CALGARY — The Alberta government has ordered a sweeping third-party investigation into Calgary’s ongoing water main problems, which have again forced residents to ration their use.

Municipal Affairs Minister Dan Williams says the probe will be headed by David Goldie, a former chair of Alberta’s energy regulator.

Goldie will have the power to compel documents and witnesses, similar to a public judicial inquiry, and is expected to report back on his findings by the fall.

Williams says the United Conservative Party government needs a full accounting of the crisis in order to prevent it from happening again.

The investigation has political ramifications, as the probe is expected to examine the actions and decisions of past Calgary city councils, including former Mayor Naheed Nenshi.

Nenshi is now leader of the Opposition NDP and the main opponent of Premier Danielle Smith’s government, with an election set for the fall of next year.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 13, 2026.

Dayne Patterson, The Canadian Press