Information
“I want our city to remember this: Edmonton isn’t broken — it’s becoming. My platform isn’t about fixing what’s wrong, it’s about amplifying what’s already right, sparking joy, and reminding us that we’re capable of building a city so vibrant it feels like a miracle we get to live here. If you’re ready for leadership that believes in possibility, not limitation, then let’s do this together — because the future isn’t waiting, it’s already here.”
Asked questions
Question:
1) infill especially in mature neighborhoods.
2) post support for neighborhoods who've had a revitalization and it's breaking year after year and still not completed as promised in back alley ways. How will you fix it?
3) property taxes increase?
4) Edmonton transit
5) supporting the police force
Response:
1) Infill in mature neighborhoods
Infill development is already happening across Edmonton, and it’s important we do it thoughtfully. My focus is on balancing new growth with the character of existing neighborhoods, ensuring that design, green space, and infrastructure support both new and long-time residents. The foundation exists; my job is to make it work seamlessly for everyone.
2) Post-support for revitalized neighborhoods
I’ve seen the frustration when back lanes, sidewalks, or promised improvements take too long. The tools to complete these projects exist — my approach is to ensure city resources, timelines, and accountability measures are aligned so work is completed properly and maintained consistently. The improvements are already planned; we just need to activate them fully.
3) Property tax increases
Edmontonians deserve clarity and fairness in how taxes are set. My goal is to manage city budgets responsibly, ensure efficiency, and prioritize spending where it delivers real community benefit. Smart budgeting means we can achieve city priorities while minimizing unexpected tax increases.
4) Edmonton transit
Transit is a vital part of a thriving city. Modernization and service expansion are already in motion; my role is to ensure the projects stay on track, are funded responsibly, and meet the needs of residents. A city that moves efficiently helps everyone — people, businesses, and neighborhoods.
5) Supporting the police force
Supporting public safety means providing the police with the resources, training, and community connections they need to succeed. Programs that work are already in place; I will ensure they are fully supported and integrated with community safety initiatives so officers and residents both feel secure.
Question:
Where do you stand on Edmonton turning into a 15 minute. Where do you stand on putting license plates on bikes and electric scooters and lights on them so you can see them
15-minute city concept
The idea behind a “15-minute city” is to make neighborhoods more walkable, bikeable, and self-sufficient, with schools, shops, and services close by. Edmonton is already moving in that direction with improved transit, bike paths, and community planning. My focus is to make sure these efforts balance accessibility, convenience, and safety — so residents can get what they need within their neighborhood without losing the character and connectivity of our city.
Bikes, electric scooters, and visibility
Safety is critical. Equipment like lights and reflective gear is already recommended, and I support measures that make riders more visible to drivers and pedestrians. Licensing is a more complex question — I would ensure any regulations are practical, enforceable, and keep our streets safe without creating unnecessary barriers for active transportation.
Edmonton has the foundation — my role is to align safety, accessibility, and livability so everyone can move confidently, whether on foot, bike, scooter, or car.
Question:
Response:
Question:
Many Edmontonians feel they were never authentically engaged or consulted in the development of the City Plan, the district plans and policy, or the proposed priority growth areas.
Will you support City Council launching a review of the City Plan, district plans, and district policy under the auspices of a broadly-based public working group, including those from engaged mature neighbourhoods?
Is your campaign taking donations from developers?
Too many mature trees have been destroyed by developers to build infill. Since approximately 60% of Edmonton's trees are on private property, what would you do as a mayoral candidate to push for a private tree protection bylaw to protect mature trees as the city densifies?
Response:
City Plan & public engagement
I agree that Edmontonians deserve authentic consultation on city planning. The foundation for public participation already exists, but I will ensure that review processes are inclusive, transparent, and give residents from mature neighborhoods a meaningful voice. The city has the tools; my role is to make sure they are used effectively.
Campaign donations
My campaign does not accept donations. I believe in running a campaign that is independent and accountable to residents first.
Tree protection & infill
Mature trees are essential to the character and health of our neighborhoods. While 60% of trees are on private property, I support exploring a private tree protection bylaw that balances property rights with environmental stewardship. The groundwork exists; as mayor, I would ensure it is implemented thoughtfully to preserve our urban forest as the city grows.
Question:
Hello, I'm with CBC Radio's national climate solutions show and podcast, What On Earth.
I'm working on an episode of the show about Blatchford. I'm reaching out to the candidates running for mayor this fall, wondering if Vanessa Denman has a position on the development of this community?
Response:
Blatchford is an ambitious project transforming Edmonton's former City Centre Airport lands into a sustainable, carbon-neutral community. Plans to accommodate up to 30,000 residents are already in motion, with renewable energy, sustainable building practices, and integrated public transit in place. The framework exists — my role is to ensure it operates fully and benefits residents as intended.
As a mayoral candidate, I see the importance of balancing innovation with meaningful community engagement. While Blatchford's vision aligns with Edmonton's sustainability goals, it’s crucial that development proceeds transparently and inclusively. Opportunities for resident input already exist; my focus is to ensure they are fully activated so everyone’s voice is heard in shaping their neighborhoods.
Regarding the pace of development, the plan is already mapped out with infrastructure, amenities, and services prepared to support new communities. My role is to keep everything aligned so growth is smooth, practical, and sustainable — the pieces are ready; we just turn the dial.
“Edmonton is like a garden — we’re already planting the seeds; my role is to make sure there’s sunlight, water, and space to grow.”
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