MD of Bonnyville Reeve Ed Rondeau has announced that he will be seeking another term in the upcoming October municipal election.
“It has been my pleasure to represent the residents of the MD of Bonnyville for the last three years,” said Rondeau. “I want to thank voters for that opportunity. As always, working for you, the ratepayer, has been a great learning experience.”
Rondeau is happy with what the MD council has been able to accomplish over the past three years, which includes upgrading many of the roads in the region, buying new construction and maintenance equipment, building a new public works building and renovating the downtown offices.
Rondeau feels that infrastructure upgrades and handling the MD's growth will be the main task for the next four years.
“I believe roads will always be the MD's number one priority,” said Rondeau.
“It's important, while the oil industry is operating in our municipality, to take advantage of this tax benefit and improve our roads. In the next four years, I want to see more reconstruction of roads and especially more paved roads in heavy traffic areas.”
The MD has been growing in size over the past three years and Rondeau feels that council has to be mindful of this growth.
“Although the oil industry increases some costs for the MD in terms of roads, it has brought prosperity to the municipality in regards to an increase in growth in our hamlets and subdivisions. In the next four years council has to manage this growth for the benefit of all residents. One of council's priorities is to improve the attractiveness of our hamlets within the municipality.”
Rondeau also plans to address the regional water issue, as he says the MD “intends to be an active partner” in discussing solutions with the provincial government.
“Urban communities such as Glendon and Bonnyville will need the MD's support to achieve a cooperative solution,” said Rondeau. “The area needs a Regional Water Commission to manage the regional water supply. This Commission should be an equitable partnership formed by all the area's municipalities, First Nations and Metis Settlements.”
Rondeau said he is proud of projects, such as the Cold Lake FCSS building and the new Bonnyville Regional Fire Authority training center.
“As Reeve I would continue to enter into these cooperative partnerships, while maintaining the fiscal independence of the MD,” said Rondeau. “Our neighbouring urban municipalities provide services to our residents and I believe that the MD should enter into partnerships to support these programs.”
The municipal election is scheduled for Oct. 21.
