Minister of Municipal Affairs Ric McIver unveiled proposed legislation today aimed at amending the Local Authorities Election Act (LAEA) and the Municipal Government Act (MGA). The changes, he said, aim to streamline municipal elections and enhance transparency and accountability within local governments.
During a press conference held at the Alberta Legislature, Minister McIver emphasized the importance of updating these key pieces of legislation to better serve Albertans and ensure that municipal governments are equipped with the tools they need to govern effectively.
“The amendments introduced today represent a significant step forward in modernizing our electoral processes and strengthening our municipal governance structures,” said McIver. “These changes will make it easier for Albertans to participate in local elections and hold their local representatives accountable.”
One of the key amendments to the LAEA includes the introduction of ranked-choice voting for municipalities with populations exceeding 5,000. Ranked-choice voting allows voters to rank candidates in order of preference, ensuring that winners have broader support from the electorate.
“This new voting system will promote inclusivity and give voters more choice and control over who represents them at the local level,” McIver noted.
In addition to electoral reforms, the proposed amendments to the MGA focus on enhancing transparency and accountability in municipal decision-making processes. The legislation will require municipalities to adopt codes of conduct for elected officials and establish clear guidelines for the disclosure of conflicts of interest.
“These changes will help foster a culture of transparency and integrity within our municipal governments,” said McIver. “By setting clear standards for conduct and accountability, we can build greater trust and confidence in our local institutions.”
The proposed amendments have been welcomed by municipal leaders and stakeholders who have long advocated for updates to the LAEA and MGA. Mayors and councillors from across the province have expressed their support for the reforms, highlighting the potential benefits for local communities.
“We applaud Minister McIver and the provincial government for taking decisive action to modernize our electoral laws and strengthen our municipal governance frameworks,” said Barry Morishita, President of the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association. “These changes will empower municipalities to better serve their residents and adapt to evolving needs and challenges.”
The proposed legislation will now undergo a thorough review process, including public consultations and debates in the Alberta Legislature, before it can be enacted into law. Minister McIver encouraged Albertans to participate in the consultation process and share their feedback on the proposed amendments.
“Public input is essential to shaping effective and responsive legislation,” said McIver. “I encourage all Albertans to engage in this important conversation and help us build a stronger and more accountable municipal government system.”
The introduction of these legislative amendments reflects the government’s commitment to modernizing Alberta’s electoral and governance frameworks. Minister McIver expressed optimism about the potential impact of the reforms, noting that they will help pave the way for a more inclusive, transparent, and accountable municipal government system in the province.
“As we continue to navigate the challenges of the 21st century, it is crucial that our municipal governments are equipped with the tools and resources they need to succeed,” said McIver. “These amendments represent a bold and ambitious vision for the future of local governance in Alberta, and I look forward to working collaboratively with municipalities and stakeholders to bring these reforms to fruition.”