Heather Spearman, Mayor
What are you most excited for now that you are elected as Airdrie’s new Mayor?
I’m mostly excited to get to work alongside our new council and community to deliver real, tangible progress! The people of Airdrie have trusted us with an incredible responsibility to protect what makes our city special while addressing the pressures that come with our accelerated growth. We’ve got a lot of good things going, so let’s build on that to take our city into its next chapter. There are challenges, but there’s so much opportunity ahead, and I’m eager to roll up my sleeves and get started with my new council colleagues!
What is your vision for Airdrie during your 2025-2029 term?
My vision is for Airdrie to grow with intention. That means investing in infrastructure, building a stronger local economy, and ensuring families and seniors can access the services they need close to home. It’s also about building partnerships with other levels of government so we can sustainably deliver on priorities like health care and education, which aren’t City responsibilities, but areas where we can work to drive action. I just want Airdrie to feel like a city that works for everyone.
Airdrie has a strong sense of community. As mayor, how will you lead in maintaining that small-town spirit while managing big-city growth?
For me, it’s about staying connected, being visible in the community, listening first, and making sure residents feel informed and involved. Growth is inevitable, but how we grow is a choice. If we keep people at the heart of every decision, Airdrie can grow without losing its warmth and connection.
What’s your favourite local spot in the city — whether it’s a park, coffee shop or hidden gem — and why?
That’s a tough one! I’m a huge fan of small business, so my favourite is really anything owned by a local, where you can feel the love they have for what they do. Whether it’s a local craft brewery like Atlas, Balzac or 948, or a delightful cup of coffee from Ground Press, or a Macaron from La Table Haute… there are so many gems! Special shoutout, of course, to any organizations that create opportunities for kids and youth. I’d love to see these businesses thrive long term.
Meet your six city councillors
We asked each of them two questions:
1) What are you most excited for now that you are elected as a member of Airdrie’s City Council?
2) What is your vision for Airdrie during your 2025-2029 term?
Ron Chapman, Councillor
Most excited for: I’m excited to get to work with a new council, with four new members the dynamics has changed dramatically, and I look forward to the challenge.
My vision: Vision for the next four years is to make sure we keep up with growth and look forward to getting shovels in the ground for the SW Rec Centre.
Chris Glass, Councillor
Most excited for: I’m excited to put my words into action. On the campaign trail, I promised to keep my focus on affordability and accessibility by adjusting the way we approach major infrastructure projects, community development and the way residents interact with the City. I’m not only acting a conduit towards these promises, but also learning the dynamics of our new council and how to effectively work together. My hope is that we can collectively align our platforms with what our city needs, and fulfil some of the promises that we’ve made to holistically support those needs — as a cohesive team.
My vision: My long-term vision is to make Airdrie one of the most livable cities in Canada, but that kind of vision takes years of preparation. The incremental changes I hope to see is based on positioning Airdrie as proactive and responsive to the needs of our residents by bridging the gap between the City and the people it serves. I hope to see a growth in health-care resources, sports and event tourism, and the birth of more businesses that can thrive here. But, most of all, my vision is for our new council to work harmoniously to achieve goals bigger than ourselves, and make Airdrie a place that feels like home.
Candice Kolson, Councillor
Most excited for: Being elected for a fourth term was something I wasn’t sure I could ask of Airdrie, and I am honoured they chose to elect me again (Thank you, Airdrie!). Now that I know my decisions are on track with some of the needs/wants of the community, I look forward to continuing my upfront and honest approach to leadership in the city. I am really looking forward to the different personalities and ideas of a new council, as well.
My vision: We need to get the second rec facility going. Making sure we can plan a build that is on budget, on time and fits the needs of the majority of residents at all age demographics is important. I would also love to see a solid plan for another grade separation over the railroad tracks — Veterans Boulevard is starting to experience the same issues we had on Yankee [Valley Boulevard] before 40th [Avenue] was opened.
Simisola Obasan, Councillor
Most excited for: I’m deeply humbled and energized by the trust Airdrie residents have placed in me. What excites me most is the chance to bring a fresh, community-focused voice to the table, one that bridges people, perspectives and possibilities. I’m eager to roll up my sleeves and get to work on practical initiatives that make daily life in Airdrie safer, more connected and more inclusive.
My vision: My vision for Airdrie is rooted in care, courage and collaboration. I see a city that grows safely, smartly and sustainably. Over this term, I will advocate for a safer Airdrie: investing in community safety programs, youth and senior engagement, and mental health supports that strengthen the fabric of our city. At the same time, I’m passionate about shaping Airdrie’s future through better transportation networks, more affordable mixed-use-density housing options, and spaces that encourage business innovation and cultural connection. My goal is for every resident, whether they’ve been here for decades or just arrived, to feel proud to call Airdrie home. This isn’t just policy work for me, it’s personal. Airdrie is where my family is growing, where I serve, and where I want to build a legacy of safety, opportunity and togetherness for the next generation.
Kristen Shima, Councillor
Most excited for: As an elected member of Airdrie City Council, I am most excited to empower our community and build resiliency by applying my background in community development, city building and neighbourhood planning. I aim to integrate this experience into policies, strategies, programs and systems that strengthen Airdrie’s economic, social, cultural and environmental well-being.
My vision: During my platform, I had a vision statement for Airdrie: “To be an advocate and ally for Airdrie, as a transformative leader, and empower our community in becoming catalysts for change — leading solutions that build resilience, foster prosperity, and create a strong sense of belonging to enhance quality of life for all through community connection.”
Chad Stewart, Councillor
Most excited for: I’m most excited to roll up my sleeves and get to work — collaborating with council, administration and residents to keep building Airdrie into an even better place to live, work and play.
My vision: My vision for Airdrie is clear: by 2029, I want residents to see real, tangible results — smarter revenue generation, well-planned infrastructure that meets our growing needs, and a thriving arts, culture and recreation scene that reflects the heart of our community.
