Mayor Nancy Dodds is hoping for a second term in office.
“I’m running for re-election because I believe there is still important work to be done for our community,” says Dodds in an email interview.
Dodds and her husband have raised two daughters in Drayton Valley, so she is familiar with many of the strengths and challenges the community faces. As a mother, business owner, and mayor, Dodds says she is passionate about serving the community and making a positive impact.
“I’m proud to call Drayton Valley home, a community that always pulls together,” says Dodds.
Dodds was first elected to council in 2017 and became mayor four years later. Over those eight years, Dodds has been a leader in two unprecedented challenges — the pandemic and the Buck Creek Wildfire. Both of those events had a significant impact on the community and Dodds says she got real-world, live experience in crisis management and resilience.
She says her time guiding the community through those challenges make her a good candidate for the job. With her years of experience, Dodds says she has valuable insight into navigating the complexities of local government.
“Municipal politics have changed dramatically. I understand the importance and the need to advocate on issues and challenges outside of municipal authority. I’m up for addressing these with other levels of government, and coming together as a community to tackle these,” says Dodds.
She says there has been an increase in responsibilities and expectations placed on municipalities. For her, collaboration and advocacy are two important tools that should be used to bolster the community.
“I would continue to work hard on the intergovernmental efforts and successes that have been made with Brazeau County. We are stronger when we are moving in the same direction and supporting each other,” she says.
Dodds says her background in planning and development make her qualified for the position.
“[My background] is important in establishing policy, strategic direction and bylaws to set the quality and level of local services,” she says.
If reelected, Dodds says there are several areas she wants to improve. She says her main focus will be on continuing the Town’s efforts to secure funding for continuous improvement of infrastructure.
“We’re working with a lot less than what we have had historically, and the rising cost of everything ends up affecting the residents. We need to get back on track,” she says.
Along with infrastructure, Dodds says if she’s re-elected she will also push for improvements regarding housing shortages, economic growth, and prosperity while supporting local businesses.
Between her passion for the community and its residents and her experience in municipal leadership, Dodds believes she has what it takes to lead Drayton Valley for another term.
