And then there were three.
With three and half months until voting day on Oct. 18, a third candidate has registered nomination papers for Airdrie City council’s upcoming municipal election.
Lore Perez, an Airdrie resident since 2016, joins Mark Steffler and Reggie Lang in the race for council seats. A former director with Volunteer Airdrie Society, Perez said she was motivated to run for council after a series of individual successes last year.
“I took the opportunity to continue developing myself and became a certified life coach during the pandemic,” she said. “At the same time, I got nominated for [the Amazing Airdrie Women Awards]. Those little things were telling me something – that I could do more and was causing an impact in people’s lives.”
Perez said her platform centres on developing improved amenities and opportunities for Airdrie’s youth, as well as ensuring residents are aware of the supports and resources available to them from local non-profit groups. Her campaign website states her other priorities are to advocate for a seasonal outdoor pool and post-secondary institution, as well as help plan for better public transit infrastructure.
“I think we’re growing so fast,” she said. “I do realize housing is important, but we do want to grow properly and make sure there are enough amenities and activities. What is there for our citizens to stay and be happy in Airdrie? Let’s make sure transportation is properly developed so we can grow properly.”
If elected, Perez said she would also be a strong advocate when it comes to voicing the need to the Province for a local hospital in Airdrie.
“I know that’s not in our hands, but how can we advocate for it?” she said. “I know I’m not going to be by myself if I’m elected and I think it’s important to have a strong team following the same path so we can make this work.”
A certified psychologist, Perez said her volunteering experience and the connections she’s formed with community organizations in Airdrie since moving to the city five years ago make her an ideal council candidate. Originally from Mexico, she has a master’s degree in education, and is working to be certified as a teacher in Alberta.
She was involved with the Volunteer Airdrie board of directors from 2017 to 2020, when she stepped down due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, she added she is still an ardent volunteer and has been involved with putting on many local events over the years, including the Airdrie Santa Claus Parade, Airdrie Festival of Lights, local highway clean-ups, Airdrie Children’s Festival, airdrieFEST, the Boo at the Creek Halloween event, and others.
“Once you become a volunteer, it’s there in your heart,” she said. “It’s not that I don’t do it anymore – I still volunteer at certain events when it’s needed. Regardless of title, I’ll always be there to volunteer in the city.”
Perez said she encourages voters to check out her website – votelore.ca – and reach out to her if they have any questions or input.
Scott Strasser, AirdrieToday.com
Follow me on Twitter @scottstrasser19
