In meeting with many of you in the community, one of things I’m often asked is why I’ve decided to run for City Council.

Running has been an aspiration in the making over my lifetime.

My wife and I have been life long residents of Edmonton. We have raised three children in Ward 9. During that time, we have met many wonderful community leaders and have appreciated the pragmatic, balanced and forward-looking representation we have received from Bryan Anderson in Ward 9 at the City Council table and from former Premier and MLA for Edmonton-Whitemud, Dave Hancock. I want to see that same approach to elected office continue.

I’m running because, as a young man, my parents taught me that one of our great responsibilities as engaged citizens is to find meaningful ways to contribute to our community.  To leave the world we inhabit better than we found it.  To give back.

I’m running to help Council stay accountable to you, their electorate. To ensure that we are a city which encourages innovation and entrepreneurialism so that our diverse business community can thrive.

I’m running so that we have responsible and forward-looking investment in infrastructure and development that will support the continued growth of the city.

I’m running to be the voice for Ward 9. To ensure that our challenges, some of which are at a critical crossroads (like transportation), are not only raised to the top of the priority list but resolved by listening to the voices of our residents.

I’m running because Edmonton is amongst the best places in the world to live. To work. To raise a family. And we all play a role in helping to keep this positive momentum going.

Truly, I’m running for my family, and yours. So that our children and grandchildren can grow in a community that they’re proud to call home.

I look forward to meeting you over the coming months and continuing the conversation about what’s important in our community.