Alberta Premier Smith calls out federal interference in Edmonton housing rules

Edmonton residents learned this week that Alberta's Premier Danielle Smith has decided to reverse zoning bylaw changes made by the city in 2024. The Premier defended this decision on a call-in radio show, alleging that the federal government forced these changes to facilitate the construction of multi-unit buildings in older neighborhoods.

According to Smith, Ottawa provided Edmonton with a substantial sum of money in exchange for these zoning alterations. However, she labeled this financial incentive as a "bribe" that compromised the integrity of Edmonton's housing market. The move has led to the demolition of homes in various streets, resulting in decreased property values and parking problems for many residents.

Despite the backlash, the mayors of Calgary and Edmonton have criticized the government's reversal, with Calgary's Mayor Jeromy Farkas claiming that the province is undermining local democracy.