Premier Smith reverses Edmonton zoning changes, calling federal funding a 'bribe'

Premier Danielle Smith has reversed Edmonton's 2024 zoning bylaw changes that allowed multi-unit housing complexes in older, established neighbourhoods, characterizing the federal funding tied to the changes as a bribe.

Smith said the zoning changes disrupted the integrity of home building processes and caught homeowners off-guard. She cited property value declines and parking issues as reasons for reversing the rules. She made the comments on a call-in radio show.

Smith said Ottawa offered Edmonton millions in funding in exchange for the zoning changes. Her government directed the City of Edmonton to abandon the rules allowing multi-unit complexes, saying they may not be a good fit for those neighbourhoods.

Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas called the province's decision a "disturbing attack on local democracy," warning that while the order does not affect Calgary on this issue, nothing stops the province from imposing its will on other matters. Farkas said it is important to respect the mandate given to municipal leaders to make decisions deemed best for their citizens. Edmonton Mayor Andrew Knack retweeted Farkas's concerns Friday.

Smith had directed Calgary to maintain its current housing zoning approach on Thursday. Calgary had already rolled back similar rules due to public outcry.