Calgarians Deserve Transparency

Earlier this week, the C.D. Howe Institute released its annual report grading Canadian cities on budget transparency, and Calgary received a D+. That’s a failing grade. Worse still, this is a step backward from last year’s already concerning C+, and it puts us behind other major cities like Edmonton, Vancouver, and Winnipeg.

This isn’t just about one report card. This is a pattern of secrecy and disconnect between City Hall and the people they are meant to serve. As a lifelong Calgarian and someone who has worked in both public service and private leadership, I believe this is unacceptable.

Transparency starts with the Council Chamber. When decisions are made behind closed doors, without public input or accountability, trust erodes. In-camera meetings have become far too common, and the consequences are real. Whether it’s major infrastructure projects, controversial rezonings, or how your tax dollars are spent, too much is being decided in secret.

That needs to change.

As your next Mayor, I’m making a clear commitment: no more in-camera meetings.

I will restore transparency by making council discussions public and accessible, ensuring that Calgarians are part of the conversation, not left on the outside looking in.

You work hard for your money. You deserve to know exactly how it’s being spent, and what decisions are being made on your behalf.

We need leadership that doesn’t just talk about transparency, but lives it. We need leadership that respects taxpayers, communicates effectively, and rebuilds trust with every Calgarian.

That’s the kind of leadership I’m offering. It’s time to fix the culture at City Hall.