Bryan Young may be, well young, but he already has years of political experience under his belt.
The 21-year-old was the youngest local candidate in the last provincial election and was the youth director of communications for the federal NDP.
“I am building a foundation for a future career in politics,” said Young, who has lived in Airdrie for his whole life and been involved in politics since he was 14.
“I watched the debates in 2004 election on TV and I was mesmerized by the passion of the candidates. I knew I wanted to be in politics. I got to see politics on a federal and provincial level and I would like to see how a municipal level works.”
The George McDougall graduate is the manager at West 49 in CrossIron Mills and is taking a year off from college to save money.
“One of the reasons I’d like to get involved is because of Airdrie’s youth problems,” he said.
“It is not a secret that Airdrie’s youth have little to do and some get involved in graffiti and vandalism. A curfew is not the answer, we have been going about it in the wrong way.”
He said he would like to see more youth involved in political matters.
“The turnout of youth at the council meetings involving the curfew and the lack of school space was impressive but there are other issues that effect them as well and they just aren’t interested,” he said.
Young would also like to see effective transportation in and out of the city, promote local businesses and create community pride.
“This is a great city but there is always room for improvement,” he said.
“It is a quiet city and we don’t have to worry about crime but we need to manage growth more effectively and we can’t neglect the planning that is required with that growth.”
Young said he is most looking forward to getting to know people in the community and speaking out for the issues they are passionate about.
He said he feels the most challenging aspect of the election will be his age.
“I know I’m young but I think I can bring some energy. I’m equipped to handle this challenge,” he said.
“I am very eager to learn and eager to fight for what I am passionate about. I want to be able to say I was a part of making Airdrie a great place to live.”
Young said his experience in provincial and federal politics has prepared him for this endeavour.
“I have taken an issue to heart and decided whether or not to vote on it,” he said.
“I can see both sides of the issue and put a lot of thought into it. I’m ready, I have the passion and I am ready to make that step in life towards a long life of politics. It is a chance to represent Airdrie, my hometown.”
