BY-ELECTION HELD OCTOBER 20 - FULL RESULTS NEXT WEEK

Public forum draws strong community turnout

By Diana Walker

The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 208 and Big Country Agricultural Society hosted a public forum for candidates seeking the mayor’s chair and six council seats at the Legion on Oct. 16, continuing their tradition of community engagement.

Incumbent Mayor Doug Jones and challenger Terry Caron joined councillors Blake Hertz and James Walker, along with challengers Dustin Dick, Troy MacLean, Keith Munro, and Ann O’Connor. Incumbent Jack Hauck and newcomer Mark McCush sent their regrets.

Moderator David Eaton welcomed more than 80 attendees and introduced the speakers, who each had a maximum of five minutes to present their platforms. Timer Catherine Holland ensured the schedule was maintained.

Candidates expressed gratitude for collaboration with Special Areas and the MD of Acadia, and recognized the contributions of the RCMP detachment, volunteer fire department, and local medical professionals. All emphasized the importance of attracting a diversity of businesses and revitalizing the downtown sector.

Discussion focused largely on garbage collection, with speakers noting they were unaware of the extent of ratepayers’ concerns. Audience members also raised the need for greater transparency in town business, suggesting communication beyond the website or Facebook, such as mail-outs or coverage in the local newspaper. All questions and answers were respectful.

Eaton thanked the Legion for providing and setting up the venue, Kim Walker for the sound system, and attendees for coming despite a Blue Jays game. He also acknowledged the candidates for sharing their thoughts, concluding: “We are so fortunate to live in a country where we have freedom of speech and freedom of choice.”

Coffee and snacks were provided by Cynti Kolkman, Imogene Hauck, and Linda Bingeman.

Voting for mayor and six councillors took place at the Town Office Chamber on Monday, Oct. 20. Election results will be published in next week’s newspaper and will also be available on the town’s website and Facebook page.