Mayor Jeromy Farkas talked tough Tuesday, pledging to stand firm against the Stampede noisemakers, but it might not be so easy. Premier Danielle Smith still wants the new big-tent noise restrictions removed. She has the power and threatens to use it. The province is laying on heavy pressure. Here’s an educated guess: The rules will shift by Stampede opening. The provincials already detect signs of compromise at city hall.
Farkas's Strong Words
Smith’s crucial letter to the mayor and all councillors was drowned out Tuesday by the mayor’s stunning late-night “bulls–t” declaration. “By now you’ve seen the co-ordinated smear campaign from out-of-town politicians,” Farkas posted, referring to Smith’s claim that the fun is gone from Stampede. “They think you’re stupid and want you to believe that we’re somehow cancelling Stampede by asking the big tents to use the same rules in place at Coachella, Lollapalooza and all the other world-class festivals.”
Harsh words from a mayor who has a 70 per cent approval rating with Calgarians, according to a Leger poll commissioned by the mayor’s office. On Tuesday morning, council voted 9-6 to stick with the new noise standards designed to reduce downtown suffering during Stampede.
Provincial Power
All very dramatic, but entirely beside the point if Smith is determined to have her way. She clearly sides with Cowboys owner Paul Vickers about these new rules. She’s backed by federal Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre and a host of other conservatives. Under the Municipal Government Act, the province can do anything it damn well pleases in a city. This often tempts Smith to behave toward munis the way she accuses Ottawa of treating Alberta.
In her letter, she and a cluster of ministers say they want those noise restrictions eased before Stampede opens July 2. “Residents deserve to have their concerns heard and addressed,” Smith wrote. “However, meaningful consultation with affected stakeholders should occur before significant operational changes are implemented, particularly when those changes affect one of Alberta’s most important annual events. We strongly urge council to meet directly and expeditiously with the affected stakeholders, including businesses, event operators, tourism organizations, workers, artists and public safety officials. We further request that council provide a response by June 30 outlining the steps being taken to address these concerns and engage affected stakeholders. This will allow Alberta’s government to evaluate whether there is a role for the province in assisting the city and stakeholders to resolve this issue ahead of this year’s Calgary Stampede.”
Outlook
The mayor’s tough talk may not withstand provincial pressure. With the Stampede opening just days away, a compromise appears likely.
