I am a third generation agri business, beef livestock producer and work alongside with my wife and family. Our business produces purebred Angus cattle that is marketed to local beef producers and other breeders across Canada and throughout the world. I was born and raised in Ponoka County on our family 100-year homestead.
My past council and business experience along with a common-sense approach allows me to effectively assess policies, question administration and seek accountability to determine a direction for future actions. This allows me to best represent the community and residents of the county. I have worked well with the other councillors and administration and have developed excellent relationships with neighbouring municipalities as well as our local MLA and MP.
I am vocal and passionate about the county, as well as a strong advocate of youth, community and volunteering. I was raised to believe in hard work, strong family values and reaching out to help others. My past years as a council member with Ponoka County have provided me with experience and a greater understanding of the issues that the county faces and the procedures of municipalities. I want to help our community to maintain its economic stability, grow and prosper.
Three of my main priorities for Ponoka County are:
1) Simplicity: A corner stone of Ponoka County is the small “G” governance model. Minimal administration and bureaucracy allow the residents and taxpayers to fully benefit from what the county has to offer. Keeping things simple and easy for residents to navigate the complex way of municipal policies and procedures is a necessity.
2) Revenue: With the majority of the county tax revenue generated by oil and gas, and the economic pressure that the industry is under, council must look for other avenues of funding to allow our tax rate to remain one of the lowest in Alberta. Economic business development, in conjunction with residential and agriculture, has proven to be a cumbersome issue. Balance is essential and I will continue to listen to our residents and work towards the benefits of all.
3) Services: County residents depend on the county for safe and dependable roads, bridges, snow removal, fire services, waste management and Ag Services. The demand for these services continues to grow with the increase in population, density and diversity in usage. Ponoka County is very fortunate, as the staff has proven to be very responsible, responsive and reliable.