Few expected any surprises to come out of the Municipal District of Bighorn election on Monday, (Oct. 16), and for the most part, there weren’t any – with one exception.
Ward 2 incumbent Carolyn Montgomery lost her seat as councillor to up-and-comer Lisa Rosvold.
Representing Dead Man’s Flats, Lac Des Arcs, Harvie Heights and surrounding areas, Rosvold is a relative newcomer to the area, but hopes to put her experience as a community builder and volunteer to good use.
“I hope people heard and chose me because I’m going to help represent their voice,” she said.
Rosvold spent a great deal of time getting to know her constituents in the weeks leading up to the election, and said she had the opportunity to have long and engaged conversations in many a living or dining room.
“People are looking for a fresh perspective,” she said. “Thank you to everyone who opened their doors to me.”
Rosvold was instrumental in getting voters out to the polls as well, using some of her campaign funds to rent a bus, which made four laps between the communities and voting stations.
“I wanted to save a few cars from making the drive, and it was nice to meet some of our ward neighbours,” she said.
Paul Clark, incumbent for Ward 3, was re-elected in a tight race between himself and rancher Pat Bedry, with only six votes determining the outcome.
Clark said the result was indicative that he needed to get out and meet with more people in the community.
“A number of voters I didn’t have a chance to meet, or voted for the other candidate, so I want to make sure I contact them so they feel like they’re part of the decision making process in the M.D.”
Clark said he will continue to be an environmental steward for the area, ensuring municipal services and infrastructure are available, but don’t interfere with the rural way of life that his constituents value.
As director for rural crime watch in the area, his goal for the next term is to work closely with the RCMP, as numerous break-ins over the past two years have become an increasing concern.
“I’d definitely like to see us be more proactive.”
Clark said he is looking forward to the next term of council and working with Rosvold, its newest – and youngest – member.
“Carolyn added a lot of value to the council representing the three hamlets, so she’s got some big shoes to fill,” he said,” but I’m looking forward to knowing (Rosvold) as a councillor.”
For her part, Rosvold says she’s ready.
“I have a little bit of nerves, but I’m excited to get started.”
Incumbent councillors Dene Cooper and Paul Ryan, representing Ward 1, and Erik Butters, representing Ward 4, are all returning for another term by acclamation.
The next council meeting will be held at 9 a.m. on Monday, (Nov. 6), in the M.D. of Bighorn council chambers in Exshaw.
