Michael Walters is running to be Mayor of Edmonton

Media Release
Michael Walters is running to be Mayor of Edmonton

Edmonton – Michael Walters will be on the ballot this October as a candidate for Mayor of Edmonton.
He believes Edmonton is just beginning to show its promise. We have had a wonderful past, and an even brighter future lies ahead. There are, as always, some things that can be done better. But all of the issues we face in Edmonton are good problems to have.

Road construction delays are annoying, but they are a function of our growth. The zoning and land use challenges we’ve experienced are due to an incredible
influx of population, and LRT construction headaches today will lead to an enhanced transit system tomorrow. With thoughtful leadership and decisive action, all of these challenges will be overcome.

We need to do a better job of managing our growing pains, but it’s far better to be growing as a city than going the other way. We have some of the world’s best educational institutions, the most affordable housing of any big city in Canada, a young, enthusiastic and ambitious workforce, and plenty of capital
waiting to be put to work. The future for Edmonton is bright, and Michael Walters is running to earn the chance to help shape it.

His campaign will focus on four broad policy pillars:
Affordability – Edmontonians are stretching every dollar—City Hall must do the same. We’ll fast-track housing, reform infill rules to balance ambition with local voices, drive savings in large capital projects,
and focus spending. Smart growth and fair budgets will protect Edmonton’s affordability advantage.
Safety and Compassion – It is absolutely critical that Edmontonians feel safe in their city, and lately that has not always been the case. Real safety means accountability, prevention and compassion. We’ll
expand mental health teams, support police, invest in youth, and partner with the Province to build housing, treat addiction, and reduce encampments. Edmonton deserves upstream solutions that save
lives and keep every neighbourhood safe.
Success – A successful city is one that delivers excellent services and enables people and businesses to thrive. Edmontonians deserve results. We’ll get our transit projects done, improve rider safety, and cut construction traffic delays by 25%. We’ll cut the grass and clear snow, properly. We’ll back local
businesses with faster service, “buy local” policies, and renewed, vibrant main streets. We must ensure Edmonton continues to be a place that offers people the opportunity to build a better life.
Civic Pride – Edmonton should feel vibrant, fun and full of life. We’ll invest in great public spaces, ensure people who are struggling can access the support they need, elevate urban design, and get big infill sites like Blatchford and Rossdale moving, for once and for all. Let’s build a city that inspires joy, attracts
investment, and grows smart—unlocking housing and beauty without raising taxes. Smarter growth saves you money in the long run. It’s time to deliver.

Michael Walters’ Background:
Michael Walters began his career 30 years ago as a community organizer at Bissell Centre, on the front lines of supporting homeless Edmontonians, then working to help people and families create safer neighbourhoods and dignified housing. He led the Greater Edmonton Alliance, tackling issues around
smart growth and economic development. That work led him to municipal leadership where he served two terms on Edmonton City Council from 2013-2021. He did not seek office in the 2021 election and instead joined Berlin Communications, Edmonton’s premier communications and advertising agency, where he is a partner.
Michael Walters Quotes:
On Edmonton:
“I love Edmonton because it shaped who I am. It’s a city that tells the truth—tough when it needs to be,
generous when it matters. I’ve seen its challenges up close, but I’ve also seen what’s possible when
people come together. I believe in this place, because it’s worth every effort. Edmonton is a city that
rewards those who show up and do the work. And it always helps those who need it.”
On why he’s running:
“We can’t have a repeat of the last four years. We need to turn the page, be more focused and more
decisive. We need cool, calm and clear leadership grounded in collaboration – a leader that can work well
with anyone – across political and ideological lines.
The greatest responsibility of the Mayor and Council is to create the conditions for an Edmonton that
thrives and succeeds. That will be my focus. I know I can make a positive difference for Edmonton, and
help us fulfill our incredible civic potential.”

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