June 4, 2024 - The first signature is signed
In Canada we are privileged to have the freedom to influence public policy. This must be done in a civil and respectable manner and within the legal framework set forth in the Alberta Municipal Government Act. The Alberta MGA provides citizens with the ability to petition their municipality to, among other things, create a new bylaw. Only electors of a municipality are eligible to sign the petition, and a minimum of 10% of the population is required for it to be valid.
The Supreme Court of Canada has consistently emphasized through various rulings, the necessity of state neutrality. Therefore, governments, from federal to municipal, must remain impartial and respectful of all beliefs.
To this end, we are going door to door around Barrhead collecting signatures for the proposed bylaw. The Neutrality Bylaw is not an attack on any one group or person but is about restoring neutrality and equality to our public places, neither demeaning nor promoting any one group.
June 4, 2024 - The first signature is signed
July 26, 2024 - The petition was received by the Town of Barrhead. It contained over 850 signatures, nearly double the required amount!
December 2, 2024 - Barrhead voted 653 to 492 in favor of the Neutrality Bylaw!