The hum of conversation and the rich aroma of freshly-brewed coffee create a welcoming atmosphere inside Airdrie’s Good Earth Coffeehouse.
Seated across from me is Noshy Karbani, Airdrie’s project lead for Census and Elections. Our discussion is animated and full of passion. We’re diving into a topic close to Karbani’s heart: the power of civic engagement and the role residents play in shaping Airdrie’s future through advocacy and voting.
THE CITY’S ROLE AS AN ADVOCATE
Airdrie is not just a city on the rise; it’s a city that demands to be heard. As one of Canada’s fastest-growing municipalities, Airdrie’s needs for infrastructure, health care, education and economic development are expanding rapidly. The municipal government serves as the critical link between residents and the province, ensuring these concerns are addressed at the highest levels.
“Our council has a dedicated intergovernmental team that ensures Airdrie’s needs are clearly communicated at the provincial level,” Karbani explains. “We don’t just sit back and wait for funding; we advocate for it, making sure our voice is heard.”
One of the most powerful tools in Airdrie’s advocacy arsenal is Airdrie Day at the Legislature, where City officials meet with provincial ministers and MLAs.
“That face-to-face time is invaluable,” Karbani says. “It allows us to make a strong case for priorities like new schools and health care expansion. And we’ve seen results. Airdrie is getting three new schools because of our persistent advocacy.”
WHY YOUR VOTE IS THE KEY TO CHANGE
While municipal leaders do their part, Karbani is quick to highlight that real change starts with Airdrie’s residents.
“People often underestimate how much their vote matters at the municipal level,” she says. “When more residents vote, it sends a strong message to the province that Airdrie is engaged, active and serious about its needs.”
Municipal elections have a direct impact on Airdrie’s ability to advocate for critical funding and policy changes.
“Your local representatives are the ones making the case for Airdrie at the provincial level,” Karbani points out. “If you don’t vote, you’re giving up your say in who represents you and your city.”
Yet, municipal voter turnout often lags behind provincial and federal elections. In Airdrie’s 2021 election, only 12,074 residents cast their ballots out of 54,373 eligible voters. It is a turnout rate that Karbani and her team are determined to improve.
MAKING VOTING EASIER THAN EVER
To remove barriers and encourage higher voter turnout, the City of Airdrie is rolling out several new voting initiatives.
“We’re introducing multiple advance polling locations, extended evening hours and two weeks of voting at City Hall leading up to election day,” Karbani explains. “We want to make it as easy and convenient as possible.”
Additionally, the province’s Bill 20 is bringing significant changes to municipal elections. Airdrie residents must now register in advance to vote.
“This is a big shift,” Karbani says. “Previously, there was no municipal voters list. Now residents must ensure they’re registered before heading to the polls. We’re urging everyone to check their status early on the Elections Alberta website.”
EVERY VOTE COUNTS
For those who believe their vote doesn’t matter, Karbani has a clear message: it absolutely does.
“In our last election, the difference between a candidate winning or losing was a handful of votes,” she says. “Your ballot could be the one that decides who represents your city and how effectively they advocate for Airdrie’s needs.”
Karbani emphasizes that voting isn’t just about electing a candidate, it’s about shaping the community.
“If you care about better health care, more schools, improved roads or economic growth, voting is your opportunity to make your voice heard,” Karbani says.
AIRDRIE’S FUTURE IS IN YOUR HANDS
Airdrie’s rapid expansion presents both opportunities and challenges, making strong leadership and active civic participation more important than ever.
“We’re at a pivotal moment,” Karbani says. “The decisions we make today will impact Airdrie for decades to come.”
So, what can Airdrie residents do? Step one: register to vote and show up on election day.
Beyond that, Karbani encourages everyone to get involved, attend council meetings, participate in town halls and engage with candidates.
“Voting is both a right and a privilege,” Karbani says. “If you love Airdrie and want to see it thrive, take the time to make your voice heard. A better future starts with you.”
Residents can learn more about Airdrie’s upcoming municipal election, set for Oct. 20, 2025, by visiting and registering to vote at www.airdrie.ca/castyourvote.
Airdrie’s future isn’t just shaped by those in office, it’s shaped by every resident who takes the time to vote. It all starts at the ballot box.
