A sixth candidate has been announced as part of Red Deer First. Janella Spearing will seek a council seat during the upcoming election.
“My top priority is to be accountable to the voters and run this City the way they want to see it run,” she said. “My life-long interest in politics and passion for this City ignited my interest in pursuing a position on City council. My dad was very passionate about politics and growing up I remember having great discussions with him at every level – municipal, provincial and federal.”
Spearing has lived in Red Deer for the past 12 years and has been active in volunteering for many clubs, councils, youth leadership teams and conferences, she said.
“I’ve given 19 years of community work and staying home with my kids and working in the community. It has given me the experience to bring to council. I think it’s just common sense,” said Spearing. “I’m just an every day person that for some reason was given this opportunity and I’m excited to do it.”
During her campaign so far, Spearing said she has heard much feedback regarding the bike lanes but said she is not against them.
“I think they have their purpose for sure. I don’t have all of the knowledge of the studies that went into them, so until I do have that available to me, I can’t really make a knowledgeable decision.”
If elected, Spearing said she will focus on priorities including safety, infrastructure and accountability and responsibility.
“I know that all citizens value their families above all and want to keep them safe. As such, I will work towards reducing crime so that citizens can feel confident Red Deer is safe for their families,” she said. “I want to see better maintenance for Red Deer roads and better planning for the City’s thoroughfares as Red Deer continues to thrive and grow.
“I see extravagant spending and that bothers me. I have a saying as a mom and that is I wouldn’t go out and buy a bottle of champagne if there wasn’t milk in the fridge for my kids. I know money has to be spent to bring a city into its future. I’m not against it, but I think the basics need to get looked after first.”
As for hitting the campaign trail, Spearing said she is most looking forward to meeting people and hearing what they have to say.
“I think getting to know people and what they want is the thing I’m most looking forward to. I experienced the farmer’s market this past weekend and I loved it. Some people actually challenged me and it’s awesome to hear different opinions. I don’t think you can make a great decision until you can see all sides of it.”
efawcett@reddeerexpress.com
