Amid the upcoming fall referendum in Alberta, cities and towns in the province have been advised against engaging in campaign activities related to the referendum issues. Elected officials have been vocal about their views on Alberta’s independence and have been encouraging residents to take a stance in the upcoming October referendum. Recently, Edmonton City Council endorsed Mayor Andrew Knack’s motion affirming Edmonton and Alberta’s integral role within Canada, emphasizing the importance of Alberta remaining a province within a united Canada.
Mayor Knack emphasized the council’s responsibility in representing the city’s interests and expressed concerns about the distraction posed by the referendum question. He warned about the potential economic repercussions if Edmonton were to separate from Canada, highlighting the need to reassure potential employers and investors amidst the ongoing uncertainty.
While mayors and councillors are permitted to express their opinions, Alberta legislation prohibits municipalities from fundraising or advertising to support a particular side in the referendum. Under the Elections Finances and Contributions Act, municipalities are classified as prohibited corporations and are restricted from acting as third-party advertisers, limiting their financial involvement to under $1,000.
Political science professor Brendan Boyd emphasized the fine line officials must tread in expressing their views without engaging in overt advertising or campaigning. He noted that attending events and speaking engagements could potentially cross into the realm of campaigning. Meanwhile, Calgary Mayor Jeremy Farkas took a firm stance against separation, calling for action to oppose it and urging legislative changes to allow municipalities to formally campaign.
On the other hand, Calgary Coun. Landon Johnson advocated for neutrality among cities and towns to ensure a smooth referendum process, cautioning against taking sides. Elections Alberta recently issued a bulletin to clarify the rules for municipalities under the Elections Finances and Contributions Act, aiming to address confusion and misinformation surrounding referendum advertising regulations.
Boyd highlighted the challenge of distinguishing between general discussions about Canada and Alberta and actual advertising or campaigning efforts, particularly in the context of the referendum. The regulations governing municipal involvement in the referendum align with those for general elections, where municipalities are prohibited from campaigning for specific parties.
