Photo supplied by the candidate.

By Curtis Galbraith

Municipal Election

Candidate profile: James Flack

Sep 22, 2025 | 5:14 PM

James Flack is one of the candidates running to be mayor of Grande Prairie in the October 20 election.

What has inspired you to run for mayor in the Oct. 20, 2025, municipal election?

I am running for mayor because I believe Grande Prairie is at a turning point. Too many residents feel disconnected from the decisions being made at City Hall, and too many local voices are being ignored. I’ve seen firsthand the struggles of families, small businesses, seniors, and young people in our community. What inspired me most was the conversations I’ve had walking around the city every day, with bus riders, food truck operators, parents, and seniors. People want honesty, accountability, and leadership that puts the people of Grande Prairie first. That’s why I decided to step forward.

What skills or experience do you have that you feel would make you a good fit for the role?

I bring a combination of grassroots experience and practical knowledge. I’ve spent years digging into city budgets, bylaws, and local governance, asking the tough questions that others avoid. I’ve also built connections across different parts of the community, from seniors to youth to small business owners, and I pride myself on listening before speaking. What sets me apart is that I’m not part of the political establishment. I know what it means to start from scratch, to rebuild, and to persevere. That perspective makes me relatable to everyday residents, while my research and advocacy skills give me the tools to navigate City Hall effectively

What do you feel are the key or main election issues in your community and what are the issues of priority for you?

For me, three issues stand out:

Transparency and accountability: Too many decisions are made behind closed doors. Residents deserve clear answers on where their money is going and why.

Economic growth and opportunity: Grande Prairie has enormous potential. I want to see more support for local entrepreneurs, small businesses, and graduates who want to stay here and build their future. We can do this through targeted grants, partnerships, and reducing red tape.

Community safety and services: From homelessness and addiction to public safety and infrastructure, we need solutions that are both compassionate and effective. I believe in investing in people, not just programs, and creating pathways from shelter to sovereignty so that everyone has a fair chance to succeed.

Where can people learn more about you?

The best way to learn more about me is directly from me. I spend much of my time in the community, on our buses, at local events, and walking the neighborhoods. You can also connect with me online through my campaign group on Facebook and other platforms where I regularly post updates and answer questions. My campaign is built on accessibility, so I encourage anyone to reach out, start a conversation, and share their ideas for Grande Prairie’s future.