Sohi, Nickel consider running for mayor
Long-standing Edmonton politician Amarjeet Sohi is mulling a run for the mayor's chair.
The former Liberal natural resources minister and city councillor told Postmedia Wednesday he had been approached about running and had not ruled it out either way.
“If I were to run for mayor, and for me to seek the confidence of Edmontonians, I would have to understand what are they looking for in their new leader and what kind of ... values that they aspire to,” he said.
“I will spend more time engaging with Edmontonians to understand that before I make my decision, but I haven't started with that process, either. So at this time, I don't really know if I'm going to do it or not.”
Sohi said he is still dealing with a loss in the family and had not given serious thought yet as to what his plans will be.
Coun. Mike Nickel also appears to be making a run for mayor but has not formally announced a bid.
Nickel's website temporarily said Tuesday evening he was running for mayor. A password-protected page that could only be accessed on the mobile website, said “I'm running to be your mayor. Together, we will recover and prosper. That is my great hope for Edmonton.”
The statement, which appeared with his photo at the top of his website, said families and businesses are struggling and city hall has neglected its responsibilities to communities.
“We need a city that provides value for everyone, not just the special interest groups. It's your turn to get ahead!”
Nickel has since created a Facebook event saying he will make an announcement Friday and his website no longer states he is running for mayor.
He did not respond to multiple requests for comment.
Meantime, public school trustee Michael Janz may be seeking a position on council as well but has not confirmed his plans.
YEG Muslim Vote posted a “meet the candidate” event on Facebook showing Janz was running in Ward Papastew but it has since been removed.
Janz said Wednesday the event was a misunderstanding.
“I've still got 10 months left in my trustee term. It would be premature to make any announcements yet! Lots happening in my family (new baby August) and talking to supporters about where I can help make the most positive impact,” he wrote.
Mayor Don Iveson has said he will not be seeking re-election this fall.
Councillors Tim Cartmell and Sarah Hamilton have both announced they would be running for re-election in their respective wards.
The civic election is Oct. 18.