The Alberta government has been providing the City of Lethbridge with an annual grant since 2019 to support the effective collection and disposal of drug-related debris. City administration recently brought forward a motion to Lethbridge City Council to approve the funding of $115,000 for 2024-2025, which was unanimously passed. This funding is necessary due to the closure of the ARCHES site, which prompted the provincial government to shift money allocated for needle collection to the city. The funding will go towards the Needle Debris Collection Program through the Clean Sweep Program (CSP), managed by the Downtown Lethbridge Business Revitalization Zone (BRZ).
Sarah Amies, executive director of the Downtown BRZ, stated that the funding supports the larger clean sweep efforts in Lethbridge. The previous year, over 5,000 needles were picked up in the downtown area, with over 18,000 needles and 3,600 pipes collected in the rest of the city. This government contract enables the program to continue addressing drug-related debris. The grant allows the program to attend identified debris hotspots in the city and conduct cleanups twice daily, five days a week. The teams have specially manufactured sharps boxes for safe disposal and work with a company to collect and dispose of needles several times a month.
The Needle Debris Collection Program focuses on areas like 13th St. North and south side parks that are frequently used and prone to drug-related debris. Hotspot zones change according to fluctuations in activity and movement within the city. The teams are dedicated to maintaining cleanliness and safety in these areas to reduce the impact of the drug crisis on the community. Individuals who come across any drug-related debris are encouraged to report it by calling 311 or contacting the Needle Debris Hotline at 403-332-0722. By working together with the community, the City of Lethbridge aims to effectively address the ongoing challenges related to drug-related debris.
The continued support from the Alberta government for the City of Lethbridge’s efforts in collecting and disposing of drug-related debris is crucial in combating the impacts of the drug crisis. With the closure of the ARCHES site, the city has taken on the responsibility of needle collection, which is now carried out through the Needle Debris Collection Program under the Clean Sweep Program. The funding allocated for this purpose enables the program to operate efficiently and make a meaningful difference in maintaining cleanliness and safety in the community.
The extensive work carried out by the Needle Debris Collection Program in Lethbridge includes regular cleanups in identified hotspot zones, such as specific parks and public areas that are prone to drug-related debris. The teams responsible for handling the debris have the necessary equipment, such as specially manufactured sharps boxes, to ensure safe disposal. By partnering with a company for proper needle disposal, the program ensures that collected items are handled in a responsible and secure manner. This proactive approach to addressing drug-related debris contributes to a cleaner and safer environment for all residents in Lethbridge.
The collaborative efforts between the City of Lethbridge, the Downtown BRZ, and the Alberta government demonstrate a commitment to addressing the ongoing challenges posed by drug-related debris in the community. By providing financial support and resources for programs like the Needle Debris Collection Program, the government acknowledges the importance of actively combating the negative impacts of the drug crisis. Through continuous monitoring of hotspot zones and regular cleanups, the program plays a vital role in maintaining public health and safety. The community’s involvement in reporting any drug-related debris contributes to the overall success of these efforts in creating a cleaner and more secure environment for everyone.
