Calgary Councillors Face Backlash Over Climate Emergency Motion

Controversy has erupted in Calgary as four city councillors propose a motion to rescind the city’s climate emergency declaration. This move has drawn accusations of political maneuvering ahead of the municipal elections scheduled for later this year.

On Monday, Ward 1 councillor and mayoral candidate Sonya Sharp introduced a notice of motion to revoke the climate emergency declaration, originally established in November 2021. The motion, co-sponsored by Councillors Terry Wong (Ward 7), Andre Chabot (Ward 10), and Dan McLean (Ward 13), calls for a comprehensive audit of the city’s climate-related expenditures. All four councillors are seeking re-election under the Communities First political party banner.

Mayor Jyoti Gondek expressed strong disapproval of the motion, suggesting it reflects a shift in priorities as election season approaches. Speaking to reporters, Gondek stated, “I think people are waffling and flip-flopping because we are getting into an election season. Whatever is populist and can stir the pot and get you some news headlines is the way some people choose to go.” She further described the motion as a “party-led notice” that undermines the previous council’s efforts to address climate issues.

The original declaration has influenced budgetary allocations across city departments, with the Climate and Environment department projected to have a base operating budget of $26 million for 2025. It will also receive an additional $22 million for one-time programs and $22.7 million earmarked for capital expenditures. Furthermore, the city has planned $214.6 million in climate-related capital spending for 2026.

Sharp’s motion argues that one of the key justifications for the climate emergency declaration—accessing federal funds—has become obsolete due to the enactment of Bill 18. This provincial legislation restricts municipalities from directly receiving funding from the federal government.

In defense of the current declaration, Gondek emphasized the tangible effects of climate change being felt in Calgary and surrounding areas. She referenced recent events, such as wildfire evacuations in Yellowknife and severe local hailstorms, as indicators of urgent climate impacts. “People who live here will tell you that climate impacts are very real,” Gondek stated, underscoring the necessity of the city’s climate initiatives.

She also highlighted the declaration’s positive impact on Calgary’s reputation, noting that it has attracted investments from various industries. “Once we declared the climate emergency, we were able to strengthen how we fund the climate and environment team,” Gondek explained. “We were also able to say to businesses looking to locate here: we are taking this seriously.”

Interestingly, Sharp, who initially supported the declaration in 2021, has publicly expressed regret regarding her vote. “I shouldn’t have voted for it, and I think it’s OK to admit the missteps you might have taken the past four years,” she acknowledged.

As the debate intensifies, the political landscape in Calgary continues to evolve, with the upcoming municipal elections likely influencing the direction of climate policy in the city.