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Funke Olokude

Funke Olokude

Candidate for councillor in Ipiihkoohkanipiaohtsi



Mixed

Which would you prioritize in your role during the budget process?

Olokude

Advocate for the priorities of the people you represent.

Candidate comments: “I'll prioritize advocating for the real priorities of the people I represent, making sure their voices are heard in the budget process. Transparency is key. I'll bring the community to the decision table and work to ensure funds support what matters most to Ward Ipiihkoohkanipiaohtsi residents.”
Mixed

Which of the following comes closest to your view of the most important function of a councillor?

Olokude

Visionary leader.

Candidate comments: “Edmonton needs bold leadership to tackle big challenges and build a better future for all. I'm ready to bring fresh ideas and strong commitment to create lasting change in Ward Ipiihkoohkanipiaohtsi and beyond.”
Mixed

Which would you prioritize regarding property taxes?

Olokude

I don't have a position on this issue



Mixed

Which of the following comes closest to your view on 15-minute districts?

Olokude

Intervene to incentivize more mixed-use development and local services.

Candidate comments: “I support Edmonton's City Plan and bringing homes, jobs, and services closer together. I'll push for policies that incentivize mixed-use development and vibrant local businesses, creating walkable, connected communities where people can meet daily needs without long trips. Let's build stronger, healthier neighbourhoods for everyone.”
Mixed

Which of the following comes closest to your approach to development outside Anthony Henday Drive?

Olokude

Set a firm growth boundary.

Candidate comments: “We must focus on smart, sustainable growth. Edmonton has plenty of under-utilized land inside the city that we must develop efficiently, building complete, vibrant communities without sprawl. This approach respects our future and maximizes existing resources.”
Mixed

Which of the following comes closest to how you would guide infill development?

Olokude

Proceed as allowed under existing rules.

Candidate comments: “I support proceeding with infill development under existing rules to meet our urgent housing needs. As a housing champion, I know we must build more diverse, affordable, culturally appropriate options in every neighbourhood. Infill helps create vibrant, connected communities and addresses our growing demand for homes right where people want to live.”


Mixed

Which of the following comes closest to how you would incorporate climate change into decision-making?

Olokude

The climate crisis must be a consideration in every single decision.

Candidate comments: “As a mother of two, I'm deeply committed to building a better, healthier future for our kids. Every decision we make must consider the climate crisis, from housing to transit to infrastructure. And I've done it, with my work on the city's affordable housing strategy and transit safety initiatives. Smart, sustainable planning today means a livable, thriving Edmonton tomorrow.”
Mixed

Which of the following comes closest to how you would approach parking in commercial areas?

Olokude

Reduce parking and reallocate land to other uses.

Candidate comments: “We need to rethink how we use space. Reducing excess parking in commercial areas can free up land for things our communities truly need, like housing, green space, and small businesses. Let's build a city that puts people first and creates more vibrant, livable neighbourhoods.”
Mixed

Which would you prioritize for downtown revitalization funds?

Olokude

Grow the residential population.

Candidate comments: “I'll be a strong housing advocate on Council. Growing the residential population downtown means more vibrancy, more local business support, and safer, more connected communities. Let's invest in housing that brings people back to the heart of our city.”


Mixed

Which of the following comes closest to your position on public funding for the arts?

Olokude

Essential to quality of life and in need of stable funding.

Candidate comments: “Public funding for the arts is essential to our city's quality of life and cultural identity. I'll advocate for stable, consistent support so artists and communities can thrive.”
Mixed

Which of the following comes closest to your approach to economic development?

Olokude

Invest in entrepreneurship and local businesses.

Candidate comments: “I believe in investing in entrepreneurship and local businesses. Supporting small businesses creates jobs and keeps Edmonton's economy resilient and vibrant. I'll champion policies that help entrepreneurs thrive and ensure our local economy works for everyone.”
Mixed

Which of the following comes closest to your approach to development in the river valley?

Olokude

Protect it as a continuous natural area.

Candidate comments: “The river valley is Edmonton's crown jewel and must be protected for future generations. Our community fought hard to protect places like Blackmud Creek, and I'll stand strong to preserve these green spaces.”


Mixed

Which would you prioritize regarding aging recreation amenities?

Olokude

Extend the life of existing facilities and avoid closures.

Candidate comments: “Extend the life of existing recreation amenities is the better priority. But doing that well requires honesty about costs, inclusive planning, accessible facilities, and strong commitment to maintenance. Closures hurt deeply, both in practical access and in community hope. I want our recreation amenities to be a source of pride, not a steady drumbeat of closures.”
Mixed

Which action would you be most likely to advocate for on homelessness?

Olokude

Build and operate more permanent supportive housing.

Candidate comments: “More permanent supportive housing, paired with fully funded, wraparound supports, is the action we must prioritize in Edmonton. It's not enough to shelter people temporarily or to treat homelessness like a crisis that happens only in the streets. It must become a focus of structural change. Everyone in Edmonton deserves a home, dignity, safety, and the supports to heal and thrive.”
Mixed

Which action would you be most likely to advance to alleviate the housing crisis?

Olokude

Build housing, even without provincial or federal partners.

Candidate comments: “I consider myself a housing expert and advocate, having worked on Edmonton's affordable housing strategy. It's close to my heart. I will champion building more non-market and supportive housing even without other levels of govt. Edmontonians can't wait. Everyone deserves a safe, affordable place to call home, and the City must lead with urgency, compassion and collaboration to make that a reality.”


Mixed

Which of the following comes closest to your view on political parties at the municipal level?

Olokude

Members of council should be free from party affiliation.

Candidate comments: “I'm a proud independent, and I believe City Council must remain free from party politics. Edmonton's decisions need to be about people, not party lines. This independence ensures councillors listen to their communities first, collaborate openly, and focus on real solutions, not political agendas.”
Mixed

If the provincial government intervenes in a municipal matter, which would you prioritize?

Olokude

Stand up for Edmonton's autonomy.

Candidate comments: “I will always stand up for Edmonton's autonomy. Our city knows best what its communities need. At the same time, I believe in collaborative leadership and working respectfully with all levels of government while protecting local decision-making to build a stronger, more resilient Edmonton for everyone.”
Mixed

If the City of Edmonton faces public pressure to fund services under provincial jurisdiction, which would you prioritize?

Olokude

Redirect public pressure to secure sufficient provincial funding.

Candidate comments: “When public pressure mounts, I'll work to redirect it toward securing fair provincial funding. Strong leadership means bringing everyone to the table—community members, government partners to push for the resources Edmonton needs. Open communication and collaboration are key to ensuring our city gets the support it deserves.”


Mixed

Which of the following comes closest to your view of the City of Edmonton's responsibilities regarding Indigenous relations?

Olokude

Be guided by the Indigenous Framework in all decisions.

Candidate comments: “The City must be guided by the Indigenous Framework in every decision. We must honour the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's calls to action. I'm committed to building respectful, meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities.”
Mixed

Which of the following comes closest to your guiding principle for council's relationship with the Edmonton Police Commission?

Olokude

Scrutinize commission decisions and demand greater transparency.

Candidate comments: “I believe in strong collaboration with the Edmonton Police Commission and we must also demand greater transparency. Open, honest dialogue and scrutiny ensure public trust and safer communities. Together, we can build a policing system that all Edmontonians can trust.”
Mixed

Which of the following comes closest to your approach to Edmonton's role in the metropolitan region?

Olokude

Re-establish a strong metropolitan approach with shared priorities.

Candidate comments: “Working together with surrounding municipalities ensures coordinated growth, better services, and stronger regional solutions. Collaboration is key for the whole metro region to thrive.”


Mixed

Which of the following comes closest to your view on how major projects have been delivered?

Olokude

Performance is unsatisfactory because project management and execution are poor.

Candidate comments: “Edmontonians tell me every day they aren't getting value for their tax dollars and they deserve better. Too many major projects go over budget or off track because of poor planning and oversight. We need stronger accountability, clearer timelines, and community-centered decision-making to rebuild public trust and deliver real value.”
Mixed

Which of the following comes closest to your approach to building new capital projects?

Olokude

Maintain existing infrastructure instead of building more.

Candidate comments: “We must take care of what we have by maintaining and improving existing infrastructure. Let's find opportunities to expand where it makes sense, build smarter, and ensure every dollar delivers lasting value for our communities. When building makes sense, we should build. Edmontonians deserve the best amenities close to home.”
Mixed

Which of the following comes closest to your position on roadway expansion?

Olokude

Investing in transit would be a better use of funds than expansion.

Candidate comments: “I hear residents that transit must be more reliable, and LRT expansion will benefit our Ward. Investing in transit moves more people, supports climate goals, and builds equity. But smart planning matters. Roads like 41 Ave SW need upgrades. Let's balance today's needs with a better future.”


Mixed

Which of the following comes closest to your approach to strengthening council accountability?

Olokude

Implement a lobbyist registry.

Candidate comments: “Transparency for your taxes is key to accountability. We must build more trust and Council must stay focused on serving Edmontonians, not special interests.”
Mixed

Which action would you be most likely to advocate for to improve community safety?

Olokude

Invest in addressing root causes to reduce disorder.

Candidate comments: “I'll advocate for investing in addressing root causes of disorder, like houselessness, mental health, and addiction. Focusing on prevention and a full spectrum of support keeps communities safer and healthier, instead of just reacting to problems after they happen.”
Mixed

Which action would you be most likely to advocate for to improve street safety?

Olokude

Reduce vehicle traffic by incentivizing other modes of transportation.

Candidate comments: “To improve street safety, I'll push to reduce vehicle traffic by supporting transit, walking, and biking. I also hear residents asking for more traffic-calming measures and stronger bylaw enforcement. We need a balanced approach that makes our streets safer for everyone.”


Mixed

Which action would you be most likely to advocate for on bike lanes?

Olokude

Build more than is planned.

Candidate comments: “As a mom, I see how much families, like mine, love bike lanes in their communities that keep kids safe outdoors. Safe, connected cycling routes mean healthier communities and more families feeling confident to get around without cars. We need to prioritize more active transportation for all Edmontonians.”
Mixed

Which would you prioritize for snow clearing?

Olokude

Spend the same amount.

Candidate comments: “It's not just about spending more but spending smarter. I'll push to open the books, review how funds are being allocated, and find ways to improve within our existing budget. Keeping roads and sidewalks clear is essential, and I want to ensure every dollar delivers better, faster service for our community.”
Mixed

Which would you prioritize for high-capacity transit?

Olokude

Continue expanding light rail transit (LRT).

Candidate comments: “I'm excited to see LRT expansion extending further into Ward Ipiihkoohkanipiaohtsi and will strongly advocate to extend it further to Desrochers and beyond. Expanding light rail is key to building a connected, sustainable city that moves people efficiently and supports our climate goals. Let's keep pushing for more transit, everywhere.”