Edmonton’s political landscape saw a significant development today as Ward O-day’min Councillor Anne Stevenson confirmed she will seek a second term on city council in the 2025 municipal election.
The first-term councillor made the announcement during an informal gathering at a local community center in her downtown ward, where supporters and community members gathered to hear her plans for the future.
“Serving the diverse communities of O-day’min has been the privilege of my life,” Stevenson told the crowd of about 60 attendees. “While we’ve made progress on addressing homelessness, improving community safety, and creating more vibrant public spaces, there’s still considerable work ahead that I’m committed to seeing through.”
Stevenson, who was first elected in 2021, has built a reputation as a thoughtful voice on council, often advocating for evidence-based approaches to urban planning and social issues. Her background in urban planning and affordable housing has informed many of her policy positions during her first term.
Ward O-day’min, which includes Edmonton’s downtown core and surrounding neighborhoods, faces unique challenges including homelessness, public safety concerns, and balancing development with community needs.
“The complexity of issues in our ward requires consistent, informed leadership,” said Maria Gonzalez, executive director of the Downtown Community League, who attended the announcement. “Anne has shown she understands both the technical aspects of urban governance and the human element that must guide decision-making.”
During her remarks, Stevenson highlighted several accomplishments from her first term, including her work on council’s initiative to reform public engagement processes and her advocacy for the downtown vibrancy strategy.
“I’ve always believed that good governance comes from listening first,” Stevenson noted. “Some of our best solutions have emerged from conversations with community members who experience these issues firsthand.”
The announcement comes relatively early in the election cycle, with Edmonton’s next municipal vote scheduled for October 2025. When asked about the timing, Stevenson explained that she wanted to be transparent with constituents about her intentions.
“People deserve to know their representative is committed for the long haul,” she said. “The challenges we face aren’t going to be solved in a single term, and I want to continue building on the foundation we’ve established.”
Several current city councillors were present at the event, including Councillors Ashley Salvador and Keren Tang, suggesting Stevenson has built strong working relationships within council chambers.
“Anne brings a methodical, collaborative approach to complex issues,” Councillor Tang told me after the announcement. “Her professional background gives her a unique perspective that’s valuable on council.”
Not everyone in attendance was a confirmed supporter. Local business owner James Wilson said he came to hear Stevenson’s vision before deciding who will get his vote next year.
“Downtown businesses have struggled with the perception of safety issues,” Wilson said. “I’m interested in hearing concrete plans for addressing these concerns while maintaining compassion for vulnerable populations.”
Stevenson addressed these tensions directly in her speech, acknowledging the competing priorities that often characterize urban governance.
“There are no easy solutions to the challenges we face,” she admitted. “But I believe in Edmonton’s ability to be both compassionate and pragmatic, to support those in need while creating vibrant, safe neighborhoods for everyone.”
The councillor outlined several priorities for a potential second term, including continued work on housing affordability, climate resilience, and economic development that benefits communities throughout the ward.
According to the City of Edmonton’s website, Stevenson currently serves on several council committees, including Urban Planning and Community Services. She has championed initiatives related to Downtown vibrancy, housing affordability, and community safety during her tenure.
The early announcement also gives Stevenson a head start on campaign organizing and fundraising, though she declined to discuss specific campaign strategies when asked.
As I observed the diverse crowd at the announcement – a mix of community advocates, business representatives, and everyday residents – it struck me how Stevenson’s approach seems to reflect the complex tapestry of the ward itself. Downtown Edmonton contains both
