Jesse Watson is a former City of Edmonton real estate supervisor, small-business owner, and committed community advocate whose deep understanding of municipal systems and passion for civic engagement have made him a recognizable voice in local conversations about how Edmonton should grow, function, and take care of its people. His work continues to challenge the status quo by pushing for transparency, accountability, and a renewed focus on community-driven change across the city.

When it comes to community building, Jesse believes the biggest barriers today come from red tape and bureaucratic processes that have replaced the simplicity of grassroots initiative. What used to be straightforward, like fundraising for a playground and building it together. Now involves approvals, RFPs, insurance requirements, and complex contracts that discourage community-led projects. He argues that residents and local businesses have increasingly stepped into roles the city once held, from addressing housing encampments to organizing safety patrols, creating a necessity for stronger partnerships at the neighbourhood level. In his view, removing unnecessary barriers and offering practical tools, like simplified permits, ready-to-use toolkits, and clear emergency response plans, would empower communities to bring people together more effectively.

On government accountability, Jesse emphasizes that rebuilding trust starts with the basics: transparent, dynamic dashboards that clearly show how public dollars are being spent. If residents can’t trust foundational reporting, he argues, it becomes impossible to trust higher-level decisions. He believes citizens must challenge the status quo instead of becoming apathetic or fearful, engaging in civic processes beyond the ballot box. From his experience inside city operations, accountability often slips around timelines, costs, and decision-making, reinforcing the need for more honest communication and structural reform.

When discussing history and heritage, Jesse insists that Edmonton’s identity is one of its most valuable assets. He notes that people travel the world to experience culture, so abandoning our own makes little sense. He believes modern development can coexist with heritage preservation when change is human-centered and contextual rather than driven purely by scale or profit. Not all neighbourhoods require drastic redevelopment, and many can evolve while still honouring what makes them meaningful. For him, places like Rossdale tell some of the city’s most powerful stories. rooted in Indigenous history, early settlement, and the layered identity Edmonton continues to build.

In conclusion, Jesse’s perspective ties together a clear message: Edmonton thrives when communities are empowered, government is transparent, and our history is treated as a foundation rather than an obstacle. His commitment to accountability, connection, and cultural preservation reflects a belief that meaningful change happens when everyday people are given the tools and the permission, to shape the city they call home.

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Making friends can be really tough these days. It seems that many people in this generation struggle with finding friends.

Today I ask University students at the University of Alberta how they make friends and how to deal with the haters.

I think the meaning of life is in the connections that we make. It is super duper important that we do not neglect finding people that we can grow together with.

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I went to the Edmonton Legislature to speak with protesters about Alberta’s use of the Notwithstanding Clause and Bill 9. I asked people why they showed up, what they think about the government’s decision, and how these changes are affecting trans individuals, families, and allies.

This video captures unfiltered reactions, personal stories, and the voices of those directly impacted. My goal is to give space to the people on the ground and help viewers understand what this moment means for the trans community in Alberta.

If you found this valuable, consider liking, commenting your perspective, and subscribing for more on-the-ground conversations.

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