Reg Rygus

Edmonton's new council meets for the first time today in what is largely an introductory session. From the make up of the council it appears to be more of the same. Stephanie Swensrude of TapRoot has compiled a list of where she thinks council stands on various issues. Time will reveal how accurate she is.

• Mayor-elect Andrew Knack has outlined priorities focused on safety, affordability, and addressing homelessness, while pledging to honour the $250-million fan park deal with the Oilers Entertainment Group. Despite previously opposing the deal as a Councillor, Knack said the agreement will proceed, though the new Council will monitor the Province’s contributions to ensure they benefit Edmontonians. Knack emphasized practical governance over partisan politics, noting that essential City services like snow removal and park maintenance require cooperation rather than ideology. With less than 40% of the popular vote and voter turnout under 30%, he acknowledged his mandate represents a small portion of eligible voters but stressed that Council must relentlessly focus on population growth, City services, and maintaining affordability. The new Council will also prioritize setting a budget and addressing infrastructure gaps, including four to five missing fire halls, while finding efficiencies without cutting essential services.
• As Edmonton voters returned many incumbents to Council, business leaders are calling for fiscal restraint and cooperation to address the City’s financial challenges. Doug Griffiths, President of the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce, said the next four years will require hard decisions rather than large infrastructure projects, urging collaboration between City officials and the private sector to restore stability. The Chamber’s 2025 Municipal Action Plan outlines 14 recommendations focused on construction, business development, and safety. The Business Council of Alberta echoed these concerns, identifying three key priorities for municipalities: responsible growth, stronger fiscal management, and improved public safety. BCA vice-president Mike Holden said safety and crime concerns ranked highest among member priorities, surpassing typical economic issues like taxation and red tape. Both organizations say they are ready to work with local governments to foster economic resilience, warning that inaction could worsen the City’s financial strain.
• In Ward 7 (sipiwiyiniwak), the Council race initially showed a six-vote difference between the top two candidates, Darrell Friesen and Thu Parmar, but a recount later revealed Parmar won by 600 votes. The discrepancy resulted from a transposition error that occurred when tally results were copied between sheets, incorrectly assigning votes to a different candidate. Both candidates and election officials accepted the outcome, attributing it to administrative mistakes rather than fraud. Analysts noted that returning to hand-counting after decades of using vote tabulating machines contributed to errors, as municipal elections involve multiple ballots per voter. Additional challenges included insufficient staff, inadequate training, and delays from a new permanent voter registry mandated by provincial law. A third-party audit has been called for, and a review of the election process is expected to identify improvements for future elections.
• A provincial report on Edmonton’s police governance has recommended removing City Councillors from the Edmonton Police Commission and raising pay for Commissioners to attract more qualified members. The 190-page review, authored by Justice William Hourigan, followed tensions between Council, the Commission, and the Edmonton Police Service over appointments and funding. Hourigan found that Councillor-Commissioners face an ‘irresolvable challenge’ balancing their roles as policymakers and impartial police overseers. He called for legislative changes requiring professional backgrounds in finance, law, and public administration for future appointees, as well as restrictions on former police officers, judges, or criminal lawyers serving as commissioners. The report also urged higher compensation, suggesting the chair’s role be full-time and vice-chair part-time, to reflect the complexity of oversight duties. Other recommendations include improved training, greater transparency in budgeting, and clearer public reporting to restore trust between City Hall, the commission, and the Edmonton Police Service.
• Several returning Councillors say the mood they encountered while doorknocking was far calmer than the anger seen online during the 2025 municipal election. Ward 8 (papastew) Councillor Michael Janz, re-elected with 57% of the vote, said social media “rage-baiting” overstated voter discontent, noting that most residents he spoke with were concerned about local safety, affordability, and basic City services. Ward 4 (Dene) Councillor Aaron Paquette said the public’s tone shifted in recent months as voters prioritized stability amid national and global uncertainty. He said residents largely wanted practical solutions such as road repairs and better infrastructure rather than sweeping political changes. I mean, we completely agree that residents want a focus on safety, affordability, basic public services, and practical solutions - the problem was they didn't get it from the last Council. If these returning Councillors are suggesting that's what they'll focus on this time, then great!

• The Legislature is back in session, and the Throne Speech was delivered, outlining the provincial government’s agenda for the upcoming legislative session. Government House Leader Joseph Schow said 15 bills are planned, including measures to reduce red tape, prohibit regulators from requiring Canadian work experience, and prevent “undue discipline” in professional associations. Other legislation will adjust local election rules by tightening nomination requirements and will begin creating the Alberta Sheriffs Police Service. Schow said returning students to classrooms remains a key goal amid the ongoing teachers’ strike. Schow also reiterated the government’s readiness to use the notwithstanding clause to defend its existing laws on gender and education policy.
• Speaking of the teacher’s strike, Premier Danielle Smith says that back-to-work legislation will be introduced today. The strike, now in its fourth week, involves 51,000 teachers and affects 750,000 students across public, separate, and francophone schools. The government has offered a 12% wage increase over four years and a plan to hire 3,000 additional teachers, but educators argue this does not sufficiently address class sizes and special needs support. The proposed Back to School Act would be fast-tracked through the legislature using modified debate rules to allow quick passage. Alberta Teachers’ Association President Jason Schilling criticized the legislation as disrespectful and limiting democratic debate. Opposition NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi condemned the move, calling it an attack on education and democracy. The government maintains it remains open to negotiations if teachers initiate formal talks before the bill passes.
• Alberta’s government introduced Bill 1, the International Agreements Act, as its first piece of legislation for the fall session, asserting that international agreements will only apply in the province if passed under provincial law. Bill 1 would repeal the 1995 International Trade and Investment Agreements Implementation Act and require all international treaties affecting provincial jurisdiction to be debated and approved by the Legislature before taking effect. Premier Danielle Smith framed the bill as a defence of Alberta’s sovereignty, inspired by Quebec’s model, and emphasized that federal negotiators must include Alberta in agreements affecting areas like oil, gas, health, and education. Critics, including NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi, called the bill performative, unconstitutional, and a diversion from pressing provincial issues such as the ongoing teachers’ strike and challenges in health care. Notably, he didn't say any of this about Quebec's law.
• Changes in provincial voting legislation are expected shortly, designed to take aim at "long ballot" protests following a federal byelection that saw a record 214 candidates listed. The proposed bill would increase the number of nomination signatures required, prohibit individuals from signing multiple papers, and make it illegal to induce others to do so. Government House Leader Joseph Schow said the changes are meant to ensure only serious candidates appear on ballots. Critics say the proposal could discourage participation and undermine democratic confidence. Mount Royal University political scientist Lori Williams said Alberta hasn’t yet faced such protests but cautioned that overly restrictive rules could exclude legitimate candidates. She noted that fair safeguards, such as limiting how many papers a person can sign, could prevent abuse without narrowing access to the democratic process. The government is expected to table the legislation during the current session.
• Also in the works are plans to allow residents to privately purchase diagnostic tests and screenings, a move the Alberta government says will reduce wait times and attract private investment into the province’s health system. Under the proposal, Albertans could pay out of pocket for elective services such as imaging and preventative screenings, while physician-recommended tests would remain publicly funded. If a privately paid test identifies a serious medical condition, the cost would be reimbursed. Health Minister Adriana LaGrange described the change as expanding choice and strengthening preventative care, while critics argue it risks creating a two-tier system. NDP health critic Sarah Hoffman said privatization could divert resources from the public system and worsen wait times. The Province maintains that the reforms are intended to increase capacity, not replace public services, and there are plans to consult with medical and industry stakeholders before introducing the legislative changes.
• The Alberta government will end its hybrid work model for public service employees, requiring more than 12,000 workers to return to full-time, in-office work starting in February. Since March 2022, Alberta Public Service employees have been allowed to work from home up to two days per week under a temporary hybrid policy introduced during the pandemic. The Province said the policy is being discontinued due to changing conditions and broader workplace trends. Approximately 44% of Alberta’s government workforce was participating in the hybrid arrangement as of August. The government noted that it is following a similar move by Ontario, which will require its employees to return to the office full-time in early 2026. Officials added that while remote work will end, employees can still access other flexible arrangements, such as modified hours or work averaging policies.

What's on in Edmonton this weekend?Join Amber Wilton (Sincria) to get your signed copy of her new Manga ​Spectrum Trigger! Volume 1, come and work on your DIY Halloween costumes and cozy fall projects at Latitude 53’s Crafter-ween, step into the shadows this Halloween season as The Sinner’s Cabaret at the Starlite Room, attend the ultimate Halloween house party packed with 90s nostalgia, fog, bold costumes, and unexpected twists at the AGA’s Refinery: Jumpscare, join Northern Lights Folk Club for their presentation of Russell deCarle, celebrate two major milestones for the Edmonton Winds at Close to Home, enjoy a great night of live music to celebrate the rich legacy of the Blues in Edmonton with the 2025 Blues Hall of Fame Inductees, and so much more!

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It official, Andrew Knack has been declared as Edmonton's new mayor but who will serve with him on counsel is not yet confirmed, but some preliminary counts suggest some incumbents may be serving with Andrew Knack.

Today is election day which will determine who will have their hands on the city's controls. Will it be more of the same with many of the old council or will there be some new faces with new ideas?

In his latest post, Lorne Gunter expresses his opinion about the candidates who associate themselves with "Working Families", which by the way are many of the old council.

Campaign Roundup - Day 27

• We are in the last days of the election campaign! Election Day is Monday, October 20th. Polls will be open from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm. You can find locations - as well as voter information - on the City’s website.
• Mayoral candidate Tim Cartmell is hosting a Virtual Town Hall on October 19th at 3:30 PM to discuss the challenges facing Edmonton and his plans to improve the city. Rahim Jaffer, also vying for the Mayor’s chair, posted a new campaign video urging Edmontonians to vote for real change. He highlighted the need to cut taxes, tackle crime, focus on the basics, and end the status quo that he says has failed the City for decades.
• Michael Walters took to Facebook to post several endorsements of those supporting his bid for Mayor. Endorsements include former Deputy Prime Minister Anne McLellan, former Mayor Stephen Mandel, and former Councillor Scott McKeen.
• Also continuing to campaign is Mayoral candidate Andrew Knack, who shared a message highlighting the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on seniors, families, and young residents. He says he envisions a Stronger Edmonton where affordability is a priority, with support for seniors, accessible childcare, fair housing for renters, affordable City services, and a strong, safe transit system.
• Don’t forget to check out our 2025 Municipal Election Coverage, which reveals where Mayoral and Council candidates stand on key issues like safety, affordability, taxation, and accountability. We have published their unedited responses so voters can make informed choices. There are videos too!

The old adage "outta sight, outta mind" held true for some time, but this latest TapRoot article suggests the saga of establishing a Camrose casino in Ward Karhiio continues. I believe the last thing Millwoods/Meadows or for that matter Edmonton needs is another casino. I'm hoping our new mayor and council can get together with all parties involved to find a way to end to this saga once and for all!

Campaign Roundup - Day 26

• Our Edmonton Election Survey is being updated regularly to reflect new candidate submissions. The survey reveals where Mayoral and Council candidates stand on key issues like safety, affordability, taxation, and accountability. We have published their unedited responses so voters can make informed choices.
• We have also launched our Edmonton Election Videos, featuring in-depth interviews with candidates for Mayor and Council. This video series offers a more personal way to learn about candidates compared to written survey responses.
• The Canada Post strike is forcing Edmonton mayoral campaigns to pivot from traditional mailouts to volunteer-driven outreach. Candidates like Andrew Knack and Michael Walters are relying on volunteers to hand-deliver literature and engage residents directly, as voter information cards were not mailed due to the strike. Knack emphasized that door-to-door efforts foster stronger connections with voters and ensure people know when and where to vote. Walters expressed concern that new voter registration rules, combined with the lack of mailed information, could impact turnout. Edmonton Elections has expanded 311 services to help residents find polling stations and is encouraging in-person submission of special ballots.
• Public safety has emerged as the top issue in Edmonton’s municipal election, with 85% of surveyed residents prioritizing crime reduction and 80% concerned about downtown disorder. Mayoral candidates noted that addressing safety involves more than policing alone, but have differing solutions for how to deal with it.

Here’s what’s cool/trending for parents in Edmonton this week

• Kids eat FREE at Fox Burger Until October 31. From October 1 to 31, when you order an adult entrée, your little one gets their meal free. It’s such a great excuse to skip cooking for a night and let everyone enjoy something delicious together.
• 27 FREE family-friendly Halloween activities and experiences in Edmonton this month.
• Speaking of Halloween, here’s where you can trick or treat indoors in Edmonton this year.
• Here’s how to get your hands on an $0.85 mini Blizzard until the end of the month at Dairy Queen.
• Zipping straight ahead to Christmas, the holiday schedule for the CP Holiday Train has been announced. Find the Alberta stops, here.
• LAST CHANCE! Enter to win four passes to World Waterpark Movie Night - the first one ever - on Instagram.

Here are the best things to do in Edmonton this Weekend with Kids

Friday October 17, 2025

• Visit Maisie’s Halloween House | All Weekend
• 300th Public Artwork Unveiling | 3:30 p.m.
• Join us to celebrate the unveiling of the 300th public artwork in the City of Edmonton’s Public Art collection! The 300th artwork is Edmonton’s first playground designed in collaboration with an artist. Created by local artist AJA Louden, the new Piney’s Playground in Balwin Park will blend art, play, and community. Inspired by both nature and science fiction, it’s a space to imagine, explore and grow together.
• Get your Hands on $.85 Blizzards from Dairy Queen | All Day
• Download the DQ App for your offer to get an $0.85 Blizzard when you spend $1 in-store. This low cost treat option is a fun way treat yourself, and the kids, on the cheap. One offer per account, so grab the app on multiple devices.

Saturday October 18, 2025

• Alberta Prairie Railway Pumpkin Fest | 10:00 a.m.
• Guests are invited to join us on one of four special train experiences. Includes selecting very own pumpkin from our patch, a beef on bun or hot dog lunch, a beverage and cookie, family friendly activities
• Edmonton Halloween Costume Swap | 10:00 a.m.
• Halloween Costume Swap at Edmonton Reuse Centre. Costumes must be in clean and wearable condition.
• FREE Manning Monster Mash | 12:00 p.m.
• Enjoy bouncy castles, roaming characters, balloon twisting, airbrush tattoos, a pumpkin carving demo, plus a giveaway, and booths by Manning Town Centre and Manning Village retailers with free samples and swag.
• Learn to Canoe at Hermitage Park | 12:30 p.m.
• Ready to dip your paddle and discover the magic of canoeing? Whether you’re bringing the family or flying solo, our Learn to Canoe sessions at Hermitage Park are the perfect intro to paddling fun!
• City of St. Albert Halloween Haunt | 1:00 p.m.
• The Halloween Haunt is an annual family-friendly event geared towards children 12 years and younger. Come show off your costume as you play, collect treats and burn off that Halloween energy!
• City of Edmonton Play Rangers: Slackline | 1:30 p.m.
• Join Indigo for story time and fun activities inspired by your favourite crew. Plus, enter for a chance to win a Bluey book!
• FREE Lego Make & Take: Bookmark | 3:00 p.m
• Build, play, and take it away—customize your own LEGO® bookmark to use with your favourite books.
• FREE Saturday Swim with Inflatables | 5:30 p.m.
• Splash around with a FREE Saturday swim (sponsored by Pasta Pantry & Trattoria) at Emerald Hills Leisure Centre!
• Delwood Fright Night Haunted House | 6:30 p.m.
• Delwood Kingdom of Lost Souls Haunted House makes a return for 2024 with the Kingdom of Lost Souls Haunted House. There are low-scare, family opening night experiences through the short-season and scary times to visit the Edmonton Haunted House. This is one of those haunted house experiences that we come back for, year after year. Come see Delwood transform into one of the most popular scares of the season!

October 19, 2025

• Build & Play with Magnatiles | 11:00 a.m.
• Earn a Junior Engineer certificate and sticker by exploring speed, motion, and problem-solving. Plus, enter for a chance to win the Rail Racers set!
• FREE Lego Make & Take | 12:00 p.m.
• LEGO Rangoli make and take event is intended for participants aged 6+ years. The LEGO Rangoli model will be available on a first come first serve basis, at participating locations, while supplies last.
• Trick or Treating Accessible Village | 1:30 p.m.
• Delight in a variety of trick or treating stations filled with both edible and non-edible treats, alongside a DJ, magicians, and costumed entertainers.
• Boo at the Zoo | All Day
• Explore the zoo’s not-so-scary festivities with magical guest characters, all while collecting candy at our trick-or-treat stops throughout the zoo.
• Landmark Cinemas Kids Day | All Day
• Every Sunday get a movie ticket and snack deal for $13 at Landmark Cinemas. All tickets are discounted for morning shows, too.
• Visit the full Edmonton.family Calendar to find the best things to do in Edmonton with kids - every day of the week.

Campaign Roundup - Day 25:

• The team at Common Sense Edmonton has released our 2025 Municipal Election Survey, revealing where Mayoral and Council candidates stand on key issues like safety, affordability, taxation, and accountability. We have published their unedited responses so voters can make informed choices. Some candidates answered, others declined - but all responses, or lack thereof, offer insight into their priorities. We’ll be updating the website as candidates respond, so check back often!
• A new CityNews poll shows widespread dissatisfaction among Edmontonians with the top six Mayoral candidates. While Tim Cartmell and Andrew Knack lead in support, large shares of respondents feel none of the candidates have the vision, trustworthiness, or alignment with residents’ values needed to lead the City.
• The poll also shows widespread dissatisfaction with Edmonton’s current Council, with more than two-thirds of voters believing their sitting Councillors don’t deserve re-election. About 51% of respondents rated their local Councillor as doing a “bad job,” and nearly 75% feel the City is headed in the wrong direction. With 9 of the 12 incumbents seeking re-election, these results suggest significant turnover could occur in Monday’s election.
• The priorities in this election are quite different from the priorities in 2021, when public health restrictions and pandemic-related issues dominated voters’ concerns. This year, key issues include managing the challenges of a growing city, fiscal responsibility, taxes, and public services like snow removal and safety. Social justice and climate change have decreased in perceived importance, while regaining trust in City leadership is being seen as central.

What's on in Edmonton this weekend?Kick off Ballet Edmonton’s 14th season with their performance of SIREN, explore various mixed media techniques at a workshop with artist Doris Charest, enjoy an unforgettable weekend of indie cinema and red carpet moments at the 2025 Edmonton Short Film Festival, check out the funny and heartfelt memoir of a married comedy duo at the Citadel’s production of Big Stuff, celebrate the release Gail Sidonie Sobat’s book ​Songs From This and That Country at Audreys Books, and so much more!

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