In preparation for the municipal election Wednesday, Oct. 24, Yorkton This Week asked each of the 10 candidates for the six seats on Council to supply a brief biography, and some information on why they are seeking election.
In addition YTW supplied the candidates with a series of three questions, and asked that they answer each in 150-words, or less.
The responses to those questions follow. (See Story..."The questions...")
LES ARNELIEN: I have lived in Yorkton for 18 years. I am the Branch Manager of TD Canada Trust.
It is has been my privilege to be a city councillor for the past 12 years. I want to continue to contribute to our growth and prosperity. I think the future of Yorkton is bright and feel that my experience and financial background will continue to benefit the city of Yorkton and its residents.
ROBBY BEAR: My wife Avery and I are the proud parents to four beautiful children and we are very proud to call Yorkton our home. I have lived in the City of Yorkton for 15 years, and am currently employed as the Operations Manager for the Painted Hand Casino in Yorkton. I am also in my third year as a Director with the Yorkton Chamber of Commerce.
Moving to Yorkton at a young age, I attended school at St. Joseph Jr. High, as well as the Yorkton Regional high school. I studied business at the University of Regina, and have progressed as a successful business man in the community for the past ten years. While playing Jr. "A" hockey with the Yorkton Terriers, I was privileged to be part of a great community based organization, and was honoured to receive the award of "most popular player voted by the fans".
Running for council is not a political agenda, but an opportunity to serve the community and represent their concerns. I think the citizens of our community are ready for a fresh perspective and I am prepared to be the strong voice for the community to ensure Yorkton continues to be a desirable place to live.
ARLISS DELLOW: I have been in Yorkton for 45 years having started working with Stan Kyba on June 5, 1967 and have now been retired for just over three. Having previously served on Council, I have had many, over the number of years, asking me to run again but felt that I did not have the time to properly fulfill my duties as a Councillor. I now have the time to work for all the citizens of Yorkton and am, if elected, prepared to do so. It has always been my philosophy and belief that working, or volunteering, for your fellow human beings is only a very small part of the rent to be paid for the short time we are given to try and make a difference.
ROSS FISHER: I've lived in Yorkton for eleven years. I am the Executive Director of The Health Foundation.
Why Am I Running for Council?
My work with The Health Foundation demonstrates I can bring people together in support of things we need in the community. I can understand difficult issues; I can break them down and articulate them in a common sense way. I think that is a good perspective to have on Council.
RANDY GOULDEN: I grew up in the small community of Stornoway with Yorkton as our main service centre. I have lived in Yorkton for most of my adult live, except for time away for education. I am the Executive Director of Tourism Yorkton and work as the Director of the Yorkton Film Festival.
Throughout my work and volunteer life, I have had the privilege of calling Yorkton home. I have served the people of Yorkton as a councillor previously, I believe with the knowledge I have gained working and volunteering here, my experience will be an asset as we grow our city.
