Access to Information Act (ATIA) and Protection of Privacy Act (POPA)
On June 11, 2025, the Access to Information Act (ATIA) and its accompanying regulations were officially proclaimed, marking a significant update to Alberta’s information and privacy legislation. With its proclamation, the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FOIP) has been formally repealed. In its place, the new Protection of Privacy Act (POPA) modernizes ad strengthens the privacy provisions that were previously established under FOIP.
These Acts give individuals the right to access records held by the Town of Vauxhall, while balancing the need to protect privacy and sensitive information.
Your Rights Under POPA
- Request correction of any inaccuracies in your personal information held by the municipality by filling out the Correction of Personal Information Form (PDF)
- If unresolved, escalate complaints to the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Alberta
POPA permits the use of your personal information by a public body. For example, in a municipality, property owners’ names and mailing addresses are collected to operate the municipality, including compiling the tax assessment roll. This information may be used for other purposes related to the operation of a municipality, such as providing services and utilities. Under POPA, public bodies can create non-personal data for research, analysis, or the planning, delivery, or evaluation of a program or service. Common uses include analysis to identify trends (e.g., how many people from different demographics are using a service) or to improve the services provided.
What is the Access to Information Act?
The Access to Information Act (ATIA) also came into effect on June 11, 2025, replacing the access provisions of the FOIP Act. It grants you the legal right to request records in the custody or control of any Alberta public body, subject to limited and specific exemptions. This Act is in addition to and does not replace existing procedures for access to information or records.
Residents are encouraged to check with the Town of Vauxhall before submitting an ATI request to see if the information is already publicly available. Many types of information can be accessed without an ATI request, such as publications, brochures, forms, and reports, information about programs and services offered by the municipality, and records that are made available through other legislation or programs (e.g., certificates, licenses, etc.).
No Endorsement
The Town of Vauxhall does not endorse any products or services that may be referred to, or linked to on this website.
Disclaimer
While efforts are made to provide accuracy and currency, this website may include inaccuracies or typographical errors and the information is provided without warranty or condition of any kind. To report any inaccuracies or errors, please email info@town.vauxhall.ab.ca