LETHBRIDGE – Alberta’s finance minister Joe Ceci met with members of the Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce Friday.
Ceci used the 90-minute meeting to ask for input on the upcoming budget – expected to be released by the end of October – and feedback about investments in hard and soft infrastructure.
“(We’re talking) about smart investments in infrastructure for this province, at a time when we’re experiencing some challenges to our economy,” said Ceci. “Counter-cyclical investments is something all of caucus and cabinet are thinking about and we’ll be bringing forward strategies to bolster the Alberta economy.”
Chamber president Melody Garner said she wants to make sure that during this budget period, businesses have some flexibility.
“Give us the freedom to grow and thrive, make sure we’ve got access to capital that we need,” said Garner. “Also, for them to look at their own government practices, just like our businesses do on a regular basis. We’re always looking at ways we can be innovative, that we can reduce our costs and increase our efficiencies.”
Infrastructure investments weren’t the only thing on people’s minds.
Bryan Kranzler, a trustee from the Holy Spirit Catholic School division, was there to voice his opinion on investments into education and maintenance of education facilities. But, he said the conversation focused on another big topic.
“A main discussion would be on the minimum wage,” said Kranzler. “On the effects it’s going to have on the different business in our area.”
The provincial minimum wage has already been set to raise to 15 dollars an hour by 2018. But, the minister assured they would pay close attention to its effects.
“Let’s have a great view on the impact to businesses, and any ways that the government can ensure that there’s a measured impact on our businesses and not big changes and sways,” said Ceci.
Minster Ceci said while some business oweners are worried about the minimum wage hike, he feels most of them are open to the change.
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