Council Orientation

All municipal elected officials must now take orientation training due to changes made in 2024 by the Government of Alberta regarding requirements for orientation of council.

Previously, municipalities had to offer orientation to councillors, but attendance was optional. Additionally, the timeline to complete the training is now shorter.

Section 201.1 of the Municipal Government Act (MGA) outlines the orientation requirements that every municipal elected official must complete after a general election.

Orientation Training: Part 1

Must take place before or on the same day as the organizational meeting following a general election

• Role of Municipalities in Alberta
• Municipal organization and function
• Roles and responsibilities of council and councillors
• Roles and responsibilities of the CAO and staff

Orientation Training: Part 2

Must take place before or on the same day as the first regularly scheduled council meeting

• Key municipal policies, plans, and projects
• Budgeting and financial administration
• Public participation
• Any other topic prescribed by the regulations