5: How Does Local Government Work? Flashcards
What is the role of local government in relation to speed limits?
Local government is in charge of speed limits.
Who did the students approach to discuss changing the speed limit?
Their councillor.
What did the students need to convince to change the speed limit?
The city planning and transportation committee.
What materials did the students prepare for their presentation?
Pictures of the school, sidewalk, street, and a graph showing the speed of the cars.
What was the committee’s initial reaction to the students’ presentation?
The head of the committee was impressed but did not agree to lower the speed limit.
What did the committee ultimately decide regarding the speed limit near the school?
To lower it to 40 km/h.
What additional safety measure did the committee recommend?
Building a crash guard at the curve.
What is a councillor?
A person elected to local government.
What is a crash guard?
A barrier built between the sidewalk and street.
What is a council?
A group of elected representatives who make decisions for a local area.
Fill in the blank: A _______ is a person elected to local government.
[councillor]
Fill in the blank: A _______ is a barrier that is built between the sidewalk and street.
[crash guard]
True or False: The students’ presentation was rejected without any discussion.
False.
What is the importance of having a level of government that can respond to local needs?
It is important in a democracy.
How can citizens participate in local government?
By organizing themselves to meet needs not met by government.
What did the committee plan to do with their recommendations?
Take them to the council for approval.
What are examples of local government services that promote equality in a democracy?
Streets & roads, Libraries
Local government services aim to provide equal access to essential facilities for all citizens.
What is the main purpose of local government?
To provide services to meet community needs
Local government addresses various needs based on the specific context of the community.
Fill in the blank: Local government provides essential services like _______.
Seniors’ facilities, Public transportation, Animal control, Parks & recreation, Fire protection, Waste disposal
These services aim to enhance the quality of life for residents.
How does local government impact daily life?
By providing services that affect everyday activities
For example, snowplowing can affect transportation to school or work.
True or False: Local government only exists in urban areas.
False
Local government exists in cities, towns, and rural areas to address diverse community needs.
What role do school boards play in local government?
School boards are part of local government and may work with it to provide services such as libraries, transportation, and recreation facilities.
How do local governments primarily raise money?
Local governments primarily raise money through taxes collected from property owners, including houses, businesses, and land.
What are expenditures in the context of local government?
Expenditures are the expenses that local governments incur while providing services.
What are two examples of services provided by local governments?
- Libraries
- Transportation
What is the relationship between local services and taxes?
Most people feel it is their right to have local services provided, and they are responsible for paying the taxes that fund these services.
What does a bar graph represent in local government finance?
A bar graph represents the amounts of revenue or expenditures, allowing comparisons by the length of the bars.
Fill in the blank: Local governments collect taxes from people who own _______.
[property]
Approximately how much revenue does the County of Lethbridge collect in property taxes?
Information not provided in the text.
What is the largest expenditure for the government of Camrose County?
Information not provided in the text.
True or False: Local governments only rely on federal funding for their revenue.
False
What is one type of income besides property taxes that local governments may collect?
- User fees and sale of goods
What is a common responsibility of citizens in relation to local government services?
Paying taxes
What type of services do local governments typically provide?
- Roads
- Parks
- Water Management
- Protective Services
- Administration
What are bylaws?
Bylaws are laws that are passed by a local government.
What do bylaws specify?
Bylaws specify people’s behaviour.
What is the purpose of bylaws?
Bylaws help keep people safe and help the community run smoothly.
Where can bylaws be enforced?
Bylaws can only be enforced in the area where they have been passed.
What is the responsibility of individuals regarding bylaws?
People are responsible for knowing and obeying the bylaws.
What are the consequences of not obeying bylaws?
Justice usually requires that they pay a fine.
What action will the Municipal District of Rocky View take regarding noxious weeds?
Rocky View will take over a large parcel of agricultural land infested with noxious weeds and start a weed control action plan.
How much does Rocky View spend annually on programs to fight weeds?
$250,000.
What happens if a landowner refuses to obey a bylaw regarding weed control?
The owner will be billed for the weed control action taken by Rocky View.
What educational activities does Rocky View conduct regarding noxious weeds?
Year-round educational meetings, workshops, and tours.
Fill in the blank: Bylaws help keep people _______.
safe.
True or False: Every community has its own bylaws.
True.
What does the sign ‘NO SKATEBOARDING’ indicate?
Skateboarding is not allowed.
Fill in the blank: The maximum fine for not cleaning up after your dog is _______.
$500.
What does Rocky View do when a landowner fails to treat noxious weeds?
Rocky View takes over the land and starts weed control immediately.
What is the consequence for violators of the rollerblading bylaw?
Violators will be prosecuted.
Who usually introduces new bylaws or changes to bylaws?
A councillor at a council meeting
What must happen before a bylaw is voted on by members of the council?
It must be considered three times
What opportunity do opponents of a motion have during the bylaw process?
Three chances to speak out and argue against it
What happens if the majority of councillors vote in favour of a motion?
It will be passed and become a bylaw
What is an example of a bylaw that some local governments have discussed?
A bylaw requiring helmets for tobogganing
Can federal or provincial governments provide local services and make laws?
Yes
Why have we chosen to have a local level of government in Canada?
Because people living in a community understand the issues affecting their daily lives
What is local government an expression of?
Our belief that democracy is the way we want to run our country
What opportunities does local government provide for participation?
- Running for office
- Voting
- Taking part in town hall meetings
- Making presentations to government
What is a motion?
An idea or proposal discussed and voted on at a meeting
True or False: Passing a bylaw is an example of decision making by consensus or compromise.
True
Why is it important for members of the public to attend local government meetings?
It is important in a democracy
What is a community forum?
A meeting place for public discussions
Community forums allow citizens to voice their opinions on local issues and bylaws.
What is the purpose of the St. Albert Task Force on Vandalism and Youth Issues community forum?
To discuss a Curfew Bylaw on May 16, 2006
Citizens are invited to participate in the discussion.
Why are community forums important in a democracy?
They provide citizens with opportunities to express their views on local issues
They promote civic engagement and allow for public input on governance.
What is a curfew?
A limit on what hours people can be outside their homes
Curfews are often imposed to ensure safety and reduce crime.
What do curfew bylaws in some Alberta municipal areas state?
Persons under 18 are not allowed in public places between 1 a.m. and 6 a.m. unless with an adult
This aims to limit youth exposure to potential dangers late at night.
What is the opinion of the resident from Fort Saskatchewan regarding curfews?
They believe a curfew bylaw is a great idea
The resident feels that curfews can help prevent vandalism.
What time does the curfew law in Drumheller require teens to be home by?
10:30 p.m.
This curfew is considered early, especially on weekends by some teens.
What is the viewpoint expressed by Stephen Jenuth from the Alberta Civil Liberties Union?
Teens should not be labeled as bad people and restricted after 4 p.m.
This viewpoint emphasizes respect and trust towards teenagers.
True or False: Community forums only discuss curfew bylaws.
False
Community forums can address various local issues and bylaws.
Fill in the blank: A curfew is a limit on what hours people can be _______.
outside their homes
Curfews are often implemented to manage youth behavior.
What is a municipal area?
A region that has its own local government.
What defines a municipal district?
A rural area that has its own local government.
What types of local governments are included in urban areas?
Cities, towns, and villages.
Which groups also have local governments in Alberta?
First Nations reserves and Métis settlements.
What are the two main categories of local governments in Alberta?
Urban and rural.
What is the role of the Mayor?
Top elected official usually elected by voters.
What is the title for the top elected official in a municipal district?
Reeve.
Who is the chief in a First Nations community?
A councillor elected as chief electoral officer by council.
How is a chairperson selected in local government?
Selected by council members.
How many councillors are typically found in towns?
Between 7 and 15, typically 7.
How many councillors are usually elected for villages?
Usually 3.
How is the council for a First Nation typically selected?
Number of councillors depends on size of First Nation, selected by community.
What is the World Mayor Project?
An international project asking people to nominate outstanding mayors.
Fill in the blank: A municipal area is a region that has its own _______.
local government.
True or False: All local governments in Alberta are urban.
False.
List the types of local governments in Alberta.
- Urban local governments
- Rural local governments
- First Nations reserves
- Métis settlements.
What are First Nations governments on reserves called?
Band councils
The head of the band council is a chief.
Who helps the chief govern the band in a First Nations government?
A council
The council assists the chief in governance.
How may a band elect its representatives?
According to rules set up in the Indian Act or according to the community’s traditions
This may include using consensus.
What are bylaws passed by a band council called?
Band Council Resolutions
Who is elected to their jobs by the citizens of the community in local government?
Mayors, reeves, and councillors
What do mayors and reeves ensure during council meetings?
That council meetings are run according to the rules of the municipality
What do councils usually organize to manage community services?
Committees
These committees are responsible for services such as transportation, public works, and parks.
What role do councillors play in committees?
They take part in these committees
What can members of the public do during council committee meetings?
Make presentations to council committees
What do advisory committees do?
Advise the council on local issues
Examples include a police commission, library board, or arts foundation.
Fill in the blank: Advisory committees are groups of concerned citizens and members of _______.
government
What is one way that people can become involved in local government?
Applying to sit on advisory committees
What is representative democracy as it relates to local government?
An example of citizens electing representatives to make decisions on their behalf
How were leaders chosen by the Iroquois compared to First Nations local governments today?
Compare the selection methods
This may involve a discussion of consensus versus electoral processes.
What is the role of the Town or City Manager?
To ensure that council decisions are carried out and to keep the council informed about the municipality’s operations.
The Town or City Manager is appointed by the council.
Who reports to the Town or City Manager?
All the departments of the government.
Departments include various local government services.
What are civil servants?
People who are hired to run or work in government departments.
They perform various jobs within local government.
What types of jobs do civil servants perform?
- Answering phones
- Keeping records
- Collecting garbage
- Teaching swimming lessons
- Driving buses
- Repairing streets
These jobs are essential for community service delivery.
Why might a larger community need more people to provide services than a smaller community?
Due to increased demand for services and more complex needs of the population.
Larger communities often have more residents and diverse service requirements.
Why are members of the public invited to sit on advisory committees?
To provide input and feedback on community services and governance.
This encourages public participation and improves decision-making.
What is a ballot?
A piece of paper used for voting that lists the names of the candidates
Ballots are essential in the electoral process, allowing voters to select their preferred candidates.
What does it mean to nominate?
To identify a person as a possible candidate for an elected position
Nomination is a critical step in the election process, enabling individuals to be considered for public office.
How are positions on the Council of 500 in ancient Athens chosen?
By lottery rather than by voting
This method reflects a different approach to representation and governance in comparison to modern electoral systems.
How often do local elections take place?
Every three years
Regular elections ensure that local governments remain accountable to their constituents.
What are the basic qualifications to run for local elections?
Must be a Canadian citizen, at least 18 years old, and reside in the municipal area for at least six months before the election
These qualifications help ensure that candidates have a vested interest in the community they aim to represent.
What is required to get your name on the ballot?
You need to be nominated and complete official papers, including information about yourself and the names of nominators
This process formalizes a candidate’s intention to run for office and ensures transparency.
What role does a campaign committee play?
They help prepare leaflets and signs about the candidate and promote their ideas in the community
Campaign committees are essential for raising awareness and garnering support for candidates.
What happens on election day?
People go to the polling station to vote for the candidate of their choice
Election day is the culmination of the electoral process, allowing citizens to exercise their voting rights.
True or False: The candidate with the most votes wins the election.
True
This principle is fundamental to democratic elections, ensuring that the chosen representative has the support of the majority.
Fill in the blank: To successfully run for office, a candidate must let the community know their _______.
ideas
Communicating ideas is vital for candidates to connect with voters and gain their support.
How do debates among candidates help voters?
They provide a platform for candidates to discuss important issues and express their views
Debates allow voters to compare candidates directly and make informed decisions.
What is a ballot?
A piece of paper used for voting that lists the names of the candidates
Ballots are essential in the electoral process, allowing voters to select their preferred candidates.
What does it mean to nominate?
To identify a person as a possible candidate for an elected position
Nomination is a critical step in the election process, enabling individuals to be considered for public office.
How are positions on the Council of 500 in ancient Athens chosen?
By lottery rather than by voting
This method reflects a different approach to representation and governance in comparison to modern electoral systems.
How often do local elections take place?
Every three years
Regular elections ensure that local governments remain accountable to their constituents.
What are the basic qualifications to run for local elections?
Must be a Canadian citizen, at least 18 years old, and reside in the municipal area for at least six months before the election
These qualifications help ensure that candidates have a vested interest in the community they aim to represent.
What is required to get your name on the ballot?
You need to be nominated and complete official papers, including information about yourself and the names of nominators
This process formalizes a candidate’s intention to run for office and ensures transparency.
What role does a campaign committee play?
They help prepare leaflets and signs about the candidate and promote their ideas in the community
Campaign committees are essential for raising awareness and garnering support for candidates.
What happens on election day?
People go to the polling station to vote for the candidate of their choice
Election day is the culmination of the electoral process, allowing citizens to exercise their voting rights.
True or False: The candidate with the most votes wins the election.
True
This principle is fundamental to democratic elections, ensuring that the chosen representative has the support of the majority.
Fill in the blank: To successfully run for office, a candidate must let the community know their _______.
ideas
Communicating ideas is vital for candidates to connect with voters and gain their support.
How do debates among candidates help voters?
They provide a platform for candidates to discuss important issues and express their views
Debates allow voters to compare candidates directly and make informed decisions.
What is the name of the program in Canmore, Alberta that involves volunteers shoveling snow?
Hi Ho, Hi Ho, I’m Off to Shovel Snow!
What is the main purpose of the program ‘Hi Ho, Hi Ho, I’m Off to Shovel Snow!’?
To help elderly people or those with disabilities by shoveling snow.
What effect can acts of kindness have according to Kirstin Smith?
A ripple effect that can be far reaching.
Why might local governments not meet all the needs of the community?
Due to financial constraints and insufficient tax revenue.
List some actions that concerned individuals can take to help their community.
- Start programs that collect and distribute food or clothing
- Bring meals to elderly people in their homes
- Organize cleanup campaigns
- Raise money for youth or sports programs
What is the role of individuals in a democracy regarding community needs?
To take on the responsibility for making their community a more fair and equitable place.
What is the size of the student population at Brant-Argyle School?
50 students.
What charitable cause did the student council at Brant-Argyle School decide to support each month?
One charitable cause every month for the entire school year.
What event did the students at Brant-Argyle School re-establish to raise money for cancer research?
Terry Fox Run.
What charity did the students support during winter by collecting clothing?
Koats for Kids.
What did the students do for the ‘Random Acts of Kindness’ month?
- Baked cookies
- Sang at seniors’ homes
- Shoveled snow for people
What is the name of the program in Canmore, Alberta that involves volunteers shoveling snow?
Hi Ho, Hi Ho, I’m Off to Shovel Snow!
What is the main purpose of the program ‘Hi Ho, Hi Ho, I’m Off to Shovel Snow!’?
To help elderly people or those with disabilities by shoveling snow.
What effect can acts of kindness have according to Kirstin Smith?
A ripple effect that can be far reaching.
Why might local governments not meet all the needs of the community?
Due to financial constraints and insufficient tax revenue.
List some actions that concerned individuals can take to help their community.
- Start programs that collect and distribute food or clothing
- Bring meals to elderly people in their homes
- Organize cleanup campaigns
- Raise money for youth or sports programs
What is the role of individuals in a democracy regarding community needs?
To take on the responsibility for making their community a more fair and equitable place.
What is the size of the student population at Brant-Argyle School?
50 students.
What charitable cause did the student council at Brant-Argyle School decide to support each month?
One charitable cause every month for the entire school year.
What event did the students at Brant-Argyle School re-establish to raise money for cancer research?
Terry Fox Run.
What charity did the students support during winter by collecting clothing?
Koats for Kids.
What did the students do for the ‘Random Acts of Kindness’ month?
- Baked cookies
- Sang at seniors’ homes
- Shoveled snow for people
What is the role of school boards?
School boards ensure that education is provided for people.
Who makes decisions about educational services and programming in schools?
The school board.
What is a trustee?
A person who serves on a school board.
What are some key responsibilities of school trustees?
- Make rules and policies for schools
- Listen to community input on education
- Decide how the budget is spent
- Make decisions about services and programming
- Make decisions about school buildings and student transportation
- Address complaints and make fair judgments
- Ensure the provincial curriculum is taught
What is the role of a superintendent?
A superintendent is responsible for running the schools in a jurisdiction.
How is the position of superintendent similar to local government?
It is similar to that of the CAO in local government.
What is a budget in the context of school boards?
A budget is a list of items that shows how much money will be spent on each item.
Fill in the blank: A person who serves on a school board is called a _______.
trustee
True or False: School boards are a type of local government.
True
What do school boards listen to regarding education?
What people think is important for their children’s education.
What is the primary job of school boards?
To make sure local public education is of high quality and meets local needs.
School boards rely on community involvement to achieve this goal.
How often are school board trustees elected?
Every three years at the same time as other members of local government.
This election cycle allows for coordinated governance at local levels.
How many school boards are there in Alberta?
About 60 school boards.
Each board operates independently, serving different communities.
How many trustees are approximately there in Alberta?
Approximately 450 trustees.
This number varies by school board.
How many trustees does the Edmonton Public School Board have?
9 trustees.
This board is one of three in the city of Edmonton.
How many trustees does the Edmonton Francophone School Board have?
7 trustees.
This board serves the French-speaking community in Edmonton.
How many trustees does the Edmonton Catholic School Board have?
7 trustees.
This board focuses on providing Catholic education in Edmonton.
What types of public schools can Alberta students choose from?
Students can attend:
* English language schools
* French Immersion schools
* Bilingual programs in languages such as Chinese, Arabic, and Ukrainian.
This diversity allows for a range of educational experiences.
What is University Elementary School?
A public school in Calgary that is open to all students.
It exemplifies the accessibility of public education in Alberta.
True or False: School board trustees are appointed rather than elected.
False.
Trustees are elected to represent the community’s interests.
What action can individuals take to be more involved with their local school board?
Call their local school board to become better informed and involved.
Engagement with school boards is crucial for community representation.
Fill in the blank: There are about _____ school boards in Alberta.
60
What is a possible reason for someone to run for trustee of a school board?
To contribute to local education and community development.
Motivations can vary widely among candidates.
What type of instruction do separate schools provide?
Instruction in the Roman Catholic faith and a variety of language programs
Most separate schools are Catholic, with exceptions in St. Albert and St. Paul.
What is the role of Francophone school boards in Canada?
They run all Francophone schools unless they are private
Canada’s Charter of Rights and Freedoms gives Francophone parents in Alberta the right to have their children educated in French.
What characterizes charter schools in Alberta?
Not governed by the local school board and have the same curriculum as public schools but with a special focus
Focus areas can include science, music, religion, or athletics.
Who runs the Ermineskin Schools on the Ermineskin Cree Reserve?
The Miyo Wahkohtowin Community Education Authority
Students are taught the Cree language along with other subjects.
How does the variety of schools in Alberta demonstrate the principle of fairness?
Decisions in a democracy are made for the majority while respecting the rights of the minority
This variety allows different cultural and educational needs to be met.
What does Alberta’s School Act allow regarding First Nations representation?
Allows a board to appoint a First Nations individual nominated by the First Nations community
This member has all the rights and responsibilities of any board member.
What was the governance of Aboriginal schools in Alberta prior to 2007?
All were run by the federal government
By 2007, all but one school were run by bands.
Which school board runs the Piitoayis Family School Program?
Calgary Board of Education
The program is attended by Aboriginal students and offers Cree and Blackfoot language classes.
Fill in the blank: École Voyageur is a ______ school in Cold Lake.
Francophone
True or False: Charter schools in Alberta have a different curriculum from public schools.
False
What type of instruction do separate schools provide?
Instruction in the Roman Catholic faith and a variety of language programs
Most separate schools are Catholic, with exceptions in St. Albert and St. Paul.
What is the role of Francophone school boards in Canada?
They run all Francophone schools unless they are private
Canada’s Charter of Rights and Freedoms gives Francophone parents in Alberta the right to have their children educated in French.
What characterizes charter schools in Alberta?
Not governed by the local school board and have the same curriculum as public schools but with a special focus
Focus areas can include science, music, religion, or athletics.
Who runs the Ermineskin Schools on the Ermineskin Cree Reserve?
The Miyo Wahkohtowin Community Education Authority
Students are taught the Cree language along with other subjects.
How does the variety of schools in Alberta demonstrate the principle of fairness?
Decisions in a democracy are made for the majority while respecting the rights of the minority
This variety allows different cultural and educational needs to be met.
What does Alberta’s School Act allow regarding First Nations representation?
Allows a board to appoint a First Nations individual nominated by the First Nations community
This member has all the rights and responsibilities of any board member.
What was the governance of Aboriginal schools in Alberta prior to 2007?
All were run by the federal government
By 2007, all but one school were run by bands.
Which school board runs the Piitoayis Family School Program?
Calgary Board of Education
The program is attended by Aboriginal students and offers Cree and Blackfoot language classes.
Fill in the blank: École Voyageur is a ______ school in Cold Lake.
Francophone
True or False: Charter schools in Alberta have a different curriculum from public schools.
False
