‘Cautiously optimistic’: How do rural Alberta, Edmonton, Calgary feel about Danielle Smith as premier?

The president of the Rural Municipalities of Alberta says his members want to 'actually get things done' with new premier Danielle Smith. But how do the big cities feel?

The president of the Rural Municipalities of Alberta says his members want to move forward and “actually get things done” with new premier-designate Danielle Smith. But how do the big cities feel?

Mayors of both Edmonton and Calgary have spoken about how important it is for municipal governments to have good working relationships with the provincial government.

Edmonton’s Amarjeet Sohi said he has not talked to Smith since her win, but that they met last week in Calgary to talk about priorities and he’s confident they can work together.

“We had a good working relationship with Premier Kenney and would like to develop that relationship with premier-designate Smith,” he said Friday.

In his official statement, the mayor highlighted Edmonton’s strength in industries like hydrogen, health sciences, artificial intelligence and renewable energy.

“In partnership with our new premier, we can help expand our economy, create well-paying middle-class jobs and tackle climate change to make our communities more sustainable.

“We are also eager to work alongside the premier in fulfilling the provincial government’s responsibility to tackle houselessness and mental health, and drug-poisoning crisis in Edmonton. Tackling these issues will reduce pressures on the overstretched healthcare and justice system,” Sohi said.

“We want to work together to advance truth and reconciliation and anti-racism efforts, and bolster the economic recovery of Edmonton’s business districts.”