Alberta Municipalities Urge Reversal of Vote Tabulator Ban

Local leaders argue that hand-counting ballots is more costly and time-consuming, while the provincial government cites security concerns.

Premier Danielle Smith announced that Alberta will revert to hand-counting ballots, citing a lack of confidence in electronic tabulators.
A resolution from the City of St. Albert calling for the government to allow vote tabulators again passed with 85.8% support at the Alberta Municipalities convention.
Edmonton and Calgary estimate the switch to hand-counting will cost $2.6 million and $1.3 million respectively, expenses likely to be borne by property owners.
Municipal leaders argue that electronic tabulators are more reliable, accurate, and faster, and that the province should cover the additional costs if hand-counting is mandated.
The ban on tabulators is part of a broader bill that also allows political parties to run in municipal elections and gives the provincial cabinet power to repeal local bylaws.