Athabasca residents will have four choices in the Feb. 6 byelection to elect a new town councillor.
The nomination period came to a close Monday at noon, and Barbara Bell, Angela Betts, Joanne Peckham and Colleen Powell all signed on as official candidates.
Candidates had from 10 a.m. until noon to file their papers at the town office. Betts, Bell and Powell all registered to be official candidates within 10 minutes of each other. Peckham, who arrived 40 minutes after Powell, was the last candidate to file her nomination papers.
Betts attended three council meetings before nomination day and said she found the experience to be rewarding. She watched how council interacted, and drew on each other’s strengths.
“I am a community liaison. If anyone has any questions or concerns, feel free to let me know,” she said. “I want to make things happen.”
Bell said that she will be a voice for the people.
“You tell me what you want to hear or see at council and I will present your view,” she said. “I am not making any promises because I believe I am a lone soldier going into enemy territory.”
Bell said she believes in truth, honesty, fairness and accountability.
“I believe respect is earned and not given, and I will work hard to earn the respect of the people,” she said.
Powell, a former mayor of Athabasca, said she wants to see a range of candidates, and is hoping there will be many lively debates.
“The Chamber of Commerce traditionally holds a candidates forum,” Powell noted. “I feel strongly in giving back to the community.”
Powell encouraged residents to get involved, and to get out and vote.
“I believe my experience has prepared me for what is to come,” she said. “I know that I will have to devote 10-15 hours a week, and I have that time.”
Finally, Peckham is looking forward to an exciting campaign and an interesting election.
“I’m hoping for lots of publicity to keep it known that there will be an election, to make it very user friendly,” she said. “I’m glad to see people came out, and I am totally available to anyone for any questions or discussion.”
The advance poll will be held on Jan. 28.
