Spring has fully sprung across Banff-Kananaskis and while there will undoubtedly be one more annoying snowfall, I am turning to my garden with anticipation and imagination. The trails are now more muddy than icy (most of the time), and the sun feels warming and inviting. I hope you’re enjoying the change of seasons as much as I am and getting your hands/bike/horse/hiking boots dirty with adventure. Having so many outdoor adventures at our fingertips is one of the things that makes Banff-Kananaskis so great!
It’s wildfire season and I know many of you are concerned about wildfire risk.
At the end of March, I hosted a Wildfire Preparedness Workshop where our community experts reinforced that we all have a role to play in reducing the wildfire risk and keeping our communities safe. Alberta FireSmart has great resources to help you fire smart your home during your spring yard clean up. Take advantage of the numerous opportunities across the riding to learn more about wildfire preparedness, so check community boards and municipality websites to see what’s happening around you. If you missed the workshop, be sure to sign up for my e-newsletter (QR code next to my photo here) where we’ll be sharing the awesome workbook we made to guide through preparing and staying safe.
Coal mining on the Eastern Slopes has been a hot topic in the legislature this spring. In April, I joined my colleagues on a series of meetings with stakeholders and concerned citizens along the Eastern Slopes and in Lethbridge. What we heard repeatedly was concern about water quality in our headwaters and the potential impacts of coal mining on other industries like tourism and agriculture. Despite public backlash and previous moratoriums, the government is reopening pathways for open-pit coal mining in Alberta’s Eastern Slopes. Albertans want permanent protections for our headwaters, native grasslands, and way of life. A clear, resounding NO continues to echo at numerous rallies across our province, including the protests I attended outside the Alberta Energy Regulator (AER) hearings that took place in Calgary, Alberta (whose decision is expected at end of April.) The latest petition asking the government to protect our mountains and ban coal mining in the Eastern Slopes carried the voices of thousands of Albertans into the legislature when it was submitted in mid April. On April 9th, the NDP opposition team had a coal day in the legislature where all of our member statements and questions were about coal. You can watch that video on the Alberta Legislature Assembly You Tube Channel (April 9th, 2025 – Afternoon Session – Legislative Assembly of Alberta). You can see some of the videos I’ve recorded about coal mining on the Eastern Slopes on my YouTube Channel too.
MLA on Tour remains a critical part of my work in serving the people of Banff- Kananaskis. Last month I was also able to connect with some of you in Bragg Creek and Springbank. Whether we have a short one on one or a larger group chat, I’m always keen to hear what’s important to you. Check the graphic and my social media profiles for this month’s dates. We’ve nicknamed this spring the season of coal, corruption, and cougars because that’s what I’m hearing about the most. Our upcoming e-newsletter focuses on these issues, providing more in-depth information – be sure to subscribe!
Our spring legislature session has been a busy one with 20 different bills to debate. I’ve tried my best to represent you and speak to a broad array of issues. From the need for scientific data to inform wildlife management and decision making to improved funding for wildfire preparedness and suppression; from reducing red tape to improve the success of small business to the need for the Child and Youth advocate to collect and report on data pertaining to children in care. I supported our municipalities in asking why the Government is pushing a provincial police force that will increase municipal costs, and I asked about tangible supports for mental health and people struggling with addiction. The last few weeks, I’ll be able to speak to all of these topics and more. Check out my YouTube channel to see all of my legislature appearances in bill debate. We’ve also posted my series of discussion with Ministers in budget estimate debate.
The legislature is always a fast-paced time, and I am continually reminded of how important it is to take each of you with me into the House – it is my job to represent you in Edmonton. At the same time, I’m also looking ahead to spending more time outdoors — hosting more Trail Days with Sarah and continuing our regular MLA on Tour visits throughout the region. This corner of Alberta holds a special place in my heart, and I’m always grateful for the chance to take in the fresh foothills air and stunning views — especially when I get to share those moments with you. Whether I’m in Edmonton or back home in Canmore, our constituency office is here for you. Please don’t hesitate to connect.
Sarah Elmeligi
