Disaggregating Sustainable Transitions Through Power and Governance Arrangements in Municipal Enterprises: A Case Study of the Canmore Community Housing Corporation

Abstract

Housing is a key part of the sustainability discourse of any community. It can affect the recruitment and retention of workers and their families that, in turn, support the resilience of rural communities, businesses, and economies. The purpose of this paper is to examine the scalar dimensions of transition management to support socio-economic development and sustainable housing markets in small municipalities. Drawing from the case study of Canmore, Alberta, Canada, this chapter explores the power and governance dynamics that have unfolded through the municipality’s attempts to bring sustainability to its rapidly growing housing market, community, and economy. This endeavour is unfolding within complex and unclear statutory environments guiding the governance of municipal enterprises within the Province of Alberta. The research deepens our understanding of the governance processes guiding municipal enterprises, broadens our awareness of new approaches to sustainable rental and home ownership markets, and shares the use of community housing enterprises to support sustainable transitions with other municipalities in Canada and internationally.