environmental demands through infrastructure technology. A recent $2 million partnership with Johnson Controls resulted in a comprehensive energy efficiency upgrade across all district buildings. “Johnson Controls came in and did an energy audit in all of our buildings, then provided recommendations for improvements that would reduce energy consumption. The idea behind the project was that if we engaged in all of the recommendations they made, they could guarantee the energy savings,” Zarichny says. This initiative, which included updates to rooftop units, boilers, and lighting systems, has reduced CO2 emissions by 609 metric tons annually—the equivalent of taking 124 cars off the road. Initially, Johnson Controls predicted approximately $50,000 in annual energy savings. However, the results far surpassed the original goal, with the district cutting utility costs by over $100,000 per year. “It’s the equivalent of about 289,000 liters of gasoline being saved or 124 cars being taken off the road,” Zarichny says, explaining how the environmental benefits match the board’s financial savings. It’s a win for both Medicine Hat’s budget and the planet! Finally, Medicine Hat’s commitment to holistic education is evident in its investment in its arts and athletics programs. Its Performing Arts Academy, which begins at the elementary level, is a cornerstone of the community, and the academy’s upcoming relocation to a new K-9 school will further enhance its offerings. The new school will have state-of-the-art facilities, including a 400-seat theater, a dedicated dance studio, and a fully equipped band room next to the theater. “We want this building to be one of the most accessible schools in the province, and we’ve extended that into its playground design… so we’re looking at developing a destination playground that will not only benefit the students but the community Photo Credit: Colton McKee 8 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 01
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