Strong Turnout and Spirited Discussion at Vermilion-Lloydminster-Wainwright NDP AGM

Marie Renaud NDP MLA

The Vermilion-Lloydminster-Wainwright NDP Constituency Association hosted its Annual General Meeting (AGM) this Saturday, September 27, drawing a larger-than-expected crowd for an evening of reflection, planning, and political dialogue.

Held to review the past year’s activities and elect new executive members, the AGM also featured guest speaker Marie Renaud, MLA for St. Albert and Shadow Minister for Community and Social Services. Renaud’s passionate address touched on a number of key issues affecting Albertans, particularly those relating to AISH (Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped), healthcare, education, and rural concerns.

Renaud, who served for years as the executive director of a nonprofit supporting adults with developmental disabilities, brought both her legislative experience and grassroots knowledge to the table. In her remarks, she emphasized the importance of streamlining access to AISH, a concern increasingly voiced by residents. She also drew attention to broader systemic issues in healthcare and education, noting how rural communities like those in the Vermilion-Lloydminster-Wainwright region face unique and growing challenges.

“We are all neighbours in Alberta,” Renaud said. “The voices of rural Albertans are essential in shaping a province that works for everyone.”

The meeting also provided an opportunity to elect the new local executive. Linda Jacejko remains in the role of President, while the Vice-President position—vacated by Dawn Flaata—was open to nominations from the floor, but remains vacant. Phyllis Elmer continues as Treasurer, and Raynette Schroeder remains Secretary. The association also welcomed nominations for a Youth Member (aged 14-30), reinforcing its commitment to engaging the next generation of leaders.

Members at Large, who participate in executive meetings and support constituency work, were also confirmed. There are currently ten such members, and several have expressed interest in continuing for another term.

A key focus of the AGM was reinforcing the connection between local concerns and provincial policy. As a conduit between Vermilion-Lloydminster-Wainwright and the broader Alberta NDP, the local constituency plays an active role at party conventions and Provincial Council meetings. There, members help shape policy, suggest amendments to the party constitution, and vote on resolutions that reflect the lived realities of Albertans.

Many local concerns took centre stage during the open floor discussion—including the shortage of educational support staff in classrooms, delays in accessing healthcare, and the ongoing issue of abandoned oil and gas wells in the region.

Attendees were treated to a free turkey and ham dinner provided by the Constituency Association, with potluck contributions welcomed and enthusiastically shared. The event fostered a spirit of community engagement, with both longtime party members and first-time attendees present. Linda Jacejko, President VLVW NDP CA, shared, “We appreciate getting to know participants and are planning informal coffee meetings around the constituency to share experiences and ideas.”

While voting was limited to current NDP members, the event welcomed all community members, emphasizing inclusion over partisanship. Those interested in getting more involved with the Alberta NDP locally were encouraged to sign up at the meeting or contact the association directly at andp.vlw.ca@gmail.com.