Alberta municipalities say proposed provincial law would create chill effect

The organization representing Alberta’s cities, towns and villages says a bill that would grant the province sweeping new powers over local governments is creating an atmosphere of fear.Tyler Gandam, president of Alberta Municipalities, said Monday his members are worried about potential repercussions if they disagree openly with the provincial government.“Alberta Municipalities is concerned that the bill will intimidate and even silence legally-elected officials who dare to criticize the provincial government,” Gandam told reporters, adding the bill sets a dangerous precedent that could undermine the power of local voters.