Hello Scott,

Do you support community-led organizations like the LFGA in their efforts to promote conservation, ethical hunting, and responsible firearms use for sport and education?

Yes, absolutely. I strongly support organizations like the LFGA that promote responsible, ethical, and safe practices in the outdoors. Community-led organizations are often more effective than top-down regulation in educating the public, protecting the environment, and preserving traditions like hunting, sport shooting, and conservation. LFGA has proven itself to be a responsible steward and community partner for over a century.

2. In your view, what role should the City of Lethbridge play in protecting access to outdoor spaces for recreation, conservation, and education? How will municipal policies ensure that legal, permitted outdoor recreational facilities, such as shooting sports ranges, are recognized and protected as part of the broader community landscape, and not unfairly impacted by land use changes such as urban growth or rezoning?

The City must actively protect existing outdoor spaces and ensure that legal, permitted recreational facilities—including shooting sports ranges—are recognized as valued community assets. As Lethbridge grows, it’s critical that we balance development with the preservation of these spaces, particularly those with deep community roots like the LFGA Range. I would support clear zoning protections and stakeholder consultation before any land use changes are proposed that could impact such facilities.

3. Should recreational activities such as sport shooting and archery receive equal consideration alongside other sports in municipal planning and recreation policy? Would you support including representatives from these sports as formal stakeholders in long-term discussions around recreation, land use, and community health planning?

Yes. Sport shooting and archery are legitimate and beneficial recreational activities, with physical, mental, and community-building value. They deserve equal consideration in recreation planning, just like hockey, soccer, or any other sport. I would support including representatives from these sports as formal stakeholders in city planning discussions, especially when land use or recreation priorities are being reviewed.

4. Do you personally participate in outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, archery, or shooting sports? If so, please share how those experiences shape your views on land use and recreation.

While I’m not currently active in those sports, I have great respect for those who are. I’ve had friends and family members who hunt and shoot, and I’ve seen firsthand how those activities instill responsibility, discipline, and a strong connection to the land. I believe those values deserve a voice at the municipal table.

5. In one or two sentences: Why do you believe you are the best candidate to support organizations like LFGA and the values we represent?

As a candidate who believes in individual responsibility, community partnerships, and protecting traditions, I will stand up for organizations like LFGA that do real work on the ground. I bring a practical, common-sense approach to council that respects lawful firearm ownership, conservation, and the rights of sportsmen and women.

6. Is there anything else you’d like our membership to know about your views on outdoor recreation, conservation, or supporting legal firearm owners?

I believe in evidence-based policy, not fear-based restrictions. Legal firearm owners, hunters, and sport shooters are not the problem—they’re often part of the solution when it comes to safety, education, and conservation. I will be a strong voice for fairness and respect when it comes to outdoor recreation and land use decisions in Lethbridge.

Thank you again for the opportunity to respond. I appreciate the LFGA’s long-standing service to the community and look forward to working with you.

— Suketu Shah

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