Frequently asked questions.

What I’m hearing from you

As I chat with local residents, I’m hearing the same concerns come up again and again. I understand that you may have questions as you consider who to vote for in the October 20, 2025 municipal election. Below, you'll find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about my platform, priorities, and how I plan to serve our community.

If you don’t see the questions or answer you’re looking for, feel free to contact me directly!

What is your background and why is it relevant for running for office?

I have more than 15 years of experience working in policy, including private sector, public sector and as a civil servant for the provincial government. I also hold a Master degree and have published a number of research papers focusing on ways to advance accessibility policy for people with disabilities. I currently work as the Policy Advisor at Mount Royal University and sit on the Board of Directors for the Association of College and University Policy Administrators. My professional and educational background has given me a solid foundation in good governance, sound decision-making, and an understanding of how policy impacts people’s daily lives.

What is your stance on urban development in our rural area, and how do you plan to manage growth while preserving our community's rural character?

Having been personally affected by recently approved development that had very little input from the existing residents, we need better and more open dialogue with residents that will be impacted by these plans and take their concerns seriously. People feel they have either been kept in the dark, or had any legitimate concerns brushed aside. While development is inevitable, it’s essential that we balance growth with the preservation of our agricultural lands, natural resources, and the close-knit country residential feel of our communities. I have heard it loud and clear that residents are concerned about the impact new development will have on road safety, classroom sizes, emergency services, and sky-rocketing utility rates.

I intend to take a measured approach to development, however it cannot come at a cost to those already living here. It must also be done fairly, transparently and with better communication. People are fed up of nasty surprises when it is too late to have their voices heard. Decisions must be made with honesty and consideration for putting the people of our great County first.

Why does it take so long to get approval to build a shed, auxiliary building, deck or other such item on our properties?

While developers are getting approval for new subdivisions, current residents are tied up in red tape when they seek approval to make small modifications to their own properties. We need to review processes and ensure that applications are reviewed in a timely and fair manner. It is time for the needs of current residents to be prioritised by our county. Our residents are what make where we live so great, and we need to stop putting so many hurdles in front of them. Currently, there seems to be more focus from the County on celebrating a big multi-million dollar corporation getting its way, whilst residents are put on the back burner and told to wait for something as simple as a permit for a new shed.

What are your plans for improving infrastructure, like roads and intersections?

One of the top concerns I hear about is road safety. There are too many accident hot-stops where nothing is being done to improve safety. One of my key priorities will be to keep our roads safe and maintained. As traffic volumes inevitably increase from previously approved development, we need plans in place to ensure the safety of everyone on the road. Every day, I’ll work with Administration, and our provincial and federal agencies to ensure that the planned improvements to the major intersections in Division 3 proceed on schedule. I will fight to bring more resources to rural communities and make sure we don’t get overlooked. We need to stop focusing on adding more housing before we have added safer road infrastructure that is so desperately needed. 

How will you improve communication between the County and residents?

It is important to me that residents know about the issues and plans that may impact them in enough time to be able to fairly participate in public processes. I plan to send out regular updates via my newsletter on current and upcoming issues that may be of importance to Division 3 residents. You can sign up to my newsletter below. I’ll also hold regular open houses, where I will actually listen to your concerns and take the feedback away with me.

Still have questions?

If you didn’t find the answer to your question, please feel free to reach out via my email or cell phone. I’m here to listen to your concerns, and I’m committed to addressing the needs of our amazing community. Together, we can build a stronger future for everyone.

Vote Alison Whiting on October 20, 2025

Polling station locations for Division 3:

Weedon Pioneer Community Hall; Bearspaw Lifestyle Centre; Frank Wills Community Hall