Calgary’s Mayor, Jeromy Farkas, is calling for the city to officially support remaining part of Canada ahead of the upcoming Alberta referendum, which is just a month away. However, the city council is split on whether to get involved in this debate.
Mayor Farkas plans to seek his council colleagues’ formal endorsement for Calgary to stay within Canada either through urgent business or by convening a special council meeting. This proposal comes after a recent report from the University of Calgary School of Public Policy estimated that Alberta could face up to a $170 billion cost over five years if separation occurs.
Although local mayors and councils are not allowed to raise funds or promote either side of the referendum, they are permitted to take a stance on the issue. Edmonton Mayor Andrew Knack and his council have already voiced their support for Alberta’s continued unity with Canada.
Some Calgary councilors, including Ward 3 Coun. Andrew Yule and Ward 2 Coun. Jennifer Wyness, are backing Mayor Farkas’s initiative to establish an official position to reassure investors and address concerns about investment uncertainties.
While there is dissent among council members regarding the appropriateness of taking a formal stance on the referendum, some, like Ward 8 Coun. Nathaniel Schmidt and Ward 9 Coun. Harrison Clark, believe it is crucial for the city council to weigh in due to the potential implications on Calgary’s operations and infrastructure funding.
As the October 19 referendum draws near, the decision on whether Alberta should stay in Canada or pursue separation remains a pressing issue for the city.
