Angela Pitt has taken her new role as Airdrie's MLA and run with it.

After confusion as to who would run for the Wildrose in the Airdrie riding of the 2015 provincial election, Pitt was the representative, eventually winning the local vote to become Airdrie's voice in the Alberta Legislature.

Reflecting on the past year, Pitt said it wasn't easy adjusting to the new role, but after finding her footing, the MLA said she would be fighting for Airdrie stronger than ever.

One of Pitt's concerns from the past year was the apparent lack of consultation on the NDP's numerous bills passed in legislature, including Bill 6.

"We've had lots of time in the assembly, many many bills have been passed - in my opinion too many."

Pitt said that alongside the Wildrose, they aim to slow down the push from the NDP while also looking ahead to Alberta's future with a record setting budget.

"I think that budget in itself was one of the most frightening things that has ever happened to Alberta," said Pitt. "When we're looking at $60 billion in debt over the next four years, this is scary stuff, this is debt that pre-dates Ralph Klein years, we're in for a rough ride."

With the price of oil where it stands, Pitt said the current budget isn't sustainable with the NDP's multi-year financial plan.

"The budget that they released was based on a $60 barrel of oil, what are we at? $38 today? The budget is off in itself but we get another crack at it here in the spring."

Focusing specifically on Airdrie, Pitt said progress is being made to ensure the city eventually gets a 24 hour health care facility, and that she's optimistic that 2016 could be Airdrie's big break.

"Airdrie's never had a Health Minister actually come to Airdrie, so that's a huge first step. The NDP government ran on a platform for health care and spending - that was their big priority, and if they truly believe that, providing Airdrie with access to a 24 hour health care facility is really a no-brainer for this government."

Pitt and the rest of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta will return for Spring session on February 9th, officially marking the new year in the Alberta Legislature.

Bradley Jones - airdrienews@goldenwestradio.com