Each week in the lead up to Crossfield's Town council byelection Oct. 19, the Rocky View Weekly will ask the candidates a question that could impact voters. Each candidate has been given a maximum of 250 words to respond.
This week, we asked: Whoever is elected to council will have a one-year term before the next municipal election in 2021. If elected, how will you make an impact in your one year on council?
Kim Harris
My more than 20 years of experience as a municipal employee will help guide me when making council decisions. The biggest impact, aside from listening and having conversations with residents, will be to hold myself accountable, be transparent, adhere to the Municipal Government Act (MGA), policy and council's code of conduct. My goal is to build great relationships, make solid decisions that are best for the development of Crossfield and to be a councillor that works hard in a positive manner for Crossfield residents. I want you to be comfortable and proud that I will be a sincere, impactful ambassador for our town – at meetings, events, in town and when representing Crossfield at engagements with other municipalities and various levels of government.
Jo Lambert
In my conversations with Crossfield residents, there is a perception that things are being hidden by Town council and administration. If elected to Council, I hope to mitigate this by ensuring our local government is abiding by the rules and regulations set out by the MGA, Crossfield’s policies and bylaws and other legislation. Encouraging an open dialogue in public council meetings will also assist in assuring our residents and ratepayers that proper protocols are being followed.
In the upcoming year, many decisions will be made by council that will impact the future of our town. Strategic planning, for example, is an important process that sets plans and goals to guide us towards maintaining a strong, viable and safe community. With the complication of uncertain funding from higher levels of government, this planning and other decisions – such as setting multi-year operating and capital budgets – will have to be made with a balance of fiscal responsibility and creative thinking.
Teamwork will be essential.
Editor's Note: Justin Gustafson did not respond to this week's question before press time.
