Candidate Profile -- Krista Gardner

CALMAR -- Councillor Krista Gardner is looking to become the new Mayor of Calmar.

Gardner was first elected to Council in a by-election held in August 2016, and was then re-elected in 2017 and 2021. Speaking to 93.1 The One, she talks about what her priorities would be if elected as Mayor.

"My first priority is fiscal responsibility and smart growth," said Gardner. "How do we keep Calmar affordable while planning for tomorrow -- that's probably the top thing I hear when out door knocking, is affordability issues."

During her time in office, Gardner has served on various Boards and Committees and is also Calmar's representative with the Capital Region Southwest Water Services Commission. She says that if elected, another one of her goals would be to boost community connection.

"I have long been a strong advocate for more engagement with our public," said Gardner. "I want to be a Mayor that shows up and communicates, and takes that feedback in -- so everyone in Calmar can feel like they're part of the conversation."

She was elected by her fellow elected officials to serve as Director for Towns West on the Association of Alberta Municipalities Board in 2022 and was further elected to Vice-President of Towns for ABMunis in 2023. Gardner also expressed why she feels residents should support her campaign for Mayor.

"I'm approachable, I'm dedicated, and I don't shy away from tough conversations," said Gardner. "I really believe in teamwork and transparency, and making those decisions that even when they're hard, they're going to make Calmar strong and sustainable in the future."

Gardner will be up against candidates Kirk Popik and Alvin Ryan in Monday's municipal election. Current Mayor Sean Carnahan will not be returning as Mayor, as he has decided to run for a seat on Council instead.