Municipal politics in Alberta: wards, financing, and the developers. (Part 1)

In the last municipal election in Lethbridge fewer than 30% of the population bothered to vote despite a staggering 29 candidates vying for the 8 council positions. How is it that a robust campaign with so many candidates did not generate a stronger voter interest? Some candidates argued for a ward system to be brought to Lethbridge to make it easier for voters to make their choices but others argued that Lethbridge should remain an at-large system. Red Deer actually had a referendum on the matter during this election but declined to move to a ward system. In Calgary and Edmonton the role of developers and the influence of political financing proved to be central election questions, questions that did not escape the Lethbridge election either. What is the role of money, financing rules, and special interest groups in the democratic process? Do we need more regulations or are the current rules about post-election disclosure sufficient? The speaker will consider these questions as he reviews the 2013 Municipal elections in Alberta. Speaker: Paul Fairie Dr. Paul Fairie graduated with his PhD in Political Science from the University of Calgary on November 12, 2013 so this marks his first public speech post-doctorate. He has taught a municipal politics course at the University of Calgary for a number of years and was a favorite commentator on all forms of media for the Municipal elections of 2013 in Calgary. He is currently setting up a consulting firm in Calgary. Date: Thursday, November 21, 2013 Time: Noon - 1:30 PM Location: Country Kitchen Catering (Lower level of The Keg) 1715 Mayor Magrath Dr S Cost: $11.00 (includes lunch)