Red Deer First candidate Janella Spearing says it was her father who instilled a love of politics.
Now that the timing is right, Spearing is following a dream rooted in her youth.
“My Dad was very passionate about politics so we had several very heated conversations about government at all levels in our home growing up,” said Spearing, who was born and raised in Estevan, Sask. “So I think it is probably his responsibility about why I am here today.”
On Monday, Spearing, 50, announced plans to run for Red Deer city council. Improving safety and maintaining infrastructure are high on her priority list.
Spearing said she wants to improve the spending in the city’s budgets and to listen to the needs of the residents.
“I have this saying as a mom, ‘You don’t buy a bottle of champagne if there isn’t milk in the fridge,’ ” said the mother of two.
She said people are owed the opportunity to know where money is going and how it is being spent.
Spearing said she has a “common sense” approach and she would strive to be accountable and transparent if elected. She said her strengths are in budgeting and being a people person.
Spearing has worked in finance and on various committees and fundraising campaigns.
“At this point personally it is the right time in my life,” said Spearing.
“I am fed up right now with the overspending of our tax money. I just think there is extravagant spending that is going on in the city, culturally wise.”
Spearing has worked as a dental assistant, a bookkeeper and an office administrator. She stayed at home for 19 years to raise her family.
Spearing has lived in Red Deer for 12 years with her husband and two sons, aged 15 and 18.
“I am just an everyday person just like them,” said Spearing.
“I am involved in the community. I think I know their needs. I am passionate about them being heard.”
Also in the running for council are newcomers 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.
crhyno@www.reddeeradvocate.com