Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek running for re-election in 2025

Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek has announced she is running for mayoral re-election in 2025.

She said Friday she wants to end speculation on the future of her career as mayor and stay focused on the business of leading Calgary.

A campaign team will be created in the in the new year, Gondek adds.

She says her re-election campaign will highlight her record of proactive leadership, and her vision for a city that has “unparalleled” opportunities for residents, and gives them the services they need.

Gondek was elected the 37th mayor of Calgary in October 2021, becoming the first female mayor in the city’s history. Prior to that, she served as councillor for Ward 3 from 2017 to 2021.

Citizen polls have shown mixed support for Gondek throughout her term.

A ThinkHQ poll from December 2023 saw historically low approval ratings for Gondek and council — 61 per cent said they disapproved of her performance, while 43 per cent said they strongly disapproved.

She has faced substantial criticism during her term for various issues, including the failure of the first Event Centre deal, her refusal to attend a December 2023 Hanukkah menorah lighting ceremony amid the Israel-Hamas war, the single-use items bylaw, blanket rezoning, and the Bearspaw Feedermain break.

In January, Calgary business owner Landon Johnston filed a recall petition against the mayor, explaining he was frustrated with property tax increases, the single-use items bylaw, and the cancellation of fireworks on Canada Day.

His effort was unsuccessful, garnering signatures from just 5.39 per cent of city’s population, well below the required 40 per cent threshold.

Gondek admits the last three years haven’t been all smooth sailing.

“Like anyone in a new job, I have experienced challenges and there were things I needed to learn,” she said. “I’ve learned many lessons, and I’m prepared to tackle the important work that needs to be done, including improving communication between City Hall and Calgarians, supporting those who need it most, cutting unnecessary red tape, and empowering business owners to do what they do best—drive innovation and strengthen our economy.”

Alberta’s next municipal election is scheduled for Oct. 20, 2025.

Former councillor and 2021 mayoral candidate Jeff Davison has also announced his intent to run for the city’s top job. He came third behind Gondek and current Glenbow Ranch Park Foundation CEO, Jeromy Farkas, in the 2021 race.

Farkas hasn’t ruled out making another bid for mayor. He served one term as councillor from 2017 to 2021 at the same time as Gondek and Davison.

More to come.