Every week in the lead up to Edmonton's municipal election on Oct. 18 we're rounding up the news and announcements you need to know to stay informed.
- Candidate Michael Oshry proposed that city-owned recreation centres be available at no cost between 3:30pm and 5:30pm for anyone younger than 18. The proposal would also introduce bus transportation "from the 100 highest-need schools in the city to the closest facility."
- A recent CBC survey polling city issues found addressing homelessness is essential to a mayoral platform. Of 900 participants, 80% voted the concern "highly important." The same survey indicated that systematic racism is also important for candidates to address, and that road maintenance is more critical to voters than the expansion of bike lanes.
- The survey also found that "Mayor Don Iveson is heading out of city hall on a high with 73% approval." Political strategists say candidates should adopt Iveson's "regional approach" to be successful.
- Edmonton Public Schools officially requested a rewrite of the draft K-6 curriculum citing "mistakes" and a lack of "diverse perspectives." Board trustee Michael Janz proposed a motion that would request referendum questions about the curriculum on the municipal election ballot.
- Last week, Edmonton Elections hosted a virtual information session on third party advertising for "aspiring candidates." Anyone interested in running as a city council or school board trustee candidate in 2021 can subscribe to their newsletter for information and events.
A list of all of the candidates who have announced they are running in the Edmonton municipal election is available here.
What key issue do you want the candidates to be talking about as they compete for your votes? Add your voice to the People's Agenda.
Photo: Mack Male/Flickr