Richard Ireland, Mayor
A town of 5,000 set in a national park, Jasper’s summer population can swell to 20,000–25,000 with seasonal workers and visitors. After a 2024 height-of-the-season wildfire destroyed nearly a third of the town, including his 67-year-old family home, Mayor Ireland became a steady force for recovery, climate action, and resilience. In the wake of the fire, he led early recovery efforts, overseeing community-centered initiatives and supporting residents through the complex rebuilding process. He helped advance Jasper’s 28-action Climate Adaptation & Mitigation Plan, expanded the town’s fast-charging EV network, and advocated nationally for clean energy alongside other Canadian mayors. Through calm, visible leadership, he guided Jasper toward resilience, equity, and sustainability, helping position the town as a model for small-town climate action. Is it any wonder he was recently named Alberta’s best mayor?
