After a narrow victory to become mayor of Stettler in the last election, Dick Richards is “thrilled” to maintain his seat uncontested in this year’s election.
“I like to think that it is voters’ confidence in me and that the leadership of council is in good hands,” Richards said Tuesday, the day after nominations closed.
“I still have a passion for what I do.”
Richards was elected in the last election after a 27-vote victory over Will Brown, who is running for councillor in the campaign for the Oct. 21 election.
Serving as mayor for four years, Richards succeeded Jim Hunter, who stepped down when he was appointed a provincial judge.
With five incumbent councillors facing six challenges, the mayor is pleased with the strong interest in Stettler’s town council.
“I think it demonstrates that there is a desire to move the town forward and there are a lot of people with a desire to be part of that team,” Richards said.
“We have such a diverse group of new candidates.”
While two newcomers were defeated in the last election and are back in the race this time around, four are new on the ballot.
The mayor urged voters to get active in the electoral process.
“It’s important that the voters engage in the election campaign and find out what each candidate stands for,” Richards said.
“If you don’t vote, you don’t have a right to complain about decisions of council.”
Prior to taking over the mayor’s seat, Richards served as a councillor for nine years.
— Froese