As the upcoming fall referendum in Alberta draws near, municipalities in the province have been instructed not to engage in advocacy on the issues at hand.
Amid discussions on Alberta’s potential independence, elected officials have been voicing their views and encouraging residents to cast their votes in the October referendum. Recently, the Edmonton city council supported Mayor Andrew Knack’s proposal affirming that both Edmonton and Alberta are integral parts of Canada, emphasizing the importance of Alberta remaining a province within a united Canada.
Mayor Knack conveyed to CBC News that the council’s duty is to represent the city’s interests, expressing concerns that the referendum question could be a diversion. He highlighted the potential adverse economic consequences if Edmonton were to separate from Canada, noting the need to reassure potential employers and address investors’ uncertainties.
While mayors and councillors are permitted to take positions on the matter, Alberta legislation prohibits municipalities from fundraising or advertising to support a particular side. According to the Elections Finances and Contributions Act, municipalities are classified as prohibited corporations and are restricted from acting as third-party advertisers, limiting their spending to under $1,000.
Political science professor Brendan Boyd from MacEwan University explained that while officials can share their opinions, they must exercise caution to avoid activities deemed as advertising or campaigning. He mentioned that attending and speaking at events could be perceived as promotional efforts.
Calgary Mayor Jeremy Farkas strongly opposes separation, emphasizing the need to resist and advocate against it due to the potential economic repercussions on Calgary. Farkas urged the provincial government and the premier to amend the legislation to enable municipalities to engage in formal campaigning.
In contrast, Calgary Coun. Landon Johnson suggested that cities and towns should focus on ensuring a smooth referendum process without taking sides. He emphasized the importance of maintaining neutrality, particularly among municipal bureaucrats.
Recently, Elections Alberta issued a bulletin to clarify the regulations for municipalities under the Elections Finances and Contributions Act. The bulletin aims to address confusion and misinformation surrounding what constitutes referendum advertising, ensuring compliance with electoral legislation.
Boyd noted that the same restrictions applicable during general elections, where municipalities are barred from campaigning for specific parties, also apply to the 10-question referendum. He stressed the need for clarity in distinguishing between general discussions about Canada and Alberta and actual advertising efforts pertaining to the referendum.
