Mayor

Mayor

1 To Be Elected

Kristopher James Arcand: As a local business owner employing about 30 residents, I have extensive experience in leadership, decision-making, and building strong teams. These skills have taught me the importance of collaboration, accountability, and problem-solving. I will bring that same approach to council—creating a respectful, solutions-focused atmosphere and working alongside residents, community organizations, and foundations to ensure the needs of Grande Prairie are met.

Durque Babunga: No response.

Jackie Clayton: I’ve had the honour of serving as Mayor of Grande Prairie since 2021, following two terms on City Council and a period as Interim Mayor. Prior to public office, I spent over 20 years in business and marketing — opening and operating small businesses, leading regional marketing teams, and serving in senior leadership roles, including Vice President of Public Relations and Partnerships with Pomeroy Lodging. I’ve also been deeply involved in community leadership including as a 24-year Rotarian, a former Chair of the Chamber of Commerce, and on boards like Aquatera, Northwestern Polytechnic, and the Regional Health Advisory Council. These experiences have given me the ability to bring people together, manage budgets responsibly, and make practical, results-oriented decisions. My background in governance, entrepreneurship, and collaboration ensures I approach every issue with accountability, empathy, and a focus on solutions that work for our residents.

James Flack: In my 20s, I served as a Union Leader, successfully negotiating a four-year collective agreement and standing up for workers’ rights. That experience taught me how to navigate complex policies, advocate with integrity, and find solutions through dialogue and persistence. From 2013 to 2025, I worked in the oil patch, running shutdowns, fabrication jobs, and collaborating with people from every background and trade, often in the toughest conditions. Those years built my resilience, discipline, and understanding of what it means to work hard for a living. Today, through my mayoral campaign, I’ve connected directly with thousands of Grande Prairie residents both online and in person, listening, learning, and helping shape conversations that reach further than any city platform. These experiences have given me the leadership, communication, and community insight needed to serve effectively in this role

Jason Jones: Two decades of business leadership, organized lobby, adult instruction - my life's work has been navigating complex systems and relationships to the benefit of my employer and the community around me. Governance is not about how popular one is, whether they have 'political' experience - good governance comes down to - seeking to understand instead of being understood. I have been frontlines working in workforce development, training and coaching street engaged and barriered individuals into employment. I have watched single mothers beg for a box of cookies so their children can have a snack for school. Right up to navigating multi-million dollar deals that have saved hundreds of local jobs from attrition. I care about my neighbour.

Kris Kinney: No response.

Charlene Marie Nelson: No response.

Bryan Petryshyn: When I first moved to Grande Prairie in October of 2005, I worked for a courier service for a couple of years & personally saw the lack of winter road cleaning & maintenance. I've been the shop manager at Expert Mobile for the last 10 years. This has enabled me to build relationships with staff & customers, so their everyday needs are met.

Mayor

1 To Be Elected

Kristopher James Arcand: Some of the key issues I see in this election include the transition to our new local police service, taxes, infrastructure, snow removal, the Alberta separatist movement, transportation, and homelessness. All of these are important, but what matters most is addressing the issues residents bring forward. My commitment is to approach each concern with practical, SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) solutions that focus on what we can realistically achieve together as a community.

Durque Babunga: No response.

Jackie Clayton: Grande Prairie is growing quickly, and while that growth brings opportunity, it also brings challenges. From housing and healthcare to public safety and affordability. My approach to addressing these issues can be found at JackieClayton.ca and is guided by the six pillars of my Stronger Together platform: 1. Advocacy Many of the challenges Grande Prairie faces from physician shortages to high electricity distribution rates require strong advocacy at the provincial and federal level. I’ve built trusted relationships with government and regional partners to ensure our community’s voice is heard and our needs are prioritized. I’ll continue pushing for fair funding, equitable utility rates, and investment in northern healthcare and infrastructure. 2. Collaboration We’re stronger when we work together. Grande Prairie’s progress depends on continued collaboration with the County, MD of Greenview, and regional organizations like Invest Northwest. By sharing services, aligning priorities, and avoiding duplication, we can achieve more efficient, cost-effective results for residents and businesses. 3. Equitable Public Safety Public safety remains a top priority. As we complete the transition to the new Grande Prairie Police Service, my focus is on building a local model that is transparent, accountable, and community-driven, one that ensures every resident, in every neighbourhood, feels safe and supported. 4. Cost-Smart City Services The cost of everything is rising from fuel to fire trucks and residents expect us to spend wisely. I’ve consistently championed zero-based budgeting, performance reviews, and service efficiencies to ensure we deliver high-quality programs without unnecessary tax increases. Under my leadership, the City has kept taxes below inflation while maintaining the services people rely on. 5. Engagement & Proactive Communication Good governance starts with open communication. I believe residents should be informed, involved, and heard. Through consistent updates, open houses, and direct engagement, I’ll continue ensuring that decisions are made transparently and reflect the voices of our community. 6. Strategic Growth & Emerging Economic Opportunities Grande Prairie’s future depends on attracting new investment, supporting small business, and diversifying our economy. I’ll continue promoting value-added agriculture, green energy, and innovation-based industries while ensuring we maintain the strong infrastructure, housing supply, and skilled workforce to support that growth. In short my approach is practical, people-focused, and rooted in collaboration. Grande Prairie’s future success depends on leadership that listens, advocates, and delivers results.

James Flack: The biggest issues affecting Grande Prairie are affordability, housing, infrastructure, and food security. Too many residents are struggling to keep up with rising costs while our city’s core services and road networks fall behind growth. I also see a major disconnect between City Hall and the everyday citizen, people feel unheard. My approach is to restore trust through transparency and accountability. I would focus on lowering the mill rate over a three-year plan, supporting local builders to create attainable housing, and prioritizing infrastructure that benefits residents first, not just large projects. I also believe in partnerships: working with community groups, faith organizations, and small businesses to strengthen food security and social support networks. Grande Prairie has the resources and the people, we just need leadership that listens, unites, and acts

Jason Jones: Food Insecurity - Coordination at a local level - there seems to be a disconnect somewhere between non-profit service providers for emergency food distribution - also a symptom of economy - jobs will create a more competitive job market - hopefully increase wages. Housing Affordability (Homeowners included) - Initiatives such as gentle density to help individuals renew their mortgages and provide immediate spaces for new families - or - a surplus application to loan program where developers can get an interest free loan to build non-market (affordable) housing - graduated taxation for developments that include non-market single dwellings. Child Care (Full-time and Afterschool) - Lobby for change to how daycare providers are licensed and revisit the way their caps are evaluated to open more opportunities for spots - people are moving out of Grande Prairie because we don't have enough spots (decreasing tax base - we're left with the bills) - re-open Cool-Aid and expand afterschool programming - this is an investment in prevention of addiction and homelessness - we need to treat the problem not the symptom. Our children need mentorship not isolation. Seniors (Independent and Assisted Housing) - Lobby province - attract investment - incentivize through affordability initiatives to include senior spaces in developments. Economic Growth - We need to be aggressive and thinking outside the box - diversify our economy to include food processing and advanced manufacturing - even get a wood pellet plant going to render the wildfire burn off so we don't get pests taking out our crops. Everything can be a revenue source - our garbage - compost - all of it - find a way to make revenue - then we as residents can get some relief.

Kris Kinney: No response.

Charlene Marie Nelson: No response.

Bryan Petryshyn: Grande Prairie is a northern Alberta winter community, and road maintenance & winter clearing are number 1. Rental cost & housing purchase price have skyrocketed. The out-of-control spending from the City Council has caused the tax rate to become one of the highest in the province. Having the work completed by city employees instead of third-party contractors may save costs to the taxpayers. Rental cost could be resolved by the city looking into costs & fees. An in-depth financial review to resolve the massive overspending by the City Council. A stop to new capital projects that are a burden to the taxpayers. The Mayor & Council giving themselves a 40% pay raise over the last term & reviewing the payroll structure would resolve some of the burden as well.

Mayor

1 To Be Elected

Kristopher James Arcand: The role of a municipal government is suppose to represent the residents within the community. They (elected officials) should be reaching out to the community on a regular basis, finding out issues effecting our residents and bringing them to council so they can be dealt with. In this regard, I do not think our current officials fully represent the residents.

Durque Babunga: No response.

Jackie Clayton: Municipal government should focus on the essentials — public safety, infrastructure, utilities, recreation, land-use planning, and community well-being. We must deliver these services efficiently and transparently, while avoiding duplication or overreach into areas best managed by other levels of government. In short, the City must do the right things — and do them well.

James Flack: The role of a municipal government is to serve its residents by focusing on core responsibilities maintaining infrastructure, providing essential services, ensuring safety, and supporting local economic and community development. It should be the most accountable and transparent level of government because it’s closest to the people. Right now, I believe the City is trying to do too many things without always delivering on the essentials. Grande Prairie needs to get back to basics: efficient budgeting, well-maintained roads, affordable housing, and real community engagement. My approach would be to streamline priorities, cut wasteful spending, and ensure every dollar spent improves the quality of life for residents. Municipal government should empower citizens, not expand bureaucracy.

Jason Jones: Municipal government exists to be the central voice of negotiation between residents and upper levels of government and business. I do not believe the City has done an effective job in navigating our federal levels as they seem a little too closely politically aligned with the provincial parties. We need clear advocacy that is not tied to any political camp - or the results will always be one-sided.

Kris Kinney: No response.

Charlene Marie Nelson: No response.

Bryan Petryshyn: The primary role of a municipal government is to provide essential local services and make decisions on issues affecting the community. This includes managing public infrastructure like roads, utilities, and waste management, delivering social programs such as recreation and emergency services, and creating local rules through bylaws. I think the city does too many different projects. They have forgotten about the everyday needs of the people who have chosen to call Grande Prairie their home.

Mayor

1 To Be Elected

Kristopher James Arcand: Too high and taxpayers do not receive any services that make sense based off the amount taxes residents pay as compared to our peer cities in Alberta.

Durque Babunga: No response.

Jackie Clayton: I believe property taxes are at the upper limit of what families and businesses can reasonably afford. During my time as Mayor, we’ve kept taxes significantly below the rate of inflation, while still maintaining the quality of services residents rely on. Going forward, my goal is to continue finding efficiencies so that any future increases are both justified and minimal. By starting every budget at a 0% increase and expecting demanding value for every dollar spent, taking a Cost-smart Services approach.

James Flack: I believe property taxes in Grande Prairie are too high relative to the value residents and businesses receive. Our city has strong revenue but isn’t always spending efficiently. Many families and small business owners are struggling with affordability while watching costs rise across the board. My goal is to implement a three-year plan to responsibly lower the mill rate through smarter budgeting, better asset management, and prioritizing essential infrastructure over discretionary spending. By improving efficiency rather than cutting services, we can make Grande Prairie more affordable, competitive, and fair for taxpayers

Jason Jones: Too high - that is why we stable, managed growth - people come and work here then leave - residents are left with picking up the tab - we need manufacturing and food processing - if a magical pipeline happens then bonus - we need residents - not more workers - solve that - we solve our tax problem.

Kris Kinney: No response.

Charlene Marie Nelson: No response.

Bryan Petryshyn: Too high. Grande Prairie had the highest tax rate in the province until 2022, when Wetaskiwin climbed above us. https://www.mpamag.com/ca/mortgage-industry/guides/we-found-the-highest-property-taxes-in-alberta/527000

Mayor

1 To Be Elected

Kristopher James Arcand: Over the next four years, I support growing the City budget slightly faster than inflation and population growth—but only in targeted areas that residents feel most. Using SMART goals, that means setting clear priorities (roads, policing transition, snow removal), measuring progress through per-resident spending and service outcomes, and reporting annually so residents see where every dollar goes.

Durque Babunga: No response.

Jackie Clayton: The City should only consider a spending increase at or below the rate of inflation and population growth, and only when clearly tied to essential services or strategic priorities. Every budget should begin at zero increase forcing each department to justify every dollar spent to ensure our community continues to grow responsibly without adding unnecessary burden to taxpayers.

James Flack: The City should increase spending by less than the rate of inflation and population growth, focusing on smarter investments rather than bigger budgets. My $71 million Overpass and Infrastructure Plan is an example of this approach, it redirects existing funds toward long-term assets that improve traffic flow, safety, and economic growth without raising taxes. By prioritizing projects that create real value for residents and businesses, we can modernize Grande Prairie responsibly, control costs, and ensure every dollar works harder for the community

Jason Jones: We should always look to spend less or at least ensure every dollar is stretched and services are not duplicated - however - this question is premised on the basis of scarcity. We need to also look at ways to expand revenue sources beyond burdening the tax payer. if we can create revenue sources as a municipality and community we would be fine spending more - because we have more - Grande Prairie should not have debt - that is my goal.

Kris Kinney: No response.

Charlene Marie Nelson: No response.

Bryan Petryshyn: Over the next 4 years, the city needs to make smart financial choices & achieve high value for the taxpayers' dollar.

Mayor

1 To Be Elected

Kristopher James Arcand: Should be put into a slush fund so the city can save for future capital projects.

Durque Babunga: No response.

Jackie Clayton: Some clarification. The City doesn't 'claim' to find savings, the annual budget is exactly that, a budget. Revenues are somewhat of a moving target as growth plays a key role. The cost of things like fuel and asphalt continue to climb and at times with no notice. On an approximately $275 million budget it is usually within 1-2% However, when the is a surplus realized following the annual financial review, it comes with recommendations which Council then discusses, debates and ultimately finalizes at the Annual Budget. Each City Reserve has specific uses, criteria, minimum levels and parameters. Council on a few occasions has uses the Financial Stabilization Reserve to reduce taxes as you suggest.

James Flack: If the City ends a year with extra funds, that money doesn’t belong to City Hall, it belongs to the people. True savings should mean reducing the burden on taxpayers, not quietly rolling surplus dollars into reserve accounts for future spending. I believe a portion of any surplus should go back to residents through a mill rate adjustment or rebate, proving the City values efficiency and accountability. The remainder should be directed toward high-impact, community-building projects, like my proposed $72 million Overpass and Infrastructure Plan, that deliver long-term value without new tax increases. Grande Prairie doesn’t need to spend more; it needs to spend smarter, with transparency at every step

Jason Jones: I am mixed honestly - I would like a rebate as a tax payer - yet - are there places we can invest it in to possibly grow our tax base? Planting flowers downtown does not sit well with me - now - if we used surplus monies to offer interest free loans that are used as seed money by developers to expand affordable housing starts - that is something I would be okay with - money isn't really being spent - yet is in play to expand available housing which will expand our tax base - which will in turn lower our taxes overall - then the surplus monies is recycled again into more interest free loans - multiplying our extra monies impact.

Kris Kinney: No response.

Charlene Marie Nelson: No response.

Bryan Petryshyn: It should be used in the next financial year & the tax rate should be lowered. Not wasted on other small pop-up projects.

Mayor

1 To Be Elected

Kristopher James Arcand: For me, affordable housing means making sure every resident in Grande Prairie, from young families to seniors: to our most vulnerable has a safe and stable place to call home. It’s not an either-or between general affordability and subsidized housing; we need both. As mayor, I would: Support subsidized and supportive housing for lower-income residents, because prevention and stable housing are critical to ending chronic homelessness. (This ties directly to my SMART goal of creating 150 affordable/supportive units and reducing chronic homelessness by 40% in 3 years.) Work to keep market housing affordable by streamlining permits, encouraging diverse housing types, and partnering with builders to reduce red tape and construction costs. By combining these approaches, we can stabilize rents, prevent evictions, and ensure no one is left behind all while being transparent and accountable through measurable SMART goals.

Durque Babunga: No response.

Jackie Clayton: Affordable housing means having a range of housing options so every resident, from young families to seniors. Every resident should be able to find a safe, stable place to live. However subsidized housing is actually a provincial priority and should be funded accordingly. I believe in a balanced approach: - Support and partner on subsidized or supportive housing where needed. To make new construction viable, we expanded our Development Incentive Grants, increased municipal fee rebates, and introduced tax incentives for large apartment projects. These programs have already helped drive over 230 new units this year alone, with more than 700 expected by year-end. - Streamline approvals and reduce barriers to encourage more market housing supply. - Collaborate with developers, non-profits, and the Province to ensure affordability across the entire housing spectrum. Housing is about more than numbers, it’s about stability for families, affordability for seniors, and opportunity for workers. My commitment is to keep using smart incentives, strong partnerships, and city leadership to ensure Grande Prairie grows with housing options.

James Flack: When I talk about affordable housing, I’m talking about attainable living, creating pathways for every resident, from the homeless to working families, to have a stable, dignified place to call home. For me, affordability is not just about subsidies; it’s about removing the barriers that make housing artificially expensive. The City’s role is to partner, not overreach, to streamline permits, release serviced land faster, and work with local builders and non-profits to increase supply across all levels of housing. We can keep prices fair by reducing red tape, supporting modular and infill developments, and ensuring our infrastructure investments align with population growth. At the same time, I believe in compassionate, targeted supports. My Shelter to Sovereignty framework is built on three steps: shelter for immediate safety, transitional housing for stability and skill development, and sovereignty through independent living and ownership. This model helps the homeless rebuild stability while protecting working families from being priced out. The goal isn’t to create dependency, it’s to restore dignity. Grande Prairie should lead with balanced, transparent housing policies that keep costs under control, support those in need, and build a city where everyone has the chance to rise.

Jason Jones: We win the war against homelessness - by FIRST keeping people in their homes - homeowners and vulnerable - how do we keep each one in their homes - a priority. I don't believe subsidies are the long-term solution - we could use better levers. We should create incentives for affordable housing to be included in every development - this way we don't have 'areas' of low income - instead everyone has dignity in where they get to live as opportunities will be all over the city.

Kris Kinney: No response.

Charlene Marie Nelson: No response.

Bryan Petryshyn: I don't think the city should be subsidizing housing for lower-income residents. I think the city needs to build new homes & have lower-income residents live in them at a structured rent/maintenance cost. Rent control.

Mayor

1 To Be Elected

Kristopher James Arcand: Public sector unions are essential partners in delivering the services residents depend on. I respect the role they play in representing workers and ensuring fair treatment. At the same time, I will safeguard fiscal responsibility by seeking agreements that are competitive but sustainable, improving efficiency, and keeping taxpayers informed. My approach I believe is collaborative and fair to employees while accountable to residents.

Durque Babunga: No response.

Jackie Clayton: Public sector unions are significant part of our organization and fair compensation is key to attracting and retaining quality employees. However, agreements must also be sustainable and fiscally responsible. Negotiations should be data-driven, benchmarked against peer municipalities, and conducted in good faith, ensuring that we protect both employees and taxpayers by maintaining balance and transparency.

James Flack: I have deep respect for the role unions play in representing workers, I was a union leader myself in my 20s, negotiating a four-year collective agreement and fighting for fair treatment on behalf of our members. That experience taught me that collective bargaining works best when it’s built on mutual respect, transparency, and shared accountability. Public sector unions are vital to maintaining quality city services and protecting workers’ rights, but those agreements must also reflect the City’s financial reality and duty to taxpayers. As Mayor, I would ensure negotiations are data-driven and transparent, with clear fiscal parameters set before bargaining begins. The goal is balance, ensuring employees are valued, supported, and fairly compensated, while keeping compensation growth sustainable and tied to performance and productivity. Strong labour relations and fiscal responsibility are not opposites; they are both essential to a stable, accountable, and trusted municipal government.

Jason Jones: Fair and Open communication. Manage the complex relationship - ensure a firm advocacy on behalf of tax payers.

Kris Kinney: No response.

Charlene Marie Nelson: No response.

Bryan Petryshyn: To ensure union negotiations don't compromise fiscal responsibility, establish clear financial "red lines" or non-negotiable limits, conduct thorough research into economic conditions and industry trends to inform your position, prioritize essential issues, propose creative "win-win" solutions that offer benefits beyond just salary, and maintain open and transparent communication to build trust and facilitate compromises that respect the employer's financial constraints.

Mayor

1 To Be Elected

Kristopher James Arcand: As a business owner who has dealt with tariffs firsthand, I understand the difficult choices these costs create. While it’s true that some of these expenses inevitably get passed on to consumers, I don’t believe the City should directly subsidize businesses. Instead, Council can play a supportive role by exploring options like flexible property tax deferrals or structured payment plans for businesses under strain. This approach would give businesses breathing room without compromising the City’s financial stability, while also showing that we value and support our local job creators.

Durque Babunga: No response.

Jackie Clayton: Council must continue to stand with local businesses facing cost pressures and supply chain challenges. My focus would be to: - Advocate provincially and federally for fair trade and tariff relief. - Support local procurement and “buy local” initiatives. - Streamline permits, licensing, and approvals to reduce red tape. - Encourage regional collaboration to attract investment and lower shared costs. Small business is the backbone of our local economy, and City Hall should be a partner, not a barrier, to their success.

James Flack: Global tariffs and supply chain disruptions are beyond the City’s direct control, but how we respond locally makes all the difference. Grande Prairie’s Council must act as a stabilizer, cutting red tape, reducing local costs, and strengthening regional self-reliance. First, I would expand local procurement policies so more City contracts go to local suppliers and trades. Keeping money circulating inside our community offsets global shocks. Second, I’d work with our Chamber of Commerce and small-business sector to identify supply gaps and develop regional partnerships that reduce dependence on distant imports. We can also explore tax incentives or fee deferrals for small businesses under pressure, paired with investment in local manufacturing, agriculture, and logistics capacity. My focus is on building economic sovereignty, empowering Grande Prairie to produce, source, and thrive locally even when global systems falter.

Jason Jones: We need to ensure we have a formal policy reflecting local procurement preferences - as a globally recognized supply chain professional - we need advocacy and transparency in the actual tariff impacts - it is my professional opinion that we are not experiencing tariff impacts - instead the whole of the global supply chain is in trouble. Global shipping rates are down, GDP is down - we as a nation are literally buying more than we are selling. We need to look at what we are buying - see if we can manufacture it here and whether it is profitable to sell it. We also need to make our supply chain tighter and more profitable - we have empty trucks travelling back and forth to Edmonton and the bush - let's make sure we have every truck loaded - Council needs to take the lead in making supply chain management a priority - that is how we help local business.

Kris Kinney: No response.

Charlene Marie Nelson: No response.

Bryan Petryshyn: Possible fee reduction, there isn't much the municipality is going to do about federal politics.

Mayor

1 To Be Elected

Kristopher James Arcand: Small businesses are the backbone of our city, and they deserve a city that helps them grow instead of slowing them down. That’s why I’ll use SMART goals to cut red tape and boost opportunity: Cut downtown vacancies by 20% in 2 years Launch a faster “Change of Use” permit within my first 6 months Expand digital tools to speed up licensing + reduce paperwork Support small businesses with grants and fee relief during tough times Ensure growth is inclusive — protecting vulnerable residents from displacement

Durque Babunga: No response.

Jackie Clayton: Supporting small business starts with listening. The most effective way to reduce red tape and unnecessary regulation is through proactive communication and direct collaboration with the people most affected — our local business owners, industry leaders, and organizations like the Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce. Council should: - Work side-by-side with the Chamber and business community to review City processes, identify pain points, and fast-track solutions that make it easier to open, operate, and expand a business in Grande Prairie. - We are an award winning City in red tape reduction, but we must continue to simplify permitting and licensing by streamlining application systems, reducing duplication, and improving transparency about timelines and requirements. - Create a “business-first” feedback loop, where entrepreneurs can bring forward ideas or challenges directly to Council and administration and see tangible changes as a result. - Communicate clearly and consistently, ensuring that new regulations or fee changes are pro-actively discussed with business stakeholders early in the process, not after decisions are made. Small business owners don’t need more bureaucracy, they need City Hall to be an active partner in their success. By listening first, communicating early, and collaborating often, we can build an even more responsive, efficient, and business-friendly city.

James Flack: Small businesses are the backbone of Grande Prairie’s economy, yet too often they’re buried in paperwork and delays instead of supported to grow. Council must take concrete steps to simplify processes, cut red tape, and put customer service back at the heart of City operations. As Mayor, I would launch a full review of permitting, inspection, and licensing timelines targeting faster approvals and a single-window access system so entrepreneurs aren’t bounced between departments. We should also freeze or reduce unnecessary fees for small operators, modernize digital filing tools, and expand local procurement policies so City contracts go first to local businesses. By focusing on service, transparency, and efficiency, we can turn City Hall into a genuine partner for business, one that empowers growth, supports jobs, and keeps Grande Prairie’s economy strong and independent.

Jason Jones: I will take the advice of the local Chamber of Commerce and engage CFIB to get good first steps of discussion and action to reduce red tape - to ensure we can aggressively grow our economy.

Kris Kinney: No response.

Charlene Marie Nelson: No response.

Bryan Petryshyn: Stop screwing over the little guy. When they redesigned the downtown roadway & sidewalks. That took 3 to 4 years. They cut off the consumer traffic to all those small businesses, without compensating the businesses.

Mayor

1 To Be Elected

Kristopher James Arcand: Yes, the City should commit to long-term goals like net zero by 2050, with clear milestones and public reporting. Climate action should be practical and connected to everyday priorities reducing costs, protecting residents, and building resilient infrastructure while balancing affordability, public safety, and core services. Where our current initiative falls short: No clear net-zero commitment in the publicly available Energy Strategy (or at least not explicit in what I found). The City has a goal of being carbon-neutral in operations by 2035, but that is only for city operations, not the whole community. Lack of detailed community-wide emissions reduction targets / roadmap for transportation, industry, buildings, etc. Few public interim / milestone targets that are visible (for community emissions, for non-operational emissions). Limited detail on monitoring and reporting: How often the City will report emissions, what metrics, how transparent. Not much info yet on commercial/industrial sector emissions, or large emitters measures (though CEIP helps residential). Little detail about electrification of fleets, renewable energy generation, or major infrastructure shifts. How we can do this with SMART goals Annual reporting on community-wide emissions Expanded support for retrofits and renewable energy Fleet electrification and greener transit options (which should be looked into more based off our client. Possible hybrid options?) Climate-resilient infrastructure, like wildfire protection and stormwater systems

Durque Babunga: No response.

Jackie Clayton: Climate action matters, but it must be balanced with affordability, infrastructure, and public safety priorities. I support practical, cost-effective measures such as improving energy efficiency in City facilities, expanding our urban tree canopy, and planning infrastructure for extreme weather. However, I would not commit to ambitious “net-zero” targets without clear, achievable plans and fiscal accountability. Our approach must be pragmatic, not performative.

James Flack: No, I don’t believe in adopting vague or politically driven targets like “net zero by 2050.” Municipal governments exist to serve their residents directly, not to chase federal or global agendas that often come with massive costs and little accountability. My priority is practical environmental stewardship, not ideology. That means improving local efficiency, managing waste responsibly, maintaining clean water systems, and investing in infrastructure that lasts. But our first responsibility must always be affordability, safety, and core infrastructure for residents. Grande Prairie needs leadership rooted in reality: we can protect our environment without burdening families, driving away investment, or compromising energy independence. Sustainable communities start with strong economies and responsible management, not slogans.

Jason Jones: I would like us to support any initiative that creates economic activity - I would like to see a Direct Air Capture unit and possibly a micro-reactor out at Wonder Valley - as well would like to have a HTC/HTL facility to process compost and plastic waste creating saleable, circular economy byproducts. As far as labeling it with 'net zero by 2050' - if it makes people fell better - I just think it makes good business sense - federal dollars committed to it - we need more dollars - makes sense to build out a few of these initiatives - get workers working - expand our tax base - lower our taxes by any means necessary.

Kris Kinney: No response.

Charlene Marie Nelson: No response.

Bryan Petryshyn: No, I don't. Anyone trying for net zero has their head in the clouds. We should drive towards the best we can. I'm not Captain Planet, but I recycle as much as I can. I salvage & re-use whenever possible. Priority for the council is probably around a 3 of 10.

Mayor

1 To Be Elected

Kristopher James Arcand: I do not believe in party politics in municipal elections. However, I am transparent in stating I did serve on Chris Warkentin's board of directors from 2016-2017 alongside Mayor Jackie Clayton. While I hold conservative values, I don’t believe in forcing my views on others. I also have family who work in public sector professions, so I understand the challenges that can come with how conservative governments operate. If I were to place myself on the political spectrum, I would consider myself a "realist." I have a dream that politics will one day come back and represent people and find solutions to issues. No more bickering on either side of the aisle, just people working together and striving for real solutions (or in my case SMART goals.) This is also why I wanted to run for municipal office: to better our community by listening to the residents.

Durque Babunga: No response.

Jackie Clayton: I believe municipal leadership should remain non-partisan and focused solely on what’s best for the people of Grande Prairie. My decisions are guided by collaboration, common sense, and community values not by party politics. I am guided by people, not a party. I represent every neighbourhood and every resident, and I'll continue to bring your voice to every table where Grande Prairie deserves to be heard.

James Flack: I’m running as an independent because I believe municipal leadership should answer to residents, not political parties. While I have supported the provincial UCP in the past and share many of their values around fiscal responsibility, personal freedom, and local control, my campaign is not tied to any party. My focus is on what’s best for Grande Prairie lowering taxes, improving infrastructure, addressing housing and food security, and restoring trust in City Hall. Political ideologies don’t pave roads, balance budgets, or feed families, people do. I’ll work with any government, regardless of party, when it benefits our community, and I’ll stand up to any of them when it doesn’t. My loyalty is to the residents of Grande Prairie, not to a political machine.

Jason Jones: I am a centrist, neither left nor right. I believe in social responsibility ensured through fiscal prudence. We have practical opportunities right here at home to prosper as a united community, if we can eject the divisiveness, ensure everyone is getting three healthy meals a day, has a roof over their head, children are mentored in practicality, seniors are honoured in their sunset and most importantly whoever can work has a job and whoever can't work is still encouraged to find purpose. The only way we stand - is united - a divided house will always fall - not on my watch - not Grande Prairie - we can do it together as one voice

Kris Kinney: No response.

Charlene Marie Nelson: No response.

Bryan Petryshyn: I have a conservative mindset for financial spending & budgeting. But there are aspects that I don't agree with & some I do. I think great decision-making considers both sides.