Knack reconsidering decision not to run in upcoming Edmonton municipal election

Knack said he's considering running in the upcoming municipal election as Sohi runs in the federal election. CTV News Edmonton's Miriam Valdes-Carletti reports.

A change of heart?

Andrew Knack, the west-end Edmonton city councillor who said in September he would not seek re-election in municipal elections later this year, is reconsidering his decision.

The 12-year veteran of city council who represents Ward Nakota Isga had announced in an emotional media conference on Sept. 9 his career in municipal politics would end after the current term.

• Download our app to get Edmonton alerts on your device

On Monday, after city council met to discuss how to cover Mayor Amarjeet Sohi’s duties while he runs for federal office, Knack said he’s going to take time “to seriously consider it” after it became rumoured then known over the past several days Sohi would seek election in southeast Edmonton for the Liberals.

Knack had been considered a potential candidate to run for mayor.

“I started getting a few calls and emails and texts from people saying, ‘Hey, are you thinking of doing this?’” Knack told CTV News Edmonton.

“I’ll admit that’s fairly humbling to have people reach out and ask that question, but you can’t rush a decision like this. A week ago, I had no thought that this could even be something that would be on the table, but now I want to take the time (and) take a number of weeks ... to meet with Edmontonians.”

If Knack were to run for mayor, he would face Coun. Tim Cartmell and former councillor Tony Caterina, who each declared their candidacy for the role in November.

“If folks believe that there’s an opportunity or a role that I can play to help serve best all of Edmontonians, I’ll certainly consider it,” Knack said.

With files from CTV News Edmonton’s Jeremy Thompson