The political landscape in Calgary has taken a significant turn as A Better Calgary confirms it will continue operating as an official political party following last month's groundbreaking municipal election.
Post-Election Strategy and Future Plans
A Better Calgary has announced it will hold an Annual General Meeting on February 21, 2026, where members will address critical organizational matters. The meeting will include elections for positions on the board of directors and potential changes to the party's bylaws and constitutional documents.
Those wishing to participate in the voting process must obtain valid membership by January 31, 2026. This structured approach demonstrates the party's commitment to maintaining formal political organization beyond the election cycle.
Historic Context: Calgary's First Party-Based Municipal Election
Last month's election marked a pivotal moment in Calgary's political history, representing the first time candidates could run as part of political parties in municipal elections. This change resulted from the Municipal Affairs Statutes Amendment Act, which came into effect in October 2024.
Prior to this legislative amendment, all municipal candidates were required to run as independents, creating a fundamentally different political dynamic in local government.
Election Results and Party Performance
Three political parties emerged during the election campaign period: A Better Calgary, the Calgary Party, and Communities First. While A Better Calgary and Communities First fielded multiple candidates, the election results showed mixed success for the new party system.
Only one of A Better Calgary's candidates achieved electoral victory - Mike Jamieson in Ward 12. The Calgary Party also secured one seat with Ward 4 Councillor DJ Kelly's successful campaign.
Communities First demonstrated the strongest performance among the new parties, electing four candidates to council positions: Kim Tyers (Ward 1), Andre Chabot (Ward 10), Rob Ward (Ward 11), and Dan McLean (Ward 14).
The remaining eight councillors, along with Mayor Jeromy Farkas, maintain no party affiliation, indicating that independent candidates still dominate Calgary's municipal government.
Uncertain Future for Municipal Parties
Despite A Better Calgary's commitment to continue as a political entity, questions remain about the long-term role of parties in Calgary's municipal politics. The provincial legislation that enabled party affiliations lacks clarity regarding ongoing party operations and the influence of unelected members.
Both the Calgary Party and Communities First have yet to announce their post-election plans, leaving A Better Calgary as the first to confirm its continued existence following the historic vote.
The development represents a significant shift in how municipal politics may function in Calgary moving forward, potentially introducing more structured political organizations to what has traditionally been a non-partisan system.
