Well Workers.

“The people and culture at The City of Calgary is the first input to be prioritized within our municipal corporation.”

- GUSTAFSON, Jaeger ✔️

C.P.S.

Areas of Priority

  • Safety, Health, and Wellness

  • Workforce Planning

  • Inclusion, Diversity, and Connections

  • Employee Relations, Labour Relations, and Total Compensation

  • Learning, Development, and Succession Planning

  • Organizational Change and Development

  • Innovation

Associations and Unions

Calgary is built on the strength, dedication, and professionalism of its workforce. Under Gustafson’s leadership, City Hall will work hand-in-hand with every union and association to ensure respect, stability, and fairness across the board. For ATU Local 583, that means reliable transit operations supported with proper investment in safety, schedules, and equipment. For the Calgary Police Association and the Senior Police Officers Association, it means ensuring officers have the resources, staffing, and trust they need to protect our communities.

For our civic workforce—CUPE Local 37 (outside workers), CUPE Local 38 (inside workers), CUPE Local 709, IBEW Local 254, UB Carpenters Local 2103, and the City of Calgary Society of Professional Engineers (CCSPE)—it means modern tools, fair agreements, and recognition that their hands-on work keeps the city moving and growing. For the leadership and professional groups—APTEA, the Municipal Employees Benefit Association of Calgary, the Senior Executive Association, and the Sr. Management Team Association—it means a balanced approach that values expertise, protects benefits, and fosters morale so decisions are grounded in both practicality and respect.

Together, these organizations represent the heart of Calgary’s services. Gustafson’s commitment is clear: respect neighbourhoods, respect workers, and build a city where morale, efficiency, and resilience go hand-in-hand.

  • Calgary’s transit system is the backbone of our city, and its strength depends on the men and women of ATU Local 583. Under Gustafson’s vision, transit workers will be supported with reliable equipment, safer working conditions, and schedules that respect both employees and riders. By investing in frontline operations and listening to the expertise of drivers, mechanics, and staff, we can deliver a transit system that is efficient, respected, and resilient. Together, we will build a service that not only moves people but also builds pride in Calgary’s public transportation.

  • The safety of our neighbourhoods depends on the dedication of Calgary’s frontline officers. The Calgary Police Association represents those who answer the call every day, often under difficult circumstances. Gustafson’s commitment is to ensure officers have the resources, staffing levels, and community trust they need to do their jobs effectively. That means clear laws, consistent enforcement, and strong support for the men and women who protect our families. Together, we will restore confidence in public safety and ensure that Calgary remains a city where every resident feels secure.

  • From clearing snow to maintaining parks, roads, and water systems, CUPE Local 37 members are the hands that keep Calgary running. Their work is visible in every neighbourhood, every season, and it deserves respect and recognition. Gustafson’s plan is to ensure outside workers have the tools, training, and support they need to deliver services efficiently and with pride. By valuing their expertise and investing in their capacity, we strengthen the backbone of city operations and build a Calgary that is cleaner, safer, and more resilient for all.

  • The members of CUPE Local 38 keep Calgary’s services moving behind the scenes. From administration and planning to customer service and program delivery, their work ensures the city runs smoothly every single day. Gustafson’s commitment is to support inside workers with modern systems, clear processes, and the respect they deserve for the critical role they play. By empowering CUPE 38 members to do their best work, we create a city where services are delivered faster, communication is clearer, and citizens feel truly supported.

  • CUPE Local 709 members are the stewards of knowledge and community learning in Calgary. From managing collections to delivering programs that inspire people of all ages, their work keeps our libraries vibrant, welcoming, and accessible. Gustafson’s vision is to ensure library workers have the resources, staffing, and respect they need to continue making libraries safe spaces for learning, connection, and growth. By investing in their work, we strengthen not only our public services but also the cultural and educational fabric of our city.

  • IBEW Local 254 members power Calgary—literally. From maintaining electrical systems to supporting transit power lines and utilities, their expertise keeps our city running safely and reliably. Gustafson’s plan is to back these workers with the resources, training, and investment needed to meet the demands of a growing and modern city. By respecting their skills and ensuring safe, well-supported workplaces, we not only keep the lights on—we build the resilient, future-ready infrastructure Calgary depends on.

  • APTEA members bring expertise, professionalism, and leadership to the heart of Calgary’s civic operations. Their work ensures that complex projects are managed, technical standards are met, and administrative systems function effectively for both staff and residents. Gustafson’s commitment is to support APTEA members with the respect, recognition, and tools they need to excel in their roles. By valuing their expertise and fostering collaboration, we create a city workforce that is innovative, efficient, and capable of delivering world-class services to Calgarians.

  • MEBAC ensures that City of Calgary employees and their families have access to the benefits, security, and support they deserve. This association plays a vital role in protecting the well-being of those who serve our city. Gustafson’s vision is to strengthen that foundation—ensuring benefits remain fair, sustainable, and responsive to the evolving needs of workers. By safeguarding health and financial security, we not only support employees but also boost morale and resilience across the entire workforce.

  • The Senior Executive Association represents leaders who guide Calgary’s civic operations with vision, accountability, and experience. Their role is vital in turning policy into action and ensuring that city services meet the highest standards. Gustafson’s commitment is to work in partnership with these executives, respecting their expertise while fostering a culture of transparency, collaboration, and innovation. By supporting senior leadership, we empower the entire workforce to deliver stronger outcomes for Calgarians and build a city that thrives on both stability and progress.

  • The Sr. Management Team Association represents the managers who bridge frontline services with executive decision-making. Their leadership ensures that city projects are delivered on time, budgets are respected, and teams are supported in their day-to-day work. Gustafson’s vision is to strengthen this vital link by empowering managers with clear direction, modern tools, and recognition for their role in driving performance. When managers are supported, the entire workforce becomes more effective, ensuring Calgarians see the benefits in reliable, high-quality services across every neighbourhood.

  • The Senior Police Officers Association represents the leadership within Calgary’s police service—those responsible for guiding strategy, mentoring frontline officers, and ensuring public safety is upheld with professionalism and integrity. Gustafson’s commitment is to work closely with these leaders to provide the resources, staffing balance, and clear policies needed for effective policing. By respecting their experience and strengthening their ability to lead, we ensure that Calgary’s communities are protected through both strong frontline service and steady, principled leadership.

  • The CCSPE represents the engineers whose technical expertise ensures Calgary’s infrastructure is safe, sustainable, and built to the highest standards. From roads and bridges to water systems and public facilities, their work shapes the foundation of our city. Gustafson’s vision is to elevate and support this critical expertise—providing the resources, collaboration, and respect engineers need to deliver innovative, future-ready solutions. By investing in engineering excellence, Calgary will be better prepared for growth, resilience, and the challenges of tomorrow.

  • UB Carpenters Local 2103 represents the skilled tradespeople who build, maintain, and repair the structures that keep Calgary strong. From public facilities to community infrastructure, their craftsmanship is essential to the city’s growth and resilience. Gustafson’s commitment is to respect and invest in these workers—ensuring safe worksites, fair agreements, and the resources needed to deliver high-quality results. By valuing the carpenters’ skill and dedication, we not only build better infrastructure but also reinforce Calgary’s reputation as a city built with pride and precision.

Policy

  • Gustafson’s 10 Considerations When Building Bylaws

    1. Worker Safety First – Every bylaw should protect those delivering city services.

    2. Neighbourhood Respect – Ensure policies strengthen, not violate, community identity.

    3. Clarity in Enforcement – Rules must be enforceable, consistent, and fair.

    4. Morale and Resilience – Regulations should build pride and motivation in the workforce.

    5. Service Impact – Ask how each bylaw improves the services Calgarians rely on.

    6. Economic Balance – Consider financial sustainability without burdening residents or workers.

    7. Transparency of Process – Drafting and enforcement must be open and easy to understand.

    8. Adaptability – Bylaws should evolve with changing needs, technology, and growth.

    9. Collaboration – Engage unions, associations, and communities in shaping policy.

    10. Generational Benefit – Ensure laws contribute to Calgary’s long-term prosperity, including the Calgary Wealth Fund.

  • GUSTAFSON’S 10 Principles of Administrative Policy

    1. Respect Human Dignity
    Every administrative decision must begin with respect for the individual. Workers and citizens alike must feel valued, heard, and protected.

    2. Clarity Before Complexity
    Policies must be written in clear, accessible language that prevents confusion. Complexity should never be used to hide intent or create barriers.

    3. Accountability With Fairness
    Accountability systems protect both the public and the worker. Fair policies ensure responsibility without scapegoating, balancing rights with obligations.

    4. Psychological Safety
    Every worker must feel secure in raising concerns, offering ideas, or reporting misconduct without fear of retaliation. This creates trust and better outcomes.

    5. Service With Purpose
    Administrative processes should always connect back to helping people—residents, communities, and workers—never bureaucracy for its own sake.

    6. Empowerment Over Micromanagement
    Policies must empower workers to act with confidence in their roles. Clear boundaries and trust foster motivation, pride, and better performance.

    7. Transparency Builds Trust
    Open systems and accessible information prevent corruption, reduce resentment, and build confidence in both leadership and frontline workers.

    8. Balance Efficiency and Care
    Efficiency matters, but never at the expense of well-being. Strong policies create balance: protecting workers while delivering excellent service to Calgarians.

    9. Continuous Learning and Adaptation
    Policies should not be static. They must adapt to new knowledge, technology, and community needs while protecting institutional memory.

    10. Long-Term Prosperity for All
    Administrative policies must look beyond today’s pressures and ensure future stability—supporting workers, strengthening communities, and building Calgary’s resilience for generations.

  • GUSTAFSON’S 10 RULES FOR COUNCIL

    1. Sit in a Circle Whenever Possible
    Council shall meet in a circle to emphasize equality, transparency, and shared responsibility. No member sits above another when serving Calgarians.

    2. No Blame, Only Accountability
    Blame is forbidden. Every issue must be approached with accountability, solutions, and lessons learned—never scapegoating.

    3. Every Voice Must Be Heard
    Each councillor is required to speak and present the needs of their community. Silence is not permitted in representation.

    4. Serve the Public, Not Politics
    Every decision must clearly demonstrate how it benefits Calgarians. Political gain cannot outweigh community good.

    5. Write Clearly, Decide Cleanly
    All bylaws, motions, and policies must be written in plain language and voted on with clarity, so that citizens and council alike know exactly what has been decided.

    6. Accountability with Measurable Outcomes
    Every policy must include a clear outcome, a timeline for review, and a named person responsible for delivering results.

    7. Respect is Mandatory
    Disrespect, personal attacks, and dismissiveness are prohibited. Councillors must model civility to protect trust in governance.

    8. Transparency is the Default
    Council business is open to the public except where lawfully restricted. Concealment must be justified and recorded in writing.

    9. Evidence Before Opinion
    All proposals must present evidence—facts, data, or community findings—before debate. Opinions may guide direction but must not replace proof.

    10. Build for Generations, Work Productively Today
    Council decisions must protect future prosperity while ensuring present productivity. Every hour spent in council must result in tangible progress for Calgary.