An interim report from the Electoral Boundary Commission was released on May 25 with some suggestions that could mean big changes for the Airdrie and Cochrane ridings. While the changes are causing some head-scratching, local MLAs say your feedback is not only welcome, it's important.

 

Some proposed recommendations would see an Airdrie-Cochrane riding, while a Banff-Stoney constituency would capture any remaining areas of the current electoral divisions of Airdrie, Chestermere-Rocky View and Banff-Cochrane, taking in the Stoney-Nakota and Tsuut’ina First Nations reserves.

Banff-Cochrane MLA Cameron Westhead, says this is a decision for Albertans to make and he looks forward to hearing feedback.

"I am really interested to hear what the people of Cochrane and the rest of the constituency have to say with the proposed boundaries. This is an interim report and a there's going to be a real good opportunity for folks to have their say on what they think about the proposed changes."

Airdrie MLA Angela Pitt is also hopeful that her constituents will take the time to give feedback on the proposed changes.

"I really encourage people to get involved in this process. The people that know about best where the boundaries should be and how they feel like they need to be represented are the people that live in these communities. People need to be part of this process. It's very, very important."

Some public submissions suggest Cochrane and Airdrie are better aligned culturally and economically while creating a riding combing both First Nation reserves will create a stronger voice for our indigenous communities. Westhead feels no matter which communities fall into a particular constituency it is up to the appointed MLA to represent each area well in respect to their particular needs.

"No matter who I am representing I try to do my best at looking at all different sides and points of view. So this is really a chance for Albertans and voters to have their say on how they feel their representation has been and whether they think these proposed changes would suit them the best."

An initial deadline of February 8, 2017 was given for written submissions and 749 were received; 12 of those were later updated. Westhead is hopeful with the boundary recommendations being made public, people have a better understanding and more feedback will come forth in July.

"With the boundaries made more clear and with some substantial changes I really encourage people to participate in the process and let the commission know what they think about those changes."

Next round of consultation will occur the week of July 17. The Electoral Boundaries Commission will accept written feedback until July 8.

Read More:

Electoral Boundaries Report Could Mean Big Changes For Airdrie

 

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