We sit down with Edmonton's new mayor, Andrew Knack, to talk about optimism, regional collaboration, video game marathons, and much more. 

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Mayor Andrew Knack

• AndrewKnack.ca
• Andrew Knack at Taproot's vote site
• Andrew Knack - Extra Life Edmonton donation page

Related links

• New Edmonton city council votes unanimously to create more daytime shelter spaces
• Mayor Knack responds to Chamber call for business task force
• Vacant Downtown Lot Survey
• Reddit thread on the survey
• Extra Life Edmonton

Previous appearances

• Episode 59: The Fruits of Edmonton's Tech Investments (LIVE)
• Episode 67: 2eoPEARdy
• Episode 157: I made my greenfield developers disappear
• Episode 162: Troy lost a bet
• Episode 276: 13 months notice
• Episode 309: He's got a Knack for winning elections

Rapid fire

• Alberta teachers union launches two court challenges against province's back-to-work legislation

Shout out to Castria, our podcast editors!

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, the most reliable source of intelligence about what's happening in the Edmonton region. Through curiosity-driven original stories, tailored and useful newsletters, a comprehensive and innovative events calendar, and thought-provoking podcasts, we inform, connect, and inspire a more vibrant, engaged, and resilient Edmonton region.

Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Want to reach the smartest, most-engaged people in the Edmonton region? Learn more about advertising with Taproot Edmonton!

This week, we take you inside city hall for the swearing-in ceremony and inaugural city council meeting of the 2025-2029 term. Plus, we look at possible changes to provincial electoral boundaries in Edmonton, and hear from some municipal election scrutineers.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Swearing-in ceremony

• Edmonton's new city council starts work by identifying priorities
• Don Iveson's post
• You're likely to hear the same debates at city hall despite new council
• Edmonton's everyman: Andrew Knack's journey to the mayor's seat

Electoral boundaries

• Calgary, Edmonton to gain seats under proposed electoral boundary redraw
• Most Edmontonians will vote in new or redrawn ridings next provincial election: interim report
• Commission report (PDF)

Election scrutineers

• The election count through the eyes of scrutineers: 'It broke down completely'

Teacher strike

• Students return to Alberta schools after historic teachers' strike screeches to a halt
• 'Mixed feelings' among Alberta students, parents amid return to school after 3-week strike
• The economic fallout of the Alberta teachers' strike and what comes next
• Alberta labour leaders gauge interest in general strike after suspension of teachers' bargaining rights
• News Release: Better data, better outcomes for Alberta students
• News Release: Showcasing Alberta in the Middle East

Rapid fire

• A timeline of Justin Trudeau and Katy Perry's relationship
• Soaring Blue Jays and struggling Dodgers face duelling pressures in Game 6 of World Series

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, the most reliable source of intelligence about what's happening in the Edmonton region. Through curiosity-driven original stories, tailored and useful newsletters, a comprehensive and innovative events calendar, and thought-provoking podcasts, we inform, connect, and inspire a more vibrant, engaged, and resilient Edmonton region.

Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Want to reach the smartest, most-engaged people in the Edmonton region? Learn more about advertising with Taproot Edmonton!

We take an initial look at Edmonton's new city council, which looks eerily similar to the old one. Plus, we discuss delayed results, missing ballots, and monumental recounts. 

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Election results

• Unofficial results
• Andrew Knack: 'Edmonton chose independent leadership'
• Edmonton mayor-elect Knack's priorities include safety, affordability
• Edmonton votes 2025: School board trustees
• Edmonton region votes 2025: Six new mayors, dozens of new councillors

New councillors

• Jon Morgan
• Reed Clarke
• Michael Elliott
• Thu Parmar
• Cracks appear in Cartmell's Better Edmonton coalition

Incumbents

• Most Edmonton city councillors to serve another term, election results suggest
• Judicial review for Edmonton city councillor Jennifer Rice set for after next civic election

Counting process

• News Release: Summary of facts that show how the process was verified and sound
• Edmonton Elections blames labour shortage, technology issues in voting and counting delay
• Ward councillor race flips after Edmonton Elections recount
• From 6 to 600 ballots: What went wrong with the count in sipiwiyiniwak?
• Slow results and long lines in 2025 Edmonton election

Taproot Survey

• Taproot Survey
• Voter response statistics

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, the most reliable source of intelligence about what's happening in the Edmonton region. Through curiosity-driven original stories, tailored and useful newsletters, a comprehensive and innovative events calendar, and thought-provoking podcasts, we inform, connect, and inspire a more vibrant, engaged, and resilient Edmonton region.

Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Want to reach the smartest, most-engaged people in the Edmonton region? Learn more about advertising with Taproot Edmonton!

We reflect on the biggest issues the 2025 campaign. Plus, we cover advance voting turnout and some last little bits of election analysis. 

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

2021 Election

• Oct. 15, 2021: Episode 151 - It's Election Thyme

Taproot Survey

• Comparison of Cartmell, Jaffer, Knack, and Walters
• Candidate Pitches
• The Taproot Survey is helping voters and candidates ahead of Election Day
• Taproot Survey
• Take the survey and match with candidates

Advance Voting

• Advance voter turnout higher than in 2021 with 1 week until Edmonton election
• Edmonton Election Results
• Fears for depressed turnout in the 2025 Calgary meh-lection

Campaign themes

• Edmonton's next city council will have to get creative balancing goals and taxes, former mayor says
• Too much, too fast: Majority polled in Calgary, Edmonton unhappy with pace of population growth
• Keith Gerein: This has been Edmonton's infill election, but we're getting only one side of the story
• The big picture on housing, density and affordability
• How do Edmonton's election issues in 2025 compare to 2021?

Election analysis

• Keith Gerein: Edmonton's money woes need more than wishful thinking
• Edmonton Votes 2025: Voting records reveal close councillor alignment ahead of election day
• Analysis: Cartmell's fundraising has significant crossover with UCP, while Knack has support from city staff
• If 'undecided' was a person, they'd be on track to be Edmonton's next mayor, poll suggests

Rapid fire

• Your province, your plate

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, the most reliable source of intelligence about what's happening in the Edmonton region. Through curiosity-driven original stories, tailored and useful newsletters, a comprehensive and innovative events calendar, and thought-provoking podcasts, we inform, connect, and inspire a more vibrant, engaged, and resilient Edmonton region.

Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Want to reach the smartest, most-engaged people in the Edmonton region? Learn more about advertising with Taproot Edmonton!

We dive into how much money candidates have raised and been forced to declare. Plus, we paid a visit to the mayor's office for an exit interview.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Bike lanes

• Valley Line West: 102 Avenue bike lanes temporarily moving to 103 Avenue

Campaign disclosures

• Voters told Taproot they want campaign contributions disclosed before the election
• Disclosures show Cartmell pulled in $834K — about half of all campaign contributions

Third-party advertisers

• Edmonton election candidates bare their knuckles over third-party advertiser kerfuffle
• Third-Party Advertising - City of Edmonton

Amarjeet Sohi

• Mayor Amarjeet Sohi
• Amarjeet Sohi on LinkedIn

Taproot Survey

• Taproot Survey
• Take the survey and match with candidates

This episode is brought to you by Park Power, your friendly, local utilities provider (and title sponsor of Taproot's Regional Roundup). Park Power offers electricity, natural gas, and internet to homes, businesses, and farms throughout Alberta. Learn more at parkpower.ca.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, the most reliable source of intelligence about what's happening in the Edmonton region. Through curiosity-driven original stories, tailored and useful newsletters, a comprehensive and innovative events calendar, and thought-provoking podcasts, we inform, connect, and inspire a more vibrant, engaged, and resilient Edmonton region.

Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Want to reach the smartest, most-engaged people in the Edmonton region? Learn more about advertising with Taproot Edmonton!

This week, we're excited for the new Warehouse Park, and scared about the impact of the postal strike on the election. Plus, we bring you the scariest audio of all: candidate soundbites!

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Warehouse Park

• Warehouse Park, other incentives spur up to 1,800 housing units downtown
• Warehouse Park - City of Edmonton

Postal strike

• City elections office forms contingency plan for voter cards, special ballots due to postal strike
• Canada Post strike throws wrench into Calgary's municipal election
• Canada Post Service Disruption - City of Edmonton

Candidates (in order of appearance)

• Rahim Jaffer, mayoral candidate
• Aaron Paquette, candidate for Ward Dene
• Tony Caterina, mayoral candidate
• Giselle General, candidate for Ward sipiwiyiniwak
• Anand Pye, candidate for Ward O-day'min
• Stephen Hammerschmidt, candidate for Ward O-day'min
• Tim Cartmell, mayoral candidate
• Diana Steele, candidate for Ward Nakota Isga
• Terrie Holgerson, candidate for Ward papastew

Taproot Survey

• Taproot Survey
• Take the survey and match with candidates

Rapid fire

• Moderator on Smith's Alberta Next panel sorry for saying teen should be spanked
• 'We're getting everything ready': How the Army and Navy building is preparing to re-open
• Edmonton mayoral frontrunners discuss transit and taxes at public forum

This episode is brought to you by Triovest, which manages ATCO Centre Edmonton. One of the greenest office buildings in Canada is a 43-year-old tower in the heart of downtown Edmonton. ATCO Centre Edmonton has earned top honours from ENERGY STAR Canada, as well as many other accolades, due to a commitment to continuous improvement. Learn more in a series brought to you by Triovest, a Colliers Company.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, the most reliable source of intelligence about what's happening in the Edmonton region. Through curiosity-driven original stories, tailored and useful newsletters, a comprehensive and innovative events calendar, and thought-provoking podcasts, we inform, connect, and inspire a more vibrant, engaged, and resilient Edmonton region.

Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Want to reach the smartest, most-engaged people in the Edmonton region? Learn more about advertising with Taproot Edmonton!

We dive into the candidate responses to Taproot's election survey, which are now available at taproot.vote. Plus, we discuss the new police chief, a mandate letter for the municipal affairs minister, and Nomination Day.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Darren Markland

• Darren Markland obituary
• Video featuring Darren Markland

New police chief

• 10 years later, documents shed new light on EPS steroid scandal
• Edmonton police chief says force working to fix relationship with prosecutors

Mandate letter

• Municipal affairs minister told to get more involved in local governments
• 'Back to basics': Alberta to limit municipal property tax increases, eliminate conflicts

Nomination Day

• Full list of candidates
• Better Edmonton to 'go dormant' after election: Cartmell
• PACE: Tim Cartmell's party going "dormant" confirms PACE is only party For Edmonton.

Taproot Survey

• Taproot Survey
• Take the survey and match with candidates

Rapid fire

• Edmonton Downtown Business Association announces its new leader

This episode is brought to you by the Edmonton Community Foundation's The Well Endowed Podcast. Generosity fuels our city. The Well Endowed Podcast explores how philanthropy empowers the people and organizations shaping a stronger Edmonton. Listen Now

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, the most reliable source of intelligence about what's happening in the Edmonton region. Through curiosity-driven original stories, tailored and useful newsletters, a comprehensive and innovative events calendar, and thought-provoking podcasts, we inform, connect, and inspire a more vibrant, engaged, and resilient Edmonton region.

Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Want to reach the smartest, most-engaged people in the Edmonton region? Learn more about advertising with Taproot Edmonton!

Enjoy this episode of The Well Endowed Podcast from our friends at Edmonton Community Foundation. The Well Endowed Podcast shares the stories of people and organizations who make our city thrive. That seems right up the alley of Speaking Municipally listeners!

This episode, called Second Skin, is about a tattoo removal program run by enCompass that helps give people with troubled pasts a second chance.

If you like what you hear, find The Well Endowed Podcast wherever you get your podcasts and give it a follow.

The next episode of Speaking Municipally will be published on Friday, Sept. 26, on our usual schedule.

We dive into all the last-minute motions that council squeezed in during its final week of meetings this term. Plus, we talk about construction woes on the west end, inconsistencies between different rezoning applications, and a candidate's proposal for free transit.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

West end construction woes

• Reddit thread
• Michael Walters video

Rezoning inconsistencies

• Sept. 15 Public Hearing

Final motions

• On the agenda: Final meetings for 2021-2025 council
• City council seeks to shrink 2 Edmonton homeless shelters but create more facilities

Bike lanes

• City council rejects colleague's effort to pause bike-lane construction

Free transit proposal

• Rahim Jaffer Proposes Free Fare Zone to Revitalize Downtown Edmonton

Upcoming events

• Sept. 25: ECAMP Trivia Night – Elections Edition
• Sept. 26: Let's Get Down(Town) – 2025 Municipal Election Forum - SAMU
• Oct. 9: Edmonton Mayoral Candidates Forum - EPL

This episode is brought to you by the Edmonton Community Foundation's The Well Endowed Podcast, which explores how philanthropy empowers the people and organizations shaping a stronger Edmonton. Listen Now.

This episode is also supported by Life Sciences Week, which takes place Sept. 22 to 26. The event unites academics, entrepreneurs, industry leaders and policymakers for a week of engaging discussions and exclusive tours of Alberta's cutting-edge facilities.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, the most reliable source of intelligence about what's happening in the Edmonton region. Through curiosity-driven original stories, tailored and useful newsletters, a comprehensive and innovative events calendar, and thought-provoking podcasts, we inform, connect, and inspire a more vibrant, engaged, and resilient Edmonton region.

Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Want to reach the smartest, most-engaged people in the Edmonton region? Learn more about advertising with Taproot Edmonton!

Executive committee has approved the sale of land to build supportive housing, but not everyone is happy about it. Plus, urban planning committee wants more red tape for short-term rentals, and we hop on the bike bus.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Bridge housing

• Bridge healing project in Highlands moving ahead
• City goes ahead with Highlands bridge housing project despite residents' concerns

Short-term rentals

• Edmonton city staff asked to explore more regulations for short-term rentals
• Rethink Short Term Rentals - Michael Janz
• Has B.C.'s short-term rental crackdown made housing cheaper?

Bike Bus

• Edmonton dad starts bike bus to pedal change

Election

• Walters on former mayor's support: 'I am the moderate candidate'

Rapid fire

• Carney recommends 5 'nation-building projects' for approval, including LNG expansion
• As strike looms, union says provincial policies have worn teachers down

This episode is brought to you by Lewis Block at Stadium Yards. Elevated design and bespoke luxury details — Lewis Block isn't just a rental building, it's a statement. While others offer a rooftop, ours is a sophisticated social sanctuary. Live connected with exceptional building amenities that foster community, and enjoy unparalleled access to the River Valley, Commonwealth Recreation Centre, and Stadium LRT Station.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, the most reliable source of intelligence about what's happening in the Edmonton region. Through curiosity-driven original stories, tailored and useful newsletters, a comprehensive and innovative events calendar, and thought-provoking podcasts, we inform, connect, and inspire a more vibrant, engaged, and resilient Edmonton region.

Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Want to reach the smartest, most-engaged people in the Edmonton region? Learn more about advertising with Taproot Edmonton!

This week, we talk about infrastructure, incumbency, and infill developments. Plus, a promised update on spray parks, and we talk about where you can find Taproot at some upcoming events.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Spray parks

• Spray Parks
• Coun. Cartmell's Instagram post

Infrastructure policy

• Bridges, Roads and Results: Tim Cartmell's Plan to Fix Edmonton's Infrastructure and Rebuild Public Trust
• Episode 296 - Bridgelocked

Shift against incumbents

• Edmonton votes: Could incumbents be in deep election trouble?
• New poll shows Edmontonians feel city is on wrong track, Knack with slight lead in tight mayor's race

Public safety

• Where Edmonton's mayoral candidates stand on tackling city crime
• Edmonton Police Service – 2024 Annual Report
• Edmonton Police Service sees jump in departing officers in 2022
• Jaffer listens to Edmontonians: vows to take back our streets — Jaffer for Mayor for all of Edmonton

Climate change

• Climate Justice Edmonton is organizing volunteers for canvas for city council candidates

Housing projects

• Five New Housing Projects - MichaelJanz.ca

Fort Edmonton Park

• City of Edmonton taking control of managing historic Fort Edmonton Park

Upcoming events

• Sept. 13 A City for Life - Community Conversation on Inclusive Transportation
• Sept. 24: Alberta Avenue Municipal Election Forum
• Sept. 25: ECAMP Trivia Night – Elections Edition – Edmonton City as Museum Project ECAMP
• Oct. 9: Edmonton Mayoral Candidates Forum - EPL

Rapid fire

• Campaigns heat up for 6 Edmonton mayor hopefuls as polling released

Housing Complex

• Housing Complex wins Collaboration of the Year award

This episode is brought to you by Triovest, which manages ATCO Centre Edmonton. One of the greenest office buildings in Canada is a 43-year-old tower in the heart of downtown Edmonton. ATCO Centre Edmonton has earned top honours from ENERGY STAR Canada, as well as many other accolades, due to a commitment to continuous improvement. Learn more in a series brought to you by Triovest, a Colliers Company.

This episode is also brought to you by Edmonton Startup Week, which returns Oct. 6 to 10 with five days of workshops, socials, and events celebrating the vibrancy of the startup community in Edmonton. It's a time to build connections, discover what is possible, celebrate new companies, and inspire entrepreneurship in all of us.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, the most reliable source of intelligence about what's happening in the Edmonton region. Through curiosity-driven original stories, tailored and useful newsletters, a comprehensive and innovative events calendar, and thought-provoking podcasts, we inform, connect, and inspire a more vibrant, engaged, and resilient Edmonton region.

Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Want to reach the smartest, most-engaged people in the Edmonton region? Learn more about advertising with Taproot Edmonton!

City council has approved the contentious master agreement to build a new event park at ICE District. Plus, even though it's hot outside, we talk about snow, and bike lanes. All your favourite things.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Fringe festival

• Record-breaking year for Edmonton Fringe Festival

Event park

• News Release: Master agreement approved for event park and Village at ICE District
• Edmonton city council to debate fan-park deal: What's in the fine print?
• Edmonton city council approves contentious agreement on Ice District event park
• Demolition of Edmonton's Coliseum set to start next summer
• Fuelling downtown Edmonton's future
• Edmonton Transit Riders post

Snow clearing

• Why it costs so much more to clear snow from sidewalks, bike lanes than roads
• Voters told Taproot they want better snow and ice removal

Bike lanes

• Provincial pressure mounts as Edmonton mayor vows to push forward with bike lanes

Pool season

• News Release: City of Edmonton outdoor pools make a final splash this September long weekend
• Edmonton wraps up outdoor pool season with slight dip in attendance
• 2024: Final splash: Edmonton begins closing outdoor pools, spray parks
• Edmonton Weather Nerdery: September 2024 Review

Rapid fire

• New Alberta school year comes with controversial new gender policies in classrooms
• The Mayorthon — Andrew Knack for Mayor
• Connor McDavid taking his time with Edmonton Oilers contract extension talks

This episode is brought to you by the Civida Housing Foundation, which raises funds for Civida, the largest provider of community and affordable housing in northern Alberta. Help deserving students living in affordable housing communities as they step toward brighter futures through education and opportunity at the Stars Awards Gala. This unforgettable evening features scholarship presentations, a gourmet dinner, exclusive gallery access, entertainment, and inspiring stories. Secure your spot and make an impact.

This episode is also brought to you by Edmonton Startup Week, which returns Oct. 6 to 10 with five days of workshops, socials, and events celebrating the vibrancy of the startup community in Edmonton. It's a time to build connections, discover what is possible, celebrate new companies, and inspire entrepreneurship in all of us.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, the most reliable source of intelligence about what's happening in the Edmonton region. Through curiosity-driven original stories, tailored and useful newsletters, a comprehensive and innovative events calendar, and thought-provoking podcasts, we inform, connect, and inspire a more vibrant, engaged, and resilient Edmonton region.

Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Want to reach the smartest, most-engaged people in the Edmonton region? Learn more about advertising with Taproot Edmonton!

Council decided to keep meeting times as is, but it recommends a shorter summer vacation for future councils. Plus, there was heated discussion about river valley development, incentives for student housing, and what to do about Edmonton City Centre.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Council calendar

• Council says no to longer meetings but does reduce summer break

Social media

• Report: Aug. 19, 2025 - Social Media Engagement

River Valley ARP

• Heated discussion on Edmonton river valley redevelopment plan at city hall

Student housing

• News Release: More students find a home in downtown Edmonton with new housing fund
• Downtown Student Housing Incentive

Edmonton City Centre

• Visionary says Edmonton needs to look elsewhere to re-imagine its downtown mall
• Puneeta McBryan's LinkedIn post

Election stuff

• Voters told Taproot they want better bike lanes and data, and worry about provincial involvement
• A Plan for Responsible Infill and Growth — Andrew Knack for Mayor
• Smart Growth, Strong Neighbourhoods: The Right Approach to Infill in Edmonton - Tim Cartmell for Mayor

Rapid fire

• Edmonton is setting new rules for pets. Here's what you need to know
• String of distraction thefts across Canada prompts police warning
• Edmonton Pride Parade

Election project

• What issues do you care about as you consider who to vote for in the 2025 municipal election, and why?
• A progress report on Taproot's election project
• What we heard at our election listening sessions

This episode is brought to you by the Alberta Motor Association, which can help you with more than just towing your vehicle. Whether it's a celebration, catching up with friends over dinner, or a date night, AMA can help save you money when you dine out. Plus, for a limited time, you'll get 3 months free when you purchase a Community membership. Click the link to learn more. Learn more.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, the most reliable source of intelligence about what's happening in the Edmonton region. Through curiosity-driven original stories, tailored and useful newsletters, a comprehensive and innovative events calendar, and thought-provoking podcasts, we inform, connect, and inspire a more vibrant, engaged, and resilient Edmonton region.

Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

This week, we drive into the wonderful world of transit memes aboard route #4. Plus, the push to close 76 Avenue to cars, the latest efforts to address noisy vehicles, and the need to repair community league facilities.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Police blotter

• 'Unleashing': Politicians Say Ex-Police Watchdog's Insults Go Too Far

Transit love

• How two transit movements take similar routes to highlight positivity in place of negativity
• Wellbeing In Transit : Design Jam
• May 2011: Leading the Way: LRT Dance Party in Edmonton

76 Avenue

• January 2025: 'Bold' vision for 76 Ave calls for rerouting vehicle traffic
• City hall committee recommends Mill Creek bridge replacements, daylighting creek

Campaign contributions

• Voters told Taproot they want campaign contributions disclosed before the election

Noisy vehicles

• July 2024: $1,000 tickets haven't stopped noisy vehicles: councillor
• February 2023: Obnoxiously loud vehicles will be fined $1K following changes to bylaw passed by Edmonton city council
• February 2021: Edmonton noisy vehicle enforcement pilot sees mixed results

Community leagues

• Report shows community league facilities need $30M by 2028 and $100M by 2035

Rapid fire

• Edmonton mayoral candidate Andrew Knack takes campaign to sidewalk — literally
• Alberta to launch anti-speeding campaign following 'deeply concerning' surge in fatal collisions in Edmonton
• Las Vegas is hurting as tourism drops. Are Canadians behind the Sin City slump?

Election project

• What issues do you care about as you consider who to vote for in the 2025 municipal election, and why?
• A progress report on Taproot's election project
• What we heard at our election listening sessions

This episode is brought to you by Park Power, your friendly, local utilities provider (and title sponsor of Taproot's Regional Roundup). Park Power offers electricity, natural gas, and internet to homes, businesses, and farms throughout Alberta. Learn more at parkpower.ca.

This episode is also brought to you by The Workup, a downtown coworking space featuring cozy common areas, adorned with flourishing greenery, which offer a tranquil retreat to unwind or casually collaborate with team members amidst a backdrop of radiant natural sunlight. Learn More ➔

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, the most reliable source of intelligence about what's happening in the Edmonton region. Through curiosity-driven original stories, tailored and useful newsletters, a comprehensive and innovative events calendar, and thought-provoking podcasts, we inform, connect, and inspire a more vibrant, engaged, and resilient Edmonton region.

Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Edmonton is building fewer parking spaces than housing units, St. Albert is trying to grow its downtown population, Hawrelak Park could open by the end of the year, and we look at the City's new mowing map.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Downtown St. Albert

• Why St. Albert's downtown could be welcoming a lot more residents

Parking

• Edmonton building fewer parking stalls than infill housing units

Election news

• Keith Gerein: With 75 days to go, Edmonton mayoral race missing a front-runner
• Keith Gerein: Frustrated Cartmell was his own worst enemy during council's hearing on Edmonton infill
• Explainer: What's a weak mayor — and why could it matter for the 2025 election?
• Explainer: The role of parties and slates in the 2025 election

Mowing map

• Mowing Map
• Coun. Ashley Salvador on TikTok
• Parkland Care

Hawrelak Park

• Hawrelak Park to reopen in late 2025 after years-long rehabilitation closure

Rapid fire

• Jasper will ask province to fast-track Edmonton rail connection
• Jasper Avenue office tower to be partly converted to residential space
• Alberta creates exclusion zone around collisions to deter predatory tow truck drivers

Election project

• What issues do you care about as you consider who to vote for in the 2025 municipal election, and why?
• A progress report on Taproot's election project
• What we heard at our election listening sessions

This episode is brought to you by the Alberta Motor Association, which can help you with more than just towing your vehicle. Whether it's a cruise, a European tour, or a family trip to Disneyland, AMA travel experts can help you save! Plus, for a limited time, you'll get 3 months free when you purchase a Community membership. Learn more.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, the most reliable source of intelligence about what's happening in the Edmonton region. Through curiosity-driven original stories, tailored and useful newsletters, a comprehensive and innovative events calendar, and thought-provoking podcasts, we inform, connect, and inspire a more vibrant, engaged, and resilient Edmonton region.

Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Taproot co-founder Karen Unland returns to the show to talk about how we are approaching the 2025 municipal election and the impact we hope to have. We've also got clips from an interview with Coun. Michael Janz about infill.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Karen Unland

• Karen on LinkedIn
• Speaking Municipally: Episode 127

Election project

• What issues do you care about as you consider who to vote for in the 2025 municipal election, and why?
• A progress report on Taproot's election project
• What we heard at our election listening sessions

Michael Janz

• Michael Janz
• Infill: FAQ
• Edmonton infill debate: city councillor wants to build bigger buildings along LRT routes

This episode is brought to you by The Workup, a downtown coworking space featuring cozy common areas, adorned with flourishing greenery, which offer a tranquil retreat to unwind or casually collaborate with team members amidst a backdrop of radiant natural sunlight. Learn More ➔

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, the most reliable source of intelligence about what's happening in the Edmonton region. Through curiosity-driven original stories, tailored and useful newsletters, a comprehensive and innovative events calendar, and thought-provoking podcasts, we inform, connect, and inspire a more vibrant, engaged, and resilient Edmonton region.

Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

We're back with a discussion about changes we are making for election season. Namely, Troy will take a hiatus from the show. We discuss why and what that means for the show going forward.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Troy Pavlek

• TroyPavlek.ca
• troypavlek on TikTok
• troypavlek on X

Rapid fire

• Pickle-dusted doughnuts, pb&j chicken among new KDays food creations
• 'F--k you, Jo-Anne': Tempers flare in city council chambers
• Ex-UCP MLAs to join, rebrand Alberta Party instead of rebooting Progressive Conservatives from scratch

Election project

• What issues do you care about as you consider who to vote for in the 2025 municipal election, and why?
• A progress report on Taproot's election project
• What we heard at our election listening sessions

This episode is brought to you by the Alberta Motor Association, which can help you with more than just towing your vehicle. Whether it's a cruise, a European tour, or a family trip to Disneyland, AMA travel experts can help you save! Plus, for a limited time, you'll get 3 months free when you purchase a Community membership. Learn more.

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, the most reliable source of intelligence about what's happening in the Edmonton region. Through curiosity-driven original stories, tailored and useful newsletters, a comprehensive and innovative events calendar, and thought-provoking podcasts, we inform, connect, and inspire a more vibrant, engaged, and resilient Edmonton region.

Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Council is about to start its summer break, but not before making a bunch of decisions that could shape the future of Edmonton. Infill and the zoning bylaw changes are the big item again this week, but we also talk about the Downtown CRL extension, the Winspear Centre expansion, road widening, a proposal for free parking, and more.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

CRL

• Edmonton council extends Downtown CRL, ending two days of debate

Winspear Centre

• October 2024: Winspear expansion in final push for fundraising and construction
• City Council - March 18, 2025

Bike skills park

• Edmonton approves seven-acre mountain bike facility in river valley

Parking ban towing

• City approves return of tow trucks during parking bans

Downtown district energy

• News Release: City Council approves growth of Downtown District Energy Initiative

Infill and zoning bylaw

• Here are the proposed changes to Edmonton's zoning bylaw set for debate this week
• 'Absolute mess': Public put on hold as city council wades through marathon zoning session
• Edmonton city councillor's infill moratorium attempt fails for legal reasons
• Edmonton councillors blast Cartmell for failed infill motion
• Zoning bylaw debate poses some thorny issues for Edmonton council

Free parking

• Free parking plan aims to revive Edmonton's core

Road widening

• Edmonton looking to widen some roads due to growing traffic congestion

Rapid fire

• Frats and sororities, evicted by U of A, struggle to find housing in Garneau
• Ex-UCP MLAs reviving Alberta's Progressive Conservative Party
• Alberta posts surplus of $8.3B in 2024-25 fiscal year

Election project

• What issues do you care about as you consider who to vote for in the 2025 municipal election, and why?
• A progress report on Taproot's election project
• What we heard at our election listening sessions

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Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, the most reliable source of intelligence about what's happening in the Edmonton region. Through curiosity-driven original stories, tailored and useful newsletters, a comprehensive and innovative events calendar, and thought-provoking podcasts, we inform, connect, and inspire a more vibrant, engaged, and resilient Edmonton region.

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We discuss the proposed moratorium on infill development, the extension of the Downtown Community Revitalization Levy, and the return of former MP Rahim Jaffer to municipal politics. We also look at how changes to vote counting will affect the 2025 municipal election, and the end of photo radar in playground zones.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Infill moratorium

• Cartmell to call for moratorium on new infill development in Edmonton
• Edmonton city councillor and mayoral candidate calls for infill moratorium
• Lorne Gunter: Cartmell opposition to infill weak, better than alternative

CRL extension

• 'A generational investment': Edmonton business groups warn of consequences if Downtown CRL extension fails
• Mayor Sohi pitches extension of Downtown CRL ahead of public hearings
• Edmontonians should have a referendum this municipal election: Should taxpayers provide $88.5 million to the Oilers Entertainment Group for a new Event Park? - Michael Janz
• A Better Deal for Edmontonians — Andrew Knack for Mayor
• Future of downtown development to be debated over 2 days at Edmonton public hearing

Rahim Jaffer

• Former conservative MP Rahim Jaffer running for mayor, after years out of the public eye
• Former MP Rahim Jaffer launches bid to be Edmonton's mayor

Election costs

• Ban on tabulators means election results will arrive much later in 2025, official says
• Analysis: How changes to the way votes are counted will affect municipalities across the Edmonton region in 2025

Photo radar

• News Release: City evolves playground zone traffic safety strategy
• Edmonton scraps playground zone photo radar amid low tickets: 'No longer financially sustainable'

Rapid fire

• Edmonton Oilers trade Evander Kane to rival Vancouver Canucks
• Edmonton Blatchford homes forming virtual power plant

Election project

• What issues do you care about as you consider who to vote for in the 2025 municipal election, and why?
• A progress report on Taproot's election project

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, the most reliable source of intelligence about what's happening in the Edmonton region. Through curiosity-driven original stories, tailored and useful newsletters, a comprehensive and innovative events calendar, and thought-provoking podcasts, we inform, connect, and inspire a more vibrant, engaged, and resilient Edmonton region.

Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!

Council is looking to reduce the maximum number of midblock infill units to six per lot from eight. Plus, entertainment districts are exempt from the single use plastic bylaw.

Here are the relevant links for this episode:

Midblock infill

• Edmonton may revise zoning bylaw to reduce mid-block multi-family units
• Edmonton council votes to reduce maximum homes on RS zone lots to six from eight

Street design standards

• Overhaul of street design standards could help Edmonton's finances

Parking bans

• Edmonton councillors recommend lowering seasonal parking ban fine, reinstating towing

Single use plastics

• City chose single-use plastics for its entertainment districts despite bylaw and concerns

Anti-racism

• Edmonton to establish new independent body under anti-racism strategy

Rapid fire

• Crestwood Reddit thread
• Game over: Edmonton Oilers Stanley Cup dreams die again in Florida
• Trump departs G7 summit early, citing Middle East, as U.S. and Canada aim for deal within 30 days

Election project

• What issues do you care about as you consider who to vote for in the 2025 municipal election, and why?
• A progress report on Taproot's election project

Speaking Municipally is produced by Taproot Edmonton, the most reliable source of intelligence about what's happening in the Edmonton region. Through curiosity-driven original stories, tailored and useful newsletters, a comprehensive and innovative events calendar, and thought-provoking podcasts, we inform, connect, and inspire a more vibrant, engaged, and resilient Edmonton region.

Sign up to get The Pulse, our weekday news briefing. It's free!