10/27/2026
For a non-political guy, I've sure been thrust into the thick of it this year. I just wanted to remind everyone that tomorrow is Municipal Election Day. I implore everybody to get out and vote. Everyone who has comments to make online about who's doing what wrong, now is the chance you have to make your voice count and have your opinion make an impact.
I've done my best to try to stay publicly neutral on my political beliefs, as I have seen the ugly side of people's assumptions this year. But I can say one thing. Although we were hit with an unprecedented s**t storm from the flooding, we need to remember one thing. It WAS unprecedented in our area. It required a ton of quick thinking, boots on the ground, and fast decision making in areas that never had to be explored before. I commend all the municipalities, Reeves, Mayors, Councilors and any townsfolk who got involved. I did my best to speak up on everyone's behalf when I was asked to. I can only speak to my personal experiences when it comes to candidates. I can personally say that Lance had great communication with me, and moved quickly when we saw how bad the flooding was going to be at this end of town. If you think he's done a good job and would like to see him see this situation through, show it by casting your vote. I don't know Ainslie personally, but she seems to have some good ideas and enthusiasm. If you think she can do better, show it by casting your vote. If you live in one of the RM's and were happy with the way things are, show it by casting your vote. If you think it's time for a change, show it by casting your vote.
I am the utmost respect for anyone who has the guts and skin to put their name on a ballot, and are willing to stand as a figurehead for making decisions for their community. The scrutiny that comes with that would be unbearable. I remain friendly and respectful to all candidates and elected officials, it's a learn as you go type job. Nobody walks in with all the answers. Problems like addiction, the crime rate, navigating provincial flood relief come with no easy answers. It's very easy to say "Something needs to be done" or "Council needs to get off their asses..." There aren't easy solutions to some of this, but they're trying. The GIS is absolutely hammering down on problem houses and people in the community. There is one great example of multiple jurisdictions coming together for a solution. And it's working. We need more of that.
I am a firm believer in fair elections, and I will stand behind anyone who gets elected. Your power for your say in the next 4 years comes TOMORROW. Not complaining on Facebook for the next 4 years. If you don't make an effort to get out there tomorrow, you have no right to complain. At the end of the day, these elected officials succeeding in their objectives for the community means we are all succeeding. Let's come together as a community and stop throwing mud at each other. This is why elections exist in the first place. Good luck to all candidates, and see you at the polls!
And don't forget this whole Valley is a community, and you can't spell community without Unity. I'm optimistic about the next term, because after what we've all dealt with this year, things can only go up.
Dan Grazier (No AI!)
