Proposed changes to the Municipal Government Act would set clear, provincewide standards for councillor conduct and establish a consistent process to address complaints. These changes would help ensure local decisions are made with integrity and in the best interests of the communities councillors serve.
“Albertans expect and deserve to have confidence that their local leaders act with integrity and professionalism. These reforms would set clear expectations and provide impartial tools including a third-party complaint and appeals process to resolve issues before they escalate, strengthening municipal governance and giving councillors and community members assurance that challenges are handled fairly.”
If passed, the new Councillor Accountability Framework would set consistent standards of conduct, misuse of influence, unauthorized use of municipal assets, disclosure of confidential information, and serious misconduct. It would also preserve councillors’ ability to speak openly and represent their communities while upholding transparent and professional conduct.
“Alberta Municipalities and its members welcome the introduction of an accountability framework, which features independent, third-party investigators – an improvement we've been calling for since the concept of codes of conduct was introduced. We look forward to working closely with the provincial government in the weeks ahead to figure out the details related to the framework's implementation.”
Under the framework, complaints will be directed to an independent third party appointed by the province, with municipalities covering investigation costs. Municipal Affairs would also have the authority to initiate investigations directly when necessary. Appeals would be heard by a commissioner drawn from a provincial roster. Complaints involving pecuniary interest that could result in disqualification may proceed to court if required.
"Our Caucus is pleased to see the Government of Alberta fulfill its promise to outline clear, consistent standards and dispute resolution processes for municipally elected officials, and looks forward to further information.”
“RMA supports clear and meaningful accountability requirements for municipal councils that foster a culture of respect and collaboration. We look forward to seeing the details of the new councillor accountability framework and providing input to the Government of Alberta to ensure the approach balances allowance of robust political debate with mutual respect among councillors and between councils, municipal staff, and the public.”
Additional proposed changes would improve transparency and accountability in local government, including requiring municipalities to publicly disclose the salaries of municipal officials and requiring chief administrative officers to report to council on the use of natural person powers exercised outside existing bylaws or resolutions, with defined exceptions.
Quick facts
- The Premier’s 2025 mandate letter to the Minister of Municipal Affairs directed the creation of a standard “universal” code of conduct for elected municipal officials.
- The Municipal Government Act was amended in 2025 to prohibit councils from adopting their own codes of conduct.
- The proposed changes to chief administrative officers build on amendments introduced in the Municipal Affairs Statutes Amendment Act, 2025.