Edmonton's strategic direction for the next four years will be firmly centered on growing the local economy, according to Mayor Andrew Knack. In a year-end interview with Postmedia on Thursday, December 18, 2025, the mayor outlined his vision for a council with a narrowed, more effective focus.
A Strategic Shift Towards Economic Prosperity
Knack identified four key priority areas for the upcoming council term: safety, affordability, growth management, and critically, economic development. He stated plainly that this last pillar has been neglected and must now become a central mission. "Economic development has not been a focus of the city, it's time to make it a key focus," Knack emphasized.
The mayor plans to establish a clear strategic vision early in the new year, a task he says was not adequately completed in the previous term. This vision will directly inform the structuring of the city's four-year budget. Knack warned that without a concentrated effort, the municipality's budgetary challenges will persist. "That means there will be some tough conversations," he acknowledged, noting that focusing on core priorities inherently means deprioritizing other areas.
Streamlining Business and Chasing Big Opportunities
On a practical level, Knack wants to see Edmonton become a national leader for business permits, mirroring its current top ranking for homebuilding permits. He stressed that "time is money" and the city must accelerate the process for businesses to move from concept to cash flow. The mayor also hinted at exploring potential tax incentives to attract new enterprises.
The interview revealed several significant economic opportunities on the horizon. The most substantial is the potential for the Royal Canadian Air Force to establish a new western CC-330 Husky base on land near the Edmonton International Airport. Knack vowed to prioritize landing this project, which he estimates could be worth "hundreds of billions of dollars" for the local economy. He cited Edmonton's strong military history and available land as key advantages.
Building on Existing Strengths and Tourism
Knack also aims to build upon the work of the city's economic development agencies, like Explore Edmonton, to promote the city's strengths internationally. He pointed to the success of hosting the national youth volleyball championships, which injected over $40 million into the economy, as a model for future events. The mayor sees major sporting championships and other large-scale events as consistent economic boosters for the community.
In summary, Mayor Andrew Knack's message is one of disciplined focus. By centering the council's work on economic development, streamlining processes for business, and aggressively pursuing transformative projects, he believes Edmonton can build a more prosperous and resilient future for the next four years and beyond.
