The Commission’s interim report outlines proposed adjustments to Alberta’s electoral boundaries, including several changes relevant to rural ridings.
The Alberta Electoral Boundaries Commission (AEBC) has released its Interim Report, outlining proposed changes to provincial constituency boundaries. This review, required every eight to ten years under the Electoral Boundaries Commission Act, is intended to ensure fair and effective representation as Alberta’s population changes. Included in the report are the proposed electoral divisions, which can be viewed here.
Key changes included in the report include:
- Number of constituencies increases from 87 to 89.
- Calgary and Edmonton gain seats.
- Northern Alberta reduced from seven to six constituencies, with Lesser Slave Lake eliminated and a new Mackenzie riding proposed.
- Several new constituencies are proposed in fast‑growing regions surrounding major urban centres.
- Rural areas experience consolidation, with larger geographic ridings created to balance population shifts.
RMA Initial Analysis
RMA recognizes the importance of ensuring representation reflects Alberta’s shifting population. However, the proposed reduction in northern constituencies and consolidation of rural areas raises concerns about the ability of rural municipalities to maintain strong representation in the Legislature. Larger geographic ridings can make it more difficult for MLAs to effectively serve diverse rural communities, and the loss of dedicated constituencies may dilute rural voices compared to growing urban centres.
Electoral boundaries must reflect the principle of effective representation as outlined by the Supreme Court of Canada – meaning geography, community identity, and accessibility should be given the same consideration as population parity. Key considerations include:
- Effective Representation: Boundaries should balance population equity with rural realities that may impact effectiveness of representation such as distance, community interests, and identity.
- Urban-Rural Balance: Growth in Calgary and Edmonton should not come at the expense of rural voices.
- Geographic Challenges: Constituencies should remain manageable in size to allow MLAs to connect meaningfully with constituents.
- Municipal Integrity: Boundaries should align with municipal borders where possible to avoid fracturing communities.
- Flexibility in Variance: The AEBC should consider unique rural circumstances that justify deviations from the 25% population variance.
RMA will continue to analyze the proposed changes and advocate for boundaries that balance population equality with the unique realities of rural Alberta. As part of RMA’s formal input, clarity will be sought on the following:
- How will rural and northern constituencies continue to receive effective representation given the proposed reduction in seats?
- What steps have been taken to balance population parity with rural realities such as geography, community identity, and accessibility?
- What measures will be taken to support MLAs in geographically large ridings, given the Interim Report acknowledges the challenges of serving diverse communities across vast areas?
- The Interim Report applies the 25% population variance rule in several cases – how will the AEBC determine when unique rural circumstances justify further variance to preserve manageable ridings?
Next Steps
The AEBC is seeking public input on its recommendations by December 19, 2025. Written submissions can be made here.
The AEBC will also hold a series of public meetings in January 2026 to gather feedback on the Interim Report. The schedule of meetings and registration information will be posted on November 24, 2025. The Commission’s final report is due March 28, 2026, after which the Legislature will determine whether to adopt the new boundaries.
For questions or to connect directly with the AEBC:
- Phone: 780‑690‑2125
- Toll‑Free: 1‑833‑777‑2125
- Email: info@abebc.ca
Jared Shaigec
Policy Advisor
825.319.2312
jared@rmalberta.com
Wyatt Skovron
General Manager of Policy & Advocacy
780.955.4096
wyatt@rmalberta.com