Mayoral contenders participating in a debate at the Ice District on Friday evening all emphasized the importance of financial responsibility for Edmonton’s upcoming city council. The debate, hosted by the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce, featured a panel questioning the five candidates on topics such as tax reduction, downtown rejuvenation, enhancing the city’s business competitiveness, and its relationship with the province.
Out of the 12 official mayoral candidates in Edmonton, the chamber selected five individuals based on a recent poll to partake in the debate held at the JW Marriott hotel. The participants included current city councillors Andrew Knack and Tim Cartmell, former city councillor Michael Walters, former Conservative MP Rahim Jaffer, and pediatric dental surgeon Omar Mohammad.
During the discussion, Cartmell highlighted the need for a shift in tax distribution away from property owners and advocated for increased funding towards essential city services. Knack, drawing from his 12-year council experience, emphasized his efforts in budget reduction and proposed restructuring future budgets while ensuring essential services are not compromised.
Walters argued against unnecessary tax hikes, stating that the city has been increasing taxes beyond necessity. Additionally, Knack pointed out the rising costs associated with Edmonton’s growth and the need for transparent communication regarding service expenses.
Jaffer suggested rolling back tax rates to 2021 levels, criticizing the current council’s approach. Mohammad echoed concerns about the council’s allocation of resources to projects with limited long-term benefits.
Regarding the city’s relationship with the province, Jaffer highlighted the need for enhanced provincial services, emphasizing the importance of effective engagement. Knack expressed concerns about the effectiveness of current engagement strategies, questioning the need for more substantial actions beyond casual meetings.
The discussion also touched on the city’s responsibility in providing essential services like housing and mental health support. Walters emphasized the need for collaborative efforts between the city and other stakeholders, citing potential financial challenges in taking on these responsibilities alone.
Premier Danielle Smith commended the collaborative efforts between the city and the province, highlighting successful partnerships in various initiatives like the Navigation and Support Centre and urban development projects.
Overall, the debate underscored the candidates’ diverse perspectives on fiscal management, service provision, and intergovernmental relations, reflecting the crucial issues facing Edmonton’s future leadership.
