Stagnation is the primary challenge Red Deer is currently facing, says byelection candidate Chad Krahn.
“We seem to be caught in the status quo, despite the growth seen across the rest of Alberta. Rising taxes and limited progress are becoming the norm, and sticking to the same old approaches just won’t cut it anymore,” Krahn said ahead of April 22’s byelection to fill a vacant seat on city council.
“Change is essential. We need to tackle the bureaucratic barriers that are holding back our growth. Cutting through red tape and updating our business practices can unleash Red Deer’s untapped potential.
“The future of Red Deer depends on our collective dedication to progress. We need to focus on unlocking our city’s potential and strive for a brighter future.”
Krahn is constituency manager for Red Deer-South MLA Jason Stephan, but has stepped away from his role while campaigning. He currently serves as a board director for political advocacy for the Alberta Foster and Kinship Association, and is a director for the Highland Green Community Association. He’s also a former president of the Riverside Meadows Community Association, and former executive director of Common Sense Red Deer.
The role of a municipal politician is to be “a champion for the city’s potential and the fiercest advocate for what the city needs to become,” Krahn said.
“This is the grand role but we also must never lose sight of the important day to day details,” he said.
“The primary responsibility of a municipal politician is to effectively manage the essential functions of municipal government. Councillors must ensure core services are provided to residents while being mindful of taxpayers’ dollars. Municipal politicians act as the voice and representation of their constituents, advocating for policies and initiatives that address community needs and concerns.”
Krahn, a husband and the father of five children, two of whom are foster children, ran for council in the 2021 municipal election, where he finished with the ninth-most votes – the top eight earned a seat on council.
“Red Deerians don’t want drastic changes or cuts to services,” said Krahn.
“I love to ask: ‘What is the next simple thing we can do to make our city better?’ By doing this, great ideas will emerge. This will involve actively seeking input from frontline staff, valuing their perspectives as catalysts for change.
“At the same time, we must embrace a mindset of ambitious growth. The future of Red Deer depends on our collective dedication to progress.”