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Long-serving Medicine Hat councillor Dumanowski will seek re-election

Sep 10, 2025 | 1:20 PM

Long-serving Medicine Hat councillor Robert Dumanowski will be seeking re-election in the fall municipal election.

He announced Wednesday morning that his candidacy for the upcoming election is official.

Dumanowski has held a position on council since first being elected in 2001. Making him longest serving current councillor by a wide margin, and one of the longest in the history of the city.

He has also worked in education for almost three decades.

“I love this city, and I am committed to making sure Medicine Hat continues to be a place where families thrive, businesses grow, and everyone feels included,” said Dumanowski in a statement.

“I’ve spent my career listening to people, solving problems, and building solutions that last—and I want to keep doing that for the citizens I serve.”

Dumanowski said that after nearly 24 years on city council, his commitment to Medicine Hat and its residents has never been stronger.

“I am running again because public service is a calling, not a job. I want to continue using my experience to make thoughtful decisions, support our families and businesses, and ensure our city thrives now and for future generations,” Dumanowski said.

“This is about serving people with integrity, listening to their needs, and doing what’s best for the community we all love.”

He adds that it would be a true privilege and an honour to serve the people of Medicine Hat once again.

“This city has given my family and me so much, and I am deeply grateful for the trust and support of our residents over the years,” Dumanowski said.

“My commitment is to continue listening, learning, and working every day to help families and local businesses thrive,” he added.

“Serving this community is more than a role—it’s a responsibility and a joy, and I hope to keep giving back to the city we all love and call home.”

Over his more than two decades on council Dumanowski said he has chaired or vice-chaired every standing committee, including audit, corporate services, energy, land & environment, development & infrastructure, administrative & legislative, economic development, and the police commission.

He has also served on boards for the Shortgrass Library Board, and the Medalta in the Historic Clay District.

Dumanowski added that he has been instrumental in strengthening public services, supporting local business growth, and enhancing programs for seniors and youth.

National and provincial recognition from Dumanowski’s time in public service include.

  • Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal for Public Service (2012) – honoring outstanding contributions to the community
  • Alberta Municipalities Distinguished Service Award (2024) – nominated by his fellow council members, recognizing more than 20 years of dedicated municipal service
  • Excellence in Catholic Education Award (2025) – honoring nearly three decades as a Catholic educator, reflecting dual commitments to education and civic leadership.

“Leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about results,” Dumanowski said.

“I practice servant leadership every day, always thinking about the people and businesses who make this city thrive. Every action I take is focused on keeping Medicine Hat safe, prosperous, and welcoming for everyone.”

“Together, we can continue to build a city that we are all proud to call home.”

He lists several priorities on his platform:

  • Fostering a strong local economy and supporting good jobs
  • Keeping utilities publicly owned with fair taxes
  • Maintaining excellent fire and police services
  • Championing business growth and new economic development
  • Promoting an inclusive, accessible community
  • Enhancing programs and recreational opportunities for youth and seniors
  • Practicing fiscal restraint and accountability
  • Ensuring an open and transparent city council
  • Preserving positive labour relations with city employees.

Dumanowski who was born in Oyen, Alta. moved with his family to Medicine Hat at the age of one.

He’s a second-generation Canadian with his parents and older sibling immigrating from Poland in 1964.