Significant concerns and opposition were voiced at the Forestburg village regular council meeting May 9, regarding the Alberta Government’s proposed Bill 20 – Municipal Affairs Statutes Amendment Act, 2024.
During the session, Coun. Elaine Fossen expressed her apprehension, stating “I think that we should send a letter to the government asking that they rescind that bill.” Fossen highlighted the need for increased community involvement, “Not that it would do any good but I think we should be more involved.”
Alberta Municipalities (ABMUNIS) submitted correspondence for council review, outlining a preliminary analysis to Bill 20. The correspondence discussion revolved around proposed changes to the Municipal Government Act and the Local Authorities Election Act by Minister of Municipal Affairs Ric McIver.
Deputy Mayor Dwayne Giroux and CAO Dwight Dibben raised concerns over the implications of the proposed bill, including the potential to repeal bylaws, remove council members and the administrative burden.
“People are not going to want to run for council anymore” Fossen stated.
Mayor Blaise Young emphasized concerns regarding the transparency of the decision making processes under Bill 20, particularly regarding the establishment of municipal political parties as mentioned in the Bill for the cities of Edmonton and Calgary in the 2025 municipal elections.
“Council has certain regulations that must be followed,” Mayor Young pointed out, but “Under Bill 20 you can have caucus meetings outside of council” and “build your strategies outside of the democratic process.”
“Nothing is broken,” Fossen said, “ I don’t think we need to make any changes.”
The council also discussed Bill 21, the Emergency Statutes Amendment Act, 2024, expressing reservations about the provincial government’s increased authority to respond to emergencies.
In response, Fossen emphasized the importance of local autonomy, stating, “Municipalities know their municipalities best” and expressed reluctance of granting additional power to the government.
“It’s a control thing and I think we have to do something,” Fossen noted.
“We are a small community and chances are it may not happen to us but let’s not take that chance” voiced Fossen.
Deputy Mayor Giroux echoed Fossen’s sentiments and emphasized the collective responsibility of “All of us little people speak(ing) up” to advocate for community interests.
Council moved to accept the correspondence as information.
Cheryl Bowman
Multimedia Reporter
ECA Review
