Addressing Liability Limits for Professional Engineers

Resolution Category Provincial Scope 21
Subject Governance
Year 2011
Status Adopted - Expired
Sponsor - Mover
Nanton, Town of
Active Clauses

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association requests that the Government of Alberta and Government of Canada ensure that provincially or federally funded infrastructure programs are with professional engineers who do not limit their liability in a restrictive fashion.

Whereas Clauses

WHEREAS municipalities are required to utilize engineering services in the design of municipal infrastructure;

WHEREAS there are limited financial resources available to invest in municipal infrastructure;

WHEREAS all levels of government have a shared responsibility in effective use of public money;

WHEREAS the Government of Alberta and Government of Canada provide substantial infrastructure funding through grant programs; and

WHEREAS there exists in Alberta agreements between municipalities and engineers or engineering firms that significantly limit the damages and liability of engineers.

Government Response

Nov 23, 2011 - Municipal Affairs

Municipal work for projects funded by the Municipal Sustainability Initiative (MSI) must be carried out in accordance with the applicable governing rules, regulations and laws and in accordance with best general practices.

Funding provided under the Alberta Transportation infrastructure funding programs carries similar requirements.

Jun 14, 2012 - Municipal Affairss

Under the Municipal Government Act, municipalities possess natural person powers that enable them to enter into contracts. Therefore, each municipality has been empowered to enter into contracts related to the business they conduct. In exercising their ability to enter into contracts, municipalities should work with their legal advisors to ensure that the provisions of the contract adequately protect the municipalities in the event of contingencies.

Alberta Municipalities notes

AUMA accepts this response.