Town of Strathmore Council Candidates – Week 3

We need effective, proven leadership, which is balanced, responsible and dedicated, to ensure the best for our community. Over the past six years I have become that person. I have learned the process and realities of municipal government. I have lived and breathed the issues and concerns of the Strathmore public. I am motivated by a strong desire to be involved in finding equitable solutions and have an absolute passion and love for this town which I call home.

I have gained the respect and trust of other municipalities and those whom I have served with. 

“I have known Earl Best since he was elected to Strathmore Town Council six years ago. His support, advice, insights and his efforts will better serve your citizens. I have always found Earl to be constructive and professional in his dealings. He understands the importance of cooperation and has made it his priority to find win-win solutions. In my experience, Earl has been amongst the “Best” to work with!”

Bob Hawkesworth

Alderman – City of Calgary

Mayoral Candidate – City of Calgary

“Earl Best has the two most important attributes a town councillor needs:

– A love of the community he or she lives in and 

– A passion for doing what is best for that community. 

For as long as I have known him, I have always been impressed with Earl’s drive and dedication to making Strathmore a wonderful place to live.”

James T. Greer

Former Councilor – Town of Strathmore

Recently you have read and heard many ambitious platforms, some more believable and workable than others.  

Now, it is up to you. 

On October 18th I ask, for your vote to re-elect me, Earl Best, to YOUR Town Council.

In closing, if you have ANY questions or there is anything I can do for you, please call me at 403-934-6300

 

 

Rocky Blokland 

As we start the final week of this election campaign in Strathmore, I would like to say I’m honored and privileged to be in the same company of candidates we have running for mayor and council. I certainly wish them all well.

You, the voters are going to have some tough decisions to make on election day, and I think that’s in this democratic process, I’m sure the right mayor and six councilors will be picked, to help move and guide Strathmore forward.

Having said all of the above, I, Rocky want you, the voters, to seriously look at my name on the ballot! Blokland, Rocky – X

I believe I am the councilor you’re looking for. 

I operate two businesses that are located INSIDE the town of Strathmore!

I believe we need accountability, efficiency, honesty, transparency and respect at council level.

I bring with me a no nonsense approach, combined with my common sense and business sense.

I know we can achieve all of the above within the next town council.

I can promise you that I will speak, debate, vote & work with council on your behalf and do what is best for Strathmore.

With your vote, I will work hard to bring new ideas and a new way of thinking to ensure we can all continue to be proud to call Strathmore “home.”  

Remember, vote Rocky on October 18.

Blokland, Rocky – X

 

 

Colina Clark 

This has been such a tremendous experience. Over the last few weeks I have had the privilege to meet and speak with numerous people who have shared their backgrounds and concerns with me and offered kind words of encouragement and feedback. Thank you for allowing me that opportunity, I really appreciate it!

As I have expressed, I believe anyone in the position of councillor or any town official must: genuinely demonstrate an appreciation and respect for others; the desire to serve others; a willingness to listen and to learn; an understanding of the role and its limitation; and an ability to challenge fellow council and administration for the best interest of the community, standing up in a crowd and speaking to be heard.

My focus is on the community, representing all residents. The heart of any community or business is the PEOPLE. Whatever I am able to contribute, I want it to have merit, quality instead of quantity, as I live here too! Any one person can make a difference, just need to try.

Vote for the candidate(s) that you feel would represent you and our community.

 

 

Bill Cooper 

Support The Vision

I have extensive business background, owned and operated a number of businesses, employed as business and marketing consultant for two large Western Canadian corporation, currently work in the computer industry providing full range of solution to private and public corporations.

I’m quite surprised with what are considered priorities in our community.

The message is simple. Economic development is our “Number One Priority”

We are living in an Economic landscape that has no sizable commercial, industrial or logistic based business and we have to rely on the residents to carry the burden.

Our Town is a business and it requires skilled marketing to promote it.

It also needs; increasing revenues, strict operational guidelines, customer service and “Real-Time” flow of information to you the shareholders.

The hiring of an economic development officer would only be one of the necessary components for an Economic Recovery strategy.

Incentives to entice Businesses to relocation may be needed to be considered, this has proven to be successful in communities such as Airdrie and Lacombe. 

We do have the necessary services infrastructure, annexed land, large residential development plan to the West, a good employment pool and are in close proximity to the highway, no matter where it ends up.

Strategies:

Logistics and Distribution networks, Small and Medium manufacturing

Foodservice and service based businesses, franchising is expanding rapidly today.

Healthcare facilities, private expansion of senior care facilities of all types. 

Where will our children be able to work within Strathmore!!!!!!!

Other issues part of “Support the Vision”

• Preservation of the existing highway route through the Town of Strathmore.

• “Strathmore as a Destination” establish a Task Force.

• Public Safety and increase enforcement.

• Openness and accountability of Council, information flow and Review Taxes.

• Snow Removal.

• Community development planning has to include affordable Senior housing.

• Calgary water pipeline has left a lot of questions unanswered.

• Establish a recreation area at the site of the water reservoir lake NW of town.

I believe that my solid business background, good common sense and the understanding of the need for an Economic Vision for Strathmore, this is more than a good reason to vote for me.

Please support my bid for Councillor and Vote October 18, 2010.

 

 

Pat Fule 

I would like to start off by thanking all of you for your interest in our election and the wonderful support I have received. It would be an honour for me to represent the residents of Strathmore on our next Town Council.

As a resident, teacher, and coach in this community over the last 27 years, I feel I have displayed many of the qualities that a Town Councillor should possess. I have treated people with respect, empathy, genuine concern, and courtesy.  I listen to both sides of issues and am not afraid to stand up for what I believe is right. I have strong organizational skills and the knowledge of how meetings should be run – how councillors need to treat each other with respect and follow proper procedures. I know the importance of maintaining open communication among the council itself, the residents of Strathmore, and the various organizations involved in the decision-making processes. 

Throughout my campaign, I have shown that I will do the research and seek out answers and information to the problems and situations Strathmore faces. I am excited about Strathmore’s future and have lots of ideas to share. There are many additional committees that a councillor could join, and I look forward to getting involved. My enthusiasm and interest in providing recreational opportunities for our youth and families, ensuring a safe community, taking care of our seniors, and revitalizing Downtown while supporting local businesses will continue. 

If elected, I will bring honesty, integrity, and respect for the citizens of Strathmore to my role as councillor. I will continue to be approachable and I will work hard to accomplish our goals. I will be visible in our community and will act as a voice for your thoughts and concerns.

On October 18th, FULE IT UP!  Vote PAT FULE for Town Council!

 

 

Dave  Hamilton 

Was unavailable as of press time.

 

 

Kevin Keegan 

It would be easy for me to sit here at my desk and tell you, the voter, what a great guy I am; how honest I am, that I care about you, your concerns, about our town, and that I want to listen to your ideas and suggestions on how we can move our town into the future. How I will take your questions and concerns to council and voice them on your behalf, and that as a resident and small business owner here in Strathmore; I share many of the same concerns, questions, and sometimes frustrations when trying to get understandable answers. But saying it just isn’t enough. I hope the residents of Strathmore will take what I write at face value and give me the opportunity to put my words into action. 

I’m not the type of person to just talk about how good I am or complain about what’s going on around us. I am a ‘doer’. I seek answers to my questions and work hard to achieve my goals. In the short period of time from nomination day to Election Day I have, and will continue, to visit as many homes in Strathmore as possible; to introduce myself and hear any of your concerns, questions, and ideas. Although I am using every available minute on this quest, it’s unrealistic to believe I can reach every home in Strathmore. I apologize in advance to all those residents I am unable to get to.  However, I strongly believe in accessibility to our elected officials and invite you to e-mail me anytime at keeganoncouncil@shaw.ca    

Please be assured, I will reply. If I do not have the answer to your question, I will do my best to find it.

Why put an X beside my name?   I CARE!

Kevin Keegan

 

 

Cheryl Payne 

Why should YOU vote for ME??

As the past Chief Administrative Officer and previous Social Housing Manager for the Wheatland Housing Management Body, AUPE Council Member, and from many University Courses I have had the opportunity to work with government legislation of all types.  For example,  Municipal Government Act., Management Body Handbook, FOIP Act,  Human Rights, Employment Standards, The Alberta Housing Act, Support for Senior Citizens, Protection for Persons in Care and so much more. With these life experiences I am ready to move to another level as YOUR new Town Councillor.

As this is my first attempt I am ready to move the community forward together by making necessary changes to the status quo.  I bring fresh blood and young energy, along with many attributes that will make me YOUR successful choice. 

I am very passionate and willing to listen to all residents’ concerns.  I am a reasonable and fair person.  I can see both sides of an issue. 

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

I can dedicate the hours of time to be an effective member of town council.

I understand budgets. 

I am very accountable and transparent.  

I am committed and welcome huge challenges.

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

I am able to make tough decisions.

I consider myself a strong team player as well as a strong voice for YOU.  I will speak out for YOUR concerns.

I am very accessible.  YOU can contact me at 403 934 2238, payne4council.wordpress.com, facebook (serch for: Cheryl Payne for Strathmore Town Council), and Payne4council@gmail.com

I DESIRE to be a member of public service.

I am here to work for YOU – Choose wisely and vote Cheryl Payne

 

 

Terry Peterson 

I am retired and will have more than adequate time to work on the business of council. I have twelve years experience serving on council so I know how municipal government functions. I am a fiscal conservative, so I will work with council on fiscal and financial responsibility and restraint. Will work with council for lower taxes and utility rates. Will work with council and administration to make sure that the town does not take on any more debt. Will work with council to resolve any and all citizens concerns. Will work with council to be a strong political advocate for much needed improvements to the Strathmore hospital. Will work with council to get the fundamentals right to attract commercial and light industry to town. Will work with council to have open and clear communications between the town and the citizens of Strathmore.      

 

 

John Rempel 

4 Reasons Why People Should Vote For Me

I believe the Candidates should be able to Demonstrate Solid Leadership with a Clear Vision for the Future of Strathmore. They must be Committed, and Accountable to the Taxpayer. I believe that I represent the Citizens of Strathmore with those qualities. Furthermore, I believe that my past performance on council is a testament to that. 

Members of council have to make decisions that affect the Entire Community. The decision making process requires council to consider all the Issues, and based on that information, make a decision that is in the best interest of the Taxpayers of Strathmore. In order to make those decisions you have to be in tune with your community, which I believe I am. 

The priorities of the Community have to be considered in all budgetary discussions, and dealt with in a timely manner. Presently we are budgeting for the replacement of our aging infrastructure downtown and other areas of Town as needed. I am committed to follow through with that.

Long range planning is so very important in shaping the future of any Community. I and other members of Council have during the last 10-15 years had the foresight to lay the framework by ensuring we have a good source of water, and plenty of it. Infrastructure, and the new wastewater treatment plant for our effluent are also in place. With the annexation of additional lands, not only for Residential, but for Commercial and Industrial purposes, everything is in place for the new Council to aggressively promote Strathmore globally. 

With your support I will help the new council reshape Strathmore and make it a Friendly and Attractive Community for tourists and travelers to explore.

A Community on Canada’s Main Street, where all visitors will feel welcome.

I Am Committed To “Strathmore’s Future Growth And Prosperity.”

I ask for your VOTE on Oct.18th. Because I Will Make A Difference !!!!

I am the person with the taxpayer in mind.    

 

 

Bob Sobol 

I feel that applying for public office should be much like applying for any job – one should have to present a resume and then be interviewed. Over the last three weeks, with my personal attendance at many of your residences and, as well, by participating in the various forums and by submitting newspaper articles, I feel I have been interviewed. My resume is as follows:

Employment

1974-2003 – Peace Officer (RCMP – retiring as Sergeant)

2003-2005 – Proprietor (Boulevard Café, Strathmore)

2005-Present – Civilian Field Investigator (RCMP Recruiting Section)

2007-Present – Councillor (Strathmore Town Council)

Skills/Achievements

Married (33 years) to Gina, three adult children and one grandchild

Excellent verbal and written ability in English 

Excellent organizations/planning abilities

Moderate computer skills

Awarded RCMP Long Service Medal and RCMP Year Bronze Clasp

Awarded commemorative Medal for 125th Anniversary of Confederation of Canada (Governor General Award)

Extensive volunteer background (Fairview Fire Department, Fairview Boy Scouts, Fairview Victims Assistance Associations, Elks Club of Canada, Rotary International, Northwest Winter Games, Minor Baseball Association, Minor Soccer Association, Strathmore Regional Victims Services and Strathmore Musical Arts Society)

It is said that the manner in which a person will perform in the future can be judged by the manner he/she performed in the past. Throughout my three-year term on Town Council, I have respected the responsibility placed upon me by the citizens of Strathmore. I have taken my job seriously – always preparing myself by reading reports and doing the necessary research prior to Council and Administration  meetings. I have diligently attended the numerous committee meetings on which I represented the Town of Strathmore. I have worked well with staff and council, and regularly lobbied for what I believed was the best for Strathmore. My pledge to you is that this level of commitment will continue. Voting for me means voting for knowledge, dedication, honest, truthfulness and common sense. 

 

 

Lois Wegener 

WHY ELECT LOIS WEGENER

* We have heard the citizens concerns about Council’s remuneration, however any per diem claims I have submitted have been made in good conscience and in accordance with Town policy. Council voted Oct. 6 to have the remuneration reviewed by an independent group of citizens.

* I advocate that any changes to Council’s remuneration will be made effective after the next municipal election. Any Council will only set the rates for the next Council.

* I have listened and responded in a timely manner to citizens concerns. Following Town policy I have acted on those concerns, with Town administration to take appropriate action.

* As your Councillor I have served on numerous committees and boards. As an active member on these committees I have not missed meetings and have served as Chairman or Vice.

* For over a year I served on the annexation negotiation committee which resulted in a successful outcome of all 18 1/2 quarters of land requested being annexed.

* Good Vision and Knowledge of orderly development and growth of newly annexed lands.

* After 32 years with a financial institution, I understand the Budget process and the need for financial planning and adequate reserves.

* Passion for our community and citizens.

* Personally support and attend numerous community and charity events.

* Not only do I support more green space, I back this by being actively involved with Communities in Bloom.

* Proven ability to participate in a professional manner.

* The Town needs good business relations with the province and other municipal partners, I can play a major role cultivating those partnerships.

* I have valuable Council experience and after October 18, I hit the ground running and prepared.

* The one promise I can make is that I will work for YOU the citizens of Strathmore and GUARANTEE your voice will be heard.

On October 18th, vote Lois Wegener!

 

 

John Whieldon 

I would like to thank my fellow Citizens of Strathmore for their consideration throughout this Election process. I realize that it is difficult to put your trust into someone else’s hands that will directly affect you and your family’s future. I too as a voter have the dilemma of which Candidates to choose. I have predicted from the beginning it is very obvious that the four incumbent Councilor Candidates will retain their positions. That leaves only two positions for the nine remaining Candidates to fill. Which Candidate addresses the issues that you value the most without sounding like all of the rest? Someone who is genuine and passionate about Strathmore? A person that you would feel comfortable with, sitting at your dinner table either sharing a meal or discussing the issues? My platform has been to the point and will not waiver. I support a Sustainable Residential Irrigation System. I support cleaning out Kinsmen Lake. A vote for me sends a clear message to the rest of Council that you support a change in Administration. Congratulations to all of the Candidates on Oct. 18, 2010 for supporting Strathmore to the best of their abilities. 

On a lighter note, I would like to propose a new bylaw that prohibits during election time the use of the words transparent and accountable. If you use either word you are fined $1 and if you use both in the same sentence you are fined $5. The money raised will build another ice rink. 

Thank you for your continued support.