After years of serving Rocky View County (RVC) as a member of various boards and committees, Division 5 resident Jerry Gautreau has announced his intention to run for a seat on council in the upcoming municipal election.
“I’ve always wanted to give back to county residents in a positive way,” Gautreau said. “Running for council is the next step – to represent not only the people in my own division, but in the county as a whole. The voices of Division 5 have spoken to me loud and clear about what they want to see, and that voice needs to come to the table.”
Gautreau currently works as a safety officer with Wild Rose Group, but has also owned a number of businesses. His educational background is extensive – he earned a doctorate degree in pest control from Purdue University, a business degree from the University of Toronto, and additional degrees in both criminology and social work from Mount Royal University.
“Over the years, I’ve learned how to run a business,” Gautreau said. “And municipal government has got to be run like a business. We have to make proper decisions and be fiscally responsible, and with my background, that’s something I know how to do.”
He’s also gained significant experience working with the county since moving here more than two decades ago. For the majority of that time, Gautreau has sat on the Conrich-Chestermere Recreation Board as a member appointed by council, and is also currently the president of the Chestermere Agricultural Society.
“I sat on the Development Appeal Board as well, and now sit on the Subdivision Appeal Board,” he said. “It’s very important to me to protect the interests of county residents and provide them with an opportunity to make their voices heard, so I’ve tried to be very involved as much as possible.”
Gautreau has spent the past 20 years in RVC living near his wife’s family, who have resided in the area for more than 50 years. His daughters are also living in the county as they pursue their education. He said he plans to stay in RVC, living in a quiet spot out of the city with the convenience of a centralized location.
“I love the people here, and I love hearing about the things that are important to them,” he said. “As long as you understand what’s going on within your area, I think you can bring a strong voice to council – and that’s really what we need from a municipal government.”
