This release was issued under a previous government.

“Partnerships between our cities, towns and counties are part of what makes our great province even better. Whether it’s collaboration on projects like rural water treatment facilities or regional transportation plans, we want to ensure municipalities have the tools they need to continue developing effective partnerships – when and where they choose to. That is the intent of Bill 28, The Modernizing Regional Governance Act, tabled on Monday.

“Our caucus met today and had the chance to carefully consider initial feedback from mayors, reeves and councillors.

“Given where Bill 28 is at in the Legislative process, the time is right to consult with municipal leaders to ensure the bill properly allows communities to work together, while maintaining local autonomy for the betterment of the people they serve.

“Our government caucus has decided that before this bill proceeds any further, the Minister of Municipal Affairs will strike a task force with the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association (AUMA) and the Alberta Association of Municipal Districts and Counties (AAMDC) to ensure meaningful consultation on the bill and its objectives. Caucus also decided to include an amendment to ensure a formal appeal process for municipalities is included in the Bill.

“Alberta has eight years of experience in building regional partnerships and we will take the opportunity to learn from these. Alberta values the partnership with municipal leaders and I’m excited about the work ahead so we can keep building an even stronger Alberta.”