The number of candidates vying for eight seats at the council table has swelled again, with a local business owner joining the crowded field.
Jonathan Wieler, 27, has lived in Red Deer most of his life and owns City Motion Fitness in Red Deer.
He is married and has four kids.
“Red Deer is the city that built me,” said Wieler. “I’ve lived here most of my life. Through my business and my role as a councillor I want to build everyone up around me and I want to give back to the community.”
For Wieler, the decision to run for council all came together when family and friends encouraged him, something that had been ongoing, but came to a head in the run up to the Oct. 21 municipal election.
“I have a lot of values that I think could benefit Red Deer,” said Wieler.
“I advocate a people-centred approach to urban design, to business, public services and all aspects of city governance. I believe it is about enabling everyone to fully enjoy a healthy and meaningful life.
“It’s about improving public safety, equitable access to education and employment, making transportation in the city accessible to everyone and making Red Deer a place where people love to live and want to stay.”
He said his values include economic prosperity, fiscal responsibility, environmental stewardship, community building, sustainable growth and social responsibility.
“It is important to maintain the values that built this city,” said Wieler. “Namely a strong sense of community, a culture of enterprise and a kinship for environmental stewardship.”
Wieler is hosting a forum on Aug. 17 at his business, City Motion Fitness, 5116 48th St., starting at 6 p.m.
Communication is also key to Wieler’s campaign, he can be accessed through Twitter: @Wieler4RD, Facebook and a website www.jwreddeercitycouncil.ca.
Also in the running for council are other newcomers Janella Spearing, Ken Johnston, David Helm, Serge Gingras, Tanya Handley, Troy Wavrecan, Darren Young, Lawrence Lee, Calvin Goulet-Jones, Bob Bevins and Matt Chapin, and incumbents Paul Harris, Dianne Wyntjes, Lynne Mulder and Buck Buchanan.
Mayor Morris Flewwelling is not seeking re-election. Coun. Cindy Jefferies, William Horn and Chad Mason are running for mayor.
mcrawford@www.reddeeradvocate.com