COVID-19 response strains relationships in northern Alberta county

The mayor of High Level, a town in Alberta’s far northwest corner, says she has not spoken to the county government for several weeks.

“We’re not at each other’s throats, but it’s a very estranged relationship,” say Crystal McAteer.

“There is a fracture between us. We already had problems, but it’s come to the forefront in the last two years.”

Public health measures to try to curb the spread of COVID-19 have sown a stark divide in Mackenzie County, the least vaccinated region in Alberta.

Residents and local leaders say friendships have ended, arguments have erupted in shops, and government projects