After nine years sitting on council, Doug Gill is taking a shot at the big chair.
The three-term Ponoka town councillor said he thinks he can provide the leadership needed in the Central Alberta community.
Gill, 67, retired from his career as a teacher and administrator with the Wolf Creek School Division in 2001 and was first elected in 2004.
During those nine years on council, he said he learned a lot about what it takes to run a town.
“I learned the importance of trying to engage the people,” said Gill, adding other important qualities in a councillor or mayor are to stay optimistic, proper budgeting and reducing the reliance on grant money.
“That’s drying up.”
Gill is the second candidate to announce intentions to run for mayor. Fellow Coun. Rick Bonnett announced his candidacy in May.
The deadline to file is on Sept. 15.
Gill said he announced now in order to get his name out and so anyone else considering running knows what they are up against.
Current Ponoka Mayor Larry Henkleman won the chair by acclamation the past two elections, in 2007 and 2010. The last time Ponoka had a race for mayor was in 2004.
Henkleman has not announced his decision for the coming municipal elections.
“When you get in by acclamation, it tells you one of three things,” said Gill. “You’re doing a good job, nobody wants it or they could care less.”
Gill said he thinks Ponoka could be one of the most beautiful, positive communities in Central Alberta.
“We need to change the way we think about our community,” said Gill. “There are some negatives out there. This is something that will not cost any money, it’s just a coming together of the community.”
Downtown revitalization and growth of the community are also important issues for Gill.
“I just thought Ponoka deserved a choice,” he said. “I like my chances against anybody that puts their name forward.”
mcrawford@www.reddeeradvocate.com