Town of Strathmore Council Candidates

 

EARL BEST

Over the past few weeks there have been many things said and done. Innuendoes, name calling, mud slinging, and cheap politicing. I don’t believe that is the way to run an election. It lacks true leadership. We need effective, proven leadership, which is balanced, responsible and practical, to ensure the best for our community.  Over the past six years I have endeavoured to be that person.

Leaders should not be defined by their popularity, but by their ability to share credit and admit errors. The ability to utilize motivation, and partnering for the greater good. Leadership is not about quick fixes, clever slogans, or dividing citizens. Sometimes leadership in public office means telling citizens what they need to know rather than what they want to hear. Leadership is the ability to learn and to expand your views, set goals, and take the initiative to reach those goals.

I know that the answers and solutions will only evolve over time with the proper leadership, facilitation and an acute amount of public interaction.  I subscribe to a firm belief that lasting, positive results are only achieved through hard work, and co-operation.  

The highway #1 by-pass IS NOT in Strathmore’s best interest.  But with tact, diplomacy and a co-operative partnership with the province it can and will be resolved. 

Watering restrictions are an issue. I believe there is a need to conserve water but the current restrictions are too imposing.

We need a down town beautification plan. 

And, my thoughts on Recreational Vehicles are well documented.

I believe I have the experience, knowledge, leadership and commitment that are critical to sit on Strathmore’s next Town Council.

On October 18th make your “Best” choice and re-elect me, Earl Best, to YOUR Town Council.

If you have any questions please call me at 403-934-6300.

 

 

ROCKY BLOKLAND

My wife, Ellie and myself have lived in Strathmore for over ten years.  We have four children and 11 grandchildren.  We own and operate two businesses in Strathmore.  

I talk to a lot of people daily and together with my family support, business colleagues and all my faithful customers, I have decided to run for council seat.

As I enter week two of this election campaign, I realize there are some major issues at hand, as well as a lot of discontent with the present state of affairs.  

I, Rocky will not get involved in any mudslinging, naming people or accusations.  I, Rocky will maintain a steady daily race of who I am and what I stand for.

What do I stand for?

I believe my platform is quite basic and straightforward.  We need accountability, efficiency, honesty, transparency and respect at council level.  “Respect” is a seven-letter word, and I am suggesting the next seven elected officials better learn to use it, both in regards to people and policy.

I would like to bring with me a no-nonsense, common sense and business sense of which I am well rehearsed in.

Let’s look at policies, both existing and new ones coming in.  Lets be accountable, and above all, transparent and honest.

After all, you the taxpayers of Strathmore, on October 18, are going to place seven of us in council chambers.

In closing, there are lots of issues at stake and with your vote, I will speak, debate, vote and work with council on your behalf and do what is best for Strathmore. I believe I can bring a fresh, new approach to council with forward thinking.  

Vote Rocky for council.  Vote October 18, 2010.

 

PAT FULE

I have lived in Strathmore since 1983 and am currently in my 28th year of teaching at Strathmore High School. As a high school teacher and volunteer coach, I wasn’t able to find the extra time to run for Town Council until now. I do have strong feelings on certain issues; therefore my main objectives for the 2010 Election Campaign are quite straightforward.

First of all, I support the businesses threatened by the proposed move of the Trans Canada Highway. We need to exhaust every idea regarding keeping the Trans Canada in its current location instead of giving in. In addition to working for them, I’d like to work with the council and downtown businesses to revitalize this area with the least impact on taxes. There are many empty buildings and we must find ways to return more stores to our downtown core. 

Providing recreational opportunities for families is extremely important. There should be more emphasis in future subdivisions on developing parks and recreational facilities. It would be great to see more sports courts, more expansive parks with playground equipment, and interconnected pathways for all ages.

I’d also like to foster stronger relations with the fire and police departments, as well as with our bylaw officers. We should be able to find ways to match up the needs of these services with the Town’s. 

Seniors have played a vital role in the development of Strathmore. We need to ensure we have enough extended care beds and that housing for able seniors is available and affordable.

I would also like to explore the feasibility of hiring a full-time Economic Development Officer for Strathmore. 

Finally, as far as the campaign itself, I want to run mine honorably. I sincerely believe there are honest and dedicated candidates in this election and I wish them all good luck.

 

DAVE HAMILTON

My areas of concern, is there has to be an alternative to the proposed ring road. The current proposal would adversely affect our local business community, which would have a ripple effect on the community as a whole. An economic development officer is needed to attract both light and heavy industry to our town. The spin offs would be an economic windfall for the town, as jobs would be created and we would enjoy a better tax base. There has to be more openness and accountability with a new council. The new council will have to remember, they are working for the people who elected them! There are other areas that I would like to address during the next three years if elected which are, researching the viability for a full time fire department, seniors, affordable housing, infrastructure for the town, which would include revisiting the irrigation system, recreational facilities such as more ball diamonds, hockey rinks and completing the walking paths throughout the town. And finally, as the town grows, to maintaining the level of local law enforcement with both the RCMP, the towns Peace Officers and Bylaw Officers.

 

KEVIN KEEGAN

I read or heard a quote once, and I apologize to the author if he or she reads this article, as I am unable to identify them. I thought it so fitting to life in general, that I keep it on my blackberry as a constant reminder of what to strive for.

“Take charge in making a difference”

– To be totally honest, my primary objective for this campaign is to get elected to town council. The path I take to achieve this goal consists of several other main objectives.

– To get out, meet and speak with as many residents and business owner/operators as possible. As of late, we hear through the media polls as well as submitted articles, the many concerns of residents and businesses alike. As accurate as these polls and articles appear, there is nothing like hearing it from the source. Not only hearing the concerns but the ideas and suggestions on how these problems may be rectified.

– I want the residents and businesses of Strathmore to know their thoughts, ideas, and concerns about our town and its future matter and they can have a voice on town council. 

– I want to encourage ALL residents of Strathmore to “take charge in making a difference”, and come out to vote on October 18, 2010.

 

CHERYL PAYNE

What will I do for Strathmore??

My advocacy will always be in the interest of the majority but this does not mean the other viewpoint was not considered.

I will publicly oppose the re-routing of Highway 1.  However, because highway 1 falls under federal jurisdiction I will have to consider the pros and cons of the re-alignment.

I will publicly say that we need an Economic Development Officer.  This position will help bring economic growth to create jobs for our residents so they can afford homes and families.

I will search for grant monies and funds that are available.

I will continuously review policies and procedures to ensure changes if required.

I will research options for commuters to get to Calgary in an affordable and timely manner.

I am a life long learner and will not become complacent with the responsibilities of council.

Why should YOU vote for ME??

I am very accountable and transparent.  

I believe all taxpayers should be able to have information of all the aspects of public business.

I can dedicate the hours of time to be an effective member of town council. As a business owner I can take off the time I need.

I understand the need for walking paths and dog runs.

I understand the clearing of road dilemmas and how to overcome this and other challenges.

I understand budgets. 

I am committed and welcome huge challenges.

Who am I?

I’m a 17 year Strathmore resident.

I understand and have served people of all ages and all walks of life.

I DESIRE to be a member of public service.

I am here to work for you.

 

TERRY PETERSON

After attending numerous town council meetings, I decided that with my experience to run again for council.  I previously served on town council from 1989 to 2001.  I am very concerned about our present economy and the uncertain economic times we may be facing.  That being said, one of my main objectives if elected is to make sure the spending of taxpayers’ dollars is done in an effective and prudent manner.  It may be time to examine all town operations to see if they are cost efficient and run in the most effective manner.  I believe council should go over the budget with a fine toothcomb and ask administration to justify their spending proposals with the right questions.  Other concerns like what should happen to Highway #1.  That is the privy of the provincial government but maybe we can have some influence on the outcome, as long as we do not become to entrenched in our views and are willing to compromise.

 

JOHN REMPEL

My Key Issues this election are; (1) Adequate Seniors Care. Seniors care in Alberta is rated among the lowest in the country.Having been a board member of the Wheatland Housing Authority, I have first hand knowledge of the level of care our seniors can expect from our government. The people in Alberta that require government assistance, mainly the elderly and people with special Needs are all but forgotten by the Alberta government. The latest example of that is home care services. This service has been instrumental in allowing not only seniors, but other people with special needs to remain in their homes, thus taking the pressure off our lodges and extended care facilities. (2)  Affordable Housing (or lack thereof) is of serious concern too me. It has been a project that has taken to many years to get off the ground. It appears that everything has been formalized and the project is about to begin.  (3)  Economic Development.  There are numerous Developers that are preparing area structure plans (ASP) for subdivisions in Strathmore that have a good mix of residential and commercial components.Development along the highway is being actively pursued. With the annexation  being completed this year, we have more Highway frontage  for development. Additional highway frontage through Strathmore makes it more attractive for commercial or light Industrial development along the highway.Sustainable environmental friendly industry would be a tremendous asset to Strathmore.

In the near future when the corridor for the realignment of the highway is established, and the portion of highway through Town becomes a local road, developers will be able to come up with more creative ideas for businesses along the highway that cater to the needs of the people that will come to Strathmore to support our businesses.

 

BOB SOBEL

I am married (Gina) with three adult children (Denise, Jon and Tom) and one grandchild (Aryn).  Upon completing 30 years of service as a peace officer with the RCMP in 2003, I chose to move to Strathmore and open a coffee shop (original Boulevard Café).  I decided to run for Town Council in 2007 because I felt that, although I really liked living in this town, things could improve.  I was fortunate enough to be elected and have spent the last three years working towards that goal.  I know, however, that the job is not done.  The recent annexation of 18 ½ quarters of land will present Council and Administration with many issues which will require common sense, integrity, professionalism, honesty and transparency.  If elected, I will continue to demonstrate those qualities as a Councillor for Strathmore.  My goals are to continue to focus on safe communities, to continue lobbying for a Strathmore Extended Care Facility, upgrades and expansion of our Hospital, a more realistic and responsible Trans Canada by-pass route and to purse a formal plan for Downtown revitalization.  Lastly, our Council was instrumental in introducing the “Quality of Life” Master Plan (2010), which is designed to guide decision-making with regards to future parks, recreation and cultural facilities for Strathmore (can be located on the Town of Strathmore Web Site by searching “quality of life master plan” in the search site).  This is a document which saw substantial public input and it will be my intention that this plan be in the forefront of planning and budget meetings.  Having lived and visited many municipalities in Alberta, I know how fortunate I am to live in Strathmore.  It is my intention to maintain and even improve on that quality.

 

LOIS WEGENER

“COMMITTED TO PEOPLE & COMMUNITY”

Our community and it’s future mean a great deal to me. I have been a part of it’s growth from 1200 to over 12,000 citizens.After 32 years employed in the community at Chinook Credit Union I retired and am now employed part-time at Eagle Lake Landscape Supply Centre.

With re-election I will:

*ensure we have adequate policing – with a plan for additional Peace Officers & RCMP

*commit to maintain and preserve our parks, green spaces and wetlands

*lobby for new, additional and safe playground equipment for our parks

*support the enhancement of recycling initiatives

*enhance recreational facilities and pathways. Work co-operatively with user groups to see that their needs are met. Ensure all new developments have adequate pathways included in their area structure plans

*continue to lobby for a viable Trans Canada by pass route

*support affordable housing initiatives- including Senior ‘s housing and family & low income housing

*continue to lobby for an Extended Care Centre

*continue to be fiscally responsible- resulting in minimal property tax increases

*bring a professional attitude to the Council table

*with my past experience deal with the new challenges annexation and development will create{storm water, infrastructure,policing, recreation}

As a councillor I am presently appointed to the following committee’s:Wheatland Family & Community Support Services, Wheatland Housing Management Body,WADEMSA{Ambulance},Communities in Bloom, Handi-Bus Committee, Relay for Life, Waters of Wheatland and Bow River Council.I have also served on the Financial Audit Committee. I have represented the Town at numerous other meetings, trade shows, parades and public events{Canada Day, Heritage Days, Santa Claus Parade & Birth Forest plantings}

Personally I volunteer as a Director on the Strathmore & District Agricultural Society{presently

Secretary Treasurer}

Citizens concerns are a priority for me and I feel I take appropriate action when required.

I have no hidden agenda and answer to the Citizens of Strathmore.

GUARANTEE YOUR VOICE WILL BE HEARD

 

JOHN WHIELDON

I would like to take this opportunity to thank my fellow Citizens of Strathmore for taking the time from their busy schedules to consider the new direction that they would like to see our Municipal Government put forward. Now is a unique time in our recent history to create positive and lasting improvements for our Community. Obviously not everyone will agree with what those improvements should be and how we get there but I feel with respectful dialogue all ideas can be considered for discussion. Highway #1 Re-alignment, an Economic Development Officer and the Down Town Core have monopolized one Local Paper. Those topics are extremely valid for discussion and effect us all in some way but they are not the only subjects on the minds of the Voters. I will be submitting my thoughts on various subjects throughout the campaign. I am now and forever opposed to moving, renovating or building a new Town Office. To a any secret undisclosed location as previously printed in the Standard or the Kinsmen Lake area formerly the CPR Right of Way. The Town Office was built in 1980. At that time, we the Citizens of Strathmore were promised to never again suffer the financial burden of the cost another structure would create. Furthermore I am opposed to the salary increase for the Councillors and Mayor that was proposed by the Town Management. (Council Meeting #10-C18. Policy No. 1806 Date: September 15th, 2010. Submitted By: Betty Gaskarth, Administration. Recommended Action: That Council approve Policy #1806 – Council Remuneration & Expense Policy as amended.  Mayor’s Salary to increase from $26,780.00 per year to $44,000.00 and Councillor’s Salary to increase from $15,450.00 to $22,000.00.) It was the recommendation of Administration to have this outlandish increase. I will vote loudly against any such increase if entrusted by you the Citizens of Strathmore to be your representative on Council.