Members of the town council are beginning to make their decisions regarding re-election, as anyone wishing to serve in an elected municipal office must have nominations submitted by September 21.
Across Saskatchewan, nominating day is recognized as September 21, and balloting day for towns where more persons are nominated than positions are available will be on October 26.
Currently one councillor in the Town of Canora, Matthew Nehaj, has stated that he will not be seeking re-election.
“Certain goals I had couldn’t be met, so I’ve decided it’s somebody else’s turn,” Nehaj said.
Meanwhile, the five other current councillors, Syl Hyrinkiw, Gerald Wolkowski, Cory O’Dell, Brad Gabora, and James Trofimenkoff have all indicated that they will be running for re-election.
“I’m one of the youngest councillors, and I would like to have a few more years of experience under my belt,” Gabora said. “I think I still have a lot to offer.
“I’ve been very busy with Leisure Services, and I have a lot of projects I’d like to continue to be a part of.”
Trofimenkoff agreed that continuing with projects was one of the main reasons he plans to run for re-election.
“I want to get infrastructure in the community back up to par,” he added. “There’s a lot of projects I want to continue planning.”
Mayor Gina Rakochy, who has been part of the town council for 14 years, was elected two years ago as the result of a by election, and currently plans to run for re-election.
“Being the mayor is challenging and rewarding at the same time,” she said when asked how she felt about her experience. “I feel like I’m not finished yet.”
Rakochy plans to run because of her firm belief that she can lead the Town of Canora forward.
“I believe in my community and understand its great potential,” Rakochy said. “I can’t wait to see what the future holds for us.”
Regardless of what the future may involve, one thing she believes will stay constant is the amount of teamwork required between the mayor and the council members.
“Council and staff are an integral team, and no one person can do it alone.”
Rakochy believes that the current council has begun the process of defining what Canora is and who its citizens can be. “I’m excited to lead that plan into the future,” she said.
