As the Town of Esterhazy prepares for the upcoming mayoral election, one candidate, Randy Bot, is eager to share his vision for the community. With a background as a paramedic and a strong commitment to teamwork and community engagement, Bot aims to address pressing issues related to infrastructure, healthcare, public safety, and taxation. In this interview, he outlines his plans and priorities for Esterhazy, emphasizing collaboration and proactive solutions.
Can you speak about the current state of infrastructure in town and your plans for improvements or maintenance?
The state of our town’s infrastructure reflects the challenges many small towns face with aging systems. While we have a crucial water treatment plant under construction that will benefit our community, we must address other pressing needs as well. I’m committed to working with the council to reinstate essential programs like our paving initiatives. This means not only improving the roads but also ensuring the underlying infrastructure is maintained or replaced as necessary. By taking a proactive approach, we can avoid the disruption that comes from having to excavate newly completed roads.
Additionally, I plan to focus on critical areas such as drainage improvements and introduce programs for the upkeep and replacement of sidewalks. These efforts will make Esterhazy safer and more accessible for all residents.
What are your thoughts on healthcare services in town, and how do you plan to address any gaps or challenges?
Healthcare is a deeply personal issue for me, especially as a paramedic. I know that healthcare services in Esterhazy, like those across the province, face significant challenges. While the mayor doesn’t have direct authority over healthcare, I can advocate for our community by fostering partnerships and exploring innovative solutions to enhance the services we have. The plans for a new hospital are encouraging, and the allocation of planning funds is a positive step forward.
If elected, I will ensure that the voices of Esterhazy residents are heard in discussions about the new hospital. I will prioritize transparency, keeping the community informed and advocating for our needs. Together, we can work toward a healthcare system that truly meets the needs of our residents.
Can you explain how your personal hobbies, interests, and beliefs will benefit you in your role as town mayor?
My hobbies, primarily centered around sports, have instilled in me a strong sense of teamwork. This experience will be invaluable as I collaborate closely with our council, recognizing the unique contributions of each member. My interests often revolve around my children and our activities in Esterhazy, whether it’s skating, visiting the pool, or enjoying local parks. I believe these areas need attention to ensure we remain competitive with other communities.
I was raised with a deep belief in hard work and respect. These principles guide my commitment to serve. If elected as mayor, I will ensure every voice is heard and work tirelessly to meet our community’s needs.
What is your perspective on policing in town, and do you see any areas for improvement or change?
I have great appreciation for our policing team in Esterhazy. Their pride in their work speaks volumes about their commitment to the community. SGT Stringfellow has been proactive in addressing concerns by attending council meetings, which fosters trust and collaboration.
We are fortunate to have dedicated officers like CST Herring, who engage actively with our youth and organize events that strengthen relationships with the community. While we have a solid foundation, I believe there’s always room for improvement. I invite residents to voice their concerns and ideas so that our policing strategies align with community needs.
What is your stance on municipal taxation, and how would you balance tax rates with the need for essential services and development?
If elected, my approach to municipal taxation will focus on finding new revenue sources to ease the burden on taxpayers. We can’t rely solely on taxation; it’s essential to explore innovative solutions that can reduce the cost of living for residents and businesses.
I will work closely with staff and council to identify opportunities for economic development and increased funding that enhances our community without raising tax rates. Balancing tax rates with essential services is crucial, and I’ll ensure that any changes we consider prioritize the long-term sustainability of our community while maintaining the quality of services residents rely on.
I also want to emphasize the importance of our senior population. Improving their lives is a priority. If elected, I will actively listen to their needs and advocate for affordable transportation services to help seniors reach appointments. I’ll work with the council to develop a strategic plan to make this a reality in our community.
Summary
Randy Bot’s candidacy for mayor of Esterhazy is driven by a commitment to community welfare and proactive governance. His focus on infrastructure improvements, healthcare advocacy, community engagement, and balanced taxation reflects a comprehensive approach to local leadership. Bot’s dedication to listening to residents, particularly seniors, and fostering collaboration among council members positions him as a candidate ready to address the challenges facing Esterhazy while promoting a vibrant, inclusive community.