Results for: Bill 20

Calgary City Councillor Courtney Walcott has denounced Premier Danielle Smith’s recent social media post as “misinformation,” claiming it misrepresents a motion passed by the city council. The motion, which passed 9-6, calls on Alberta Municipalities to explore the possibility of allowing permanent residents to vote in civic elections. However, Smith’s post suggests that the council is attempting to alter election laws to allow non-citizens to vote, which is not the case. Walcott and Mayor Jyoti Gondek both criticized Smith’s post and the proposed Bill 20, which would give the provincial government more control over municipal affairs. Municipal Affairs Minister Ric McIver has promised to consult with municipal leaders before amending the bill, but some argue that these consultations should have been held prior to its introduction.

The Alberta Municipalities organization, representing over 85% of the provincial population, has expressed concern over a lack of consultation regarding amendments to Bill 20, which would grant Premier Danielle Smith’s government significant authority to dismiss councillors and cancel bylaws. The amendments are expected to be introduced to the legislature next week, despite the tight timeframe for consultation and strong opposition from municipal leaders. Municipal Affairs Minister Ric McIver initially promised consultations but has not responded to requests for comment, and the opposition Alberta New Democrats have called for the bill to be withdrawn, citing the lack of credible consultation and the alarming nature of the proposed powers.

Just days after the Alberta government announced its intention to allow political parties at the municipal level in Edmonton and Calgary, Transparent and Active Partnerships Edmonton (TAPYeg) has declared its formation and will field candidates in the next election. While some oppose Bill 20, citing concerns about provincial interference and party-line voting, TAPYeg President Jeffrey Hansen-Carlson believes political parties can enhance democracy and improve efficiency in local government. Despite surveys indicating that a majority of Albertans oppose municipal political parties, TAPYeg is optimistic and expects other parties to emerge across the political spectrum. Municipal elections in Edmonton and Calgary will take place in 2025.

Alberta Municipalities, representing the province’s cities, towns, and villages, has expressed concerns over a bill that grants the provincial government sweeping powers over local governments. The legislation, introduced by Premier Danielle Smith, empowers the cabinet to dismiss councillors and overturn local bylaws, raising fears of intimidation and the silencing of elected officials critical of the provincial government.