The Jasper Local October 1, 2017 by The Jasper Local

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LOCAL + independent

2017 Election Edition

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sunday, october 1, 2017 // ISSUE 106

BUGLE BOY //BULL ELK ARE PRACTICING THEIR “COW CALLS” AS JASPER TRIES TO HOLD ONTO AUTUMN FOR A FEW MORE WEEKS. // SIMONE HEINRICH

Jasper Library unveils new donor plaque The library construction was rife with challenges and delays and when the doors finally opened September 30, 2016, the project was $1.5 million over budget and more than three hosting a ceremony to thank the individuals, years behind schedule. families and corporations which together Despite the bumps in the road, the facility has been raised more than half a million dollars to help celebrated since the ribbon cutting. build the Jasper Library and Cultural Centre. Library Board Chair, Dale Karpluk, said the celebration was In 2009, the library board of the day determined that the an opportunity to show appreciation for the hard work of library needed to expand and modernize. Matching $3 the fundraising committee and the Friends of the Jasper million grants from the federal and provincial governments Library Society, as well as the generosity of the donors. were complemented by $3 million of local funds—$2.5 of Artist Judi Rusk’s metalworks depicting a Jasper scene was which came from the municipality, leaving $500,000 to be also officially unveiled. bob covey // bob@thejasperlocal.com raised by the board. The Jasper Municipal Library Board unveiled its donor wall September 29,

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page A2 // the jasper local // issue 106 // sunday, october 1, 2017

editorial //

Local Vocal “Who do you like for council?” I’ve been getting that question a lot lately. The other question I’ve been asked is “Why aren’t you running this time around?” I’ll answer the second question, first: The reason I’m not running for public office is simple. It’s because I own and run a newspaper. Some of you may remember in 2013 I did put my hat in the ring. I did so for many of the same reasons our current slate of nominees are running: to give back to the community; to try something I was always interested in; to work with community leaders for whom I have a lot of respect; and because other people I knew encouraged me to do it. As it turned out, I ended up earning one less vote than was needed to get in. While the drama down the stretch was certainly entertaining, I breathed a heavy sigh of relief when the final results were broadcast. Over the course of the campaign it had become apparent that negotiating the conflict-ofinterests that arise when one is simultaneously running in, and commenting on, an election was too delicate of a dance to maintain. Long before the voting, I had decided that if I were to get a seat on council, I’d have to put the newspaper enterprise to the side. Considering I had only started The Jasper Local five months earlier, I didn’t want to do that. I still don’t want to give up on this project, which is why I never for a moment considered running this time around. I want to continue to use these pages to make a space for alternative news and mountain culture in Jasper. Most of the feedback I get from our readers tells me that it’s an endeavour worth continuing. Perhaps in 2021 that will change. As for the question: who do I like? Well, truthfully, I like all of our candidates. So much so, in some cases, that it’s pointless to pretend I’m unbiased. Small town journalism is a peculiar thing. Many of the stories we pursue here at The Jasper Local become known to us because the people we know alert us to them. After nearly a decade of reporting and maintaining an engaged role in our community, I am grateful to know a wide variety of Jasperites across a broad spectrum of demographics. Almost every day I recognize the value this brings to my life, but when election time rolls around, I am faced with the realization that my close association with many of the candidates can be a handicap to balanced reporting.

It’s almost comical how well I know some of these folks. One candidate has been my wife’s birth doula, another has been her employer. I’ve shared beers with many of the candidates, although I’ve only shared a shower with two of them. Four of the nominees were invited to my wedding; I’ve volunteered with at least three; one has given me (undeserved) penalties at rec hockey and at least three have written me angry letters for something I put in the paper. I’ve written cheques for two candidates and taken money from at least two others; I’ve done stories on about a third of them and

have sat across from another handful during the previous election. As you can see, giving objective coverage to the lot is a complicated proposition. So rather than me tell you which candidates I would vote for, it’s best to take all of my biases with a large grain of salt and get to know these nominees on your own accord. We have, however, provided you with a bit of a primer. What I would say is that they are all good people with good intentions and I believe they are all interested in serving the community. And that’s something I like a lot. bob covey // bob@thejasperlocal.com

The Jasper Local //

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// Local housing

sunday, october 1, 2017 // issue 106 // the jasper local// page A3

Residents uneasy with rental restructuring Jasper renters are feeling vulnerable after the announcement that many of the community’s rental suites are set to be turned into condominiums. The new owners of Aspen Gardens, the Cabin Creek “Walk-Ups” and the adjacent town homes on Patricia Street were in Jasper last week attempting to ease residents’ concerns that the changes would leave renters without a place to live. “You don’t have to worry about being displaced, or six months from now worry about being evicted. That’s not going to happen,” said Chris Ritter from the newly formed Jasper Multi-Family LP group. Ritter, along with developers Paul Kvill and Billy Coles, whose head office and modular home factory is in Three Hills, Alberta, told a group of a dozen or so tenants of units formerly owned by Trijon Planning and Developments Ltd. that current renters would have first right of refusal on the new condos. Realtor Cam Jenkins was moderating the meetings. As the broker of the deal, and now Jasper Multi-Family LP’s property manager, he pledged to help ensure renters won’t be left out in the cold when the transition takes place. “The way I’m looking at this is I’m responsible for 96 families,” Jenkins said. The builders echoed that sentiment. “We want to have open dialogue, I want to be able to sleep at night,” said Coles. Despite the encouraging words, some residents were not mollified. Alejandro Raurell lives in Aspen Gardens. He noted there was nothing binding in the

developers’ promises and suggested that many of the working class families who rent those units will never be in a position to buy when the transition to condominiums takes place. “I can tell you that more than half of these renters can’t afford these units,” Raurell said. “They will have to find another place.” The owners are anticipating a 12-18 month period before the changeovers; a two bedroom condo in Aspen Gardens will cost approximately $375,000, according to Jenkins. Further down the road, Jasper Multi-Family LP wants to build more condo units on the green spaces within each parcel. “To us, the prize is the building of more units,” Ritter explained. “We want to see more units in Jasper.” The group estimates there could be space for at least 60 new rental units on the parcels’ green spaces. Those units would likely be condos as well. The “Walk-Ups” would remain as rental units, according to the group. Before any of the proposed changes take place, the group needs to commission a reserve study to assess the state of the units and identify a funding plan to offset future deterioration of the 40-year-old buildings. Residents were encouraged to be forthcoming with any unit deficiencies so the group can create an accurate assessment. They were also urged to seek advice from local financial planners to look into qualifying for a mortgage. Ritter said this is an opportunity to get into a stable market at below appraisedcost. bob covey // bob@thejasperlocal.com

page B1 // the jasper local // issue 106 // sunday, october 1, 2017

JENNA MCGRATH You might wonder if yoga instructor and registered massage therapist Jenna McGrath has the toughness for politics, but it’s hard to imagine a more intense experience than helping mothers-to-be through the birthing process. Besides being a mother herself, wife and small business owner, this first time candidate for municipal council is a registered doula. She’s a caregiver who can go the distance when asked. She has friends and clients in the seniors demographic. And she wants to bring her passion for people and for families to the community.

PAUL CLARKE In his last editorial for the Jasper Fitzhugh, former newspaper editor Paul Clarke hinted that Jasperites might see his name again in the public realm soon. He has indeed followed through on that promise, coming full circle on a thought that first started manifesting in high school.

Local election //

“Running for council is a natural extension for me,” she said. “I come from a place of honesty and I have a sense of balance.” McGrath isn’t pretending she’s a practiced politico, but she sees issues in Jasper on which she could represent her neighbours. The recent sale of Aspen Gardens is close to her heart not just because she and her family live there, but because she’s concerned for her fellow renters. “I will be able to represent our community’s families, renters and seniors from a wholistic point of view,” she says. McGrath is known to a tight circle of wellness practitioners and healthcare providers. Her challenge now is getting

her name out to those who might not know about her broader skillset. “I see us moving towards creative ideas that could help us find solutions that aren’t necessarily common,” she said.

“I’ve always wanted to be in politics,” he said. It’s easy to see. Clarke has hit the ground running, launching a website and announcing a 15-point political platform that he thinks will capture Jasperites’ attention. He’s taking his campaigning seriously. “I’m doing my best to visit different groups and listen to them,” he said. He’s spent lunch with the seniors, talking to them about his plan to support the museum.

them know about his idea for capping annual property taxes at two per cent.

He hit the Minor Sports AGMs, chatting up board members about his push for paid visitor parking in the summers. And he’s gone to the chamber of commerce functions, rubbing shoulders with members of the business community and letting

She’s lived in Jasper for almost four decades and in that time has never been far away from community issues involving social matters, education and employment.

GINETTE MARCOUX Most people reading this newspaper will know Ginette Marcoux’s name.

As a reporter, he has attended more council meetings in the past two years than some members of council and he has a comprehensive understanding of the issues that the new municipal government will grapple with: namely the budget and housing. He also says he has the time to give. “My vision for Jasper is to create a more progressive, sustainable community,” he says.

“I have a lot of experience in leadership, fiscal manaagement and community engagement,” she said.

She has been the executive director for the Jasper Adult Learning Council for nearly 20 years and as such, knows her way around a board meeting. She’s also known for her outspokenness.

Marcoux wants to make sure decisions are made for the good of the entire community—something that hasn’t always been practiced as of late, in her opinion (the Tour of Alberta comes to her mind as an example). In that vein, she wants more voices represented at council.

“I would definitely say I have no problem standing up for issues that concern the community,” she said.

“Groups I hope to represent include French Canadians, seniors, as well as new immigrants,” she said.

That may come from her familial background: she grew up as the lone daughter in a family of five. But it also comes from her career experience. Now she wants to use those experiences to represent her fellow citizens.

Marcoux said voters can look to her to be just and fair. “I’m here to serve, I want to live in an engaged community.”

Sunday, october 1, 2017 // issue 106 // the jasper local// page B2

Local election//

RICO DAMOTA

anything I’ve ever done,” he said.

Incumbent councillor Rico Damota has been in the hot seat.

For most of his Jasper life, Damota’s jobs have been socially interactive. When he first got elected in 2007, folks knew him as a popular bar manager. Now that he’s been a councillor for a decade, he tries to maintain that sense of people-first mentality.

He knows what it’s like to have residents (and newspapers) single him out for decisions he has or hasn’t made on council. He’s been trapped on the post office steps for way too long, or ranted to while he and his wife have been out for dinner. Even still, being a councillor is the best job he’s ever had. “It’s my favourite job out of

“You can’t be everything to everyone but when you’re making a decision on council I’m trying to think ‘how is my decision going to make the whole community better?’” Damota is a charming guy.

BERT JOURNAULT For many years, Bert Journault was the Jasper Park Chamber of Commerce’s “goto-guy” when it came to moderating the All-Candidates Forum during election season. He’s done the gig for the provincial, federal and municipal elections. Why has his number been called so often? Because

Bert’s been plugged into the political scene. He’s twice been the president of the chamber, was on the school district council for 11 years (1986-1997) and is educated in the Robert’s Rules of Order. He also isn’t

councillors. He’s running, he says, because he feels he has unfinished business. The work the Jasper Community Housing Corporation is just starting to gather steam; there is much to do to prepare for emergency wildfire situations. “I want to see those things through,” he said.

Even if you don’t agree with his take on an issue, he’s hard not to laugh along with. He’s selfdeprecating and admits he’s learned a lot from his fellow

Why vote Damota in 2017? According to him, because of his experience, dedication and loyalty to Jasper. “It’s a really rewarding job. I’m not in it for the gratification, but it helps,” he laughed.

afraid to voice his opinion.

it’s maintained.”

“I’m decisive,” he says. “I take a position.”

Journault likes to debate, but he doesn’t think debate should be exclusive. Early in his Jasper years, he recalls leading a toastmasters. His ability to break the ice was a reminder to his colleagues and friends that discussion is about ideas, not emotions. And what will he discuss if he’s elected? Fiscal prudence, for one.

Journault’s position in October 2017 is that Jasper has been good for him and he wants to give back. He’s known as a small business owner and a man who has been involved. His background lends itself to good judgement and a broad perspective, he says. “Jasper is the best town, in the best province, in the best country. We’re already a bit of a utopia. That’s difficult to improve on, but let’s make sure

“We want to make sure we achieve the maximum efficiencies, whether that’s snow removal or management of the smallest playground.”

page b3+B4 // the jasper local // issue 106 // sunday, october 15, 2017

ELECTION FEVER // DON’T FORGET: TO VOTE YOU NEED PROOF OF RE

operational reporti a better understand happening.”

ALICE LETTNER Alice Lettner knows that the first thing people are going to want to know about her candidacy is: “Do you have an axe to grind?” However, the former director of finance for the municipality who was terminated without cause (the issue is still being settled through lawyers) is resolute: There are no sour grapes. “I don’t bring an axe to grind,” she said. “I simply feel my background would assist council in their deliberations. Letter says personal feelings, biases and agendas have to be

put aside when running for public office. She seems to be practicing what she preaches. Rather than talk “motherhood and apple pie,” her term for broad-based buzzwords like “accountability,” “sustainability” and “transparency,” she brings a details-oriented approach. That means she’d like “more information on capital projects before they’re presented to the public and more

Letter looked after for more than six y of that, she has the the confidence to p with sound financia that will be useful i direction and maki That expertise will for example, when deciding what to do depreciating infras

“My vision is a com adequate reserves a borrowing to replac she said.

Lettner is a proud r community.

“I value the quality experience here.”

she’s been proud of the work accomplished. She mentioned outdoor seating and busking pilot projects as examples. But there are other projects, such as the release of land (for new housing initiatives and parking in the Industrial “S-Block”), which she’d like to see come to fruition.

HELEN KELLEHEREMPEY More than three decades ago, Helen Kelleher-Empey came to Canada from Ireland. Like many immigrants, her first job in Canada was as a nanny. When she came to Jasper in 1987, she found a community that welcomed her with open arms. Her colleagues became her friends and for 13 years she enjoyed working with the Jasper Park Chamber of Commerce, occupying various volunteer positions as time allowed. Kelleher-Empey worked with the Grande Yellowhead Economic Region and ran her own bookkeeping company before taking her current position as finance manger for SunDog Tours. As a result, she has become well-known in Jasper’s business community. In 2013, she decided it was time to give back to Jasper and narrowly won a seat on council. During her four year term

“There’s so many things happening I’m not ready to stop,” Kelleher-Empey said. She enjoys council work. Her schedule at SunDog Tours is flexible and she thinks there’s value in having continuity when it comes to electing a new roster of councillors. Kelleher-Empey wants Jasper’s vote again because she believes she’s just getting started. “In four years you gain knowledge. Incumbents can pass along that knowledge so we’re not starting anew.”

GRANDPA DONG Only in a small town such as Jasper could a candidate register his name as “Grandpa” on their official nomination papers.

Dong Han, or “Grandpa” for our purposes, came to Canada 67 years ago after escaping from the Korean War. After a successful career as an engineer for Sask Tel, he came to Jasper where he and his wife, “Grandma,” set up shop running a small convenience store. Besides raising their children, Grandpa

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NIC BAZIN “Coach Nic” has never been involved in politics. But that doesn’t mean he hasn’t been involved in his community. The ski coach, maintenance manager, waiter, handyman and Community Outreach Services volunteer likes to be counted on. When he was encouraged to run for council by colleagues and friends, he considered it a cool challenge. “If people want me as their councillor, I’ll do it,” he said. He’s a good listener, evidenced by his invitation to work as a community helper with COS. That role connects him to teens and young adults, a demographic he is familiar with thanks to his tenure as coach of the Jasper FreeRide ski team. “What I took from the Community Outreach position I’ve been able to use in my day to day work,” he said. The guy who’s equally comfortable in the coveralls of a plumber or the white collared shirt of a waiter wants to expand his toolbox. He’s a regular at Ecole Desrochers, inspiring francophone students making: Call him a fence-sitter, but he prefers deliberate and measured. “I have an open mind,” he says. Even with the decision to run for public office, he wasn’t totally convinced. Friends and family pushed him over the edge. “There are people who felt strongly that I have a skillset that can be of value…I decided to agree with them,” he said. Robinson knows there’s not always going to be agreement—but then that’s all part of the process. Nor does he take dissent personally— we’re talking about a former high

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to pursue their dreams, and likes the idea of learning from mentors himself, including the mayor. Moreover, his work with kids reaffirms his desire to work for the future. “I’m a strong believer in intergenerational encounters,” he says. “Spending time with your elders or learning from kids…I think Jasper needs to be more interactive with all age groups.” Bazin knows he’d have a steep learning curve, were he to be elected. But he’s keen on a challenge. He also thinks there are things in plain sight we can be capitalizing on. “Jasper is thriving, there are so many tourists coming through right now, no one in Jasper should be struggling with finances.” school teacher and hockey referee. “I think I’ve developed a thick skin,” he said. His role as the crew leader for the 2016 municipal census, on behalf of the federal government, showed him that there is a shadow population which we may not be fully serving, or being served by. And Robinson’s experience with PDAC has given him insight into the challenges and opportunities of working with Parks Canada when it comes to land use and development. Is he convinced that the town should pursue autonomy in this regard? Perhaps…but he’s still deliberating. A favourite of his is the one about the wind and the sun cajoling a young man to remove his coat. The aggressive wind storm blows and blows but his force is ultimately unsuccessful. The sun, on the other hand, supplies the man with warmth, eventually winning with gracious patience.

far as a society. Yet his positivity is inspiring. Two years ago he lost his home to a house fire and despite the traumatic circumstances, he remained steadfast, grateful and dedicated to his fellow Jasperites. Grandpa likes to quote parables.

Grandpa is like that warm sun: happy to take the gentle way, wise in matters of the heart and able to see the big picture. “My motivation to run for council is that I could contribute my experience and my knowledge to making Jasper a better living place,” he says. “Helping makes me happy.”

page B5 // the jasper local // issue 106 // sunday, october 1, 2017

TROY MILLS You can’t miss Troy Mills at his place of work. His affable nature and warm hospitality are part of what make the Jasper Park Golf Club a great place to swing a club. He’s good with names, asks about folks’ families and makes people feel welcome. He can talk sports, knows how to pour a pint and can dish the smack talk on the hockey rink or the ball field.

Local election //

He’s also got a young family and for that reason, wants to make a difference in his community.

a temperature from his fellow Jasperites, finding out their concerns so he can be a good representative. He knows his experience in matters of civic governence is limited. But he’s willing to learn about process and he has been fastidiously reading up on council minutes and the municipal government act.

“I want to ensure this community that’s done so much for me is going to be sustainable and thrive,” he said. Mills isn’t running on promises—other than to listen to residents’ concerns and do his best. He doesn’t have any shiny projects he’d like to see come to fruition—other than the housing initiatives that previous councils have put in motion via the Jasper Community

Housing Corporation. What Mills wants to do is be involved. He’s spent the last weeks taking

PAUL BUTLER

and with the Rotarians have given him a window into decorum and process, and he is clear that municipal councillors represent and serve their community, not the other way around.

Paul Butler’s been taking a lot of meetings lately. Besides his regular attendance at the Jasper Rotary Club, Butler’s been meeting with current council members to get a sense of what the job entails. He has an idea—he ran for council last time around and did his homework then, too—but in 2017 he wants to make doubly sure he’s prepared for the campaign. He prides himself on being as informed as possible when it comes to decision making.

“I have a genuine and real interest in finding solutions to challenges,” Butler says. He’s also big on disag reement, if o nly be cau se t hat’s g enerally the b es t way t o come up with the mo st

“I want to be a voice,” Mills said. “I want to be a great ambassador for Jasper and continue to foster great relationships within the community and with people who visit from abroad.”

compre he nsive solu ti on . “Good solutions are not achieved by likeminded people who already agree,” he said. Butler sold his business (Bear Hill Lodge) two years ago. He’s now got the time and energy, he says, to dedicate himself to a job as municipal councillor. His experience as past-president of the Chamber of Commerce

Besides meeting with councillors, Butler’s been trying to attend meetings that concern community members. He attended a meeting called by the new owners of the Aspen Garden town homes to get a sense of the situation renters in Jasper face. He’s planning to start knocking on doors to make sure those who aren’t familiar with him know he’s serious about his run for office. “I’m focused on inclusivity,” he said. “I think councillors have to represent all segments of our community whether that’s our LGBTQ residents or temporary foreign workers or businesses or employees.”

BAS BYRD Chances are even if you don’t know Bas Byrd personally, he’s made you a coffee. But the 29-year-old barista has something else brewing these days: a political campaign. It’s not Byrd’s first run for office, it’s not even his second. 2017 marks the third time Byrd has put his hat in the ring for Jasper town council. In 2010, he ran for mayor. “I’m running again because I’m the demographic that always gets missed, every election,” he says. “And I’m going to be here every election until I’m happy with the results.” Byrd isn’t the same kid who in 2010 said we need to “shake things up and start a revolution.” He’s grown up. He’s got a son now. He’s got less hair, but more responsibilities. But despite the time that’s passed, he’s still coming at the democratic process from a similar place. He still wants to work for people

who are underprivileged and underrepresented. “I will always be able to look at all sides of the spectrum,” he said. Byrd was among many who were ticked off when the municipality shut down the sledding hills this past winter for safety concerns. But when the town organized a working group to come up with creative solutions, he said he was disappointed he didn’t see any councillors show up to help. “Telling people ‘figure it out for yourselves’ is not why I would elect somebody,” he said. Byrd knows he’s an underdog. But he doesn’t care. “Whether or not I get elected this term I’m still going to fight for my community and do everything in my power outside of the municipality to get things done.”

sunday, october 1, 2017 // issue 106 // the jasper local// page B6

local election //

SCOTT WILSON

he drew people’s interest, he thinks, is because he’s shown he’s a hard worker, is capable of managing complex projects and is committed to Jasper.

in new developments as they pertain to reducing the housing shortage. Plus he just wants to give back, something he sees his friends and colleagues do regularly.

here,” he suggested.

“I’ve got friends of the fire department. I realize I can also assist our community.”

Recently, scott Wilson’s potential candidacy was on “I think they’ve seen my dedication the radar of a few influential Jasperites. to starting and growing a business Soon, Wilson was taking phone calls asking if he would run this year. When he said he’d consider it, nomination papers showed up at his door, signed and ready for submission. Wilson was flattered. The reason

Wilson’s business has been highly involved in the community’s largest cooperative housing project to date: he was the lead contractor for the construction of Caribou Creek Co-ops, which helped more Church board member. She’s also worked with the High School Band Society and Girl Guides.

ANN THOMAS Ann Thomas has lived in Jasper for 40 years. She is a wife, mother, business partner and dedicated volunteer. Many Jasperites know her through her roles as a school board trustee, library board members and United

than 60 families get set up in Jasper at an affordable price. Wilson thinks his experience overseeing projects will help council when it comes to engaging units on the parcels of land that are now available for development. She also wants to increase citizen engagement.

Thomas says she’s running because she wants to preserve the way of life that her family has enjoyed in Jasper and wants to provide thoughtful leadership for the long-term future.

“I intend to propose a public participation process which would consists of the council outlining its present and future goals, holding referendums on major capital projects and putting in place an online method of tracking activities, cost and timelines.”

Thomas has ideas for combatting the lack of affordable housing in town: she wants to explore potential incentives to private investors to fast-track multiple dwelling

Thomas hopes her campaign tagline— capable, concerned and committed—will resonate as voters consider the planning

Besides his construction experience, Wilson served on the PDAC board for five years and has a sense of development realities in Jasper. “Progress takes hard work. I’m willing to learn and take the time.” required to accomplish the renewal that this infrastructure requires. “All of the residents of Jasper will have a voice in how we proceed if we establish an effective two-way dialogue between residents and council,” she said.