After one term on Rocky View County council, Division 2 Councillor Mitch will not be running for re-election.
“After six years of service to Rocky View (three with the Fire Department and three on council) and after considerable thought and numerous family discussions, I have decided not to seek re-election this fall,” said Yurchak. “Instead, I will re-focus on the family business and spend more time with my wife and children.”
Yurchak enjoyed his time on council, especially representing the people of Springbank. He is proud of some of his achievements, such as hiring a new RCMP officer, getting the area recognized as an official response area with 911, and the opening of a Community Police Office at the Park for All Seasons.
Yurchak is proud that council was able to maintain a balanced budget with no tax increase this year.
“We have all enjoyed the benefits of one of the lowest mill/tax rates in the province of Alberta,” he said. “I was pleased to be involved and see implemented the five-year capital budget, which if adhered to, should help to maintain the low tax rates.”
Another notable achievement has been the relationships formed between several county groups such as council and the Rocky View School Division. Creating a better working relationship between the Calgary Airport Authority and the County has been a special focus for Yurchak.
“A lot of work has gone into the Rocky View West Recreation Board, especially by the hardworking volunteers,” said Yurchak. “It has been very rewarding to work with such a progressive and thoughtful group of individuals with a strong focus and interest in broad-based community amenities.”
Another personal focus for Yurchak has been to increase developer participation in funding soft amenities such as policing, fire, recreation and pathways.
“It has been an issue I’ve spoken to and insisted be present in all applications county-wide,” said Yurchak.
Despite the successes, Yurchak says there is some unfinished business.
He hopes the upcoming council will continue to be more proactive in its communication and engagement with local residents and businesses.
Additionally, he wants future reeves to be elected, not appointed by elected councillors. He would also like to see higher pay for councillors.
“The positions of reeve and council are no longer part-time positions,” said Yurchak. “In order to do the job effectively, they must be viewed as full-time positions and should pay accordingly with competitive rates that will attract people with relevant experience and qualifications to lead Rocky View.”
Another disappointment for Yurchak was how the Calgary Regional Partnership turned out.
“I participated in countless hours of meetings with the Calgary Regional Partnership and unfortunately, that did not turn out the way Rocky View hoped and the best decision was to remove ourselves from the process,” said Yurchak. “However, I believe this is not the last of it and it is critical that better relationships are formed with the City of Calgary and the Province of Alberta to ensure a fair deal for Rocky View.”
Despite stepping down, Yurchak maintains a passion for Springbank and Rocky View. He values his experience on council.
“Having had this opportunity to both work and socialize with so many residents from all corners and walks of life in Springbank is something I will value and cherish forever,” said Yurchak.
