In a dramatic reversal, Calgary's city council opted not to terminate the employment of City Manager David Duckworth following a closed-door meeting on Tuesday, January 12, 2026. The decision came after intense public pressure for accountability in the wake of a devastating water system failure.
A Day of Reckoning That Didn't Happen
Tuesday, January 12, was anticipated by many as a day of decisive action. Following a scathing independent report that placed blame for the city's water system "goat rodeo" squarely on senior leadership, several councillors had strongly hinted that a top official needed to be held responsible. While they did not name Duckworth publicly, citing advice from the city, the implication was clear: the chief administrative officer (CAO) was on the firing line.
The crisis stemmed from a second major pipe explosion on December 30, which exacerbated ongoing water woes. An expert investigation pointed directly at city brass for the failures, describing a pattern of incompetence and stupidity that predated the latest incident. For many, this report was the final straw.
Council Divided Behind Closed Doors
After hours of public debate regarding the water system failures, council retreated into a private session, described by some as entering the "Chamber of Secrets." When they emerged, the verdict was a reprieve for Duckworth, a holdover from former Mayor Naheed Nenshi's administration.
Prior to the private vote, several councillors had publicly advocated for sweeping change. Councillor Dan McLean pushed for accountability at the highest levels, stating, "Let's do it fast. No more procrastination. No more kicking the can down the road. I want to get things done." He emphasized that Calgarians demanded to see consequences.
Councillor Landon Johnston went further, calling for "massive change within the organization," noting that while change starts at the top, it must not end there. Rookie Councillor Kim Tyers echoed the sentiment, stating trust in city hall was at an all-time low and someone in the "top echelon" needed to take responsibility.
The Aftermath and Lingering Questions
However, not all council members were in favour of dismissal. Councillors Andre Chabot and Jennifer Wyness were among those not seeking Duckworth's removal. The resulting decision to retain him has been framed by critics as council losing its nerve at the critical moment.
The outcome leaves a major question unanswered for many residents: who will be held accountable for the systemic failures that led to the water crisis? Council has stated it expects Duckworth to deliver results for Calgarians, but opponents argue that after such a significant failure, actions speak louder than words. The survival of the city's top bureaucrat signals a preference for continuity over upheaval, a choice that will undoubtedly continue to fuel debate about leadership and responsibility at Calgary City Hall.
