Issue

The Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce has six policies core to our organization which inform the advocacy that we perform, and the positions that we take.
 

Core Organizational Policies

1. Government should not directly compete with the private sector
   • Government services should not duplicate those available in the local private sector. This creates an imbalanced business environment and adds to the obstacles facing fledgling businesses
2. Collaboration between government, community and industry is an effective way to increased economic opportunities
   • ​A collaborative partnership between the private and public sectors that builds on the strengths and expertise of both will enhance efficiency and promote  affordable, quality outcomes​
3. Government should engage local stakeholders in meaningful dialogue and consultation with regards to all matters that affect local business
   • Stakeholder engagement in the areas of taxation, user fees and local spending are of particular importance to local enterprise. As a result, government should make every effort to consult on these matters and explain how proposed policies and expenditures will affect business in our area
4. Pursuing policy that promotes the economic competitiveness of Lethbridge and the region is an effective way to ensure sustained prosperity
   • This can be accomplished by following best-practices and carefully benchmarking in order to ensure a competitive position
   • Focus on policies that facilitate developing enterprise and creating conditions to attract, develop and expand the business base
   • Ensure that government adhere to transparent and ethical standards of decision making
   • Ensure elevated stewardship and the incorporation of best practices in relation to the environment. Continue to promote and integrate local comparative advantages (i.e. renewable energy) to leverage investment attraction and create a foundation for future opportunities
5. Fiscal responsibility and transparency should be a core component of all government decision making
   
   • Careful oversight and management in this context is imperative to ensuring sustained prosperity
6. Regional collaboration should be a significant focus in government decision making as it leads to infrastructure efficiency and enhanced marketing potential. 
   • A region can attain enhanced outcomes in an efficient manner by pooling resources and working together to identify infrastructure priorities and targeted investments
   • Working together makes more sense from a marketing perspective as well