Vote Prosperity 2021
Vote Prosperity 2021
Building for the future
Informing the public about the candidates and their stances on the issues that matter most to our community.
The Framework
What is vote prosperity?
The platform was created so that you can become familiar with the issues our region is facing and see where local candidates stand on these issues.Â
Why is it important?
To ensure the 2021 municipal election addresses the most important issues for economic growth to build a strong and prosperous Southeast Alberta.
Our Recommendations to Build a Strong Foundation
- Advocate for the use of innovative and competitive strategies to benefit businesses and education in our region. Â
- Allocate time and funding to improve the infrastructure of the region. Â
- Create a plan to address the issues related to image and branding that may slow the growth in our region. Â
- Demonstrate a commitment to growing our workforce by promoting the use of professional development and talent attraction programs.
- Clarify taxation and regulatory rules and ensure equal opportunity for business growth after the financial recession and pandemic. Â
Want to learn more about how our region can promote economic prosperity in the future?
View our detailed recommendations in section 4 of the Economic Impacts, Outcomes and Opportunities for Southeast Alberta in a Post COVID Economy Report created from feedback of over 500 businesses in our region.
Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
The Medicine Hat & District Chamber of Commerce has a long-standing commitment to upholding the values of diversity, equity and inclusion. Our team, our members and our Board of Directors are people from countless different backgrounds, working together with the goal of building our community to be as vibrant and prosperous as it can be. Our team values and highlights the importance of underrepresented groups, especially in the business sector of Southeastern Alberta.
The Medicine Hat & District Chamber is always working to create a united front of business owners, Chamber members and staff, as well as active citizens in order to promote the values and benefits of a diverse and fair workplace. We are dedicated to promoting action and change through the application of crowdsourcing ideas, political advocacy, and public engagement. The path towards addressing workplace prejudice is one that needs participation from everyone, and the Medicine Hat & District Chamber of Commerce is proud to be addressing these issues directly.
2021 Municipal Elections
Election day is Monday October 18, 2021
Check out this FAQ to find our more about how to exercise your right to vote.
What are we doing?
- We created this handy Vote Prosperity Platform to help inform candidates about the issues that matter most to our community based on the feedback we received.
- We are interviewing each Candidate and sharing their interviews unedited. Available October 4, 2021
- We collected candidate information so that you can learn more about each candidate and reach out to them.
Municipal Candidates
Cypress County
Matthew Cole
Ward 2
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information:
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Robin Kurpjuweit
Ward 4
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information:
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Ernest Mudie
Ward 3
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information: Dustin.Vossler@cypress.ab.ca
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Della Burkitt
Ward 5
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information:
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Dan Hamilton
Ward 5
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information:
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Dustin Vossler
Ward 6
Bio: Dustin Vossler is 4th generation farmer/ rancher from The Seven Persons Area (ward 6) he has currently served 2 terms on Cypress County Council.
Platform:
Contact Information: 403 502 1834, Dustin.vossler@cypress.ab.ca
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Richard Oster
Ward 7
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information: (403) 529-7025
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Shane Hok
Ward 8
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information: (403) 504-9753
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Alf Belyea
Ward 9
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information: (403) 529-7025
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Medicine Hat
Linnsie ClarkÂ
Mayor Candidate
Tony Leahy
Mayor Candidate
Alan Rose
Mayor Candidate
Bio: I came to Medicine Hat 32 years ago to work at Alberta Gas Chemicals, then worked at the Empress Gas Plant. I stayed for 20 years, progressing from operator to management with project management and business development duties. My past personal business experience includes owning Hair Salons, Importing and wholesaling Electric Bikes, manufacturing and importing wholesaling electronics. My Community activities include coaching girls softball, little league baseball, and In-Line Hockey was a board member of the United Way and campaign chair in 2005. In 2005 I was the recipient of an Environmental Efficiency award from Natural Resources Canada.
Platform:Â alanrose.ca, Facebook - Alan Rose For Mayor
Contact Information:Â 4035270750, alanrose@shaw.ca
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Michael StarnerÂ
Mayor Candidate
Bio: Been studying politics since I was 10 years old. I go out in the community every December as Santa Mike and im an Author of 2 children's books. I enjoy spending time with my friends and family. I love my community and put all I have into helping those around me!
Platform:
Contact Information: Santamike99@gmail.comÂ
Ted Clugston
Mayor Candidate
Bio:Â
Platform:
Contact Information: mayor@medicinehat.ca
Kelly Gayle Allard
Councillor Candidate
Bio: I grew up on the West Coast, mostly the Lower Mainland where I met my late husband Carl. We moved to Redcliff in 1989 where his parents Joe and Lila lived. Carl and I moved to Medicine Hat in 1996. where we raised 4 children together despite many hardships - cancer, a serious MVA, health issues. We improvised, lived modestly and repurposed items. I worked various jobs and ran the household when he pipelined. I did the books for Carl when he was an O/O trucker; when the kids moved out I went with him as his swamper.Â
Platform: https://www.allard4mhcc.com/ FB - https://www.facebook.com/kelly4mhcc/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/allard4mhcc/
Contact Information: E-mail - allard4mhcc@telus.net Phone 403-526-4272
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Bill Bergeson
Councillor Candidate
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information:
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Mandi Lee Campbell
Councillor Candidate
Bio:I have lived in the Medicine Hat area for 20 years, I am originally from SW Saskatchewan. I am a realtor with RE/MAX, my husband of 18 years works in oil and gas. I have done lots of volunteering in the community such as the YMCA with their Get Active Program, I served as a board member of the Urban Parks and Recreation, I served on the nomination committee for the civic awards, and I am presently serving my second term on the Medicine Hat Police Commission. I am a proud citizen and I love our city.Â
Platform:
Contact Information: mandicampbell@gm76.ca 403-504-9681
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Stephen Campbell
Councillor Candidate
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information:
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Brian Dueck
Councillor Candidate
Bio: Brian has lived in Medicine Hat with his wife Holly for the past 16 years, adding 4 beautiful children to their family along the way. Professionally, Brian spent the last 3.5 years as a Facility Manager at CFB Suffield, responsible for maintaining and improving 150 buildings. He is actively involved in the faith community on a weekly basis. His passions related to running for council revolve around the issues of fiscal responsibility and public engagement on major decisions.
Platform: http://www.facebook.com/briandueckforcouncil
Contact Information: 403-458-2232, briandueckforcouncil@gmail.com, briandueck.wordpress.com
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Ramona Karen Robins
Councillor Candidate
Bio:Â I moved to Medicine Hat in 1998 to start my law career straight out of law school. I have worked as a Crown Prosecutor since 2002, became Chief Crown in 2009 and then Assistant Chief - Regional (a provincial role) in July 2021. I have twins who are 8 years old and my parents chose to retire here. I have participated the community extensively with Musical Theatre, Friends of the Library, Community Band, Medicine Hat Family Services, Highland Dance Association, Palliser Ethics Committee to name a few.
Platform: https://www.ramonarobins.com/
Contact Information:Â voteforramona@gmail.com
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Shane Gilmore
Councillor Candidate
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information:
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Bradley Gruszie
Councillor Candidate
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information:
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Cassi Hider
Councillor Candidate
Bio: https://www.cassihider.com/
Platform:
Contact Information: The public may reach me by Email, Website & Social Media
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Marco Jansen
Councillor Candidate
Bio: Marco Jansen’s extensive political experience includes policy development and board governance. He brought together people of diverse personalities and differing views to reach common goals provincially with the Alberta government as constituency president, and nationally with Unifor as a Shop Steward. He has been an air traffic controller for 30 years, Unifor shop steward for five years, and a constituency president for six years. Marco believes a healthy city requires robust and diverse business development and transparency in its governance. He believes in true representation. His vote will represent the will of the citizenry, not a personal agenda.
Platform: electmarcojansen.com
Contact Information: elect.marco.jansen@gmail.com
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Praveen Joshi
Councillor Candidate
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information:
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Allison Knodel
Councillor Candidate
Bio: I am a High School Teacher and Small Business Owner native to Medicine Hat. I care a great deal for humans and navigate life with a desire to help others, learn as much as I possibly can, and spend as much time as I can with my dogs.
I think Medicine Hat is an amazing place to live and there is nothing but potential in our community. If we can inject compassion, strategic innovation and an inclusive mindset into our leadership the sky is the limit.
Platform: www.knodel.city
Contact Information: knodel.city@gmail.com
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Roger McClary
Councillor Candidate
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information:
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Rockford Rutledge
Councillor Candidate
Bio: Local business owner seeking a seat on city council. My main goal it to attract new and diverse business to our city. Industrial development will not only increase tax revenue, but also provide much needed jobs for current and future residents.Â
Platform: www.voterutledge.ca
Contact Information: 403-878-0153, www.voterutledge.ca
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Shila Sharps
Councillor Candidate
Bio: Immigration Human Resources Professional with Sharp Immigration Solutions.
Platform:
Contact Information:
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Andy McGrogan
Councillor Candidate
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information:
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Jeremy Silver
Councillor Candidate
Bio: A proud single father of two school-age children Jeremy started a home-based business called IFIX Phones in 2010. A decade later the IFIX brand has expanded into one of the largest electronic repair stores in the region. In 2010 Jeremy and a group of like-minded individuals started what was to become the United Way Spirit of Christmas feast, 9 Christmases and counting! Jeremy has spent the last 4 years working within the downtown core in a leadership capacity. He wanted to earn the right to run for city council and didn't believe in accepting a single taxpayers dollar until he was qualified to do the job.Â
Platform: https://www.jeremysilver.ca/
Contact Information: 403-977-3766
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Charles Turner
Councillor Candidate
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information:
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
James (Jim) Turner
Councillor Candidate
Bio:Â Your Voice of Reason and Common Sense on City Council" Raised on a farm near Hilda, moved back to Medicine Hat in 1998 after being away for 30 years when we opened the Garden Market IGA Successful Entrepreneur and business person Married to Wendy, together we have 3 grown sons and 7 grand children.
Platform:
Contact Information: jimtur2013@gmail.com Phone 403-878-6241
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Alison Van Dyke
Councillor Candidate
Bio: Alison Van Dyke has been the Food Security Coordinator with Community Food Connections Association since 2013. Medicine Hat is both her hometown and community of choice, where she lives with her husband and two teenage daughters. In addition to food security, she is passionate about community advocacy work including public healthcare, education, and French language learning. Alison has served in a variety of board positions with Palliser Friends of Medicare, school councils and fundraising societies, Canadian Parents for French Medicine Hat, as well as four years on a provincial food security board, Alberta Food Matters.
Platform: alisonvandyke.caÂ
Contact Information: vandyke.medicinehat@gmail.com, 403-580-1003
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Justin Wright
Councillor Candidate
Bio: I am a local small business owner and community volunteer. My management career started here, and I have been fortunate to manage several businesses around this great province, but always resettled in the Hat. I started a small mental health support group to help those I could get pointed in the right direction for assistance. I was able to connect the group with guest speakers who could share their struggles with mental health and their learnings. I volunteer with MyCityCares, and coaching youth hockey. The skills I’ve learned will allow me to transition into a strong community-focused councilor role.Â
Platform:
Contact Information: www.wrightforcouncil.ca
wrightforcouncil@outlook.com
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Brian Webster
Councillor Candidate
Bio: A long time resident of Medicine Hat at an early age Brian decided to commit his life to public service. After graduating from Crescent Heights High School Brian took up training with the CFB Suffield Fire Department which would eventually lead him to a position with the Medicine Hat Fire Service (MHFD) and on to retiring as Deputy Chief and Support Services. Through out the decades Brian has not only been a dedicated frontline worker, but also a Husband and Father dividing his time to various community organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Medicine Hat Rotary Club, Medicine Hat Police Auxiliary and as minor league soccer coach. Since retiring in 2019 Brian has found many avenues to fill his time including spending time with his two amazing dogs, finally perusing his ambitions to play the guitar and as of recent making the choice to run for a seat on your City Council. Brian firmly believes that Medicine Hat is the best place in the world to live and has the best people.
Platform: https://www.brianwebster4council.com/
Contact Information: Phone: 403 502 7062 Email: briweb@shaw.ca Facebook: @vote4webster
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Brian Varga
Councillor Candidate
Bio:Â
Platform:Â
Contact Information:Â
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Phil Turnbull
Councillor Candidate
Bio: Business as my background. I came to medicine hat in 1980. I simultaneously operated three Canadian tire stores with two gas bars and handled land development activities. I was fully accountable for the success and failure of the businesses. We employed hundreds of people whose futures relied upon our success. I generated and studied weekly management reports to closely monitor the business to ensure success. I apply the same expertise in the business of the City. I am an informed, experienced and passionate councillor who will work with the council team to strengthen our city and services.
Platform: www.Facebook.com/philturnbullmh
Contact Information:403-526-3219, phitur@medicinehatca
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Warren Pister
Councillor Candidate
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information:
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Jay Hitchen
Councillor Candidate
Bio: Manager with Pattison Media 1990 thru 2014. I lead a very talented and creative team responsible for The Sandfly Music Festival, Annual Food Drive and Flood Relief Fundraisers and coverage. Upon retiring from broadcasting, we took over operations at The Cheesecake Café. I received a Civic Recognition Award in 2013 for Community Inclusion having coached Judo in Medicine Hat since 1991. President and Sensei of The Medicine Hat Judo Club from 1995-2017. Former VP of Finance with Judo Alberta. An avid cyclist, riding in The Great Cycle Challenge yearly. This year I was the GCC Champion for Medicine Hat.Â
Platform: https://www.facebook.com/JDH4YXH
Contact Information: email: jayhitchen@me.com Phone: (403) 548-4428 Social Networks: https://twitter.com/jayhitchen https://www.instagram.com/jdh4yxh https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-hitchen
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Darren Hirsch
Councillor Candidate
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information:
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Nicholas Martin
Councillor Candidate
Bio:
Platform: https://www.nicholasmartin.ca/
Contact Information: NicholasMartinForCityCouncil@gmail.com
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Jim Black
Councillor Candidate
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information:
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Robert Dumanoswki
Councillor Candidate
Bio: I'm a life-long passionate resident of Medicine Hat. My family moved here from Oyen AB in 1972 when I was one year old. I'm 50 years old now. My wife Pamela and I have been married for 26 years, and have 4 beautiful children (2 boys & 2 girls). I have 6 sisters and an identical twin brother. I've been employed by the Medicine Hat Catholic Board of Education for over 25 years as a teacher, Vice-Principal and as a Principal (for over 20 years). I hold a Bachelor of Education Degree from the University of Calgary and a Master of Arts Degree in Administration & Supervision from Gonzaga University. My family and I are members of Holy Family Catholic Parish. I'm extremely proud and honoured to have been serving the fine people of Medicine Hat on City Council as Alderman/Councillor since 2001.Â
Platform:
Contact Information: Phone: 403-502-4348 Email: robdum@medicinehat.ca Facebook: Robert Dumanowski Twitter: @rdumanowski1
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Mark Asham
Councillor Candidate
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information:
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Redcliff
Mark Payne
Mayor Candidate
Bio: Worked in Agriculture and oilfield for the last 20+ years, hard worker, family of 5 , been married for 23 years , animal lover, trustworthy,honest,dependable,
Platform:
Contact Information: Mark Payne for mayor Redcliff
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Ernie Reimer
Mayor Candidate
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information:
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Shawna Gale
Mayor Candidate
Bio: I have lived in Redcliff for over 25 years and am an active volunteer and business owner. I am married to Rob and together we have 4 children and 6 grandchildren and one great grandson. I was elected to Redcliff council in 2018 and in my term was involved with the Tri-Area Intermunicipal Development Plan and Intermunicipal Collaboration Framework. I am presently an active member of the Redcliff Lions and Gordon Memorial United Church Trustee. I have sat on the Redcliff Recreation board for over 11 years and helped plan and fundraise for many projects including the Redcliff Skate Park and Splash Park.Â
Platform: https://www.facebook.com/Shawna-Gale-for-Redcliff-Mayor-103612725375308
Contact Information: shawnag@recliff.ca (403)594-3190Â
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Dwight Kilpatrick
Mayor Candidate
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information:
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Cathy Crozier
Councillor Candidate
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information:
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Matthew St. Pierre
Councillor Candidate
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information:
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
William Ranger
Councillor Candidate
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information:
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Jim J. Steinke
Councillor Candidate
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information:
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Chris Czember
Councillor Candidate
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information:
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Larry Leipert
Councillor Candidate
Bio:
Platform:
Contact Information:
Recorded Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Written Interview: To be released October 4, 2021
Want to learn more?
Find out about how we advocate for our region throughout the year