Thirteen people from within the many streets, neighborhoods, lifestyles and backgrounds that encompass the melting pot that is the town of Outlook have thrown their names into the proverbial hat in the hopes of securing your vote in the 2020 Municipal Election; 11 candidates seeking the six available seats on Outlook’s town council and two candidates seeking the role of Mayor. All of them have brought their names forward publicly and are hoping to be granted the opportunity to represent this community in a leadership capacity.
For this endeavor, all these candidates are to be commended. This is a special town with its own unique traits, qualities, and challenges, and it takes a special kind of person to serve the many needs of all who call Outlook home.
This year’s election is without a doubt a hotly contested race, with residents holding a vested interest in the outcome after the ballots have been tallied.
With that in mind, we here at The Outlook put the candidates in the hot seat with a special questionnaire that was delivered to each of them. Participation was entirely voluntary, but we are happy to see that each of them took the time to respond to our questions and help residents get to know their takes on a multitude of topics.
We asked, they answered. Whether or not their views and opinions resonate with the public is up to YOU, the Voter. We hope that you will take the time to read each candidate’s Q&A feature and that their responses in some way help you decide who will receive your support.
Most importantly, we hope that on Monday, November 9, you will exercise your right to VOTE.
Happy reading,
Staff
The Outlook
Each candidate was asked the following questions, with the candidates for mayor each getting an extra question to start with.
QUESTIONS
1. I deserve your vote because…
2. What past and/or current experience on committees, organizations and boards do you have that will prepare you for your role on council?
3. Do you believe Outlook stands out from other communities of similar size? If so, how? If not, how can Outlook stand out?
4. With its title of being the ‘Irrigation Capital of Saskatchewan’, Outlook has a unique opportunity to benefit from the announcement this past July of a massive irrigation expansion project centered around Lake Diefenbaker that the government says will more than double the irrigable land in the province. How can Outlook become a central hub for this project and reap the rewards such as new jobs and increased tourism?
5. The COVID-19 pandemic has seen many people flock to online shopping (ex. Amazon) and supporting the ‘Big Box’ stores while small businesses and tourism have suffered in towns much like Outlook. Is there a role for town council to help put small businesses back on the map and promote what we have in our own backyard?
6. What are some of the key issues that you believe need to be addressed in Outlook right now?
Derdall, B. Ross
Candidate for Mayor
Mayor question
Leading up to the last election and during your current tenure as Mayor, you indicated a number of times that you intended to serve only one term. What made you decide to run again?
Thank you for the opportunity to respond to your questions. When I campaigned in the 2016 civic election I stated that I would run to serve only one term of four years and in a recent letter to the editor I stated that I would not run in the next election of 2020. I have changed my mind and I have decided to run again because there was only one candidate declared. I am disappointed because this should never happen in a town the size of Outlook. There should always be multiple candidates running for mayor. Why weren’t there more people interested? The citizens of Outlook deserve and need a choice.
1. I have the continuing interest, experience and dedication to Outlook to be your full time mayor. I will work hard with the new council and continue to be open and transparent. It has been my privilege to serve and work for you.
2. I have lived here all my life, taught school and farmed and I know the history of this area.
- Volunteered on Fire Department for 34 years and was on the fund raising committee for the Jim Kook Recreational Complex.
- Board member/Chairman on Outlook School Division and Sun West School Division for 25 years.
- Served on Outlook Town Council for 3 terms, represented the council on Mid Sask. Reda and Community Futures.
- Currently serving as the Mayor of Outlook.
- Over the years I have worked with many levels and departments in Governments.
3. Yes I do believe that Outlook stands out from other communities and for many different reasons.
- Our location: a beautiful setting on the river bank with access to good water.
- We have all the essential services required. Acute hospital, LTC facility, Medical Clinic and doctors, ambulance service including Stars. RCMP detachment and Volunteer Fire Department, and businesses to meet our needs.
- We have a good clean safe town for families and seniors to live in with lots of recreational facilities, social activities and good schools K to 12 and playgrounds.
- The business sector situated on a heavy haul road that runs right through town. Land is now being made available for economic development.
- The good people of Outlook and volunteerism which is essential in every community.
- Outlook is a very safe and affordable community.
4. The town council must be receptive to the idea of growth and economic development. Our town is in good financial shape. Outlook needs to promote our community and have an economic development plan for what we can do going forward. For example if we are open to a processing plant, the entire town will benefit, more jobs, more people. Another motel/hotel would provide accommodation for visitors and more recreational sporting events, tournaments, provincial playoffs, etc.
5. The Town of Outlook is a secret gem. I have been asked “where have you guys been, or ‘where is Outlook?”
No one will know we are here unless we find ways to get our message out there, lets advertise what we have!
We need a skilled Economic Development person to work with the Council, the business sector, the Chamber of Commerce to develop a plan.
The COVID pandemic will end and when it does we need to be ready with a good plan to keep our town moving forward.
We all need to support our local businesses. They have been excellent by observing the rules of sanitizing, distancing and wearing masks and shielding the staff to help keep us safe. We all need to continue to also observe the rules to ensure that we keep ourselves safe.
6. There needed to be at least one more Town Hall meeting but due to the COVID pandemic we were not allowed to meet in large numbers.
- Potable water is a key issue. An engineering firm is working on plans for a new water in-take and upgrades to the treatment plant. We have asked Federal and Provincial Governments for shared funding. The Town’s cost would be $27 on every $100 spent for these projects.
- Water usage is an issue. To ensure that the Town had enough water, voluntary restrictions were placed on lawn watering.
- The water treatment plant is near to maximum capacity.
- The increase in your utility bill is one of the public issues. Remember this bill is for 3 months of the 4 services of water, sewer, garbage and recycling. The income from all of the utility bills must cover all of the operation, maintenance and repairs cost for our utilities for the year (Water treatment plant, Sewage lagoon, Landfill and Recycling contract) with some money set aside for emergency use and repair and maintenance for these services. To ensure access and safety of good potable water, it takes money. When the water level dropped in the river, the government authorities mandated that the town must rent environmentally safe equipment to move river water to the in-take, a cost in excess of $10,000. The town must follow all the rules and laws.
- We will possibly be getting 2 more doctors in January.
- The new fire hall is another key issue. We really must equip our 20 volunteer fire and rescue personnel with the best fire hall and equipment that we can afford. We ask them to risk their lives to protect us.
- We had to borrow $500,000.00 to complete the swimming pool. The original plan did not include any buildings, none of the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, landscaping, fence and big outdoor lighting. It was a cost of $2.2 million to complete.
- We have Highway 15 that is a heavy haul road running right through town. Presently all of the infrastructure under the Highway is being scoped for any problems to be repaired before the road is paved through town.
- The landfill – we are decommissioning the old landfill. The government rules are extensive and they inspect regularly to ensure compliance. Costs will be in the millions of dollars. We have received 1 Million of that money from a previous grant application.
- East side residential development – the drainage issue is being studied.
- The Civic Centre is in the process of being renovated extensively and the funding is in place with two grants received.
- Streets in Outlook need fixing/paving. The alleys need cleaning up.
- A candidate for the Chief Administration officer has been hired.
Weiterman, Maureen
Candidate for Mayor
Mayor question
You were re-elected in 2016 to serve on council, but you vacated your seat near the end of 2017 due to confidence issues and a lack of faith that you had with town council. Why should residents put their faith behind you as their mayor?
It was gut-wrenching and devastating to resign from council in 2017. I believe it was the right decision at the time and I stand by that decision. The past three years have given the residents of Outlook a chance to see some of what I was concerned about in my time on town council.
Residents should put their faith behind me as mayor because I am committed to serving the community. I’ve lived in Outlook my whole life and care deeply about this place. My reputation stands for itself. Those who know me know I am the first person to raise their hand to volunteer and pitch in wherever required, no matter how difficult the job might be. In 2015, I was honored as the Outlook and District Citizen of the Year. I have volunteered and held numerous leadership roles with a variety of boards and committees in Outlook over the past 50 years. I am committed to serving the full four-year term as mayor and plan to ensure the new council conducts themselves with the highest level of integrity so that we can all hold our heads high, proud of the work we will accomplish. I will put the needs of the residents first as I lead Outlook into its next chapter.
1. I deserve your vote because I have a vision for what the Town of Outlook can be. My four-part strategy for this is: Transparency, Trust, Partnerships and Progress. Prioritizing these areas, I believe we can make Outlook a shining example of good municipal government and a leader in small town Saskatchewan.
I am so encouraged by the group of people who have let their name stand as potential councilors. I would be proud to lead a group of councilors that represent different segments of our community. We do have a way to go to make our council truly diverse and culturally representative of our community. It’s 2020 and it’s time for a change.
2. I have corporate knowledge having served on council for seven years. I was born and raised in Outlook and have spent the majority of my life here. I have volunteered in our community for over 50 years – from a candy striper at the hospital to chair, secretary or treasurer of almost every organization I have been involved with. Here are some examples of the ways I’ve served our community:
Current
• President of Equinox Theatre
• Member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #262
including assisting with the Veterans Memorial
Project/Park
• Volunteer for the Outlook Community Garden
Past
• Chairman of Bethlehem Lutheran Church Council
• Member of the Board of Education, Outlook School Division No. 32
• Chair of the Outlook Local School Board
• Treasurer of the Outlook Pottery Club
• Treasurer of the Outlook Skating Club
• Secretary of the Outlook Museum
• Secretary of the Outlook and District Chamber of Commerce
• President of the Outlook and District Play School
• President of the Outlook Band Parents Association
• Music librarian for the Outlook School bands
• Honored Royal Lady of the Order of the Royal Purple Outlook Chapter
• Barn Owl for Brownies and Leader for Sparks (Girl Guides of Canada)
In 2015 I was honored as the Outlook and District Citizen of the Year. In 2012 I directed the musical, White Christmas which was honored as the Event of the Year. In 2018 I was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #262 who were honored as Organization of the Year.
The support I have received to date exemplifies the realization of our ratepayers that my active participation in the community clearly shows my love of Outlook and area.
3. Yes, I do believe that Outlook stands out from other communities, but not always in the way that we would like. Our town is fortunate to be situated on the banks of the South Saskatchewan River. We have schools and churches that have been here for over 100 years. We have businesses that support our community. We are culturally diverse. We are blessed with a tremendous amount of artistic talent. We have incredible potential, but I don’t think we have always lived up to it. I would like to see our community encourage each other to do our best, work to make our town beautiful and look forward with anticipation to the opportunities that will become available with the new irrigation expansion project.
4. I agree that we do have an opportunity here. However, it is not going to be handed to us on a silver platter. I believe that we need to rebuild and strengthen our relationships with our ratepayers, town employees and surrounding rural municipalities and communities. We have to be prepared with property for business and new homes. We need to be sure that our infrastructure is in good working order and up to date. We need to be open to new business of all types. We have to put in the work if we are going to reap the rewards!
5. I believe council has a role to play in supporting and promoting existing local businesses but we also need to be open to new opportunities. We as a community need to support our local businesses if we want to them to remain. We need to put our money where our mouth is. People will not stop here unless we give them a reason to.
6. 1. The new fire hall project – I support a new fire hall – one that meets our requirements and is within our financial means. Clearly it needs to be bigger than a garden shed but we don’t need the Taj Mahal.
2. Development of residential property – the Mann Street project has been idle too long. Decisions need to be made one way or the other on where it will go. If the Mann Street project is not completed, we need to be prepared to develop the North part of Town.
3. Water – we have some of the best water in the world running right by our doorstep. We need to review our intake/storage/treatment/delivery systems in detail ensuring that they meet our current needs as well as positions us for the future.
4. Making Outlook an outstanding example of municipal government – Retain a town administrator, empower town employees to do their jobs effectively without interference or micromanagement from council and build a council that will hold each other to the highest standard of integrity following the legislation laid out by municipal affairs.
Bruce, Sharon
Candidate for Council
1. I am not sure that “deserve” is the right word. I think public service is about serving the community. I hope I am worthy of the votes.
2. At a local level, I have been an active member of the Outlook and District Chamber of Commerce for more than ten years, many of those I have spent on the board. I spent six years on the Trade Show committee, and Santa Claus Day committee, four years on the Citizen of the Year committee, and the committee for the Harvest Festival. I was on the Outlook and District Playschool Board for four years. On a profession level, I was on the Saskatchewan Mutual Insurance Broker Advisory Committee for seven years, Insurance Brokers Rural Advisory Committee for two and the Registered Deposit Brokers Advisory Committee for five. I am still a current member of the last two.
3. Outlook is unique compared to other communities of a similar size because of our proximity to both Saskatoon and to Lake Diefenbaker. We still have a small town, safe community but are less than an hour to an airport. We have all required amenities and are less than 30 minutes to a great resort, which is growing and developing each year. We also have the gift of having the regional park in our back yard.
4. The community must be open to change and development in order to grow. We have to listen to new ideas. We also have to be prepared for some hurdles. Inevitably, with some change there will be some growing pains. We can’t remain in a stagnating bubble to avoid it.
5. As both a business owner and a member of the Chamber of Commerce, this is a concern that is forefront to me. The business community is the backbone of any community. We need to be able to support businesses so that they can employ staff locally. We also need to keep expenses, like local taxes reasonable so that businesses can keep prices in line with competitors. We can’t expect people to shop locally if it is a detriment to them. Local ownership is also important. Someone who both lives and works in a community has a vested interest in the economic health of that community.
6. We must learn how to collaborate with the communities and RMs around us. Whether this means shared resources to reduce costs or working with mutually beneficial ideas. We need open communication and partnerships if we are going to move forward on development. I also have concerns with taxation. This cannot be the only form of income for the town. We are about to enter what could be a time of great opportunity for Outlook and the surrounding area. It is very important that we are in a position to embrace it.
Grotheim, Kevin
Candidate for Council
1. I believe that a vote for Kevin Grotheim means that the community gets somebody with deep roots in the community going back to my grandparents settling here over 100 years ago, helping start this community. I feel an obligation to them, just as I do to the current voter, to make this town the best it can be. With me you get an open, logical thinker, that I feel can work with others to get to the best outcome for every situation/decision that is asked of a councillor. It’s not only for our current generation, but for my daughter’s generation and then her child’s generation that our decisions affect, which I always try to think of in my decision making process. I know that I have only been on council for 2 years, but I feel that if given the chance, I can make a lot of positive choices in the next 4 years.
2. I believe that my experience in the last 2 years being on town council/committees have given me valuable experience and lessons that will serve me well in the future. I am continually learning and hopefully improving as I gain the experience in serving my community.
3. I do believe Outlook stands out. We have a beautiful downtown with many diverse businesses to be proud of. Our Regional Park being located on the cusp of town and our irrigation district are something that we are very fortunate to have that others don’t. We have a fantastic community that I think is ready to take on our province’s future irrigation endeavour, giving us a chance to grow, but also allowing us to take greater care in what we already have. I think we should be proud to have all the beautiful recreational facilities that we do, like our new pool, new outdoor rink, our indoor rink, parks, golf course, to name a few.
4. Being the “Irrigation Capital of Saskatchewan,” we need to maintain and grow our relationship with the province and SaskWater. We have an opportunity to be the hub of not only construction, but the operations and maintenance of this project. With our supply of water, we can also promote and hopefully bring in some diverse processors with the growth of new acres of crops and vegetables. As long as this is taken in a balanced approach, I think this community has the blueprints for success, both financially and socially.
5. I think if us as a community promote our local businesses through our strong chamber of commerce, that is the best way to support local business. I also think if we can get some roads and sidewalks in better condition, it will encourage people to be downtown.
6. I feel one of the main issues we have in this community is our infrastructure. Our roads need a lot of TLC, we are in the process of water treatment expansion planning, our lagoon is nearing capacity and we need to have some commercial/industrial lots available in the next few years. These are large tasks that with proper planning and coordination we can achieve. I think with our province’s irrigation announcement, we may have an opportunity for a successful working partnership to get some of these items taken care of with the intention of helping them get their project completed. I have been party to discussions about a new firehall. The fire department has informed us that there is a need, I think with proper public consultation, we can accomplish filling a void that seems to be required while still wisely using taxpayers’ money.
Husband, Ryan
Candidate for Council
1. I believe Outlook is a great place to live and that there is a lot of opportunity for our community. I’m an engineer with experience in infrastructure management. I’ve been involved in many boards and my family enjoys participating in community events. I also believe that our leadership should be kind, courteous and respectful and I endeavour to embody those qualities.
2. I’ve been on a number of governing bodies including the Riverbend Golf Course board and Haskap Canada. In my role as an engineer, I’ve worked with many boards and have learned and watched how high performing boards guide effective organizations. I’ve also taken a two day board governance training course and I recommend all of our elected officials take a similar course.
3. Outlook stands out in many ways. We have access to services that other towns in similar situations don’t have like multiple car and implement dealerships, banks, a dentist, a hospital, and schools that offer vocational electives. We need good governance that will help our community grow so we can maintain these services and attract new ones as well.
4. Irrigation is key to our local economy. Outlook needs to be willing to work with the government, neighboring municipalities and construction companies to attract people and funds to our community. This project presents us with a huge opportunity for long term resiliency and prosperity in Outlook. It’s important that we find innovative ways to maximize the benefit to our town.
5. Town council must lead by example by supporting our local businesses. It’s important that citizens do take advantage of the many great businesses we have in Outlook because those businesses are operated by friends and family. However, it’s also important that we encourage our small businesses to move online and sell their amazing products to the world. That way we can import money from other places to spend locally. Council should work with local organizations to provide training to our fantastic small businesses who could thrive in an online marketplace.
6. We need to ensure that our existing infrastructure and facilities are in good shape so that we can focus on the growth opportunities that will come over the next decade. I want to ensure our seniors have access to good healthcare, our families have opportunities to prosper and that our children have places to learn and grow. I believe that I can help guide us over our obstacles ensuring Outlook remains a great place to call home!
Lee, Jill
Candidate for Council
1. I think the citizens of Outlook need strong, positive voices on council, and I can offer that. If I am fortunate enough to be elected, I will actively listen to community members on the issues that matter to them, be open and honest, and serve my community to the best of my ability.
2. I’ve previously sat on the Outlook and District Museum Board, Outlook and District Art Council, and the board for Prairie Central District for Sport, Culture, and Recreation. I have also had the unique experience of working at Epcot at Walt Disney World as a cultural representative at the Canadian Pavilion. These opportunities taught me the need to work together, to look at the bigger picture, and that we need to show respect for one another especially when there is a difference of opinion.
3. Yes, I think Outlook stands out from other communities with its beautiful river bank location. However, a creative approach that acknowledges and supports the golf course, regional park, pool, and the museum as well as new initiatives that bring people to our town will be key to to the success and growth of Outlook as a tourist destination. Council will need to continue to champion Outlook and all it has to offer.
4. I think we need to recognize, support, and collaborate with CSIDC, SSRID and SIPA, which have been providing services and support to the irrigation and agriculture community for decades. Council may also have a role to play in encouraging provincial and federal governments to ensure that the funding necessary to complete this entire project will remain in place.
5. While the Covid-19 pandemic has driven more sales to ecommerce, the trend in that direction has been happening over the past few years, and it will continue to grow regardless of Covid-19. We’ve already seen the resiliency of our business community during this pandemic. From updating their online stores, and utilizing the ever evolving role of social media, they have come up with creative ways to stay open, even if their doors were closed. If we start thinking of the bigger picture, the kind of knowledge and ideas needed to drive change and a better business environment are going to come from the businesses themselves with the support from council. I think council will need to find ways to work with the local business community and have open dialogue on what challenges, constraints, and opportunities they are facing. One thing is for sure, we need to continue to shop local, eat local, and support the businesses that form the backbone of our community.
6. A few key issues I think need to be addressed are communication and how information flows down to the citizens and continue to rebuild both relationships and community spirit.
McLeod, Kyle
Candidate for Council
1. I enjoy watching the town grow and move forward. I was born and raised in this wonderful town and wouldn’t change my life for anything. I’ve had a small business here since 2008 and continue to run it today. I have three amazing kids and wouldn’t want to raise them anywhere else. I’ve really enjoyed serving the community on council for the last 4 years and hope to serve for another 4 years.
2. I’ve been on numerous committees when serving on council. Recreation committee, Infrastructure committee, Occupational Health and Safety committee just to name a few and each one brings their own challenges. I’ve also been a member of the Outlook Fire Department since 2009.
3. I think the town stands out pretty well now but there’s always room for improvement. We have a beautiful park and golf course. We are very lucky to have access to the water source that we do and able to supply good drinking water to the community and surrounding areas. I hope to work on implementing some more incentives to try and draw more business to our town and I think that’s a very achievable goal.
4. We need to get the commercial and residential developments serviced as soon as we get the go ahead so new businesses can come to town. I would like to stay in contact with the government and work with them to accommodate their needs for this project. It’s a huge project and will bring a lot of workers to our town. It will be great for our local businesses.
5. We need to keep reminding people to shop local whether it’s an ad in the local paper or posters at the post office or in store front windows, we need the shop local brand more than ever. It’s very easy to go online and push a button and have pretty well anything delivered right to your door but remember our local businesses will also deliver right to your door as well. I understand there are certain things that we just can’t get in town at the drop of a hat but most everything can be ordered and delivered through a local store. Our small businesses keep our town running so lets do everything we can to keep them here and attract new ones.
6. There are a few issues that need some attention sooner than later in my opinion. I think the need to get residential and commercial lots serviced as soon as they are approved is a key issue. If the irrigation project is going to begin next year we need land for some possible new businesses and residents of our town. The new water intake is another big project that we need to keep looking into and figuring out what’s the best way to go about it. The paving of Mckenzie St. and Saskatchewan Ave. needs to be dealt with also. We will need to work with the government to make a plan on when it can be put into a capital project for them and we can get the infrastructure replaced so we don’t have to dig up brand new pavement. I would like to look at a new approach to a new fire hall. One that’s a bit more budget friendly.
I have enjoyed my last four years on town council. There were quite a few ups and downs but I’ve learned along the way how everything works and hope to serve another four years with a new group of people full of new ideas. I’m proud to call Outlook my home.
McNichol, Ward
Candidate for Council
1. I deserve your vote because I believe I have the ability to work well with town administration and employees while also listening to the concerns of the public.
I’ll be drawing on 50 years of experience with running a business, irrigation farming, dealing with processing companies and the sale of agriculture products.
2. Some of my past related experience includes terms as a councillor for the RM of Rudy, the mayor of Coteau Beach and as a national director for Saskatchewan High School Rodeo.
3. When I moved to Outlook in the 1970s I thought the town could one day rival the economic boom of Taber, Alberta, another irrigation centre. This has not happened. I have watched as Rosetown and Davidson poach away many of our assets. Outlook can stand out by working more effectively with governments, our neighbouring municipalities and all businesses. If we are ready, Outlook can lead the way with housing, campgrounds, restaurants, and motels to accommodate the influx of new workers.
4. We can position Outlook as a central hub for any new government irrigation expansion plans by projecting the town as open for newcomers. We should be devoting more commercial land for new businesses and more residential lots for new housing.
5. I feel the businesses of Outlook have gone above and beyond in delivering services during these difficult times. I know the residents of Outlook and area have done a great job of supporting “local” wherever they can. As a council we need to increase efforts to promote our local businesses.
6. Among the pressing issues confronting Outlook, I think it’s really important that the civic center be completed properly. We should expand our lot supply and prioritize road repairs to the highway corridor through town. We should also work with RM of Rudy and Broderick to make fire fighting a district affair.
I’m in favour of eliminating in-camera meetings wherever possible and keep council meetings open to the public.
McPherson, Thelma
Candidate for Council
1. I am prepared to work hard for the continual betterment of this great community of Outlook. I do not represent any particular interest group, but want to hear ideas for improvements and/or concerns from all the citizens of this community.
2. - Retired Director of Nursing and Administrator of Outlook Hospital,
- prior member of Board of Directors of Outlook and District Regional Park,
- prior member of Outlook Donor’s choice committee,
- am serving or have served on various committees of St. Andrew’s United Church
- communications officer for a local social group.
3. Yes. Outlook is located on the banks of the South Saskatchewan River providing it’s citizens with a beautiful scenic setting. Because of this location, we have a supply of good water that is so vital for a community. With the announcement of the irrigation expansion project we are at the perfect location for economic development opportunities.
4. The Town of Outlook needs to be “open for business”. Economic development is so vital for the future of our community.
To get new jobs and increased tourism, we need to work tirelessly on more economic development. A new business or industry brings more employment opportunities to the community. This in turn creates the need for more services, housing and recreation that also creates more employment opportunities.
The community needs to have its infrastructure and amenities in place ready for future development.
Town council needs to take a collective approach in economic development with our Chamber of commerce, surrounding RM’s and the provincial government as well as the irrigation development center located here.
5. The low numbers of COVID-19 cases in our region is encouraging and indicates that our community is a safe place to be. Therefore, we all need to promote our local businesses as safe places to shop and do business. But we cannot let down our guard. Remember, wearing masks, sanitizing your hands, practicing social distancing and following provincial guidelines are the best ways to keep all of us safe.
6. Outlook is in a great place right now, but we need to see through to completion the projects that are underway right now or about to start in the near future.
Such as:
- Water treatment plant/storage and lagoon upgrades.
- Construction of the new Fire Hall
- Relocation of our public library
- Civic Center renovations
Ongoing concerns are always present and need to be continually monitored and addressed
Such as:
- Health Care Services for our community
- Continual upgrades to the landfill to meet the provincial standards and requirements.
- Adequate municipal staffing to meet the needs of our community.
Pederson, Rick
Candidate for Council
1. I am honest, hardworking and have a passion for the betterment of Outlook. Along with my wife Sally, we have two daughters (Tanya and Wendy) that were born and raised here and are very proud to call Outlook their home.
2. - I was employed by the Town of Outlook for almost 35 years (30 years as Superintendent). I have attended over 300 council meetings.
- Outlook Regional Park Board for 12 plus years (9 years as Chairperson)
- Served on Outlook Curling Rink Building committee
- Served on the Board of Directors for Variety Place and was Chairperson for most of my time on this board
- Served 2-year term on Board of Directors for Sask Waste Reduction Council
- Was awarded Sask Waste Reduction Council individual award
- Served 2-year term on Sask Public Works Association Board of Directors
- Was awarded Sask Public Works Association Award of Merit
- Was awarded Sask Public Works Association’s Public Works Person of the Year
- Was awarded a lifetime membership for Sask Public Works Association
- I am a certified Operator for water treatment, water distribution, waste water collection and waste water treatment
- Was awarded a lifetime membership in Sask Water and Wastewater Association
- Was awarded Sask Urban Municipality Association Meritorious Service Award
- Was awarded Outlook and District Citizen of the Year Award
- Served as Project Manager for Outlook Swimming Pool
3. It did stand out at one time but not so much now. Outlook needs to honk its own horn. With our location and amenities (ie. Regional Park, South Sask River, golf course, health centre) and proximity to a major lake and major cities. We need to let people know what a great place we have to start a business or come live here or retire here.
4. We can become a central hub for the irrigation expansion project. We will need to stay informed by the Feds and Province as this project proceeds. We will have to attend any and all meetings that we can to get our foot in the door, so we can show what we have to offer for business needs that may be required.
5. Yes, there is a role for Town Council to help put small business back on the map. Strongly promote our business to our residents and as well our rural partners (RMs and villages). Meet on a regular basis with local business owners and let them help steer us in the direction they need to be accommodated in.
6. Business and residential lot development as needed. Maintenance issues such as road repair, sidewalk repairs etc. Infrastructure issues, mending relationships with surrounding RMs and villages as well as long term contractors and suppliers that have served Outlook for many years with services not always available in Outlook.
Rankin, Lyle
Candidate for Council
1. I spent my youth in Outlook, and after working out of province for 25 years, I felt drawn to return to my roots. I am committed to Outlook, both professionally and personally, and want to be part of its improvement and development in the future. I have come to know a wide variety of people and organizations through my work in Outlook Rentals. I believe I have a unique perspective that gives me an understanding of how to work for the benefits of this community.
2. • 25 years in civil construction industry as a superintendent and project manager
• president of Outlook Chamber of Commerce for 6 years
• Heartland Health board member for 12 years
• Councilor for Town of Outlook for 4 years (2012-2016)
• Continuing board member of Outlook Health Foundation
• Continuing board member of Community Futures
3. I believe Outlook stands out from other communities. The outstanding location overlooking the South Saskatchewan River makes Outlook a beautiful place to live. Outlook’s citizens have enhanced the attractiveness of town life through such developments as an exceptional regional park and golf course, civic center and swimming pool, and hospital and seniors care home. Our active service group’s contributions are a source of pride for our residents.
4. Being the irrigation capital of Saskatchewan, Outlook needs to be welcoming, open and ready to offer services that will be necessary with this new expansion. This could include such options as opening more residential lots, encouraging new retail development, generating new infrastructure, and making sure that Outlook is prepared to service all aspects of this irrigation project with Outlook as the geographical center!
5. COVID-19 has made us change the way we do things. Online shopping is a major part of our new global economy and is here to stay. It is not our enemy, but rather an opportunity to grow. Outlook businesses need to embrace and profit from using this platform. Town council could possibly offer technical and financial support to encourage this expansion.
6. I believe these are some of the key issues that need to be addressed:
I believe that Outlook leadership is in crisis. Decisive action is required with new perspective for the changing future. COVID-19 is teaching us that we need to be prepared for emergency events with clear directives in place.
We need transparency in all council activities and decisions.
Council needs to have a vision for the future of Outlook, with an agenda that guarantees follow-through.
We need to establish good working relationships with the RM of Rudy and RM of Fertile Valley, as well as working with the Saskatchewan government to get the highway paved through town. We need to ensure water and sewer infrastructure is adequate for the growth of our town.
Stephenson, Bob
Candidate for Council
1. I am a little uncomfortable with being asked why I deserve your vote. Deserving someone’s vote implies that I have already done something for them or for the town and since I am running for an open seat on council I am hoping you will consider me when you enter the voting booth, and should I be fortunate enough to be elected by the citizens of Outlook, that whoever votes for me will look back in four years and be confident that they did make a good choice and I did deserve your vote. I am a business man and resident of the community and have lived here since 1981. I grew up in Outlook, finished high school here, and came back permanently in 1981. My wife and I and our children have been part of Outlook ever since. Two of our boys along with their wives now reside in town along with their children, so yes I am a grandfather! Needless to say, I have a vested interest in this community and will work hard and unselfishly to steer the town in a positive direction.
2. I have been the Mayor of Outlook from 1996 to 2016, sat on the Minor Sports Board, Riverview Golf Club Board, was a member of the Elks organization for years, and served on a multitude of committees while serving as Mayor.
3. For me, and I have stated it often, Outlook has always stood out from communities our size. Now other communities may disagree, and it is only right that they do! Obviously, living here makes one bias, but anyone living in whatever the community should take pride in that community and the people that reside there. As they say in the real estate business “location, location, location”, a huge asset to our community, one that only our forefathers can take credit for dating back to 1908. Our location, on the banks of the South Saskatchewan and an hours drive from a major city is paramount. Water is always key to a prosperous town and that access has been crucial to the town’s growth and the reason why so many people comment on how green our town is, evidenced by the number of trees throughout the community in a town in the middle of the prairies. That same river has allowed us to become the “Irrigation Capital” of the province with the building of the Gardiner Dam and Lake Diefenbaker, two other huge benefits to Outlook. Our proximity to a major city, close but not too close, allows our citizens the access to the amenities of the city but not too close that it allows us to maintain a healthy and fairly diverse business sector that serves not only our residents but also the needs of numerous rural municipalities and villages that surround us. These relationships are all important to this community. Our location also affords us some pretty decent weather (some farmers may disagree, “sorry”), this of course doesn’t include winter but to be considered Saskatchewan tough winter comes in the package. For the most part we have kept a stable population and have grown since 2001. So do we stand out compared to others, I certainly think so, but even with all of the things we have, people will always make your town and I believe that we have a wonderful cross-section of citizens that call Outlook home, a safe place to live and a great place to raise a family.
4. With the announcement of the expanded irrigation project around Lake Diefenbaker, Outlook is already positioned to benefit and be central to such a project. Obviously, the town has to be more than aware of the opportunities such a project may bring but at the same time, whatever council is in place needs to be mindful that we are a community of 2250 people, if my memory serves me approximately 1100 taxpayers. The decisions made by any council should have these taxpayers at the forefront of their plans. Hurrying to accommodate an announced project with no real idea to date, on how the government and project itself is to be rolled out would be foolish and burdensome to taxpayers if councils decide to go to the taxpayer to fund projects in anticipation of what is to come! Projects of this size are usually staged; environmental, soil testing, surveying, reclamation, construction etc. usually come out in stages and not all at once. A recent example is the pipeline project we saw recently that took 3 years to go by and approximately 2 years of reclamation and cleanup. Now this project is obviously different, with obvious spinoffs that will result, but caution needs to be adhered to so as not to overly burden the taxpayer. There are examples out there who have hurried to develop infrastructure and residential and the boom never materialized. I am not cynical, this project will be great for our community and all of the surrounding area, but I am practical. Our citizens are the focal point and decisions moving forward must be well thought out with the taxpayer in mind, as low income and young families do not need unrealistic tax burdens. Believe me, in 20 years as Mayor I have had numerous people tell me how our taxes are too low, that we need to raise taxes to do this or do that, funny thing is that it always comes from those who can afford it and never from lower income families, seniors or young families with kids! Go figure!!
5. Any council can always be involved in promoting their local businesses. Working in concert with the Chamber or hearing out the business community on what concerns might be and how and if the town can help is a responsibility of any council. It is common sense that not every business will be successful. However, if a business person finds a niche or service that the community needs it will most often succeed. Most of all, the onus then lies on the citizens to make use of those businesses so they do remain in the community. “ Shop local” should be a priority for everyone in a community and not an after thought when you can’t get to the city. I don’t begrudge anyone the freedom to shop where ever they want and all of us like to visit the city once in awhile, but if too many decide to forgo what we have in our own community don’t be surprised when you lose it. We are lucky to have a healthy business sector, they’re the ones that take a chance on Outlook, they’re the ones that donate to a multitude of things in town, recreation, the park, parades, charities, the Health Centre and on and on. To my recollection no “big box” has donated to any cause in Outlook. Local business and neighboring businesses do!
6. The main issue that needs addressing is our relationships with our neighboring R.M.s and villages. It is extremely important that these relationships are maintained as cooperation and partnerships are crucial. R.M.s and villages are as much our neighbor as the person living next door. These are the ones that support our businesses, have children in our school, support our pool and recreation, our park, many times swapping services to the benefit of all parties. These neighbors are the reason we have a Health Centre because without the R.M of Rudy, Fertile Valley, and numerous southern R.M.s, and Conquest, Broderick, Glenside, Dinsmore, Milden, Lucky Lake and all that facility would not be there. Many help with our recreation, park, pool and other things beneficial to all. Whoever sits on council needs to fix this. We need a team approach, we need to work together where possible. I think we need to focus on spending, taxation and the number of projects we seem to be chasing all at once. As I said earlier, we are 2250 people, approx. 1100 taxpayers with a mid average of income earners that provide the sustained revenue the town operates on. Careful planning and direction is crucial.
Turton, Justin
Candidate for Council
1. I am asking for your support in this election as I am passionate about growing the offerings of this community and showing prospective business owners and citizens that Outlook is a great place to live, work and raise a family. Amber and I moved to Outlook over 15 years ago and are now raising three young sons who call Outlook their hometown. Its important to me that I be involved in the community and help build it to be a great place for them and others to live in and grow.
2. Current and past experience I have with committees include being a previous Councillor for the Town of Outlook and previously holding the position of President of the Outlook & District Chamber of Commerce. I am currently the President of Small Steps Early Learning Centre Inc., the Secretary of Branch 262 of the Royal Canadian Legion, and the Secretary/Treasurer of the Outlook & District Food Bank. Other committees and groups that I am currently or have been a part of include Canada Day Planning Committee, the Veteran’s Memorial Park Project, Community Appreciation Night Planning Committee and the Outlook Tradeshow Planning Committee.
3. I believe there will always be work to do to ensure Outlook stands out. We must all work together to showcase all of our local businesses, facilities and amenities and to promote our community as a great place to live, work and raise a family. By shopping and supporting local businesses, we are encouraging future business growth and expansion of goods and services. All community members need to work together to achieve common goals that enhance the community’s profile and offerings. There may be times that a proposed project doesn’t directly impact a select group; however, if that project will promote growth and prosperity of Outlook, we should all support it in whatever means we can.
4. Outlook has recently had a few instances of seeing an increase in population and demand for consumer goods from the Line 3 Replacement. During that time, we came together as a community and offered lodging and space for campers. Businesses in town extended their hours to accommodate the increased demand during those times. Outlook even had entrepreneurs start up small businesses to feed workers in the early mornings and provide lunches if workers wanted to take advantage of the opportunity. With the newly announced Irrigation Project, Council and everyone in Outlook will be the “drivers” of success. Entrepreneurs can look to capitalize on areas of need with the work crews, those with space can offer a place for temporary workers to stay and businesses can increase sales by looking at any opportunities this influx of workers will bring (whether it is product lines, store hours, or provide other needs that arise).
5. To help put small businesses back on the map and promote the amenities our community and surrounding area have to offer, I believe the entire business community, the local Chamber of Commerce, individual community members and the municipal council have a role to play. Council should re-visit it’s new business incentive offering to ensure it is still relevant and attractive. Council should encourage new business ventures that help ensure future sustainability. As previously said, we must all work together to promote all of our local businesses, facilities and amenities and to promote our town as a great place to live and operate a business.
6. My platform going into this municipal election is Integrity, Accountability and Prosperity. Integrity includes strong moral principles and mutual respect for all. Council needs to work together on building the trust between themselves and the ratepayers of Outlook, the surrounding municipalities and other major interest groups that operate in and around our community.
Accountability is key for governments at all levels – they are the elected representatives and as such, are accountable to those they represent. To help enhance accountability, I believe work is needed in transparency to ratepayers about future capital planning and local growth strategies. Being accountable also includes encouraging open dialogue with members of council and the community members they represent.
Finally, prosperity refers to council setting the tone for growth - growth of the community and business district. For Outlook to be sustainable, we need to be attracting young individuals and families to plant their roots in the community. Being attractive for newcomers entails continually looking at what services are potentially needed and encouraging groups or businesses in new ventures.
