies and raise awareness about the services and supports available for employers.
WHERE: MHC Brooks Campus | 200 Horticulture Station Rd. E Brooks, AB
WHEN: February 13th @ 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM | 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
2025 Home & Leisure Tradeshow
The Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce we would like to welcome you to this years Home & Leisure Tradeshow. With a diverse array of businesses and something for everyone, we are thrilled to showcase the best products, services, and technologies the region has to offer.
We are pleased to offer an online ticket discount thanks to our friends at Mint Smartwash. Purchase your tickets in advance, skip the line, and save $1 per ticket!
March 7th - 9th | Grab your discounted online tickets here!!
Business Brainstorming & Beers
Join the Chamber at locations around Medicine Hat to discuss whatever needs discussing at your business. Whether it's business growth, workforce challenges, new business opportunities, regulatory hurdles, or anything else, we are all about finding solutions. Come have a drink with us and solve the world's problems!
This round, we'll see you at Local Public Eatery!
Let us know you're coming: https://chamber.southeastalbertachamber.ca/chamber-calendar/Details/business-brainstorming-beers-1062552?sourceTypeId=Website
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 Eastern Irrigation District (EID), Heart of the Horse (HOTH), Gendron Equine Wellness 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!
STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP & GROWTH FOR TERRALTA
Laura Shivak, the majority owner of Terralta since 2006, has taken the opportunity to acquire previous partner interests in the company and bring on new strategic partners to help guide the next phase of growth. Part of this growth includes Laura continuing to guide Terralta through its evolution, expanding services beyond solar and geothermal to include electrical, plumbing, HVAC, refrigeration, and food and beverage equipment. As one of Southern Alberta’s leading renewable energy solution providers, Terralta remains committed to delivering the highest quality services to its community and surrounding areas.
“I’m proud and excited to be moving the company forward with renewed energy and building on our commitment to sustainable practices and strong ties with the Medicine Hat community and southern Alberta,” said Laura Shivak. “Our values and dedication to quality and service will remain the cornerstones of everything we do. I think everyone will be pleased with where we go from here.”
With a robust team and strengthened leadership, Terralta is poised to explore new partnerships and growth opportunities in the renewable and energy-efficiency industries for residential, commercial, agricultural, and industrial markets. Under Laura’s guidance, the company reaffirms its promise to deliver reliable, community-centered services, setting a foundation for continued success and innovation.
About Terralta: Terralta started in the early 2000s in Medicine Hat, Alberta as a family business, and is now one of the leading companies in renewable energy in southern Alberta. However, Terralta has expanded to provide more than solar; they also provide services for electrical, plumbing, HVAC, refrigeration, and food and beverage equipment. To learn more about Terralta, visit their website at https://terralta.ca/.
Elavon Offer: No Monthly Equipment Fees for a Year!
Get your equipment fees credited for 1 year* when you establish a new merchant account between January 1 and February 28, 2025.
Our full suite of point-of-sale solutions provide the tools you need to run your business. From inventory management and staff timekeeping to invoicing and business analytics, and so much more. We offer innovative and reliable payment technology that allows you and your customers to feel at ease knowing that your payments are being processed securely.
Disclaimer: * To qualify for the promotion, you must sign up for a new payment processing account with Elavon Canada between January 1 and February 28, 2025. Merchant accounts must be activated and actively processing
payment transactions March 15, 2025 for a minimum of one week and be in an open status at the time of the incentive credit. This promotion is limited to two (2) point-of-sale devices per member. talech Register package rentals are
excluded from the promotion. The twelve-month equipment credit will be applied to the Elavon monthly statement within 90 days of the first deposit date. The value of the twelve-month statement credit will offset the Solution Service fees billed for one year. Limit one credit per customer. Cannot be combined with another offer. Elavon reserves the right in its sole discretion to modify, suspend or terminate the promotion at any time without additional notice. Restrictions may apply. Services provided by Elavon Canada Company. Copyright © 2025 Elavon Canada Company. All rights reserved. Elavon is a trademark in the United States and/or other countries. All rights reserved. All features and specifications are subject to change without notice. This document is prepared by Elavon as a service for its customers. The information discussed is general in nature and may not apply to your specific situation.
Fill Up On Funding
TREX: Calling all artists
The Alberta Foundation for the Arts’ Travelling Exhibition program in southeast Alberta (TREX Southeast) has put out an open call for exhibition proposals from artists based in the region.
The deadline to apply is Friday, February 28, 2025. Read more about the application process
Export Development Canada (EDC) Supports
EDC understands the concerns of Canadian businesses and are committed to providing the support and information needed. They are deploying additional capacity to help meet your needs for predictability in the event of continued market fluctuations and trade uncertainty. Here’s how they can help:
- Manage volatility in the Canadian dollar exchange rate. They offer solutions that mitigate the risks associated with foreign exchange fluctuations by stabilizing your costs and protecting your profit margins from adverse currency movements.
- Access more working capital to manage existing contracts or to adapt and evolve your business: EDC guarantees let you access more working capital from your financial institution by taking some of the risk related to your business growth, enabling them to lend you more or release assets held as collateral.
- Protect against supply chain disruptions and the risk of non-payment of goods shipped to the U.S.: EDC trade credit insurance protects against losses in the event of non-payment from your buyer.
- Make informed business decisions with U.S. market intelligence and U.S. tariff information: The new U.S. market intelligence hub offers tariff resources and tools, the latest U.S. economic intelligence, and handy links to resources from our network of partners.
Alternatively, you can take this quick assessment to find out how EDC may be able to support your business now and in the future.
Rural Transit Solutions Fund: Webinars for potential applicants
The Rural Transit Solutions Fund, under the Canada Public Transit Fund, supports the development and expansion of locally driven transit solutions, by helping residents of rural, remote, Indigenous and Northern communities conduct their day-to-day activities, like access services, go to work, school, medical appointments, and visit loved ones. Want to learn more about the Rural Transit Solutions Fund.
On Thursday February 13, you can join a webinar that will focus on providing information on the process of developing and submitting an application to the Rural Transit Solutions Fund. Register Now
Electric Vehicle Charging Program (EVCP)
The Electric Vehicle Charging Program (EVCP) supports businesses, municipalities, and other organizations getting ready to welcome electric vehicle drivers by accessing rebates up to 46% off the purchase and installation of new EV charging stations in Alberta. That could mean a rebate of $5,000 for a Level 2 charger or even $75,000 for a DC Fast Charger. Eligible costs include equipment purchase, installation and construction, engineering, permitting, signage and electrical upgrading. The EVCP is open to businesses, non-profits, co-operatives, Indigenous communities, institutions, municipalities, multi-unit residential buildings, and others for installations in Alberta. Learn more about EVCP and apply here.
Crossword Puzzle
Crossword Puzzle Answers
Did you figure it out? Here are the answers for the February 3rd 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.
Other Events
BDC Entrepreneur's Learning Centre – Online | Register
BusinessLink Digital Marketing Program – booking into March | Find out more
Feb 13 | Understanding and Supporting ADHD in the Workplace | Register
February 19 | Start Up Women Entrepreneurs Tariff Focused Roundtable | Save the Date
Feb 27 | StrikeUP 2025 Webinar | Register
Useful Links
Follow us on social media for up-to-the-minute updates
The Voice: February 11th, 2025
February is Black History Month, Canada’s AG Day, Alberta’s Government will release budget 2025 on February 27th, Alberta Advanced Disposal Surcharge (ADS) Explanation and Expansion, and Extension of 2024 Charitable Donations to February 28th all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News February is Black History Month Each February, people across Canada participate…
Read More The Voice: February 3rd, 2025
Responses to Tariff on Canadian Goods, Alberta’s New Heritage Fund, and Fast Tracking Permit Approvals all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Business News Responses to tariffs on Canadian goods Premier Danielle Smith issue a statement following the announcement of tariffs on Canadian good stating that Alberta will work collaboratively with the federal government…
Read More The Voice: January 27th, 2025
Notice of Public Hearing: Tri-Area Intermunicipal Development Plan, City of Brooks Utility Updates, Local Advocacy Initiatives and Grand Openings all in this week’s edition of The Voice. Medicine Hat-Cypress News Notice Of Public Hearing – Tri-area Intermunicipal Development Plan The Councils of Cypress County, the Town of Redcliff and the City of Medicine Hat are…
Read More