Will you work with the Indigenous led, Indigenous Gathering Place Board to advance the creation of an indigenous led, indigenous gathering place in Calgary? How will you work to advance this and overcome the current roadblocks that have delayed this project?
Kourtney Penner
Yes
Kourtney noted that Council has recently met with the Indigenous Gathering Place Society and other groups and affirmed that Council is dedicated to advancing this project. She emphasized the importance of focused commitment and continuity from all groups involved, along with stable funding, in order to move forward. She acknowledged that while progress is being made, the visions of the different groups must be realistic and sustainable in the long term. She noted that this cannot be a City-funded project alone, particularly when it comes to operational costs. Kourtney also highlighted that Council now annually reviews the White Goose Flying report as a way of tracking progress on Truth and Reconciliation commitments.
Rob Ward
Survey Response:
Yes
I believe in reconciliation, and I respect the calls for an Indigenous-led gathering place in Calgary. If there is a clear request from Treaty 7 Elders and elected Chiefs, I would absolutely work with them on a path forward. Their voice must be at the center of this conversation—not third-party groups speaking on their behalf.
As a Councillor, my role would be to:
- Listen directly to Treaty 7 leadership to understand their vision and priorities.
- Ensure any City involvement is fiscally responsible and does not duplicate existing programs or facilities.
- Work with other levels of government to identify appropriate land or funding partnerships, recognizing that reconciliation is a shared responsibility.
I believe projects of this significance must be led by Indigenous voices and supported by respectful collaboration—not rushed promises without a plan or clear direction.
Alex William
Yes
Alex will listen and be supportive of the gathering place. He will make sure the land is purchased, and the project is completed.
• He will change bylaws regarding smudging and other indigenous practices that are presently do not abide by city smoking bylaws.
• He stated that The City of Calgary is risk averse.
• He shared that he is a serious decision maker and will advance the project through education and communication.
• He will change and introduce bylaws so that this project proceeds and will research what funding has been earmarked for the project or ensure funding will
be available.