A Debrief of Alberta’s 2025 Municipal Elections
Political Gossip with Friends - a Nonprofits Vote event
It’s been nearly a month since newly elected councillors and mayors across Alberta stepped into their roles. Just days after voters went to the polls, Nonprofits Vote gathered political insiders to unpack what happened – and what nonprofits should expect from the next four years.
Moderated by Annalise Klingbeil, our panel featured Matt Solberg, Jack Lucas, Rachel Swendseid, and Jason Markusoff. Their combined experience, from newsrooms to council chambers, offered valuable insights into the rise of municipal parties, shifting voter sentiment, and the opportunities ahead for nonprofit advocacy.
Here are our key takeaways.
A Hunger for Change
Municipal results showed a clear desire for new leadership. Incumbents' re-election rates dropped across the province: Medicine Hat elected an entirely new council (aside from the returning Mayor), while Edmonton retained the most incumbents with eight of 12 seats returning.
Jack Lucas noted that this aligns with a broader global trend of dissatisfaction with incumbents, compounded by Alberta-specific frustrations. The arrival of municipal parties in this environment didn’t necessarily drive outcomes, but it did heighten voter attention to ideological differences – especially on issues like growth, public safety, and housing.
Opportunities for nonprofits
Engage with new councillors who can support your initiatives - this is an opportunity for nonprofits to help educate and provide information on their missions and areas of focus within the community.
Reach out to new councillors who may be looking to get involved.
Introduce your organization’s role in supporting community well-being and local services.
Build open lines of communication to streamline information sharing.
Here’s some how-to tips:
Councils with Murky Mandates
With so many new councillors - many new to the political arena – Alberta’s municipal councils begin this term with a relatively blank slate. Some candidates ran independently, while others aligned with emerging municipal parties. As Matt Solberg noted in the pre- and post-election panels, it’s still unclear how these dynamics will play out in council chambers.
Because campaign platforms rarely cover every issue, councillor positions on major files remain unknown. While this presents challenges for mayors trying to build consensus, it also creates opportunity for nonprofits to help shape early priorities.
Opportunities for nonprofits
Remember, any member of council could help support your initiatives.
Identify potential champions and request introductory meetings.
Use stories, data, and other evidence to demonstrate the value of your work.
Share your policy agenda and highlight where your organization can help fill service gaps or support innovation.
Here’s some how-to tips:
The Ballot-Box Question of Growth
Alberta's population growth – now topping 5-million residents - has placed pressure on both urban and rural communities. As Rachel Swendseid emphasized, municipalities must now grapple with the infrastructure, service, and social impacts of rapid expansion.
Opportunities for nonprofits
While municipalities figure out how to grow sustainably, nonprofits should identify where they fit and what they provide in filling service gaps.
Show how your programs support newcomers, families, and vulnerable populations during times of change.
Bring forward data that illustrates demand for your services.
Show how your services are cost effective.
Participate in growth planning conversations and present to council when possible and relevant.
Municipal Parties: Hype vs. Reality
Despite their visibility during campaign season, municipal parties didn’t deliver the sweeping influence many expected. Jason Markusoff noted that public skepticism and animosity towards party politics may have discouraged voter turnout. Many platforms were underdeveloped, which creates space for parties to strengthen their structures in the years between elections.
Opportunities for nonprofits
The municipal party system has been confirmed it’s here to stay but won’t be expanded to other cities.
Monitor party activity during the off-season – there may be parties defining their identity and policy focus.
Look for opportunities to collaborate early on shared priorities before the next campaign cycle ramps up.
Fostering a Healthy Democratic System through Positive Connections
Much of the 2025 municipal campaigns happened online, reinforcing the sway of digital engagement. Yet as we look ahead, Rachel Swendseid reminded us of the importance of in-person dialogue and constructive civic debate. Strong democratic culture encourages community problem-solving and inspires future candidates to step forward.
Opportunities for nonprofits
Nonprofits play a central role in shaping that culture. By building relationships, sharing evidence, and fostering positive dialogue, the sector can help councils navigate change and strengthen communities across Alberta.