Getting Help in Ward 7
Navigating the City’s service request system and when it’s time to contact your councillor.
Calgary is growing quickly and is getting close to 2 million people. Every day, Calgarians use services run by the City or the province. It can be hard to know who to contact, when to contact them, and how long it may take to see a change. This guide explains three common questions we receive at the Ward 7 Office. It also shares what information you can prepare before you contact us, so we can help move your request forward as quickly as possible.
First, it helps to understand what a ward office does. Ward offices help City Councillors understand what is happening in the communities they represent. Most emails we receive are about one of two things: service requests or policy requests.
Service Requests:
Service requests are for issues like road repairs, parking permit issues, or streetlight outages. If you contact our office about a service request, we will first ask if you have contacted 311. Service and repair requests should go through 311 for a few important reasons:
311 is the first step for many City requests. When you submit a request through 311, it is officially recorded and sent to the right City team or crew.
311 helps the City track needs and plan resources. Requests made through 311 are added to the City’s system. This helps the City see patterns, plan repairs, and decide where staff, time, and budget are needed.
311 gives you a tracking number. Each 311 request gets a Service Request, or SR, number. You can use this number to check the status of your request or follow up if needed.
You can contact 311 in three ways: call 311, use the 311 Calgary mobile app, or visit calgary.ca/311. If you already contacted 311 and have not heard back within the expected service time, please send our office your SR number and the date you made the request. We can then follow up with Administration. Service times depend on the issue and how urgent it is. Once we receive your SR number, it can take at least three (3) business days to hear back from Administration.
Policy Change Requests:
The other emails we often receive are about City policies, bylaws, or decisions coming to Council. You may want to share your perspective on an upcoming vote, ask for a change to a bylaw, or suggest that a City process could work better. In these cases, we may reply with information about the Councillor’s past votes on the issue and any helpful context we have. We may also suggest groups or organizations you can contact, or explain other factors related to your request. Sometimes, we may encourage you to send your message to another body, such as the Calgary Police Commission or another level of government. We will not forward emails on your behalf.
Policy changes need support from at least 8 members of Council to pass. The Ward 7 Office may already be working on the issue you raise. In some cases, there may not yet be enough support on Council to bring forward a Notice of Motion or a bylaw amendment.
Which levels of government are responsible for which areas of responsibility?
Here is a useful flow chart for you when sending an inquiry to us. Note that if you contact 311 for service requests first, it cuts down on some of the resolution time.
Flowchart for understanding how we resolve constituent inquiries from the Ward 7 Office
Finally, here are three examples of service requests we receive and the typical response we send back:
Example 1: “My street now has new parking restrictions. I don’t know why these changed and I want them changed back to what they were before.”
Thank you for contacting the Ward 7 Office about this. Here's what happened:
Previous council approved changes to residential parking during the 2023–2026 City Budget. Council voted to move the RPP program toward full cost recovery. This meant introducing fees for residential permits, primarily affecting inner‑city neighbourhoods first.
Key dates:
June 2023 – Changes announced; significant public backlash [calgary.citynews.ca]
August 1, 2023 – Originally planned start date (later delayed) [cbc.ca]
December 4, 2023 – Paid residential permit fees officially came into effect
Your best chance at getting a change initiated in this area is through the Calgary Parking Authority. City Councillors do not have the authority to alter parking restrictions in their ward. You could potentially change the parking regulations by inputting a request for a study. If the study shows that the restrictions are not required, they may change in the area.
Select: Submit An Online Service Request at the bottom of this page.
For ‘nature of your concern’, select ‘residential parking’
For ‘specify your residential parking inquiry’, select ‘add/modify parking sign’
Feel free to keep us in the loop of any contact by cc'ing me or forwarding emails to me after with an inquiry #.
Example 2: “There is a development on my street and the construction is causing issues with parking and debris being blown by the wind.”
Thank you for contacting the Ward 7 Office about this. Your best avenue to find a resolution for this would be to contact 311. This is important because any action taken from bylaw, would best be communicated through 311. You can call/go online/send pictures through the 311 app. This will also be tracked for Planning or other City departments. I can also follow up on Service Request numbers once they are initiated with 311. Please send me the SR number when it has been returned to you and I will follow up if it has not been resolved within the Service Level Agreement time frame.
Example 3: “There is a broken piece of concrete barrier at this location __________. When will the City come to fix it?”
Thank you for contacting the Ward 7 Office about this. To get this issue resolved as quickly as possible, please contact 311. You can call/go online/send pictures through the 311 app.
Once this is initiated with 311, please send me the SR (Service Request) number when it has been returned to you. I will follow up if it has not been resolved within the Service Level Agreement time frame. Thank you for bringing this issue to our awareness.
We hope this guide has helped you in understanding how our office functions and what role we have at the City of Calgary interfacing with city services. Our ‘improved access to information from municipal administration’ changed in 2025. To learn more about our provincial legislation read modernising municipal processes on the Alberta website.
Neighbour Day & Indigenous Peoples Day Events
From East Village to Montgomery, Neighbour Day events are happening across Ward 7 and the City this Saturday. Councillor Atkinson is finalizing his route to get to as many as possible. If you see him running around, give him a high five! ✋ Following the festivities of Neighbour Day, Indigenous People’s Day is June 21st. Read on for all the events happening in Ward 7 this weekend. It’s bound to be a great weekend of family friendly activities and getting to know our neighbours!
Capitol Hill School’s Out Party (Neighbour Day Eve!)
On June 19th at 6pm, kick off Neighbour Day weekend with the Spectacular School’s Out party at CHCA. Fun for all ages at this free event. Capitol Hill Community Association will host a rockin’ good time with a petting zoo, bouncy castle mania, beer garden, food trucks, interactive KidStrong demonstrations, live music by Big Yellow Van, half-time circus show, kids’ activities and much, much more!
Rosedale’s 3rd Annual Neighbour Day
Come and meet your fellow neighbours at Rosedale’s 3rd Neighbour Day celebration. Bring your lawn chairs and join for a fun afternoon of free food, family friendly games and live entertainment. More information can be found in your local Rosedale Reporter paper or visit Rosedale Community Association’s website to register.
Neighbour Day – Rosedale Community Association
Montgomery Neighbour Day
Montgomery Community Association’s Neighbour Day celebration is happening rain or shine with events inside and outside the hall. There will be family activities, Kidz Play Zone, Colouring Mural, All-day DJ, Free food for the first 200 people and door prizes. Plus, The Reptile Guy! Bring your lawn chairs, family, and friends.
Neighbour Day - Montgomery Community Association
Tuxedo Park Art, Gardening, and Neighbour Day Event
Tuxedo Park community has been chosen as the first Community Association in Calgary to pilot a new City arts program. It will launch on Neighbour Day with a FREE outdoor art station where kids can sculpt their own clay bugs. Take yours home, donate it to the sensory garden, or both — it’s entirely up to you! While you’re there, pick up info on upcoming community art classes and share what you’d like to see by filling out a short questionnaire.
Tuxedo Park Art, Gardening and Neighbour Day
West Hillhurst Kick Off to Summer 2026
On Saturday June 20 from 12pm - 3pm, West Hillhurst Community Association is Kicking Off to Summer! Come celebrate the beginning of summertime and the end of an amazing year of programming at WHCA. This is a free community event - no tickets or reservations required! Simply show up to the WHCA field and join the fun! Activities include face painting, mobile and bike obstacle courses, bouncy castles, field games and local food trucks.
Kick Off to Summer 2026 — West Hillhurst Community Association | Calgary
Hillhurst Sunnyside Neighbour Day Events
The Hillhurst Brightening Committee was a unique community association endeavour born out of the recovery effort from the 2013 flood, just as Neigbour Day emerged for the same reason. So it’s no surprise that the Hillhurst Sunnyside community are hosting a whole suite of events this Neighbour Day including a parade (1-3pm) Art Festval (10-3:30), Community Concert (4pm), and Street Sale (9-2). Check out this day of events on their website. Neighbour Day — HSCA
Fold, Create, Connect: A Cherry Blossom Celebration at Sien Lok Park
Join members of the Sien Lok Society as they celebrate the cherry blossom planting at Sien Lok Park. Make your own origami cherry blossom. Learn the art of origami cherry blossoms, connect with your neighbours, and enjoy a fun, hands-on activity for all ages! No experience is needed, and all supplies will be provided!
Neighbour Day 2026 - Calgary Chinatown Events
26th Annual Walk for Wing Kei
Walk for Wing Kei is a Calgary charity walk and fundraising event held every June. Join us on June 20, 2026 for a community walkathon event supporting seniors’ care in Calgary. Spend a day of walking, performances, and family fun at the Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre while raising funds to support senior care.
Calgary Walkathon Route Map 2026 | Walk for Wing Kei
Made by Momma’s Neighbour Day Event
Made by Momma Made by Momma is a grassroots non-profit organization and registered Canadian charity located in Calgary. Join Made by Momma & The Happy Birthday Project on Saturday, June 20, as they celebrate Neighbour Day with an afternoon of free family fun, community connection, and neighbourhood spirit. Bring your family, meet your neighbours, and enjoy a variety of activities designed to bring the community together. There will be games, family-friendly activities, great food, and plenty of opportunities to connect with others in the neighbourhood.
Neighbour Day 2026 - Made by Momma
Parkdale Neighbour Day
Join your neighbours for a Neighbour Day get-together at Nove Nine, presented by the Parkdale Community Association. Drop in any time between 3 and 8 PM on Saturday, June 20 to eat, chat, and meet the people who live nearby. Your ticket includes a full spread of finger food where East meets West, plus one drink ticket, alcoholic or non-alcoholic. Gluten-free and vegan options. Families welcome, and kids get the same food plus a non-alcoholic drink. Tickets are $30, or $15 for kids under 12. Only 60 seats, indoors.
Parkdale Neighbour Day | Parkdale Community
Calgary Climate Hub Bike Bus
Can’t decide where to go? How about hopping on the Bike Bus that Calgary Climate Hub is rolling through Calgary? This isn't a race and it's not a lycra-required cycling event. The Neighbour Day Bike Bus is designed to be welcoming, social, and accessible for everyday riders. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist, someone who mostly sticks to pathways or haven't been on a bike in a looooong time, this ride is all about having fun, meeting people, and experiencing Calgary from a different perspective. On Neighbour Day, they'll be hopping on bikes and visiting a variety of community celebrations taking place in and around Calgary's downtown. Think of it as a rolling neighbourhood party: part bike ride, part community tour, and part urban adventure.
Neighbour Day Bike Bus - Calgary Climate Hub
Indigenous People’s Day Events
Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary
AFCC is hosting the Walk for Reconciliation (June 21st, 9:00 AM). Join them as they walk from the Harry Hays Building to The Confluence. A meal will be provided for the first 500 participants.
The Gathering at Moh’kinsstis
This Gathering is an opportunity to bring to life a long-held vision: a visible, purpose-built, Indigenous-led Gathering Place in Calgary. For one day, we are creating space for Indigenous Peoples and communities to gather in a way that reflects the strength, diversity, cultures, and presence of Indigenous Peoples across Treaty 7 and beyond. Guided by Elders and Knowledge Keepers, the day will centre ceremony, cultural teachings, artistic expression, music, storytelling, and meaningful connection. The Gathering is open to all community members and welcomes both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to come together in a spirit of respect, learning, celebration, and relationship. Many artists (visual, music, and storytelling) will be joining their cultural showcase so be sure to check the link for more event information.
OHSOTO’KINO
On June 21, National Music Centre will host a free live event, hosted by David McLeod, curator of the Speak Up! exhibit, featuring performances by Tudjaat, whose work throughout mid-1990s was instrumental in reconnecting many young Inuit to their culture; Black Crow Funk, the country, folk, and blues project of Métis singer-songwriter Jody Funk; and techno/electronic artist sean beaver, who incorporates pow wow elements, percussion, and vocal chants into his high-energy hybrid sets of live loops and originally produced music. Visitors can also explore an Indigenous vendor market, and five floors of exhibitions, including Speak Up! at no cost - admission to Studio Bell is free for everyone on June 21.
OHSOTO’KINO: Indigenous Peoples Day at Studio Bell | Studio Bell
Ward 7 Community Ideation Sessions
We’re excited to announce our Community Ideation Sessions running from May to June 2026. Community Ideation Sessions are interactive, in‑person gatherings where residents can share what matters most to them in their neighbourhoods. Participants will be invited to contribute through topic bulletin boards, neighbourhood maps, dot‑voting charts, and sticky-notes galore, creating a democratic and accessible way for everyone to be heard.
On behalf of Councillor Atkinson, the Ward 7 Team is excited to work with you over the next few years to do the best work we can for our 22 unique communities in the heart of Calgary.
Right now, we're excited to share plans about our community ideation sessions starting in early May. We are hosting community ideation sessions at eight Ward 7 Community Associations to help gather community input on ways you want to see your communities shaped over the next four years. We are going to gather feedback with topic bulletin boards, area maps, and dot charts to understand the desires of community members in key regions of the Ward.
What Is It?
The Community Ideation Sessions are interactive, in‑person gatherings where residents can share what matters most to them in their neighbourhoods. Participants will be invited to contribute through topic bulletin boards, neighbourhood maps, dot‑voting charts, and sticky-notes galore, creating a democratic and accessible way for everyone to be heard.
The sessions will be held across eight regions of Ward 7, ensuring voices from diverse communities are reflected in future planning and decision‑making.
Who Is It For?
These sessions are open to all Ward 7 residents, including:
Long‑time community members and newcomers
Youth, families, seniors, and local business owners
Anyone who lives, works, or volunteers in Ward 7
No prior experience or preparation is needed—just a willingness to share your perspective.
Why Should Residents Attend?
Community input plays a vital role in shaping advocacy, priorities, and investments at City Hall. By attending a Community Ideation Session, residents have a direct opportunity to:
Connect with neighbours and strengthen community relationships
Share ideas about what they want to see more of (or less of) in their community
Identify local challenges and opportunities
Influence priorities that will help guide Ward 7’s work over the next four years
Residents are encouraged to drop in, participate, and add their voice to the conversation. Every dot placed, note written, and map marked helps shape a more inclusive and responsive future for Ward 7. The feedback gathered will help ensure Ward 7’s future reflects the real experiences, needs, and aspirations of the people who live there.
We are finalizing details on a few of these sessions, but if you express your interest through an RSVP or via email to us we will update you as soon as we know more details. Please follow the event links for more information and to express your interest.
We’re looking forward to seeing you at these sessions! On behalf of the whole Ward 7 Team, we thank you for your attention to what’s going on in your community.
2nd / 7th ave cycle track is now open in sunnyside
We are excited to share that the 2nd Ave cycle track in Sunnyside is open!
We are excited to share that the 2nd Ave cycle track in Sunnyside is open!
We got over a dozen emails when the 2nd Ave / 7th Ave cycle track looked nearly completed but pathway barriers remained. What we heard was a majority of people were excited and supportive of the dedicated bike lanes, but despite being essentially complete, they remained blocked by barriers.
This was due to a delay in the sign making process. Permanent road markings also did not get painted before winter hit.
From The City's perspective, they wanted to guarantee safety, so the barriers remained as they were concerned the laneway uses were unclear.
Our goal was clear: Open the wheeling lane.
People wanted the bike lanes open, and The City wanted to ensure that they would be safe and properly marked when they opened. We started with a walkthrough visit, led by the project manager. We were joined by some of the Hillhurst Sunnyside Mobility Committee as well.
By connecting at the walkthrough in-person, we were able to hear each other's perspectives in a constructive way. We appreciate The City's Mobility Unit for their work and for walking us through the project. They explained the setbacks while meeting highly engaged community members through HSCA's mobility committee. They were able to speed up the process for us - and keep it safe - by installing some temporary signage and road markings.
Wheeling lane on January 7, 2026
Wheeling lane on January 29th, 2026
We hope that this demonstrates that the Ward 7 office is here for your questions and concerns! You can make a difference when you engage in local issues by emailing us about how you experience your own community. We get a lot of emails, but we reply to every single one.
Make your Ward 7 office work for you!
Email us at ward7@calgary.ca or join our newsletter to see what we do next!