New polling suggests Edmonton voters are largely undecided heading into the municipal election, with 46% of respondents not yet choosing a candidate. Among those who have decided or are leaning, Andrew Knack leads with 41%, followed by Tim Cartmell at 21%. Other candidates, including former councillors and a former federal MP, trail significantly, with most receiving single-digit support. Experts say the high number of undecided voters is unusual this close to an election and could reflect voter fatigue or a desire for fresh faces. Knack has positioned himself as the progressive choice, focusing on issues like homelessness and housing affordability, while other candidates compete in centrist and right-leaning spaces. The election could hinge on which candidates are most effective at mobilizing voters. The results remain volatile, and small shifts in support could have a significant impact on the outcome.
As Amarjeet Sohi ends his term as Mayor, he reflected on a challenging four years marked by the pandemic, population growth, and rising costs of living. Sohi defended his focus on spending, warning against austerity measures that could stall progress as the city added about 200,000 new residents. He highlighted efforts to restore transit, library, and police services after inheriting an $88-million deficit, as well as controversial initiatives like the City’s zoning bylaw overhaul to promote infill and sustainability. Sohi also pointed to key partnerships with the province, such as funding for housing and the Fan Park project, while criticizing the provincial government’s decision to allow political parties in municipal elections, calling it harmful to local democracy. Despite disagreements, he described Edmonton’s relationship with the province as “productive,” citing progress on homelessness and infrastructure. Sohi said he leaves office believing the City is in a stronger position and emphasized leadership grounded in care, compassion, and collaboration.
The Downtown Revitalization Coalition is urging Alberta’s justice system to get tougher on crime, calling for bail reform and stricter handling of repeat and violent offenders. The group expressed strong support for new Edmonton Police Chief Warren Driechel, who has criticized lenient plea deals and called for justice reform after a controversial manslaughter plea in the death of an eight-year-old girl. Coalition Chair Cheryll Watson said crime is rising citywide but is especially concerning downtown, where hundreds of incidents have been reported at key intersections. The coalition wants more transparency in plea deals, stronger cooperation between police and Crown prosecutors, and judges to prioritize public safety when setting bail. Watson said Edmonton’s business and community leaders back Driechel’s push for reform, emphasizing that safer streets are essential for revitalizing downtown. Legal experts, however, noted that prosecutorial independence must be maintained, though some agreed that greater transparency in plea negotiations could benefit public trust.
Edmonton has not issued any fines for the use of personal e-scooters so far this year, as City officials are prioritizing education over enforcement. Riding private e-scooters on public roads, bike lanes, or sidewalks is prohibited under the provincial Traffic Safety Act, and violations can carry fines up to $250. Despite a recent fatal crash involving a personal e-scooter, the City emphasizes officers often focus on educating riders rather than issuing tickets, partly because identifying personal scooters can be difficult. Edmonton and Calgary are currently running pilot projects to gather data on e-scooter safety and user behaviour, which will guide future legislation.
