THE BATTLEFORDS — As the municipal election approaches, the News-Optimist will profile each candidate in the Battlefords over the next few weeks. We’ve reached out to all candidates to answer four key questions to help you get to know them better:
- Can you tell us about yourself?
- Why did you decide to run for the election?
- What differences are you hoping to make in the community if elected?
- Why should people vote for you?
The answers are lightly edited for length, but otherwise appear as the original submission.
City Councillor Candidates
Warren Williams
I have been a business owner, an employee, and a community champion throughout Saskatchewan cities during my 50-year career.
I have served as a board member and President of your Battlefords Chamber of Commerce and am 2-time President of Rotary Club of the Battlefords. I was honoured to serve as Co-Chair of Rotary’s 100 years of service above self in The Battlefords.
Currently I work for Bralin Technology Solutions and serve as President of the Board of Directors for North Battleford Golf & Country Club and as a Director for Rotary.
I listen, and I am making a commitment to: Developing Economic Opportunities to grow our city; Advocating for the citizens in North Battleford and addressing their concerns; Find productive solutions for serious social issues.
Dennis Mercer
For the better part of 50 years, Dennis Mercer has called North Battleford home. It is where he and his wife, Bonnie, have raised their five children and where he spent 25 years teaching at John Paul II Collegiate.
From coaching various school and community sports teams and facilitaing extra curricular activities, to involvement with the Battlefords' Sailing Club and social justice concerns, Mercer has earned a reputation within the community for his willingness to go the extra mile.
With his recent retirement from teaching, and his children now grown, Mercer says, "I have the time now to do something I've long been inclined to do; to contribute to our community on a municipal level.Should I be elected, I hope to support efforts to enhance the community's social and recreational programming." Something Mercer hopes to accomplish is the nurturing of a more positive public image of North Battleford.
"I think my experience as an educator lends itself to service as a Councillor to the city. The responsibility of a teacher is really to meet the needs of every student in the classroom. As a Councillor I can't just focus on the needs of my own neighbourhood or my personal interests. It's more about meeting the needs of the whole city."
Dan Suberlak
I am a born, raised and lifelong resident of North Battleford. I am retired after 32 years of employment in various departments with the City. Along with my wife Candace, children and 3 dogs enjoy calling NB home.
In the years that I have worked for the city, I have seen and been a part of many projects and developments. I am very proud of the hard work put into the bettering of our community and would like to see a renewed effort in bringing back the place North Battleford once was. Many services once provided are no longer provided or at a reduced capacity. I have also had the honour of representing the city on the provincial, national and international levels in powerlifting. North Battleford and its residents were very supportive of me and I would like to give something back.
I feel my 32 years of service with the city (in Plants, Parks, Waterworks and Arenas) gives me a ground level perspective of the operations of the city. I am well aware of where our aging infrastructure needs improvements to keep a safe quality of life for our citizens. I believe we need a strong unified council with a loud voice in addressing our issues with higher levels of government.
We need an administration that is accountable to the public with a council that is knowledgeable in the operations of the city; and a council that will question administration on why we need to do things and that we are doing it at the best cost to taxpayers.
Alan Wiese
I am a 38-year-old husband, father, and business owner. I enjoy spending my free time doing pottery, martial arts, and spending time with my family. I am an active coach and member of BYSI soccer, and volunteer my time at my kids school.
I want to be part of the team that will potentially bring our city to the level it deserves to be at, I was also drawn to run by my want/need to know how things operate. I am a very curious person and want to know the ins and outs of how a city functions behind the scenes.
I hope I can make North Battleford more appealing for youth (young families and singles) to want to stay in the community and raise their families. Also I want to be a part of any solutions or ideas we can come up with to help make the lives of our homeless population better.
With the average age of North Battleford being 39 years old, I know what that age demographic wants, alongside with what their children may need. I have a great ability to see all angles of a situation and to hear everyone out before making a decision. And with my extensive background in construction and as a business owner, I solve problems, make the hard decisions, and ultimately making the vast majority of people happy.
Kent Lindgren
I was elected to City Council in 2016 and re-elected in 2020 and work as a health director with Battle River Treaty 6 Health Centre. I grew up in North Battleford, and after completing my education at the University of Saskatchewan, returned home to start a career. In my work, and time on Council, I have strived to address critical issues in North Battleford, seeking creative solutions and working to empower community members. I believe that until we address the reasons behind our challenges, we will never be able to make the transformative changes needed.
Areas of focus for me in the next term, include community well-being, and economic innovation. Key work I believe is needed include updating the Community Plan, including a review of bylaws and zoning pertaining to community and business development, reducing City debt, and setting effective tax rates that match with community members desired service levels. Reducing city debt is important so we can plan for large-scale infrastructure work like utility system upgrades and a possible new arena.
To address community well-being, I believe the City should work with non-profits, industry, and businesses to create low income housing for in-fill lots, introduce a community Well-being index, to highlight a strength-based model, building solutions out of the positive things happening in our community and create and implement a City Sustainability Plan with actionable items including assisting businesses, agencies, and people to better implement sustainable initiatives into their lives.
Thomas (Bill) Ironstand
My commitment to North Battleford:
I am a lifelong resident of North Battleford, I am deeply invested in the growth and prosperity of our community.
I will seek re-election to continue using my voice and lifelong experiences to advocate for all residents of North Battleford. In creating a safe and prosperous community.
Active Listening - committed to ensuring every resident is heard and their concerns are addressed.
Championing Local Services - Dedicated to working for the people of North Battleford. I will ensure local service and product providers have fair opportunities to serve our community and that the city buys goods and services at the best prices while cutting frivolous spending.
Greg Lightfoot
I was first elected to represent the City Council in 2012. In that time I have always been approachable to discuss concerns or even ideas for growth and sustainability.
Brenda and I have lived in the Battlefords for more than 37 years, raising both our daughter and son here. We absolutely love this community and will retire here and continue to call the Battlefords home. Our two children also work in the Battlefords and are raising their children in this community, as well.
Both Brenda and I grew up with an agricultural background so we know the value of hard work and dedication. Brenda retired after 30+ years as an educator and really enjoyed her time with the Living Sky School Division. My first career I worked in the construction/electrical industry for 12 years which gives me excellent insight into the infrastructure and public works areas of our community along with the cost and budgeting for these assets.
Now, I am a Senior Wealth Advisor and owner of Hein Financial Group for the past 25+ years. With this background I feel I can continue to add valuable knowledge and insight to help North Battleford continue to be a great place to live, work and play.
Our family is proud to call North Battleford home, and we will continue to be great ambassadors for this community. My commitment is financial accountability, keep taxes as low as possible, maintain a balance between growth and infrastructure replacement and continue to work with all levels of government to make our city a safe and beautiful place to call home.
Donald Meriam
I am a proud two-spirit individual born and raised in North Battleford; an activist, ambassador, recipient of the Queen Elizabeth Platinum Jubilee Medal, and a UNICEF Canada Youth Advocate. I have worked with organizations & charitable causes over the years including serving as Battlefords Pride Patron, Proud of Pride Vice President, and worked alongside Paws Republic, Acahkos Awasisak - Star Children, and the University of Saskatchewan's archives.
I have met many influential people who have inspired me to continue my work – particularly former Premier Brad Wall and those of our community members, who motivated me to make a meaningful impact in our community. If elected:
I am committed to actively engaging with our community by organising annual meetings where constituents can voice their concerns and ideas; I will focus on enhancing the economic development of our city by creating a growth plan that supports growth & development. By prioritizing infrastructure improvements, I hope to attract new businesses, enhance property values and create job opportunities for residents. My goal is to foster a thriving community where residents feel secure, connected and empowered to participate in local initiatives. I aim to enhance accessibility for everyone, making it easier for individuals to navigate the community, whether they are driving, biking or walking. I will be proactive in addressing crime effectively by implementing preventive measures, increasing policing, advocating support for victims, collaborating with local organizations and utilising crime data to identify hotspots and trends.
Some people think I’m too young to run for office, but I believe with me being young that brings a unique perspective that is often overlooked. Young leaders such as myself can approach problems with fresh ideas and innovative solutions.
I’m passionate about issues that directly impact my generation and the future. My energy and enthusiasm can help engage more people in the political process. It’s important to have diverse voices in leadership, including those of younger individuals.
Experience is valuable, but so is the ability to connect with younger constituents. I’m committed to listening, learning, and growing in this role. Ultimately, it’s about the vision and dedication I bring, not just my age.
Mercy George
I am a passionate community advocate and small business owner who has proudly called North Battleford home since 2004. My diverse background and commitment to serving families and local entrepreneurs fuel my dedication to enhancing our city.
I decided to run for election because I believe in the potential of North Battleford and want to contribute to making it a safer and more prosperous place for all residents. My experience in the community has shown me the areas where we can improve, and I want to be a part of the solution.
If elected, I will focus on community safety through community safety initiatives, supporting local business with resources and programs, and revitalizing downtown to attract residents and visitors. I aim to foster collaboration among community members, business and local organizations to achieve these goals.
People should vote for me because I bring a unique perspective as a mother and business owner, along with a genuine passion for our community. My commitment to listening to residents and my vision for meaningful change will ensure that every voice is heard and valued in our city’s future.
Darryl Williams
I have been a lifelong resident of the Battlefords and have enjoyed the community and all it has to offer. For the past 35 years, l've been self-employed, continuing a legacy that began in my family's retail hardware store, where I grew up learning the values of hard work and integrity. I am excited to share my platform as a candidate for city counsellor with you.
My vision for our community is rooted in transparency, inclusivity, and sustainable progress:
- Community Engagement: I believe that everyone's voice matters. I plan to attend and contribute to regular city hall meetings to ensure that the community is informed and involved in decision-making processes.
- Sustainable Development: I will support a healthier environment. I will advocate for green spaces and smarter waste management systems.
- Public Safety and Wellness: A safe and healthy community is paramount. I aim to strengthen collaboration between local law enforcement and community organizations to ensure a safer environment for all. I will review and restructure the Community Safety Officer program to support local police suggesting 'sundown to sun up shifts', to bolster security of the community.
- Economic Growth: Supporting local businesses and attracting new investments will create more job opportunities. I intend to work with various stakeholders to foster an environment conducive to economic development.
- Affordable Housing: A complete review of property tax and water utility charges to ensure homeowners enjoy reasonable rates.
I am committed to working hard for our community. I would love the opportunity to discuss my platform further with you.
Alvin Baptiste
My role is a cultural advisor at schools and institutions in the Battlefords and area. I am a custodian of cultural knowledge and indigenous history; I educate indigenous and nonindigenous people in the Battlefords to promote the understanding and impacts of our colonial history and promote appreciation of our Cree culture.As an active member of the North Battleford community, I was involved in several committees, including the upcoming tipi project on Kings Hill and the Annie Peyachew sculpture in town and the Wandering Spirit Grave Site project, to promote cultural understanding. I received the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal for my contributions to reconciliation efforts in the area.
As an advocate for social issues, I advocate for fairness, equality, and systemic issues that cause inequality and discrimination. I want to build a community that accommodates and reacts to these issues that impact us.
My campaign consists of addressing reconciliation and the social issues of poverty, addictions, homelessness, and to help make North Battleford a safe and affordable city to live in.
I will continue to work towards reconciliation between the indigenous and non-indigenous community to build respectful relationships between us and foster a sense of identity, pride, and continuity for the benefit of us all.
My wife Elaine and I have been married for 39 years and have five children and three grandchildren. We have made North Battleford our home for over 40 years.
Rodney Fedler
I was born and raised in the Battlefords and was a business owner with Fedler Electric until 2023. My wife and myself have raised our three daughters in this community that we will always call home. I decided to run for council because I hope my business background can be valuable to the city and I want nothing more than to see the city thrive. We as a council have to make the city a place where businesses want to relocate in and while doing so we must be attractive to the young families that will follow these businesses to our community This means providing businesses with what they need and the services for the workers to want to live here, all while trying to maintain fiscal responsibility. I believe people should vote for myself because I will be a voice that will question administration when I feel the need arises and will always be open to listening to the taxpayers.
North Battleford Candidates for Mayor
Terence (Terry) Caldwell
In 1990 I moved to Red Deer and raised a family and owned and operated a service and manufacturing business in the flooring industry with upwards of 40 employees. In 2010 moved back to the Battlefords to be closer to family and open a retail flooring store.
I decided to run for office as I deeply felt that my passion for North Battlefords problems could use my 40 years in business, having sat on provincial and federal boards and with serving six years on the Chamber of Commerce including a term as President uniquely qualified me to move issues forward.
I believe that a healthy community involves growth in the business sector and want to create a task force to build incentives for businesses to locate here. I want to review the CSO program and investigate if the focus is on revenue generator instead of safety. With my many connections in the business community, Federal and Provincial, I will be reaching out to help to fund youth programs that are based on a dollar spent early saves many dollars in lack of employment, crime management and overall health of the community. I want to re- establish North Battleford as a transportation hub to relieve businesses of the expensive short haul from Saskatoon's redistribution hub, saving cost for the end consumer making us more competitive with Saskatoon.
By the end of my four-year term, I want us to feel safe, with growing health care amenities and education opportunities along with business growth.
Kelli Hawtin
I am a mother of two young girls, wife and business partner to Mitchell Hawtin, and have been an elected city councillor since 2014. I moved to North Battleford to attend college in 2007, then started my nursing career and made this community my home.
I want to see our city grow and thrive, but I also want to see our City government have a strong and positive relationship with the region, the business community, community organizations, and our citizens.
I believe that positive leadership and collaboration can solve issues, and is what we need as a community to see growth and more positive changes into the future. We have significant projects on the horizon - Prospective Regional College, Arena Project, Zoning Review - and I believe we need a Mayor who has the energy and experience to lead our council and community through these significant decisions.
I would like to work on growth in our community, both business and population growth. We can achieve this through a review of our zoning policies to see what is working and what requires updating, and innovative incentives for developments and job creation. I hope to make a difference in relationships and partnerships, ensuring we have a city hall that is transparent, but also welcoming and open to working with our regional leadership and community partners to enhance life for all citizens. I will continue to listen to and be responsive to the community, and use public consultation to inform my decision making. I believe our city government is made of the people, for the people - and we need to ensure we are available and open to collaborating to drive us forward, together.
I am honest, eager for change, experienced, and willing to partner to enhance the city in many ways. I am approachable and open to hearing people's concerns and ideas, and am invested in the future of our city - I am raising my young family here, operate a business here, and have the experience needed to continue working on important issues in our community.
Town Councillor Candidates
Doug Laing
I was first elected in 2012 and am seeking a 4th term. I am a lifelong resident of the town, my wife and I have raised our family here and have both worked in various local businesses. We have always believed it was a great place to live and raise a family.
I am seeking a 4th term to continue to be a part of the great team of council and management. For those who have been involved know it is a team effort, the town is fortunate to have great leadership who all have the same goals and vision for our town. We also have great managers who have the same vision.
Another chance to be a part of that group is the reason we re-run and why new residents choose to run.
Upcoming challenges include regional arena discussions, the provincial govt is discussing the start of plans for a new district care centre and continuing the work on relationships in our region with our surrounding neighbours is always a priority.
Another chance to sit at the council table with a great team is my reason for running again.
Shelley Boutin-Gervais
I was born and raised in Battleford, and I am an active community member sitting on the Lakeland Library Board, Battleford Library Board and Park & Recreation Board and a member of the Battleford Community Spirit Group, also I volunteer with various organizations. I enjoy sports, camping, boating, golfing and spending time with family and friends. I have a Certificate in Business Admin from the U of S and have attained my Municipal Leadership Development Program certificate. I work for a telecommunications company and am a member of the Labour Relations Board.
I have been honoured to represent the community over the past three terms and do not take the responsibility lightly. I am seeking re-election to keep the town moving forward in a progressive manner and continue to build on the progress that has been made thus far, while remaining fiscally responsible and transparent.
My priorities include: Ensure infrastructure keeps up with growth; Preserving and promoting the rich history of Battleford; Keeping residents active, safe and involved in the community (from youth to seniors); Try to find creative ways to boost economic development; Remain an affordable place to live while being progressive; Being fiscally responsible and transparent.
I remain committed to serving the community with diligence and dedication, leveraging my knowledge and experience, while building on the progress we’ve made. I’m committed to working with the community to continue to make Battleford a great place to live, play, work and invest.
Clayton Lazar
I am 42 years old and have lived in the Battlefords and area for 15 years. My professional background is in emergency services as I have proudly served both as a paramedic and full-time firefighter. I am married to Lindsey Lazar a successful real estate agent in the area and we have three amazing children.
I decided to run to help continue the town's forward progress with focus on community safety and exploring new commercial development opportunities.
My experience in emergency services combined with my involvement in local governance through the Battlefords Housing Authority as one of its board of directors as well as an executive on North Battlefords Fire Union Local 1756 has given me a deep understanding of what this community needs.
If elected I would like to enhance community safety , promote commercial development, support housing initiatives, and strengthen community relationships.
The citizens of Battleford if voting for me are voting for someone with a genuine passion for the Battlefords and the experience and skills to make meaningful positive changes based off of diligence, empathy, compassion and integrity.
Mark Coleman
I have an honours degree from Sir Wilfrid Laurier University in Contemporary Studies with a major in History and minor in Organizational Leadership, in addition to an Advanced Degree in Education from Nipissing University. I have been teaching for the last 15 years and am currently teaching Gr. 4 at Battleford Central School. When I’m not at work I enjoy spending time with my wife and coaching my two young boys in minor hockey and baseball.
I’m running for municipal council because, as a homeowner and parent, I’m deeply committed to keeping our town a great place to live and raise a family.
My goals, if elected, would be to work with my fellow councillors to ensure the viability of the Town well into the future. What that means to me is: Encouraging businesses to set up shop in Battleford but also maintaining the smalltown environment that everyone knows and loves; Keep Battleford affordable for its residents; Continue with expanding recreation opportunities and enhance the beautification/walkability of the town.
I have the capacity and dedication needed to be an effective council member. I’m committed to working hard to ensure your voice is heard and that our town continues to grow as a place we can all be proud of.
Randall Cote
I moved to the battlefords in 2009, now raising my 4 children with my wife Jenna in Battleford. I have operated a small business based out of battleford since 2009, and I am a realtor with Century 21.
There has not been a significant change in councillors in the past couple of elections and would like to get a fresh set of eyes on council.
I will promote and obtain businesses into our commercial and industrial sector in battleford, which in turn will lead to more local jobs; correct our slowly climbing crime rate in battleford (if elected).
I will fight for positive change and to keep our town a safe place to live and raise a family.
Josh Pernala
I was born and raised in Battleford. My family has a long outstanding construction company in the Battlefords.
I decided to run for council because I wanted to see some change brought to the town from a new perspective.
If I was elected I would like to see something happen with rising crime rates. I would also like to see more business come to town, we have substantially lower tax rates than North Battleford and we need to promote that.
Kevin Russell
Born and raised in the Battlefords. Have lived in the Town of Battleford since 1996. Married to Leanne and have 2 daughters, paige(20) and Payton(16)
Seeking re-election for my 3rd term. Biggest reason to re-run is to be involved in our community. Helping to keep it safe, fun and affordable.
Hope to make the community safer. Build the town’s business sector and to keep building and investing in our youth.
People should vote for me because I care about the people of our town. I want to keep our town safe, fun and affordable to live in.
David George
I was born and raised in the Battlefords as was my wife Janet. We chose to live in Battleford and built our first home here 42 years ago. Our children and grandchildren have also chosen to live in Battleford, some operate businesses here.
I have worked as a Financial Planner for 42 years with Investors Group Wealth Mgmt. The last eight years as an associate to my son Michael. My career path will be an asset when working with budgets and assisting with financial decisions on behalf of the people.
Charities and boards have been part of my life since the late 1970s: United way, Cancer society, Battleford’s Wildlife Federation, Fred Light Museum, Battleford’s Handi-bus, Minor hockey, Minor and Senior Baseball and the Battleford’s North Stars to name a few. Coaching young people has brought many joys to my life, seeing young people grow and become great people in our community is the greatest reward you can have as a coach. To this day I coach referees in hockey and umpire baseball.
For 20 years off and on I have served the Town to the best of my ability as a Councillor. I have watched and participated in the growth of our community. We need to have the infrastructure and other facilities to maintain the growth. I believe that we have a great staff and that they will help take us into the future.
Taxation and spending are always a major concern for a community and rightfully so. What do we the people of Battleford get for our hard-earned tax dollars? Where is the money being spent and is it being spent wisely? I believe transparency is the key to a successful council. In the past I believe that I have done the best for our town and dealt with spending with common sense and fairness. I will continue to do so.
Promoting industry, our history, maintaining our infrastructure, a new fire hall, recreation facilities and safety of our citizens are just a few things that I pledge to do my best to see these things are taken care of.
Judy Pruden
I am running for my third term as councillor for the Town of Battleford and I will explain why you can ‘count on me’.
I am a lifelong resident of Battleford. I enjoy travelling; watching sports; knitting and gardening. My employment history includes accounting; administration; 18 years at the police detachment dispatching & major crimes steno.
I am totally committed to serving the residents of Battleford by ensuring l attend all regular council meetings, and meetings of Citizens on Patrol; Health & Safety; River Valley Committee as the town representative. I try to make sound decisions; decisions that are maybe not easy or popular, but are necessary to make the best choice for the community. I am also part of the Fort Battleford Working Group and Battleford Community Spirit Group.
I completed all modules of the Municipal Leadership Development Program, and the U of A Course Certificate for Indigenous Canada.
I'm interested in tapping into our local history and historic sites and museums to provide a solid tourist destination. Potential business owners are always welcome to pitch their ideas to the council and work with the council to have a successful outcome.
The many improvements to parks; the bridge and even the cemetery are made possible because the councils of the past have planned, budgeted and advocated for them. I would like to be part of a team that continues to adhere to the Strategic Plan and yearly budgets which bring these improvements to fruition, while keeping tax increases to a minimum, without compromising services.
I humbly ask for support from the residents of Battleford to allow me to be part of a team that is moving our town into the future, a place where we provide a safe, affordable, inclusive town; recreation for all generations and a friendly place to live.
