Security Preparations for the 2025 G7 Summit in Kananaskis Country and the Resignation of Calgary Police Chief Mark Neufeld

The resignation of Calgary Police Chief Mark Neufeld on May 2, 2025, occurred amid preparations for the G7 Leaders’ Summit in Kananaskis Country, Alberta, scheduled for June 15–17, 2025. While the timing of his departure raised questions about potential links to summit security challenges, available evidence indicates no direct connection between his resignation and operational or planning shortcomings related to the event.

Leadership Transition and G7 Security Planning

Context of Neufeld’s Resignation

Chief Neufeld’s resignation followed six years leading the Calgary Police Service (CPS), with two years remaining on his contract1 24. The Calgary Police Commission cited no specific reasons for his departure, emphasizing his contributions during “turbulent times,” including the COVID-19 pandemic and internal reforms45. Interim Chief Katie McLellan, a 38-year CPS veteran, assumed leadership immediately, with the commission delaying a permanent replacement search to prioritize stability ahead of major summer events, including the G7 Summit69.

G7 Security Framework

Security for the Kananaskis summit falls under the Integrated Safety and Security Group (ISSG), a multi-agency coalition led by the RCMP and including CPS, Alberta Sheriffs, Conservation Officers, and the Canadian Armed Forces10 1113. Planning began in late 2024, with CPS collaborating closely on resource allocation, traffic management, and protest mitigation712. Neufeld had previously affirmed that federal funding through Public Safety Canada would cover summit-related costs, avoiding strain on Calgary’s municipal budget7.

Analysis of Resignation Timing and Security Implications

Preparedness and Continuity

Despite Neufeld’s unexpected resignation, operational continuity was ensured through McLellan’s appointment. As deputy chief since 2019, she oversaw investigative support and community partnerships, including crisis response strategies critical for summit security69. The commission emphasized her role in minimizing disruptions to G7 planning, noting her experience in “grassroots community policing” and collaboration with social agencies69.

No Evidence of Security-Driven Resignation

Multiple sources confirm that summit security planning was advanced prior to Neufeld’s departure. The ISSG had already established a controlled access zone (June 10–18), airspace restrictions, and traffic diversions, with Alberta Parks announcing closures along Highway 40 and trails14. RCMP-led preparations included lessons from past summits, such as the 2002 Kananaskis G8 meeting and the 2018 Charlevoix G71213. Calgary’s role primarily involved supporting RCMP logistics rather than leading security, reducing the likelihood of CPS-specific pressures influencing Neufeld’s decision710.

Critics, including criminologist Doug King, acknowledged Neufeld’s successes in funding advocacy and internal reforms but noted persistent morale issues unrelated to the G75. Similarly, while some community advocates criticized his handling of accountability measures, these concerns predated summit planning5. Commission members and Mayor Jyoti Gondek declined to link his resignation to operational matters, citing confidentiality59.

Interim Leadership and Summit Readiness

McLellan’s Priorities

In her introductory address, Interim Chief McLellan highlighted seamless leadership transition and reiterated CPS’s commitment to G7 security, Stampede policing, and frontline staffing challenges69. Deputy Chiefs Cliff O’Brien and Asif Rashid were appointed to oversee community policing and investigative support, respectively, ensuring specialized focus on summit-related operations6.

ISSG Coordination

The ISSG’s layered security strategy includes:

Controlled Access Zones: Restricted areas around summit venues with credential checks and patrols1114.
Traffic Management: Highway 40 closures, detours, and alternative routes to balance safety and public access1114.
Airspace Restrictions: A 30-nautical-mile no-fly zone and anti-drone measures1314.
Public Engagement: Community consultations to address local concerns and designate protest zones1013.

These measures, developed collaboratively across agencies, reflect standardized protocols for high-profile events, minimizing reliance on individual leadership figures like Neufeld1213.

Conclusion

Chief Neufeld’s resignation aligns with broader organizational challenges within CPS, including morale and staffing, rather than G7-specific security failures. The ISSG’s pre-existing framework and McLellan’s operational experience ensure preparedness, with federal oversight further insulating summit logistics from local leadership changes. While his departure introduces transitional complexities, systemic safeguards and multi-agency collaboration mitigate risks to summit security.

Citations:

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