Drumheller-Stettler MLA rick Strankman paid a visit to Drumheller on Thursday, June 20, for the first in a series of office open houses.
While he was there, The Mail stopped by to learn what is in store for Strankman’s summer.
“This is something we had planned for some time. We’re hoping to more office open houses in Hanna, Stettler, and Drumheller,” said Strankman. “We’d like to do one a month for the rest of the summer. We’ll see how the schedule goes, maybe around the third week the July.”
Strankman was able to listen to concerns from area residents. Drumheller’s recent flood was a large concern, as was the proposed Badlands Motorsports Resort in Kneehill County.
“There were concerns about property rights issues. People are concerned about the race track. They think its in our constituency, but its not,” said Strankman.
“I used an example on a gentleman who phoned me. They have a right to develop their land, as long as it doesn’t interfere with anyone else. I said to him, ‘if they were trying to enforce their values on you, what would you do?’”
Ultimately, Strankman feels the decision up to the Kneehill County Council and should not be interfered with from a provincial level of government.
“Democracy has to play out. The county and its councillors are the ones who will be making the decision. We can have our own opinions. We can’t infringe on their political jurisdiction,” said Strankman.
Strankman hopes the Wildrose caucus will make the journey to Drumheller in July.
“I’m hoping to have a caucus meeting here and have them go to the Passion Play. I thought it’d be good for us to all experience it together and be a chance for us to have a meeting here,” said Strankman.
As far as projects in the constituency go, Strankman highlighted a development in Hanna.
“I was at the Palliser Economic Planning meeting in Hanna. Cactus Corridor Economic Development is trying to develop at Cactus Corner, so there’s potential for development. If it comes to pass, it would be great,” said Strankman.
Strankman aims to return to Drumheller this weekend and throughout the summer.
“I’m planning on being here for the July 1 parade. I’m not planning on taking any holidays. There is a lot to do in the constituency and on my farm,” said Strankman. “Exercise your franchise right. In a democratic society, it’s your right and privilege,” “Now is the time to meet your MLA, see who your representative is, and get to know them.”
