A Calgary city councillor has set his sights on a higher level of government. Ward 13 Coun. Dan McLean announced Friday that he would be seeking the United Conservative Party (UCP) nomination for Calgary-Shaw in the next provincial election. The riding was left open after MLA Rebecca Schulz decided to step down last year but agreed to stay in the UCP caucus until the spring. McLean’s decision to represent the riding comes after a long time living in the community. “Southwest Calgary is where I raised my family, built my business, and have been honoured to serve at city hall as the city councillor for Ward 13,” he said in a statement. “I believe the time is right to continue serving—this time at the provincial level.” McLean says he is proud to support Premier Danielle Smith and calls the next provincial election “a critical one” for Alberta. “We cannot afford to go backwards. I believe my experience and proven track record will be an asset to the UCP team as we work to keep Alberta moving forward,” he said. According to Elections Alberta, the next provincial general election is scheduled for Oct. 18, 2027.