Election Survey 2025 - Mayoral Candidates

Mayor

1 To Be Elected

Paul Bakhmut: Over the past three years, I was part of Canada’s best public service digital modernization team as Senior Policy Advisor to the Technology and Innovation Minister at the Government of Alberta. We cut processes from months to days, moved dozens of services online across government, saved taxpayers tens of millions of dollars and launched a digital version of Alberta health card that did not see a change since 1969. I learned how to make things a priority, ask the right questions, build support from political leaders, administration and industry stakeholders, and get things across the finish line despite time and resource constraints. Before that, I worked as Digital Content Lead to the Premier of Alberta. This experience taught me how to communicate effectively at the highest levels of government and tell the story of Alberta to the world. My first experience in public service was at Edmonton City Hall as Senior Council Assistant, where I learned how the City works and what the Mayor and the Council actually do. But when I first came to Edmonton fifteen years ago, I had big dreams and not much else. My first jobs were in fast food kitchens, and step by step I built a life in the city I now proudly call home. Those early days taught me something I carry into this campaign: everyone deserves a fair shot, no matter where they start. Edmonton should be a place where every family, business, and community has the opportunity to thrive.

Ronald Stewart Billingsley, Jr.: My experience as a NYC and AB lawyer (although currently suspended) gives me the knowledge set to advocate in Court for those issues that are most important in my platform, for example, arguing for the enfranchisement of permanent residents, which we will be in Court in January on a preliminary issue of legal standing; and also possibly still try to reverse the demolition of the old Coliseum to be a centralized homeless shelter instead; and also I would defend in Court my decision, if I could convince city council to back me, on taxing places of worship. I have also been a small business owner/ CEO (my law firm), which taught me the struggles of owning a small business. They are the backbone of our economy. I would put pressure on the federal government to reduce corporate tax on small businesses, and increase it on larger businesses, with some threshold gross corporate income to divide the two. I would reduce barriers to open a business, expedite permits, etc. I also trained as a teacher in 2008. All of these roles I have had in the past uniquely position me to lead the next city council.

Tim Cartmell: I bring a combination of technical, managerial, and civic experience that directly aligns with the responsibilities of this role. Before entering public service, I built a successful career as a professional engineer and small business owner. For over 25 years, I’ve designed, managed, and delivered major infrastructure projects — from seniors’ lodges and recreation centres to the Edmonton Expo Centre. That work demanded accountability, attention to detail, and the ability to bring diverse teams together to deliver projects on time and on budget. As an engineer, I learned how to solve complex problems by listening first, analyzing the data, and then acting decisively. As a business owner, I’ve had to balance budgets, meet payroll, and understand the real-world impacts of government decisions on families and employers. And as a City Councillor, I’ve seen firsthand how decisions at City Hall ripple through neighbourhoods and local businesses — and how good planning and collaboration can make the difference between frustration and progress. This blend of technical knowledge, fiscal discipline, and community understanding has shaped how I lead. I approach every challenge with a focus on practical results, long-term value, and respect for the people affected. I know how to move large, complicated projects forward, how to hold teams accountable, and how to ensure that public investments deliver real benefits. Above all, I bring the perspective of someone who has lived, worked, and built in this city my entire life — someone who believes that Edmonton can be managed better, built smarter, and made stronger for everyone.

Tony Caterina: No response.

Abdul Malik Chukwudi: I have over 25 years of experience in the energy sector- oil and Gas drilling Projects,offshore Expolration deep sea projects and Coal mining projects in Bristish columbia ,I have worked as an employee for the City of Edmonton in several depatment , and am a small business owner with an office in chinatown. These roles have strengthened my skills in project management, strategic planning, and stakeholder collaboration. Combined, they give me a practical perspective on delivering results, understanding municipal operations, and supporting business and community needs—skills directly relevant to this role.

Vanessa Denman: My background is in Finance and Marketing, with a Bachelor of Management degree and over a decade of experience as a Business Intuitive coach. Before that, I worked extensively in property and condominium management. In that role, I advised boards of directors, managed teams, oversaw budgets and expenditures, and maintained strong relationships with both owners and contractors. This experience directly mirrors the responsibilities of City Council: balancing diverse needs, making tough financial decisions, and ensuring that services are delivered effectively. In addition, my coaching work has trained me to listen deeply, cut through limiting perspectives, and bring clarity to complex challenges. Together, these skills give me the ability to guide Edmonton with both business discipline and human understanding—ensuring that our City grows responsibly, sustainably, and with respect for the people who live here.

Andy Andrzej Gudanowski: Independent candidate. Retired investigator, Social and Political Activist since 2005. Political Marketing Advisor since 2013, Natural Medicine Advisor & Basic Psychology currently. My political views are Moderate Conservatism. Maximum general education: College level, Police Science Institute USA, BC Institute of Marine Technology Vancouver, Alberta Private Investigators Training Edmonton. Firefighter and Medical Assistant, Georgian College, Port Colborne, ON, Former Candidate for City Councillor Poland - 2006 Former Candidate for Edmonton City Councillor, elections 2013, 2017, 2021. Former Candidate for MLA Alberta, elections 2019, 2023. Former Candidate for MP - 2019 Candidate for Edmonton Mayor - 2025 Strong Leader, Courage, Responsible, Conscientious, a man of his word. Devoted to the People. After years of experience, I have created 247 programs to make a positive difference in people's lives. I am re-entering politics with: dedication, passion, and commitment to fight for growth and change. To harness the collective power of all of Edmonton and provide everyone with the support they need to pursue their dreams.

Rahim Jaffer: I was a four term federal Member of Parliament where I served as caucus chair negotiating, coordinating with over a hundred MPs to keep things running. I am also a serial entrepreneur and owner of the Rooster Kitchen and Bar on Whyte Avenue. I know the trials and tribulations business owners are going through with higher taxes and permitting departments that don't talk to each other - I've lived it. I've had to make difficult cuts to insure my business survived CVOID. But I also embrased the arts community and have incorporated them in to my business model.

Andrew Knack: No response.

Omar Mohammad: No response.

Utha Nadauk: I bring a professional background as a software engineer, financial adviser, mediator, volunteer and ILI Specialist, combined with deep community involvement in Edmonton. My experience has taught me how to solve complex problems, manage large projects within budget, and bring people together to find common ground. These skills translate directly into the role of Mayor, where we need pragmatic leadership, fiscal discipline, and the ability to listen and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.

Olney Tugwell: No response.

Michael Walters: As a two-term city councillor, community organizer, and small-business owner, I’ve delivered practical results and know how to focus on core priorities. On council, I led the City’s first Affordable Housing Investment Plan and helped deliver 438 new units, while working with EPCOR on flood-prevention upgrades that protect ratepayers from costly failures. I also worked directly with residents and merchants to turn the failing Petrolia Mall into a functioning community hub. I served as Council’s Energy Transition and Climate Resilience lead, helping develop the Community Energy Transition Strategy. In the private sector, running a downtown office sharpened my focus on safety and efficient city service. As mayor, I will keep spending on essentials and hold taxes to inflation by prioritising renewal over new megaprojects, requiring clear metrics and public reporting for major files, and cutting red tape so residents and businesses have faster permits, more housing options that fit neighbourhoods, and real choice in how they live and work.

Mayor

1 To Be Elected

Paul Bakhmut: Taxes, safety and services that work like it’s 1985. We need to open the books to see where the money is going, make it easy to build in Edmonton so businesses don’t leave, and change existing business supports to help entrepreneurs succeed. My approach to safety will be humane and firm, and we will have a plan to move all City services from the past into the future.

Ronald Stewart Billingsley, Jr.: Homelessness, which disproportionately affects First Nations, and/or the mentally ill and those suffering from addictions --> I have been clear on this that we need a large scale centralized shelter with wraparound supports, education, training, nurses, etc. all available. If elected, I look forward to the challenge of balancing the city budget - I would trim the fat off for key services and priorities in my platform; advocating for more climate change initiatives; keeping power in city council and the mayor's seat regarding municipal issues and standing up to provincial government overreach; crime control with more police presence, cameras, and advocating for arming security guards; increasing public transportation options, frequency, safety and parking at the further LRT stations; higher pay and benefits for all first responders; advocating for higher pay for teachers and professors; I have lots of ideas, those are just some.

Tim Cartmell: Edmonton is facing some very real challenges right now — challenges that affect how people live, work, and move around our city every single day. The three biggest issues, in my view, are safety, affordability, and the way we manage major projects and traffic in our city. First, families don’t feel as safe as they used to — not downtown, not on transit, and too often not in their own neighbourhoods. We need to restore confidence in our city by focusing on visible, community-based policing, faster response times, and real coordination between enforcement, social services, and the justice system. Safety has to be the foundation for everything else. Second, affordability. Edmonton now has some of the highest property taxes in the country, and residents are tired of paying more while seeing less in return. We need to get back to basics — managing our budget responsibly, setting clear priorities, and delivering core services efficiently. That means tackling construction delays, cutting red tape for housing and businesses, and ensuring every dollar we spend delivers real value to taxpayers. Finally, we need to fix how we plan and deliver major infrastructure projects. Too many road closures, overlapping construction schedules, and cost overruns have created frustration and gridlock across the city. With my background as an engineer and project manager, I know how to coordinate complex projects, improve timelines, and make sure the right people are accountable. Edmonton deserves infrastructure that supports growth, not gridlock — projects that are well-planned, efficiently executed, and communicated clearly to residents. I believe Edmonton’s best days are ahead of us — but getting there will take leadership that’s honest, practical, and unafraid to make tough decisions. My approach is rooted in collaboration and results: listening to residents, working with other levels of government, and ensuring City Hall delivers what Edmontonians expect — a safer, smarter, stronger city.

Tony Caterina: No response.

Abdul Malik Chukwudi: The biggest issues in Edmonton are housing affordability and homelessness, strained municipal services, public safety, and infrastructure challenges. I would address these by prioritizing efficient budgeting, expanding affordable housing and shelter options, improving public safety programs, investing in smart infrastructure, and supporting small businesses to strengthen the local economy.

Vanessa Denman: The top issues I see are: Housing & Affordability – Edmonton needs more housing options that are attainable for everyday families. My approach is to support responsible infill, streamline approvals, and partner with the Province and Federal government on affordability programs. Safety & Community Well-being – From public transit to downtown, Edmontonians want to feel safe. I will champion stronger partnerships between social services, enforcement, and community groups, while tackling root causes like addiction and homelessness. City Budget & Property Taxes – Rising costs are straining households. I will prioritize core services, improve efficiency, and ensure tax dollars are spent wisely. Infrastructure Renewal – Roads, sidewalks, snow clearing, and parks matter to quality of life. I will advocate for a dedicated maintenance budget and transparent timelines so residents know what to expect. My Approach: Balance—between growth and livability, compassion and accountability, and investment and fiscal responsibility. I will listen, work collaboratively, and ensure every decision keeps Edmonton’s future and its people at the heart of it.

Andy Andrzej Gudanowski: 1. We don't have a Mayor and City Councilors. The people who have previously held these positions have forgotten the priorities of the social contract with citizens. They've forgotten about improving their lives, implementing housing programs, and improving the financial situation of the City and Edmontonians. The current Mayor, City Councilors, plus the MLAs and MPs who have offices in the city, have their ears plugged and their hands empty. They prove to us every day that they are not prepared to run the city, are highly incompetent, empty-headed, unable to think clearly, have limited intellectual capacity, and lack social integrity. 2. Health Services and the Health of Edmontonians. My program will make Edmonton the healthiest city in Canada, both physically and mentally. Free conferences and seminars will explain to citizens how to maintain a healthy lifestyle. 3 Program "How to Eliminate Crime and Homelessness to 0 (Zero)" This program will reduce crime and homelessness by 60-80% by the end of 2026. Next to Alberta Works, several Civic Centers will be established in the city, where citizens will be able to obtain medical, psychological and legal care. In addition to the Police and Peace Officers, voluntary patrols of street pastors and street angels will appear on the streets.

Rahim Jaffer: Property Taxes - Have gone up 37% in over the last decade and will rise again 6.4% on January 1. We need to stop this increase and Freeze the Greed. We need to audit every city entity including the arms length entities, and attempt to roll back the taxes with savings found. Infill - the city over shot the mark on urban infill and are trying to shoehorn too much density into spaces and neighbourhoods not designed for it. We need to get Back to Basics at city hall at get infill right. Public Safety - too much crime and vagrancy is going on. We need to Take Back Our Streets, hire 500 additional police officers over the next four years. We need turnstiles on LRT stations, proper pressure washing and refuse removal every morning. And we need to get the addicts, mentally ill, and homeless into the care they need with wrap around services until they can move into permanent supportive housing.

Andrew Knack: No response.

Omar Mohammad: No response.

Utha Nadauk: The top issues are affordability, public safety, and infrastructure renewal. My approach is threefold: Affordability: Keep property tax increases aligned with inflation and population growth while cutting inefficiencies. Public Safety: Invest in core services like police, fire, and emergency response while addressing root causes of crime through housing and mental health supports. Infrastructure: Focus on maintaining what we already have before overextending on new projects. Please see my other vision in my website nadauk4bettercanada.ca

Olney Tugwell: No response.

Michael Walters: Safety, affordability, homelessness, and slow city service delivery are holding Edmonton back. I will push for a predictable police funding formula while expanding mental-health crisis teams and a 100% Transit Safety Guarantee. I will cap tax increases at or below inflation, fix procurement to stop overruns, and focus the majority of the city’s capital spending on renewing what we have. I will build at least 5,000 rental homes a year near LRT, get Blatchford and Exhibition Lands moving, and partner with the Province on shelter, treatment, and 1,500 supportive units.

Mayor

1 To Be Elected

Paul Bakhmut: The purpose of a government is to protect life, liberty, and property. As we share public spaces, land, and roads, the government exists to ensure peace and order and to create conditions for everyone to thrive. This is why we need a fast, efficient government that makes it easy to build businesses, protects citizens and makes life enjoyable. The City should do a much better job at its core functions and open the doors for opportunity by cutting down on wait times that come with antiquated ways of working, and ensure public safety. That’s why I’m proposing a City-wide Digital Plan to modernize all services so we can prioritize, schedule and budget upgrades in a systematic way, creating a Chief Citizen Experience Officer position and Chief Digital Modernization Officers in every department reporting directly to respective Deputy City Managers to lead innovation from the inside. The City also provides a lot of services beyond that, from waste collection to running expensive recreation centres that cost as much as $300 million to build. In Edmonton, the City runs the zoo and you can even mail bugs to the City and they will tell you what they are. Without transparency it's hard to tell how much any of them cost, who is using them and how much value they create. We need to take a look at all services the City provides and see what needs to be continued, expanded or shut down.

Ronald Stewart Billingsley, Jr.: Not enough. I don't think city council, or in particular the Mayor, should be complacent or avoid the tougher, bigger issues. The Mayor should advocate at both the provincial and federal government levels on any and every issue that would benefit Edmontonians. For example, my platform point that servers should not pay tax on tips, I would get a petition going to present to an MP to present in Parliament to make a change to the Income Tax Act. Another example, to mandate solar panels in new developments, I would work with the provincial government on making that happen across Alberta. To increase teachers' pay and benefits, I would put pressure on the provincial government. For my petitions on my website, I would get as many signatures as necessary once in office to gather enough attention to compel Parliament to give them a serious chance in a vote. I'd go so far to give my opinions on geopolitical issues such as the state of global climate change, and the wars currently waging around the globe. Other than all that, I'll make sure there's no potholes, and the snow is cleared, and that construction barricades are removed in any 24 hour period that there are no workers in that area. I mean, those issues are important to many Edmontonians, but I have loftier goals if I were to win the mayoral seat.

Tim Cartmell: Municipal government exists to deliver the services that people rely on every single day — clean water, safe streets, reliable transit, well-maintained roads, parks, and recreation facilities. At its core, it’s about managing the essentials that make a city work and ensuring residents feel safe, supported, and confident in their local government. Right now, I believe the City is trying to do too many things, and as a result, it’s not doing the basics well enough. Edmonton has taken on projects and initiatives that stretch far beyond its core mandate — while core services like road maintenance, snow clearing, transit safety, and project coordination have suffered. When everything becomes a priority, nothing truly is. Municipal government should be focused on results, not rhetoric. It should deliver efficient services, plan and build infrastructure responsibly, and create the conditions for businesses and families to thrive. It should also be transparent and accountable — tracking outcomes, reporting progress, and respecting the dollars that residents work hard to earn. That doesn’t mean cities can’t innovate or lead — but innovation must start with a solid foundation. When we get the fundamentals right, we earn the trust and capacity to take on new challenges. My approach is simple: focus on what matters most, do it well, and make sure Edmontonians can see and feel the results in their daily lives.

Tony Caterina: No response.

Abdul Malik Chukwudi: The role of municipal government is to provide essential services, maintain infrastructure, ensure public safety, support local economic growth, and improve quality of life for residents. In Edmonton, the City often spreads itself too thin, trying to do too many things without focusing enough on core services. I believe it should prioritize efficient delivery of essential services, smart infrastructure investments, and programs that have measurable impact on residents’ daily lives.

Vanessa Denman: The role of municipal government is to provide and protect core services that directly impact daily life—roads, transit, waste, water, parks, and community safety. Cities are also where people experience government most personally, so service delivery must be reliable, transparent, and accessible. Right now, Edmonton is stretched. The City has taken on responsibilities—such as housing and homelessness—that are fundamentally provincial or federal mandates. While these are urgent issues that can’t be ignored, the City must be clear about its role and not spread itself too thin. My view: Edmonton should focus on excellence in its core services, while partnering with higher levels of government for shared challenges. It’s not about doing “too much” or “not enough”—it’s about doing the right things well, and ensuring taxpayer dollars are respected in the process.

Andy Andrzej Gudanowski: The city is doing too little.The Mayor and City Councillors, together with MLA and MP in the City, have a duty to ensute that every citizen has home, access to healthy food, seniors have a decent pension, people have access to work & money to pay bills, citizens are to fill safe at home and on the street, improving citizens lives, lowering taxes, implementing strong housing programs. A minimum of 150 projects should be submitted to the City Council annually by the Mayor and City Councilors alone. Motivate residents to work for the city and its residents, and stop dividing citizens into better and worse. Every program, every piece of legislation must include elements and benefits for all social groups in Edmonton equally. Organize referendums for smaller groups. and individual social groups. Constant search for domestic and foreign investors.

Rahim Jaffer: The municipal government is a corporation, and the mayor and council are the board of directors. The city needs to get Back to Basics and be focusing on core services: Water/Wastewater, Police and Fire, roads and transit and garbage; and get them right first, all of the time, before we start looking at additional tasks.

Andrew Knack: No response.

Omar Mohammad: No response.

Utha Nadauk: The City’s primary role is to deliver core services that keep residents safe, connected, and supported — including public safety, roads, transit, and essential infrastructure. Right now, the City is stretched too thin. We need to focus on doing fewer things, but doing them well.

Olney Tugwell: No response.

Michael Walters: City government must deliver safe, reliable core services, manage growth smartly, and steward taxpayer dollars responsibly. My focus is practical: finish transit projects, cut traffic delays by 25%, cut red tape for businesses, and put most capital toward renewal while advancing targeted growth that strengthens neighbourhoods. That means refocusing on what we can deliver well and partnering with other orders of government where they lead. However, even when an issue, like homelessness, is technically out of our jurisdiction, we have a role to play in solving it and being responsive to the residents of our city. That’s where collaboration with other governments becomes essential to our success as a city—we need to be able to work well with the Province and federal government to deliver what Edmontonians expect.

Mayor

1 To Be Elected

Paul Bakhmut: The property taxes are too high, both commercial and residential. We need competitive rates if we want businesses to grow and stay in Edmonton, and attract new businesses. As we don’t have enough businesses, the City gets most of its revenue from taxing homeowners. Residential property taxes go up every year, but there is no meaningful increase in services that we get for what we pay. This has to stop. We need to make more and spend less. We can get more resources by removing barriers for businesses and directing our business support systems and business attraction efforts to focus on areas of strength in the region. We can also spend less with transparency and opening the books by implementing the Open Contracting Data Standard, and auditing key services like ETS.

Ronald Stewart Billingsley, Jr.: People have been challenging me about my platform point of view on redoing the calculation on developers' share of offsite levies, and infrastructure when building new neighbourhoods and homes. I still think if developers pay a higher percentage of those costs, then the City pays less. Although home costs could slightly increase in those new developments, property taxes could possibly level out because the City would be saving on direct new infrastructure costs. It's just a theory - I'd have to scrutinize the budget, and the calculation and direct savings to the City to see if it would stabilize property tax. In effect, I'd look for any way possible to at least keep property tax stable, with whatever cost offsets and budget cuts I could find working with city council. My point about taxing places of worship would also bring in significant dollars, but I would direct those to humanitarian projects such as homelessness first and foremost.

Tim Cartmell: Short answer: far too high.

Tony Caterina: No response.

Abdul Malik Chukwudi: Property taxes in Edmonton are too high for many residents and small businesses, especially given the City’s spending inefficiencies. I believe we can lower the burden by cutting waste, improving budgeting, and investing strategically in core services that truly benefit the community.

Vanessa Denman: Property taxes are the City’s primary source of revenue, and Edmontonians feel the weight of every increase. Right now, many residents and businesses feel taxes are too high—especially when they don’t see service quality keeping pace with rising costs. Snow clearing, road maintenance, and waste collection are everyday reminders of whether taxes feel “worth it.” My view: It’s not just about the tax rate, it’s about value for money. Edmontonians are willing to contribute when they see efficiency, accountability, and results. As Mayor, I would focus on: Holding the line on unnecessary spending. Prioritizing core services and infrastructure. Driving innovation to deliver better outcomes without automatic tax hikes. The goal is fairness: taxes that are sustainable for residents and businesses, and services that prove every dollar is respected.

Andy Andrzej Gudanowski: Property taxes are too high. My program includes freezing current property taxes for four years and leaving them at their current levels. Those who rent apartments pay excessively high rent, which should be reduced by at least 25 percent. And individuals whose family income does not exceed $40,000 annually should be included in their tax returns, following the example of Ontario and the Northern Territories.

Rahim Jaffer: Property taxes are way too high, especially for business and industrial. Businesses are laving Edmonton for the donut: the four counties around the city, because of the taxes. This means higher taxes for home owners unless we fix this.

Andrew Knack: No response.

Omar Mohammad: No response.

Utha Nadauk: For many Edmontonian, property taxes feel too high — especially when combined with the rising cost of living. My position is to hold increases to inflation and population growth only, ensuring taxes are fair while the City maintains essential services.

Olney Tugwell: No response.

Michael Walters: Property taxes are too high in Edmonton. Given the record 28% hike in property taxes over the last 4 years with this current Council, a 9% increase to transit fares, Edmontonians are paying more and getting less. I will hold tax increases to at or below inflation, freeze transit fares for 4 years, protect affordability for families and seniors, and get better value from every dollar through procurement reform and project accountability.

Mayor

1 To Be Elected

Paul Bakhmut: Edmontonians know how to live within one’s means, and the city should do the same. As we make more, we can spend more, but we cannot spend our way into prosperity. The most important thing is economic growth to bring abundance so we can afford both lower taxes and better services. That's why I would like to see more wealth and increased spending but by less than the rate of inflation and population growth.

Ronald Stewart Billingsley, Jr.: I had to think about this one ... it is a politically loaded question. I would try to keep spending increases below the combined rate of inflation and population growth — in other words, to spend smarter, not more. That means protecting essential services, cutting waste, and focusing every dollar on top priority items, and I have been consistently clear what I view as top priority items in my platform. If we grow our local economy, attract investment, and get better value from city contracts and operations, for example, with my increased cost formula to developers, as well as added property tax revenue (from places of worship), we can start fixing our deficit without asking more from already overburdened taxpayers. What differentiates me is that I am staunch on my top platform principles, and I'm willing to make tough decisions and sell city council to further my objectives. I also advocate for higher pay to first responders and increased crime control measures. To do that, we certainly cannot "spend less in absolute terms." There are some priorities such as the aforementioned that require significant capital expenditures from city council and resulting tough decisions to cut other budget items.

Tim Cartmell: Over the next four years, the City must spend smarter — not more. My position is that spending should increase by the rate of inflation and population growth. Right now, Edmonton is spending at a pace that residents simply can’t afford. Property taxes have risen faster than inflation, faster than population growth, and faster than household incomes. Yet people don’t feel they’re getting better value for what they’re paying. Services have declined, roads are in rough shape, and major projects continue to face delays and cost overruns. That’s not sustainable. We need to reset our priorities. That means finding efficiencies within existing budgets, managing major projects with tighter oversight, and putting every new expenditure through a results-based lens. The goal isn’t to cut for the sake of cutting — it’s to make sure every dollar spent delivers a tangible benefit to Edmontonians. If we can restore discipline to how City Hall manages money, we can deliver better services, reduce waste, and start rebuilding public trust. Edmonton families are tightening their budgets — it’s time City Hall did the same.

Tony Caterina: No response.

Abdul Malik Chukwudi: The City should focus on spending efficiently—aiming to increase budgets only by the rate of inflation and population growth, while cutting waste and put the money where it belongs providing relief and support to Seniors,people with disability,vulnurable people ,improve core essential services a must,prioritizing services,social programs that help vulnurable people- lift them out of poverty,provide relief to small businesses ,that deliver real results and a win for residents and tax payers

Vanessa Denman: City spending should reflect both fiscal responsibility and Edmonton’s real needs. Right now, many Edmontonians feel the City has lost focus—costs keep rising, but service quality isn’t improving. My view: The Good: Edmonton has opportunities to invest strategically in infrastructure renewal, housing, and transit that support long-term prosperity. The Challenge: Unchecked spending leads to higher taxes without better outcomes, creating frustration and mistrust. Bottom Line: Spending should not automatically rise faster than inflation and population growth. Instead, the City must focus on efficiency, prioritizing core services, and ensuring every new dollar spent translates into visible, meaningful value for residents. As Mayor, I will push for disciplined budgets that respect household pressures while investing wisely in the future.

Andy Andrzej Gudanowski: It seems to me that Increase spending at the rate of inflation and population growth it is the best solution. It is important that I know the basic factors of inflation: when do price increases and most often occur, increased demand, pressure on prices, depreciation of money, and increased spending. and consumption. But this is a topic on which I will need advisors.

Rahim Jaffer: Spending increases should not be more than population growth plus inflation.

Andrew Knack: No response.

Omar Mohammad: No response.

Utha Nadauk: The City should increase spending at the rate of inflation and population growth — no faster. This ensures we maintain service levels as Edmonton grows, but without burdening residents with unsustainable tax hikes.

Olney Tugwell: No response.

Michael Walters: Spending growth should be held to at or below inflation and population growth, with a hard focus on renewing existing assets, fixing procurement, and tightening execution so residents see better results without constant hikes.

Mayor

1 To Be Elected

Paul Bakhmut: One can do both, but with the antiquated, paper-heavy, manual payments infrastructure, disbursing payments to all Edmontonians comes at a high cost. From residential taxes to parking tickets, the City still heavily relies on paper mail, fax, and manual processing. I would prioritize modernizing payments that would allow us to have this conversation. There are significant savings we can achieve just by modernizing how the City funds are collected and spent.

Ronald Stewart Billingsley, Jr.: Both options seem at face value attractive. Reminds me of the Alberta Heritage Fund. Perhaps a quasi-Heritage Fund for the City of Edmonton would work as well, that is, if we can balance the budget first, before we even start dreaming about surpluses. Why give "returns in rebates" when the City would just take it back in taxes like property tax? Reminds me of the carbon tax - take, then give back. It does not make sense. Rebates and the carbon tax are merely for "show" - they don't accomplish anything. So, I would save surpluses for future costs of the City.

Tim Cartmell: I don't entirely think this is true. There has been several examples of finding savings a putting those savings back towards the tax base. Could there be more? Absolutely. In principle, any year-end surplus should be used to reduce future tax pressure on residents and businesses. That could mean using a portion to pay down debt, strengthen essential infrastructure reserves, or offset the following year’s tax increase. What it shouldn’t mean is quietly reallocating those funds to new projects that haven’t been publicly debated or prioritized. Edmontonians deserve transparency about where their money goes. If Council claims to have found efficiencies, that should translate into lower costs and visible results — not creative accounting. In business, when you save money, it improves your bottom line; in government, it should improve trust. As Mayor, I would push for a clear surplus policy that ensures savings benefit taxpayers directly, either through responsible debt reduction or through meaningful relief in the next year’s budget. Edmonton families are expected to live within their means — City Hall should do the same.

Tony Caterina: No response.

Abdul Malik Chukwudi: Any surplus should benefit taxpayers directly- The working class,the middle class and small businesses. I believe leftover funds should either be returned to residents through a rebate or used transparently for paying down debt, rather than being quietly spent on new projects without accountability,oversight and transparency

Vanessa Denman: This comes down to trust and transparency. When residents hear “savings,” they expect relief—not creative reallocation. My view: The Good: Savings can provide stability if they are genuinely set aside for reserves, emergencies, or long-term capital projects. The Challenge: Too often, “savings” are redirected into new spending, leaving taxpayers feeling misled. Bottom Line: True surpluses should first reduce financial pressure on residents—through tax relief or rebates. Only after that should reserves be considered, and always with clear, public justification. As Mayor, I will ensure budget “savings” actually serve Edmontonians—not just City Hall.

Andy Andrzej Gudanowski: I definitely support returning money to taxpayers in the form of tax breaks or other forms. A reserve account is also a very good idea. Regarding money, the mayor and city councilors should be wise enough and have the wisdom to be able to obtain money for the city from various sources, government and private institutions, rather than extracting money from their citizens.

Rahim Jaffer: While it will depend on the amount placed in reserves, the first step we need to under take here is a wholesale reduction in spending to stop the 6.4% property taxes increase from going ahead January 1.

Andrew Knack: No response.

Omar Mohammad: No response.

Utha Nadauk: A balanced approach is best. Some savings should be directed into reserves for long-term stability and emergency preparedness. But when significant surpluses exist, the City should look at returning a portion to taxpayers, either through rebates or future tax relief.

Olney Tugwell: No response.

Michael Walters: If the City of Edmonton has money left over in its budget, it should go towards reducing the financial burden on Edmontonians. There are a few ways to do this. This city council has irresponsibly drained our financial reserves from $140 million to just $20 million and nearly maxed out our debt policy. We need to ensure we have healthy reserves in case of emergency and restoring that will be a priority of mine, same as reducing our existing debt load which ends up costing Edmontonians in interest and foregone investments. These are not nice-to-haves but essential to our long-term health as a city. This means we can restrict tax increases because we have our fiscal house in order. Rather than exploring a rebate, I would push for the City to reduce taxation levels for more durable financial relief.

Mayor

1 To Be Elected

Paul Bakhmut: The City currently provides permits, land, construction grants, development support and builds housing with grants from other levels of government. The first thing the City can do is stop making housing more expensive. Today it takes 120 days to get a permit to build a new apartment building. The permitting process can be much faster and more efficient. Other level of governments already subsidize housing for lower-income residents. My priority is to look at all services the City provides to lower-income residents and make them fast and useful before launching new programs.

Ronald Stewart Billingsley, Jr.: A combination of the two. I support subsidized housing especially for seniors, students, and the disabled, and low income people and families, such as those on AISH or Income Support. Keeping the cost of housing from getting out of control, we need to build more, and fast, to keep up with the demand of a booming population. Low supply, high demand equals higher prices. High supply to meet the high demand and the cost of housing should level. I've already stated that I like the idea of building up, i.e. higher buildings, instead of constant growth outwards. Cities of the future will look more like Manhattan than sprawling Los Angeles. Population densification is inevitable, and I concur with some of the points in the City Plan such as the 8 units per infill issue, and the increase in active transportation such as bike lanes. I think those stances are on the right track. I also advocate for using vacant office buildings for homeless and/or subsidized housing as well. That would be an easy increase in supply if we can get building owners incentivized to do this.

Tim Cartmell: When we talk about “affordable housing,” it’s important to recognize that the housing spectrum is broad — it ranges from emergency shelters and supportive housing, to entry-level rentals, to attainable homes for first-time buyers. Each part of that spectrum matters, and each requires a different approach. For me, affordable housing means ensuring that people at all income levels can find a safe, stable place to live without being priced out of their community. That doesn’t mean the City should take on the role of developer or landlord — but it does mean we should be a strong partner in creating the conditions that make housing more accessible and attainable. Yes, there’s a role for the City in supporting lower-income residents, particularly by working with the provincial and federal governments — who have the proper funding tools and mandates — to deliver subsidized and supportive housing. But the City also has a responsibility to manage zoning, permitting, and infrastructure in a way that keeps the overall cost of housing from getting out of control. When the process to build is clear, consistent, and efficient, more homes get built — and that helps everyone.

Tony Caterina: No response.

Abdul Malik Chukwudi: To me, affordable housing means homes that people can realistically pay for without financial strain. The City should do both: subsidize housing for lower-income residents and implement policies to keep overall housing costs stable, through incentives for developers, rent caps, and expanding accessible housing options.

Vanessa Denman: Affordable housing means that people—whether seniors, families, or young adults—can live in Edmonton without spending most of their income just to keep a roof over their heads. My view: The Good: Targeted subsidies for vulnerable residents are important, because housing is a basic need and stability supports the whole community. The Challenge: Subsidies alone won’t fix the problem. Without increasing supply and addressing costs, we risk driving prices higher or creating dependence. Bottom Line: The City must do both—partner on subsidized housing for those in need and manage growth to keep the overall cost of housing reasonable. That means smarter zoning, faster permitting, and working with the private and non-profit sectors to add diverse housing options. As Mayor, I will focus on balanced, long-term strategies that ensure affordable housing is not just a promise, but a reality across Edmonton.

Andy Andrzej Gudanowski: In Edmonton, we have 48,000 social and community apartments. So far, no one has come up with the idea of ​​reselling these apartments for at least 10% of market value to people who have lived in them for at least 15 years, and then using a new, dedicated budget to continue building new apartments. This is what happens in Poland, where social housing is particularly supported by the national and provincial governments. The City of Edmonton will, of course, join this initiative as soon as its citizens decide on my candidacy for mayor. Nevertheless, the city must make every effort to minimize the number of low-income residents.

Rahim Jaffer: Affordable housing is the housing one moves into after having been shelter. It is permanent and supportive. Rents are fully or partially covered depending on circumstances. The province is not doing a good enough job in providing the affordable housing Edmonton requires. The province forgets that Edmonton alone cannot support all of the homeless who come down from northern Alberta, the Territories, northern BC and Saskatchewan and end up on the streets of Edmonton. Hence the city has moved into the space with all manner of projects and supports all over the map and the numbers of people who need housing are not going away.

Andrew Knack: No response.

Omar Mohammad: No response.

Utha Nadauk: For me, affordable housing means ensuring that everyone — from students to seniors to working families — can find a safe and reasonably priced place to live. The City should pursue a combination: Partner with other governments and non-profits to provide subsidized housing for the most vulnerable. Remove barriers and streamline approvals to keep overall housing supply strong, so prices do not spiral out of control.

Olney Tugwell: No response.

Michael Walters: As I use it, “affordable housing” means two things at once: more homes that ordinary families can afford, and the right kinds of homes with supports for residents who cannot afford market rent. So my answer is both. We need a strong affordable housing market by building where it makes sense and fixing approvals, and directly supporting lower-income residents with supportive and non-market homes. I’ll target 5,000 rental units per year near LRT, move key infill sites like Blatchford and Exhibition Lands, and pair this with 1,500 supportive units, day-shelter capacity, and treatment partnerships with the Province so people can exit homelessness for good.

Mayor

1 To Be Elected

Paul Bakhmut: The role of public sector unions is to advocate for their members to ensure fair pay and good working conditions. When working with the unions, it is important to communicate frequently, truly listen to their concerns, and clearly articulate your goals. I would start with building a strong relationship with union leadership and working together to build the best public service in Canada. If we can put politics aside and improve City operations together, we can improve pay and conditions for public sector union members.

Ronald Stewart Billingsley, Jr.: I am pro-Union, as they are imperative to protect various groups of people, and working families. They bring bargaining power to the table in dispute resolution. That does not concern me. I do not buy into the argument that union negotiations would compromise fiscal responsibility. I think that is a false assumption. Both parties in negotiations should be at equal bargaining power, and unions ensure that workers are empowered in any city contract negotiations.

Tim Cartmell: Public sector unions play an important role in delivering the services Edmontonians rely on every day. The people who clear our roads, maintain our parks, operate our transit system, and provide front-line support across the city take pride in their work — and they deserve fair, respectful treatment. Strong labour relations are key to keeping our city running smoothly. That said, fairness has to go both ways. As stewards of taxpayers’ dollars, we must ensure that collective agreements are sustainable, transparent, and aligned with the City’s financial reality. Edmonton can’t afford wage settlements or benefit structures that outpace inflation, population growth, or the private sector’s capacity to pay. Every dollar we commit to ongoing operating costs is a dollar that can’t be invested in public safety, roads, or housing. As Mayor, I would take a collaborative but disciplined approach to bargaining — one that values employees while protecting taxpayers. That means clear financial parameters before negotiations begin, public reporting on total compensation costs, and a commitment to continuous improvement and efficiency within our workforce. The goal isn’t to erode public service — it’s to ensure we can sustain it. Responsible, respectful negotiations build stability, protect jobs, and keep the City focused on what matters most: delivering reliable, affordable services to Edmontonians.

Tony Caterina: No response.

Abdul Malik Chukwudi: Public sector unions play an important role in protecting workers’ rights, but negotiations must balance fairness with fiscal responsibility. I would ensure transparency, set clear budget limits, and negotiate agreements that reward performance and efficiency while protecting essential services.

Vanessa Denman: Public sector unions play a vital role in delivering essential city services, protecting workers, and maintaining standards. That said, negotiations must balance fairness with fiscal responsibility. As Mayor, I would ensure transparency, engage unions early, and seek creative solutions—such as performance-based incentives—that protect both workers and taxpayers.

Andy Andrzej Gudanowski: Unions were formed when employers began to engage in unfair practices against their employees. In such moments, people turned to their elected politicians for help, but even then they were left without help. Back then, there was always only one option: forming unions. Now that unions are already in the public sector, we must respect this, cooperate with them effectively, support them, and give them the opportunity to further develop, until we, the politicians, also take our work seriously.

Rahim Jaffer: The unions are important partners to ensure fair representation at negotiation and reporting of OH&S issues in the workplace. That would include mental health OH&S issues. Clear and open and consistent dialogue is required. I hope to meet with all of the union executive leadership within the first month on the job.

Andrew Knack: No response.

Omar Mohammad: No response.

Utha Nadauk: Public sector unions play a critical role in ensuring safe workplaces and fair treatment. I believe in respectful and transparent negotiations. At the same time, it’s essential that agreements reflect the City’s financial realities. As Mayor, I will balance fiscal responsibility with a commitment to fair labour practices.

Olney Tugwell: No response.

Michael Walters: City workers deliver the services residents rely on and I respect the unions that represent these workers. I will bargain respectfully, focused on outcomes residents feel: safer streets, cleaner parks, reliable transit, and timely permitting. That comes with transparent metrics, strong project controls, and budgets held to inflation so agreements are sustainable for taxpayers.

Mayor

1 To Be Elected

Paul Bakhmut: It’s good to have a plan, both short-term and long-term, as long as it makes sense for the people. Edmontonians want leadership to improve their lives. Our work on sustainability can help Edmontonians by cutting utility bills with energy efficiency or it can annoy people with a 25 cent bag fee. We need smart measures that make lives better, not slogans. Climate is an important goal, but it’s not the only goal and must be balanced with other priorities.

Ronald Stewart Billingsley, Jr.: I would set an even more aggressive long-term climate commitment, like "net zero" as soon as possible. 2050 seems too far away for this. It should be one of the highest priorities for the welfare of our future generation, up there with solving homelessness and public safety. I have consistently advocated for the use of renewable energy, such as electricity, over oil and gas. I support solar panels and electric vehicles, and I think it is a myth that electric vehicles cannot sustain extreme cold. They can, they do. If all makes and models were electric, we could have generic charging stations where gas stations used to be. I stood for this during my federal MP campaign as well. I have not changed my mind on that. I would bring pressure wherever I could to get these objectives prioritized.

Tim Cartmell: As an engineer, I understand that many of the biggest climate challenges cities face are, at their core, infrastructure challenges. Whether it’s managing stormwater through dry ponds, protecting river valleys, or building roads and bridges that can withstand more extreme weather, these are engineering problems that require practical, evidence-based solutions — not just targets on paper. I believe in responsible environmental stewardship, but I also believe the City needs to focus on what it can directly control. Edmonton should absolutely plan for a more resilient future — but we should do that through smarter design, better construction standards, and efficient operations, not by creating layers of red tape or unrealistic commitments that slow down housing and infrastructure projects. Projects like Blatchford are a good example of what happens when climate ambition gets tangled in bureaucracy: the intentions are good, but the execution falls short, and costs spiral out of control. Our residents expect real results — reduced emissions through efficiency, not ideology. If we manage our city well — building efficient transit, reducing waste, maintaining assets properly — we can achieve meaningful environmental outcomes without driving up costs or delaying progress. In short, we need to lead with practicality, not paperwork.

Tony Caterina: No response.

Abdul Malik Chukwudi: Edmonton should pursue long-term climate goals like net zero by 2050, with data and science but they must be balanced with immediate priorities such as housing affordability, public safety, and infrastructure. Climate action should be integrated into smart planning and investment, not pursued at the expense of essential services

Vanessa Denman: No — while climate change is important, Edmonton should not make binding long-term commitments like “net zero by 2050” without first ensuring those goals are realistic, affordable, and in balance with urgent priorities like affordability, public safety, and infrastructure renewal. My approach would be to focus on practical, results-driven actions that reduce emissions while keeping housing affordable, roads safe, and essential services strong—ensuring sustainability is part of everyday planning rather than a costly target that could compromise other vital needs.

Andy Andrzej Gudanowski: Planning is always possible, but we must remember that the budget is new every year. Every year brings new challenges. Obviously, the climate is constantly changing, but it's a slow process and doesn't require extensive planning. As mayor, I will organize climate meetings every two years; other issues, such as affordability, public safety, infrastructure, and many other topics, must be discussed annually.

Rahim Jaffer: A balance is required. Currently we are not in balance. We have a whole climate change department that does nothing except collect a pay cheque according to the CBC. https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/audit-reveals-gaps-in-governance-structure-of-edmonton-s-climate-goal-delivery-team-1.7172072 The city has also tried to pawn off its climate change problems on other people so its climate balance sheet looks better. Instead of spending the money to fix Hangar 14, home of the Alberta Aviation Museum, the city is selling off Hangar 14 to escape its responsibility to maintain the structure. There is no guarantee the museum will stay where it is and add on the future Blatchford Community League as a tenant, all because the City is trying to escape a $45 million repair bill over 10 years.

Andrew Knack: No response.

Omar Mohammad: No response.

Utha Nadauk: Yes, Edmonton should commit to long-term climate goals like net zero by 2050. However, these commitments must be balanced with affordability and core services. Climate action should be integrated into practical decisions — such as energy-efficient buildings, better transit, and renewable energy — without sacrificing financial responsibility.

Olney Tugwell: No response.

Michael Walters: Yes, I think that the City of Edmonton becoming net zero by 2050 is important. The way to get there municipally is through practical actions that save people money and improve daily life. That means efficient homes and buildings, reliable transit, and neighbourhood design that lowers household costs. When climate change adaptation and mitigation work makes it easier for people to get around, cuts their utility bills, or avoids expensive flood damage, it’s not just environmental policy, it’s smart city-building. Climate is integrated with affordability, public safety, and especially infrastructure, not competing. I’ll work to keep it proportional to core priorities by investing where action delivers multiple benefits including affordability, safety, and reliable services. During my time on council I helped lead the Community Energy Transition Strategy, which set Edmonton on a path to carbon neutrality while protecting ratepayers and neighbourhoods. As mayor, I’ll continue with that approach: evidence-based, practical, and focused on results Edmontonians can see and feel.

Mayor

1 To Be Elected

Paul Bakhmut: Edmonton is growing fast, and concerns around infill are a great example of what happens when Edmontonians are not consulted properly and have to face a one-size-fits-all solution that they did not approve. To prevent this from happening in the future, I would create a modern citizen engagement platform and modernize 311 to make it work 24/7 so citizens can have a two-way conversation with the City and councillors and mayor can see in real time the issues that matter to Edmontonians and what is being done about them.

Ronald Stewart Billingsley, Jr.: Too slow. I advocate for more infills, and densification of our population. Infills are inevitable in aging neighbourhoods, and I am for maximum number of suites/ units possible. I have heard concerns about parking; neighbourhoods with increasing number of residents per square km need to have additional parking spaces, even if developers have to start doing underground parking garages. This would free up space for other residents' outside parking. Residents' parking have to be prioritized over public parking in any neighborhood across the city.

Tim Cartmell: Growth has to be smart, coordinated, and respectful of existing communities. Right now, it’s none of those things. The City has pushed density into mature neighbourhoods without first ensuring that the infrastructure, amenities, and public trust are in place to support it. The result is frustration, conflict, and neighbourhoods that feel like change is happening to them, not with them. Infill should strengthen communities, not divide them. That’s the foundation of my Smart Growth, Strong Neighbourhoods plan. We can welcome new neighbours and still protect what makes our existing communities great — but we need to get back to common sense. That means scaling back mid-block row housing from eight units to four, allowing up to six on corner lots, and prioritizing infill where it makes sense — near transit, downtown, and around post-secondary institutions where infrastructure already exists. Growth has to be planned, not forced. We also need to fix how we engage the public. Too often, residents are brought in after the decision has already been made. Engagement should be a partnership — transparent, early, and honest — with neighbourhood groups at the table from the start. People don’t oppose change; they oppose chaos. When the City communicates clearly and plans responsibly, communities are more willing to embrace growth that fits. That’s why I’ve committed to act within the first 40 days of taking office. I’ll bring forward the changes needed to stabilize infill — tightening design standards, restoring practical parking minimums, and embedding real public consultation into the planning process. Edmonton can and should grow, but we need to do it with purpose. Smart growth and strong neighbourhoods go hand in hand — and we can achieve both when we start managing change the right way.

Tony Caterina: No response.

Abdul Malik Chukwudi: Edmonton’s infill pace is too fast in many neighbourhoods, causing strain on infrastructure and community character. The City should slow development and engage residents early through clear consultation, transparent planning, and meaningful feedback opportunities.

Vanessa Denman: Edmonton’s pace of infill development is uneven—too fast in some areas, too slow in others. The real issue is not speed, but fit and fairness. Infill should strengthen communities, not overwhelm them. My view: The Good: Infill helps limit sprawl, adds housing variety, and revitalizes aging areas. The Challenge: Without thoughtful design and strong engagement, projects can clash with neighborhood character and strain infrastructure. Bottom Line: The City needs to shift from one-way consultation to genuine dialogue—where residents shape infill decisions alongside builders. Engagement must be transparent, accessible, and backed by clear accountability. As Mayor, I would ensure infill development happens at the right pace, in the right places, with communities as true partners.

Andy Andrzej Gudanowski: The pace of infill development in Edmonton is about right. As Mayor, no infill development in downtown or other parts of Edmonton can be undertaken without the full consent of local residents.There must be a joint and comprehensive agreement between residents and City Council.

Rahim Jaffer: While the pace is about right, what is being permitted is wrong. We need to go back to the infill reports, and repeal and replace the residential part of Bylaw 20001. Administration is already working on this. We can't have infill destroying a neighbors property values like they have overnight.

Andrew Knack: No response.

Omar Mohammad: No response.

Utha Nadauk: The pace of infill has been too fast for some neighbourhoods and too slow for the overall housing needs of the city. The real issue is trust. Residents often feel blindsided. I would push for better communication, clear timelines, and stronger design standards so that infill complements existing communities.

Olney Tugwell: No response.

Michael Walters: Council’s blanket rezoning went too far, too fast and broke trust. I will cap mid-block at four units, allow up to six on corners if they are large enough, and require design standards so new homes fit local streets. I will rebuild engagement around where growth makes sense, prioritizing areas near LRT and major corridors so we add housing and protect neighbourhood character.

Mayor

1 To Be Elected

Paul Bakhmut: I will start with listening and assembling a group of people who would like to see improvements from key parties, engaging the EPS, the Police Commission, Government of Alberta and other relevant stakeholders. Then we can work off shared data to find common ground and build alignment that will allow us to have a plan and execute. Most problems can be solved with better understanding and better communication.

Ronald Stewart Billingsley, Jr.: I have strong opinions on this issue. First and foremost, body cams MUST be mandatory for ALL protective frontliner forces and law enforcers, including RCMP, EPS, Sheriffs, Peace Officers, and security guards. I even think paramedics and firefighters would be better protected wearing bodycams, as well as ETS workers. Ride-alongs with all these law enforcement and frontliners should be brought back. This would increase transparency and accountability to the maximum extent possible, in my opinion. At the same time, I would increase wages and benefits for all the aforementioned frontliners. It's a give and take approach. I would have a zero tolerance policy on corruption.

Tim Cartmell: The relationship between City Council, the Police Commission, and the Edmonton Police Service has become strained, and that’s hurting our ability to make real progress on safety in our city. Rebuilding trust starts with remembering what we’re all here to do: keep Edmontonians safe. That common goal has to come before politics, personalities, or turf battles. As Mayor, I would bring all three partners — Council, the Commission, and EPS leadership — back to the same table, with a clear focus on collaboration and measurable outcomes. Each has a role, and mutual respect is the only way this system works. We need to rebuild relationships on the ground. I’ve always believed that strong communities are safer communities, and that requires cooperation between police, social agencies, and neighbourhoods. I would champion a renewed focus on community policing — putting officers where they’re visible, trusted, and part of the solution. Trust isn’t rebuilt through press releases or committees. It’s rebuilt through steady leadership, open communication, and a shared commitment to safety. That’s the kind of leadership I intend to bring.

Tony Caterina: No response.

Abdul Malik Chukwudi: I would prioritize open communication, regular reporting, and clear accountability measures between the Police Service, Commission, and Council. Building trust requires collaboration, transparency in decision-making, and community engagement to ensure policing aligns with public needs.

Vanessa Denman: Edmontonians deserve safety, accountability, and trust between their leaders and institutions. My view: The Good: Edmonton has dedicated officers and oversight structures already in place. The Challenge: Conflicts between Council, the Commission, and EPS have created division and eroded public confidence. Bottom Line: Rebuilding trust starts with respect and transparency. I would prioritize open communication, joint goal-setting, and public reporting that measures both safety outcomes and accountability. As Mayor, I will bring all parties back to the same table with a focus on collaboration, clear expectations, and rebuilding the public’s trust in how safety is delivered and overseen.

Andy Andrzej Gudanowski: The ability to unite communities is a gift of few. Those who feel they lack this gift should never enter politics. The police force is there to enforce the law. The police commissioner ensures the police force's effectiveness, and the city maintains the police budget, providing fair compensation, appropriate modern equipment, training, and opportunities for continuous professional development. If there were disagreements between the Edmonton Police Service, the Police Commission, and City Council in the past, it indicated that the wrong people were elected to City Hall and the wrong people were appointed as police commissioners.

Rahim Jaffer: We have an huge opportunity to reset the relationship with the change in council and have new councillors who won't break the secrecy or confidentiality of police operations to become sitting members on the police commission. https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/edmonton-police-to-replace-confidential-plane-for-4-3-million-1.6354531 Next, we have a new police chief, and third, a new executive director for the police commission is being sought. Early meetings will be needed to get on the same page and work together.

Andrew Knack: No response.

Omar Mohammad: No response.

Utha Nadauk: Trust can only be rebuilt through transparency and accountability. I would: Ensure open communication between Council, EPS, and the Commission. Demand regular public reporting on outcomes, not just spending. Prioritize both community safety and accountability, recognizing that residents need to feel safe and trust their institutions.

Olney Tugwell: No response.

Michael Walters: We need to take the politics out of policing. I will honour a predictable funding formula, set clear performance metrics with public reporting, expand mental-health crisis teams alongside EPS, and make transit safety visible and immediate. Collaborative, evidence-based roles for Council, the Commission, and the EPS will rebuild trust while improving results on the street.

Mayor

1 To Be Elected

Paul Bakhmut: I am running as an independent candidate with no party machines behind me. The most important alignment is with Edmontonians to make sure that any solutions proposed solve the problems people experience. Edmontonians have diverse political leanings and my campaign is built to cut across divisions with a platform that appeals to conservatives and progressives alike. Personally, I am a fiscal conservative who believes in personal responsibility and small government. The city should not run everything, taxes should be lower, and police should do their job and not be defunded. I also enjoy walkable, human-centred neighbourhoods that mix homes and shops, great public transit that boosts productivity and equity, investing in parks, libraries, and community spaces that strengthen safety and belonging. Accessibility and support for newcomers mean a lot to me.

Ronald Stewart Billingsley, Jr.: I have been both a member of the Conservative Party, and a member of the Liberal Party in the past. However, I ran as an Independent federal MP in April in Edmonton Centre, and just as during that campaign, I prefer not to pigeonhole myself into an affiliation with one party. Having said that, I am probably more to the left than the right given my platform priorities, petitions and beliefs. I am for maximum protection of individual freedoms and liberties as per the Charter, with as expansive an interpretation thereof as possible, i.e. I detest discrimination of any sort, or hate speech of any sort. I used to think I was fiscally conservative, but I suppose with my ambitious plan for a centralized homeless shelter paid for by taxing places of worship ... is that way left as progressive taxation, or is that way right attempting to get more income in the city coffers? It's debatable. NDP, Liberal and Conservative are just labels in my opinion. My top priorities remain the same regardless of what one may label my platform ideologies as, and I'd find ways to fund the homeless shelter one way or another, even if I had to cut from other areas of the budget to do so. And I'd be lobbying both the federal Liberals and the provincial Conservatives to BOTH pitch in. So I suppose I am a hopeful collaborator between both. Good question.

Tim Cartmell: No. The regulations for municipal parties prohibit this and I am the leader of Better Edmonton. We created our own ethos because of this and encourage everyone to read more at: https://www.votebetteredmonton.ca

Tony Caterina: No response.

Abdul Malik Chukwudi: I am not formally affiliated with any provincial or federal political party. I focus on practical, results-driven solutions for Edmonton, rather than partisan politics, to ensure decisions are made in the best interest of residents.

Vanessa Denman: I am running as an independent mayoral candidate, with no formal affiliation to any provincial or federal political party. Municipal government is about serving all Edmontonians—regardless of partisan alignment—and focusing on the practical, day-to-day issues that shape our city: safe neighborhoods, reliable services, fair taxation, and responsible growth. That said, I will work collaboratively with all levels of government, no matter which party is in power, to ensure Edmonton’s interests are protected and advanced. My priority is not party politics—it is the people of Edmonton.

Andy Andrzej Gudanowski: I am an independent candidate with moderately conservative views. Current political parties in Canada have nothing to offer new members; they lack permanent political structures and emerge shortly before elections, seeking new candidates with cash. At such times, parties disregard political experience and membership history.

Rahim Jaffer: I used to be a federal Conservative Party of Canada MP, Canadian Alliance, and Reform before that. I am running as an independent because at the end of the day, as Mayor, I have to work with everyone on the council, not matter their political leaning, and build consensus to move the agenda forward.

Andrew Knack: No response.

Omar Mohammad: No response.

Utha Nadauk: I am running as an independent candidate. I believe municipal government should focus on local issues without the influence of party politics. My commitment is to Edmonton residents, not to provincial or federal party agendas.

Olney Tugwell: No response.

Michael Walters: I am not affiliated with any political party or third-party advertisers. I am running as an independent because Edmonton needs collaboration with every order of government and decisions focused on residents, not partisanship.