March is my favourite month. Not only is it my birthday month (yeah!), but it also really starts to feel like spring might be coming soon! The days get longer and the sun feels a little warmer on my rosy cheeks as I explore our local trails. I hope you’re taking some time to enjoy our beautiful outdoors and cozy times at home with loved ones, all of which are good reminders of the good things in life.
In February, I spent time preparing for the upcoming legislative session and budget. I’ve connected with constituents across the riding talking about their dreams for the 2025 budget, issues that are concerning for them, and so much more.
Trail Days with Sarah are back on and more are coming up. Trail Days combine my two favourite things – walks in the woods with my goofy great dane, Max, and time getting to know you! There are many ways that I connect with constituents, but there is something quite lovely about spending a few casual hours wandering the trails of one of our many provincial parks together and chatting. Sometimes we chat about serious things, and other times we don’t. I hope to see you at one soon. Politics and politicians don’t always have to be so serious. I’m actually pretty fun to hang out with too (or so I’m told)!
My email inbox has been inundated with messages from thousands of Albertans opposing opening our Eastern Slopes to coal mining. I’ve been working on this issue for the past 5 years, since before I was your MLA. There are many concerns about coal mining the eastern slopes: poisoning our headwaters with selenium, which will impact every living thing (from plants to wildlife, livestock, and us), further disruption to wildlife habitat, a lack of long-term economic benefit, a complete dismissal of input from Albertans showing repeated opposition, and an understanding that we cannot go back from these decisions. Coal mining on our eastern slopes impacts all of us and presents grave risks to various established industries like tourism, agriculture, ranching, and recreation. The continual flip flopping on this issue has also confused industry and Albertans and has dramatically eroded public trust in government.
This issue will continue to be a big focus for me both in budget debates and throughout the spring session. I will continue sharing your views in the legislature and holding this government accountable to share how these decisions were made and how they will address the very valid concerns that people have shared.
My colleague Nagwan Al-Guneid and I hosted a coal town hall to listen to peoples’ concerns directly. Over 400 people came to ask questions and share their views. We heard strong opposition to coal mining and concerns about its impact on water quality, wildlife, and local industries. This is exactly why we need clear legislation—such as the proposed Eastern Slopes Protection Act—that provides a clear path forward, safeguarding these special places for future generations while supporting sustainable economic growth for communities without compromising our water.
This month, I’ve also been working with my colleagues to process changes to the Alberta Healthcare system and what it means for your access to healthcare professionals and facilities. Thank you to all of you who have shared personal stories of your struggles with the healthcare system. All that helps me to understand more about this system and how best to advocate for you when I’m discussing healthcare with my colleagues and in the legislature. I remain focused on patient care and ensuring your tax dollars are spent in ways that best serve you.
March is a busy month in the legislature with budget related debates. My MLA on Tour events the first week of March are an opportunity for you to come by and share your thoughts on the budget – what would you like more or less of ?
Then we’ve got a couple of fun events to welcome spring! Sarah’s Spring Fling in Canmore on March 8th is a great evening of live music and fun conversation. The Biosphere Institute in Canmore will also host a silent auction, so we can help spread some community love.
I keep hearing from many of you concerns about wildfire and being prepared. On March 22nd, I’m hosting a wildlife preparedness workshop. Guest speakers will share their wisdom on wildfires and community resiliency. Then we’ll work through what you’ll need to prepare your property and yourself for the upcoming wildfire season.
Watch my social media channels for event registration links, or email my office to let us know you’ll be there.
There’s plenty of opportunities to engage this month and I look forward to seeing you, whether for a casual walk in the woods or a more serious meeting. I’m listening.
Sarah Elmeligi
