On June 11, 2025, Alberta’s Access to Information Act (ATIA) and Protection of Privacy Act (POPA), along with their accompanying regulations, were officially proclaimed, marking a major update to provincial information and privacy legislation. As a result, the former Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FOIP) was repealed. The new ATIA strengthens public access to government records, while POPA modernizes and enhances protections for personal and sensitive information.
The Town of Nanton administers access to information and privacy matters in accordance with:
- Access to Information Act (ATIA)
- Protection of Privacy Act (POPA)
- Town of Nanton Bylaw 1423 – Access to Information and Protection of Privacy
- Routine Release of Information Policy 11-22-26/01/19
These laws and policies ensure the Town balances transparency, accountability, and public access with the need to protect personal and sensitive information.
Your Right to Access Town Records
Under the Access to Information Act (ATIA), individuals have the right to request access to records held by the Town of Nanton, subject to specific and limited exceptions.
ATIA provides:
- A general right of access to records in the custody or control of a public body
- A right for individuals to access their own personal information
- Independent review and complaint resolution processes regarding access decisions
To request records, individuals must submit a Request to Access Information Form to the Town Office or email communications@nanton.ca.
Protection of Personal Information (POPA)
The Protection of Privacy Act (POPA) governs how the Town of Nanton collects, uses, discloses, and safeguards personal information.
POPA ensures:
- Personal information is collected, used, and disclosed only for authorized purposes
- Individuals may request corrections to their personal information
- Public bodies protect personal information from unauthorized access or misuse
- Responsible data matching and the appropriate use of non-personal and derived data
- Independent review of privacy complaints and decisions
The Town of Nanton is committed to maintaining strong privacy safeguards while supporting responsible and transparent public administration.
Routine Release of Information
The Town’s Routine Release of Information Policy 11-22-26/01/19 outlines categories of records that may be released proactively, without requiring a formal access request. This approach supports open government, reduces administrative burden, and ensures residents have timely access to commonly requested information.
Making an Access to Information Request
To request access to Town records:
- Complete a Request to Access Information Form
- Submit it in person at the Town Office or by email to communications@nanton.ca
Requests are processed in accordance with legislated timelines, applicable exemptions, and Town policies.
Commitment to Transparency and Privacy
The Town of Nanton is committed to open, accountable government while ensuring personal information is protected in compliance with provincial legislation and municipal bylaws. Through Bylaw 1423, ATIA, POPA, and the Routine Release of Information Policy, the Town strives to maintain public trust, protect individual privacy, and provide fair and timely access to information.