Kurt Wainman did not get elected this time, but he did get 421 votes, indicating he does have the support of many in the community.

TwoInuvialuit ran to be part of Inuvik’s Town Council. Both are worthy candidates, and although only Grace Loreen was elected this time, we wanted to hear why they ran, and how they hope to make a difference in the community.

When asked whether he has previous experience in politics, Kurt Wainman answers stoutly, “No” but adds, “That’s the best part.” He is not a “politician” who will say anything to win your vote, but an Inuvialuit “born and raised here”, who wants to do his part for Inuvik. “I’ve lots of good input,” he said. “I am interested in what’s going on in Inuvik, especially with all the oil and gas industries set to boom.” Kurt runs a number of successful businesses related to road services and the oil industry, and is also known for his charitable support of youth organizations. He said, “There are lots of improvements to do, and I hoped to bring about change as part of a team with the Mayor and the town council.” He sees the following as crucial qualities for town councilor: Being able to articulate opinion, staying on top of local politics, and involvement in the community.

This is also Grace Loreen’s first run at elections for town councilor. She sees the position as “being the voice of the people.” She said, “I’m glad that the have people so graciously elected me and I shall do my best while on Council.”

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“I am sure this will be a learning experience. I am sure I will get a lot of “Hey, you are a councilor and this is my concern…so what are you going to do about it?” As a single parent with two children (one of them is Dez Loreen, editor of the Inuvik Drum), and currently working at EGT (Gruben’s Transport), Grace feels the time has come for her to be of service to the community. “I am really proud to be from Inuvik and from the North,” she said, “hopefully I can make a little bit of a change and help the community.”