Results for: Permanent residents

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.

Calgary City Council approved a motion to explore the possibility of allowing permanent residents to vote in civic elections. Councilor Courtney Walcott proposed the motion, arguing that permanent residents contribute to the community and should have a voice in local decision-making. The motion passed 9-6 despite objections from some councilors who believed that voting rights should be restricted to Canadian citizens. The motion will not result in immediate changes to civic elections but initiates a provincial discussion on the issue. Alberta’s Municipal Affairs Minister has stated that only Canadian citizens have the right to vote in civic elections and has no plans to amend this requirement.