Edmonton, AB – October 20, 2025

Residents of Ward Papastew head to the polls today as part of Edmonton’s 2025 municipal election, joining voters citywide in choosing a new mayor, 12 councillors, and school trustees. This race has drawn attention as one of the most closely watched in the city, reflecting bigger debates around affordability, urban density, transit, and governance.

About the Ward

Ward Papastew (pronounced PAH-PAH-STAY-OH) is named after Chief Papastew, a respected leader of the Papaschase Band #136. The ward covers several of Edmonton’s most vibrant and historic communities, including Garneau, Queen Alexandra, Strathcona, Allendale, Ritchie, Belgravia, and parts of Pleasantview.

With its proximity to the University of Alberta, Whyte Avenue, and the North Saskatchewan River valley, Papastew represents a mix of long-time homeowners, students, professionals, families, and seniors. It’s also a ward where community leagues, neighbourhood associations, and advocacy groups play a powerful role in shaping civic conversations.

Key Issues for Voters

Residents of Papastew face some of the most complex urban challenges in Edmonton. Among the top priorities for voters:

• Housing & Affordability: Rising housing costs, infill development, and the need for diverse housing options have become central issues.

• Transit & Active Transportation: With a large population of students and commuters, reliable transit service, safe bike infrastructure, and pedestrian connectivity are highly valued.

• Growth & Heritage: Balancing urban density with the preservation of historic neighbourhood character is a point of ongoing debate.

• Public Safety & Community Well-being: Discussions around community safety, public spaces, and local support services continue to be prominent.

• Municipal Governance: With new provincial rules allowing political slates in municipal elections, governance and local representation are also under close watch.

 Candidates for City Councillor

Several candidates are vying to represent Papastew on City Council. As of nomination close, the official list includes:

Ward Papastew – Candidates:

• • Michael Janz (incumbent)

    Rozalia Janiszewska

  • Joshua Doyle (Better Edmonton)
  • Terrie Holgerson

  • James Cameron

  • Mark Hillman

The race is expected to be competitive. Candidates have focused on issues such as affordability, responsible urban planning, stronger infrastructure investment, and community safety. Voters will have to weigh competing visions for how Edmonton’s central-south communities should grow and change over the next four years.

 Election Day Details

• Election Day: Monday, October 20, 2025

• Voting Hours: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.

• What You Need: Government-issued ID showing name and address

• Where to Vote: Find your polling station at edmonton.ca/election

Advance voting ran from October 10–17, and special ballots were available for eligible voters who could not attend in person.

What’s at Stake

Ward Papastew is a bellwether for Edmonton’s urban future. It sits at the intersection of housing, infrastructure, and climate discussions, with decisions here likely to influence broader policy directions at City Hall.

With its active electorate, engaged neighbourhoods, and competing priorities, this ward’s outcome will be closely watched as a signal of where Edmontonians stand on the city’s growth, affordability, and governance debates.