The Alberta government has introduced new regulations, which the province says will increase transparency and accountability in local election processes. The changes, part of the Municipal Affairs Statutes Amendment Act (Bill 20), will come into effect on October 31, ahead of next year's municipal elections.
The Act was passed during the spring session of the Alberta legislature, and it focused on establishing more explicit rules for local elections.
Minister of Municipal Affairs Ric McIver emphasized the importance of these updates, stating, "In Alberta, local elections belong to Albertans. Citizens must be able to participate fully in local elections, following clear campaign rules that apply to everyone evenly."
Key changes under the Municipal Affairs Statutes Amendment Act
Local Authorities Election Act (LAEA) Amendments:
The new regulations under the LAEA include several significant updates:
-
Local Political Parties: The regulations permit establishing local political parties, specifically in Calgary and Edmonton. They can register and be listed on municipal election ballots. These parties must operate independently of provincial or federal affiliations and are not allowed for school board trustee elections.
-
Campaign Expense Limits: New expense limits will be introduced for local candidates and third-party advertisers throughout Alberta. These limits will be tied to municipal populations and adjusted automatically with demographic changes. The regulations will apply during both election and non-election years.
-
Use of Special Ballots: The regulations will expand the use of special ballots in local elections and strengthen the processes surrounding them.
-
Prohibition of Automated Voting Equipment: Electronic tabulators and other automated voting equipment will be prohibited.
-
Criminal Record Checks: Municipalities will be allowed to require criminal record checks for local candidates, enhancing the accountability of those running for office.
Local political parties and slates regulation:
The Act establishes strict rules for the registration, operation, and financial administration of local political parties and slates. These regulations ensure that local political organizations remain distinct from provincial and federal parties.
Municipal Government Act (MGA) changes
In addition to the changes to the LAEA, the Municipal Affairs Statutes Amendment Act also amends the Municipal Government Act. Key amendments include:
-
Councillor Accountability: Councillors will automatically vacate their seats upon disqualification. The provincial cabinet can also order a vote to remove a councillor if deemed necessary for the public interest.
-
Mandatory Orientation Training: Newly elected councillors must undergo orientation training to understand their roles and responsibilities.
-
Bylaw Amendments: The provincial cabinet can require municipalities to amend or repeal bylaws that exceed their legal authority or conflict with provincial policy.
Housing development initiatives:
The Act includes measures to facilitate affordable housing development, such as:
-
Tax Exemptions for Non-Profit Housing: Effective January 1, 2025, non-profit affordable housing will be exempt from property taxation.
-
Public Participation in Hearings: Municipalities must provide electronic options for public participation in planning and development hearings, while restrictions will be placed on holding unnecessary additional hearings.
NDP criticizes UCP’s Municipal Affairs Bill
Kyle Kasawski, the Alberta NDP's Shadow Minister for Municipal Affairs, has strongly opposed the United Conservative Party (UCP) government’s recent update on Bill 20. Kasawski claims the bill attempts to control local governments and promote officials who align with the UCP’s agenda.
In a statement, Kasawski argued that the bill undermines democracy by disregarding the autonomy of municipal officials and the citizens who elect them. He criticized the UCP for overreaching in municipal affairs while simultaneously telling the federal government to "stay in its lane."
Kasawski also accused the UCP of manipulating election rules to favour conservative candidates. He emphasized the importance of provincial support for municipal leaders. He called the decision to ban tabulating machines, which have been used for decades to streamline local elections, a costly mistake influenced by conspiracy theories.
"This will cost property taxpayers millions of dollars," Kasawski said. "At least we can be comfortable that there will be no chemtrails in local elections."
Sign up to get the latest local news headlines delivered directly to your inbox every afternoon.
Send your news tips, story ideas, pictures, and videos to news@discoverairdrie.com. You can also message and follow us on Twitter: @AIR1061FM.
DiscoverAirdrie encourages you to get your news directly from your trusted source by bookmarking this page and downloading the DiscoverAirdrie app.