Almost all the current Athabasca County councillors will have to turn back challengers if they hope to retain their seats.
Following Monday’s close of nominations for the Oct.18 municipal election, only current county Reeve David Yurdiga gained his seat by acclamation, in Division 7 (Grassland).
All seven of the other incumbents seeking re-election will have to head to the polls. The exception is in Division 1 (Rochester), where incumbent Larry Speers is not seeking re-election. His vacated seat will be contested between former councillor Allen Balay and new candidate Victor Cumbleton.
In Division 2 (Colinton-New Pine Creek), incumbent Charlie Ashbey faces off with Denis Willcott.
In Division 3 (Boyle), incumbent Doris Splane faces two challengers, Wes Kowalchuk and Wayne Plamondon.
In Division 4 (Forfar), incumbent Brian Bahry is challenged by Christi Bilsky.
In Division 5 (Athabasca East), incumbent Kevin Haines will share the ballot with Wendy Jewell.
In Division 6 (Wandering River), incumbent Jack Dowhaluk takes on Jennifer Batiuk.
In Division 8 (Baptiste/Island Lakes), incumbent Larry Armfelt runs against Colleen Loziak.
Finally, in Division 9 (Richmond Park), incumbent Michael Demko is challenged by Larry Manysiak.
