Richard Ireland has indicated his intent to run for mayor in Jasper again.
The only mayor that the community has ever known filed his notice of intent papers today, August 15, 2025.
Reached at his home Friday afternoon, Ireland said he and his family came to the decision to offer his services to the community once again.
“I’m happy to be part of a team that’s all working in the same direction and if I can continue to do that, and hopefully inspire others to give their best then I think the community benefits from that,” he said.
The July 24, 2024 Jasper Wildfire put new demands on the mayor’s office, but it also increased his workload as a lawyer, Ireland said. Added to that is the onerous work of rebuilding his own home.
Ireland said before he committed to filing his nomination papers this year, he had to ensure he could organize his personal and professional life in such a way that he could devote the necessary time to the public role.
“I’ve reached a point where I’m reasonably confident that I can do that,” he said.
This is the eighth time Ireland has offered his services as mayor. Ireland was first elected when the Municipality of Jasper was created in 2001. Together with his experience as chair of the town committee, Ireland’s leadership role in Jasper has lasted 36 years.
In 1989, a year after he moved back to Jasper to purchase his law practice, Ireland would have had to file nomination papers for chair of the Jasper town committee—a role which he spent 11 years at. Back then, his wife Bonnie signed those papers. And although he has only filed his intent to run, it’s likely Bonnie will sign his 2025 nomination form, too.
“My intent is not mine alone,” he said.
In 2021, Ireland received 920 votes. His next closest challenger, former municipal councillor Paul Butler, received 414 votes.
Two other Jasperites have filed their nomination papers for the 2025 election. Incumbent councillor Wendy Hall, who received the most votes (973) of any nominee in 2021, filed on January 2, 2025. And Gillian Thomas, who has not been on Jasper’s ballot before, filed her nomination papers on July 28.
Other potential candidates for the municipal election must file nomination papers by September 22, 2025.
Nominations can be submitted in person to the Returning Officer or Deputy Returning Officer by appointment. To make an appointment, contact Emma Acorn, Deputy Returning Officer, at eacorn@jasper-alberta.ca or call 780-852-6503.
Voters are encouraged to register in advance to receive information from Elections Alberta, including voter cards sent in regular mail. Visit Elections Alberta to check or update your voter registration.
Election day is October 20. Jasper voters elect six councillors and one mayor.
More municipal election information is available on the Municipality of Jasper’s website.
Bob Covey // bob@thejasperlocal.com
