Interesting campaign and election. Typical incumbent election with support waning; with many folks looking for a change just for change sake and maybe a new face in the mayors chair.  Neshi has a somewhat folksy persona which in Calgary wins over the staid more conservative persona of Smith the lawyer. Lotsa people don't trust lawyers (and probably for good reason) especially when said lawyer has no firm plans for many key issues. To be elected you gotta have a platform you can realistically keep. So for many voters it's better to go with the devil you know than one you don't. Calgary will survive just fine with a little fiscal conservatism, and the Flames will still be playing hockey even if it isn't in a glitzy new arena.  Now Calgary, get busy and make a serious pitch for that new Amazon distribution center.