Election Survey 2025 - Council Candidates

Ward 1 (Nakota Isga)

1 To Be Elected

Reed Clarke: No response.

Nicky Gocuan: No response.

Rajah Maggay: No response.

Joseph Mugodo: My professional life has been dedicated to successful management and strategic growth, skills that are directly applicable to governing a city the size of Edmonton. I am not a career politician; I am a manager, an entrepreneur, and a community advocate. For over a decade, I served as an Area Operations Manager for a major Canadian company operating in multiple jurisdictions. This role demands disciplined fiscal management and effective resource allocation. City Council is responsible for a multi-billion dollar budget, and my experience managing complex, multi-million dollar operations means I already possess the practical skills to conduct a genuine line-by-line review, identify waste, and ensure tax dollars are used efficiently for core services. Furthermore, my background provides a unique, balanced perspective: Strategic Growth: As an entrepreneur and holder of an MBA in Leadership and Sustainability, I understand the mechanics of economic growth and the need for strategic, long-term planning, not short-term fixes or corporate handouts. Advocacy and Negotiation: My work on various Boards of Directors (e.g., Zimbabwe Diaspora Investment Council) has honed my ability to advocate strongly and negotiate confidently for the interests of a community, a critical skill for inter-governmental relations with the Provincial and Federal governments. Compassionate HR Management: My deep experience in human resources management has shown me that the most effective leaders are those who treat people with dignity and respect. I will apply this people-first approach to policy, ensuring that our response to social issues, like the drug crisis, is compassionate, effective, and centered on well-being. My entire professional track record is about getting results, managing budgets effectively, and leading with integrity—that is what I will bring to City Hall.

Diana Steele: With over 35 years of diverse experience, I bring a wealth of relevant skills and perspectives to the role. My background includes teaching across all levels from early childhood to Grade 12, as well as business courses at NorQuest College for nearly a decade, which honed my communication, facilitation, and adaptability skills. I have written policy for the Government of Alberta, demonstrating analytical and strategic thinking, and served as a volunteer coordinator for Pilgrims Hospice Society, strengthening my leadership and community engagement abilities. Currently, I work in real estate and as a contractor for the Immigration and Refugee Board, roles that have enhanced my negotiation, problem-solving, and cultural sensitivity skills. Supported by a degree in Education, a Master’s in Leadership, and a Queen’s University certificate in Organization Development, I am equipped to navigate complex environments, lead collaboratively, and deliver strategic solutions. My empathetic, versatile, and analytical approach, combined with strong communication skills, will enable me to excel in this role by fostering collaboration, addressing challenges strategically, and engaging effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Jordon Woodruff: No response.

Ward 2 (Anirniq)

1 To Be Elected

Ali Al Kassab: My professional background in managing my own business has equipped me with the skills to manage complex budgets, build consensus, and deliver practical results. This experience allows me to approach city challenges with a focus on fiscal responsibility and collaborative problem-solving. I am committed to using these skills to serve the residents of Edmonton effectively.

Nurmaiya Brady: No response.

Rob Fediuk: No response.

Ali Haymour: I hold a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in History and a minor in Sociology. Following my graduation, I had the honour of serving in the Canadian Armed Forces. Today, I continue to serve our communities as an Alberta Sheriff, working every day to help keep our streets safe. I'm married to my sweetheart, Layal, a dedicated schoolteacher. Together, we’re raising three wonderful children. Before beginning our careers and starting our family, Layal and I launched a small business from the ground up. We successfully built and sold it, and the proceeds helped us buy our first home, a milestone we’re very proud of. As a proud member of the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees (AUPE), I’ve served as both Chapter Chair and Shop Steward. I’ve been a strong advocate for fair wages, better benefits, workers' rights, and improvements to our pension system. I have also served on the Edmonton City Vehicle for Hire Commission, where I’ve worked to improve rideshare and taxi services through practical, community-focused recommendations.

Erin Rutherford: No response.

Aggripa Wajo: My experiencce implementing world Bank projects and coordinating government programs was valuable that gave me a different perspective about running government. Government processes including bureaucratic delays, procurement process that needs months to complete and the need for quick results have been my experience with the government. With these experience, and how to circumvent these processes for quick results, I am ready to bring a diffrent perspetive to the city council that is result oriented. That makes me the best choice for this role.

Jesse Watson: No response.

Ward 3 (tastawiyiniwak)

1 To Be Elected

Fidel Ammar: No response.

Farhan Chak: My professional experience as a Professor of Political Science, author, and community leader has given me a deep understanding of governance, policy analysis, and the importance of civic responsibility. Over two decades, I’ve taught and researched issues such as fiscal accountability, public engagement, and social cohesion — all central to effective municipal governance. As Founder and Director of Veritas Leadership Consultancy, I’ve worked with diverse organizations to strengthen ethical leadership, improve decision-making, and promote community-driven development. This has equipped me with strong strategic, analytical, and communication skills. The perspective I bring — combining academic expertise with grassroots community involvement — will help me ensure that decisions at City Council are transparent, evidence-based, and responsive to residents’ real needs. I believe in listening first, leading by example, and restoring trust between citizens and their representatives.

Jimmy Clement Idi: I have experience in community engagement, public policy, and advocacy, working with diverse groups to solve local issues. I have developed skills in collaboration, strategic planning, and transparent decision making. These experiences help me understand community needs and turn them into practical solutions at City Hall

Jennifer Porritt: No response.

Karen Principe: No response.

Ward 4 (Dene)

1 To Be Elected

Paul Brake: No response.

Albert Mazzocca: No response.

Lana Palmer: No response.

Aaron Paquette: No response.

Banisha Sandhu: No response.

Jean Pierre Valois: No response.

Ward 5 (O-day'min)

1 To Be Elected

David Aaron: My name is David Aaron. I was born and raised in Edmonton, growing up in the Delton community, in the very home my father built in 1958. I am a proud graduate of Eastwood, Eastglen High School, and NAIT. For the past decade, I’ve called downtown Edmonton my home, in the heart of the O-day'min ward. Through my life, I’ve gained valuable experience in leadership, community involvement, and entrepreneurship. I’ve spent many years running a successful construction business that developed residential housing projects across Western Canada, giving me a deep understanding of the housing market, development processes, and economic growth. This experience has honed my skills in project management, strategic planning, and community engagement—traits that are essential for effective city leadership. Additionally, I’ve spent my life balancing work, family, and community involvement, which has given me a firsthand understanding of the challenges residents face, including rising costs of living and the importance of accessible, safe neighborhoods. I’m committed to bringing that perspective to City Hall to advocate for policies that support families, create affordable housing options, and promote sustainable growth. I am running for City Council to bring accountability, transparency, and practical solutions. My goal is to help build safe neighborhoods, support affordable living, and ensure inclusive, smart growth in O-day'min—because I believe together, we can create a city that works for everyone.

Stephen Hammerschmidt: No response.

James Miller: I have worked as a daily reporter, communications officer, international school teacher and as a care provider for individuals and in group homes, to name just a few positions among decades of work experience. These positions have all led me to dealing with people either addressing their desires to better themselves and/or make the world a better place. I believe this gives me a unique and broad perspective that will make me to effectively listen to and respond to the needs of Edmontonians.

Lee Permann: No response.

Adil Pirbhai: No response.

Anand Benjamin Pye: No response.

Anne Stevenson: No response.

Patrick Stewart: No response.

Mulugeta (Mully) Tesfay: No response.

Ward 6 (Métis)

1 To Be Elected

Abdulhakim Dalel: No response.

James Gosse: I bring a broad, hands-on background that fits the work of a city councilor. I started in door to door sales, then worked in retail and the service industry, spent time with Statistics Canada, managed residential properties for several years, and gained exposure to legal processes. Door to door and frontline service taught me clear communication, active listening, and de-escalation. Statistics Canada strengthened my data literacy, evidence-based decision making, and respect for privacy and process. Property management gave me practical experience with budgets, vendor coordination, maintenance planning, bylaw compliance, conflict resolution, and emergency response. My legal exposure helped me read contracts and understand regulatory frameworks. These experiences translate directly to council work. I know how to meet people where they are, turn concerns into workable plans, and balance costs, timelines, and accountability. I have seen firsthand how dissatisfied many residents are with the status quo, and that perspective keeps me focused on results: safer transit, more affordable housing, responsive city services, and transparent use of taxpayer dollars.

Caroline Matthews: No response.

Norm Paradis: I have worked in road maintenance. Sewer and water. Also house construction. I feel that I have life experience that will aid me well in dealing with infrastructure issues.

Ashley Salvador: No response.

Justin Thomas: I worked as a nurse for six years before joining the police service, where I have proudly served as a frontline officer for the past twelve years. During this time, I have built strong connections with our communities and gained a deep understanding of the challenges people face every day. I have also witnessed firsthand how government policies can negatively impact lives. That is why I am stepping into politics—to give people a stronger voice and to ensure real community consultation is at the heart of every decision.

Ward 7 (sipiwiyiniwak)

1 To Be Elected

Bassam Fares: No response.

Darrell Friesen: No response.

Giselle Quezon General: I bring over 15 years of civic service, nonprofit leadership, and citywide governance experience. I served as Chair of the Edmonton Transit Service Advisory Board, VP of the Edmonton Federation of Community Leagues, board director in multiple organizations and community leagues. Professionally, I worked in frontline nonprofit at the Edmonton Community Legal Centre and currently in public service with the Government of Alberta. I serve my cultural community as a columnist for two Filipino newspapers in Alberta, and I’m a writer and filmmaker. Through this I’ve learned how to balance budgets, set priorities, and build practical policies rooted in community needs, as well as being able to communicate with people from all walks of life. I know how City Hall works and how to make it work better for residents, always with accountability, accessibility, and efficient service delivery in mind.

Danny Heikkinen: This is my second run for council, and I’m coming back with a stronger foundation. I hold a degree in psychology and have 1.5 years of experience in data analysis. For nearly a decade, I’ve successfully operated a multi-million dollar business, becoming the largest Benjamin Moore retailer in northern Alberta. Recognizing the need for governance experience after my first campaign, I’ve since served on federal, provincial, community league, and nonprofit boards. These roles have equipped me with the insight and leadership skills essential for effective public service. My business background gives me a clear understanding of the challenges facing our local business community. I know how critical budgeting and sound fiscal policy are to sustainable growth. I also maintain strong relationships at both the federal and provincial levels - connections that our city must leverage to rebuild partnerships and secure the support we need.

Roger Kotch: I was a housing contractor, equipment contractor, stock broker and presently financial advisor. I am the founder of a biotech of a biotech company that presently has the world's best monoclonal antibody for Alzheimer's in a clinically approved FDA study. My diverse background gives me the ability to make responsible decisions.

Thu Parmar: No response.

Ken Ropcean: No response.

Ward 8 (papastew)

1 To Be Elected

Joshua Doyle: No response.

Mark Hillman: For the past seven years, I’ve served as a Financial Consultant for both major corporations and nonprofit organizations. This role has provided me with valuable insight across a broad range of industries and sectors. In particular, I’ve developed extensive experience working directly with CFOs and Boards of Directors—experience that closely mirrors how municipal Administration engages with City Council. It’s this blend of financial expertise and strategic collaboration that I bring to the table—skills that are critical for navigating complex civic decisions and ensuring accountable, transparent governance.

Terrie Holgerson: No response.

Rozalia Janiszewska: I have been a leader in multiple activist and religious organisations and I have experience professionally working in social work with homeless people, refugees, LGBT people, people with disabilities, etc.

Michael Janz: No response.

Ward 9 (pihêsiwin)

1 To Be Elected

Sara Awatta: No response.

Michael Elliott: My professional experience has given me a strong foundation to serve effectively on City Council — not only through my years of public service, but also through my leadership roles at multiple levels. I’ve served as President of the Edmonton Police Association, President of the Alberta Federation of Police Associations, and as a Director with the Canadian Police Association. These positions provided me with direct experience dealing with federal, provincial, and municipal governments, which is highly relevant to the role of a City Councillor. Through this work, I’ve had numerous opportunities to engage with City Council members, MLAs, MPs, and senior government officials. I’ve been involved in high-level labour negotiations, worked collaboratively with various unions across the city, and participated in labour relations meetings with the Edmonton Police Commission and city representatives. These experiences have sharpened my understanding of how city governance works — not just from the outside, but from within. I know how to navigate complex systems, build relationships across political lines, and advocate for fair, effective, and community-focused solutions. More importantly, my perspective is grounded in real-world problem-solving. I’ve seen firsthand the impact city policies have on workers, families, and frontline services. I’m not entering this role to learn how government works — I’m stepping in ready to contribute on day one, with a deep understanding of how to get things done for the people of Edmonton.

Mohammad Ali Kamal: No response.

Larry Langley: 31.5 years as a Police Officer, last ten years focusing on prevention, prediction, intervention, communication with respect to crime and public safety. The role allowed me to drill down on the issues that impact us all and to try a combination of methodologies, in an effort to find solution's.

Jackie Liu: I have extensive background in health and social services, and have operated non-profits for many years. I'm a clinician at my core and driven by operations and proper process; that means I have first-hand expertise at finding solutions to some of our most complex social issues, but also financial discipline and accountability for the funding that my organizations depend on to do the work.

Rupesh Patel: I’ve spent my career in public service with both the City of Edmonton and the Government of Alberta, leading teams and shaping policy on climate change, transportation, health care, electricity reform, and traffic safety. That experience taught me how to tackle tough challenges, balance competing priorities, and work across sectors to get results. As a Councillor, I’ll bring that same practical, solutions-focused approach to make sure Edmonton delivers on the basics while preparing for the future.

Ward 10 (Ipiihkoohkanipiaohtsi)

1 To Be Elected

Ramey Demian: I bring over 40 years of experience as a business entrepreneur and licensed real estate broker in Edmonton. I have served on the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) as a council member and participated as chair or member on committees such as finance and governance, as well as on the Edmonton Assessment Review Board (ARB), where I worked directly on issues of assessment, taxation, accountability, and fairness. My experience negotiating contracts, reviewing assessments, and advocating for both residents and businesses has equipped me with the skills to promote responsible spending, enhance efficiency at City Hall, and ensure transparent decision-making.

Beth Mathison: No response.

Jon Morgan: I bring a hands-on mix of frontline service, small business experience, and community leadership — exactly what City Council needs. I spent 18 years working with Edmonton Transit, gaining deep insight into how our city runs — and how it could run better. I’ve seen where our transit system works, where it falls short, and how vital it is to listen to the people who rely on and deliver these services every day. As a small business owner, I know the real-world challenges local entrepreneurs face — from navigating the system to rising costs — and what support businesses need to succeed. And through years of volunteering, whether it’s tackling food insecurity or leading the build of the new Heritage Point Community League rink, I’ve stayed grounded in what matters most to families in our ward. These aren’t just experiences — they’re perspectives I’ve lived. I know how City policies impact real people, because I’ve worked in the system, built in the community, and stood shoulder-to-shoulder with neighbours making a difference. That’s the voice I’ll bring to City Hall: practical, people-first, and rooted in service.

Fahad Mughal: I worked as a Business Analyst at the City of Edmonton, where I streamlined processes and improved efficiency, generating millions of dollars in additional revenue for the city without raising fees. Earlier, I served as a Senior Manager at a land development firm internationally that focused on community-based affordable housing. I also completed executive education in Public Policy at Harvard, where my classmates included public policy makers and senior bureaucrats from around the world. We shared experiences and worked on leading case studies that deepened my understanding of governance, accountability, and practical policy design. These experiences taught me how to identify inefficiencies, lead complex projects, and ensure public resources are used effectively to deliver real results for residents.

Funke Olokude: No response.

Nicholas Rheubottom: I am the Founder and Principal of 4Sight Advisory, where I help businesses, non-profits, and community organizations grow, secure funding, and deliver strategic projects. My work has included consulting on several mixed-market housing initiatives and supporting surplus school site redevelopments, as well as workforce and community development programs that balance social needs with financial realities. Previously, I led organizations focused on city-building and economic development, including work on zoning reforms and supporting Edmonton’s small business community. These roles have given me experience in governance, collaboration, and fiscal management, which are essential at City Hall. My perspective is shaped by working across Edmonton’s communities and industries, and I believe this mix of experience equips me to deliver practical, lasting results for residents.

Jennifer Rice: No response.

Ward 11 (Karhiio)

1 To Be Elected

Jason Bale: I worked for four years in the Ward Karhiio (formerly Ward 11) Council office as a Research Assistant. Part of my role was to research ward issues, find potential solutions, compile the data for those solutions, and present my findings to the Councillor for consideration with any by-laws or other policies and assist with the process of tabling them in Council Chambers. Some of the policies I helped establish include: Community Policing Program, Front Yards in Bloom, and having Bill 3 unanimously passed in the Legislature to help protect our mobile home owners.

Manny Bautista: No response.

Joti Buttar: I have over a decade of experience in public service, working across multiple levels of government to strengthen community engagement and ensure residents’ voices are heard. My work in infrastructure, permitting, and development gave me a clear understanding of how city systems function — and where they need improvement. As a Senior Cultural Media Advisor for seven years, I built strong relationships with diverse communities, advocating for inclusion and access to government programs. These experiences have equipped me with the skills to listen, collaborate, and find practical solutions that make city services more efficient, transparent, and community-focused.

Yogesh Garg: No response.

Hali Kaur: No response.

Paul Mah: No response.

Atiq Rehman: No response.

Avinash Soochit: No response.

Keren Tang: No response.

Ward 12 (Sspomitapi)

1 To Be Elected

Imran Bashir: No response.

Annie Chua-Frith: As a longtime community leader and the current President of the Philippine Bayanihan Association, I’ve spent years building inclusive programs, organizing multicultural events, and advocating for practical solutions that serve diverse residents. My work has involved close collaboration with municipal departments, nonprofit partners, and grassroots organizers—giving me firsthand insight into how City Hall operates and where it can better serve Edmontonians. I’ve led initiatives that promote transparency, cultural inclusion, and efficient service delivery, including multilingual signage projects, waste collection advocacy, and community-driven celebrations like Mabuhay Park. These experiences have sharpened my ability to listen deeply, communicate clearly across cultures, and design programs that reflect both fiscal responsibility and long-term community impact. I bring a strategic mindset to planning and budgeting, a diplomatic approach to stakeholder engagement, and a deep commitment to ethical leadership. I understand the importance of setting boundaries while remaining accessible, and I’ve consistently responded to public scrutiny with clarity, warmth, and accountability. These skills will help me navigate complex issues at City Hall and ensure that decisions are made with both practicality and compassion.

Harman Singh Kandola: I was born and raised in Edmonton and have built my career around service to this city. Professionally, I have worked as a lawyer and business leader, giving me firsthand experience with budgeting, governance, and making complex decisions responsibly. I have served as Regional President for the World Sikh Organization, Chair of the Board of the Newcomer Centre, and as a member of Edmonton’s Anti-Racism Advisory Committee. These roles taught me how to bring people with very different perspectives together, manage large budgets and organizations, and deliver results for the community. I believe those experiences are exactly what City Hall needs right now. Practical leadership, fiscal responsibility, and someone who can listen to residents, build partnerships, and turn good ideas into action. As councillor for Ward Sspomitapi, I will bring the same discipline, accountability, and collaborative approach to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and core services come first.

Sukhi Randhawa: No response.

Sandeep Singh: No response.

Ashok Sui: No response.

Steve van Diest: As a lifelong resident of southeast Edmonton, raised in Weinlos and living in Wild Rose, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges and opportunities in our community. My career in production has put me at the table with industries ranging from construction and mining to medical, research and development, News, Sports and technology, giving me a broad understanding of how decisions impact families and businesses. Combined with my background in media, communications, and entrepreneurship, I bring the experience, perspective, and skills needed to serve Sspomitapi effectively as your councillor.

Jo-Anne Wright: No response.

Ward 1 (Nakota Isga)

1 To Be Elected

Reed Clarke: No response.

Nicky Gocuan: No response.

Rajah Maggay: No response.

Joseph Mugodo: Based on the significant and wide-spread community outreach my team and I have conducted over the past 6-months, the biggest issues affecting Edmontonians that we have identified are the erosion of public trust due to fiscal indiscipline, the neglect of core services, and the growing Mental Health and Addiction Crisis. These issues are intertwined and demand a disciplined, strategic and compassionate approach. We need to develop a collaborative plan with ALL stakeholders that has staying power beyond the election cycle and does not get neglected, thrown to the curb or reworked in four years time. Please see the key issue areas below and my planned preliminary approach to solving them. 1. The Financial Burden on Families and Businesses Unsustainable property tax increases and a high cost of living are putting immense pressure on our community. City Hall must be fiscally responsible. Approach: I will enforce a responsible budgeting framework that limits property tax increases to the rate of inflation, providing families and businesses with predictability. I commit to a genuine line-by-line review of city spending to eliminate waste and reallocate funds to where they belong—in the community. I will also streamline development permits to boost the supply of diverse, affordable housing. 2. The Neglect of Core Services Basic city infrastructure, including roads, snow clearing, and park maintenance, has been chronically neglected, which impacts the quality of life for every single Edmontonian. Approach: The solution is simple: refocus the budget on the must-haves. I will redirect funds currently spent on "vanity projects" to properly maintain our essential infrastructure. This includes a transparent audit and a firm commitment to prioritizing road repair and effective, timely snow removal operations. 3. The Mental Health and Addiction Crisis This is a public health emergency that is tearing apart our communities and straining our emergency services. Approach: I will champion a compassionate, evidence-based public health model that listens to and takes into account the lived experience of the affected populations, their families and experts within the mental health and addiction disorder fields. This means leading a cross-sectoral task force to coordinate a city-wide system of care, advocating strongly for provincial funding and low-barrier, voluntary treatment options, and reallocating city resources away from ineffective punitive measures and toward essential harm reduction and outreach services like expanded Supervised Consumption Sites.

Diana Steele: The biggest issues affecting Nakota Isga vary depending on where residents live, but a unifying concern across all communities is the growing sense that City Council no longer listens to or represents its people. In the Deep West End, residents grapple with garbage management issues, limited vehicle mobility during peak times, and heightened concerns about safety and security. In contrast, Central West residents face challenges with infill development disrupting neighborhoods, ongoing safety and security worries, and road construction that seems to block every route. Drawing on my 35 years of community engagement, policy writing for the Government of Alberta, and leadership across sectors, I would address these issues through a community-centered, collaborative approach. For Deep West End concerns, I’d advocate for improved waste management systems, traffic flow optimization using data-driven urban planning, and enhanced police presence. In Central West, I’d tackle infill by facilitating transparent community consultations, streamline construction schedules to minimize disruptions, and prioritize safety through targeted crime prevention programs. To address the overarching lack of representation, I’d leverage my Master’s in Leadership and Queen’s University certificate in Organization Development to foster open town halls, establish resident advisory groups, and rebuild trust by ensuring Council decisions reflect community input. My experience teaching at NorQuest College and coordinating volunteers at Pilgrims Hospice Society equips me to bridge divides, amplify resident voices, and drive inclusive, practical solutions that make Nakota Isga’s communities feel heard and valued.

Jordon Woodruff: No response.

Ward 2 (Anirniq)

1 To Be Elected

Ali Al Kassab: The biggest issues are managing tax increases, affordability, community safety, and core infrastructure. My approach is grounded in fiscal responsibility and practical solutions: Taxes & Spending: I will scrutinize every dollar, prioritizing core services and seeking efficiencies to minimize the tax burden on families and businesses. Affordability & Housing: By streamlining development processes to boost housing supply, we can address the root cost-of-living pressures. Safety & Infrastructure: I'll champion smarter investments, like co-response teams and better project coordination to ensure we get effective services and lasting value for every tax dollar spent.

Nurmaiya Brady: No response.

Rob Fediuk: No response.

Ali Haymour: Over the past decade, I’ve watched the quality of life in Edmonton gradually decline. I believe this is the result of rising taxes and fees, poor decision-making, ineffective government management, and misplaced spending priorities. If elected, I will bring a more responsible, transparent, accountable, and community-driven approach to public service one that puts Edmonton residents first. Together, we can restore Edmonton as a great place to live, raise a family, and build a prosperous future.

Erin Rutherford: No response.

Aggripa Wajo: The biggest issue I think is the inceasing number of homelessness. As the population increases, the number of homeless people will also continue increase. While the city's spending on social services should ideally increase as the population inceases, more funding should be allocated to eradicating homelessness. More funds should be allocated to affordable housing, job creation and training as well as social research that addresses the issues of homelessness.

Jesse Watson: No response.

Ward 3 (tastawiyiniwak)

1 To Be Elected

Fidel Ammar: No response.

Farhan Chak: Failire in civic leadership to prioritize people over profit. I would focus on fiscal responsibility, affordability and poverty reduction.

Jimmy Clement Idi: Some of the biggest issues facing Edmonton are fair property taxes, housing for all, safer streets, and reliable snow removal and bike lanes. I would approach these by listening closely to residents, ensuring city services are efficient and equitable, and prioritizing practical solutions that make daily life better. My focus is on creating safe, accessible neighborhoods, supporting housing options for everyone, and maintaining streets and active transportation infrastructure so all Edmontonians can move around the city safely and efficiently.

Jennifer Porritt: No response.

Karen Principe: No response.

Ward 4 (Dene)

1 To Be Elected

Paul Brake: No response.

Albert Mazzocca: No response.

Lana Palmer: No response.

Aaron Paquette: No response.

Banisha Sandhu: No response.

Jean Pierre Valois: No response.

Ward 5 (O-day'min)

1 To Be Elected

David Aaron: I believe the biggest issues currently affecting Edmonton include affordable housing, public safety, homelessness, traffic congestion, and infrastructure maintenance. Addressing these challenges requires a balanced and strategic approach. For affordable housing and homelessness, I would support increasing investment in diverse housing options, expanding outreach programs, and working collaboratively with community organizations to provide support and services. Ensuring all residents have access to safe, affordable housing is essential. Regarding public safety, I would prioritize community-based policing, stronger crime prevention measures, and initiatives that foster trust and collaboration between law enforcement and residents. Traffic congestion and infrastructure require long-term planning and investment. I would advocate for modernizing transportation networks, promoting public transit, and maintaining infrastructure to improve safety and reduce commute times. Overall, I believe these issues are interconnected, and a comprehensive approach that involves community input, responsible spending, and collaboration across all levels of government is key to building a stronger, safer, and more affordable Edmonton for everyone.

Stephen Hammerschmidt: No response.

James Miller: The city's homeless population, with its problems with drug addiction and mental illness is the city's biggest issue. I've laid out a comprehensive to deal with it on my website. Housing is my next concern. The city is not growing at the pace some suggest and I think we need to scale back on the large eight-plex infill buildings now being constructed. We need to make sure there is adequate parking and other city services, like garbage removal, in place on a case by case basis.

Lee Permann: No response.

Adil Pirbhai: No response.

Anand Benjamin Pye: No response.

Anne Stevenson: No response.

Patrick Stewart: No response.

Mulugeta (Mully) Tesfay: No response.

Ward 6 (Métis)

1 To Be Elected

Abdulhakim Dalel: No response.

James Gosse: Crime and Safer Transit • Increase uniformed police and transit peace officers at high-risk stations with extended hours • Establish fixed presence zones, use data for deployment, coordinate with mental health and addiction teams • Advocate stronger, consistent sentencing for violent and repeat offenders with public reporting and collaboration with Alberta Justice • Ban retail sale of hard drug paraphernalia with fines and licence consequences Housing Affordability • Revitalize boarded up buildings through city acquisition and developer incentives with 10 to 15 year affordability commitments • Implement a vacancy tax of 1 percent on units empty more than 1 year, with sensible exemptions • One year property tax holiday for first time home buyers Cost of Living and Taxes • Eliminate bag fees • Pause residential property tax increases for two years • Pause new discretionary art and culture spending, honour existing contracts, conduct a full spending review Transportation • Freeze new traffic management experiments that reduce road capacity • Require cost benefit and congestion impact reviews before reconfigurations • Focus on potholes, signal timing, and clear, accessible roads with real public input Jobs and Youth • Recreate a local STEP program to create 3,500 summer jobs for youth aged 15 to 24 • Add 500 more youth jobs by mirroring the provincial incentive model in Edmonton • Cut business licence fees by 50 percent for two years and simplify requirements for home based businesses Message to Voters Edmontonians deserve safety, affordability, and accountability. This plan delivers practical fixes that put residents first and restores confidence in city services.

Caroline Matthews: No response.

Norm Paradis: The biggest issues affecting Edmonton are our current council not dealing with maintaining existing infrastructure and just spending money on rushing to get LRT and bike lanes. Also they are allowing a “Wild West “ kind of infill to happen in neighborhoods.

Ashley Salvador: No response.

Justin Thomas: Safety, property tax increases, the blanket rezoning bylaw, homelessness, and the lack of consultation with the public are the main concerns I hear at the doors. I will improve safety by encouraging police to enforce all laws on the book, and I will reduce costs by cutting wasteful spending and returning provincial and federal responsibilities to their respective governments. I will also advocate for repealing the blanket rezoning bylaw and encourage the provincial government to invest more in housing.

Ward 7 (sipiwiyiniwak)

1 To Be Elected

Bassam Fares: No response.

Darrell Friesen: No response.

Giselle Quezon General: The three consistent themes I hear at the doors are: • Affordability and value for taxes – Council must review spending carefully, find efficiencies, and set clear priorities. • Community safety and wellbeing – We need a balance of effective policing and compassionate, long-term solutions that address root causes, and implementation of plans that don’t aggressively disrupt people’s every lives. • City services people rely on – Roads maintained, snow cleared, trash collected, and transit running reliably and affordably. I approach these issues by listening directly to residents, weighing evidence, and ensuring decisions respect taxpayer dollars while delivering real results.

Danny Heikkinen: Taxation and Infill Over the past four years, we've seen a 30% increase in taxes - yet there's been no clear justification for it, especially given the lack of improvement in service delivery. I propose freezing the upcoming 6.8% tax hike and conducting a detailed audit of city spending and departmental operations. The public deserves transparency - not a 95-page report buried in bureaucracy, but a clear, accessible breakdown of where their money is going and what results it's producing. Auditing city departments is also essential to identify where communication is failing - whether between departments or between council and administration. If the root of poor service delivery lies in outdated or ineffective policies, then it's our responsibility as council to revise those policies and ensure administration operates with greater accountability and efficiency.

Roger Kotch: Taxes and the amount of overspending has Edmontonians in debt of almost 5 billion dollars, approximately 4500 for every man , woman and child living in Edmonton. Hundreds of millions of wasted spending, bike lanes, buses that we can't use and the Blatchford project, just to mention a few.

Thu Parmar: No response.

Ken Ropcean: No response.

Ward 8 (papastew)

1 To Be Elected

Joshua Doyle: No response.

Mark Hillman: Our city is at a crossroads, and the cracks in leadership are showing. Irresponsible zoning decisions are transforming our communities without real consultation or accountability. We’re being taxed more every year, yet residents are left wondering what exactly they’re paying for. Our LRT system has become a symbol of failed leadership—unsafe, unpredictable, and neglected. And bylaw enforcement? Practically invisible, because the people we rely on to uphold our standards have been underfunded and stretched to the limit. This isn’t just mismanagement—it’s a betrayal of the public trust. I’m running to change that. We need responsible zoning that respects the unique character of our neighborhoods—not a one-size-fits-all approach forced on communities from above. We need to refocus City Hall on core services, not vanity projects and ideological experiments, so we can finally deliver real value without endlessly raising your property taxes. Safety must be non-negotiable. That means putting police back on the LRT—not just to respond, but to deter crime before it happens. And it means giving our bylaw officers and enforcement teams the resources they need to actually enforce the rules and keep our public spaces safe, clean, and livable. Edmontonians deserve a city that works—for all of us. It’s time for leadership that puts people before politics.

Terrie Holgerson: No response.

Rozalia Janiszewska: Homelessness: Would adopt a Housing First approach and repeal the Public Spaces Bylaw Policing: Push for an audit of the EPS budget and ask the province to amend legislation to create a new, independent system for investigating and trying officers accused of a crime Transit: Reduce fares by 25 cents across the board and freeze fares for 3 years. Create new regular routes in parts of the city with limited transit access Accessibility: Amend Bylaw 20001 to insitute a mandatory minimum size for accessible washrooms in buildings open to the public and work on reforming the DATS system so it is less rigid and vehicles show up at the right time instead of an hour late

Michael Janz: No response.

Ward 9 (pihêsiwin)

1 To Be Elected

Sara Awatta: No response.

Michael Elliott: Edmonton is facing a number of serious challenges, but three key issues stand out to me: public safety, affordability, and trust in city leadership. 1. Public Safety: As a former President of the Edmonton Police Association and someone with decades of experience in policing and public service, I’ve seen firsthand how safety concerns — whether it’s crime, addiction, or social disorder — affect every neighbourhood. We need a balanced approach that supports frontline policing while also investing in social supports like mental health services, housing, and addiction recovery. These aren’t either-or conversations — we need to coordinate our efforts to create safe, healthy communities. 2. Affordability and Cost of Living: Many Edmontonians are struggling to keep up with rising property taxes, utility bills, and housing costs. City Hall must do a better job of managing our budget and ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent wisely. That means cutting unnecessary spending, increasing transparency, and focusing on core services. Affordability also means encouraging smart development, supporting local businesses, and ensuring city policies don’t drive up the cost of living. 3. Accountability and Leadership: Many residents feel disconnected from City Council and frustrated by decisions that don’t reflect the realities of everyday life. I’ve spent years working with various levels of government and advocating for people who often feel unheard. As a councillor, I’ll prioritize open communication, accessible decision-making, and common-sense leadership that puts people before politics. My approach to these issues is simple: listen first, act with integrity, and focus on practical solutions that deliver real results for Edmontonians. I bring experience, leadership, and a strong commitment to making our city safer, more affordable, and more accountable to the people who live here.

Mohammad Ali Kamal: No response.

Larry Langley: Departure from providing core/essential services at a high level. Instead the COE has focused on expensive ventures into social problems that are being addressed by other levels of government and community groups. I believe we need to stay in our lane and tackle spending by focusing on core services

Jackie Liu: Our overall affordability in Edmonton is difficult to manage. That is not just in property tax increases, but increased housing and transportation costs, as well as the costs to our health and wellbeing by concerns about safety on our streets, and being stuck in traffic continually. We need a measured approach that doesn't leave the City behind with additional service gaps, but is respectful of tax payer dollars and priorities.

Rupesh Patel: The overarching issue is a loss of trust. People are not feeling heard and being dismissed, which has led to splintering within communities. As a City when there are big changes such as the zoning bylaw or even bike lanes, we need to bring people along and get buy-in right from the start. People are seeing these changes and not seeing the basic core services being provided at the level that matches the city's growth, and this problem is exacerbated by rising property taxes. I want to build strong foundations by funding basic core services at levels that match the City's growth, while ensure there's safety in our community and transit system.

Ward 10 (Ipiihkoohkanipiaohtsi)

1 To Be Elected

Ramey Demian: Edmontonians are struggling with the rising cost of living, and on top of that they are being pinched by high property taxes, safety concerns, traffic congestion, and homelessness. I have seen this not just as a broker working with families, but also while serving on the ARB, where too often a tax increase meant a household had to sacrifice basic needs. I will advocate for financial accountability, making sure every tax dollar is tied to real, visible improvements in services. Safety requires continued investment in police, but also tackling root causes like addiction and homelessness through stronger partnerships with community organizations. On traffic and infrastructure, I will prioritize fixing sidewalks, roads, and transit reliability before expanding into new projects. My approach is practical: focus on the basics first, ensure residents feel safe, and spend responsibly. The next four years must be about rebuilding our city and restoring Edmonton as a place we are all proud to call home.

Beth Mathison: No response.

Jon Morgan: Infrastructure, Affordability, and Safety. Advocacy and collaboration are key. We need to ensure that we're proactive in building out our communities. Our infrastructure is not keeping up with demand. In Heritage Valley, our roadway network is over capacity. Major arterials like 41 Ave SW and 141 St SW are two lanes supporting multiple neighbourhoods and thousands of people and vehicles everyday causing congestion and dangerous choices. We need communities built with infrastructure that is ready to go for Edmontonians that need it. We'll have to prioritize catching up with the aforementioned arterials but it needs to happen immediately. As a city worker in LRT, I know how important safety is to our communities and our frontline. While I understand from EPS numbers that violent crime has gone down across the city generally, we're still seeing rising crime localized in corridors like the LRT. And I know it because I've lived it and seen too many things I'd rather have not. Responding to this is at multiple levels. There's engineered solutions like station upgrades, there's a social component - 5000 people living in crisis on the streets on the streets creates the conditions for people that have nefarious intentions to take advantage of - so we need to help the people that need help and that's working with our provincial and federal partners to find supportive housing for all, and finally there's an enforcement angle for the remainder. It's a long term solution but we deserve safety in our communities, in our homes, and travelling to work, just as much as our houseless community deserves safety on the streets. Affordability is a large scale issue that is compounded by inflation and other pressures. The city has a responsibility to Edmontonians to ensure that we make the best use of finite tax dollars possible. People need to be able to afford to stay in their homes. Edmonton can be a part of that solution ensuring that there is accountability in our budgeting process along with our infrastructure builds and general operations. As a current employee with the city for 18 years, I am in a unique position to be able to navigate those inner workings of the city with the relationships I've built and ensure accountability from the top down.

Fahad Mughal: The top issues I see in our city are high taxes, poor project management, the rising cost of major projects like the LRT, and growing concerns about public safety. My approach is focused on accountability and results. On high taxes, we need to control spending by improving efficiency rather than cutting essential services. As someone who has worked inside City operations, I know where processes break down and how to fix them. There shoukd be a 10% reduction in city councillors salary and 15% on Mayor's salary, followed by 10% reduction from top city management and 5% from middle management. (Accontability begins at home). For project management, I’ll push for stronger oversight, realistic budgeting, and transparent reporting to prevent cost overruns before they happen. With the LRT, we must review how decisions are made, involve independent experts, and ensure that future expansions are cost-effective and better integrated with community needs. A mix of BRT and LRT will save hundreds of millions of dollars and years in project completion. On public safety, we need a balanced approach that supports police while also investing in prevention and working with the province proactively. Deploying tactical security on LRT stations and increasing police patrols in hugh density crime areas. Overall, my goal is to make City Hall work smarter, not costlier.

Funke Olokude: No response.

Nicholas Rheubottom: Affordability and safety are major concerns. We must invest in infrastructure and housing while making sure residents see value for their taxes. My approach is pragmatic: protect essential services, remove red tape bureaucracy, and build a city that works for families and businesses alike.

Jennifer Rice: No response.

Ward 11 (Karhiio)

1 To Be Elected

Jason Bale: The number one issue Ward Karhiio residents raise concerns about is the zoning bylaw. The second thing I hear a lot about is property taxes. Residents are frustrated that taxes keep increasing but it is less and less apparent where those taxes are going to. To address the zoning bylaw, I intend to make two motions; 1. Repeal the current by-law; 2. Knowing the repeal will take time, reduce the scope and scale of the automatic approvals pertaining to these building projects. Regarding property taxes, I posted a shadow budget on my website showing exactly where we can achieve a 15.1% tax decrease while increasing services.

Manny Bautista: No response.

Joti Buttar: Edmonton’s biggest issues are rising costs, slow infrastructure development, traffic congestion, safety concerns, and inefficiencies caused by red tape. Many residents feel disconnected from City Hall and frustrated by delays in essential services. My approach is rooted in listening, accountability, and practical problem-solving. I’ll prioritize getting back to basics: fixing roads, improving snow removal, and ensuring safer, more efficient neighbourhoods. I’ll work to streamline permitting and development to attract growth and jobs while focusing on inclusive community programs for seniors, youth, and families. Edmonton needs strong leadership that listens, manages resources wisely, and delivers results residents can see and feel.

Yogesh Garg: No response.

Hali Kaur: No response.

Paul Mah: No response.

Atiq Rehman: No response.

Avinash Soochit: No response.

Keren Tang: No response.

Ward 12 (Sspomitapi)

1 To Be Elected

Imran Bashir: No response.

Annie Chua-Frith: Edmonton is facing a pivotal moment—one that calls for practical leadership rooted in transparency, inclusion, and long-term thinking. Among the most pressing issues are: - Municipal Spending and Accountability: Residents deserve clarity on where their tax dollars go and assurance that spending reflects community priorities. I will advocate for transparent budgeting, regular public reporting, and meaningful consultation—especially with underrepresented communities. We must ensure that every dollar contributes to lasting impact, not short-term fixes. - Housing and Affordability: Edmonton’s housing crisis affects families, seniors, and newcomers alike. I support practical zoning reforms, partnerships with nonprofit developers, and culturally responsive housing strategies. We need to prioritize affordability without compromising livability, and ensure that housing solutions reflect the diversity of our city. - Public Safety and Community Well-being: Safety must go hand-in-hand with trust. I believe in strengthening community-based policing, investing in mental health supports, and expanding programs that prevent harm before it happens. I’ll work to ensure that all residents—especially youth, seniors, and marginalized groups—feel safe and supported in their neighbourhoods. - Infrastructure and Service Delivery: From waste collection to snow removal, residents expect reliable, efficient services. I’ll push for smarter planning, better communication, and inclusive design—so that infrastructure works for everyone, including those in multifamily housing and those with mobility challenges. My approach is grounded in listening, collaboration, and action. I’ll continue to meet residents where they are, respond with clarity and care, and build solutions that reflect both fiscal responsibility and community values.

Harman Singh Kandola: The biggest issues I hear about across Edmonton are affordability, safety, and the need to get back to basics at City Hall. Property taxes have gone up by 28 percent and now the current council is looking to increase them even more. Families and small businesses cannot keep paying more while feeling like they are getting less in return. I believe we need smart budgeting and responsible spending so we can lower the burden on taxpayers and still improve services. Public safety is another major concern. Too many residents feel unsafe on transit, in their neighbourhoods, and in public spaces. I would work to improve lighting, expand community partnerships, and ensure better coordination between the City, police, and social agencies so that safety is addressed both immediately and at the root causes. Finally, Edmontonians are frustrated that the City has lost focus on core services. Roads and sidewalks are not well maintained, transit is unreliable, and new communities are growing without the schools, recreation centres, and amenities they were promised. We also see mature neighbourhoods facing infill developments without proper consultation after council removed the feedback surveys that gave residents a voice. My approach is simple. Respect taxpayers, focus on the basics, and listen to residents. City Hall needs to deliver results, not more broken promises.

Sukhi Randhawa: No response.

Sandeep Singh: No response.

Ashok Sui: No response.

Steve van Diest: Edmonton is facing serious challenges that need immediate attention. We are nearly $5 billion in debt, with $400 million each year going just to interest payments, yet council continues to push costly projects while cutting back on core services. Families are struggling with affordability, small businesses are under pressure, and many neighbourhoods don’t feel safe. My policies focus on getting Edmonton back on track: reviewing the budget to ensure tax dollars are spent wisely, stopping wasteful spending on ideology-driven projects, investing in frontline services like police, fire, and transit safety, and supporting businesses so our local economy can thrive. It’s about putting people before politics, listening to residents, and building a city we can all afford and feel safe in.

Jo-Anne Wright: No response.

Ward 1 (Nakota Isga)

1 To Be Elected

Reed Clarke: No response.

Nicky Gocuan: No response.

Rajah Maggay: No response.

Joseph Mugodo: The primary role of municipal government is to focus on core services and ensure the daily quality of life for its residents. This includes providing essential infrastructure (roads, parks, utilities), ensuring public safety, managing responsible growth, and acting as the voice of Edmontonians to higher levels of government. I believe the City of Edmonton is currently doing too many things poorly. The issue isn't necessarily the scope of services, but the lack of disciplined execution and fiscal mismanagement that has overextended its budget and capacity. We see this failure in neglected roads and snow clearing, and in the ineffective, punitive response to social issues. The critical gap lies in how the City handles inter-governmental relations. Municipal government must serve as a highly effective liaison and advocate. We must maintain a strong, unapologetic stance with provincial and federal partners, not to take over their responsibilities (like the health crisis), but to efficiently and effectively work with them to secure the resources and authority needed to support our residents. The City should focus on doing its core responsibilities exceptionally well and serving as the primary problem-solver and coordinator.

Diana Steele: The role of a municipal government is to deliver essential services, foster community well-being, and represent residents’ interests through effective governance. This includes managing infrastructure (roads, transit, utilities), ensuring public safety (police, fire, emergency services), overseeing urban planning and development, addressing housing and homelessness with other levels of government, and promoting economic and environmental sustainability. It also involves engaging communities to ensure policies reflect local needs, as I’ve learned through my 35 years of community involvement and policy work with the Government of Alberta. Currently, Edmonton’s City Council is stretched thin, leaving residents across Nakota Isga to feel unheard. I believe the City takes on too many responsibilities without sufficient focus or resources, leading to inefficiencies and a disconnect with communities. My experience in education, leadership (Master’s in Leadership, Queen’s University certificate in Organization Development), and roles in real estate and the Immigration and Refugee Board equips me to advocate for a streamlined approach. The City should prioritize core services while fostering public-private partnerships and community input to enhance efficiency. By leveraging my skills in stakeholder engagement and strategic planning, I’d push for a Council that listens, prioritizes high-impact initiatives, and empowers residents, ensuring the City does the right things effectively rather than overextending itself.

Jordon Woodruff: No response.

Ward 2 (Anirniq)

1 To Be Elected

Ali Al Kassab: The core role of municipal government is to deliver the essential services that form the foundation of daily life: safe roads, reliable public transit, clean water, waste collection, and community safety through police and fire services. Currently, the City is often stretched trying to do too much without perfecting these core responsibilities. My focus is on getting the basics right. This means improving service delivery, ensuring value for tax dollars, and exercising discipline doing a few vital things excellently, rather than many things adequately.

Nurmaiya Brady: No response.

Rob Fediuk: No response.

Ali Haymour: not enough, while its true that the primary role of municipal government is to take care of the day-to-day needs of residents. Such as, safe roads, clean communities, reliable infrastructure, public safety, and core services that people rely on. But I also believe the City could be doing more, especially when it comes to economic resilience and long-term sustainability. COVID-19 taught me a hard lesson: we can’t afford to rely so heavily on global supply chains for essentials like medicine, food, or technology. I witnessed how borders were closed and store shelves emptied, with, toilet paper and baby Tylenol I saw just how vulnerable we really were. That’s why I believe municipal government should play a stronger role in supporting local manufacturing, local agriculture, local tech innovation and more. We should be creating the conditions for small businesses to thrive, for homegrown industries to scale, and for Edmonton to become more self-sufficient and economically secure. In short, the City isn’t doing too much it’s just not always focused on the right priorities. Let’s focus less on political distractions and more on building a strong local economy, supporting essential industries, and making sure Edmonton is ready for whatever the future brings.

Erin Rutherford: No response.

Aggripa Wajo: The city is expected to do even more. As I have stated, the bureaucratic nature of government including the council is overdurdened by processes and the red tape. These makes the government to do too little than is expected. So, it is my believe that that the city council can do better with all the processes including red tape shortened.

Jesse Watson: No response.

Ward 3 (tastawiyiniwak)

1 To Be Elected

Fidel Ammar: No response.

Farhan Chak: The city does enough but needs to do it better. City council is not functioning for the best interests of people.

Jimmy Clement Idi: The role of municipal government is to provide essential services that make daily life safe, accessible, and efficient for residents. This includes managing streets, transit, housing, snow removal, and public safety. I believe the City should focus on doing these core responsibilities well rather than taking on too many additional projects. By prioritizing effective service delivery, listening to residents, and using resources responsibly, municipal government can ensure Edmonton remains a safe, thriving, and livable city for all.

Jennifer Porritt: No response.

Karen Principe: No response.

Ward 4 (Dene)

1 To Be Elected

Paul Brake: No response.

Albert Mazzocca: No response.

Lana Palmer: No response.

Aaron Paquette: No response.

Banisha Sandhu: No response.

Jean Pierre Valois: No response.

Ward 5 (O-day'min)

1 To Be Elected

David Aaron: I believe the role of a municipal government is to serve as the foundation of the community, providing essential services, maintaining infrastructure, ensuring public safety, and fostering an environment where residents can thrive. It’s also about creating inclusive, vibrant neighborhoods and supporting economic growth. While the City should focus on its core responsibilities—such as transportation, public safety, sanitation, and community development—it must also do more to improve safety for all residents and to address the ongoing challenge of homelessness. These issues directly impact the quality of life in our city. It’s important for the City to regularly evaluate whether it's doing too much or too little, and to prioritize responsible spending, efficiencies, and community input to meet the true needs of Edmonton residents.

Stephen Hammerschmidt: No response.

James Miller: Municipal governments are closer to the people than any other form of government and tend to want to respond to all the issues they face. This is natural. What Edmonton needs to do is to find a way to more effectively enroll the province and the federal government in responding to the many challenges it faces and to remind the other levels of government of their responsibilities.

Lee Permann: No response.

Adil Pirbhai: No response.

Anand Benjamin Pye: No response.

Anne Stevenson: No response.

Patrick Stewart: No response.

Mulugeta (Mully) Tesfay: No response.

Ward 6 (Métis)

1 To Be Elected

Abdulhakim Dalel: No response.

James Gosse: The role of a municipal government is to deliver essential services reliably, manage growth, and be a responsible steward of taxpayer dollars. That means safe and clean water, waste collection, road and sidewalk maintenance, snow clearing, transit that people feel safe using, effective bylaw enforcement and policing in coordination with the province, parks and recreation, and transparent planning and permitting. It also means setting clear service standards, reporting results openly, and partnering with community groups and other governments on issues like housing and homelessness. I believe the City is doing too many discretionary things while core services fall behind. My approach is to refocus on essentials and measure results. I would launch a core services review, set public targets for pothole repair, snow clearing, transit safety, and permit timelines, publish a quarterly scorecard, pause non-essential new spending, and run value-for-money audits on major programs. Fewer things done better is how we restore trust and improve daily life for Edmontonians.

Caroline Matthews: No response.

Norm Paradis: I think the city takes on to many projects at once and can’t get anything finished in a timely manner

Ashley Salvador: No response.

Justin Thomas: The role of municipal government is to provide core services such as cutting grass, clearing snow, filling potholes, building and maintaining essential infrastructure, and ensuring the safety of our city. We should not be taking on provincial and federal responsibilities that inflate the city budget and ultimately force homeowners to pay the price.

Ward 7 (sipiwiyiniwak)

1 To Be Elected

Bassam Fares: No response.

Darrell Friesen: No response.

Giselle Quezon General: The City’s core role is to deliver essential services such roads, transit, waste collection, fire, police, recreation facilities, land-use planning, and utilities. It should also provide space for collaboration with social service agencies and nonprofits who fill gaps the City cannot directly address. And they need actively consulted in issues covered by other levels of government but need local infrastructure to implement, such as economic development, tourism, labour, Indigenous relations, environment and more. I believe the City sometimes spreads itself too thin at times, but it is due to the difficult circumstances that are facing them. As a concrete example: it’s hard to stop spending city funds on homelesness when police and transit resources need to address what is happening in public spaces because of a shortage of shelters and treatment beds. Council’s focus must be on doing its core responsibilities well and transparently before taking on additional initiatives, and it can only do so once it is certain that other orders of government have provided adequate support and lift that burden.

Danny Heikkinen: Municipal government should stay focused on its core responsibilities: transit, fire and police services, roads, utilities, snow clearing, and public amenities. These are the foundational services that directly affect residents' daily lives. Unfortunately, we’ve seen resources diverted to initiatives like bike lanes and climate programs—areas where outcomes are difficult to measure and the rationale isn’t always clear. Meanwhile, essential services like snow clearing continue to fall short. That’s not a complex issue - it’s a policy decision. We can and should update those policies to ensure our neighborhoods are served more frequently and effectively, especially given the decline we've seen over the past 4 to 8 years.

Roger Kotch: To be accountable to the citizens and insure core services are maintained. To be creative in generating revenue and not place the financial burden on citizens and businesses through taxes.

Thu Parmar: No response.

Ken Ropcean: No response.

Ward 8 (papastew)

1 To Be Elected

Joshua Doyle: No response.

Mark Hillman: I eel many things have been downloaded onto the city from the province and that is causing a lot of financial strain. That said we are also intentionally going well outside our mandate and are causing a lot of self harm in that regard. So I do believe we are doing too many things, some we cannot control btu many we can.

Terrie Holgerson: No response.

Rozalia Janiszewska: The city does just the right amount but some major reforms are needed in the way that it does those things

Michael Janz: No response.

Ward 9 (pihêsiwin)

1 To Be Elected

Sara Awatta: No response.

Michael Elliott: The role of municipal government is to provide the essential services that directly impact our daily lives — things like safe roads, public safety, reliable transit, waste management, parks, and maintaining local infrastructure. City Council is closest to the people, and it should be focused on delivering core services efficiently and effectively. In my view, the City has taken on too many things that fall outside its primary responsibilities. I believe City Council needs to stay in its lane and focus on what it was elected to do. We need to stop trying to be everything to everyone and start prioritizing needs over wants. That means investing in what’s essential for residents and businesses — not chasing expensive, ideological projects that don’t reflect the priorities of most Edmontonians. Good municipal governance means being fiscally responsible, transparent, and grounded in the everyday needs of the people we serve. If elected, that’s exactly the mindset I’ll bring to City Hall.

Mohammad Ali Kamal: No response.

Larry Langley: The COE is doing too much and their priorities are skewed. The role of municipal governments is to provide essential services, EFD, EPS, roadways, transit, snow clearing, lawn mowing on public areas. By taking on roles outside of our purview costs have skyrocketed and tax increases are the new norm. The role is to create an environment that fosters business growth and economic stability not dictate to private industry what is required.

Jackie Liu: Our municipal government provides the infrastructure and settings for all other service delivery from every other level of government. I feel our City is stretched too thinly to address all the unmet needs, many of which are the result of a lack of investment by other orders of government.

Rupesh Patel: There are many problems that are getting downloaded onto the City. For example, affordable housing and supporting people experiencing homelessness is something that the City is grappling with but it is largely a provincial responsibility. I think the next Council will have to make some hard choices as to what it should do, and build a better relationship with the province to get the funding the City needs to take care of issues that the City is getting involved in.

Ward 10 (Ipiihkoohkanipiaohtsi)

1 To Be Elected

Ramey Demian: This is a very important question, and there is no simple yes-or-no answer overall. The role of municipal government is to focus on the basics that directly affect residents’ daily lives: public safety, infrastructure, waste management, transit, and fair taxation. These are the core responsibilities where City Hall must deliver consistently and effectively. As someone who has worked with both businesses and homeowners, I’ve seen frustration when these basic responsibilities are neglected while resources are diverted to projects outside the City’s core role. In some areas, the City does too much; in others, not nearly enough. My view is that we must return to the fundamentals, make sure they are done right, and only then consider other initiatives. That balance is what builds trust and ensures taxpayer dollars are well spent.

Beth Mathison: No response.

Jon Morgan: The city has a responsibility to it's stakeholders. That's Edmontonians, that's it's workers, and that's the corporation. We have to work within the bounds of what's within our purview and advocate for what is outside of that. During doorknocking, people come to me with concerns about education and hospital access, both of which are outside the purview of municipal politics. That said, we can make the conditions favourable for their builds, and work to ensure that our relationships with our federal and provincial counterparts are positive. I've worked hard to maintain an independent campaign free of party influence, explicitly or hidden, to ensure I can work with whoever is at the table. There'll be times where we can celebrate wins together and when we can't, we can respectfully challenge eachother in the service of our shared constituents.

Fahad Mughal: The role of a city government is to prvovide core/essential services like public transit, road maintainance, utilities etc. A municipal government must not act as an employment agency but should rather employ people in pursuit of providing core services and to develop capital infrastructure project. This must be done effectively and efficiently.

Funke Olokude: No response.

Nicholas Rheubottom: Municipal government should focus on delivering core services efficiently. Right now, priorities feel off balance. City Hall should emphasize infrastructure, public safety, and housing affordability, while being careful not to spread too thin or take on responsibilities better handled by others.

Jennifer Rice: No response.

Ward 11 (Karhiio)

1 To Be Elected

Jason Bale: The role of our municipal government is clearly outlined in the MGA. Based on that definition, I believe the city concerns itself with too many things while the people are not receiving the services and support they should reasonably expect.

Manny Bautista: No response.

Joti Buttar: The role of municipal government is to deliver the essential services that shape residents’ daily lives from safe roads, clean neighbourhoods, and reliable transit to well-maintained parks and community spaces. I don’t believe the City needs to do more things; it needs to do the core things better. That means improving the quality, efficiency, and accountability of the services we already rely on. Too often, resources are spread thin while basic needs like road repair, snow removal, and permit processing fall behind. City Hall must refocus on delivering these foundational services with consistency, fairness, and a higher standard of care.

Yogesh Garg: No response.

Hali Kaur: No response.

Paul Mah: No response.

Atiq Rehman: No response.

Avinash Soochit: No response.

Keren Tang: No response.

Ward 12 (Sspomitapi)

1 To Be Elected

Imran Bashir: No response.

Annie Chua-Frith: Municipal government is the closest level of government to the people—it shapes our daily lives through the services, spaces, and decisions that affect how we live, move, and connect. Its role is to steward public resources responsibly, deliver essential services efficiently, and build inclusive communities where all residents feel safe, supported, and heard. I believe the City must focus on doing the right things—and doing them well. In some areas, Edmonton has taken on too much without clear outcomes or accountability. In others, especially housing, accessibility, and cultural inclusion, the City hasn’t done enough to meet the needs of residents. We need to refocus on core responsibilities like infrastructure, public safety, and service delivery, while ensuring that programs reflect the diversity and values of our communities. As a candidate, I bring a practical, community-first approach. I’ll advocate for transparent budgeting, inclusive planning, and programs that balance fiscal responsibility with long-term impact. Municipal government should not be everything to everyone—but it must be a trusted partner in building a city that works for all.

Harman Singh Kandola: The role of a municipal government is to deliver the core services that residents and businesses rely on every day. That means making sure our roads and sidewalks are safe and well maintained, that transit is reliable, that public spaces are clean and cared for, and that our neighbourhoods feel safe. City Hall is the level of government closest to people’s daily lives, and it needs to focus on getting the basics right. Right now, the City is trying to take on too much without doing the fundamentals well. Residents see rising property taxes, but also see roads full of potholes, unreliable transit, snow not cleared on time, and safety concerns in their communities. That erodes trust. I believe City Hall should focus first on delivering high quality core services and spending tax dollars wisely before expanding into other areas. Edmontonians are not asking for more government programs. They are asking for value for their tax dollars, safer neighbourhoods, and reliable services. That is where my focus will be as councillor.

Sukhi Randhawa: No response.

Sandeep Singh: No response.

Ashok Sui: No response.

Steve van Diest: The role of municipal government is to get the basics right. That means managing our city responsibly, focusing on core services like safe roads, reliable transit, clean neighbourhoods, and well-maintained infrastructure. Most importantly, it means backing our frontline emergency services, police, firefighters, and EMTs, so they have the resources and equipment they need to keep our families and communities safe. Council’s job isn’t to chase every new trend or ideology, but to make sure the essentials are done well, because that’s what people count on every day.

Jo-Anne Wright: No response.

Ward 1 (Nakota Isga)

1 To Be Elected

Reed Clarke: No response.

Nicky Gocuan: No response.

Rajah Maggay: No response.

Joseph Mugodo: I believe that property taxes in Edmonton are currently too high. This is a direct result of the City's lack of fiscal discipline and a budget that has prioritized non-core projects over essential services, placing an undue financial burden on families and businesses. We cannot continue to fund mismanagement and inefficiency on the backs of hardworking Edmontonians. To address this, I will implement a responsible budgeting framework that commits to limiting property tax increases to the rate of inflation, providing predictability and relief. Furthermore, I will champion a line-by-line review of the entire city budget to eliminate wasteful spending and ensure every tax dollar is invested sustainably into the core services that Edmontonians rely on and deserve. This is about being financially accountable to the residents we serve.

Diana Steele: Property taxes in Edmonton are too high for the inadequate services residents are receiving, including less frequent garbage collection that forces citizens to pay out of pocket for additional private services, unreliable snow removal leaving neighborhoods hazardous and prompting extra personal costs for clearing, and the Neighborhood Renewal program imposing thousands of dollars in upfront or added assessments on homeowners. Drawing on my 35 years of community engagement and policy experience with the Government of Alberta, I’d prioritize auditing these programs for efficiency, expanding public-private partnerships to offset costs, and increasing resident input to ensure taxes deliver real value in order to restore trust and fairness for Nakota Isga families.

Jordon Woodruff: No response.

Ward 2 (Anirniq)

1 To Be Elected

Ali Al Kassab: Property taxes are too high for what Edmontonians are receiving in return. Many residents and businesses feel the pinch without seeing a corresponding improvement in core services like road maintenance, public transit, or community safety. The solution isn't a simple cut that would cripple services, but a disciplined focus on value for money. My approach is to rigorously scrutinize spending, find efficiencies within the existing budget, and prioritize investments in the essential services that residents depend on every day. The goal is to control costs and ease the burden on taxpayers, not just continue raising rates.

Nurmaiya Brady: No response.

Rob Fediuk: No response.

Ali Haymour: extremely high, Edmonton is currently facing a significant $1.5 billion capital funding shortfall, along with a growing operating deficit. Much of this funding gap is being addressed through property taxes. But as we all know, one of the biggest factors that affects those taxes is the rising cost of housing. We’ve seen it happen elsewhere, housing prices in Ontario have soared to over a million dollars on average. Calgary homes are now reaching $600,000 to $700,000. And while Edmonton’s housing prices remain more affordable for now, history tells us it’s only a matter of time before we see similar increases here. Why does this matter? Because as home values rise, so do property taxes. And that puts a growing burden on seniors, people with disabilities living on fixed incomes, and hardworking families, some working two or even three jobs, just to keep food on the table. In an already unstable economy, I believe much of this pressure is the result of poor decisions by previous city leadership: repeated tax hikes, questionable spending, and a lack of accountability. Edmontonians deserve better. That’s why I’m running to bring a more responsible, transparent, and community-focused approach to City Hall, one that puts people first. My goal is to ensure that taxes stay low, that public funds are managed wisely, and that every Edmontonian can continue to afford to live, work, and raise a family in this great city.

Erin Rutherford: No response.

Aggripa Wajo: I believe property taxes are too high and keeps increasing. It is time to put cap and freeze property taxes to put money back into the pockets of Edmontonians. My position on these have always been that.

Jesse Watson: No response.

Ward 3 (tastawiyiniwak)

1 To Be Elected

Fidel Ammar: No response.

Farhan Chak: Yes, considerably high. Unacceptable.

Jimmy Clement Idi: I believe property taxes in Edmonton are too high for many residents. While taxes fund essential services, there must be a balance so homeowners and renters can afford to live here. I will work to ensure property taxes are fair, transparent, and used efficiently to deliver high-quality services that benefit all Edmontonians.

Jennifer Porritt: No response.

Karen Principe: No response.

Ward 4 (Dene)

1 To Be Elected

Paul Brake: No response.

Albert Mazzocca: No response.

Lana Palmer: No response.

Aaron Paquette: No response.

Banisha Sandhu: No response.

Jean Pierre Valois: No response.

Ward 5 (O-day'min)

1 To Be Elected

David Aaron: I would advocate for a freeze on raising property taxes. Council has been spending money without fully considering the impact on Edmonton’s residents, especially seniors and those on fixed incomes. Increasing property taxes places additional financial pressure on seniors who wish to remain in their homes as they age, potentially forcing them to sell and move elsewhere. We need to prioritize responsible spending and support our community’s most vulnerable residents.

Stephen Hammerschmidt: No response.

James Miller: I would like to see some comparisons between what Edmonton is spending on a per capita basis and other cities are spending, with Calgary being a case in point. Edmonton firefighters have highlighted the issue of the lack of support they have received compared to Calgary and the difference they note is striking. Are we getting the best value for our tax dollar? If not, why not?

Lee Permann: No response.

Adil Pirbhai: No response.

Anand Benjamin Pye: No response.

Anne Stevenson: No response.

Patrick Stewart: No response.

Mulugeta (Mully) Tesfay: No response.

Ward 6 (Métis)

1 To Be Elected

Abdulhakim Dalel: No response.

James Gosse: Property taxes are too high. Year after year increases have outpaced what many families and seniors can afford, and service quality has not kept pace. I support a two year pause on residential property tax increases while we get our house in order.

Caroline Matthews: No response.

Norm Paradis: Property taxes are to high and we won’t see any reprieve any time soon if we don’t change how things are done

Ashley Salvador: No response.

Justin Thomas: Property taxes are too high because the City of Edmonton became overly ambitious, taking on responsibilities that belong to the provincial and federal governments. As a result, we are now spending hundreds of millions of dollars each year on housing and climate change policies without any tangible results to show for it. The City of Edmonton needs to stay in its lane and focus on prividing core services.

Ward 7 (sipiwiyiniwak)

1 To Be Elected

Bassam Fares: No response.

Darrell Friesen: No response.

Giselle Quezon General: Many residents feel that taxes are rising faster than their ability to keep up. What matters most is value for money: if residents can clearly see results in their neighbourhoods, they’re more willing to support the investment which is what I have heard at the doors. I believe Council must be more disciplined in managing budgets so residents feel confident their dollars are spent responsibly, and I think this can be achieved by the new process of zero-based budgeting this council term.

Danny Heikkinen: I suspect our current tax levels may be too high or simply unjustified. The only way to know for sure is through a clear, comprehensive audit - one that tells us whether we're collecting the right amount, too much, or even too little. My instinct says we're over-collecting, not because we need more revenue, but because we're spending inefficiently. An audit could reveal opportunities to streamline operations and improve fiscal discipline. From there, we could explore longer-term tax freezes or gradual reductions - keeping rates at a level that’s genuinely reasonable and backed by transparent data the public can trust.

Roger Kotch: Extremely too high and it's impacting seniors on fixed pensions and home owners alike.

Thu Parmar: No response.

Ken Ropcean: No response.

Ward 8 (papastew)

1 To Be Elected

Joshua Doyle: No response.

Mark Hillman: Too high. I believe our out of control spending has facilitated the "need" to raise our property taxes to where they are now. That said I am focused on getting us value for those taxes.

Terrie Holgerson: No response.

Rozalia Janiszewska: Too low

Michael Janz: No response.

Ward 9 (pihêsiwin)

1 To Be Elected

Sara Awatta: No response.

Michael Elliott: I believe property taxes in Edmonton are too high, especially when you consider the financial pressures many families and small businesses are already facing. However, I also recognize that simply cutting taxes is not a quick or easy fix. With the city expanding at an unprecedented rate and population growth putting more demand on infrastructure and services, we’re facing real financial pressure. That’s why my focus will be on responsible fiscal management — working to keep taxes stable, ideally rising no more than the rate of inflation, while protecting essential services. We need to take a hard look at spending, eliminate waste, and ensure we’re getting value for every tax dollar. This means focusing on needs over wants, streamlining operations, and holding the City accountable for its budget decisions. Reducing taxes may be a long-term goal, but in the short term, I’ll fight to maintain balance, keep increases reasonable, and push back on unnecessary spending that drives up costs for residents.

Mohammad Ali Kamal: No response.

Larry Langley: Far to high

Jackie Liu: I think that Edmontonians need greater value from their tax dollars.

Rupesh Patel: They are definitely too high, but my bigger concern is we're not getting value for money. We need to make sure we don't pass problems down the line and take care of critical issues as they come, otherwise a future council will have to raise property taxes as well.

Ward 10 (Ipiihkoohkanipiaohtsi)

1 To Be Elected

Ramey Demian: Property taxes are too high relative to the level of services delivered. As a broker and as a member of the ARB, I have seen how even a modest tax increase can push a household’s budget over the edge or add unfair pressure to a local business. Many residents feel they pay more every year but see broken sidewalks, late snow clearing, and declining service quality. Taxes should be tied to efficiency and fairness, not simply increasing year after year without accountability.

Beth Mathison: No response.

Jon Morgan: As noted above, affordability is a huge issue this election and I'm hearing taxes are the #1 issue that keeps coming up at the doors for me from residents. We need to ensure that people can stay in their homes and I'm committed to seeing increases that match or are lower than the rate of inflation. I'm a public servant. I believe in a strong public service that needs to be protected. I also want Edmontonians to be able to afford to stay in their homes. Moving forward, we'll need to get creative with our funding models within the city. That likely will include funding arrangements with other orders of government but also some increased accountability, better planning, and coordination of our major infrastructure builds and an appreciation for operational funding of those projects.

Fahad Mughal: Property taxes are at a record high level and unnessary spending should be stopped immediately.

Funke Olokude: No response.

Nicholas Rheubottom: Many households feel squeezed by rising taxes. My focus is ensuring taxpayers see clear value for money. The City must tighten its belt, prioritize spending, and demonstrate real efficiency before asking residents for more.

Jennifer Rice: No response.

Ward 11 (Karhiio)

1 To Be Elected

Jason Bale: Too high.

Manny Bautista: No response.

Joti Buttar: Property taxes are too high, especially given the quality of services residents are receiving. The increases have come too fast and hit too many people at once making it hard for seniors on fixed incomes and families already managing higher living costs. Residents deserve better value for what they pay. We need to manage the City’s budget more responsibly, reduce wasteful spending, and focus on essentials like roads, safety, and core infrastructure. Taxpayers shouldn’t feel burdened while still questioning where their money is going accountability and efficiency must come first.

Yogesh Garg: No response.

Hali Kaur: No response.

Paul Mah: No response.

Atiq Rehman: No response.

Avinash Soochit: No response.

Keren Tang: No response.

Ward 12 (Sspomitapi)

1 To Be Elected

Imran Bashir: No response.

Annie Chua-Frith: Many residents feel the weight of rising property taxes, especially when they don’t see a clear return in the form of reliable services or infrastructure improvements. I believe the issue isn’t just about whether taxes are too high or too low—it’s about whether they’re being used effectively, transparently, and in ways that reflect community priorities. We need to ensure that every dollar is accounted for and contributes to long-term value. That means improving service delivery, cutting inefficiencies, and making budgeting decisions with public input. If residents are paying more, they deserve to see better roads, cleaner neighborhoods, safer communities, and inclusive public spaces. As a candidate, I’m committed to fiscal responsibility and transparent governance. I’ll advocate for smarter spending, clearer communication, and budgeting that reflects both practical needs and community values—so that property taxes feel fair, purposeful, and accountable.

Harman Singh Kandola: Property taxes in Edmonton are too high. Over the past four years, residents have seen increases of about 28 percent, and council is already talking about raising them even more. Families and small businesses are paying more and more while feeling like they are getting less in return. Roads are in poor condition, transit is unreliable, and safety remains a top concern. I believe we cannot keep asking Edmontonians to carry a heavier tax burden without fixing the basics first. Instead, we need smart budgeting, stronger financial discipline, and clear priorities. If we focus spending on core services and cut waste, we can both ease the burden on taxpayers and improve the quality of life in our city. As councillor, I will work to make sure every dollar is spent wisely and that City Hall is accountable to the people who pay the bills.

Sukhi Randhawa: No response.

Sandeep Singh: No response.

Ashok Sui: No response.

Steve van Diest: Edmontonians are paying some of the highest taxes in the country, not because services have improved, but because of mismanagement of the public purse. City council has taken on too much debt through high capital expenditures, leaving us nearly $5 billion in the red and paying $400 million each year just in interest. Instead of focusing on core services, council continues to spend on costly projects that don’t reflect the priorities of residents. We need to get back to fiscal responsibility, manage the budget like a household, and ensure every tax dollar is spent wisely.

Jo-Anne Wright: No response.

Ward 1 (Nakota Isga)

1 To Be Elected

Reed Clarke: No response.

Nicky Gocuan: No response.

Rajah Maggay: No response.

Joseph Mugodo: I would advocate for the City to increase spending but by less than the combined rate of inflation and population growth over the next four years.This approach is rooted in my commitment to fiscal discipline and is not about making absolute cuts to essential services, but about demanding and achieving greater efficiency. For too long, the City has allowed spending to spiral, resulting in high taxes and poor core service delivery. My plan involves a line-by-line review to eliminate wasteful expenditures and reallocate those resources. This will be a tedious and perhaps bothersome process for the "old guard" who may be incentivized to maintain the status quo but it is a crucial first step in achieving fiscal sanity and discipline. It is high-time City Hall realize it is not their money that is being mispent and mismanaged, this is the money of the people who voted them in. A comprehensive and unflinching audit process will be the first step in establishing savings and efficiencies across non-core departments to properly fund essential services like roads, snow clearing, and transit. By actively managing costs and demanding greater value from every dollar spent, we can limit the burden on taxpayers while simultaneously improving the quality of the services that matter most. This choice prioritizes efficiency and accountability over simply increasing the spending base.

Diana Steele: I don’t yet have a definitive stance on this issue, as I’m actively researching best practices and exploring solutions tailored to Edmonton’s unique needs.

Jordon Woodruff: No response.

Ward 2 (Anirniq)

1 To Be Elected

Ali Al Kassab: The City should aim to increase spending by less than the rate of inflation and population growth. This approach is necessary to restore fiscal discipline without imposing drastic cuts. It forces a needed conversation about priorities requiring the City to find efficiencies, streamline operations, and focus every dollar on its core responsibilities. By budgeting smarter, we can control the tax burden on families and businesses while still making strategic investments in the services that matter most.

Nurmaiya Brady: No response.

Rob Fediuk: No response.

Ali Haymour: I believe in smart spending that shows real results. It’s time to bring common sense back to government. We’ll cut wasteful spending, invest in productivity, and make every tax dollar count. By upgrading technology and using real-time data, we’ll shine a light on corruption and inefficiency ensuring transparency, oversight, and accountability. I believe its time to reform how government spends, by prioritizing what matters most to taxpayers. That means: Stronger penalties for delayed public projects Open, competitive bidding for government contracts locally and globally Using in-house experts instead of wasting millions on outside consultants Empowering frontline workers with training and tools to make fast, effective decisions With a smarter, streamlined approach, we can identify the 20% of activities causing 80% of the waste and cut them. This isn’t about cuts for the sake of cuts. It’s about investing where it matters and delivering results the people can see and feel. Let’s make your money work smarter for a government that works better.

Erin Rutherford: No response.

Aggripa Wajo: Inflation and population growth have always been factors to be considered. As the population increases so is the cost increase in social services. However, the rate of inflation affects the government's ability to raise funds and financce social services. Therefore, over the next four years city spending will be determined by the rate of inflation and growth both in population and the economy that will affect the city's abiligty to finance the services needed to meet the demand of the growing population. So, the city's spending will increase according to the rate of inflation and population growth.

Jesse Watson: No response.

Ward 3 (tastawiyiniwak)

1 To Be Elected

Fidel Ammar: No response.

Farhan Chak: City Hall’s budgets keep growing — but residents aren’t seeing better services. That must change. Over the next four years, I believe the City should limit spending increases to below the rate of inflation and population growth. That means tightening waste, cutting duplication, and focusing every tax dollar on what truly matters — roads, safety, transit, and affordability. We don’t need reckless cuts. We need responsible management that prioritizes results, not rhetoric. As councillor, I’ll fight for transparency, audits of underperforming programs, and spending that delivers real value to taxpayers. Because Edmonton doesn’t have a revenue problem — it has a spending problem.

Jimmy Clement Idi: The City should aim to increase spending by the rate of inflation and population growth. This ensures that services keep pace with the needs of a growing city while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Prioritizing core services like housing, transit, snow removal, and public safety ensures residents see tangible benefits from municipal investments.

Jennifer Porritt: No response.

Karen Principe: No response.

Ward 4 (Dene)

1 To Be Elected

Paul Brake: No response.

Albert Mazzocca: No response.

Lana Palmer: No response.

Aaron Paquette: No response.

Banisha Sandhu: No response.

Jean Pierre Valois: No response.

Ward 5 (O-day'min)

1 To Be Elected

David Aaron: Over the next four years, I believe the City should aim to either keep spending flat or increase it only slightly, in line with inflation and population growth. The City budget has already increased by $600 million over the last four years, yet residents are not seeing a corresponding improvement in services. The City needs to stop continuously increasing spending and relying on taxpayers to cover the rising costs. We should focus on reigning in spending, limiting growth primarily to inner-city development, and preventing unchecked urban sprawl. This approach will help ensure that services are sustainable and effectively delivered without placing undue financial pressure on residents, especially those on fixed incomes. Thoughtful, responsible budgeting is essential to building a stronger and more affordable Edmonton.

Stephen Hammerschmidt: No response.

James Miller: I favor increases based on inflation and population growth but also hope we can find ways to reduce spending.

Lee Permann: No response.

Adil Pirbhai: No response.

Anand Benjamin Pye: No response.

Anne Stevenson: No response.

Patrick Stewart: No response.

Mulugeta (Mully) Tesfay: No response.

Ward 6 (Métis)

1 To Be Elected

Abdulhakim Dalel: No response.

James Gosse: Spend less in absolute terms. Residents are paying more while core services lag. The City should cut non essential spending and refocus on basics. Large bills for bike lanes, art and culture projects, and other pet initiatives feel out of touch when taxes keep rising and service quality slips. How I would approach it • Freeze new discretionary projects unless they are safety critical, legally required, or have a clear return on investment • Protect and improve essentials first: transit safety, roads and sidewalks, snow clearing, waste, water, parks, bylaw and policing support • Find efficiencies: value for money audits, tighter procurement, contract re bidding, vacancy management for non front line roles, overtime control, and software and fleet cost reviews • Strengthen capital discipline: stage gates, independent cost checks, life cycle costing, and cancel or scale back projects that miss targets • Be transparent: set public service targets and publish a quarterly scorecard so residents can see progress • Use partnerships: pursue provincial and federal grants for housing and infrastructure to reduce the burden on property taxpayers

Caroline Matthews: No response.

Norm Paradis: I think the city should take a good hard look at the budget and start cancelling projects that aren’t started yet that are not absolutely necessary.

Ashley Salvador: No response.

Justin Thomas: The City is approaching $5 billion in debt, and servicing that debt was already the second-largest expense in 2024. If we do not slow down on multi-billion-dollar capital projects and get our spending under control, debt servicing will soon become the largest expense—and that will mean fewer and lower-quality services for residents.

Ward 7 (sipiwiyiniwak)

1 To Be Elected

Bassam Fares: No response.

Darrell Friesen: No response.

Giselle Quezon General: Spending must reflect growth and inflation pressures, but not automatically. Each budget cycle should start with a review of what is working, what is not, and where efficiencies can be found, which can be achieved by the new process of zero-based budgeting this council term. My priority is ensuring essential services are not compromised. The City is growing fast, which means more roads to be cleared, more trash to be collected, more business and building permits to process and need for bus routes, police, fire serves and more that cover more ground. Once that baseline is achieved, is to keep spending increases only to keep up with population growth and inflation.

Danny Heikkinen: I believe spending should increase in line with population growth - but only when it's clear that doing so will maintain or improve service delivery. For instance, if we currently spend $5,000 per person on public services, and population growth means we need to raise that to $5,500 to preserve service quality, then that adjustment is justified. However, we must be cautious not to push spending beyond the point where additional funding becomes counterproductive. Think of it like a bell curve: there's an optimal zone where funding and service delivery are at their peak. Spend too little, and services decline. Spend too much, and the returns diminish - sometimes even harming efficiency. Striking that balance is challenging, no doubt. But what concerns me is that I don’t see this kind of nuanced thinking reflected in our council or within my ward.

Roger Kotch: Curtail ridiculous spending and create an economic free zone to attract innovation and technology. The city can initiate projects whereby they capitalize on the outcomes and create new revenue streams to avoid always raising taxes.

Thu Parmar: No response.

Ken Ropcean: No response.

Ward 8 (papastew)

1 To Be Elected

Joshua Doyle: No response.

Mark Hillman: I believe we need to halt spending increases and get some of the projects we have on our capital expenditure budget off the books. The issue is we are committing to too many pet projects that run late and are over budget. They all have various reasons btu I want to be responsible so we do not have to worry about the operating budget and our core services.

Terrie Holgerson: No response.

Rozalia Janiszewska: Increase by the rate of inflation and population growth

Michael Janz: No response.

Ward 9 (pihêsiwin)

1 To Be Elected

Sara Awatta: No response.

Michael Elliott: I believe the City should aim to increase spending at the rate of inflation and population growth — no more, no less. With Edmonton’s population growing rapidly, there’s no question that demand for core services like transit, road maintenance, policing, waste management, and infrastructure is also increasing. But we have to be realistic and responsible. Spending beyond that rate isn’t sustainable, and spending below it risks falling behind on the basic services people rely on every day. This approach strikes the right balance: it allows the City to meet the needs of a growing population without putting undue pressure on taxpayers. My priority will be to ensure that every dollar is spent wisely and that our budget reflects needs over wants, focusing on core services, efficiency, and accountability.

Mohammad Ali Kamal: No response.

Larry Langley: The COE needs to spend less in absolute terms, cuts must be made in a number of areas that are simply not essential. There may be a slight increase in year one as projects already committed to are abandoned likely with penalties. The current situation is simply not sustainable

Jackie Liu: The target should be to increase spending proportional to population growth.

Rupesh Patel: I'm hopeful we can maintain or shrink the budget by focusing on the basic core services first. We do need to find additional tax revenue and growing our industrial and commercial base is one way of doing so.

Ward 10 (Ipiihkoohkanipiaohtsi)

1 To Be Elected

Ramey Demian: I would love to say this question has a simple answer, but the truth is the City has fallen behind in providing the basic services Edmontonians expect. Before we can talk about growth, we need to catch up on essentials like road repairs, sidewalk maintenance, snow clearing, and reliable transit. The basic answer for now is to spend where there is a genuine need, but overall we must cut the wasteful spending that residents see and feel on a regular basis. Spending should never outpace inflation and population growth, and in many areas, it should be reduced. The priority is to get value out of every tax dollar, focus on core services, and make the City live within its means.

Beth Mathison: No response.

Jon Morgan: Increase by the rate of inflation and population growth.

Fahad Mughal: We need to look at streamlining process to save money and generate more income. As mentioned above, city council and city management's salaries should be reduced. A 90 day plan should follow by looking at stafging levels, service levels, addressing red tape. Employing technology, AI and automation to save further cost.

Funke Olokude: No response.

Nicholas Rheubottom: Spending should grow responsibly, ideally below inflation and population growth while we get back on track. By finding efficiencies and focusing on essentials, we can sustain services without adding more pressure to residents already facing affordability challenges.

Jennifer Rice: No response.

Ward 11 (Karhiio)

1 To Be Elected

Jason Bale: They need to spend more in accordance with new assessment growth.

Manny Bautista: No response.

Joti Buttar: Edmonton needs smarter spending, not bigger budgets. We must prioritize essential services roads, safety, transit, and infrastructure — and cut back on unnecessary projects or layers of bureaucracy that don’t directly benefit residents. By managing resources wisely and focusing on quality over quantity, we can maintain strong service levels without overburdening taxpayers. The goal should be financial discipline paired with better results doing more with what we already have, not simply spending more.

Yogesh Garg: No response.

Hali Kaur: No response.

Paul Mah: No response.

Atiq Rehman: No response.

Avinash Soochit: No response.

Keren Tang: No response.

Ward 12 (Sspomitapi)

1 To Be Elected

Imran Bashir: No response.

Annie Chua-Frith: Over the next four years, I believe the City should increase spending—but only in line with the rate of inflation and population growth. This approach reflects fiscal responsibility while recognizing that Edmonton is growing and evolving. As our population increases and costs rise, maintaining service levels and infrastructure quality requires thoughtful investment—not unchecked expansion, and not austerity that erodes public trust. That said, spending must be purposeful, transparent, and tied to measurable outcomes. I will advocate for budgeting that prioritizes core services, community well-being, and long-term value. We must eliminate inefficiencies, ensure public input, and invest in programs that reflect the diversity and needs of our city—without placing undue burden on taxpayers. Smart growth means doing more with what we have, and making sure every dollar contributes to a city that works for everyone.

Harman Singh Kandola: Over the next four years, the City should reduce spending in real terms. That means holding the line on costs so that spending grows slower than inflation and population growth. Right now, Edmonton households and small businesses are stretched thin. Property taxes have already increased by about 28 percent in recent years, and residents cannot afford for City Hall to keep growing faster than their ability to pay. The problem is not that Edmontonians are under-taxed, it is that City Hall has not been disciplined enough with the dollars it already collects. Too often money is spent on new initiatives while the basics like road maintenance, transit reliability, and snow clearing are neglected. As councillor, I will push for smarter budgeting, a focus on efficiency, and clear priorities. By respecting taxpayers and focusing spending on core services, we can deliver better value for residents without constant tax hikes.

Sukhi Randhawa: No response.

Sandeep Singh: No response.

Ashok Sui: No response.

Steve van Diest: We need to spend less and focus more on reducing our current debt. We cannot continue spending with a 400 million per year interest payment. That money can be used for many other purposes in the city. We need to focus on our needs and not the wants of a small group of people.

Jo-Anne Wright: No response.

Ward 1 (Nakota Isga)

1 To Be Elected

Reed Clarke: No response.

Nicky Gocuan: No response.

Rajah Maggay: No response.

Joseph Mugodo: The current practice of finding "savings" only to redirect them into reserves for other, often discretionary, spending is a fundamental failure of accountability. When a budget line is underspent, the savings belong to the taxpayers, not to the bureaucracy to fuel further spending. If there is a legitimate, verifiable surplus at the end of the fiscal year, I champion a three-part allocation strategy to ensure fiscal discipline and return value directly to the residents: Taxpayer Rebate/Credit (Accountability): A significant portion of the surplus must be returned to residents through a direct rebate or a property tax credit the following year. This provides immediate, tangible financial relief and holds City Hall accountable for accurate budgeting, discouraging the practice of intentionally inflating budget requests. Targeted Core Service Enhancement (Access to Essentials): A secondary portion should be immediately earmarked for a transparent, publicly stated one-time investment to enhance critical core services that have been chronically neglected. This funding would target key areas like fixing the road repair backlog, purchasing better snow clearing equipment, or improving transit safety and efficiency, thereby increasing resident access to essential goods and services. Prudent Reserve Maintenance (Stability): A smaller, fixed percentage should be allocated to maintaining a prudent stabilization reserve. This ensures the City is financially resilient and protected against unforeseen events, such as catastrophic weather or sudden cuts in provincial funding, without needing to raise property taxes in an emergency. This balanced approach prioritizes the taxpayer, improves daily quality of life, and maintains strategic financial stability.

Diana Steele: Given Edmonton’s $5 billion deficit and $400 million annual interest payments, any leftover money at the end of the financial year should not be automatically returned to taxpayers through a rebate. Unfortunately.

Jordon Woodruff: No response.

Ward 2 (Anirniq)

1 To Be Elected

Ali Al Kassab: Savings identified in the budget should be treated as the taxpayers' money, first and foremost. My position is that the default action should be to return a significant portion of any proven, year-end surplus directly to taxpayers through a rebate or credit. Reserve funds are crucial for emergencies and long-term capital projects, but simply moving savings into reserves to enable new spending undermines public trust and fails to provide real tax relief. A responsible approach is to establish a clear policy: a majority of any genuine, year-end surplus is returned to citizens, with the remainder dedicated to debt reduction or critical, one-time infrastructure needs. This ensures fiscal discipline and respects the taxpayers who funded the surplus.

Nurmaiya Brady: No response.

Rob Fediuk: No response.

Ali Haymour: If there is an Edmonton city department that shows there is money left over at the end of the year, we need to take a serious look at why that surplus exists. Was the budget inflated? Were projects delayed or overestimated? True fiscal responsibility means ensuring that taxpayers aren't being overcharged in the first place. I believe there should be a clear policy: if there’s a genuine surplus money that wasn’t needed because of efficiencies or responsible management then yes, that money should either be returned to taxpayers through a rebate or used to reduce the following year’s tax burden. At the very least, any surplus should be transparently reported and its use debated openly with public input not quietly funneled into pet projects behind closed doors. The city needs to stop treating taxpayer dollars like a blank cheque. Every dollar saved should have a clear purpose, and taxpayers deserve to know exactly how it’s being used or better yet, see it back in their pockets.

Erin Rutherford: No response.

Aggripa Wajo: Savings in various budget lines is great for the city. Ideally, the savings should be saved up by the city to spent in the years ahead. Instead of increasing property taxes the saved over money should be spent on city programs that is to be financed by money coming in from property taxes, thereby reducing or freezing property taxes altogether. Saved up money should be a great way of lifting the overburdened population from the taxes already levied on them. It is a relief and as a councillor I will support the use of that money in future spending to reduce taxes especially propery taxes.

Jesse Watson: No response.

Ward 3 (tastawiyiniwak)

1 To Be Elected

Fidel Ammar: No response.

Farhan Chak: When City Hall claims it’s found “savings,” too often that money just gets parked in a reserve account — and spent later on something else. That’s not discipline; that’s delay. I believe savings should mean exactly that — money kept in the hands of Edmontonians. As your councillor, I’ll push for: 1. An independent audit of all City reserve funds. 2. A cap on surplus transfers without council debate. 3. An automatic taxpayer rebate or credit when genuine savings are achieved. We can’t tax families more each year while City Hall quietly stockpiles your money. Fiscal responsibility means transparency — and returning savings to the people who earned them.

Jimmy Clement Idi: I believe leftover municipal funds should be saved and managed responsibly rather than returned automatically to taxpayers. Maintaining reserves provides the City with flexibility to respond to emergencies, invest in long-term infrastructure, and stabilize budgets during economic fluctuations. At the same time, transparency is essential, and residents should know how surplus funds are being used to benefit the community.

Jennifer Porritt: No response.

Karen Principe: No response.

Ward 4 (Dene)

1 To Be Elected

Paul Brake: No response.

Albert Mazzocca: No response.

Lana Palmer: No response.

Aaron Paquette: No response.

Banisha Sandhu: No response.

Jean Pierre Valois: No response.

Ward 5 (O-day'min)

1 To Be Elected

David Aaron: The City should prioritize responsible spending by identifying and trimming unnecessary costs, while also building genuine savings. This approach ensures that we don’t shift the burden of mismanagement and mistakes onto taxpayers, who are already facing rising costs and financial pressures. This reflects a lack of strong leadership from City Council. From an early age, I learned from my parents that when undertaking projects—especially when the city’s council is inexperienced—costs tend to overrun. That’s why having a contingency fund is necessary for unforeseen expenses or emergencies.

Stephen Hammerschmidt: No response.

James Miller: I favor the city keeping any reserves they have while also working towards a balanced budget that runs neither a deficit or surplus.

Lee Permann: No response.

Adil Pirbhai: No response.

Anand Benjamin Pye: No response.

Anne Stevenson: No response.

Patrick Stewart: No response.

Mulugeta (Mully) Tesfay: No response.

Ward 6 (Métis)

1 To Be Elected

Abdulhakim Dalel: No response.

James Gosse: I support returning surpluses to taxpayers, but only after we get our financial house in order. My approach • First, meet legal obligations and pay down debt until the City is running a consistent, structural surplus • Second, top up a modest stabilization reserve so emergencies do not trigger sudden tax hikes • Third, invest any remaining priority backlog in core services only, not new discretionary projects • Finally, when those conditions are met, automatically credit remaining year-end surpluses to taxpayers on the next bill as a rate stabilization rebate This prevents “slush funds,” strengthens the balance sheet, protects essentials, and ensures any extra dollars go back to residents.

Caroline Matthews: No response.

Norm Paradis: That is a tough question. A lot would depend on how much money and if the future spending was a need or a want. A need use the money. A want, return money to taxpayers.

Ashley Salvador: No response.

Justin Thomas: Considering we are paying over $400 million a year to service the debt—the city’s second-largest expense—we should focus on paying it down instead of letting it grow.

Ward 7 (sipiwiyiniwak)

1 To Be Elected

Bassam Fares: No response.

Darrell Friesen: No response.

Giselle Quezon General: Reserves serve a purpose such for emergencies, infrastructure renewal, and unforeseen costs. But I share the concern that “savings” often get redirected without clarity. I’ve seen at times when the city has dipped into that reserve appropriately, as a simple example, to boost snow clearing so residents can safety walk around in the winter to get to transit station on a year with plenty of freeze-thaw cycles. But everyday people don’t always get that detail. I support clearer policies on surpluses: some should go to reserves for long-term stability, some should go towards paying off debt faster, but Council must also be transparent about whether and how funds could return to taxpayers,.

Danny Heikkinen: With $4.4 billion in debt, any unspent funds would be better directed toward paying down the principal. This would help lower our annual interest payments and ease the long-term financial burden. If an audit reveals that we've been overspending or misallocating resources, then we should reduce taxes accordingly - while still maintaining the revenue levels we’ve projected in our budget. By combining these two strategies—responsible debt reduction and smarter taxation—we can make significant strides in strengthening our financial position and relieving pressure on taxpayers.

Roger Kotch: Firstly we must pay back the debt we owe from overspending and become a city of strength, not weakness. By paying interest on a huge debt only restricts our ability to allocate funds to services.

Thu Parmar: No response.

Ken Ropcean: No response.

Ward 8 (papastew)

1 To Be Elected

Joshua Doyle: No response.

Mark Hillman: we are 4.6 billion in debt. That represents roughly 11% of the property taxes that every Edmontonian pays each year. If there is extra left over we need to address this so we become less reliant on property taxes and therefore can stop the constant tax increases.

Terrie Holgerson: No response.

Rozalia Janiszewska: Should be saved up by the city to spend in future years

Michael Janz: No response.

Ward 9 (pihêsiwin)

1 To Be Elected

Sara Awatta: No response.

Michael Elliott: If the City ends the year with surplus funds, that money should be returned to taxpayers — ideally through a tax cut the following year. Too often, we hear about “savings” that get quietly moved into reserve funds, only to be spent on new projects or pet initiatives that weren’t part of the original budget. That’s not true savings — that’s reallocation, and it doesn’t reflect fiscal discipline. Taxpayers are already stretched thin. If the City collects more than it needs, the responsible thing to do is give that money back — not find new ways to spend it. This would also force greater accountability during the budgeting process and prevent over-taxation from becoming the norm. I believe in real transparency, responsible budgeting, and respecting the people who fund this city — the taxpayers.

Mohammad Ali Kamal: No response.

Larry Langley: Ideally it should be returned however the cost of that program may outweigh its benefits. Perhaps a hybrid whereby once a threshold of savings is made it goes back to taxpayers or is used as a credit on their current properties

Jackie Liu: I would look to both pay down our debt load to decrease the debt servicing levels, but also, fill in service gaps that are left over at initial budgeting.

Rupesh Patel: Having managed public budgets at the City, sometimes having carryforwards is helpful to ensure continued progress, particularly in the first few years of a new budget. I think that in the last year of the four year budget, any dollars unspent should be returned to taxpayers. I should say planning a 4 year budget is difficult and even with the best forecasts there are likely to be discrepancies.

Ward 10 (Ipiihkoohkanipiaohtsi)

1 To Be Elected

Ramey Demian: Let me put it this way: if you give me $100 to fix your broken hot water tank and I only spend $60, do you expect me to give you the $40 change back—or should I keep it as a “credit” for next time? The answer is simple. The City takes our money to provide services, and if there is an overage, that money should not be tucked away in a reserve or redirected elsewhere. It should be refunded directly to taxpayers as an overpayment. It makes no sense for the City to place leftover money into reserve accounts while, at the same time, increasing property taxes year after year. That is double-dipping into residents’ pockets. As someone who has worked on the ARB and seen how even small tax hikes can hurt families and businesses, I believe accountability means respecting the taxpayer’s money. Returning surplus funds is not only fair, it also builds trust and shows residents that City Hall is finally putting responsibility first.yes

Beth Mathison: No response.

Jon Morgan: Saved.

Fahad Mughal: A rainy day reserve fund should onky be used in dire need. These funds should not be allocated in to any other activity.

Funke Olokude: No response.

Nicholas Rheubottom: Moderate surpluses should be rolled into reserves for essentials like roads, snow removal, and emergency response. But I also see large surpluses as a red flag: they show poor fiscal management and suggest City Hall is failing to plan properly. Surpluses and deficits alike signal weak budgeting and poor delivery of value.

Jennifer Rice: No response.

Ward 11 (Karhiio)

1 To Be Elected

Jason Bale: Saved and put toward the next year budget to provide tax relief to taxpayers.

Manny Bautista: No response.

Joti Buttar: If there’s money left over at the end of the year, the City should first look at whether essential services are being delivered efficiently before deciding where that money goes. Savings should not automatically be redirected into new spending. A portion should be responsibly saved for future priorities or emergencies, but taxpayers also deserve relief especially after years of steady tax increases. If the City consistently runs surpluses, that’s a sign residents are being overtaxed. In that case, returning some of those funds through a rebate or tax adjustment is fair and helps rebuild public trust in how money is managed.

Yogesh Garg: No response.

Hali Kaur: No response.

Paul Mah: No response.

Atiq Rehman: No response.

Avinash Soochit: No response.

Keren Tang: No response.

Ward 12 (Sspomitapi)

1 To Be Elected

Imran Bashir: No response.

Annie Chua-Frith: If there’s money left over at the end of a financial year, the City has a responsibility to treat those funds with transparency and purpose. I believe surpluses should be evaluated carefully—not automatically spent, and not automatically returned—so we can make decisions that reflect both fiscal responsibility and long-term community benefit. In many cases, saving responsibly in reserve accounts can help stabilize future budgets, fund critical infrastructure, or prepare for emergencies. But reserves should not become a backdoor for discretionary spending without public input or clear outcomes. If the surplus reflects over-taxation or inefficiencies, then returning a portion to taxpayers—through rebates or reduced future increases—should absolutely be considered. As a candidate, I’ll advocate for clearer reporting on budget surpluses, stronger public oversight of reserve funds, and spending decisions that reflect community priorities. Whether saving or returning funds, the guiding principle must be accountability to the people of Edmonton.

Harman Singh Kandola: If there is money left over at the end of a financial year, it should not be treated as a slush fund for new spending. That money belongs to taxpayers. The City should first look at using surpluses to pay down debt or fund true emergencies, but beyond that, the priority should be to return it to residents through tax relief or rebates. Right now, residents are told year after year that taxes must go up, while at the same time City Hall sets aside “savings” that later get spent on new projects. That approach erodes public trust. A surplus should be proof that taxes were set too high in the first place. As councillor, I will push for greater transparency in budgeting and ensure that savings are used responsibly. Taxpayers deserve relief and accountability, not surprise spending after the fact.

Sukhi Randhawa: No response.

Sandeep Singh: No response.

Ashok Sui: No response.

Steve van Diest: We need to look at lower the taxes on the taxpayers and increase the economy and revenue. If everyone mad more the city as a whole would collect more. If we continue on a downward trajectory with our economy we can continue to increase the percentages but would not increase the revenue. Our spending is out of control.

Jo-Anne Wright: No response.

Ward 1 (Nakota Isga)

1 To Be Elected

Reed Clarke: No response.

Nicky Gocuan: No response.

Rajah Maggay: No response.

Joseph Mugodo: For me, affordable housing is housing that costs a household no more than 30% of its gross income. This applies to the entire spectrum, from deeply subsidized supportive housing for the vulnerable to market-rate homes for middle-income working families. I believe the City must pursue a combination of both strategies, but it must use its municipal tools strategically: Systemic Cost Control (Municipal Priority): The most effective role for the City is to address the supply-side bottleneck to stabilize the cost of all housing. We must aggressively streamline the permit process and reduce the regulatory costs and red tape associated with building new, diverse housing options (e.g., infill, row houses, small apartment buildings). By making it faster and cheaper for the private sector and non-profits to build, we boost the overall housing supply and alleviate market pressures that drive up prices for everyone. Targeted Subsidies for the Most Vulnerable (Advocacy and Facilitation Role): We have a moral obligation to ensure housing for our lowest-income residents, especially those affected by the Mental Health and Addiction Crisis. Since the City's property tax revenue is limited, our role here is to be a relentless advocate and facilitator. We must secure necessary funding from the provincial and federal governments for deep subsidies and supportive housing and eliminate municipal fees and accelerate timelines for the non-profits who are ready to build these critical units. This combination uses the City's authority to make the development process efficient and cost-effective, while using a strong, unapologetic voice in inter-governmental relations to ensure provincial and federal funds are secured for the deep subsidies our most vulnerable residents require.

Diana Steele: I don’t yet have a definitive stance on this issue, as I’m actively researching best practices and exploring solutions tailored to Edmonton’s unique needs.

Jordon Woodruff: No response.

Ward 2 (Anirniq)

1 To Be Elected

Ali Al Kassab: Affordable housing" means that everyone who lives and works in Edmonton should be able to find a safe, stable place to live without sacrificing other essentials like food or transportation. The City cannot tackle this alone, but it must be a leader. This requires a dual approach: Targeted Support: The City has a clear role in partnering with other levels of government and non-profits to subsidize and create housing for our most vulnerable residents those with low incomes, seniors on fixed incomes, and those experiencing homelessness. This is a moral and social imperative. Systemic Solutions: Our primary focus must be on fixing the market for everyone by dramatically increasing the supply of housing. This means streamlining approval processes, encouraging a diverse "missing middle" of housing (like townhomes and low-rise apartments), and ensuring our zoning is modern and flexible. More supply is the most effective long-term tool to keep the cost of all housing from getting out of control. It's not an either or choice; we must do both to build a city that is affordable for all.

Nurmaiya Brady: No response.

Rob Fediuk: No response.

Ali Haymour: Affordable housing, for me, means that no Edmontonian should have to choose between paying rent or putting food on the table. It means creating a city where people of all income levels, seniors, students, working families, and those on fixed incomes can find a safe, stable, and affordable place to live. I believe the City needs to take a balanced, common-sense approach and that means doing both: Yes, we should support subsidized housing options for our most vulnerable residents, because a strong city doesn’t leave people behind. But at the same time, we have to address the root issue, which is the rising cost of housing overall. If we don’t increase supply and keep up with demand, we’ll never get ahead. That’s why I believe the City must work collaboratively with the provincial and federal governments, both of which have said they want to return to the kind of rapid housing construction we saw after World War II. Edmonton can't do it alone. We need those partnerships, we need smart planning, and we need to cut red tape that slows down responsible development. If elected, I’ll push for a housing strategy that’s efficient, coordinated, and puts people first with a plan that helps those most in need while also keeping the market stable and affordable for everyone else. Because housing is not just a market issue or a social issue, it’s both. And it's time we start treating it that way.

Erin Rutherford: No response.

Aggripa Wajo: Affordable housing means both subsidized housing for low income families and keeping the cost of all housing from getting out of control. While others may argue that subsidizing housing is not a solution, it is important to note that all residents need housing availability and affordable not only to low income residents. That means the city will have to continue providing affordable housing to edmontonians as the city continues to grow and the pressure for housing continues to increase by building more housing that is affordable for everyone..

Jesse Watson: No response.

Ward 3 (tastawiyiniwak)

1 To Be Elected

Fidel Ammar: No response.

Farhan Chak: “Affordable housing” shouldn’t just be a slogan — it should be a plan. For me, it means ensuring every Edmontonian can find a safe, stable home without being priced out. That requires a balanced approach. Yes, the City should support low-income residents through targeted subsidies and partnerships with non-profits — but we must also reduce red tape and construction delays that drive up housing costs for everyone. As councillor, I’ll champion a “supply + support” strategy: 1. Support the most vulnerable with rent supplements and community housing. 2. Expand the overall housing supply through smarter zoning and faster approvals. 3. Demand accountability to ensure taxpayer dollars actually create homes — not bureaucracy. Let’s make housing affordability real — not just rhetoric.

Jimmy Clement Idi: Affordable housing means all Edmontonians can access safe, stable homes without excessive cost. I support a balanced approach: targeted subsidies for lower-income residents combined with policies to prevent overall housing costs from rising too quickly. This includes encouraging diverse housing types, supporting non-profit and co-op developments, and using planning tools to increase supply and choice. The goal is housing that is accessible, fair, and sustainable for everyone.

Jennifer Porritt: No response.

Karen Principe: No response.

Ward 4 (Dene)

1 To Be Elected

Paul Brake: No response.

Albert Mazzocca: No response.

Lana Palmer: No response.

Aaron Paquette: No response.

Banisha Sandhu: No response.

Jean Pierre Valois: No response.

Ward 5 (O-day'min)

1 To Be Elected

David Aaron: As a lifelong builder and developer, with roots dating back to my family's immigration from Ukraine in 1890 and their integral role in building housing, roads, schools, and churches in Canada, I bring a deep understanding of what it takes to create strong communities. To me, affordable housing means providing quality homes for middle- and low-income families—homes they can genuinely afford and be proud of. I firmly support strategic development along key transit corridors, such as the rail line, where larger multifamily units can efficiently serve our growing population. I believe inner-city development should be thoughtfully managed, with a limit of four units per lot and parking requirements that reflect community needs. Larger developments should require comprehensive community consultations to ensure they align with residents' interests. The City of Edmonton owns land that can be leveraged for affordable housing, and I advocate for conditions that promote co-op housing projects serving both middle- and low-income residents. With extensive experience building multifamily units across Western Canada, I know what works—delivering profitability while ensuring community benefits. I strongly believe the city made a mistake in approving eight units per lot without parking, which undermines safety and livability. As a leader, I am committed to guiding Edmonton toward safer, more affordable, and well-planned development. I am ready to bring decisive leadership to this issue and work collaboratively with residents to build a better city for everyone.

Stephen Hammerschmidt: No response.

James Miller: As a homeless senior on a very limited income, I'm grateful there are programs run by the Greater Edmonton Foundation, Vista and Civida that charge a flat 30 per cent of income for the housing they have available. My issue is that I've been waiting, literally, for years to hear from Civida and Vista and, after a three month wait, a meeting with GEF is scheduled in the first week of October. I'm not sure if they will have anything immediately available or I will have to continue to wait. I'd like for the city to consult with all organizations offering subsidized housing to get a sense from them of where we stand on this issue and how we can help them moving forward as more Edmontonians age and retire of limited incomes. CMHC subsidizes developers to the tune of $2 million dollars, with no money needed from the developer and offers a 50-year mortgage, while requiring that some of the units be available at less than market rates for only 10 years. I'd like the city, if possible, to ensure that one out of eight units built under these generous terms be added to GEF's inventory, with rents being collected going to the owner, less a 20 per cent administrative charge going to GEF. Edmonton's housing is some of the most affordable in the country and the recent dramatic changes in zoning bylaws have tended towards speculation and higher prices. I believe we need to slow that process and reexamine zoning. We need to especially listen to neighborhood concerns.

Lee Permann: No response.

Adil Pirbhai: No response.

Anand Benjamin Pye: No response.

Anne Stevenson: No response.

Patrick Stewart: No response.

Mulugeta (Mully) Tesfay: No response.

Ward 6 (Métis)

1 To Be Elected

Abdulhakim Dalel: No response.

James Gosse: Affordable housing means safe, decent homes that cost about 30% or less of a household’s income and are close to work, school, and transit. I support a combination approach: targeted help for lower-income residents and system-wide steps that keep overall housing costs from running away. How I would do it • Immediate relief: acquire or partner on boarded-up apartment buildings and bring them back as code-compliant, rent-stabilized homes • Developer partnerships: lower fees and fast-track permits only when builders guarantee long-term affordability (for example, 10–15 years) with enforceable covenants • Homeownership pathway: repeal the blanket zoning bylaw that fuels speculation on starter-home lots, so first-time buyers are not priced out by teardown-to-multiplex plays

Caroline Matthews: No response.

Norm Paradis: I think the city can definitely work towards low income rents. Not sure how the city can control private ownership of property.

Ashley Salvador: No response.

Justin Thomas: Housing is a provincial responsibility, and when the City tries to take the lead instead of working as a partner with the provincial and federal governments, it drives up the city budget and ultimately causes property taxes to rise. As a result, seniors, people on fixed incomes, and working families may struggle to afford to stay in their homes. The City should focus on keeping the overall cost of housing from getting out of control.

Ward 7 (sipiwiyiniwak)

1 To Be Elected

Bassam Fares: No response.

Darrell Friesen: No response.

Giselle Quezon General: Affordable housing means ensuring residents of all income levels can find a safe, stable place to live. That includes both: • Supporting nonprofit and community housing providers who help the lowest-income households (ex. Civida, HomeEd, GEF Senious Housing, etc.) • Ensuring regulations and processes don’t drive up costs for all housing, so middle-income families aren’t priced out. (ex. Zoning Bylaw, continuing to make building permits and processes efficient, strategic intense densification builds in mature neighbourhoods where there’s great access to amenities). The City must work with nonprofits, industry, and other orders of government to achieve both.

Danny Heikkinen: I don’t believe we can prevent housing costs from rising without dramatically increasing supply - but flooding the market with new builds simply isn’t feasible. At best, we’re adding around 18,000 units a year, which falls far short of what’s needed to keep pace with population growth. The only practical path to affordable housing is through targeted interventions: subsidized housing and purpose-built rental units managed by organizations like HomeEd. These approaches help keep rental prices stable and allow us to better manage demand while the private market continues to build at its own pace.

Roger Kotch: Many years ago I grew up in the Delton low rentals, this was where it gave us the ability to save and then purchase our first home. This is where I think the city should focus in giving people a hand up to start saving and have an affordable place to live.

Thu Parmar: No response.

Ken Ropcean: No response.

Ward 8 (papastew)

1 To Be Elected

Joshua Doyle: No response.

Mark Hillman: While I believe in affordable housing the city has proven to be grossly inefficient at building it. The cost spent per unit is anything but affordable. I believe in a combination of the two but also being prudent and responsible with the parts we do subsidize. Addressing affordability in the housing market is the surest means of addressing this issue.

Terrie Holgerson: No response.

Rozalia Janiszewska: A combination of both. The city should susbsidize housing for low income residents as well as institute rent controls

Michael Janz: No response.

Ward 9 (pihêsiwin)

1 To Be Elected

Sara Awatta: No response.

Michael Elliott: For me, affordable housing means ensuring that people of all income levels can find safe, stable, and reasonably priced homes in Edmonton — whether they’re seniors on fixed incomes, young families, or working individuals trying to make ends meet. I believe the City needs to take a balanced, realistic approach that includes both short- and long-term strategies. Yes, some level of subsidy is necessary to support our most vulnerable residents — those who are at risk of homelessness or living in unsafe conditions. But subsidies alone aren’t enough. That’s why the City also needs to focus on increasing overall housing supply by making it easier to build — through smarter zoning, reducing red tape, and encouraging partnerships with private and non-profit developers. By increasing supply and streamlining development, we can help prevent prices from spiraling out of reach for everyone. In short, I support a combination of targeted support for those in need, and broader market reforms that help keep housing attainable for all Edmontonians.

Mohammad Ali Kamal: No response.

Larry Langley: Subsidizing housing for lower income residents is important however I disagree with the concept of the COE building these homes. The notion that the COE has an impact on keeping housing costs low is flawed, this subject is impacted by National and International events and we need to realize our role is limited

Jackie Liu: Affordable housing means below-market housing, and as we've historically never seen for-profit developers be willing to take smaller profit margins, that has meant the City has had to provide subsidies or land to support the development of affordable housing. Edmonton can't bear the full cost of this - we need to recruit investment from Federal and Provincial levels to continue to make up this gap. Whenever possible, we should also work with non-profit developers to maximize the impact of these subsidies.

Rupesh Patel: I'm cautious on fully funding housing as it is the Province's responsibility, and they need to take leadership in the area. The City can help reduce greenfield development costs, by reducing cost burdens for developers but ensuring communities still meet safety and sustainability goals.

Ward 10 (Ipiihkoohkanipiaohtsi)

1 To Be Elected

Ramey Demian: For many Edmontonians making minimum wage or just above it, there is no realistic way to afford today’s rental rates or to enter home ownership in the current market. Affordable housing must mean creating real opportunities for these residents—the working force of our city—to secure stable, dignified housing. Without that, families struggle, workers are displaced, and the health of our entire community is affected. I know this firsthand as a real estate broker. I have seen families who are doing their best but cannot keep up with the rising costs of housing. I also witnessed this during my time serving on the Edmonton Assessment Review Board (ARB), where even a small increase in property taxes could take away a family’s ability to put basic groceries and food on their table. These experiences have shown me clearly that we need to work with Edmontonians, not against them. The City cannot solve this issue alone, but it can play an important role in partnership with the Province and non-profit organizations. Together, we can secure homes for those most in need by reducing rents, supporting affordable ownership options, and cutting red tape that slows down new housing supply. These are not handouts—they are investments in a healthier, more stable society where people who work hard can also afford to live here. A strong city is built on strong communities, and ensuring access to affordable housing is one of the most direct ways we can support both.

Beth Mathison: No response.

Jon Morgan: Affordable housing looks different for different folks. The affordable housing needs of seniors is vastly different to the needs of post-secondary students. Access to care is likely prioritized for seniors while a close proximity to schools for students is likely needed a priority for them. Understanding those differences and needs is required moving forward and partnerships with our other levels of government will be beneficial to deliver on those demands.

Fahad Mughal: Open and empty spaces like Blatchford should be given to non profit housing corporations to build real affordable house for qualifing young families. The city should start a drive to build secondary suites in existing detached and duples houses by incentivising permits. A federal govt. Funding is already available for this purpose. This will bring increase the supply of rental units in market and bring the rent down.

Funke Olokude: No response.

Nicholas Rheubottom: Affordable housing is not just a talking point for me, it is my field of work. I have seen firsthand how critical it is to families and how difficult it can be for cities to deliver on their own. For me, affordable housing means ensuring working families and vulnerable residents have stable options without putting an unsustainable burden on taxpayers. Edmonton cannot carry the entire load, and the province and federal government must do more to fund housing more broadly. That allows the City to target its resources where they will have the most impact. At the municipal level, we should also cut red tape and leverage partnerships with the private sector through mixed-market projects. These approaches expand housing supply, protect taxpayers, and create lasting affordability by combining public investment with market-driven solutions.

Jennifer Rice: No response.

Ward 11 (Karhiio)

1 To Be Elected

Jason Bale: We have to worry about both affordable housing and housing affordability. Grow our residential and non-residential tax base, gentle sprawl, and stop our reliance on developers to build affordable housing units. This plan has proven time and again it doesn't work. Let the developers continue to build mid to high end housing at a reasonable rate and engage organizations that specialize in building affordable housing, such as Habitat for Humanity, to ensure a designated number of affordable housing are built and occupied each fiscal year.

Manny Bautista: No response.

Joti Buttar: Affordable housing means ensuring people of all income levels seniors, families, newcomers, and young professionals — can find a safe, stable place to live. I believe the City’s focus should be a balanced approach: supporting lower-income residents through targeted, well-managed subsidies while also addressing overall housing costs by cutting red tape and speeding up permits for builders. The City must plan smarter ensuring development fits neighbourhoods, infrastructure keeps pace, and residents are properly consulted. True affordability comes from efficiency, balance, and fairness not blanket policies that drive up costs or leave communities feeling unheard.

Yogesh Garg: No response.

Hali Kaur: No response.

Paul Mah: No response.

Atiq Rehman: No response.

Avinash Soochit: No response.

Keren Tang: No response.

Ward 12 (Sspomitapi)

1 To Be Elected

Imran Bashir: No response.

Annie Chua-Frith: To me, affordable housing means that every Edmontonian—regardless of income, background, or family structure—can access safe, stable, and dignified housing without sacrificing other basic needs. It’s not just about price points; it’s about livability, accessibility, and long-term security. I believe the City must pursue a balanced approach: both subsidizing housing for lower-income residents and taking proactive steps to keep the overall cost of housing from spiraling out of reach. That means: - Supporting Nonprofit and Culturally Responsive Housing Initiatives: Partnering with organizations that understand the needs of seniors, newcomers, and marginalized communities to deliver housing that’s affordable and inclusive. - Zoning Reform and Smart Density: Updating zoning policies to allow for more diverse housing types—like secondary suites, row housing, and gentle density—while protecting community character and livability. - Transparency in Development and Incentives: Ensuring that public land, grants, and incentives are used strategically to create lasting affordability—not short-term gains for private interests. - Advocating for Intergovernmental Collaboration: Working with provincial and federal partners to secure sustained funding and policy alignment, especially for deeply affordable and supportive housing. Affordable housing is foundational to a thriving city. I’ll advocate for practical, transparent solutions that reflect both fiscal responsibility and compassion—so that Edmonton remains a place where all residents can build a future.

Harman Singh Kandola: For me, affordable housing means ensuring that families, seniors, and young people are not priced out of safe, decent homes in our city. It is not only about subsidized housing, but also about keeping overall housing costs under control so that middle-income families can afford to buy or rent and stay in Edmonton. The City does have a role in supporting lower-income residents, especially the most vulnerable, but subsidies alone will not solve the housing challenge. We also need to make it easier to build the right kinds of housing in the right places, with clear rules, faster approvals, and respect for neighbourhood input. At the same time, the City must ensure that new communities grow with the schools, recreation centres, and infrastructure that families were promised, instead of leaving residents waiting years for basic amenities. I believe the City should focus on removing red tape, prioritizing smart growth, and ensuring taxpayer dollars go to programs that truly help those in need. If we keep costs under control and make better use of the resources we already have, we can support vulnerable residents while keeping Edmonton affordable for everyone.

Sukhi Randhawa: No response.

Sandeep Singh: No response.

Ashok Sui: No response.

Steve van Diest: Affordable housing means… you the tax payer pay and subsidize. The focus must be on making our everyday lives affordable and attainable. We cannot push everyone to the limits working and taking all they earn. A dollar in the hands of a constituent is better spent then a dollar in the government.

Jo-Anne Wright: No response.

Ward 1 (Nakota Isga)

1 To Be Elected

Reed Clarke: No response.

Nicky Gocuan: No response.

Rajah Maggay: No response.

Joseph Mugodo: I view public sector unions as essential and valued partners in the efficient delivery of core services. The City's workforce - its members - are responsible for everything from public safety and road maintenance to transit operation. Their role is vital in advocating for fair wages, safe working conditions, and the training necessary to deliver high-quality public service. However, the necessity of strong union representation must be balanced by the non-negotiable constraint of fiscal responsibility to the taxpayer. My experience as an Area Operations Manager has taught me that strong management involves entering negotiations with a clear, disciplined mandate. To ensure negotiations do not compromise fiscal responsibility, I would take the following steps: Set a Pre-Negotiation Fiscal Mandate: Before bargaining begins, City Council must set a public, binding financial envelope for the total compensation package (including wages, benefits, and pensions). This mandate must directly align with the City's larger responsible budgeting framework, specifically the commitment to limit property tax increases to the rate of inflation. This removes political ambiguity and establishes clear, non-negotiable financial parameters. Shift Negotiations to Productivity and Efficiency: Negotiations must focus on maximizing value for money. Instead of simply accepting cost-of-living adjustments, we must bargain for increased operational efficiency. This includes modernizing work practices, optimizing scheduling and deployment to better serve core services (like faster snow clearing), and investing in cross-training that allows the workforce to adapt to modern municipal needs. Any requested compensation increase must be justified by a corresponding, measurable gain in productivity or service improvement. Apply Zero-Based Budgeting to Labor Costs: We must apply the discipline of zero-based budgeting to the labor line items, requiring a justification for every dollar spent, rather than just accepting a baseline from the previous year. This transparency ensures that labor costs are sustainable, justified, and focused squarely on improving the core services that Edmontonians depend on.

Diana Steele: I don’t yet have a definitive stance on this issue, as I’m actively researching best practices and exploring solutions tailored to Edmonton’s unique needs.

Jordon Woodruff: No response.

Ward 2 (Anirniq)

1 To Be Elected

Ali Al Kassab: I view public sector unions as essential partners in delivering quality city services. They represent the dedicated frontline workers who keep our city running, and their collective voice ensures safe workplaces and fair treatment. The key to negotiations that respect both workers and taxpayers is transparency and long-term planning. My approach would be to: Base Negotiations on Data: Use clear, comparable market data for wages and benefits to ensure agreements are competitive and realistic. Focus on Value: Negotiate for modernized work practices that maintain service quality and improve efficiency, ensuring we get the best value for every dollar spent. Budget with Integrity: Account for long-term contract costs, including pensions and benefits in the city's multi-year budgets from the start, avoiding unexpected fiscal shocks. This disciplined approach fosters a collaborative, rather than adversarial, relationship and upholds our shared commitment to fiscal responsibility.

Nurmaiya Brady: No response.

Rob Fediuk: No response.

Ali Haymour: As a proud member of AUPE and someone who has served as a Chapter Chair and Shop Steward, I deeply respect the role public sector unions play in protecting workers’ rights, ensuring fair wages, and maintaining safe and respectful workplaces. I’ve sat at the table during negotiations and I know firsthand that when we negotiate fairly and in good faith, everyone benefits. I believe public sector workers are the backbone of our city, they keep our streets safe, our water clean, our transit running, and our public services strong. These are not just jobs; they’re essential services that Edmontonians rely on every day. While at the same time, I also recognize the importance of fiscal responsibility. Taxpayers expect us to manage public funds wisely, and that includes being prudent during collective bargaining. But I also believe fiscal responsibility doesn't mean cutting corners or undervaluing the people who do the work. In fact, when workers are paid fairly, they put money back into the local economy which helps to support local businesses, families, and communities. I believe a strong public sector workforce is part of a strong economy. If elected for city councillor, I would advocate for open, respectful, and transparent negotiations, where both sides come to the table committed to finding solutions, not conflict. It's not about, "us vs them" it’s about working together to build a city that works for everyone, including the people who keep it running.

Erin Rutherford: No response.

Aggripa Wajo: Labour rights can only be demanded by the unions. Fair wages and employment standards are the responsility of every institution, however, not all institutions apply these standards fairly. Therefore, the unions demand these standards. I think that is okay, and the need for the instituton and the employees will be kept in the interest of both and the standard be fairly applied without compromizing both responsibilities.

Jesse Watson: No response.

Ward 3 (tastawiyiniwak)

1 To Be Elected

Fidel Ammar: No response.

Farhan Chak: Public sector unions are vital partners in keeping Edmonton running — from transit and waste collection to emergency response. I deeply respect the dedication of our city employees. But respect also means being honest about our fiscal limits. As your councillor, I will ensure that union negotiations are transparent, data-driven, and aligned with Edmonton’s economic reality. Wage increases should reflect affordability, not political convenience. I will advocate for joint City–Union innovation committees to find efficiencies and reinvest savings into frontline services. And I’ll support an independent fiscal responsibility review for all major labour agreements before council approval. My goal is simple: protect the workers who serve Edmonton and the taxpayers who sustain it. Together, we can build a fair, efficient, and sustainable city government.

Jimmy Clement Idi: Public sector unions play an important role in representing workers and ensuring fair treatment in City operations. At the same time, the City must maintain fiscal responsibility for taxpayers. I would support transparent, collaborative negotiations that respect workers while keeping budgets sustainable. This includes careful planning of wages and benefits, exploring efficiencies, and ensuring that agreements align with the City’s long-term financial capacity and service priorities.

Jennifer Porritt: No response.

Karen Principe: No response.

Ward 4 (Dene)

1 To Be Elected

Paul Brake: No response.

Albert Mazzocca: No response.

Lana Palmer: No response.

Aaron Paquette: No response.

Banisha Sandhu: No response.

Jean Pierre Valois: No response.

Ward 5 (O-day'min)

1 To Be Elected

David Aaron: I believe that public sector unions play a vital role in ensuring fair working conditions, fostering a committed and motivated workforce, and maintaining strong, professional public services that residents rely on. Supporting unions is essential for building a positive relationship between employees and the city, which ultimately benefits our community. At the same time, I recognize the importance of responsible fiscal management. I would advocate for open, transparent, and constructive negotiations that balance fair compensation and working conditions with the city's long-term financial sustainability. This includes setting clear parameters for negotiations, engaging in good-faith discussions, and exploring innovative solutions that prioritize both employees' well-being and the fiscal health of the city. My goal is to ensure that our valued public servants are supported while also safeguarding the fiscal responsibility and sustainability of our city’s operations.

Stephen Hammerschmidt: No response.

James Miller: I support unions and the bargaining process, while also being honest and transparent with unions on the city's income and its need to be fiscally responsible. There needs to be give and take from both sides.

Lee Permann: No response.

Adil Pirbhai: No response.

Anand Benjamin Pye: No response.

Anne Stevenson: No response.

Patrick Stewart: No response.

Mulugeta (Mully) Tesfay: No response.

Ward 6 (Métis)

1 To Be Elected

Abdulhakim Dalel: No response.

James Gosse: Public sector unions are essential partners in delivering core services. They protect worker safety, fair pay, and professional standards, and they surface on-the-ground issues that help the City perform better. My job is to respect collective bargaining while safeguarding service quality and taxpayers’ ability to pay. How I would keep negotiations fiscally responsible • Set a clear council-approved bargaining mandate that targets total compensation in line with inflation, market comparators, and productivity gains • Use multi-year agreements with guardrails: wage growth within a CPI band, with reopeners only if inflation moves outside the band • Tie improvements to measurable service outcomes: scheduling reforms, cross-training, technology adoption, and process changes that shorten response times and reduce overtime

Caroline Matthews: No response.

Norm Paradis: I don’t have an answer for that question.

Ashley Salvador: No response.

Justin Thomas: Unions play a vital role in supporting their members and voicing how the City can improve services while keeping spending under control. Frontline workers know best what is working and what is not. We must be fair in negotiations with unions, but we also need to be fair to the taxpayers who ultimately fund these services.

Ward 7 (sipiwiyiniwak)

1 To Be Elected

Bassam Fares: No response.

Darrell Friesen: No response.

Giselle Quezon General: Unions are part of the City’s workforce structure, representing thousands of employees who deliver essential services. Their role is to advocate for fair compensation and safe working conditions. As a councillor, my role is to balance those negotiations with fiscal responsibility to taxpayers. That means ensuring bargaining is transparent, disciplined, and aligned with what residents can afford. And I will do my best to showcase to everyday residents where the spending is going and how will it impact city services.

Danny Heikkinen: I have concerns about unions - particularly public sector unions - when they endorse candidates who uphold the status quo rather than push for meaningful change. To ensure fiscal responsibility isn’t compromised, we need to establish clear service expectations for union members and align wage growth with actual performance and service delivery. While unions play a vital role in protecting workers, they often shield underperformers alongside high achievers. That’s why it’s essential to set transparent standards of accountability that reflect the expectations of taxpayers. Unions must understand that if those standards aren’t met, future negotiations will be far more difficult.

Roger Kotch: Public sector unions are cohesive in setting labour standards and are vital to keeping employment standards at the optimum. Keeping costs down also affects union negotiations at the bargaining table.

Thu Parmar: No response.

Ken Ropcean: No response.

Ward 8 (papastew)

1 To Be Elected

Joshua Doyle: No response.

Mark Hillman: I feel they should play an active role in advocating for our work force. We have to work collaboratively but also be aware of the budget and fiscal responsibility. We cannot compromise fiscal responsibility to appease unions but we also cannot withhold from the unions when presented valid concerns.

Terrie Holgerson: No response.

Rozalia Janiszewska: Generally, public sector unions are beneficial for society and are especially important for public sector employees. I have never heard of a situatuin where public sector union negotations in Edmonton have genuinely compromised fiscal responsibility. I support the role of unions in the workplace

Michael Janz: No response.

Ward 9 (pihêsiwin)

1 To Be Elected

Sara Awatta: No response.

Michael Elliott: Public sector unions play a critical role in ensuring that the people who deliver our core city services — from police and fire to transit and waste management — are treated fairly, work safely, and are compensated appropriately. Having served as President of the Edmonton Police Association and in leadership roles at the provincial and national levels, I have a deep respect for the value unions bring to our workforce and the importance of collaborative labour relations. That said, fiscal responsibility must remain a top priority. Edmonton’s taxpayers expect — and deserve — transparency, fairness, and value for money in all areas of city spending, including compensation and benefits. To ensure union negotiations don’t compromise that, I believe in: 1. Negotiating in good faith while setting clear financial boundaries upfront; 2. Using independent, data-driven analysis to assess affordability and market competitiveness; 3. Encouraging long-term agreements that provide stability for workers and predictability for budgeting; 4. Maintaining open and respectful dialogue — because strong labour relations lead to better outcomes for everyone, including the public. Ultimately, it’s about finding a balance: supporting the people who keep our city running, while protecting the long-term financial health of Edmonton. My experience on both sides of the table gives me the perspective to do just that.

Mohammad Ali Kamal: No response.

Larry Langley: Unions are important, in my experience the COE has been involved in unfair labour practices for many years. While budgets are finite when one looks at the expenditures on consultants and the multitude of management layers I’m not convinced that the greatest savings are to be found dealing with the Unions. I believe that management and consultants along with ‘virtuous’ projects taken on are where the real savings will be made.

Jackie Liu: Unions demand the same accountability as the rest of us on fiscal responsibility of the City, though there is an obvious conflict of interest in the wellness and compensation of their members. I believe workers need to be treated fairly and protected and that public services should be publicly provided, and the line needs to be reflective of objective need of the City and market trends for the work done.

Rupesh Patel: Having led public sector union staff, I've appreciated their dedication and commitment to the City and public service. It would be ideal to have wages tied to inflation at a set rate (e.g. 1.5 or 2%) that we just build into our base budget, so it's more predictable.

Ward 10 (Ipiihkoohkanipiaohtsi)

1 To Be Elected

Ramey Demian: Public sector unions represent thousands of Edmontonians who keep our city running, and I respect the vital work their members do every day. But negotiations must be fair to both workers and taxpayers. My years as a business owner taught me that you cannot sign agreements that outpace inflation and still expect long-term sustainability. I would approach negotiations with transparency and accountability in mind, ensuring that contracts are affordable, services are delivered efficiently, and taxpayers are not left carrying costs beyond what the City can sustain. Fiscal responsibility and fairness must go hand in hand.

Beth Mathison: No response.

Jon Morgan: We need to have a good working relationship with our boots on the ground members. I maintain my independence as a candidate but also have been happy to accept the endorsement of the union that represents some of the workers that directly report to me. This is because I have maintained that good working relationship showing respect to the work they do and the value they bring as workers and colleagues. As a taxpayer, I see immense value in our frontline services and those that deliver them. All of our efforts must be pointed towards the pointy end of the spear, so to speak. Does our work bring value to the city and our communities? Are we helping to progress that work? Are we contributing to what Edmontonians and our workers need? These are the questions that we need to remember as we bring the services we're responsible for to Edmontonians.

Fahad Mughal: Workers deserved fair compensation and benefits. But the salaries and benefits of workers of similar profession should match all level of government. Unions should prepare there members of massive job losses due to artifical intelligence in near future.

Funke Olokude: No response.

Nicholas Rheubottom: Unions are important for protecting workers, ensuring fair wages, equity of pay, benefits, and pensions. At the same time, I believe the City must be able to adapt to changing workflows and new ways of delivering services. Too often, rigid job descriptions or seniority rules can slow innovation or make it harder for new talent to enter the workforce. My approach is to respect the role of unions while ensuring negotiations result in agreements that are fair to workers, fiscally sustainable, and flexible enough to meet the evolving needs of the city.

Jennifer Rice: No response.

Ward 11 (Karhiio)

1 To Be Elected

Jason Bale: Unions advocate for fair wages and safe workplaces. Building strong, respectful relationships through regular meetings encourages open dialogue and cooperation, while ensuring everyone understands the budget limits we must work within.

Manny Bautista: No response.

Joti Buttar: Public sector unions play an important role in representing the workers who keep our city running from waste collection to transit to emergency services. I value their contributions and believe in fair, respectful negotiations. However, fiscal responsibility must remain a priority. The City should ensure that wage and benefit agreements are sustainable, transparent, and aligned with what taxpayers can reasonably afford. I would focus on open communication, data-driven decision-making, and long-term planning to avoid reactive or costly agreements. The goal is to balance fairness for workers with accountability to residents ensuring quality services without putting added strain on taxpayers.

Yogesh Garg: No response.

Hali Kaur: No response.

Paul Mah: No response.

Atiq Rehman: No response.

Avinash Soochit: No response.

Keren Tang: No response.

Ward 12 (Sspomitapi)

1 To Be Elected

Imran Bashir: No response.

Annie Chua-Frith: Public sector unions play an important role in City operations. They advocate for fair wages, safe working conditions, and the long-term sustainability of public services. Many of the frontline workers who keep our city running—waste collectors, transit operators, emergency responders—are unionized, and their voices deserve respect and meaningful engagement. That said, fiscal responsibility must remain a core principle in all negotiations. Edmonton residents expect their tax dollars to be used wisely, and that includes ensuring that compensation and benefits are sustainable, transparent, and aligned with service outcomes. If elected, I would approach union negotiations with the following commitments: - Transparency and Public Accountability: Ensure that residents understand the financial implications of major agreements and that negotiations reflect both fairness and long-term value. - Evidence-Based Bargaining: Ground decisions in data—comparing compensation across municipalities, assessing service delivery impacts, and identifying areas for innovation or efficiency. - Collaborative Problem-Solving: Engage unions as partners in improving service delivery, not just as stakeholders in compensation. Many workers have frontline insights that can lead to smarter, more cost-effective solutions. - Clear Boundaries and Priorities: Uphold the City’s responsibility to balance budgets, protect core services, and avoid commitments that compromise future flexibility. Public sector unions and fiscal responsibility are not opposing forces—they can coexist when negotiations are guided by transparency, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to serving Edmonton well.

Harman Singh Kandola: City employees and the unions that represent them play an important role in delivering the services Edmontonians rely on every day. I respect the work they do, and I believe fair negotiations are important to maintaining good relationships between the City and its workforce. At the same time, we need to be clear that negotiations cannot come at the expense of taxpayers. Wage and benefit agreements must be sustainable and reflect the financial reality of the City. Property taxes have already gone up by 28 percent in recent years, and residents cannot afford more increases driven by contracts that outpace inflation and growth. As councillor, I will support collective bargaining that is fair to workers but firmly rooted in fiscal responsibility. That means ensuring agreements are transparent, affordable, and tied to the City’s ability to deliver core services efficiently. Edmonton needs to be a good employer, but it also needs to be accountable to the families and businesses who pay the bills.

Sukhi Randhawa: No response.

Sandeep Singh: No response.

Ashok Sui: No response.

Steve van Diest: Right now our city is being controlled by the civic unions. The very people we pay to work for us. They are funnelling money into an organization called Working Families Edmonton Inc and backing the incumbents that have a spending problem. This great for the unions, not for you the tax payer. That needs to stop.

Jo-Anne Wright: No response.

Ward 1 (Nakota Isga)

1 To Be Elected

Reed Clarke: No response.

Nicky Gocuan: No response.

Rajah Maggay: No response.

Joseph Mugodo: Climate change must be a high-priority lens through which we evaluate capital and operational spending, but it should not compete with or supersede the urgent need to address affordability, public safety, and infrastructure repair within Edmonton. Any costly policy that drives up the cost of living or diverts funds from essential snow clearing or road maintenance is fiscally irresponsible and will be opposed by my presence in City Hall. The strategy I will take in navigating this complex topic would be integration, not competition! The only responsible path forward is to achieve climate goals through integration and efficiency, ensuring that every climate action also delivers a direct co-benefit to the taxpayer or to core services: Infrastructure Efficiency: We must frame climate action as a critical component of asset management and operational savings. For example, when we upgrade City facilities or replace old fleet vehicles, we should choose the most energy-efficient options that will dramatically cut long-term utility and fuel bills. Spending money to save money is a fiscally responsible climate strategy. Streamlining Transit: A reliable, efficient, and safe public transit system is the single most effective municipal climate action because it encourages density and reduces car dependence. Our focus should be on making the existing system work flawlessly while being much more accessible to residents in all areas of the city, which serves both the climate goal and the core need for functional infrastructure. Reducing Red Tape: We should encourage private innovation in green building and renewable energy by streamlining permits and reducing regulatory costs, not by imposing new taxes or mandates on residents. The commitment to Net Zero is a guide for future technology, but the current budget must prioritize getting the basics right first, ensuring our residents feel safe, financially stable, and well-served by their municipal government.

Diana Steele: I would approach Edmonton’s long-term climate commitments, such as “net zero by 2050,” with pragmatism, balancing against pressing local concerns. While I support climate initiatives, I view them as a lower priority compared to affordability, public safety, and infrastructure, especially given Nakota Isga’s $5 billion deficit, high property taxes, and resident frustrations over inadequate services like garbage collection and snow removal. I strongly feel City Hall must first address immediate resident needs and restore trust through transparent engagement, ensuring climate commitments don’t overburden taxpayers or overshadow critical issues in Nakota Isga.

Jordon Woodruff: No response.

Ward 2 (Anirniq)

1 To Be Elected

Ali Al Kassab: Climate action should not be ranked against affordability or safety, but integrated with them. The priority is to focus on "no-regrets" strategies that deliver multiple benefits: Lowering Costs: Investing in energy-efficient buildings and public transit reduces utility and transportation bills for families and businesses. Building Resilience: Upgrading infrastructure to handle extreme weather protects our communities and saves money on future repairs. Economic Opportunity: Fostering a green economy creates local jobs and positions Edmonton as a forward-thinking city. My approach is to pursue climate solutions that also strengthen our economy, improve affordability, and enhance our quality of life today.

Nurmaiya Brady: No response.

Rob Fediuk: No response.

Ali Haymour: I believe we have a responsibility to protect our environment we live on not just for ourselves, but for future generations. However, in saying that, we shouldn't be punishing Edmontonians with extra fees or burdens, like bylaws that charge people for paper or cloth bags. That’s not meaningful climate action, it’s hypocrisy, when everything your buying is wrapped in plastic and business are making a huge profit off selling these bags at the cost of families who are already struggling with affordability. Real change comes through education, innovation, and collaboration, not developing regulations that keep picking our pockets. I believe City Hall should absolutely support cleaner, more efficient practices, whether that’s through energy, efficient infrastructure, better public transportation, or encouraging responsible development. But it needs to be balanced with other priorities like affordability, public safety, and fixing aging infrastructure. Those are the issues Edmontonians are facing right now and we can’t ignore them in pursuit of headline-grabbing climate goals. In short, I support responsible environmental action through education, innovation, and common sense, not political theatre or unnecessary red tape. Let’s focus on what works, not what makes headlines.

Erin Rutherford: No response.

Aggripa Wajo: I think that while the city keep eye on long-term climate commitment, the most pressing issues like affordability, public safety and infrature will be core to the functions of the city council. Climate commitments, long-term or short-term is a shared responsility between different levels of government and also differs in financing models. However, the city will continue with ensuring the preservation of our green spaces and river valleys to ensure our city's commitment to climate change.

Jesse Watson: No response.

Ward 3 (tastawiyiniwak)

1 To Be Elected

Fidel Ammar: No response.

Farhan Chak: Yes, Edmonton should take climate change seriously — but we need action that’s practical, affordable, and accountable. I support environmental goals like “net zero,” but only if they’re backed by clear plans and real results. Too often, City Hall makes sweeping commitments without showing how they’ll affect taxpayers or businesses. As councillor, I’ll focus on smart climate action: 1. Energy-efficient retrofits for older homes and civic buildings. 2. Green infrastructure that lowers long-term costs. 3. Transparent reporting on the cost and results of every initiative. We can protect our planet and our pocketbooks — if we stop treating climate policy as politics and start treating it as good governance.

Jimmy Clement Idi: Yes, Edmonton should make long-term climate commitments such as net zero by 2050, but these must be balanced with immediate priorities like affordability, public safety, and infrastructure. Climate action should be integrated into city planning and infrastructure projects in a way that supports economic growth, keeps costs manageable for residents, and improves quality of life. By taking practical, phased steps, the City can address climate change while meeting urgent community needs.

Jennifer Porritt: No response.

Karen Principe: No response.

Ward 4 (Dene)

1 To Be Elected

Paul Brake: No response.

Albert Mazzocca: No response.

Lana Palmer: No response.

Aaron Paquette: No response.

Banisha Sandhu: No response.

Jean Pierre Valois: No response.

Ward 5 (O-day'min)

1 To Be Elected

David Aaron: I believe that taking meaningful action on climate change is essential for the long-term health and sustainability of Edmonton. Commitments like achieving 'net zero by 2050' demonstrate leadership and a commitment to protecting our environment for future generations. However, it’s important that such initiatives are pursued in a fiscally responsible manner. Climate action must be prioritized, but it should also be balanced with other pressing concerns such as affordability, public safety, and infrastructure. I advocate for a thoughtful approach that carefully evaluates the costs and benefits of climate commitments, ensuring that investments are efficient and effective. By adopting a pragmatic strategy, we can work toward our climate goals while maintaining financial sustainability, so that we don’t compromise other critical priorities for the residents of Edmonton.

Stephen Hammerschmidt: No response.

James Miller: I place affodability, public safety and infrastructure, especially where the latter can contribute to the mitigation of climate change, before long-term climate change. Climate change is one issue that the federal government needs to take the lead on and while the situation is often seen as bleak, we are at a stage in human and scientific development where changes can be researched and implemented that can make a profound difference.

Lee Permann: No response.

Adil Pirbhai: No response.

Anand Benjamin Pye: No response.

Anne Stevenson: No response.

Patrick Stewart: No response.

Mulugeta (Mully) Tesfay: No response.

Ward 6 (Métis)

1 To Be Elected

Abdulhakim Dalel: No response.

James Gosse: Do you support “net-zero by 2050” style commitments? No. Council’s job is to deliver core services and be fiscally responsible. Binding future councils to long-term climate targets is not the role of municipal government and can divert resources from urgent needs. Priority compared to other issues Public safety, affordability, housing, roads, and transit come first. These are the services residents rely on every day and where the City is falling behind. My approach Evaluate projects case by case. Only support measures that improve service or cut costs, with clear business cases and payback. Focus on practical resilience that protects taxpayers, such as drainage and flood mitigation, reliable snow and ice control, and right-sizing the City fleet. Pursue provincial and federal grants where available. No new local taxes or fees to fund symbolic targets. Report results publicly so residents can see savings, not slogans.

Caroline Matthews: No response.

Norm Paradis: I think the city should promote “net zero” initiatives by maybe reducing taxes to corporations and private citizens.

Ashley Salvador: No response.

Justin Thomas: It is not within the City of Edmonton’s mandate to pursue that goal. We have already spent $200 million on a net-zero Blatchford, yet only 200 homes have been built in the neighborhood. Another $70 million was spent on electric buses that failed, and building a fire hall under the net-zero policy cost $16 million, while a similar facility in Leduc was built for less than $6 million. We need to be realistic and leave climate-related policies to the federal government.

Ward 7 (sipiwiyiniwak)

1 To Be Elected

Bassam Fares: No response.

Darrell Friesen: No response.

Giselle Quezon General: Climate action is important, but it must be practical, affordable, and aligned with the City’s core responsibilities. For example, reducing waste, improving building efficiency, protecting trees more diligently during infill developments, naturalization of certain park spaces, transportation infrastructure like double-wide sidewalks, and expanding reliable public transit can cut emissions while also saving money for residents. Long-term commitments like “net zero” should be pursued in a way that does not compromise affordability or core service delivery. It would be even better if numerical targets are clear, such as showing that hitting a milestone would show a certain amount of savings or economic impact (ex. accelerating the growth of certain industries and generates jobs).

Danny Heikkinen: Absolutely not. This city has committed hundreds of millions of dollars to climate change initiatives that, in my view, have produced little to no measurable impact. These efforts may be well-intentioned, but they fall outside the core responsibilities of municipal government and lack clear outcomes. Our focus should be on what directly affects residents: public safety, infrastructure, and essential services. These are the areas where the city has both the jurisdiction and the obligation to deliver results - not on vague environmental policies better suited to provincial or federal leadership.

Roger Kotch: No, the role of city council is to have a city whereby economic growth and affordability are a priority. Canada has one of the lowest green house levels in the world and further restrictions on our oil and gas sector only hinders our growth. New technologies are introduced constantly to address climate change.

Thu Parmar: No response.

Ken Ropcean: No response.

Ward 8 (papastew)

1 To Be Elected

Joshua Doyle: No response.

Mark Hillman: I feel this should be a low priority for the city as I feel this is a better issue for the federal or provincial governments to tackle

Terrie Holgerson: No response.

Rozalia Janiszewska: Climate change should be a top priority for the city and I definitely support making long-term commitments and long-term plans to address that

Michael Janz: No response.

Ward 9 (pihêsiwin)

1 To Be Elected

Sara Awatta: No response.

Michael Elliott: I believe Edmonton should be part of the conversation on environmental responsibility — but long-term climate commitments like “net zero by 2050” need to be grounded in realism, not just rhetoric. Yes, we should work toward cleaner, more sustainable practices — but not at the expense of core priorities like affordability, public safety, and critical infrastructure. Right now, many Edmontonians are struggling to pay their bills, keep their homes, and feel safe in their communities. Those are the immediate issues that City Hall must prioritize.

Mohammad Ali Kamal: No response.

Larry Langley: We can always do things better however net zero is an example of issues outside of our purview. When compared to affordability, safety and infrastructure the right now outweighs the possibility of something in the distant future

Jackie Liu: We need goals for climate accountability. We need to make decisions that are informed by climate change, however, each individual decision has to be reviewed to consider nuance.

Rupesh Patel: I consider climate a core part of the City's work. For example, we need to ensure our critical infrastructure (roads, bridges, facilities) accounts for climate risks, because if they don't it will compromise public safety and city infrastructure. The challenge with our City's climate goals, is that they are heavily influenced by provincial and federal policies. I'd like to make sure that our climate actions are centred around what the City can actually control.

Ward 10 (Ipiihkoohkanipiaohtsi)

1 To Be Elected

Ramey Demian: Climate change is important, but we must be practical and prioritize immediate needs like affordability, safety, and infrastructure. Residents cannot be asked to pay higher taxes for symbolic targets while their sidewalks crumble and their communities face safety concerns. As a broker and a businessperson, I believe in practical steps: encourage energy-efficient buildings, improve waste management, and reduce inefficiencies in City operations. These measures can save money and help the environment without burdening residents. Grand commitments like “net zero by 2050” must not come at the cost of affordability and core services. The balance must always be practical solutions over political slogans.

Beth Mathison: No response.

Jon Morgan: It should be balanced and is part of these questions. We need firehalls now or are communities are at risk. We also need to make sure that with a warming and drier climate we have firehalls that can respond to increased fire calls. There's an immediate response of how do we respond to a crisis now, and the long term goal of being more proactive and addressing these concerns before they get worse or we'll be reactionary with ever increasing costs long term.

Fahad Mughal: A clear vision of how net zero will be achieved is important. The Electric bus fiasco took us further away from Net Zero vision. Climate Change is equally important like affordability and safety but a responsible government and clear vision in needed more then ever.

Funke Olokude: No response.

Nicholas Rheubottom: Climate change should absolutely be a priority for City Council, but the way we prioritize it matters. Edmonton has already invested heavily in policies that are either not actionable or deliver little in terms of real outcomes. Edmontonians care about the environment and we need to show that we value it too. That means focusing on initiatives that deliver measurable results residents can see, rather than lofty promises that fail to move the needle. My approach would be to support practical, cost-effective steps that reduce emissions, improve efficiency, and make Edmonton more resilient while keeping affordability and core services at the forefront.

Jennifer Rice: No response.

Ward 11 (Karhiio)

1 To Be Elected

Jason Bale: While climate policy is primarily a provincial and federal responsibility, municipalities can collaborate with the other levels of government to contribute meaningfully. Initiatives such as expanding urban tree canopies, investing in low-carbon transit options, and optimizing traffic flow to reduce idling can help us do our part.

Manny Bautista: No response.

Joti Buttar: Yes, Edmonton should make long-term climate commitments like net zero by 2050 — but those goals must be practical, affordable, and balanced with other pressing priorities. Climate action is important, but it shouldn’t come at the expense of affordability, safety, or essential infrastructure. We need to focus on realistic, step-by-step changes such as better transit planning, energy-efficient buildings, and waste reduction, while ensuring residents aren’t burdened by higher costs. A smart city can pursue sustainability and fiscal responsibility together — protecting the environment while keeping life affordable and improving core services for everyday Edmontonians.

Yogesh Garg: No response.

Hali Kaur: No response.

Paul Mah: No response.

Atiq Rehman: No response.

Avinash Soochit: No response.

Keren Tang: No response.

Ward 12 (Sspomitapi)

1 To Be Elected

Imran Bashir: No response.

Annie Chua-Frith: Yes, I believe Edmonton should make long-term climate commitments like “net zero by 2050”—but those commitments must be practical, transparent, and rooted in community benefit. Climate change isn’t a separate issue from affordability, public safety, or infrastructure—it intersects with all of them. Extreme weather affects road maintenance and emergency response. Energy efficiency impacts household costs. Green infrastructure can improve livability while reducing long-term spending. That said, climate action must be prioritized in a way that doesn’t leave residents behind. I support: - Investing in energy-efficient public infrastructure that lowers operating costs and improves service delivery. - Supporting low-income households through retrofitting programs and utility relief, so climate goals don’t worsen affordability. - Expanding green spaces and transit options that improve public health and reduce emissions. - Ensuring transparency and accountability in climate spending, with clear metrics and community consultation. Climate change is a long-term challenge—but it demands local leadership now. I’ll advocate for solutions that are fiscally responsible, socially inclusive, and grounded in the lived realities of Edmonton residents.

Harman Singh Kandola: Climate change is real, and cities like Edmonton have a role to play in reducing emissions and building resilience. But those efforts must be balanced with the immediate concerns residents face every day. Families in Ward Sspomitapi are telling me they are worried about affordability, rising property taxes, safety in their neighbourhoods, and the reliability of basic services. Those priorities must come first. I support practical climate measures that also improve quality of life and save money over the long term, such as more efficient buildings, better transit, and waste reduction. But I do not believe in making costly long-term commitments without a clear plan for how they will be paid for. Net zero by 2050 cannot just be a slogan, it must be realistic and fiscally responsible. My approach is to put core services and affordability at the top of the agenda while supporting climate initiatives that are practical, affordable, and deliver real results for residents. Edmonton needs to be a sustainable city, but it also needs to be a city people can afford to live in.

Sukhi Randhawa: No response.

Sandeep Singh: No response.

Ashok Sui: No response.

Steve van Diest: No. I’m in favour of keeping things clean and not polluting, but this idea that everyone must drive an electric vehicle or they are climate deniers mentally has to go.

Jo-Anne Wright: No response.

Ward 1 (Nakota Isga)

1 To Be Elected

Reed Clarke: No response.

Nicky Gocuan: No response.

Rajah Maggay: No response.

Joseph Mugodo: From a housing supply and affordability perspective, the overall pace of infill development is too slow. We need to quickly increase the diversity and quantity of housing available across the city to curb rising costs and make better use of existing infrastructure. However, the manner in which infill has been pursued often makes the pace feel too fast and poorly managed to residents in mature neighborhoods. The City has created a chaotic environment where communities are reacting to individual projects, not participating in strategic planning. This is a failure of governance and process, not a failure of the concept of infill itself. My priority is to streamline the regulatory red tape (as outlined in your previous question) to accelerate responsible, conforming infill development, while simultaneously fixing the broken engagement process. Public engagement on infill must undergo a critical shift from reactive reaction to proactive planning to restore trust, an essential plank in my HEARTSPOT governance commitment. Below are some specific highlights from my overall strategy for infill projects, a critical topic that has become a major issue, refelcted by the media and constituents I have engaged with. Shift Focus from the Permit to the Plan: The current process forces neighbors to fight development applications for housing that already conforms to the City's regulations. This is unfair to both the resident and the builder. Public engagement must focus on setting the clear rules (the Zoning Bylaw) for a neighborhood, not debating conforming individual permits. Once the community has debated and accepted the clear rules, the development should proceed quickly if it meets those rules. Clear Communication and Early Transparency: The City must publish a clear, easy-to-understand Neighborhood Development Guide for every community that clearly spells out what is permitted (e.g., maximum height, number of units, setbacks) without requiring residents to wade through complex municipal codes. This proactive clarity manages expectations and reduces conflict. Mandatory Compliance and Enforcement: The greatest frustration for residents is not the housing itself, but the disruption caused by poor project management (e.g., inadequate fencing, debris, parking issues). The City needs a dedicated, well-resourced compliance team that responds quickly to construction site complaints and imposes steep, immediate fines for infractions. Accountability for disruption and damage must be non-negotiable.

Diana Steele: Edmonton’s pace of infill development is happening too fast. Residents feel disrupted by construction and unheard by City Council. I believe the City must prioritize community input. To improve engagement, I’d advocate for transparent, accessible public consultations, leveraging my Organization Development expertise to create resident advisory groups and ensure Nakota Isga’s diverse voices shape infill policies, balancing growth with neighborhood integrity.

Jordon Woodruff: No response.

Ward 2 (Anirniq)

1 To Be Elected

Ali Al Kassab: The current pace of infill is creating significant strain on communities, making it feel too fast for the existing systems we have in place. The issue isn't the goal of increased density, but the poor management of its impacts, from parking and waste overflow to the loss of mature trees and neighbourhood character. The City’s public engagement must evolve from simply notifying residents to truly collaborating with them. We need: Earlier and Clearer Communication: Engage communities before re-zoning applications are finalized, with clear visualizations of proposed changes. Cumulative Impact Assessments: Look at the total effect of multiple infill projects on a single block, rather than reviewing each lot in isolation. Enforced Protections: Ensure developer compliance with rules on tree preservation, drainage, and construction noise to build trust that community standards will be upheld. We can grow smarter by making residents authentic partners in the process, not obstacles to it.

Nurmaiya Brady: No response.

Rob Fediuk: No response.

Ali Haymour: I believe the pace of infill development in Edmonton has gotten ahead of common sense. While smart infill can help revitalize aging areas and make better use of existing infrastructure, the way it's being rolled out right now, especially under Policy 20001, is causing a lot of frustration in mature neighbourhoods. We need to revisit and amend Policy 20001 to ensure that infill is done with communities, not to them. I stand with residents in mature neighbourhoods who are seeing the character of their communities change overnight, often without proper consultation, and without the infrastructure in place to support higher density. High-density housing shouldn't be pushed into areas where there isn’t enough parking, where streets are already overcrowded, or where schools, drainage, and other services are already at capacity. We need smarter planning, and that includes clear guidelines on parking, traffic impact, green space, and utilities, not just blanket approvals to please developers and to meet arbitrary density targets. As your representative, I would push for a more balanced approach to infill, one that protects the integrity of established neighbourhoods, ensures proper infrastructure is in place, and genuinely listens to the voices of residents. I believe growth is important, but it has to be thoughtful, responsible, and community-focused.

Erin Rutherford: No response.

Aggripa Wajo: Infill is a great way to ease housing demands in Edmonton. It helps families stay together and near each other. Children can build an infill house for their parents to take care of their grandchildren. It is a great way to keep families together and make retirement meaningful for older parents. However, Infill can burden the neighborhood by shrinking available spaces. It increases the number of people living in the neighborhood, it increases the number of cars parked on the streets, thereby affecting the srvices provided in the neighborhood. It burdens the services like schools etc. in the area. Moreover, it reduces property values and affects individual investment, especially in the mmature areas. Because of these, infill is not a good way to expand services in the city of Edmonton. Better policy guidelines need to be developed if infill development should be continued in the city, taking into consideration where in the city the infill can be built without negatively affecting the services and the residents of the area.

Jesse Watson: No response.

Ward 3 (tastawiyiniwak)

1 To Be Elected

Fidel Ammar: No response.

Farhan Chak: Edmonton needs more housing, but the City’s current pace of infill feels too rushed — and too disconnected from what residents want. As your councillor, I’ll advocate for responsible growth that strengthens neighbourhoods instead of overwhelming them. 1. Link infill projects to real infrastructure capacity — roads, drainage, schools. 2. Require genuine, early public input — not just token surveys after decisions are made. 3. Encourage gentle density like garden suites and duplexes, not massive developments that change neighbourhood character. 4. Make rezoning impacts fully transparent to residents. We can grow smarter — not faster. Infill should serve people, not politics. Let’s build communities that feel like home — for everyone.

Jimmy Clement Idi: I believe Edmonton’s pace of infill development is generally about right, but it must be carefully managed to respect existing neighborhoods and infrastructure. The City should engage residents early and meaningfully in the planning process, providing clear information, opportunities for input, and transparent decision-making. Effective public consultation helps balance growth with community needs, ensuring infill contributes to livable, connected neighborhoods while supporting sustainable urban development.

Jennifer Porritt: No response.

Karen Principe: No response.

Ward 4 (Dene)

1 To Be Elected

Paul Brake: No response.

Albert Mazzocca: No response.

Lana Palmer: No response.

Aaron Paquette: No response.

Banisha Sandhu: No response.

Jean Pierre Valois: No response.

Ward 5 (O-day'min)

1 To Be Elected

David Aaron: Developers are racing now, to take advantage of City Council's mistake of a blanket zoning bylaw allowing 8 units. That is absolutely ridiculous. I believe inner-city development should be thoughtfully managed, with a limit of four units per lot and parking requirements that reflect community needs. Larger developments should require comprehensive community consultations to ensure they align with residents' interests.

Stephen Hammerschmidt: No response.

James Miller: I've already addressed this but want to stress, again, the need to listen to neighborhoods while working to provide housing.

Lee Permann: No response.

Adil Pirbhai: No response.

Anand Benjamin Pye: No response.

Anne Stevenson: No response.

Patrick Stewart: No response.

Mulugeta (Mully) Tesfay: No response.

Ward 6 (Métis)

1 To Be Elected

Abdulhakim Dalel: No response.

James Gosse: Is the pace of infill too fast, too slow, or about right? Too fast and in the wrong way. The blanket zoning change was a mistake. It has fueled speculation to an unmanageable degree. Homes that were once affordable get bought, bulldozed, and marketed for multiplex potential, pushing prices far beyond what local families can pay. How I would fix it • Replace blanket upzoning with targeted, plan-led upzoning tied to infrastructure, parking, and school capacity • Prioritize gentle, neighbour-friendly forms first, with clear design standards and privacy rules • Require public benefits when higher density is approved, such as family-sized units or long-term rent-stabilized units • Set demolition and servicing requirements that reflect the real costs of replacing a single home with multiple units, and direct those dollars to local infrastructure • Publish quarterly data on teardowns, approvals, unit types, and price impacts so residents can see what is happening on their block Public engagement improvements • Involve residents before policy is drafted, not after. Ward-level workshops and neighbourhood plans that guide where and how infill fits • Require pre-application meetings for larger infill, with plain-language notices, a larger notification radius, and an online page showing drawings, traffic and servicing info, and timelines • Give communities a clear escalation path for variances and compliance, with enforcement that is timely and transparent Goal: more homes without pricing out first-time buyers or hollowing out stable blocks. Growth should be planned, affordable, and respectful of existing neighbourhoods.

Caroline Matthews: No response.

Norm Paradis: Infill is out of control and we need to slow it down and get a reign on it. Developers are doing basically whatever they like and overloading properties. They don’t care because they don’t live there and are only in it for the money.

Ashley Salvador: No response.

Justin Thomas: The blanket rezoning bylaw needs to be repealed. There was no meaningful public consultation, and for that reason, repealing the bylaw is one of my top priorities.

Ward 7 (sipiwiyiniwak)

1 To Be Elected

Bassam Fares: No response.

Darrell Friesen: No response.

Giselle Quezon General: Residents are telling me infill feels too fast, too big and too disruptive in some areas, without enough attention to parking, infrastructure, and the reality of people’s everyday behaviours whether it is their desire for green space and gardening, transportation and parking, soundproofing, waste management and more. I support infill as part of responsible growth, but engagement must improve. The guidelines should be more context-specific, ensure that privacy and quality of life of current residents are considered, and that better communication they don’t feel changes are imposed without their voice.

Danny Heikkinen: We need to repeal Zoning Bylaw 20001 and return to the previous framework that gave communities a meaningful voice in development decisions. Under the old bylaws, parking requirements were a standard part of new projects - unlike the current bylaw, which disregards parking altogether. This shift has created unnecessary strain on neighbourhoods and undermined thoughtful planning. Once repealed, we can begin genuine engagement with both residents and builders to establish a development standard that respects the character of mature neighbourhoods and the people who chose to live in them. Increasing density is a valid goal, but it must be pursued with far more consideration than we’re seeing today. Moreover, the City Plan must be flexible - not a rigid document that ignores public input. Engagement should be real, not performative. Unfortunately, my own experience with construction in Gariepy has shown how disconnected city decisions can be from the voices of the community.

Roger Kotch: Infill housing that causes traffic disruptions and has the opposition of the public should never be approved. The existing residents should have a say in permitting. I vote to repeal bylaw 20001.

Thu Parmar: No response.

Ken Ropcean: No response.

Ward 8 (papastew)

1 To Be Elected

Joshua Doyle: No response.

Mark Hillman: I feel it is far to fast and is anything but gentle. We need a district overlay to our zoning so that we have the ability to account for the different needs of the very different areas of our city.

Terrie Holgerson: No response.

Rozalia Janiszewska: The pace is about right. There are no significant changes that need to be made

Michael Janz: No response.

Ward 9 (pihêsiwin)

1 To Be Elected

Sara Awatta: No response.

Michael Elliott: I believe the pace of infill development has moved too quickly in some areas, and one of the biggest problems is how it’s being implemented — often without meaningful public consultation. The City has created policies that have a major impact on communities, but residents haven’t been properly consulted, and that’s unacceptable. People deserve a real say in how their neighbourhoods grow and change. Policy should be shaped by public input, not imposed without it. When you leave people out of the process, you lose trust — and that’s exactly what’s happened with infill in many parts of Edmonton.

Mohammad Ali Kamal: No response.

Larry Langley: The COE listened to a few developers over the voices of its constituents. Infill is an idea in areas near major attractions or locations. It is not required in the suburbs. Density is not a solution without issues of its own. The old Northlands parcel, Blatchford are both areas where housing could be affordable and will require no real investment on infrastructure as the city is all around it. It would not negatively impact surrounding homes, rather it could revitalize the area.

Jackie Liu: We could use stronger criteria around the development of infill, and that criteria needs to make sense for the usage case (e.g. if we say people living in a multiplex will rely on transit, there has to be close proximity to transit). We can develop localized criteria alongside neighbourhoods.

Rupesh Patel: It's the type of development and where that's the problem. I think having higher density near major transit corridors and traffic areas is appropriate. But to have multi-unit (8 plexes) deep in a neighbourhood without accessible transit and no parking requirements is challenging for local residents. We also need to consider implementing design requirements or a process that allows infill developments to fit within the community.

Ward 10 (Ipiihkoohkanipiaohtsi)

1 To Be Elected

Ramey Demian: The pace of infill feels too fast for many communities, and residents often feel ignored in the process. Infill can help revitalize older neighborhoods, but it must be done responsibly, with proper infrastructure in place. In my work as a broker, I’ve seen firsthand how infill affects neighborhoods—from parking pressures to increased density without matching investment in schools, roads, or transit. The City needs to improve transparency, give residents meaningful notice, and make sure infrastructure is ready before major changes are approved. Growth must work for communities, not against them.

Beth Mathison: No response.

Jon Morgan: I think there are a lot of questions remaining for infill in our city. Things like garbage removal and access to transportation options. If there is no parking, is there reliable transit options nearby. How are we protecting our green space which is part of a walkable and complete community? How are we ensuring that historic homes and buildings, and the general history of the history are preserved (something we've not done particularly well as a city)? Even the question of waste and compost removal is not fully answered at this time. These are reasonable questions to answer and I believe solutions are there if we meaningfully engage on them. Urban sprawl is real and a drain on our cities so building up more than out is also logical but we need these questions answered.

Fahad Mughal: Infill is not affordable, it is destroying character of neighborhoods and does not solve affordability crises. The city should engage with public, not hold public meetings to tell the public what changes will be done in their community.

Funke Olokude: No response.

Nicholas Rheubottom: Infill is a key part of meeting Edmonton’s housing needs, and I bring professional experience in housing that shapes how I see this issue. That may make me an outlier compared to some, but it gives me perspective on how critical new supply is to affordability and sustainable growth. At the same time, engagement must improve. Too often residents feel decisions are made without them, and that erodes trust. Development should balance growth with preserving the character of existing communities. The focus should be on regulating design quality and fit rather than simply restricting density, so new projects strengthen neighbourhoods instead of dividing them.

Jennifer Rice: No response.

Ward 11 (Karhiio)

1 To Be Elected

Jason Bale: My intentions are; 1. To put forward a motion to repeal the current zoing by-law, and 2. While we wait for that, table amendments such as: bring back minimum parking requirements, and only two to four units depending on lot size. There is much more information about my proposed plan in the blog on my website.

Manny Bautista: No response.

Joti Buttar: Edmonton’s pace of infill development has been too fast in some areas and poorly planned in others. While thoughtful infill is important for growth, many residents feel blindsided by sudden changes that don’t fit their neighbourhood’s character or infrastructure capacity. The City needs a more balanced, community-driven approach one that prioritizes proper consultation, parking solutions, and traffic safety. Engagement must be genuine, not a formality. Residents should have real input before projects move forward. Infill works best when it’s done responsibly with respect for existing communities, proper infrastructure planning, and a clear vision for sustainable growth.

Yogesh Garg: No response.

Hali Kaur: No response.

Paul Mah: No response.

Atiq Rehman: No response.

Avinash Soochit: No response.

Keren Tang: No response.

Ward 12 (Sspomitapi)

1 To Be Elected

Imran Bashir: No response.

Annie Chua-Frith: I believe Edmonton’s pace of infill development is uneven—too fast in some areas without adequate consultation, and too slow in others where smart density could support affordability, accessibility, and vibrant communities. Infill is essential to managing growth responsibly, but it must be done with care, transparency, and respect for existing residents. The City needs to improve how it engages the public on infill development. That means: - Earlier and more inclusive consultation: Residents should be involved before decisions are finalized—not just informed after the fact. Engagement must include renters, newcomers, and culturally diverse communities who are often left out of planning conversations. - Clearer communication and accountability: The City must explain the rationale behind infill projects, how they align with long-term goals, and what safeguards are in place to protect community character and livability. - Better coordination across departments: Infill shouldn’t mean overburdened infrastructure or inconsistent service delivery. Planning must be integrated with transit, waste collection, and public safety to ensure neighborhoods remain functional and welcoming. - Support for community-led solutions: Residents often have creative ideas for how to welcome growth while preserving identity. The City should empower local input—not just manage it. As a candidate, I’ll advocate for infill that reflects both practical needs and community values—so Edmonton grows wisely, not just quickly.

Harman Singh Kandola: The current pace of infill development is too fast and poorly managed. I support infill where it makes sense, but what we are seeing today is six and eight unit buildings being forced into mature neighbourhoods without proper consultation or consideration for existing residents. That is not thoughtful city planning, it is a one-size-fits-all approach that undermines trust in City Hall. A big part of the problem is that the current council and mayor eliminated the community feedback surveys that used to give residents a real voice in the process. Now people are blindsided when construction starts across the street with no warning and no opportunity to share their concerns. This has left many families feeling ignored in decisions that affect their daily lives. As councillor, I will push to restore meaningful consultation and ensure residents are part of the conversation on infill development. Growth must happen in a way that strengthens neighbourhoods instead of dividing them. That means listening to communities, protecting quality of life, and focusing infill in areas where infrastructure and services can actually support it.

Sukhi Randhawa: No response.

Sandeep Singh: No response.

Ashok Sui: No response.

Steve van Diest: This city opened the door to predatory development that are coming in and destroying out mature communities and stealing starter home for young families. We need to repeal they current bylaw 20001 and add districting back so communities have a say on e again.

Jo-Anne Wright: No response.

Ward 1 (Nakota Isga)

1 To Be Elected

Reed Clarke: No response.

Nicky Gocuan: No response.

Rajah Maggay: No response.

Joseph Mugodo: The current tension is a complex issue and I won't pretend to know all of the factors or influences that has resulted in such a degraded relationship. That said, I assume that the present issues, in part, arise from each body overstepping its legal mandate. We must return to the Police Act to define roles clearly: City Council's Role (Fiscal Governance): Council's power lies in setting the strategic direction and controlling the budget. We should not micromanage operations, but we must use the budget to enforce outcomes. Commission's Role (Independent Oversight): The Police Commission must be empowered and supported politically to fulfill its primary role of civilian oversight, operational policy, and managing the Chief of Police. Council must trust the Commission to manage police affairs, allowing them to be the crucial buffer and accountability mechanism for the public. Mandated Strategic Alignment: I would champion regular, structured joint sessions between the relevant Council committee (e.g., Public Safety) and the Police Commission to align on shared strategic outcomes for the city (e.g., reducing social disorder, effective mental health crisis response) before the budget submission. This focuses energy on common goals, not institutional disputes. Rebuilding broken trust in the system will not happen over night but there are measured steps that can be taken to improve transparency and accountability, understanding that Council's greatest leverage is its financial authority. We must tie funding to transparent, measurable performance by initially focusing on some key areas: Performance-Based Budgeting: I would demand that the EPS budget request includes clear, quantifiable performance metrics that go beyond simple crime statistics. These metrics must focus on public safety indicators related to social services such as: response times for core issues; outcomes of mental health calls (e.g., diversion rates, non-use-of-force resolution); community satisfaction with policing in high-vulnerability areas. Mandatory Public Data Reporting: The Commission, with Council's support, must mandate more granular, public reporting on police interactions, including use-of-force data and detailed information regarding the handling and resolution of public complaints. Empowering the Commission: We must ensure the Police Commission has the necessary, non-politicized resources (staffing, expertise) to conduct independent audits and investigations, making its oversight role a powerful reality, not just a procedural formality. The ultimate accountability is to the citizens of Edmonton. Healing the Community-Police Relationship: True public safety requires the community to trust and partner with its police service. To begin the essential process of healing and improving this relationship, the City must facilitate proactive, structured dialogue, shifting from a reactive approach to one of mutual understanding and co-governance. Establish Permanent Community Forums: I will champion the creation of regular, accessible, and structured Community-Police Dialogues. These are not complaint sessions, but proactive forums where EPS leadership, Commission members, and diverse community voices (including vulnerable populations and youth) can meet regularly to discuss strategies, share data, and co-design non-enforcement solutions for neighborhood issues. Invest in Community Co-Governance: The City must support models that genuinely integrate community experience into policy. This means formally empowering non-police entities, such as community-based organizations, to lead on non-enforcement response areas—like mental health and encampment outreach—that are currently defaulting to EPS. By removing police from roles where they are not the best fit, we free up officers for core duties and rebuild trust where it matters most. Proactive Transparency on Outcomes: Beyond mandated statistics, the City and Commission must ensure EPS proactively shares information about positive community engagement and the outcomes of collaborative programs. When collaboration works, the public needs to see those success stories to help shift the narrative from perpetual tension to collective progress.

Diana Steele: Rebuilding trust between the Edmonton Police Service, the Police Commission, and City Council requires transparent, collaborative action to address community concerns in Nakota Isga, especially amid rising safety issues and a $5 billion city deficit. Drawing on my 35 years of community engagement, policy work with the Government of Alberta, and leadership experience, I’d foster open dialogue through regular public forums, ensure the Police Commission prioritizes clear, data-driven accountability measures, and advocate for community policing initiatives that align with resident needs. My Organization Development expertise would guide inclusive stakeholder collaboration, enhancing transparency and accountability while strengthening trust and safety across Edmonton.

Jordon Woodruff: No response.

Ward 2 (Anirniq)

1 To Be Elected

Ali Al Kassab: Rebuilding trust requires a disciplined focus on clear roles, shared objectives, and transparent results. My approach would be based on three principles: Respect for Governance: I respect the operational independence of the Police Service, while firmly upholding Council's role as the funder and the Police Commission's role as the overseer. My job is to ask tough questions about budget and outcomes on behalf of taxpayers. Collaboration on Shared Goals: I would champion a joint public safety strategy that aligns Council, the Commission, and EPS on common, measurable priorities, like reducing violent crime, improving response times, and expanding the co-response model. This moves us from debating authority to solving problems together. Radical Transparency on Outcomes: The public deserves clear, accessible data on performance and spending. I would push for regular, public reporting on key metrics, so we can all judge effectiveness based on results, not just rhetoric. This framework fosters accountability through collaboration, ensuring all parties are working toward the common goal of a safer Edmonton.

Nurmaiya Brady: No response.

Rob Fediuk: No response.

Ali Haymour: As someone with a background in law enforcement, I understand firsthand the challenges and responsibilities that come with policing. I also recognize how critical public trust and transparency are not just for the Edmonton Police Service, but for our entire community. The tension we've seen in recent years between City Council, the Police Commission, and the Edmonton Police Service has created confusion and eroded trust on all sides. That’s not healthy for governance, and it’s certainly not helping officers on the ground or the citizens they serve. My approach would be to bridge that divide to encourage open, respectful dialogue between all parties, and ensure that we're working together with a clear, shared mission: keeping our communities safe while respecting the rights of all Edmontonians. Accountability and transparency matter, but so does supporting the men and women who put on the uniform every day. We need clear expectations, stable funding, and measurable outcomes, not political games or shifting goalposts.

Erin Rutherford: No response.

Aggripa Wajo: Community and social services agencies are the pillars of community safety. However, I propose in my platform that the community will have to work together with other services providers to ensure the safety of the community. Community safety is the responsibility of the community, working hand in hand with other agencies to ensure fair and effective services for all citizens. This can be done through liaising between the community, social services agents, the EPS and any other party by organizing interagency meetings and forums for trust building. The interagency meetings as a trust building measure to reasure that each party's commitment is important. This will improve collaboration, transparency and accountability between the agencies.

Jesse Watson: No response.

Ward 3 (tastawiyiniwak)

1 To Be Elected

Fidel Ammar: No response.

Farhan Chak: Edmonton’s relationship between City Council, the Police Commission, and the Edmonton Police Service has become strained — and it’s hurting public confidence. As councillor, I’ll work to restore trust through communication, collaboration, and accountability. 1. Regular joint leadership meetings between EPS, Council, and the Commission to align priorities. 2. Public dashboards on crime trends and spending — so citizens see where their money goes. 3. Strong oversight that ensures accountability without political interference. 4. Support for community policing and neighbourhood safety partnerships. Edmontonians deserve both safety and transparency — and leadership that brings people together, not drives them apart.

Jimmy Clement Idi: Rebuilding trust between the Edmonton Police Service, the Police Commission, and City Council requires open communication, transparency, and accountability. I would prioritize regular dialogue between all parties, ensure decisions are informed by data and community input, and support independent oversight mechanisms. Engaging residents, sharing clear information, and creating collaborative problem-solving processes can strengthen relationships, improve public confidence, and ensure policing aligns with the safety needs and values of all Edmontonians.

Jennifer Porritt: No response.

Karen Principe: No response.

Ward 4 (Dene)

1 To Be Elected

Paul Brake: No response.

Albert Mazzocca: No response.

Lana Palmer: No response.

Aaron Paquette: No response.

Banisha Sandhu: No response.

Jean Pierre Valois: No response.

Ward 5 (O-day'min)

1 To Be Elected

David Aaron: Rebuilding trust and fostering collaboration among the Edmonton Police Service, the Police Commission, and City Council requires a comprehensive and strategic approach. Here are key steps to consider: 1.Open Dialogue and Listening Sessions Facilitate regular, structured forums where community members, police representatives, and officials can openly discuss concerns, share perspectives, and collaboratively identify solutions. Prioritize listening to marginalized and underserved groups to understand their experiences and needs. 2.Transparency Initiatives Increase transparency through clear reporting on police activities, use-of-force incidents, misconduct allegations, and disciplinary actions. Make public data and reports accessible and easy to understand. 3.Strengthening Oversight and Accountability Enhance the role of the Police Commission with clear mandates, independence, and authority to oversee police operations effectively. Establish or improve independent oversight bodies with investigative powers. 4.Policy Reforms and Training Review and revise police policies to emphasize community-based policing, de-escalation, and human rights. Invest in ongoing training focused on cultural competence, bias reduction, and trauma-informed approaches. 5.Community Engagement and Partnerships Develop long-term partnerships with community organizations, advocates, and local leaders to co-design policing strategies. Support community-led initiatives to build trust and foster collaboration. 6.Accountability Measures Implement and enforce strict consequences for misconduct. Recognize and reward transparency and exemplary conduct within the police force. 7.Leadership Commitment Ensure leadership within the police service and governing bodies publicly commit to reforms, accountability, and community partnership. Regularly evaluate progress and adjust strategies accordingly. This multi-pronged approach, rooted in genuine engagement, transparency, and accountability, can help rebuild trust and foster a more collaborative, effective, and community-focused policing model in Edmonton.

Stephen Hammerschmidt: No response.

James Miller: By doing just that, ensuring collaboration, transparency and accountability.

Lee Permann: No response.

Adil Pirbhai: No response.

Anand Benjamin Pye: No response.

Anne Stevenson: No response.

Patrick Stewart: No response.

Mulugeta (Mully) Tesfay: No response.

Ward 6 (Métis)

1 To Be Elected

Abdulhakim Dalel: No response.

James Gosse: Rebuilding trust starts with clarity of roles, measurable results, and honest reporting. Council sets outcomes and the budget, the Commission provides civilian governance and holds the Chief to account, and EPS manages operations. I will respect those roles and focus everyone on public safety results residents can see. • Publish a quarterly public safety scorecard and open data on use of force, complaints, discipline timelines, and budget to outcome tracking • Tie any funding growth to outcomes and cost control, including overtime management, staffing plans, and deployment on transit and in hotspots • Strengthen independent oversight with regular City Auditor reviews of major programs and a public annual performance letter from the Commission on the Chief’s goals • Improve collaboration through a monthly table of EPS, Commission, Transit, Community Standards, and health and social partners to coordinate enforcement and outreach • Expand co-response where appropriate, pairing peace officers and outreach teams for mental health and addiction calls that do not require an armed response

Caroline Matthews: No response.

Norm Paradis: First let me just say all our emergency services are crucial and we need to have a better relationship with all of them. I would like to start that dialogue.

Ashley Salvador: No response.

Justin Thomas: As a councilor I would refrain from making public statement about police based on a 10 second video clip and let the courts decide the outcome. I wll allow the police commission to oversee the police while making sure the budget remain realistic.

Ward 7 (sipiwiyiniwak)

1 To Be Elected

Bassam Fares: No response.

Darrell Friesen: No response.

Giselle Quezon General: Trust requires clarity of roles and consistent communication. Council sets the budget and overall policy direction. The Commission provides civilian oversight. EPS delivers public safety. I work best by being at the table myself and building those relationships. I would seek out one of the councillor’s seats at the Edmonton Police Commission to play my role in promoting open communication, clear performance metrics, and transparency in decision-making.

Danny Heikkinen: We should start by redefining the roles and responsibilities of EPS, the Police Commission, and City Council to ensure clarity and accountability across the board. Wherever feasible, we must publish public reports that highlight performance metrics, community engagement outcomes, and - when it doesn’t compromise investigations - budget usage. To strengthen transparency and trust, we should support regular town halls where residents can voice their concerns directly to EPS, the commission, and council. Establishing clear accountability standards is essential, and all three bodies must operate with a shared understanding of their mandates and limitations.

Roger Kotch: Huge problem presently exists whereby the EPS refuses to divulge their financials and make them accountable. We cannot fund a service without having the ability to peruse where the funds are bring spent. You do not just hand over funds without knowing how they are allocated.

Thu Parmar: No response.

Ken Ropcean: No response.

Ward 8 (papastew)

1 To Be Elected

Joshua Doyle: No response.

Mark Hillman: The first step is to show up. We cannot build trust and collaboration with any organization we need to if we do not show up and have open dialogue. We have various interests btu at the end of the day bettering Edmonton is the core goal of all of these groups.

Terrie Holgerson: No response.

Rozalia Janiszewska: As listed earlier, I believe there are problems with EPS at the moment, so we need to push them to release their budget and get the province to reform the system of trying officers. We should also cut 10% from the EPS budget and reinvest it in affordable housing

Michael Janz: No response.

Ward 9 (pihêsiwin)

1 To Be Elected

Sara Awatta: No response.

Michael Elliott: Having served as President of the Edmonton Police Association, and worked closely with both the Police Commission and City Council, I understand firsthand the importance of clear roles, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to public safety. In recent years, we’ve seen unnecessary conflict and political drama get in the way of that mission. Let’s be clear: some City Councillors need to learn to stay in their lane, allow the Police Commission to do its job, and stop trying to micromanage policing for political points. Instead of stirring division, they should take the time to actually learn the rules, responsibilities, and purpose of the Commission, and focus on outcomes — not optics. Rebuilding trust starts with: • Respecting the structure that exists — EPS answers to the Police Commission, not to individual councillors; • Ensuring the Commission is empowered to provide oversight, without interference or public grandstanding; • Creating space for professional, productive collaboration between Council, the Commission, and EPS; • And maintaining transparency that is based on facts, not assumptions or personal agendas. It’s time to put egos aside and refocus on what matters: making Edmonton safer and building trust with the community. That takes leadership, not theatrics — and that’s what I bring to the table.

Mohammad Ali Kamal: No response.

Larry Langley: By listening

Jackie Liu: It's a new day - there is a new police chief, there will likely be many new councillors. Starting with the intention of collaboration with Edmonton's single largest public service is a good place to start, and it never needed to be acrimonious in the first place. Police have the same accountability to the public, and perhaps greater, than the City of Edmonton, and we collectively need to demonstrate to the people that our services, departments, and projects are adding value to Edmonton.

Rupesh Patel: This rebuild needs to start from day one to ensure people trust EPS and Council. It's important not to bash EPS in the public, but also hold EPS account behind the scenes. I would also work with EPS to improve relationships within the community and schools, and even participate in ride a longs to understand what officers go through.

Ward 10 (Ipiihkoohkanipiaohtsi)

1 To Be Elected

Ramey Demian: Trust is earned, not just implied or spoken about. Council must stop treating the police as adversaries, but the problem goes beyond the Edmonton Police Service. I hear the same concerns from our Edmonton Transit Service, from our firefighters dealing with aging equipment, and even from City staff and civil servants who feel undervalued. These are the people and services we all depend on, and when they are unhappy, the entire city feels the impact. Edmonton now has a new Chief of Police, Warren Driechel, and I have spoken with him. He is committed to working with City Council and the next mayor to rebuild a stronger, safer Edmonton. We should not lose this opportunity to mend broken relationships and start fresh. Rebuilding trust requires respect and collaboration. Council must set clear goals, provide the resources frontline services need, and hold leadership accountable through transparent performance measures. At the same time, open communication with residents, EPS, ETS, fire, and City staff is essential. When those who serve our city feel supported, respected, and listened to, Edmontonians will see the results in safer streets, reliable services, and stronger communities.

Beth Mathison: No response.

Jon Morgan: I'm a frontline transit employee. I work alongside EPS and rely on their services almost daily. I know the value of law enforcement and what they bring. I also know that in my advocacy for them, they aren't the solution to every problem. Putting them into unwinnable situations doesn't make them the good guys and we need them to be. In talking to many on the frontlines of EPS, I know how overworked they are, going from call to call to call, starting their shifts 60 or 70 calls deep - many of which never get answered because there simply isn't the manpower. We need to ensure that police are doing the jobs that they are trained for while our leaders need to be proactive in working to solve the bigger societal issues that have put a strain on all of our frontline services from EPS to EMS to Fire. Supporting EPS means knowing their role, their struggles, and where they excel while moving ensuring the appropriate response goes to the appropriate challenge.

Fahad Mughal: Trust between City Council, the Police Commission, and the Edmonton Police Service can only be rebuilt through honesty, consistency, and clear accountability. My approach would start with transparency—ensuring that both data and decisions are shared openly with the public. When residents can see how and why decisions are made, confidence grows naturally. I would also focus on collaboration built on respect for roles. Council should set clear priorities and outcomes, the Commission should provide independent oversight, and EPS should be empowered to deliver results within that framework. Everyone should be working toward the same goal: safer communities and smarter use of resources. As someone who has worked inside City operations and managed complex teams, I understand how communication breaks down when trust is missing. My focus will be on rebuilding that trust through regular dialogue, performance metrics, and accountability for results—not politics.

Funke Olokude: No response.

Nicholas Rheubottom: Edmontonians deserve to feel safe in every part of our city. That starts with backing our police service and giving officers the tools and resources they need to do their jobs effectively. At the same time, trust has been damaged by years of conflict between the Police Commission, Council, and EPS. I would work to end the constant infighting by refocusing everyone on our shared priority: keeping residents safe. This includes investing in community policing that builds relationships at the neighbourhood level, so residents feel both safe and supported. It also means tackling disorder on our streets and transit, while partnering with social services to address root causes like addiction and mental health. Safety must come first, but compassion is part of how we achieve lasting results.

Jennifer Rice: No response.

Ward 11 (Karhiio)

1 To Be Elected

Jason Bale: Regular meetings, open communication, and bringing back community policing initiatives.

Manny Bautista: No response.

Joti Buttar: Rebuilding trust starts with open communication, respect, and a shared commitment to public safety. The relationship between City Council, the Police Commission, and the Edmonton Police Service must be collaborative. I believe in accountability paired with support ensuring our officers have the resources they need while also maintaining strong oversight and transparency. I would advocate for regular joint meetings, clear performance reporting, and more community-based dialogue so residents understand both safety efforts and spending. Effective policing requires partnership between Council, police, and the public (community leaders, ethnic groups, faith groups, community leagues) grounded in trust, accountability, and a shared goal of keeping every Edmontonians safe.

Yogesh Garg: No response.

Hali Kaur: No response.

Paul Mah: No response.

Atiq Rehman: No response.

Avinash Soochit: No response.

Keren Tang: No response.

Ward 12 (Sspomitapi)

1 To Be Elected

Imran Bashir: No response.

Annie Chua-Frith: Rebuilding trust between the Edmonton Police Service, the Police Commission, and City Council requires more than policy—it demands leadership rooted in transparency, collaboration, and community accountability. As a candidate, I believe in fostering respectful dialogue, setting clear boundaries, and ensuring that public safety reflects the values and lived experiences of all Edmontonians. My approach would include: - Restoring Transparent Oversight: Ensure that the Police Commission operates independently and with clear public reporting. Council must support oversight that is both firm and fair, with decisions grounded in data, community input, and long-term impact. - Centering Community Voices: Public safety must be shaped by those most affected. I would advocate for regular, inclusive engagement with residents—especially youth, newcomers, and marginalized communities—to inform priorities and rebuild trust. - Fostering Collaborative Leadership: Encourage joint planning between EPS, the Commission, and Council on key issues like mental health response, neighborhood safety, and budget alignment. Collaboration must be proactive, not reactive. - Demanding Accountability with Compassion: Hold all parties accountable for outcomes, not just intentions. That includes transparent budgeting, clear performance metrics, and a commitment to continuous improvement—without vilifying frontline workers or dismissing community concerns. As someone who values diplomacy, discernment, and ethical leadership, I’ll work to ensure that Edmonton’s public safety systems are not only effective, but trusted and inclusive.

Harman Singh Kandola: Public safety is one of the most important responsibilities of City Hall, and the relationship between City Council, the Edmonton Police Service, and the Police Commission needs to be based on trust, accountability, and shared goals. Years of tension have left residents feeling caught in the middle, worried about crime while also frustrated with the lack of transparency around policing decisions and budgets. My approach is to rebuild collaboration by setting clear expectations. The police need to have the resources to keep our communities safe, but they also need to be accountable for how those resources are used. That means clearer reporting, transparent budgeting, and stronger oversight from the Police Commission. At the same time, Council needs to move away from constant conflict with EPS and instead focus on results. Residents want safer streets, safer transit, and a visible plan for addressing crime and disorder. That requires all sides working together. As councillor, I will advocate for stronger partnerships between EPS, community groups, and social agencies, because true public safety comes from addressing both immediate risks and long-term causes. My goal is to ensure Edmontonians can see real improvements in safety while having confidence that their tax dollars are being used wisely and transparently.

Sukhi Randhawa: No response.

Sandeep Singh: No response.

Ashok Sui: No response.

Steve van Diest: Start by removing all the current incumbents, especially those with ideological views. We need to rebuild that relationship and many others that they destroyed by pointing fingers.

Jo-Anne Wright: No response.

Ward 1 (Nakota Isga)

1 To Be Elected

Reed Clarke: No response.

Nicky Gocuan: No response.

Rajah Maggay: No response.

Joseph Mugodo: This is an excellent final question, as transparency about values is key for any candidate running in any election. While municipal elections are non-partisan, I understand that a candidate's broader political perspective provides important insight into how they will govern. My campaign is strictly independent and focused entirely on Edmonton’s municipal issues. However, if asked to identify my personal leanings in the broader political landscape, I would describe my philosophy as Fiscally Conservative, Socially Progressive, and Centrist in Governance. Let me explain a little more below: Fiscally Conservative: The Mandate of the Taxpayer My political affinity aligns most closely with the Conservative Party of Canada (CPC) and the United Conservative Party (UCP) provincially. This affiliation is rooted in my professional background and my core commitment to the taxpayer. I strongly believe in firm budgetary discipline. This means a firm belief in fiscal conservatism, translating to the line-by-line budget review and the commitment to limiting property tax increases to the rate of inflation. I believe the City must stop wasteful spending and reallocate resources efficiently to core services. My focus is on getting maximum value for the taxpayer's dollar, ensuring City Hall is run like a responsible, efficient enterprise that delivers what has been promised to taxpayers, who let's not forget, are the ones funding spending initiatives. That said, my committment to fiscal discipline is balanced by a socially progressive and adaptable approach to municipal policy that is rooted in community collaboration, compassion and evidence-based programs and services. Evidence-Based Solutions: My HEARTSPOT vision demands that we approach social issues, such as the Mental Health and Addiction Crisis, with compassion and evidence. This is why I unequivocally champion public health measures that have shown successful results in other jurisdictions. For example, if safe-consumption sites and single-room-occupancy dwellings are working well in other cities and our city, then I remain open to advocating for and funding more of those projects. If they are not working as projected or are leading to more severe problems within the community, then I am commited to working with stakeholders to develop and implement a more effective solution. Fundamentally, I oppose forced treatment, and advocate for expanding supportive housing—these are progressive policies that save lives and stabilize communities, regardless of political affiliation. Centrist Adaptability: As a centrist, my job at City Hall is not to push a partisan agenda, but to find solutions that work for Edmontonians. I will actively seek collaboration with non-profit groups, community organizations, and all levels of government—whether they are left-leaning or right-leaning—to secure the best outcomes and funding for Edmonton. Effective municipal governance requires putting people before politics. In summary, I bring the financial prudence of a fiscal conservative, but the compassionate and pragmatic flexibility of a social progressive committed to evidence-based, centrist governance.

Diana Steele: This is a social media post I released upon joining PACE. A Step Forward with PACE: Same Spirit, Smarter Strategy: For years, I have maintained my independence, avoiding alignment with political parties. However, running as an independent in today’s political environment presents significant challenges. To address this, I am joining PACE, a non-partisan coalition, which allows me to stay true to my principles while amplifying my voice. My supporters know I have always been vocal and committed, and that will not change. PACE actively recruited me, and I joined without any financial contribution. They conducted thorough due diligence, including multiple interviews, a record check, and reference requests, ensuring each candidate aligns with their vision. They are dedicated to refocusing Edmonton on fundamental priorities, which aligns directly with the foundation of my campaign. PACE is also committed to transformative change while prioritizing new candidates with no ties to the current city council. By collaborating with PACE’s subject matter experts and local advisors, I gain access to valuable insights to strengthen my campaign strategies. This decision reflects my willingness to adapt strategically while remaining steadfast in my values. I invite you to support this effort to reshape Edmonton’s future.

Jordon Woodruff: No response.

Ward 2 (Anirniq)

1 To Be Elected

Ali Al Kassab: I believe that municipal government is about practical solutions, not partisan politics. The issues we face, fixing potholes, ensuring safe communities, and managing your tax dollars are not liberal or conservative issues; they are Edmonton issues. I am an independent, not a member of any municipal, provincial or federal political party. My only allegiance is to the residents of Edmonton. I have chosen this path because I believe a city councilor must be an independent voice, able to collaborate with any government in power, municipal, provincial, or federal to get the best results for our city. My decisions at City Hall will be guided by evidence, the input of my constituents, and what I believe is best for Edmonton’s future, not by the platform of any other level of government.

Nurmaiya Brady: No response.

Rob Fediuk: No response.

Ali Haymour: While my main focus is on local issues, such as, roads, services, safety, infrastructure, not partisan politics. That said, I understand why voters want to know where candidates stand ideologically. It helps people get a better sense of our values and decision-making approach. I would describe myself as being right of center on the political spectrum. I believe in fiscal responsibility, accountability, common-sense governance, and making sure taxpayer dollars are respected and used wisely. I also believe in supporting working families, public safety, and protecting individual freedoms. At the municipal level, my focus is on practical solutions, not political labels. I'm here to serve the people of Edmonton, and I’ll always put the needs of our community first.

Erin Rutherford: No response.

Aggripa Wajo: I am running as an independent candidate in this election. The question will be how do I navigate partisan pressures, manage intergovernmental relationships, and ensure that my decisions put the interests of my constituents first. There may be political pressures and pressures from interest groups that lobby to sway independent council members to support or implement their organization's interests. As a councillor, I will evaluate all proposals as whether they align with the needs of the community I stand to serve. That would have been the issue. It is all about the relationship between the council and the provincial or federal government, and the interplay between the party in power and the use of funding as pressure tool. That is unacceptable to me.

Jesse Watson: No response.

Ward 3 (tastawiyiniwak)

1 To Be Elected

Fidel Ammar: No response.

Farhan Chak: I’m not affiliated with any provincial or federal political party. My campaign — and my leadership — are 100% independent. City Hall should serve residents, not political agendas. Municipal politics is about fixing roads, managing taxes, improving safety, and keeping our city livable — not partisan talking points. As councillor, I’ll work with anyone who brings good ideas forward — and I’ll oppose waste or division, no matter where it comes from. I believe in collaboration, transparency, and practical solutions that reflect the needs of real people — not party insiders. Because Edmonton deserves leadership that’s accountable to you — not to a political machine.

Jimmy Clement Idi: I am running as an independent candidate for City Council and am not formally affiliated with any provincial or federal political parties. My focus is on local issues that directly impact Edmontonians, including fair property taxes, housing, safer streets, and reliable snow removal and bike lanes. I believe municipal leadership should be grounded in the needs of the community rather than party politics, allowing me to work collaboratively with all councillors to deliver practical solutions for our city.

Jennifer Porritt: No response.

Karen Principe: No response.

Ward 4 (Dene)

1 To Be Elected

Paul Brake: No response.

Albert Mazzocca: No response.

Lana Palmer: No response.

Aaron Paquette: No response.

Banisha Sandhu: No response.

Jean Pierre Valois: No response.

Ward 5 (O-day'min)

1 To Be Elected

David Aaron: I am not affiliated with any provincial or federal political parties. I believe in serving all members of our community fairly and objectively, and my focus is on addressing local issues based on clear evidence, community input, and the needs of Edmonton residents. My goals are to promote inclusive, balanced policies that reflect the diverse perspectives of our city, rather than aligning with any particular political party. This approach helps me remain focused on the best interests of our community and ensures I can work collaboratively across different viewpoints.

Stephen Hammerschmidt: No response.

James Miller: I'm not affiliated with any provincial or federal party and am running as an independent and am skeptical of "parties that will be disbanded" at the Edmonton civic level after this election.

Lee Permann: No response.

Adil Pirbhai: No response.

Anand Benjamin Pye: No response.

Anne Stevenson: No response.

Patrick Stewart: No response.

Mulugeta (Mully) Tesfay: No response.

Ward 6 (Métis)

1 To Be Elected

Abdulhakim Dalel: No response.

James Gosse: I am not currently affiliated with any provincial or federal political party. I am running as an independent because city council should be accountable to residents, not a party. Municipal issues are practical and local, and I will work with any MLA or MP who can help deliver results for Ward Métis and Edmonton.

Caroline Matthews: No response.

Norm Paradis: I’m not affiliated with any party.

Ashley Salvador: No response.

Justin Thomas: I have a conservative memership.

Ward 7 (sipiwiyiniwak)

1 To Be Elected

Bassam Fares: No response.

Darrell Friesen: No response.

Giselle Quezon General: I am running as an independent candidate. I am not affiliated with any provincial or federal political parties. I believe municipal government should focus on local issues such as roads, transit, waste, policing, housing, and not be distracted by partisan conflicts. My commitment is to listen to residents of Ward sipiwiyiniwak, regardless of their political background, and make decisions in the best interest of our city. I do want to share for the sake of transparency. My accessible, accountable and responsive approach to Everyone who wants to meet, has resulted into endorsements from some local organizations, some unions, and some political commentators that focus on municipal matters.

Danny Heikkinen: After my 2021 municipal campaign, I was honored to be invited to run provincially and went on to earn the nomination as the 2023 UCP candidate for Edmonton-McClung. While I’m running as an independent candidate this time, I remain a committed member of both the federal and provincial conservative parties. Though I’m not endorsed by either party, my lifelong alignment with conservative values - particularly their approach to fiscal policy - continues to shape my perspective. Their principles around responsible spending and economic stewardship have always resonated with me more than any other political platform.

Roger Kotch: No, I believe it can cause you to have to align with what a party wants and not it's citizens. You must have autonomy to vote in the best interests of the public, not the party.

Thu Parmar: No response.

Ken Ropcean: No response.

Ward 8 (papastew)

1 To Be Elected

Joshua Doyle: No response.

Mark Hillman: I am not associated with any Provincial or Federal party. I am running with PACE a municipal party that is here of Edmonton. We chose not to and never will affiliate ourselves with any party in another level of government as we feel we need to work with whom ever the people elect in those positions and do align ourselves compromises our ability to do so. I am not UCP or NDP, I am not Liberal or Conservative i am here for Edmontonians and will work with whom ever is elected to parliament hill or the legislature.

Terrie Holgerson: No response.

Rozalia Janiszewska: I am not currently a member of any provincial or federal political party, or municipal party for that matter

Michael Janz: No response.

Ward 9 (pihêsiwin)

1 To Be Elected

Sara Awatta: No response.

Michael Elliott: I am not affiliated with any provincial or federal political party. I’m running in this municipal election as part of a team called Better Edmonton, alongside Councillor Tim Cartmell. We’ve come together because we share a belief that City Council needs to move away from operating in silos and pushing personal or ideological agendas — and instead, start working together as a team to deliver real results for Edmontonians. Better Edmonton isn’t a political party — it’s a team built on collaboration, common sense, and respect for taxpayers. We’re focused on practical solutions for issues like public safety, affordability, and infrastructure — not partisanship. City Hall decisions should be grounded in local priorities, not political affiliations, and I believe voters deserve councillors who are committed to working constructively, regardless of political leanings. That’s the kind of leadership I bring — focused, cooperative, and dedicated to what’s best for Edmonton.

Mohammad Ali Kamal: No response.

Larry Langley: Not affiliated, running as an independent voice for the people of this ward

Jackie Liu: No, I have no affiliation with any provincial parties. That said, I've had the occasion to work with all levels of government, and different parties in my career, and so have contacts and friends from all of UCP, NDP, and Liberal parties. I'm ready to work with any elected office from any party affiliation.

Rupesh Patel: I am not a member of any provincial or federal party.

Ward 10 (Ipiihkoohkanipiaohtsi)

1 To Be Elected

Ramey Demian: I am running as an independent candidate because City Council should not be about provincial or federal party politics. I do not see how a political party can license or define the needs of its citizens. Too often, party leaders demand loyalty from their members in decision-making, and that loyalty overrides the voices of residents. We only need to look abroad to see why this is a problem. In the United Kingdom, local councillors in London have faced pressure to vote along party lines on housing and redevelopment projects, even when their residents were opposed. Party discipline came before community needs. We also see this closer to home in Vancouver, one of the few Canadian cities with municipal political parties. There, parties like the NPA, COPE, Vision Vancouver, and OneCity run slates of candidates, and councillors are often expected to vote with their party’s platform. This means that important local issues — from housing to taxation — are too often filtered through party politics rather than decided independently for the good of residents. That is precisely what I want to avoid in Edmonton. My independence allows me to advocate freely for taxpayers, focus on local issues, and work with anyone willing to put Edmonton first. With new leadership on Council and at City Hall, we have an opportunity to rebuild trust in how our city is governed, and independence is the key to making that happen.

Beth Mathison: No response.

Jon Morgan: I believe in true independence at the municipal level. I am not supported by any political party at the municipal level nor am I backed by any federal or provincial party. While my opponents doorknock and rub shoulders with representatives from the NDP and the UCP, I believe we need to work with everyone and have built my team as such with volunteers on both sides of the political spectrum supporting me. I can't choose who the Premier or Prime Minister is, nor can I choose who the mayor or other councillors are - I have to work with whoever is at the table.

Fahad Mughal: Not affiliated with any party. Running as an independent candidate.

Funke Olokude: No response.

Nicholas Rheubottom: I am not affiliated with any provincial or federal political party. I am running with Better Edmonton, a municipal party that has no ties to higher-level politics. Municipal government should stay focused on local priorities, not provincial ideology. A municipal party can actually make council more effective by fostering collaboration and coordinated policy development. Better Edmonton is rooted in shared principles like taxes, city-building, and safety, which strengthens accountability and helps councillors deliver real results for residents.

Jennifer Rice: No response.

Ward 11 (Karhiio)

1 To Be Elected

Jason Bale: No, I do not hold a political party membership and am not backed by any parties at any level of government.

Manny Bautista: No response.

Joti Buttar: I’m running as part of a team a local slate that shares a common vision for a stronger, safer, and more affordable Edmonton. While we collaborate on shared priorities such as improving core services, traffic management, safety, and fiscal responsibility, I’m not aligned with any provincial or federal political party. Our slate is entirely focused on Edmonton and local issues. I believe teamwork at the municipal level helps create consistency and accountability, allowing councillors to work together more effectively to deliver real results for residents, rather than being divided by partisanship.

Yogesh Garg: No response.

Hali Kaur: No response.

Paul Mah: No response.

Atiq Rehman: No response.

Avinash Soochit: No response.

Keren Tang: No response.

Ward 12 (Sspomitapi)

1 To Be Elected

Imran Bashir: No response.

Annie Chua-Frith: I am running as an independent candidate for City Council in Ward Sspomitapi, and I am not affiliated with any provincial or federal political party. My decision to remain independent reflects my commitment to ethical, transparent municipal leadership that puts community priorities ahead of partisan interests. Municipal government is about listening to residents, solving local challenges, and building inclusive, practical solutions—whether it’s waste collection, housing, or public safety. These issues deserve thoughtful, community-rooted leadership, not political polarization. I believe in working collaboratively with all levels of government, but my accountability is first and foremost to the people of Edmonton. As someone deeply involved in grassroots advocacy and multicultural community building, I’ve seen how trust is earned through transparency, not party lines. I bring a clear set of values—fiscal responsibility, inclusion, and long-term stewardship—and I’m committed to making decisions based on what’s best for our city, not what’s best for any political brand.

Harman Singh Kandola: I am running as an independent municipal candidate because I believe local government should be focused on solving local problems, not provincial or federal politics. City Council is about making sure the roads are maintained, transit is reliable, taxes are affordable, and neighbourhoods are safe. Those are issues that affect every resident, regardless of political affiliation. Like many Edmontonians, I have personal views and I have worked with people across the political spectrum, but I am not running under any provincial or federal banner. My commitment is to the residents of Ward Sspomitapi. I will listen to them first and always make decisions based on what is best for our community, not on what any political party says. I believe City Hall needs less partisanship and more focus on practical solutions. That is the kind of leadership I will bring if elected.

Sukhi Randhawa: No response.

Sandeep Singh: No response.

Ashok Sui: No response.

Steve van Diest: I am no Elbows up. The NDP/Liberals have to go at all levels! I voted for Pierre Polliveve

Jo-Anne Wright: No response.