ATHABASCA – A retired political staffer, recreational therapist, and behavioral specialist is planning on making the jump to the public side of public service during the 2025 municipal election.
Darryl Shott, 55, is the first candidate to file his formal paperwork for the Division 7 riding, which includes the hamlets of Grassland and Atmore. A long-time resident of the region, Shott said he felt it was time to throw his hat in the ring after spending much of his career working for politicians.
“Many people in this area have been asking me (if I would run) for quite some time now,” said Shott in an Aug. 26 interview.
“I’m running now because I’ve been told our region is often forgotten and they need stronger advocacy, and I’m the guy to do that.”
Through his time as a parliamentary staffer – Shott worked for Member of Parliament (MP) David Yurdiga back when Athabasca County was in the Fort McMurray-Cold Lake riding – Shott said he developed strong relationships with not only people in and around Athabasca, but also neighbouring municipalities. He’s hoping those connections will help bring a strong presence to the county council chambers in October.
“I’ve worked in that capacity before serving the members of this community and beyond for several years. I know exactly how to respond to people; I’m very solutions-oriented. I do my research, I’m a great, strong advocate for people. I’ve got many years under my belt,” said Shott.
While he didn’t identify a specific issue he felt the county was facing that needed to be dealt with, Shott did say he wanted to operate on a ratepayer-first type model.
“People have always been priority since I can remember; serving them, I’m making sure that there are solutions to their issues, and I’m talking to them transparently and openly,” he said.
“Keeping an open door policy where they feel free to call you or come over and talk to you. I really like that, and it works.”
While he didn’t talk about issues he felt were the most impactful, Shott did identify some common themes he’s heard from his neighbours in the community: roads, dust control, and, most recently, the state of agricultural emergency Athabasca County declared.
“One thing that the federal position has taught me is to only speak on facts and research. Not everything requires a response at that moment. Sometimes, people just want to be heard, and I’m doing this so I can be the strongest voice for them in the community and at the county table,” he said.
“Everyone in Grassland, everyone’s a hard worker. They’re good people here and in the surrounding areas. We’ve got Al-Pac in our area, we have Highway 63 with residents from Fort McMurray coming and going. It’s a really awesome location.”
