Long time local Matthew MacDonald has joined Drayton Valley’s mayoral race in the upcoming municipal election.
Please provide a little background on yourself, including how long you’ve lived in the Drayton Valley area.
Born and raised in Drayton Valley and area — will be 50 years this September. I love the area, especially the outdoors. I am pretty open and straight forward. Decisions are based with an analytical mindset, I will question most things to ensure feasibility.
Why do you want to run for mayor?
A sense of civic duty and the fact that this is home. So I would like to make my home better for all of us.
What personal or professional experience do you have that you feel would make you a good mayor?
I worked in the oilfield for 23 years of which 13 years was consulting as a construction supervisor for various oil companies. Worked in a municipal setting for seven years as manager of transportation, which entailed maintaining over 2,000 km of gravel and around 240 km of paved roads. Also managed fleet and facilities, solid waste and recycling. Currently working in the forestry industry. Have been a volunteer firefighter in the past. Currently going on 11 years with Brazeau Regional Search and Rescue of which I have been president for the last six years and a search manager for four years. With search and rescue I am also part of a provincial operations group that responses to disasters around the province. With these roles I have gained the skills to work under pressure and to be financially responsible.
If elected, what would be your top priorities?
Fiscal responsibility, asset lifecycle management. Build a stronger sense of community. Increase efforts to spur volunteering. Pressure other levels of government to get more of our income tax dollars back in our community. A tougher but fair stance on the homeless encampments. Diversify our economy — we have enough food establishments, liquor and weed stores.
Where can people learn more about you and your priorities?
I will be posting on my Facebook page Matt For Mayor of Drayton Valley. If people wish they can also check out my LinkedIn profile to see my complete career background.
Anything you’d like to add?
Would be nice to see a few more individuals run for mayor and many more for council.
Visit our Municipal Election page for more information on the upcoming Oct. 20 municipal election.
MacDonald is running alongside current mayor, Nancy Dodds.
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