RMA Releases Data Centre Resource for Members 

Following the release of Alberta’s Artificial Intelligence Data Centre Strategy in December 2024, there have been significant legislative and policy changes related to property assessment, taxation, electricity policy, and other areas that directly affect the data centre sector.   Given the scope and pace of the changes, many RMA members have questions and are seeking general guidance on data centre developments within their municipalities.   To assist members in navigating this emerging industry, RMA has developed a member resource that summarizes the policy and legislative […]

Alberta Nuclear Energy Engagement and Advisory Panel Report released 

On April 22, 2026, the Government of Alberta released the Nuclear Energy Engagement and Advisory Panel’s final report. The Panel was asked to advise Alberta’s government about its potential role in advancing a nuclear energy industry in the province, including identifying opportunities, concerns that should be managed, and potential conditions that will increase public confidence and support for safe, cost-effective, […]

Guidance from OIPC to Assist Rural Municipalities in Developing Privacy Management Programs 

The Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner (OIPC) of Alberta has announced the release of two new resources to help public bodies to establish and implement the privacy management programs (PMPs) required by Alberta’s Protection of Privacy Act (POPA) and Protection of Privacy (Ministerial) Regulation.   The legislation provided a one-year grace period for public bodies to establish and implement PMPs, which began when the legislation came into force in June 2025; […]

ARMA Grant Programs 2026-27 

The Alberta Recycling Management Authority (ARMA) is accepting applications for grant programs to help advance recycling and sustainability in communities across Alberta. RMA encourages members to apply to these programs as needed.   Tire Recycling Community Grant  The Tire Recycling Community Grant provides up to $30,000 to help municipalities incorporate innovative, sustainable products made from Alberta recycled tires into public projects that benefit the community such as parks, […]

RMA Assigns Status to One Fall 2025 Resolution  

The RMA has assigned a status to one Fall 2025 resolution which has received an initial response from government.   Immediately after resolutions are endorsed by RMA members, the RMA sends them to the relevant provincial or federal ministries or organizations for their initial response. Based on the response received, the RMA assigns the resolution a status and drafts an initial reaction.   RMA updates the resolutions database and issues bulletins with updates as responses are received. RMA has recently received responses […]

AER Updates to Closure Nomination 

The Alberta Energy Regulator (AER) has published updates to Directive 088: Licensee Life-Cycle Management and Manual 023: Licensee Life-Cycle Management. These updates include changes to Closure Nomination (CN), including reduced timelines for closure activities, and introduces the Licensee Management Program and Inventory Reduction Program.  Closure nomination is a component of the Inventory Reduction Program. It enables eligible requestors to have a say in prioritizing sites for closure […]

RMA Releases Bill 28 Analysis and Announces Member Webinar

RMA provides an in-depth review of Bill 28, including key concerns and opportunities for member engagement. RMA has published its analysis of Bill 28, the Municipal Affairs and Housing Statutes Amendment Act, 2026, which was introduced in the Legislative Assembly on April 2, 2026. The Bill proposes significant amendments to several key pieces of legislation, including […]

Cemetery Risk Management: Best Practices

To most people, cemeteries appear as quiet, low‑activity spaces, leading to assumptions that they present minimal risk. However, even with less foot traffic than other municipal areas, cemeteries still contain significant hazards. Municipal cemeteries are dynamic workplaces where maintaining grounds, managing burials, operating heavy equipment, and preventing unauthorized access require careful planning and deliberate procedures. […]

AUC Consultation on Proposed Standardized Setbacks for Renewable Energy Infrastructure 

In February 2024, the Minister of Affordability and Utilities requested that the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) pursue standardized setbacks for renewable infrastructure in the province. In response, the AUC consulted on appropriate setbacks from residences and other important infrastructure as part of the Rule 007: Facility Applications review. RMA provided input that setbacks are established locally and should remain at the discretion of municipalities. The revised […]

Enhancing Grocery Accessibility – Engagement Opportunity

The Government of Alberta is working to understand grocery accessibility in different communities, including rural. It is no secret that rural, remote, and northern regions may face challenges in accessing essential food services. Factors such as long travel distances, limited market competition, and other factors can restrict where food retailers choose to operate. In addition, […]