He beat out prominent politicians Dan Vandal, Al Golden, and MaryAnn Mihychuk for the job by receiving 42.51% of the vote. This came after the resignation of Glen Murray as mayor of Winnipeg to run in the 2004 federal election. Katz was re-elected to a second term in the 2006 elections on 25 October 2006.
He won the mayoral position by receiving 42.51% of the vote, defeating prominent politicians Dan Vandal, Al Golden, and MaryAnn Mihychuk. This occurred after Glen Murray resigned as mayor to run for federal office in 2004. Katz was re-elected for a second term on October 25, 2006.