Response:

Do you support the continued operation of the Lethbridge Fish & Game Shooting Sports Facility in its current location in Pennaquim Park?  

Absolutely YES! I have never been to your facility until this morning and I was totally impressed with what I saw. The size, location and safety features installed make this a perfect location. You have taken a poor piece of land and transformed it into valuable facility.

Do you believe the City of Lethbridge has an obligation to residents by assisting the Lethbridge Fish and Game Association provide a safe, controlled environment to use firearms?

Again, YES! The City should recognize and contribute whenever outdoor recreation can be combined with education.

 Do you agree that the LFGA Shooting Sports Facility represents an important community sport and recreation resource? 

YES! You have proved to me, by the sheer number of your members, that this facility is an important community resource. It also serves as an great venue for hosting events, bringing likeminded participants to the City. The fact that RCMP and City Police utilise your facility is also important.

 Do you believe that the LFGA Shooting Sports Facility should be treated differently than other sporting venues by the City of Lethbridge? If so, how? 

Not really. In a sense, it can be treated like any outdoor sporting facility. For example it can be looked at like the Lethbridge Tennis Club (Henderson Lake area)…strictly controlled access and by membership only.

What is your position on ethical hunting and our need to support modern methods of wildlife management. 

I agree with it. In certain years when wildlife can become a danger to humans, controlled culling is fine by me.

How would you support the extensive conservation, environment protection and revitalization, and wildlife management programs we provide? 

Now that I know more about your organisation, I will support it personally by spreading the word about what a great facility you have built and your mission statement. Hopefully, Municipal support will come in the form of grants, waived fees and utilities, etc.

Have you ever worked with the LFGA in the past and what was your experience? 

Only briefly. Years ago, your organisation was considering relocating to the County. I was the County Planning Officer at the time and Mr. Tom Hopkins visited me about finding a new site. Very cordial…very professional. Thankfully, you made necessary improvements and have chosen to stay put.

THANK YOU!

Nick Paladino