After one term on council, Crossfield mayor Phil McCracken will run again in this fall’s municipal election.
“I feel that my first term was a learning curve,” said McCracken.
“I was learning proper procedures. I feel the taxpayers have made an investment (in me) and that I will be a better mayor (this term).”
McCracken, an electrician by trade, has lived in Crossfield for about 30 years and has raised his family in the town.
Over the years, he has developed a passion for the community and especially enjoys its small, friendly atmosphere.
“The town and the people are my passion,” said McCracken.
McCracken was motivated to run for mayor three years ago after being asked by several community members to do so.
“I thought, maybe its time to give back to the community I grew up in,” said McCracken.
He has particularly enjoyed working with the people and his fellow councillors.
He is proud of council’s accomplishments over the past three years, which have included providing new playground equipment around town, taking part in the Olympic Torch Run and the recent 1,750-acre annexation that will double the size of the town.
“These were things that are important to the community,” said McCracken.
But he says his work isn’t done.
Although McCracken has seen progress, he would like to see better communication and resolution of problems between residents and council during the next term.
“I would like to do a better job communicating with people,” said McCracken. “We have been learning, but we are trying to do better.”
According to McCracken the most difficult part of his job is the personal attacks on himself and fellow councillors and the spread of misinformation that sometimes occurs.
“It has been said that to be a good politician, you have to have thick skin,” said McCracken.
“But it is really hard when you have a passion and care about the people.”
McCracken hopes, during the next term, residents will find council more approachable. He said a better relationship would lead to more satisfaction from ratepayers, as council would get to know their needs and desires and where they would like to see money spent.
McCracken also encourages more residents to come out to council meetings to learn, first hand, what is going on at the Town.
According to McCracken, key items in the next term will be controlled growth and continued management of finances.
“Most people agree that the most important thing is slow growth, said McCracken. “We want Crossfield to have a small town atmosphere.”
McCracken advises upcoming council members to be prepared for hard work, a steep learning curve and sacrifice.
“There is a lot of hard work and a lot of hours that you give up from your family life,” said McCracken.
“But it is worth it because when you do go out and do something that people are happy with, it is a fulfilling feeling.”
