Municipal Elections Result in New Leadership Across Southern Alberta

The municipal elections held on October 23, 2023, in Southern Alberta communities have resulted in new leadership for several towns, including Banff, Coaldale, Coalhurst, and Diamond Valley. These elections showcased local engagement, with varying levels of competition for mayoral and council positions.

In Banff, the mayoral position was filled by Corrie DiManno, who was elected by acclamation as no other candidates filed nomination papers prior to the election. The newly elected councillors include Michelle Backhouse, David Fullerton, Marc Ledwidge, Barb Pelham, Kaylee Ram, and Brian Standish. While these results are currently unofficial, the official tallies are expected to be released by noon on October 24.

In Coaldale, Jack Van Rijn was unofficially re-elected as mayor, securing 1,176 votes against challenger Henry Doeve, who received 695 votes. The top candidates for council were Jason Beekman with 1,384 votes, followed by Bill Chapman (1,185), Jacen Abrey (1,116), Dale Pickering (1,022), Lisa Reis (890), and Jordan Sailer (879).

Coalhurst’s election saw Deb Florence emerge victorious for mayor with 297 votes, surpassing Scott Akkermans with 199 votes and Dennis Cassie with 160 votes. The leading candidates for councillor in Coalhurst included Lori Harasem (459 votes), Colin Slingsby (440 votes), Brody Prete (strong>433 votes), and Jesse Potrie (strong>405 votes).

In Diamond Valley, Brendan Kelly was returned as mayor without opposition. The council members elected alongside him are Cindy Holladay, Jonathan Gordon, Hazel Martin, Ashley Brosz, Ted Bain, Colin Fleming, Tom Kirk, Curtis Dixon, and Tarina Ek.

The results from these elections are expected to become official on October 24, further solidifying the leadership structure within these communities. As these towns move forward with their newly elected officials, residents will be looking to see how the new councils address local issues and contribute to community development.