Response:

Thank you very much for the email, and the thoughtful questions.

I respect your organization immensely, and have several fond memories enjoying wildlife and going fishing with my Grandpa. I was raised with a respect for nature and hunting, and look forward to helping better serve those interests for our Fish and Game Association as City Councillor.

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

Yes, this is a prime location for this 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?

I believe the City needs to work closely with the Fish and Game Association, in order to provide a safe and informative venue to enjoy the use of firearms. 

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

I do yes. We are in an area rich with game opportunities, and the LFGA facilities are an essential tool in the continued education of hunting and wildlife activities. This is an important community resource yes.

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?

I believe the safety aspect of a firearms facility is paramount, and applaud the efforts of the LFGA of the continued safety measures and protocols in place, to ensure no one gets hurt while using the facilities. Aside from safety requirements specific to firearms use, this venue should be treated no different than other sporting venues in town.

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

I have a great respect for legal hunting and culling in our region. As mentioned above, my Grandpa was an avid hunter, and my Uncle’s continue that legacy. We need to ensure our procedures and regulations are in place with the licencing and registration of hunting permits as well as firearms to prevent over culling and illegal activities. I believe we have great measures in place and we need to continue to enforce them.

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

I believe the LFGA does a great job of this already. As Councillor I would reach out to your organization and find out the best methods of assistance that Council can provide to the LFGA in future decision making. It is important that organizations work together, to find the best solutions to issues and concerns.

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

I have not had an opportunity yet, but I look forward to continued correspondence with the LFGA as City Councillor.