One of Wood Buffalo’s councillors will be sitting on the board for the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.

Krista Balsom was elected as one of two urban representatives in Alberta on Sunday in Quebec City. Edmonton and Calgary already had appointed representatives.

The FCM is an organization that advocates for municipalities across the country, advancing issues to the federal government.

Balsom tells Mix News she thought it was important to have a voice from our region and specifically the heart of the oilsands be a part of the board.

“Everything going on right now with the energy crisis we have as a nation I think it was important to have somebody from our region’s perspective added to that table and to that conversation nationally.”

Balsom beat out three other candidates to earn her spot. She believes this shows Albertans understand how important it is that the region has a voice, especially when it talking about energy.

“To win votes from across the province felt good, I think, for the region to get us on the map.”

During her time with the board, Balsom notes she plans to advocate on many issues across Wood Buffalo. They include concerns around energy, lack of high speed internet in the rural areas, and more.

“We really just wanted to make our region’s voice heard and really give ourselves the best opportunity to push for things that matter to the residents.”