Candidate profile: Jaelene Tweedle

Byelection hours on April 22 are from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Learn more here.

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1. Why are you the right candidate?

As a community, we’re left with the task of filling a role that was held by someone who was so much more than a councillor- in many ways Michael Dawe was Red Deer. As people head to the polls in our first ever by election, I believe I am the right candidate to take on this important job, and I humbly ask you to consider voting for me. Throughout my 16 years in Red Deer I’ve consistently demonstrated my commitment to supporting, fostering growth, and assuming leadership roles in initiatives that benefit our community. My goal is to leverage my experiences and insights to enhance the lives of all Red Deer residents, fostering a stronger, more inclusive community for generations to come. My decision to run for council is one I took very seriously, and was inspired most by my desire to make sure that all voices are brought to the table, when important decisions are made. Voter apathy is at an all time high, in great part because people feel like they aren’t truly represented by those who sit in the privileged space of elected office. It’s time to change that narrative, and time for people to know without a doubt that those they elect are there to Serve, and I believe I’m the candidate most committed to bringing about this change.

2. What personal priorities for the remainder of this council term do you want to highlight?

With only 18 months remaining in the term, it’s vitally important that the successful candidate show up ready and committed to work from day one. I have attended every city council meeting in the last two and a half months, and have been committed to furthering my knowledge. Spending countless hours over the last 7 weeks doorknocking and asking people what their top priorities are, so many citizens have shared their experiences and wisdom with me. Top of mind for many residents and myself, is the need for council decisions to reflect the best interests of all citizens, while valuing expertise, best practice, and a desire to pursue progress. I’m also committed to bringing more advocacy to the table, in dealing with other levels of government, as we have seen ever increasing downloading of costs and responsibilities onto municipalities. We’re continuing down a road that will only lead to further stagnation of levels of services, cutting of services, deterioration of infrastructure, and increases to taxes. I believe we also need to take a more concerted effort to bring a collaborative approach to dealing with complex issues that sometimes have groups isolated in their own “silos”- such as houselessness, affordable and supportive housing, mental health and addictions, and downtown recovery and revitalization. We all do better when we come together, and must pursue the path of Yes/And, rather than Either/Or. Our overall success as a community can only be achieved when all voices come to the table, and feel heard, valued, and respected in the decision making process.

3. To you, what makes Red Deer special?

Red Deer is a wonderful community, with a history that has much to be valued, respected, and learned from- it’s important to do so, while also planning for a vibrant future. And even though we are a city of 105,000 Red deer still has that small town feel. It’s almost impossible to head out to do a few errands without stopping to have a chat (or two) with folks you know. The feeling of community and connectedness that exists, is something to be built on as we bring all voices to the table to Build A Better City for All.

Your vote is your voice. Make your voice heard on April 22^nd.

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by Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

Candidate profile: Jaelene Tweedle

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