Progress has been made in a year

By Chantelle de Jonge Chestermere-Strathmore MLA

In last week’s column, I discussed the progress made since May 29, 2023, when Albertans entrusted the United Conservative government with the responsibility to lead this remarkable province. Since then, our government has remained steadfast in its commitment to fulfill promises, propel Alberta forward, and ensure fiscal responsibility. With pride, I once again share some highlights of our collective achievements and my endeavors as your dedicated MLA.

Legislative Progress and Commitment to Accountability

Throughout the past year, we’ve seen a comprehensive legislative agenda spanning two Sessions, which saw the passage of 22 Bills in Session 1 and 13 Bills in Session 2. We’ve fulfilled key platform commitments, and upheld our pledge to balance the budget for the third consecutive year, a milestone indicative of our prudent fiscal stewardship.

Advocacy and Engagement: Amplifying Constituent Voices

In my capacity as Parliamentary Secretary for Affordability and Utilities, I’ve been working with Minister Neudorf and been advocating for policies that enhance affordable and reliable electricity. I had the honour of joining Premier Smith and Minister Neudorf for two recent podium announcements in April on our work to make electricity more affordable. 

I have also been appointed as one of Alberta’s Pacific NorthWest Economic Region (PNWER) Delegate Council members and sit on The Energy Council’s Executive Committee and the Centre for Legislative Energy and Environmental Research (CLEER) Board of Directors. I also sit on the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (PAC), the Standing Committee on Alberta’s Economic Future, and the Alberta First Cabinet Policy Committee.

Community Engagement: Amplifying Constituent Voices

Integral to effective representation is active engagement with constituents, community stakeholders, schools, healthcare providers, local organizations, and our municipalities. I have had hundreds of discussions and group meetings to address individual case work, listen to concerns, and celebrate the remarkable achievements in the constituency. 

I was also pleased to attend in person over a hundred community events and celebrations and met some of the most incredible people that work and live in our constituency. Additionally, I hosted a series of five ‘Coffee Meet & Greets’ across Strathmore, Carseland, Lyalta, Langdon, and Chestermere, providing more opportunities for meaningful dialogue and feedback.

Local Wins: Investing in Education and Infrastructure

Budget 2024 heralded significant victories for our community, with notable investments in education and infrastructure projects. Noteworthy achievements include full construction funding for a K-9 Catholic School in Chestermere, design funding for a K-9 Rocky View Public School in Chestermere, and final funding for the completion of the new Langdon 7-12 High School which will be opening this fall. 

Moreover, infrastructure funding has been allocated to vital projects, highway, and water management initiatives. This includes the Strathmore Courthouse renovation and expansion, totaling over $4.5 million dollars. Under the Alberta Community Partnership Strategic Initiatives funding stream, the Ministry of Transportation and Economic Corridors provided grant funding of $1,048,125 for the Lyalta Wastewater Lagoon and Force Main Detailed Design Engineering. 

Nearly $14 million dollars has been provided for design funds for bridge work on CPR overpass on Hwy 1, 11 km East of Chestermere at Inverlake Overpass, planning funding for Hwy. 1 and Range Road 264 De Havilland interchange, planning funding for Hwy. 1 and Garden/Conrich Road interchange and for Hwy. 1 and Range Road 791 interchange, design funding for streetlights at Hwy. 817 and 564, funds for repaving between 1 km South of Hwy. 1 and three km north of the Town of Strathmore and upgrade of the Wastewater Treatment Plant PLC SCADA in the Town of Strathmore. 

I have heard your concerns regarding the high levels of traffic on Glenmore Trail and have been advocating for its improvement to accommodate both residential and industrial growth to the east of Calgary. Please note that Traffic Impact Assessments are underway on Glenmore Trail to determine necessary infrastructure improvements and ensure taxpayers dollars are being respected. 

Empowering Non-profit Organizations: Fostering Social Support

Our government remains steadfast in supporting the invaluable contributions of local non-profit organizations. I’m delighted to both support and report that several organizations in our Constituency have received collectively over $300,000 in small grants under the Community Facility Enhancement and Community Initiatives Program streams.

Investment in Fire Services: Ensuring Community Safety

Recognizing the critical role of fire services in ensuring community safety, we’ve allocated grants to support fire department training programs. Through Provincial Municipality grants, municipalities like the City of Chestermere and Rocky View County have received vital funding to offset training costs and enhance emergency response capabilities.

Looking Ahead: Continuing the Journey Together

As we conclude the spring session and embark on the summer recess, I eagerly anticipate further engagement with you all and continued advocacy on issues that matter most to you. I remain committed to representing the interests of Chestermere-Strathmore with integrity and diligence, and invite you to stay informed about upcoming events and initiatives. Whether through Fall Coffee meetups or personal meetings, your input is invaluable in shaping our shared future.

In closing, I extend my heartfelt gratitude for the privilege of serving as your MLA, and I reaffirm my unwavering dedication to advancing the prosperity and well-being of our constituency. Together, let us continue building a brighter future for all Albertans.

For inquiries or to schedule a meeting, please don’t hesitate to contact my office at Chestermere.Strathmore@assembly.ab.ca. Your voice matters, and I’m here to listen.

(Chantelle de Jonge is the MLA for Chestermere-Strathmore and the Parliamentary Secretary for Affordability and Utilities)