There may not be a race for mayor in Battleford this year, but there is no shortage of candidates running for the six council seats.
Eleven candidates are in the race in Battleford. Five incumbents are seeking to return to council, but they face plenty of competition from six individuals hoping to gain a spot on council on Nov. 9.
Here is a look at the 11 candidates based on their profiles submitted to and posted at the town’s election candidates page:
Kevin Russellis seeking re-election to a second term on Battleford council. His platform posted on the town’s election page includes keeping Battleford safe, continuing to build and invest in infrastructure, advocating for future arena upgrades, continuing to see through ongoing projects that are on the go including St. Vital Church and the lagoon project, keeping taxes and utilities low, keeping the history of Battleford on the forefront, and investing in the town’s youth.
Judy Prudenis seeking a second term on council. According to her election profile at the town website, her reasons for running include safety for residents, economic development and downtown revitalization, promoting the town by developing tourism based on their history, and expanded recreation for all ages.
Doug Laingis seeking a third term on council. His profile states that he would like to continue to develop relationships with all our neighbours and other levels of government. He also would like to look for opportunities for their downtown and commercial business areas while maintaining a small town atmosphere.
In his profile posted on the town’s website, Richard “Rick” Zarowny states that “if elected I look forward to ensuring the growth of Battleford continues with fiscal responsibility in mind so that both residents and businesses have a comfortable place to call home.” He has worked in the satellite communication industry for 38 years and had previously been a town councillor in Osler, Saskatchewan before moving to Battleford. He was born in North Battleford.
Gordon Yardehas been a resident of Battleford for 43 years and a councillor for 27 years. According to his election profile Yarde states that he feels a “responsibility to share my years of knowledge and experience for the betterment of Battleford, and I want to be part of an enthusiastic team that is willing to promote the Town.
“We as a council must be careful that increased taxation does not become a burden to the Town and remains fair to all residents including seniors. We must also continue to build relationships with the surrounding First Nation communities.”
Shelley Boutin-Gervaishas been on council for the past eight years. According to her election profile, Boutin-Gervais said her priorities are to ensure infrastructure keeps up with growth; reserving and promoting the rich history of Battleford; keeping residents active, safe and involved in the community (from youth to seniors); economic development; and being fiscally responsible and transparent
“Together we can continue to make Battleford a great place to live, play, work and invest.”
Alexis Christensenhas lived in and around Battleford her entire life, and has spent 10 years working in long term care and 10 years working as a teacher with Living Sky School Division; she now works for BATC as their director of communications. Christensen said on her Facebook page that her platform includes youth recreation initiatives, economic development, community events and initiatives, history preservation and serving the community.
Mark Colemanholds degrees from Wilfrid Laurier University and Nipissing University and moved to Battleford in 2015. According to his profile at the town’s election page he is passionate about “safeguarding a positive future for our youth; ensuring fiscal competence; and feel we as a community have a tremendous amount of potential for growth.”
Cory Schafferhas lived in the town since 2002. At his profile posted on the town's election page, Schaffer states: "I believe in a strong work ethic as well as an honest, responsible and respectful approach to people and problems. I feel strongly that we as citizens of the town need to have a council that is open and willing to deal with all issues the town may face. The Town of Battleford is a beautiful place to live. I humbly ask your support to elect me to council so I may work for you to make it better."
David Georgehas served 16 years on town council in Battleford. He was last on council during the 2012-16 term and at the end of that term he for mayor, losing to Ames Leslie. He has 38 years experience working for 38 years with I.G. Wealth Management. At his election profile posted with the town George states his “likes” include “Great community, Great Water, Great Recreation facilities, Great Fire Department.” He lists his “concerns” as “Covid-19; Taxation and spending; Safety for all citizens; Building strong infrastructure (Roads); Not using the expertise of the people in our community when building or new infrastructure.”
The last candidate nominated in the race is Ken Chartier. According to his profile, he has been volunteer firefighter with The Battleford Fire Department for 22 years, achieving the rank of Lieutenant. I have also enjoyed being the department’s Fire Safety Officer.
“I would be honored to serve my community further as a member of the town council. My goal is to contribute towards the growth and development of Battleford,” Chartier states. “As a town council member we must ensure that our town has policies that promote safety and prosperity of its citizens.”
