Ward 1 - Sonya Sharp

Clarifying government roles and The City of Calgary’s core mandate

Staying Focused on What Matters Most Clarifying government roles and core mandate

On June 24, 2025, Councillor Sharp brought forward a motion aimed at clarifying The City of Calgary’s responsibilities in delivering, supporting, and advocating for various services. The goal was to improve alignment, transparency, and strategic decision-making as the City continues to face increasing demands and financial pressures.

Over time, municipalities like Calgary have taken on more responsibilities, some of which fall under provincial or federal jurisdiction. This has led to concerns about stretched resources, rising property taxes, and the need for a more focused approach to core municipal services such as infrastructure, planning, safety, and water.

Purpose of the motion

The motion proposed the following:

  • A clearer framework for identifying which services are delivered by the City, supported through partnerships, or fall under advocacy
  • Better alignment with existing fiscal and engagement frameworks
  • Improved transparency for residents regarding how municipal decisions are made
  • Support for more consistent budget planning and service prioritization

The motion sought to provide both Council and the public with a more structured understanding of municipal responsibilities and limitations.

Outcome

The motion was debated at Council on June 24 but unfortunelty failed in an 8-6 vote.

Although the proposal did not move forward, it contributed to an important discussion about the role of local government, the limits of municipal jurisdiction, and the importance of intergovernmental collaboration in meeting the needs of Calgarians.

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