Being asked the question during my campaign for Mayor about my stand on the City of Camrose hiring contractors/services and buying goods, here is my position:
I believe the City of Camrose should follow a clear “Local First” policy. Requests for proposals should always be issued to all local contractors and businesses holding a City licence, giving everyone here equal opportunity before the City seeks bids from outside.
This approach strengthens our local economy, creates jobs, and supports the programs and services that local businesses give back to. At the same time, it protects taxpayers by requiring competitive bids and safeguards against inflated pricing just because it’s a City contract.
When local businesses succeed, Camrose succeeds. That’s why I’ll champion a fair, transparent “Local First” procurement policy that keeps our tax dollars working right here at home.
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How do you plan to curb tax increases, if voted Mayor?
That’s an important question, because I know the rising cost of living is already weighing heavily on families and businesses in Camrose. We can’t keep asking households to shoulder more while city budgets grow without careful scrutiny.
My plan to curb tax increases is rooted in three key approaches:
1. Responsible budgeting and cost control.
Just like households have to make choices about priorities, the City must do the same. That means reviewing spending line by line, reducing duplication, and finding efficiencies within departments before ever looking to increase taxes. City staff and council must be challenged to deliver the same—or better—service with smarter use of resources.
2. Smarter growth and economic development.
When we grow our local economy and support existing businesses, the tax base broadens, meaning more revenue without raising individual tax bills. My “Local First” focus ensures that City contracts, projects, and opportunities are offered to Camrose businesses first. Stronger local businesses mean more jobs, more investment, and a healthier economy—helping to ease the tax burden on residents.
3. Long-term planning and transparency.
Too often, rising costs come from short-term decision-making that doesn’t consider the long-range impact on taxpayers. I believe in strategic planning that looks five, ten, even twenty years ahead, making sure infrastructure, services, and staffing are sustainable. By being transparent about where every tax dollar goes and involving residents in setting priorities, we can build trust and make sure spending reflects what the community truly needs.
In short, curbing tax increases requires discipline, creativity, and fairness. It’s about living within our means, just as families do, while ensuring Camrose still grows, thrives, and provides excellent services.
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What is your plan to support small businesses in Camrose?
Small businesses are the backbone of Camrose. They create jobs, support families, and keep our local economy thriving. They’re also often the biggest donors and supporters of community programs, the arts, local sports, and countless activities that make Camrose such a great place to live. And the truth is, most small business owners aren’t getting rich off the citizens, they’re simply making a living while providing the goods and services we all depend on.
My plan to support small businesses focuses on three key areas:
First, I want to ensure that City Hall makes it easier, not harder, to do business here. That means streamlining permits, cutting unnecessary red tape, and making processes more efficient so entrepreneurs can focus on growing their businesses instead of fighting paperwork.
Second, I will prioritize a ‘Local First’ approach… making sure that whenever possible, the City looks to local businesses and contractors before going outside of our community. This not only keeps dollars circulating in Camrose but also strengthens our local economy.
Finally, I want the City to be a true partner in growth. That includes promoting buy-local initiatives, working with local business organizations and mentorship programs to support networking and training opportunities, and looking at ways to attract more people and events into Camrose so that small businesses benefit from increased foot traffic.
In short, supporting small business means creating an environment where they can succeed, stay competitive, and feel valued. Because they give so much back to our community, and because they’re here simply trying to make an honest living. I believe it’s time for the City to give more back to them. If our small businesses thrive, Camrose thrives.
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What will you do to improve communication and transparency between City Hall and the citizens of Camrose?
Transparency is the foundation of trust. Too often, residents feel decisions are made behind closed doors or without enough input from the community. As Mayor, I will push for clear, timely communication, whether that’s through open forums, regular updates online, or making council information easier for residents to access and understand.
I believe citizens should not only be informed, but also have opportunities to provide meaningful input before major decisions are made. I want to see more proactive engagement with the community, not just reaction after the fact. By improving communication, we can make sure citizens feel heard, included, and respected in the decision-making process.
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What is your plan to address the shortage of affordable housing in Camrose?
I hear every day from families, seniors, and business owners in Camrose who are feeling the squeeze of rising costs. Groceries, fuel, utilities, and housing are all more expensive, and people are worried about how far their dollar will stretch. The City needs to recognize this reality and make decisions that do not add further financial strain on households through unnecessary programs or higher taxes.
Affordable housing and good job opportunities go hand in hand. When businesses are given licenses and permits but do not hire local workers or support the local economy, it creates pressure not only on employment but also on housing demand. Unfortunately, this is something we are also seeing within City Hall itself, where local talent is often overlooked. Camrose has long been built on local businesses and workers who invest back into our community, and I believe City Hall should be setting the example by supporting our own people wherever possible.
As Mayor, I will advocate for fairness and accountability in both business licensing and City hiring practices. If someone wants to do business in Camrose, they should be expected to contribute to the community by hiring locally where possible and supporting local trades and suppliers. And City Hall must hold itself to that same standard. At the same time, I will focus on practical, cost-conscious housing solutions such as streamlining zoning and permitting, encouraging modest options like secondary suites and infill development, and ensuring local builders and developers have every opportunity to succeed without unnecessary barriers.
Camrose deserves growth that strengthens our community, not undermines it. My priority is to protect local jobs, support businesses and workers who give back to Camrose, and make sure housing and economic development decisions respect the fact that residents are already carrying heavy financial burdens.
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Camrose has been growing, but many people feel that infrastructure like roads, sidewalks, and recreation spaces haven’t kept up. What’s your plan to address that?
You’re absolutely right. Growth needs to be matched with proper investment in infrastructure so our community stays safe, accessible, and vibrant. My approach will be to prioritize projects based on need and impact, making sure essentials like roads, sidewalks, and utilities are maintained and upgraded before they become costly emergencies. At the same time, I want to ensure that recreation spaces and community amenities are part of our planning, because they directly impact quality of life and attract families to Camrose.
This means working within a responsible budget, pursuing grants and partnerships where possible, and ensuring that development pays its fair share so taxpayers aren’t carrying the entire burden. My focus will be on building a strong, sustainable Camrose that is prepared for the future while keeping affordability in mind for residents.
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Shauna, what made you run for Mayor? You have never served on council. Why would you not start with council?
That’s a very fair question, and I appreciate you asking it. While I have not sat on City Council before, I do have extensive experience working in politics, lobbying, and advocating on behalf of people and organizations. Over the years I’ve worked with all levels of government, navigating policy, addressing issues, and ensuring that local voices are heard at the decision-making table.
I see the role of Mayor as one that requires leadership, vision, and the ability to build relationships… not just within council chambers, but also with provincial and federal leaders, businesses, and community groups. My background has uniquely prepared me for that. I’ve spent years building partnerships, tackling complex issues, and bringing people together to find solutions.
So while I may not have been a councillor, my experience has given me the skills and perspective needed to step directly into the role of Mayor and to serve our community with the leadership and advocacy it deserves.
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As a business owner I want to know if there are plans to deal with and or help the homeless population?
That is an important question and one our city must approach with both compassion and practicality. As a smaller municipality, we do not have unlimited resources, and increasing taxes should not be our first option. What we can do is work smarter by building stronger partnerships with community organizations, service providers, and higher levels of government to bring existing resources into Camrose rather than trying to create costly new programs ourselves.
Prevention and coordination will be key. By supporting programs that already exist in our region and connecting individuals to those services, we can help address the root causes of homelessness without placing a heavy financial burden on local taxpayers. We can also look at strengthening community policing to help ensure our bylaws are enforced consistently so that businesses and residents feel safe in their neighborhoods, in our beautiful parks and downtown.
The goal is to protect the character of our city, support our businesses, and help those in need by using practical, affordable solutions that fit within our budget and capacity.
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What are you going to do to bring more industry and jobs to Camrose to support our young families and keep them here?
That’s a really important question, and one I hear from many residents who want to see Camrose thrive not only today but for the generations ahead.
My focus is on creating an environment where businesses feel welcome and supported to invest in our city. That starts with reducing unnecessary red tape and making it easier and faster for businesses to set up and grow here. I will work with local organizations, community leaders, and regional partners to actively recruit industries that fit our community’s strengths while also supporting the businesses we already have so they can expand and create new jobs.
Attracting more diverse industries means more opportunities for young people to build careers right here at home. It also strengthens our tax base, which helps us maintain and improve services without putting the full burden on residents. Supporting our families by creating stable, good-paying jobs is key to keeping them here, ensuring that Camrose continues to grow as a strong, vibrant, and sustainable community.
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Access to healthcare services and support for aging residents remain top priorities for many in our community. How do you plan to work with Alberta Health Services and local organizations to protect and improve these essential services in Camrose?
Healthcare access and support for our aging population are vital to maintaining the quality of life that Camrose residents value. Our community serves not only the people who live within city limits but also many from surrounding rural areas who rely on our healthcare system. That means it is essential we protect and strengthen the services we already have while working to expand those that are falling short.
My goal is to work hand in hand with Alberta Health Services, physicians, care facilities, and community-based organizations to ensure Camrose continues to be a leader in regional healthcare. I believe collaboration begins with open communication, so I intend to establish regular meetings between the City, Alberta Health Services representatives, and local healthcare professionals. This will allow us to address staffing shortages, identify critical service gaps, and develop strategies that support both immediate and long-term needs.
I also want to focus on programs that help seniors stay healthy, independent, and connected. That includes supporting local home care services, improving transportation options for medical appointments, and encouraging partnerships that provide access to affordable housing and assisted living. Camrose should be a place where our aging population feels supported, respected, and able to remain part of the community they helped build.
Ultimately, my approach is about creating a cooperative environment where healthcare providers, government, and residents work together to ensure that no one in Camrose is left behind when it comes to their health or well-being.
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What will you do to bring identity and beauty back to Camrose?
Camrose has always been known as a beautiful and welcoming city with a strong sense of community. I want to see us build on that foundation by revitalizing our public spaces, celebrating our local culture, and supporting initiatives that make Camrose a place people are proud to call home. This can be done responsibly without increasing taxes by working with local organizations, service clubs, and volunteers to enhance our parks, walking paths, and gathering spaces through partnerships and sponsorships.
Bringing identity and beauty back also means supporting local events, art, and heritage projects that highlight what makes Camrose unique. When residents and businesses take pride in their neighbourhoods and come together to beautify and strengthen our city, we not only improve how it looks but also how it feels to live here.
By encouraging collaboration, creativity, and community pride, we can restore the beauty and identity of Camrose in a way that is sustainable and true to who we are.
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Camrose relies heavily on its volunteer fire department, and many residents are concerned about whether it has the people, resources, and support needed to respond quickly and effectively as the city continues to grow. How will you work with both the department and the community to strengthen our fire and emergency services without placing extra costs on taxpayers?
Our volunteer firefighters play a vital role in keeping Camrose safe, and supporting them must remain a community priority. I believe the best approach is a collaborative one that brings together City Council, the Fire Department, and residents to identify real needs and workable solutions. That means listening to volunteers about recruitment and retention challenges, ensuring they have a say in training and resource planning, and working together to make service more sustainable over the long term.
We also need to continue pursuing outside funding and provincial grants for training and equipment to avoid adding costs to local taxpayers. By improving communication, addressing access issues such as train delays, and supporting modern training facilities that work for volunteers’ schedules, I believe we can help keep our emergency services strong. Camrose can achieve a balance where our firefighters feel supported, our community feels protected, and our residents know their tax dollars are being used wisely.
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If elected, what are your priorities for this term?
If elected mayor, my priorities will be to restore pride in our city, rebuild trust in local government, and strengthen the foundation that keeps Camrose thriving. I believe our community deserves leadership that listens, communicates clearly, and works alongside residents, businesses, and organizations toward shared goals.
Fiscal responsibility will be at the heart of every decision I make. We must ensure that every tax dollar is used wisely, with transparency and accountability, while finding creative ways to improve efficiency and attract outside funding so we can continue to move Camrose forward without adding more burden to taxpayers.
Economic growth will also be a central focus. I want to see Camrose become a destination for opportunity where local entrepreneurs can succeed, new investment brings real local jobs, and our downtown and business areas are vibrant and welcoming once again.
Finally, I want Camrose to be a city we are proud to call home, a place that is safe, clean, and beautiful, where we celebrate our identity and care for one another. Together, we can build a stronger and more united Camrose that stands as a model for what community leadership can achieve.
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What experience or skills do you have that you believe will serve your residents well?
I bring years of hands-on experience in business creation, management, and community leadership that I believe will serve residents well. Through my involvement with local business and community organizations on municipal and provincial levels, as well as operating my own companies, I’ve gained a strong understanding of how to build sustainable models that balance fiscal responsibility with growth.
I’ve worked closely with local leaders, volunteers, and small business owners to create opportunities that strengthen our community and help people succeed. Collaboration, accountability, and listening to residents are key to how I lead.
My goal is always to find practical, solution-driven ways to make our community stronger—without adding unnecessary burdens on taxpayers.
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How will you support residents with disabilities who may face increased rent costs due to the removal of income exemptions under the new housing regulations set out by the province? What action will you take to ensure persons with disabilities are not pushed further into poverty or homelessness due to provincial policy changes?
I understand that the province’s new housing regulations are creating real concern for residents with disabilities. Under these changes, rent in community and social housing will now be calculated as 30 percent of total household income, including sources that were previously exempt such as AISH and RRSP withdrawals. While this is meant to create a consistent formula, it will unfortunately mean higher rent costs for many individuals who are already living on fixed incomes.
If elected, I will advocate for a fair and compassionate approach that does not leave people with disabilities struggling to afford their homes. I believe the province needs to introduce transition supports such as hardship funds, extended phase-in periods, or exemptions for those with severe fixed incomes. The cost of living with a disability is already higher due to medical needs and accessibility expenses, and housing policy should recognize that reality.
At the municipal level, I will work to strengthen partnerships with local housing providers and community organizations to make sure residents receive clear information, budgeting assistance, and access to any financial aid programs available. I will also continue to advocate for better collaboration between municipal, provincial, and federal governments to ensure the new Canada Disability Benefit and other supports are not clawed back or undermined by these rent changes.
My goal is to make sure every resident, regardless of their ability, can live with dignity and stability in our community.
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How do you plan to support sustainable growth in Camrose? What are your priorities for infrastructure investment (eg. roads, wastewater, public transit)? How will you advocate for provincial or federal funding for local infrastructure projects?
Sustainable growth in Camrose begins with responsible planning and practical decision-making that protects taxpayers while ensuring our city continues to thrive. Growth must be managed carefully so that new development strengthens our community rather than overextending it. My focus will be on supporting the kind of growth that attracts families, businesses, and investment, while maintaining the quality of life that makes Camrose special.
Infrastructure will be a top priority. We need to ensure our roads are safe and well maintained, our wastewater systems are reliable, and our essential services can meet the needs of a growing population. Public transit must also be reviewed to ensure it is cost effective, consistent, and responsive to the needs of residents who rely on it for work, school, and daily life.
To secure funding for these projects, I will actively work with our provincial and federal representatives to highlight the importance of Camrose as a regional hub. I will advocate for partnerships that bring investment to our city without placing additional strain on local taxpayers. By presenting strong business cases and showing fiscal responsibility, we can strengthen our position when seeking grants and funding support for projects that matter most to our residents.
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What role do you see for youth in shaping municipal policy?
Our youth bring fresh energy, creativity, and a different perspective that our community needs if we want to build a future that truly works for everyone. I believe they should have a meaningful seat at the table, not just a symbolic one.
That means creating real opportunities for youth to engage with City Council through advisory committees, mentorship programs, and open dialogue on issues that affect them directly such as recreation, mental health, housing, and future employment opportunities.
I also believe we can strengthen connections between the City, our schools, and local organizations to support youth-led projects and leadership development. When young people feel heard and empowered, they become lifelong contributors to the community’s success, and that is exactly the kind of Camrose I want to help build.
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How will you support climate resilience and environmental sustainability in municipal planning?
I believe in taking a balanced and practical approach to climate resilience and environmental sustainability, one that listens to residents and involves them directly in the conversation. The people who live, work, and raise families in Camrose understand the value of our natural spaces, and their voices should help shape how we protect them.
In municipal planning, that means making smart, long term decisions such as improving stormwater management, maintaining healthy tree canopies, supporting native plant landscaping, and protecting green spaces that add both environmental and recreational value. These decisions should be made through open dialogue with residents, local organizations, and experts so that we find practical solutions that reflect the priorities of our community.
It also means ensuring that environmental goals are realistic and do not place unnecessary costs on taxpayers or businesses. By engaging residents in these discussions, we can create policies that are both environmentally responsible and economically sound.
By focusing on listening, collaboration, and common sense, we can build a sustainable future for Camrose that reflects the shared values of our community and respects both the environment and the people who call it home.
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How will you advocate for improved access to healthcare services in Camrose and surrounding rural areas, especially for seniors and low-income families? What steps will you take to support mental health additions services in our community?
Healthcare is a provincial responsibility, but as Mayor, I believe it is vital to advocate for the needs of our residents. Access to healthcare is a major concern for many residents in Camrose and the surrounding rural areas. As Mayor, I will advocate for stronger partnerships with Alberta Health Services, our MLA, and neighboring municipalities to ensure Camrose continues to serve as a reliable regional hub for healthcare. My focus will be on improving access to family physicians, specialists, and home care for seniors and low-income families who often face the greatest challenges in getting timely care.
I will also support practical, community-based approaches to mental health and addiction services. These issues affect individuals, families, and employers across our region, and addressing them requires coordination between healthcare providers, local organizations, and law enforcement. By improving collaboration and reducing duplication, we can make better use of existing resources while advocating for the support our community needs.
Most importantly, I believe in listening to residents and professionals who understand the challenges firsthand. Local voices must guide local solutions. Camrose deserves steady, accountable leadership that will work to strengthen healthcare access and ensure that services remain sustainable and effective for years to come.
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During the forum tonight many of the incumbents brought up our water crisis. What are your thoughts on that topic?
Here are my thoughts:
Water Crisis in Camrose: Time for Action
The water situation in Camrose has been ignored for far too long. Ten years of warnings, droughts, restrictions, and still no substantial solutions. I am running because it is time to do, not just talk.
Here is the reality, the urgency, and what I intend to do differently.
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What we know
Camrose draws its water from Driedmeat Lake, fed by the Battle River. That source depends entirely on rainfall and snowmelt. In dry seasons, lake levels drop dangerously.
We are already under mandatory water restrictions in Stage 1 once raw water storage falls below a certain threshold. These measures help, but they are not enough long-term.
Driedmeat Lake has limited capacity. As droughts become more frequent, our current system becomes increasingly fragile.
Distance matters. Hay Lakes is only about 32 km north of Camrose. Edmonton water is already being supplied through the Capital Region Southwest Water Services Commission (CRSWSC) to Hay Lakes, proving that pipelines and sourcing from Edmonton can be done in this area.
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Why this matters
If Edmonton water can be sent to Hay Lakes, just minutes away, then Camrose should be exploring similar options or negotiating with existing systems instead of waiting years to act. The solution is near us, both geographically and technically. Yet we keep debating when we should be implementing.
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What I will do
If elected, here is how I will lead on water:
1. Initiate immediate feasibility for connecting to Edmonton or CRSWSC infrastructure
I will push for an in-depth feasibility and cost study on connecting Camrose to existing regional water systems like Edmonton’s. If viable, I will drive partnerships, funding applications, and timelines for implementation, not just discussion.
2. Increase storage capacity and security
Camrose must expand both treated and raw water storage to ensure we have a safe buffer during drought years. I will prioritize this as essential infrastructure investment.
3. Hold industry to account
Major water users will be expected to demonstrate efficiency and responsible use. We cannot afford unchecked industrial consumption while residents are asked to cut back.
4. Provide transparency and deadlines
Any study, proposal, or project will come with clear deliverables, budgeted costs, and public deadlines. Study completed by X date, decision by Y, implementation begins Z. No open-ended promises.
5. Support public conservation through incentives
I will expand rebate programs for water-saving fixtures and promote solutions like rainwater capture and drought-resistant landscaping, making conservation easy, affordable, and community-driven.
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My Statement
I am running for mayor because Camrose deserves leadership that acts, not one that keeps studying problems while water levels drop.
We are dangerously dependent on Driedmeat Lake, and every year we inch closer to crisis. Meanwhile, Edmonton water is already running to Hay Lakes, just a short distance away. If they can do it, so can we.
I will push to connect Camrose to supplemental water sources, expand storage, hold industries accountable, and ensure transparent, timely progress the public can track.
Ten years of talking. Ten years of warnings. It is time for action, and I am ready to lead it.
On October 20th, vote Shauna Chrabaszcz for Mayor, and let us secure Camrose’s water future together.
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What is your position on the City of Camrose’s recent decision to make rental property owners responsible for the payment of City utilities?
The recent decision to make rental property owners responsible for the payment of City utilities has raised understandable concern within the community. This change will have a significant impact on both landlords and tenants, and it deserves open discussion and transparency.
It is troubling that misinformation appears to have influenced council’s decision on this matter. This bylaw affects many residents and businesses, and it should be revisited through a proper public hearing with all the accurate and transparent fact being put out in the open, where all voices can be heard. If elected, I will strongly advocate for that process to ensure decisions like this are made with accurate information and full community input.
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What will you do to support vulnerable populations, including seniors, youth and low-income families? How will you ensure Camrose remains a welcoming and inclusive community for all residents?
Supporting our vulnerable populations, including seniors, youth, and low-income families, begins with listening and ensuring that their needs are part of every decision made at City Hall. I believe a strong community is one that takes care of its people, especially those who need a helping hand.
For seniors, that means maintaining access to affordable housing, reliable transportation, and healthcare support so they can continue to live independently and with dignity. For youth, it means creating opportunities, safe spaces, mentorship programs, and pathways into local jobs that give them a reason to build their future here in Camrose.
For families struggling to make ends meet, I want to work with community organizations, the province, and local businesses to strengthen partnerships that provide affordable housing, food security, and access to vital services.
Camrose should be a place where everyone feels they belong. That means fostering inclusion not through talk, but through action by supporting community events, encouraging collaboration among diverse groups, and ensuring that City Hall is open, transparent, and responsive to all residents.
Together, we can make Camrose a community that not only welcomes people but truly helps them thrive.
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What is your position on expanding transit options, including the new FlixBus pilot program to Edmonton? Northside is where the families and individuals that need transit most often live, and yet have gone long without service leaving them without options to get to jobs and appointments daily, how will you fix this problem?
Thank you for raising this important topic. Access to reliable and affordable transportation is a key issue for many residents, especially those living on the north side of Camrose. It affects families, seniors, students, and workers who need dependable ways to get to jobs, appointments, and other daily activities.
I support expanding transit options within the city and exploring regional connections like the new FlixBus pilot program to Edmonton. These kinds of partnerships can help fill gaps while we work toward longer-term solutions that meet the needs of our community.
As mayor, I would advocate for a full review of our local transit system to ensure equitable service across all neighbourhoods, including the north side. This means looking at route coverage, frequency, and affordability, while also engaging residents directly to understand where the greatest needs are.
Camrose should be a community where everyone can move freely and access opportunities. By working together with residents, businesses, and regional partners, we can create a system that truly connects all parts of our city.