Serving the communities of Rimbey, Bentley, Bluffton, Winfield, Alder Flats and Buck Lake
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
www.rimbeyreview.com
Volume 14 Number 27
Central Alberta Raceways was a busy place July 23 with several classes of races going head to head on the racetrack. The weather was favorable for the most part, although the showers, that had threatened all day, became a reality later in the evening. No. 8, Granny’s Racing Team, driven by Leo Chow took an unexpected spin while No. 17, drven by Shawn Burgal took off in the right direction during the mini stock (a new local class) race. (See story on page 13) APN Photo
Town council candidates square off at public forum By Treena Mielke The condition of the roads, tax incentives, fly-by-night developers and the new swimming pool were issues raised at a forum for the two candidates vying in the upcoming byelection for a spot on council. About 40 people showed up for the library-sponsored forum held at Rimbey Community Centre, moderated by librarian Jean Keetch. Questions from the audience fielded by candidates Scott Ellis and Wayne Clark were slow in coming, but momentum picked up slightly, though the formal portion of the event was over in a little more than an hour and most of the 100-cup coffee urn remained unused. Clark, the first speaker to introduce himself, reminded the crowd he was a for-
mer councillor, having served six years in the position. He urged those present to remember his time on council in a positive light, and stressed, if elected he would do his part to encourage development and growth. “The present council seems to be antidevelopment and against progress,” he said, noting there are more vacant buildings in town than there has been in the past and the population has decreased. He also slammed council for continual pool repairs, which have resulted in frequent shutdowns. “The pool has been closed for more days than it has been open,” he said. Ellis, in his introductory talk, stressed the importance of council working with the public. “A community requires people to make them strong. It takes us all to work together
and I think Rimbey is a wonderful place to live. I think it has a great community spirit and I just want to build on that.” When no questions appeared to be forthcoming from the floor, Keech asked the candidates for their views on library services. “There is a desperate need for a larger (library) building,” she said. “We’re fortunate to have a library of the magnitude that we do,’ said Clark. “Maybe a joint venture with the County of Ponoka and help from service clubs could also come into play (to help with funding a new library).” Ellis said he understood tha the role of libraries continues to evolve. “I can appreciate your need for more space,’ he said. “It boils down to priorities. We would need to find out where the priori-
ties are.” A question came from the floor as to how the candidates would stimulate growth in town. “That’s a billion-dollar question,” said Ellis. “Many communities are struggling with that.” Retaining a small town feel and getting the word out about the diverse population, the modern hospital and other positive features about Rimbey will encourage people to consider making the community their home, he said. “We can’t copy other models. We have to remain unique.” Bringing back tax incentives would encourage more businesses, said Clark. “Those incentives still exist today,’ he said. Continued on Page 6
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