Family life prepares candidate for role as Beiseker councillor

For Melanie McCullough, family is everything.

That is why she moved to Beiseker eight years ago and why she is running for village council in the July 23 by-election.

“(I moved for my) 14-year-old daughter, getting her out of the city,” she said.

“Family is the priority.”

“Each person (running) has a different thing to add (to council),” she said.

McCullough said her children range in age from seven to 27.

A receptionist at the Optimum Wellness Centre, she is new to the political scene.

She said current councillors are very knowledgeable and if she is elected, she is looking forward to learning from them.

“It's all about learning at this point,” she said. “I want to learn, I want to channel my passion.”

She fully supports local business and appreciates the home her family has made in Beiseker.

She also said the fire department needs to be reopened and is one of the big issues needing to be dealt with in Beiseker.

Forum focus

McCullough attended the Beiseker public candidates’ forum on July 9.

The question and answer period generated discussion over maintaining the village’s mill rate, the snow removal bylaw, unsightly areas, attracting business and youth engagement.

McCullough expressed concern over how high Beiseker’s mill rate is compared to the rest of Alberta.

She wants to find out how much of taxpayers money is sent to Rocky View and what Beiseker is getting back from it.

“I really think things need to be mended with Rocky View,” she said.

When the question of snow removal was raised, McCullough said she shovels her neighbour’s snow.

“I don’t see a problem with 72 hours,” she said of the time permitted to shovel your snow before being fined.

She said owners of unsightly areas should be fined and enforced but added that people with health issues should get help from members of the community.

To attract business to Beiseker, McCullough said she would like to see resident supporting each other and spread the word about local businesses.

“Tell your neighbours. Open your mouth,” she said.

“You think you’re saving money by going to Walmart but you’re not.”

When the question of youth engagement was asked, McCullough said she has no problem researching grants and seeking out donations in the community.

“We have to work together.”