The Federal Electoral Boundaries Commission for Alberta is proposing changing existing boundaries in Alberta which would realign communities into new ridings. These changes would see Beaumont be included in a new district named Sherwood Park-Beaumont and Leduc County would be divided among five districts.
However, a group of municipalities, school boards, business organizations and community groups are calling on the Commission to reconsider proposed changes.
“Commission members have a tough task in balancing different considerations and ensuring fair representation, but we’re concerned that these changes fragment the region and could negatively affect our voice at the federal level,” says Beaumont Mayor Bill Daneluik.
“I’m hopeful the Commission will take a thoughtful second look at the proposal and reconsider the changes.”
Many of the communities and organizations in the Edmonton-Wetaskiwin riding have longstanding relationships and economic interests and changing this riding could impact that negatively.
An in-person hearing was held in September and the Commission is still accepting written submissions until Nov.1 to collect feedback on the proposed new ridings.
shaela.dansereau@pipestoneflyer.ca
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