In 1993, Ralph Klein rewrote the rules on political blame and Alberta’s municipalities haven’t stood a chance since. Back then, the price of oil had fallen through the floor and the province was more than $8 billion in debt. In response, Klein’s government sold public registries and liquor stores, privatized some parks, axed public staff, cut welfare rolls by 50 per cent and, eventually, demolished a Calgary hospital. Most of this punched down onto municipalities.
Why This October Matters in Alberta
Why This October Matters in Alberta
Why This October Matters in Alberta
In 1993, Ralph Klein rewrote the rules on political blame and Alberta’s municipalities haven’t stood a chance since. Back then, the price of oil had fallen through the floor and the province was more than $8 billion in debt. In response, Klein’s government sold public registries and liquor stores, privatized some parks, axed public staff, cut welfare rolls by 50 per cent and, eventually, demolished a Calgary hospital. Most of this punched down onto municipalities.