Who’s Running for Council in October?

Jon Kramer

My wife, Kim, and I have called Westlock home since 2004. From the very beginning, this community embraced us and provided us with an opportunity to build a life. We’ve loved raising our two daughters in this small town of ours and my desire is to continue to give back by serving another term as Mayor - seeing our municipality remain safe, strong and viable.

Throughout my first 10 years as a resident of Westlock, I served as the Associate Pastor at the Alliance Church. In 2014 my wife began to pursue her career in nursing and I transitioned into being the primary, at-home care-giver for our two daughters. My re-entry into the workforce saw me take on a few new part-time roles: Alberta Marriage Commissioner, Educational Assistant at Westlock Elementary, Councillor - and then, Mayor - with the Town of Westlock. Aside from work, I have always been an active community volunteer - coaching youth football, basketball, and swim club for 19 over years.

During this past term, my board and committee appointments included: Westlock Economic Region Committee, Municipal Planning Commission, Regional Water Commission, Homeland Housing, FCSS, Inter-municipal Library Board, Emergency Management Committee, Health & Safety Committee and the Financial Framework Task Force.

It’s been an honour to serve my community in the role of Mayor. I’m excited for the opportunity to continue building upon all we’ve already accomplished - especially in the areas of economic development, housing initiatives and regional partnerships with the County and Village of Clyde.

Jerry Buchko 

I am Jerry Buchko, and I am pleased to announce my candidacy for Town Council. As a native of small-town Saskatchewan, I possess an innate understanding of the essential elements required to foster a thriving community. Having resided in Westlock since 2002, I have developed a profound appreciation for our town and its residents. 

Following a fulfilling 31-year career as an educator, I am now eager to embark on a new challenge. My motivation for seeking a position on Town Council stems from my enduring commitment to enhancing the quality of life in Westlock. Throughout my time in Westlock, I have actively contributed to various community initiatives, including the establishment of a high school football team in 2006, collaborating with local partners to install permanent lighting at the football field, producing five successful seasons of 'Rock Of Ages' performances at the CATS Theatre, officiating minor hockey and football games, and participating in the Westlock Events Committee. 

As the fundraising member of the Westlock Football Association, I have had the pleasure of interacting with numerous business owners, non-profit organizations, and community volunteers, with whom I look forward to continuing to work closely if elected. If given the opportunity to serve on Town Council, I am confident that my passion for community development, combined with my experience and leadership skills, will enable me to make a positive impact in Westlock.

Laurie Hodge

Westlock has been my home since 1988 when I began my career in municipal government, springboarding from there to non-profit leadership. I have always wanted to run for a seat on Council, but work and life commitments have limited my availability. At this point, after commuting to and from Edmonton-St. Albert for 20 years, I’ve “re-settled” in Westlock full-time. I currently work part-time for the Westlock Community Foundation, but I feel I have the time and focus to give more to Westlock.

My understanding of political/public service has been developed not just by my work in the not-for-profit and municipal government sectors, but as a two-term (elected and acclaimed) School Board Trustee, representing the Town of Westlock at the Pembina Hills table. I am currently serving a three-year term as a provincially-appointed Public Member for a professional regulatory organization (PRO) as well as volunteering for the Town’s Subdivision and Development Appeal Board (SDAB) and the Westlock Intermunicipal Library Board.

As an engaged, though often absent, resident I have kept tabs, with interest, on the Town’s progress and Council’s work. Now, no longer an absent commuter, I would be honoured to be part of the effort to continue building a vibrant, sustainable and progressive community

Laura Morie 

Serving on Town Council has been an honour and a responsibility I take to heart. This past term, I’ve worked hard to ensure Westlock remains a place where all ages can thrive.

I have been proud to represent the Town on the Homeland Housing Board, helping create solutions that meet the needs of our senior population. As a founding board member of our Community Foundation, I’ve helped establish a legacy that will support local initiatives for years to come. Through the joint economic region build-out, I’ve worked to expand opportunities for growth and leverage our largely unsung strengths. Our Airport Authority has been focused on ensuring it remains a vital transportation and economic asset for the region. I’m also proud to serve on the Special Events Committee, which delivers free, family-friendly events that bring neighbours together and strengthen our community spirit.

I volunteer with our local FCSS, am a member of the Rotary Club of Westlock, and champion youth initiatives. Volunteering is how we show up to create great communities. I have decades of experience in small business, financial consulting, board governance and regional nonprofit leadership. I’ve worked closely with partners to strengthen services, build capacity, while supporting the facilities and resources that make our community welcoming and inclusive.

I advocate practical, forward-thinking decision-making, responsible budgeting, collaborative leadership and strengthening our local strategic partnerships. I will continue to advocate for smart growth, sustainable infrastructure, programs that enhance the quality of life for all residents and make Westlock an attractive community.

Curtis Snell 

My family has called Westlock home since 1993. Our family appreciates the small-town atmosphere and the connections we have made within this community. Westlock is a wonderful place to raise a family that offers some of the best recreation and health care facilities in the province, as well a vibrant core of businesses that serve the region.

Over my past terms serving on Town Council, I have appreciated the opportunity to collaborate with fellow council members, town administration, and residents to improve the quality of life for Westlock residents. I believe I have contributed to sound decision-making by bringing a pragmatic, level-headed approach to the council table which has made Westlock a better place to live, work and play.

In today’s uncertain and often polarized political and economic climate, it’s more important than ever for Westlock to have an experienced, balanced, and strategic council. The next council must continue to focus on delivering core municipal services—roads, water, sanitary sewer, stormwater management, recycling, and waste collection—however at the same time key regional initiatives such as recreation, economic development, and social services must not take a back seat.

So why am I running again? Simply put, I genuinely enjoy the privilege of serving this community. The next four years will bring on new challenges and opportunities for Westlock and with your support, I am eager to contribute to Westlock’s continued success. Together, we can meet those challenges, embrace new opportunities, and keep improving the quality of life for all residents.

Mitch Tinant 

The community of Westlock is at the heart of everything I do. I was born and raised in Westlock, where my wife and I are now raising our three daughters. My deep-rooted connection reflects a lifelong commitment to its growth and well-being. After graduating from RF Staples, I went on to become a Powerline Technician and I worked serving the community, connecting local customers to the power grid, and keeping the lights on.

My career in the electrical utility trade has not only provided me with meaningful work, but it has also allowed me to contribute directly to the community I care about. Being in the field and now in management, I have extensive experience in critical infrastructure asset management, responsible budgeting, and emergency preparedness. These skills support a strong, resilient community.

Through active involvement in the Rotary Club and local sports associations, I have had the privilege of working alongside others who share a passion for making Westlock thrive. These experiences have strengthened my dedication to our town’s success and future.

I am running for Town Council to help shape a thriving, safe, and welcoming Westlock. With a strong focus on responsible budgeting, economic growth, and enhancing parks and recreation, I am committed to building a community we are all proud to call home.

Randy Wold