Council directs further action to improve downtown safety and public spaces

Lloydminster, AB/SK – Lloydminster City Council has directed Administration to make targeted changes to downtown benches and greenspaces and to consider public-safety impacts. The direction is the latest step in the City’s ongoing response to social disruption affecting the downtown and other areas of the community.

During the Regular City Council Meeting on Monday, August 17, 2026, Council voted to direct Administration to carry out the recommendations of the Safe + Inclusive Downtown / Crime Prevention Program Sub-Committee of Downtown Lloydminster. Those recommendations include the temporary removal of benches, as well as enhanced tree and shrub management.

Council also directed Administration to explore potential future programs and community engagements to support, mitigate, or respond to the impacts of social disruption.

“Simply put, our downtown needs to be safe, clean, and welcoming for everyone,” said Mayor Gerald Aalbers. “We recognize the concerns being raised by downtown businesses and residents, and the City is taking action. We will continue using every appropriate tool available to us to improve public safety and address the impacts of social disruption in our community.”

The City has significantly expanded its response in recent months through a combination of enforcement, cleanup, prevention, navigation, and community supports. This includes the introduction of the Clean City Team and the Enforcement and Navigation Unit (ENU), enhanced enforcement of unlawful behaviour, additional patrols, and an ongoing response to encampments and other areas of concern. Residents and businesses can contact the ENU directly at 780-870-0440.

Since their introduction, the Clean City Team and Enforcement and Navigation Unit have demonstrated positive impacts, including improved Downtown cleanliness, increased enforcement response and more direct connections to available supports.

Council’s direction will allow Administration to implement changes to downtown benches and greenspaces where appropriate. These measures are intended to reduce the impacts of social disruption and improve the experience of people who live, work, and visit downtown.

The City will continue working with downtown businesses, residents, enforcement agencies, social-service organizations, and other community partners as additional measures are implemented.