The world of politics is no stranger to Crossfield mayoral candidate Nathan Anderson.
Although it is his first time running for office, the 31-year-old father of three grew up knocking on doors and discussing politics at the dinner table with his parents and siblings.
Anderson, who has lived in Crossfield for five years, has also served on the Constituency Association for the Wildrose Alliance Party and helped both Ted Morton, Foothills-Rocky View MLA, and his older brother Rob Anderson, Airdrie-Chestermere MLA, with their campaigns.
“I have been actively involved and understand the political process,” said Anderson. “I am not naďve to the dark side of politics in that you have to stick to your principles, despite some people not liking it.”
Now, Anderson, a successful entrepreneur who has recently freed up a good portion of his time to pursue his passions, is seeking to couple a life-long interest in politics with an appreciation of his community.
“I am passionate about helping and I am passionate about politics,” said Anderson. “I have this opportunity, and I have the ability to do this full time. This is about...giving the people that I love the chance to be as prosperous and successful as they can be.”
Anderson said Crossfield is in an excellent place to enjoy a bright future.
“It can maintain its small town flavour while having moderate growth,” said Anderson. “That is not to just say we should run wild with expansion, but in order to be a vibrant community, we need a bit of growth.”
Key to that growth is attracting the right kind of business and industrial owners and making the process smoother between existing businesses and the Town, said Anderson.
“My attitude is that we should be open to sitting down with our business owners and industrial sector, and help them navigate the red tape,” said Anderson. “We should be courting these people.”
Anderson said his political ties and non-divisive stance makes him the best candidate for mayor.
Although he doesn’t agree with it, Anderson said the current system forces municipalities to lobby the Province to get tax money back to do critical projects. In Crossfield, there are several infrastructure improvements needed, such as redoing roads and sewer lines.
“These are things that cost money and take provincial support,” said Anderson. “I feel I can be the strongest voice for Crossfield on a Provincial level. I could be a strong lobbiest.”
During his campaign, Anderson has learned residents have other concerns such as the Town’s lack of communication, accessibility and accountability when it comes to spending.
“There is an absolute tension in the air that shouldn’t be there,” said Anderson. “I have knocked on over 300 doors and the common theme is that people feel intimidated and that they can’t approach the town.”
If elected, Anderson said he would hold informal community forums to let residents speak with elected officials. He would also provide fiscal transparency and limit in-camera meetings.
“I don’t think we need to hide anything,” said Anderson. “Even if what is being done is perfectly legitimate, it gives a sense of illegitimacy when it is done behind closed doors. There needs to be a far more open dialogue between government and people, especially at a municipal level.”
Another controversial issue for the Town, said Anderson, is the proposed civic hall, which some residents feel should not be funded through debt.
“Governments should live within their means,” said Anderson. “They should not look at raising taxes to build projects. I feel we can build this without burdening our tax payers.”
If elected, Anderson said he would work to earn the trust of his constituents and would strive to respect fellow councillors.
“A diverse group of people in council is important so every angle is considered,” said Anderson. “I think it is also important that we have respect in council, which is seemingly missing in Crossfield.”
