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Balsom seeking Ward One council seat

Last Updated Aug 29, 2017 at 1:59 pm MDT

PHOTO. Krista Balsom announcing that she is seeking a Ward One council seat. Jenna Hamilton/ MORNING REPORTER.

Another community member has thrown their hat into the municipal election ring.

Krista Balsom is seeking a Ward One council seat.

Originally from a small town in Newfoundland, Balsom has been a member of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo (RMWB) for 16 years.

She is the owner of Balsom Communications, which publishes YourMcMurray Magazine.

Her campaign platform outlines five key points:

  1. Downtown Revitalization and Economic Development
  2. Stronger Collaborative Relationships
  3. Fiscal Responsibility
  4. Vibrant Community
  5. Inclusiveness

 

Balsom said all five are really important, but if she was to pick one it would be downtown revitalization and economic development.

“It impacts so much of the others, and I think a stronger downtown would mean a stronger Fort McMurray,” said Balsom. 

In terms of what should be put downtown, she would like to see some urban parks.

“There is a beautiful spot next to the Jubilee Plaza there that could be a great urban park, I really want to see our river system developed more with walk-ways and gravel paths, things that would be flood sustainable, that would really have a big impact on regular families utilizing downtown as a destination,” said Balsom. 

Balsom believes the region is at a crossroads.

“I think the fire has had severe implications on our community, I think the price of oil has had severe pressures on our community. I think that we need to figure out what our realistic population base is going to be and build the best city we can for that population,” she added. 

The municipal election is on Oct. 16.