CARSTAIRS - Incumbent Carstairs councillors have outlined their respective plans for the Oct. 2025 municipal election.
The nomination period for this year’s election runs until Sept. 22.
Mayor Lance Colby says while he does not plan to see a seventh term as mayor, he is weighing the possibility of running as a councillor.
“I will be stepping down as mayor but I am considering running for council,” Colby told the Albertan. “I believe it is time for another person to take the leadership as mayor.
Coun. Sheldon Ball said he is planning to seek re-election.
“Carstairs is a rapidly growing community and there are a few issues that I would like to work on in the next term,” Ball said. “Specifically the need for a new police detachment in town and a contract for policing within the community.
“As well there is still a need for a new seniors lodge facility in town and some major infrastructure development that includes a second water reservoir to accommodate our growth.”
Coun. Dean Allan says he plans to run for mayor in October.
“I do plan on running in October again, I plan on putting my nomination papers in probably close to the summer,” Allan said.
“I have not really announced anything as of yet, but I do plan on putting my name forward to become the new mayor with Lance (Colby) stepping away from the position.
“Some of the key issues/projects for Carstairs is working with the RCMP to get a detachment in town, building the new water reservoir and working on getting a new seniors housing facility.
“I want to make sure that we maintain sustainable development including getting more industrial/commercial in town. As we grow, we know it will happen.
“I have been fortunate to be on strong councils over my time as an elected official and we have made great strides for the benefit of Carstairs and its residents and I would like that to continue.”
Coun. Angie Fricke said she also will be seeking re-election.
“As we look ahead, my primary focus will be on the continued planning and sustainable growth of our community,” Fricke said. “Given that Carstairs is one of the fastest-growing communities in Alberta, it is essential that we manage this development thoughtfully and strategically.
“Additionally, I will prioritize the establishment of a local RCMP detachment to enhance public safety and strengthen community policing.” Another key initiative for her “will be advocating for the development of a new seniors’ facility, ensuring our Senior’s population has access to the care and services they need. Furthermore, I will place a strong emphasis on expanding recreational opportunities, which are vital to the well-being of all residents.”
Coun. Marty Ratz says he is “about 80 per cent sure” he will run again in 2025.
Key issues for him in the new term would be policing and seniors housing, he said.
Coun. Shannon Wilcox says she plans to seek a third term.
“I look forward to seeing the completion of key projects such as the RCMP detachment, the water reservoir, and the much-needed seniors’ facility,” said Wilcox.
“I remain committed to advocating for increased provincial funding to support our local infrastructure needs, while also prioritizing youth programming and opportunities, as well as expanded recreational facilities for all residents.
“As we experience rapid growth, it is essential that we continue to manage this thoughtfully and responsibly.”
Carstairs’ small-town charm is “defined not by its size but by the strength and heart of its community,” she said.
Coun. Jerry Roberts says he plans to seek another term.
He said topics he would like to address if re-elected include, “a police detachment for Carstairs which we now require, water supply including the regional water commission and the new reservoir we are building in Carstairs, housing requirements across all age groups, and infrastructure planning.”
