Understanding EMS

There are many questions and perspectives in the community about the future of EMS in Lethbridge. It’s an important and complex issue, and we want residents to have clear, accurate information about where things stand and what happens next.

Here are some of the things we’re hearing that we want to clear up. 

Is there an offer from the Province that the City could accept today?

No. There is no current contract offer or 2.5-year extension for the City to accept. EHS has moved to a competitive procurement process, and the City is preparing a bid. This is the only option for the City to maintain EMS.

Why not hold a plebiscite on the future of EMS?

The cost, time and procurement conflicts of holding a plebiscite would eliminate our option to complete the bid process already underway which is the only option we have to continue providing EMS. A community vote would express residents' preferences, but it would not create the provincial contract we need to be the EMS provider – EHS will decide that through the procurement process. The City already understands the value residents place on EMS, and we share that commitment. Decisions about the future of EMS need to consider detailed operational, financial and service information in addition to community views. 

Why hasn’t the City shared the new benchmark rate?

The Government of Alberta owns the benchmark review and determines whether it is released publicly. 

Have any services changed? 

No, at this time the City continues to provide EMS in Lethbridge as we always have. Our current agreement is to provide these transition services up to March 31, 2027 as a new contract or new provider is put in place.

Who is responsible for EMS? 

EHS is responsible for EMS in Alberta and sets funding rates and service levels. The City is currently contracted to provide those services in Lethbridge.

Is there a decision before Council? 

No. Council's direction remains unchanged. In May 2026, Council upheld its decision not to accept the proposed EHS contract conditions because of the financial impact for Lethbridge taxpayers.
That direction preserved the City's ability to participate in further negotiations or procurement. The City is now preparing its procurement submission with the goal of continuing to provide EMS.

A hub of information is available that outlines timelines, past decisions and FAQs throughout this process. Visit: https://getinvolvedlethbridge.ca/ems-contract