By Marianne Cole
Municipal Election
As you are all likely aware, the Municipal Election will be held on Monday, October 18, 2021. Consequently, this issue of the Beacon is featuring thoughts by our local candidates. A brief questionnaire was sent to each one and we send special thanks to the following candidates that submitted their replies. Regretfully we did not hear from Curt Maki in Division 3, Bob Bryant in Division 5, and Shane Nafziger in Division 6. As we are publishing all those we did receive, as they were written, this month’s Beacon is a bit longer than usual. We trust you will enjoy their comments and strongly urge you to pass on the information----and please remember to vote.
DIVISION 1 REPLIES
Introductions:
Genny Mehlhaff: It has been a pleasure to live in Clearwater County for almost 20 years and I love it here. I am a proud 5th generation farmer working with my husband on our ranch with our 4 children here in the beautiful eastern slopes. My rural roots have ensured I have a solid work ethic and sound family values. I have volunteered and worked in emergency services most of my life; starting in the fire service, a short period in law enforcement, and I am currently a part-time primary care paramedic. I look forward to the opportunity to use my knowledge, skills, and experience to ensure our community is prosperous and maintains our wholesome country lifestyles.
Nicole Stewart: I was born and raised in Rocky and am now raising my 3 children here in Division 1 of Clearwater County. My husband and I both run a small business. I started in Healthcare and now I own and operate a small center that provides a number of services to the public.
What prompted you to run for County Council?
Genny Mehlhaff: I have been interested in local municipal governance for quite some time. I started by getting involved with several municipal boards over the last several years including: Health Professionals Engagement team, Municipal Planning Commission, Land Care, and I currently chair the Ag Services Board. These experiences have provided me with a greater understanding of the roles and responsibilities of a Councillor. I feel that l is a great way to get involved with government on a direct level affecting out local community and microsystem at its core. I want to show my children that you can have a positive impact on your community in so many ways, and that getting involved is how you maintain our community’s strength and vitality. Whether it be volunteering for our local search and rescue team, 4H club, team sports, or governance, all parts of the system are needed for success.
Nicole Stewart: What prompted me to run was my passion for service to my division as well as a need for change and new perspective.
What is the most important issues you feel council needs to focus on in the next 4 years?
Genny: Council has an immense job and responsibility ahead. There is no sugar coating it: economical stability is a necessity. Financial responsibility and planning for the future are vital while understanding that solid agreements will solidify needed partnerships, ensuring our friends and neighbours needs are not only met but expectations exceeded. We need to complete the Municipal Development Plan and Land Use Bylaw in a way that makes sense to secure a clear path forward. The MDP and LUB are the framework for all land decisions and considering the diversity of the municipality that we all love so much. It is essential we get them right.
Thank you so much for the opportunity to answer your questions and as always, I look forward to an open dialog and welcome your insights.
Nicole: I think the most important issue is creating and maintaining healthy relationships with residents, other local governing bodies as well as other communities.
DIVISION 2 REPLIES
Introduction:
Hello, I am Sydney Graham and I am very pleased to introduce myself as a Division 2 Clearwater County Council candidate. I was raised a fifth generation farmer here in Clearwater County. I have deep roots in the county and I have always been very involved with our community whether it has been through 4-Hwhen I participated in the program or giving back through volunteering. While working for the county for a number of years and running my small business with my husband, I have had the opportunity to get to know all of the corners of our county and some of the wonderful people in it.
What prompted you to run for County Council?
My biggest inspiration to run for council is my late Grandfather, “Gerald Kujala. Watching him while I was growing up, being a hard working farmer who always took care of his family but also gave back to the community through his service has pushed me to want to do the same. In my years working for the county, I have developed such a fondness for our region and the people in it. I have also acquired knowledge and skills that would be a huge asset to have sitting on council. I want to create the best county possible.
What is the most important issue you feel Council needs to focus on in the next 4 years?
Although there are many important issues I believe council needs to focus on, my largest concern is rural security. Online I see daily, vehicles that have gone missing, attempted break and enters and much more criminal behaviour occurring. I would like to get back to a place where people don’t lock their door when they leave home and leave their keys in their vehicles. I believe that we need to dedicate more time and resources to improve the safety in our county for our families and businesses.
Introduction:
Cammie Laird. I am seeking re-election as your Councillor for Division 2. I value our community and the people; your viewpoints are appreciated, relevant and vital in defining opportunities for what really matters in building our shared future. Clearwater County has been our family’s home for over 18 years. I have learned much about the home I treasure, the amazing people who live and work here and the services we enjoy. I believe in lifelong learning and striving for constant improvement. My “Can Do” service attitude will continue to provide me with a firm foundation for building a bright future for all. What I offer is compassion, tolerance, dedication, commitment, hard work, and the ability to work with other collaboratively.
What prompted you to run for County Council?
I have had the privilege to represent Clearwater County for the past 4 years as your Division 2 Councillor and while it hasn’t always been easy, it has been extremely rewarding. We continue to face many challenges to meet the needs, without sacrificing the welfare of future generations. I would like the opportunity to continue that work and build a vibrant community together. I know I have what it takes to make a difference.
What is the most important issue you feel Council needs to focus on in the next 4 years?
County viability and sustainability. Understanding community needs and priorities and preserving necessary services will be more important than ever for Council to consider, with an uncertain tax base. Council will need to balance budget and needs, while managing precious resources with common sense solutions. We will need to consider reasonable approaches to preserving valuable agricultural landbase. With the completion of the Regional Governance Study and findings indicating that the County and the Village of Caroline should explore amalgamation, it will be vital for both municipalities to consider best methods to move forward. Furthermore, Council should be championing project that strengthen our community’s future and promoting healthy relationships with our neighboring municipalities so all can thrive.
Introduction:
Dick Wymenga. My wife and I live near Leslieville where we have a cow-calf and grain farm. We are community supporters by our involvement with the Leslieville Hall and the local Ag Society. We have been involved in many agricultural organizations including 4-H beef, Alberta Beef Producers, and Alberta Barley Commission. We have also been involved with the Educational Ag Tour that the Grade 4 students have taken as presenters for many years. This education of students is most important as they and their families have been removed from the farm for many generations.
What prompted you to run for County Council?
I believe Council needs to change direction on policy.
What is the most important issue you feel Council needs to focus on in the next 4 years?
I believe having accessibility to High Speed internet to all county residents at an affordable cost is important. Also renewing the Municipal Development Plan and protecting agricultural farm land is equally important. We need to renew a healthy working relationship with the town of Rocky Mountain House as well.
DIVISION 3 REPLIES
Introduction:
My name is Daryl Lougheed and I am seeking re-election in Division 3. I operate the family farm at Condor along with my wife Penni and daughter Grace. I live in the greatest place!
What prompted you to run for County Council?
Community service has been a huge part of my (and my family’s) life. The challenge of working with others to provide a better, safer, and more supportive community has remained a passion of mine throughout my lifetime. Serving on council has enabled me to continue this work at another level and understand more deeply how privileged we are to live here.
What is the most important issue you feel Council needs to focus on in the next 4 years?
I believe we need to continue to focus on economic development over the next 4 years. We all seek prosperity, security, the enjoyment of our lifestyle, and the strengthening of our safe community. Focusing on our pillars of agriculture, natural resources, and connectivity will be key in that endeavor.
DIVISION 4 REPLIES
Introduction:
My name is Naomi McNair and I am running for Division 4 County Councillor. Becoming a county councillor has been on my radar for almost five years. I have chosen to run in this municipal election because more and more I recognize the need for everyone to step up and do their part. I believe that I have the strengths, experiences, personality, and time to do this job well.
What prompted you to run for County Council?
As a councillor, my aims would be for open accountability, respectful dialogue, healthy growth and sound stewardship. I come with no specific agenda, but a desire to ensure that residents’ voices are heard, that wise decisions continue to be made and to see Clearwater County continue to grow, prosper, a further it reputation as a destination spot.
What is the most important issue you feel Council needs to focus on in the next 4 years?
There are always hot topics and areas of concern, and I look forward to hearing from division residents on how to address key issues and brainstorm together to find sustainable, healthy, and equitable solutions. If you have further inquiries, please contact me via email; gnmcmair@gmail.com.
Introduction:
My name is Jordan Northcott. I’m a life-long resident who grew up on a dairy farm in the Caroline area. Besides my passion for farming, I have worked all my life in the oilfield.
What prompted you to run for County Council?
The reason I decided to run for county council is that I’ve been disappointed with the elected people in all levels of government for a long time and have always thought that someone would come along and fix things in the government but no one has. I often think is this the best we have for people in federal, provincial, and municipal governments and in the past elections the candidates have sometimes won by acclamation. I’ done waiting and know I can do a better job!
What is the most important issue you feel Council needs to focus on in the next 4 years?
The most important things over the next four years will be to use common sense and try to ensure council makes responsible decisions.
Introduction:
My name is Tim Plante and I was born in Rocky and raised here and lived here most of my life. My family and I live on our farm between Rocky and Caroline where we raise our four daughters and run a small business dealing with septic trucks and steamers. I have experience while serving many boards and committees in and around our community. I was a paid on call firefighter for CRFRS for just over 6 years at Station 30 (Caroline).
What prompted you to run for County Council?
What prompted me to put my name forward for County Council in my division was simply: it’s time for change. I believe the broadband project is extremely important but where I cannot support it is fiber to the home is a horrid expense that we cannot afford. It would be a waste of our tax dollars to try and do that for every home in the county. Not to mention the technology sector changes so fast that by the time you get finished one thing it’s already outdated. Although I believe something needs to be done, I am in support of the backbone project and then localized towers and working with ISPs to get the serviced to all the homes in the county. I also think it’s going to take some new faces both on Town and County Council to try and get the relationship strengthened and as a team cooperating together again.
What is the most important issue you feel Council needs to focus on in the next 4 years?
Some of the hot topic items I think we are going to have to deal with this term is finalizing the Municipal Development Plan, seniors’ housing in Caroline area, and encouraging growth in the community. I believe our area should be not just an area people like to come and visit, but a place they would want to settle down and live and work as well. I believe that the approach the consultant took with the MDP was flawed in many ways but the main thing that I just cannot be content with is the chopping up and subdividing of good farmland. I see the need for more parcels of land in the future but the farmable land index number needs to come into play. It’s a lot different subdividing and chopping up land that is just Bush and Hills Pasture land than it is for perfectly good crop Fields.
I hope on October 18th everyone gets out and does their democratic duty. I would respectfully appreciate your consideration if you live in Division 4.
Introduction:
My name is John Vandermeer. I am a third generation Clearwater County resident with a broad background. I have lived and worked in the USA, Europe, and Asia before returning to my roots as a farmer northeast of Caroline. I bring planning, technical, operational, managerial, and relationship building skills to the role of Councillor for Division 4.
What prompted you to run for County Council?
My goal is to continue to work with you to make sure we have the best possible infrastructure and policies so you, your family, and your business can succeed.
What is the most important issue you feel Council needs to focus on in the next 4 years?
We need economic development, modern infrastructure, a workable land use policy, good relations with other municipalities and no tax increases.
Two important ingredients for economic development are developable land and quality, affordable internet service.
The negotiations with Caroline on amalgamation and Seniors’ housing need to be concluded as a win-win for everyone. Our relations with the town of Rocky Mountain House need to be enhanced and we will continue to work with other municipalities in central Alberta (Central Alberta Economic Partnership) to bring business and jobs to the area.
We can do what must be done with no tax increases to our residents.
I suggest a plebiscite offering citizens the opportunity to select the Reeve (Mayor) for a 4-year term. The rotating Reeve approach of the last 4a years has not served our community well. Consistency and relationships are important.
I ask for your vote on October 18th. Contact me at: (403) 844-9286 or email: johnvan@telus.net
DIVISION 5 REPLIES
Introduction:
My name is Nick Frank and I am running for Division 5. My formal education is in Recreation, Tourism, Community Development, Emergency Management and Public Security. I have been blessed to support volunteers in Nordegg with the transition of the outdoor recreation centre located at the community hall. This was completed through corporate donations, grants, and volunteer supports. I am a firm believer in community engagement and success through collaboration.
What prompted you to run for County Council?
Through volunteering on many community projects, I learned that there is a sizable disconnect between the needs and aspiration of taxpayers and the regional orientation of “Clearwater County. In addition, bad faith seems to have developed between Clearwater County and the local municipalities of Rocky Mountain House and Caroline. Finally, the relationship with the Government of Alberta has not been optimized. I want to use my skills in localizing needs assessment, maximizing local strengths, conflict resolution and negotiation to help realign these relationships. The goal would be to develop an environment that attracts investors, investor confidence and ultimately increases the tax base, allowing for services to increase while holding the line on tax assessments or possibly reducing taxes.
What is the most important issue you feel Council needs to focus on in the next 4 years?
There is an overarching need to balance the current strong regional approach of Clearwater County with investing in local community strengths. This larger goal could be approached through balancing the strong existing bureaucracy with attention to local needs, and through balancing excessive regional control with partnering to create opportunity. This rebalancing would stimulate prosperity for Clearwater County. Contact: Phone: (403) 506-7744. Email: nickfrankdivision5@gmail.com website: https://nickfrankdivision5.ca/ Facebook; https://www/facebook.com/NickFrankClearwaterCounty
Introduction:
My name is Neil Ratcliffe and I am running for Division 5. We moved here 20 years ago after a career in oil and gas telecommunications. My abilities as a trouble shooter and problem solver have served me well. Participation in the Ferrier Community as well as CPAC and Crime Watch strengthened my conviction on the importance of strong communities.
What prompted you to run for County Council?
People who know my capabilities and recognized my dedication as a community builder convinced me that more could be accomplished from being on Council.
Individual counsellors have very little power on their own. I encourage people to look for someone who creates consensus rather than conflict. Councillors should feel an obligation to serve the communities’ interests over their own. They should be approachable, open minded and seek other opinions instead of making decisions based only on their own experience. They should work for the common good and stand up for it when they must. Accountability is important.
What is the most important issue you feel Council needs to focus on in the next 4 years?
My decision to run for County Council is not about me. It is about the long term sustainability and quality of life in our Community. With Covid measures in place, I have enjoyed talking to a lot of people about their concerns. They tell me that the two most important issues are broadband and spending. I will devote most of my energies there but also to appropriate development in the West Country. I can be reached by e-mail at neilr4div5@gmail.com or by phone at (403)845-5745.
DIVISION 6 REPLIES
Introduction:
My name is Bryan Cermak. I was raised on a farm in Clearwater County and have worked in the oil and gas industry until my retirement. We now reside on a farm in the Crammond area.
What prompted you to run for County Council?
I’m a strong believer in government transparency and accountability and if elected I would do everything in my power to ensure the best interests of all residents of Clearwater County are being met.
What is the most important issue you feel Council needs to focus on in the next 4 years?
I want the County to remain sustainable for future generations and with the down turn in the economy and oil industry it will be difficult to do. We need to balance the budget without dipping into reserves.
Introduction:
My name is Tim Hoven and I have lived in Clearwater County on our family farm for almost all my life. My wife, Lorianne, and our children have been farming full-time since 1996. I am passionate about agriculture and growing healthy soils on our farm. We have been selling our beef direct to consumers for over 20 years. Our farm has been in the family for over 110 years and we hope to have future generations of the Hoven family continue the farm.
What prompted you to run for County Council?
I am running for Council because I want to make sure that this place we call home is in good shape for future generations. I hope that one of my children wants to take over the family farm and I am doing my part to make sure that the county stays in good financial health, provides good, adequate services to residents, and keeps our taxes as low as possible.
What is the most important issue you feel Council needs to focus on in the next 4 years?
The biggest immediate issue for the County is the proposed Fibre to the Home internet plan. Fibre to the Home internet has the potential to cost the county upwards of $120-140million dollars as it puts the fibre network in the ground. This has the potential to drain the reserves that the county has spent 30 years building up. The draft business plan that was prepared a few years ago showed that this project could lose money every single year that it is operating and never be profitable. As new technologies are invented, such as satellite internet companies like Starlink and its future competitors, the fibre to the home project will be unable to compete as the network is far too costly to build and operate for a county the size of Clearwater County. This could be the biggest waste of money in the history of the county.
DIVISION 7 REPLIES
Introduction:
Hello Clearwater County friends and neighbors. My name is JoLynn Bradshaw and I am running for Division 7 Councillor. As a 28-year resident of Clearwater County who loves our large and beautiful home, I want to serve my fellow residents by getting to know their concerns and representing them in Council.
What prompted you to run for County Council?
My desire to run for County Council was sparked by this question to myself, “What can I do with my time that will best serve the people in my community and put me in a position to bring positive things into the lives of the people here?” I believe sitting on Council will enable me to do just that.
What is the most important issue you feel Council needs to focus on in the next 4 years?
In listening to the residents, which I will hold as top priority if elected, I am hearing that the issues of the Municipal Development Plan and broadband are their major concerns at present. If elected, it would be my mandate to gather the information and represent what the majority wishes are on these matters and all concerns of the people who make their lives in Clearwater County.
Thank you folks for reading about all the candidates and helping to build our community.
Introduction:
My name is Michelle Swanson and I’m proud to say Clearwater County has been my family’s home for the last 16 years. I’m a local farmer, host “on-farm” stays and I’ an enthusiastic community volunteer. I am seeking re-election for Division 7 Councillor.
What prompted you to run for County Council?
For the last four years, I have been dedicated, and remain committed, to working hard on building a better future for the residents in Clearwater County. I accept the continued accessibility and accountability for keeping all constituents informed through honest conversations and advocating for your priorities in council with fairness and respect.
What is the most important issue you feel Council needs to focus on in the next 4 years?
The increasing attractiveness of our region will continue to bring added demands for a variety of developments. The balance between economic growth and protecting rural livelihoods (agriculture and agri-business) will need up-to-date guiding policies while ensuring the fiscal sustainability of our county is not compromised for future generations.
It’s been my privilege to serve all constituents in Clearwater County. To contact me, call (403) 844-3222. Email: swansonrockymtn@gmail.com Or FB page: Clearwater County Division 7 Candidate Michelle Swanson.
COMING EVENTS:
Wednesday, October 20, 2021, 7:30PM, Arbutus Community Hall, Regular Monthly Meeting;
Wednesday, November 17, 2021, 7:00PM, Arbutus Community Hall Annual General Meeting
