Bentley responds to proposed electoral boundary changes

BENTLEY -- The Town of Bentley has weighed in regarding possible provincial boundary changes. 

The changes outlined by Alberta's Electoral Boundaries Commission propose that the municipality join the new riding of Lacombe-Rocky Mountain House ahead of the 2027 provincial election. In a letter to the commission from last month, Bentley's Mayor Pam Hansen says they are mostly content with the province's plan.

"Overall, the Town of Bentley is pleased to see that we will be included in with the Lacombe-Rocky Mountain House electoral division," said Hansen. "Our close ties to Blackfalds, Eckville, Clive, Alix, Lacombe, and Lacombe County will ensure that we continue to advocate for local priorities through our MLA and work in collaboration to ensure that our taxpayers our well represented."

However, Hansen raises questions regarding the inclusion of Rocky Mountain House in the electoral district. She says Rocky Mountain House has close ties to the Mountain View-Kneehill District, and she feels they would be best represented through this electoral division.

Alberta's Electoral Boundaries Commission will be reviewing all the feedback and correspondence received by various municipalities next month before making a final decision on its changes in March. Premier Danielle Smith says the reason for the electoral boundary changes relates to the influx of newcomers to the province over the past several years.