Local elections and councillor accountability engagement

Albertans shared their thoughts to help strengthen democracy in local elections.

Overview

We gathered feedback to help inform potential legislative changes that would improve accountability and maintain public trust in local elections and elected officials in Alberta's local governments.

Input from Albertans will build on previous feedback collected in 2021 and 2022 regarding local elections and councillor accountability and help us develop potential updates to the Municipal Government Act and the Local Authorities Election Act.

The Local Authorities Election Act establishes the framework for the conduct of elections in Alberta municipalities, school divisions, Irrigation Districts and Metis Settlements. The Municipal Government Act includes rules governing the conduct of elected officials once they have been elected to council.

 

Timeline

  • Open

  • Results under review

  • Completed

Who is listening

Ministry of Municipal Affairs

Input received

Online surveys

Albertans completed 2 online survey between November 7 and December 6, 2023, to provide their input on potential changes to local elections and councillor accountability.

Targeted sessions

Representatives of municipal associations were also contacted to gather additional input.

Outcomes

Feedback will help inform potential changes to the Local Authorities Election Act and the Municipal Government Act, which could be introduced as early as Alberta’s next legislative session in spring 2024.