As the fall referendum in Alberta approaches, cities and towns in the province have been informed that they are not allowed to advocate for any particular side on the issues at hand. Elected officials have been sharing their views on Alberta independence and encouraging residents to make their voices heard in the upcoming referendum in October.
Recently, Edmonton city council supported Mayor Andrew Knack’s proposal affirming that Edmonton and Alberta are integral parts of Canada and advocating for Alberta to remain a province within a united Canada. Mayor Knack emphasized the city council’s role in representing Edmonton and expressed concerns that the referendum question is diverting attention from important matters.
Mayor Knack highlighted the potential economic repercussions of Edmonton separating from Canada, stating that such a move could lead to significant economic challenges and require efforts to reassure potential employers and investors.
While mayors and councilors are permitted to express their opinions, Alberta legislation prohibits municipalities from fundraising or advertising to support a particular stance. Under the Elections Finances and Contributions Act, municipalities are classified as prohibited corporations and are restricted from acting as third-party advertisers beyond a $1,000 limit.
Political science professor Brendan Boyd emphasized the importance of elected officials being cautious about activities that could be construed as advertising or campaigning, such as attending and speaking at events. Calgary Mayor Jeremy Farkas strongly opposes separation and has called for changes to legislation to allow municipalities to formally engage in campaigning.
On the other hand, Calgary Councilor Landon Johnson believes that cities and towns should maintain a neutral stance to ensure a smooth referendum process without taking sides. Elections Alberta issued a bulletin to clarify rules for municipalities under the Elections Finances and Contributions Act to address confusion and misinformation surrounding referendum advertising standards.
Boyd noted that the same regulations governing general elections, where municipalities are prohibited from campaigning for specific parties, also apply to the referendum with its ten questions. He stressed the need for clarity on distinguishing between general discussions about Canada and Alberta and actual advertising related to the referendum issue.