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Mayor Hamilton plans to run for third term

Sep 6, 2016 | 7:00 PM

North Battleford’s mayor is throwing his hat into the ring in hopes for a third consecutive term at the helm.

Though the papers haven’t been officially submitted, mayor Ian Hamilton made it clear he will be running for re-election.

He said there a number of things left unfinished.

“There are a numerous issues I’d like to see to their end or at least further engrain them into our corporate structure,” Hamilton said. “ think there is another term left in me that can continue to contribute to the positive aspects to the development of North Battleford.”

The main issue Hamilton would like to continue work on is reducing the city’s standing in the crime severity index through community initiatives.

As well, Hamilton said regional economic initiatives will be a focus. He said he believes North Battleford has a lot to offer and would like to do a better job convincing businesses to relocate to the city.

Hamilton has been involved in civil politics for 10 years, three on North Battlefords city council and seven as mayor.  

“During that time we have seen significant investment in North Battleford,” he said. “One of the things I ran on was the confidence to invest in ourselves. It was at the height of whether or not we would proceed with the development of the CUplex. I am very pleased to have been a part of that major investment into the city.”

Under his tenure North Battleford was also able to bring in Caleb Village, a retirement home which filled the empty lot left by the old community pool.

As for the future of North Battleford, Hamilton said he was proud to bring in another hotel and strike a deal to build a five screen movie theatre in the downtown core, saying it will attract more restaurants other businesses to the area.

The last time Hamilton ran for mayor he was unopposed and acclaimed, something he would be open to happening again.

“I’m not hoping for competition but I would welcome it,” he said. “If the public thinks the council and I are doing a good job then maybe we won’t see a lot of competition. But I encourage everyone to get involved in our democratic processes. That’s what makes thing better and it always will.”

Anyone interested in running for council can pick up nominations papers at City Hall. Aspiring nominees must have at least five signatures from other registered voters.

The nomination period for North Battleford’s election opened on Sept. 1. Forms will be accepted until Sept. 20 and on nomination day Sept. 21.     

 

Greg Higgins is battlefordsNOW’s city municipal affairs and health reporter. He can be reached at ghiggins@jpbg.ca or tweet him @realgreghiggins.