FAQs

What are the benefits of supporting Communities First?

Many candidates talk about fixing City Hall, but one or two voices aren’t enough to make real change. Communities First brings together a group of like-minded future councillors and a mayoral candidate who will work together to ensure meaningful progress on key issues like affordability, safety, and city services.

Unlike the majority of the current Council, we believe in engaging with citizens rather than imposing decisions on them. We listen first and then take action.

By electing a group of future councillors and a mayor who are aligned on key priorities, you’ll see a City Hall that is more responsive, more accountable, and more focused on what truly matters to Calgarians.

Why have you formed a political party?

Municipal politics is changing. In Calgary, we have recently seen new parties form with an alignment on the far left and one on the far right. Calgary needs a better option; one focused on balance, accountability, and real solutions for our city.

The past four years at City Hall have functioned like there was already a political party in power. Calgarians were not aware of the ideological alignment of these Council members during the election process, with their agenda not on the table to be properly considered. The majority of this Council has consistently pushed through decisions without meaningful engagement, leaving Calgarians frustrated and unheard. Communities First was created to change that.

Why Communities First? How is it different from provincial or federal parties?

The core principle of Communities First is independent representation. Every councillor must be free to represent their constituents, first and foremost. Unlike traditional political parties, our candidates are not bound by party discipline and not obligated to vote a certain way. Instead, they share a commitment to key priorities while maintaining the flexibility to advocate for the unique needs of their wards.

What do Communities First candidates align on?

Our candidates share a common vision for Calgary’s future. We believe in:

• • True representation: listening to and engaging with citizens, not ruling over them.

• • Keeping taxes and fees affordable while ensuring a transparent and understandable budgeting process.

• • Effective oversight of City Administration to improve accountability and service delivery.

• • Focusing on municipal priorities like infrastructure, protective services, and economic growth.

• • Strategically investing in capital projects that enhance resilience and growth, while ensuring administration is accountable for timely and efficient delivery of these projects.

• • Supporting transit and addressing social disorder to improve safety and accessibility.

• • Encouraging responsible redevelopment that respects community character.

• • Ensuring new suburban communities are financially viable and transparently planned.

• • Maintaining a respectful relationship with the provincial and federal governments, no matter who is in power, while always advocating for Calgary’s best interests.

More detailed policy announcements will be released over the next few months.

Will Communities First candidates vote the same way on every issue?

No. Unlike traditional political parties, Communities First candidates will always represent their communities first. While we share common priorities, councillors will vote based on what’s best for their constituents.

Are you associated with any provincial or federal parties?

No. Our focus is entirely municipal. Calgary needs local solutions, not provincial or federal parties interfering in City Hall.

Who leads the Communities First party?

Communities First is led entirely by the party candidates. Different from provincial or federal political parties that have a separate executive leadership directing party decisions, the candidates themselves agree to set policies and priorities.

How is Communities First funded?

Communities First is supported entirely by individual Calgarians and corporations who believe in our common vision.

How can I support Communities First?

• • Attend our events to help support our candidates.

• • Donate to Communities First to support our candidates to ensure they have the resources to run strong campaigns.

• • Spread the word! Talk about us with your friends, family, and neighbours.

• • Vote for Communities First candidates in the municipal election to bring real change to City Hall.