Mayor Andrew Knack had a dynamic 2025 with significant changes. Initially opting out of re-election as a councilor, he later ran for mayor and emerged victorious. Reflecting on this shift during a year-end interview in mid-December at city hall, Knack expressed that fully embracing the mayor’s responsibilities after serving on the council for 12 years was still sinking in. He highlighted the urgency of addressing unfinished business from the previous council and emphasized his immediate focus on budget restructuring, resolving infill issues, and enhancing collaboration with provincial and federal authorities for the upcoming year.
Knack acknowledged the recent 6.9% property tax increase approved by the council and outlined his vision for a revamped budget process to avoid drastic fluctuations in tax rates over time. Despite Edmonton being recognized as the most affordable major city in Canada, Knack underscored the importance of engaging with the community to have transparent discussions about the city’s operational costs and residents’ priorities to establish a solid budget foundation.
In his first act as mayor, Knack prioritized creating additional daytime spaces for homeless individuals, emphasizing the broader public safety dialogue. He emphasized the need to reevaluate the annual $91 million spent by the city on homelessness, mental health, and addiction responses to maximize effectiveness, potentially through collaborative efforts with the provincial government. Knack stressed the community’s demand for visible progress in addressing these challenges and highlighted the immediate action taken to expand winter warming spaces.
Responding to comments from the Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services regarding the necessity of day shelter spaces, Knack emphasized the importance of clear communication and collaboration with the provincial government to align objectives and initiatives. He emphasized the positive outcomes of discussions with provincial officials and highlighted the need for ongoing dialogue to ensure mutual understanding and effective coordination on critical issues.
Looking ahead, Knack proposed revisiting zoning and infill policies to address common concerns raised by residents, such as building height, unit numbers, and tree preservation. Recognizing Edmonton’s success in housing affordability, Knack aimed to streamline the infill process to incorporate community feedback and enhance the overall urban development strategy. By addressing these refinements, he aimed to alleviate concerns and foster community support for ongoing infill projects.
Knack expressed optimism about the alignment between the federal, provincial, and municipal governments in tackling pressing issues, signaling a collaborative approach moving forward. His proactive stance on budgeting, homelessness, and urban development highlights his commitment to effective governance and community engagement in shaping Edmonton’s future.