Votes are in: Duffala named new councillor to Standard

Miriam Ostermann
Times Associate Editor

 

Emotions ran high and the village was buzzing on Monday evening as the majority of 93 ballots cast, unofficially elected Brandon Duffala as the new member to Standard’s bcouncil.
Duffala and opponent Elizabeth Nystrom hit the campaign train shortly after submitting their nomination papers on March 7, following the announcement of Councillor Ron Corbiell’s resignation.
Knocking on nearly every house in the village – with a population of 390 – Duffala believes investing the 20 hours of meeting the community contributed to the 63–27 results that landed in his favour – three additional votes were considered spoilt.
“We felt that I couldn’t ask the residents of Standard to put the effort into coming out to vote if I wasn’t willing to put the effort into going to visit them, and I believe that made a big difference to get the whole community involved,” Duffala said.
“The record turnout at the polls speaks to the degree of interest and participation in our community affairs. I remain committed to doing whatever is necessary to ensure all the best for the residents of the Village of Standard. There was a lot of community spirit involved and it was pretty amazing.”
The former commercial pilot, originally from British Columbia, was involved with volunteer work in the community for the past five years. This included helping design and build the float for the Standard Library for the Sports Day Parade. While he is still celebrating with his family, the 47-year-old is eager to get started in his new role.
“The election was great, everyone was really supportive, it was a really great experience and we had a ton of voters come out,” said Elizabeth Nystrom.
“It was fun and I think I’m going to run in the next election. Congratulations to Brandon and he’s going to make a great councillor.”
Duffala remained confident Nystrom will continue her community involvement and hopes to see her run for council in the future.
In appreciation for the hospitality and support shown by the community, which he said was heart-warming, Duffala and his wife Adreena are extending an open invitation to an informal Hot Dog Jubilee on April 10 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at 204 2nd St. West.
Official results will be posted at 12 p.m. on April 8 at the Standard village office.