June 23, 2026
City Councillor Budget Roundtables: Edmonton Business Leaders Talk Budget Priorities with City Council
The Edmonton Chamber of Commerce recently hosted Councillor Reed Clarke (Ward Nakota Isga) and Councillor Keren Tang (Ward Karhiio) for a candid conversation with Edmonton business leaders. This is first session in a new summer-long series designed to give Council direct input from the business community ahead of the City's next budget. These sessions are open to Chamber members only, you can sign up for future sessions here.
This discussion focused on municipal red tape reduction, the City’s new revamped Economic Action Plan, and the upcoming municipal budget. Here are the key takeaways.
Cutting red tape, without losing what's already working
Business leaders welcomed progress on "Taking Care of Business" the City's Red Tape Reduction initiative. Businesses noted the faster permit and approval timelines as welcome improvements. At the same time, they pushed for clearer communication about the supports already available to businesses today.
Turning strategy into results Edmontonians can see
On the City's Economic Action Plan, the message was clear: a good strategy only matters if it's felt on the ground. Business leaders called for simpler, coordinated grant programs instead of a patchwork of smaller ones, along with renewed investment in beautification and public spaces, changes they see as directly tied to attracting investment, supporting local business, and making Edmonton a better place to live.
What business wants the City to stand firm on
When asked what the City should be unapologetic about heading into budget season, participants pointed to better signage and financial support for businesses affected by construction, a sharper focus on core city services, and a stronger deal for Edmonton on shared tax revenue to keep the city competitive. Councillor Clarke and Councillor Tang, in turn, emphasized the importance of basic infrastructure and road access, creating the right conditions for business growth, and ensuring strong returns on every dollar the City invests.
Stay engaged
Chamber members gain direct access to the discussions that matter most to Edmonton’s business community. Become a member and stay connected to what’s next.
Have input on municipal priorities or budget decisions? Sign up for a future session here: City Councillor Budget Engagement Series - Edmonton Chamber of Commerce
