Former personnel trainer with the Calgary Airport and father-of-three, David McKenzie is hoping residents will grant him a seat on Beiseker council on Oct. 21.
The 17-year resident of the village of about 800 people, is hoping to see more internal spending by council to encourage local tradespeople to be contractors for the village.
“ I want to see more internal spending,” he said. “I want to keep the (work) in Beiseker, instead of contracting out to Calgary or Red Deer contractors.”
In addition to promoting local spending and local business, McKenzie would like to see tourism projects – such as the Railway museum project – through to completion.
“I want to make Beiseker more attractive to people,” he said. “I would also like to attract more businesses to come into the (village).”
McKenzie added he would like to raise the village’s profile, by promoting its strengths.
“We’re a big hockey town, just like Irricana, so I’d like to make that known,” he said.
McKenzie moved to Beiseker 17 years ago from Calgary, so his family could be nearer to his sister-in-law, and immediately fell in love with the small-town community.
“We just fell in love with it,” he said. “I think it’s the people (that make it attractive) and the atmosphere.”
McKenzie told residents at the Beiseker forum held Oct. 8 at the community centre, that the village was a great place to raise kids and get to know your neighbours.
He says people should vote for him because he can relate well with others.
“I’m a common guy,” he said. “I make common-sense decisions. I want to make a difference in this town. I want to see it profitable and self-sufficient.”
