wn of Stettler has resigned to seek the vacancy for mayor.
Dick Richards officially resigned Sept. 1 as required to seek the nomination.
“After serving three terms as town councilor, I am confident that I am up to the challenge,” said Richards who was first elected in 2001.
The long-time Stettler resident is seeking the vacancy left by Jim Hunter, who resigned as mayor in July after serving five years as mayor and nine years as councilor when he was appointed a provincial judge for the central Alberta region by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General.
“I am committed to continue the work that has already been started and remain committed to projects like affordable housing, attraction and retention of physicians, urban pathways and the beautification of our town,” said Richards.
This resignation also opens a seat on council for councilor with nomination day scheduled for Sept. 21.
If more than one eligible candidate files nomination papers for either vacancy for mayor or councilor, the byelection will be held Oct. 19.
Nomination packages are available at the town office from returning officer Greg Switenky.
Richards is proud of the community and is committed to build for a stronger future.
“I am a local businessman and I am committed to having a safe and prosperous community for us all to enjoy,” said Richard, who has raised seven children, three are grown and four are in the elementary school system.
“”We currently have a wonderful and vibrant seniors’ population in Stettler and it is important to remain competitive in regards to services we provide, not only to them but the population as a whole.”
“This is an exciting time to live in Stettler and I look forward to serving the community.”
“We have a commercial taxation which is about 15 per cent lower than the provincial average and land available to attract new business.”
Any current members of council who desire to seek the mayor’s chair would have to resign at least 18 days before the official nomination day.
According to the election calendar, if the mayoral byelection is to be held on Oct. 19 as required by law, councilors who are willing to run would have to resign by Sept. 2.
Successors to the vacant seats would serve the balance of the three-year term that expires in October 2010.