‘A bittersweet time’: Red Deer mayor talks retirement, upcoming election

Red Deer mayor, Ken Johnston (CTV News Edmonton)

After 12 years of serving on Red Deer’s council, Ken Johnston’s career at city hall is nearly over.

Johnston, who’s now in his 70s, first ran for a seat on Red Deer city council in 2013.

He ran for re-election in the 2017 municipal election before running for the top job as mayor in 2021, where he was elected.

Now four years later, Johnston’s name will not be on the ballot after he announced his retirement in January, but he says he is at peace with his decision.

“It’s a bittersweet time. I have lots of great memories, so many friends from across the community, but peace still exists in my heart,” Johnston told CTV News Edmonton.

• The information you need to know, sent directly to you: Download the CTV News App

Five names will be on the ballot when voters take to the polls on Oct. 20: Victor Doerksen, John Gallagher, Cindy Jefferies, Lawrence Lee and Gareth Scott.

In a written letter for the new mayor, Johnston gave some advice.

“You’re not the mayor of a fragment of the community; always remember that you’re the mayor of the entire community,” said Johnston. “Everything you say and do is measured across the length and breadth of the community.”

When asked what his legacy will be, he hopes he’s remembered as a community mayor.

“I hope I’m remembered as the mayor that formed cohesion and a far more common vision for our community,” said Johnston.

Voters will choose Red Deer’s new mayor on Monday.