Albany Voters to Elect New Mayor in November

Incumbent Mayor Alex Johnson II faces two challengers in the citywide election.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in City Hall

Albany Voters to Elect New Mayor in November

Live Poll

Will the upcoming election lead to more or less focus on local infrastructure development in Albany?

Albany residents will head to the polls in November 2026 to choose their next leader for a two-year term. Incumbent Mayor Alex Johnson II is seeking a fourth term against opponents Josh Wark and Carolyn McLeod.

Why it matters

Candidates are campaigning on the challenge of balancing city population growth with the need for infrastructure funding and housing affordability. These issues remain central as the city projects an expanding tax base in the coming years.

The City Council approved a street maintenance fee in October 2026 to fund repairs for 200 roads. The city also reports the completion of 30 housing units on Valor Place and expects to finish 38 affordable units for veterans soon.

The players

Alex Johnson II

He is the incumbent mayor of Albany seeking his fourth two-year term.

Josh Wark

He is a candidate running for the position of mayor in the November election.

Carolyn McLeod

She is a candidate running for the position of mayor in the November election.

Linn Benton Housing Authority

This organization facilitates the development and management of affordable housing projects in the region.

The details

New residential development in Albany currently contributes system development charges to finance infrastructure, including stormwater, sewer, water, and parks. Mayor Alex Johnson II secured the street maintenance fee through a tie-breaking vote last month.

October 2026: City Council approved a street maintenance fee.
November 2026: The mayoral election occurs.
January 1, 2027: A new mayoral term begins.
December 31, 2028: The mayoral term ends.

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Political Context

The city relies on system development charges to fund necessary infrastructure, including water, sewer, and parks. Critics and opponents of the incumbent argue that current strategies require a different approach to maintain fiscal balance alongside housing expansion.

Voters will determine which candidate's approach to housing and infrastructure funding best aligns with their household budget and the city's future. The new street maintenance fee approved in October will influence local infrastructure funding through the next term.

The takeaway

Albany residents should examine how each candidate plans to balance infrastructure costs with the city's growing housing needs. Voters are encouraged to review local ballot materials to understand the specific impacts of the new street maintenance fee on their property.