Calgary has found itself facing not only the looming question of transit reliability but also the deeply tangled web of municipal politics. Ward 3 Councillor Jasmine Mian, once dedicated to serving her community, announced she won’t seek re-election this fall, citing significant disillusionment stemming from provincial intervention and the rise of partisan politics.
During a city council meeting on Tuesday, Mian expressed frustration toward the provincial government’s influence on the long-delayed Green Line LRT project, which is supposed to connect Calgary’s downtown with the north side of the city. "We're staring down the barrel of a gun, being told to do what the provincial government says and to pay for it as well," Mian told CBC News. She underscored her belief this approach jeopardizes the integrity and effectiveness of the governance system, as the city grapples with the necessity to balance compromises against city accountability.
For Mian, the decision to step away was also about witnessing how the functions of city council have succumbed to political gamesmanship, particularly following the political ascension of former Calgary mayor Naheed Nenshi to the Alberta NDP leadership. Mian indicated the narratives around the Green Line shifted toward political points scoring rather than serving the people of Calgary—risking both the project’s quality and final costs.
"I think cities are really a pawn in this larger political game," Mian lamented, noting how thoughtful governance seems sacrificed on the altar of partisan point-scoring. Her sentiments resonate with those of other councillors, including Ward 12 Councillor Evan Spencer, who recently declared he will not run for re-election as well. Spencer highlighted the troubling trend toward grandstanding over collaboration. This dynamic, both Mian and Spencer argue, creates discord and stifles progress.
The broader implications of these shifting priorities have not gone unnoticed. Former Ward 12 Councillor Shane Keaking commented, "You're supposed to be there to do the best job you can for the citizens of Calgary," reflecting on the increasing presence of partisan politics. He conveyed concern over the vicious cycles generated by dissent which could deter effective leaders from seeking office.
Mian's decision not to run for another term is amplified by the turbulent political climate surrounding Calgary's upcoming municipal elections. This fall’s election is also remarkable for being the first where political parties will play significant roles, adding another layer to the already complex dynamics of local governance.
Calgary’s voters will head to the polls with no incumbent for Ward 3 for the third consecutive election, following Mian's departure. Jyoti Gondek held the post from 2017 to 2021 before running for mayor, with Jim Stevenson representing the ward prior from 2007 to 2017.
Through her mounting concerns over the Green Line, Mian drew attention to the potential repercussions of continued provincial intervention. Minister of Transportation Devin Dreeshen remarked he wouldn't speculate on why council members may or may not seek re-election but acknowledged hearing frustrations about council dynamics within Calgary.
The specter of increased partisanship looms over the upcoming municipal elections. Worries are raised about whether political parties will dilute individual accountability among councillors, with Mian advocating for representatives to focus on serving constituents first rather than succumb to party mandates.
With the backdrop of the proposals on the Green Line, former councillor Keaking described it as "a disaster by descending to partisan, nitpicking politics.” His advocacy for meaningful governance echoes through the municipal arena as the city seeks its next leaders.
By the time voters go to the polls this fall, several have already voiced reluctance to engage due merely to the visible political infighting. The potential of burnout among councillors may shape the city’s ability to maintain long-term strategic governance.
Currently, Mayor Gondek and seven other councillors have expressed intent to seek re-election, swinging the doors open for multiple newcomers who might bring fresh perspectives. Yet, as Mian departs, it poses the question: how much political maneuvering will continue to overshadow the essentials of Calgary's development and progress?
The upcoming municipal election isn't just about filling seats. It reflects the city's grappling identity as it navigates through this political maze, aiming to balance effective governance with integrity, community engagement, and the unyielding pursuit of progress.