Vauxhall candidates share their views

Posted on October 16, 2025 by Vauxhall Advance

By Nikki Jamieson
Vauxhall Advance
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The following are answers to questions we asked to Vauxhall Town councillor candidates for the upcoming municipal election on Monday, Oct. 20. Please note that answers may be edited for length and clarity.

Henry Zacharias

With a dry sport facility now on the way, what are some of the other top infrastructure priorities for the community?

I think developing more lots. Currently, the Town of Vauxhall doesn’t have any vacant lots for sale, and we don’t have any developed. So, in order for us to continue growing as a town, we’re going to need to develop more lots, residential lots. That probably would be top of the list. But we’ve had a productive two years. We’ve got a lagoon main done, that was over $2 million. We got both arena floors done, that was over $2 million. And the next thing we need to do is get more lots, because how are you supposed to grow as a town if you don’t have any room to build?

What’s the biggest issue you see facing the town today?

I’d say growth and affordability.

How important is it for the municipality to try to work together to achieve goals with partners like the MD or Town of Taber?

We work very closely with the MD on a couple of things. Our fire department is shared, our water treatment is shared, so I would say it’s very important to work efficiently with the MD. The Town of Taber, we don’t really do a whole lot, that’s a little different. We should be advertising our community events in Taber more, I do think that. Not everything we do in town gets advertised in Taber, though it probably should be, come to think of it.

How would you approach helping and attracting businesses in Vauxhall if elected?

I think if we added more families, make room for more families to come to town, I think the businesses would naturally just follow, once there’s a pool of employees to draw from, and more customers. Cause it is tough to set up a lot of different types of businesses in a small town of only 1,200, That’s what I think. If we grew the population, it will probably help attract businesses, because I think property taxes for businesses are reasonable, so I don’t think lowering business licenses would help them or lowering a business license fee. I think population would help.

What made you want to run for council?

I’ve always been interested in politics, especially local politics. And there is not enough interest. As you see in this election, there is only eight nominees for seven positions. So, I see there was a need for councillors too, that was part of it. To me, it looked like I could be most helpful there for now.

Jimmy Wolf

With a dry sport facility now on the way, what are some of the other top infrastructure priorities for the community?

One of my top priorities is developing more lots for housing and businesses.

What’s the biggest issue you see facing the town today?

Our biggest issue is the stressed sewer system and low water pressure in certain parts of town.

How important is it for the municipality to try to work together to achieve goals with partners like the MD or Town of Taber?

It’s very important to collaborate with the MD and Town of Taber, as our small town relies on regional partnerships to achieve shared goals.

How would you approach helping and attracting businesses in Vauxhall if elected?

I would attract businesses by developing lots for commercial and residential growth to increase our population and economic activity.

What made you want to run for council?

A friend encouraged me to run for town council, and I’ve always been interested in politics.

Marilyn Forchuk

With a dry sport facility now on the way, what are some of the other top infrastructure priorities for the community? 

I feel that some top infrastructure priorities for Vauxhall are sidewalks, waterlines/water pressure and increasing the availability of serviced lots. A lot of people would like to see a walking path go around the east side of town joining up with the existing walking path we already have. 

I believe that it would be worth investing in a beautification plan for our downtown/business area, Legion Park as well as the entrance into Vauxhall from Highway 36. Our residents take so much pride in their homes and yards yet some parts within the town could definitely use some TLC. I think it is time to put some effort into spiffing up these areas in town so that it is more appealing and better reflects who we are! I feel it would help draw people passing by to stop in and see what we have to offer. 

Marilyn Forchuk (Con.t)

What’s the biggest issue you see facing the town today? 

An important issue we face is the reality of our small business downtown. A solid business base is so important to the viability of Vauxhall. Working with and supporting the Vauxhall Chamber of Commerce is so important too. We have already seen what losing 2 major banks has done to our downtown and our community. If people have to go out of town to do their banking they tend to do their shopping there as well. Finding a way to keep and attract people to come into town to do business, will benefit us all. 

Another issue I see is housing options for people and the shortage of serviced lots. It is so expensive to service lots and the costs for any upgrades needed to ensure our utility services can keep up. All the while keeping property taxes affordable and fair. 

How important is it for the municipality to try to work together to achieve goals with partners like the MD or Town of Taber? 

I believe in a positive working partnership with the MD of Taber for sure. Working together makes us stronger and brings the entire municipality together. We can share ideas, projects and resources which helps to reduce costs. Our emergency services that we have in Vauxhall is an excellent example of what happens when we work together with the MD of Taber. Our fire and rescue are top notch and the amazing and dedicated volunteers are trained and always ready to serve our community and surrounding area. In working together we were also able to reinstate the ambulance service this past year. Another example of great things happening when working together!  

How would you approach helping and attracting businesses in Vauxhall if elected? 

I feel that supporting and working with the Vauxhall Chamber of Commerce is critical in helping our existing businesses and potential new business, and talking with and listening to our existing businesses to come up with ways to help promote “shop local” in our community. Trying to keep small business taxes and utility costs reasonable as well. Continuing to network with the MD/Town of Taber/SouthGrow and moving forward in joint economic planning is very important. I worked for decades for CIBC Vauxhall – the first bank to leave Vauxhall. I know the struggles and realities of doing business in Vauxhall. Again, having to leave town for even just banking opens the door for lost business for our local businesses. I also feel that we need to invest in promoting Vauxhall more through social media. We need to find a way to build on our strengths and what Vauxhall has to offer. 

What made you want to run for council? 

I had always wondered how decisions were made that affected residents and how our tax dollars were spent, so I decided to attend a couple council meetings just to see how it all worked. I found it very interesting and scary, and it opened my eyes in a more positive way. Living and working here my whole life I volunteered a lot, and had a deep-rooted feeling of pride for Vauxhall. I felt it was time to step up and help contribute more to my community any way I could.  

I have been very fortunate to have been on council for the last three terms, working with a lot of great people. I feel like so much has been accomplished and things are moving forward, yet there is still so much more to do. It is my hope to continue to help build a future for our community and the residents of Vauxhall! 

Kim Dorin

With a dry sport facility now on the way, what are some of the other top infrastructure priorities for the community?

We need more lots so families can build homes and help our town grow. Roads need upgrading, and there are water pressure issues, especially in the southeast side of town. I’m excited about the new dry sport facility and would like to see it collaborate with our arena and curling rink in a larger complex. The Jet Stadium is another town attraction, and I’d love to see improvements there. Parks and walking paths are also a priority, giving residents safe and enjoyable places to be active.

What’s the biggest issue you see facing the town today?

Housing is our biggest challenge. Homes sell quickly, and we need more to support growth. Over the past four years, council has strengthened relationships with user groups and volunteers. I want to continue that collaborative spirit and ensure the town keeps growing while meeting the needs of residents.

How important is it for the municipality to work together with partners like the MD or Town of Taber?

It’s all about being neighbourly. Sharing resources and working together benefits everyone. Vauxhall’s town and rural residents rely on each other, and collaborating with the MD and Town of Taber ensures community needs are met. It’s about recognizing what each community offers and finding ways to support one another.

How would you approach helping and attracting businesses in Vauxhall if elected?

Having been a business owner here for 20 years, I understand what the community needs. Supporting local businesses while attracting new ones creates jobs and opportunities. We have empty lots that could host services we don’t yet have, like a dentist or eye doctor. Promoting and supporting businesses strengthens our town and helps residents.

What made you want to run for council?

I’m passionate about Vauxhall and want to make a meaningful difference. Serving on council allows me to listen, learn, and help guide decisions that benefit the community. I’m committed to representing those who may be hesitant or uncomfortable speaking publicly — I want to ensure every voice is heard. I’ve lived here my whole life, and I want to continue contributing to Vauxhall’s growth and success.

Shelley Deleeuw 

With a dry sport facility now on the way, what are some of the other top infrastructure priorities for the community? 

I believe the top priority of the town is to service more lots for sale. At the moment all lots are sold. To help with housing and to keep Vauxhall vibrant this will need to be a priority. It would also be beneficial to find a developer who would be willing to build housing for rentals as that is a high need in town currently. With the completion of two major projects, focus will also go towards repairs of infrastructure around town such as roads and sidewalks. 

 What’s the biggest issue you see facing the town today? 

I would say that’s increasing costs. Unfortunately, with inflation budgeted projects, or prior quotes increase quickly. While we understand residents’ living costs have increased, so has the maintenance and operations for the town. It will be important to stick to the budget to keep taxes from increasing. The lack of rental housing is a big issue as well. Hoping with the potential development of new lots that this will change. 

How important is it for the municipality to try to work together to achieve goals with partners like the MD or Town of Taber? 

This is vital for the success of the town. Being the Town of Vauxhall is in the MD of Taber, we have many residents that utilize Vauxhall for its services. Without a partnership with the MD and the Town of Taber it would be impossible to run a or maintain the town to its potential. We rely heavily on MD residents especially to utilize our recreation services and hope they come and support our local businesses in the meantime. Currently we have multiple partnerships with recreation, emergency services as well as a joint economic development committee. 

 How would you approach helping and attracting businesses in Vauxhall if elected? 

Right now, we are completing a joint economic development agreement which will keep all municipalities in the loop. This should give Vauxhall the same opportunities to attract Businesses. Currently it will be a priority to create more housing opportunities to hopefully attract more employees and business owners to the area. 

 What made you want to run for council?

I decided to run for council again to see the completion of our current projects. I felt recreation is a very important part of the vitality of the town. Throughout my last term we will have seen improvements to the infrastructure of our arena and curling rink. The dryland facility will be a welcome addition to the area. I am excited to see what the benefits of these projects will benefit the town. 

Kimberley Cawley

With a dry sport facility now on the way, what are some of the other top infrastructure priorities for the community? 

 A few top priorities for me would include developing more commercial and residential lots, some much needed paving repairs, and then I’d love to see the walking path around the school extended down towards the community hall. I’ve chatted with a few young people who would like to see the return of a skate park, so that would be an item I’d like to have the town find ways to fund, as well as updating/upgrading some of the parks in town.

What’s the biggest issue you see facing the town today? 

Housing seems to be a really big problem, rentals specifically. I’d like the see the town work with developers or investors to build affordable rentals. 

How important is it for the municipality to try to work together to achieve goals with partners like the MD or Town of Taber? 

I think it is crucial to partner with our neighbors. We provide so many great services to MD residents, but in turn our schools, businesses, recreational facilities would not survive without the support of MD residents. We have maintained a really strong relationship with the MD Council and we very much appreciate their support for Vauxhall. The MD plays an huge role in our emergency services, and advocated tirelessly to restore the ambulance service back in town. Our facilities, especially the hockey arena, is utilized by the town of Taber residents and teams, and so we also need to keep strong relationships with them as well. Our region is a very special place, and it’s the teamwork with our partners that build strong communities. 

How would you approach helping and attracting businesses in Vauxhall if elected? 

Keeping taxes low is a great place to start, but also promoting Vauxhall as a place where folks can live, work and play. As I mentioned earlier, growth cannot happen without available space, so we need to continue to develop more commercial and residential lots, and then work together with the Vauxhall and District Chamber of Commerce to promote local businesses to help them succeed. 

What made you want to run for council? 

I’ve served on council for the past 11 years, and I feel like I’ve learned so much over that time, and have seen many changes in the community in the last decade. We’re always changing and adapting, and I have a deep passion for this community that I’ve called home my whole life.

Paul Ballard

With a dry sport facility now on the way, what are some of the other top infrastructure priorities for the community?

With the new dry sport facility underway, I believe the next priorities should focus on maintaining and upgrading essential services that support both residents and future growth. That means investing in our roads and sidewalks, ensuring reliable water and sewer infrastructure, and maintaining our parks and green spaces. Even though I have only lived in Vauxhall for just over two years, I see how important these core investments are to keeping our town vibrant and attractive to families and businesses.

What’s the biggest issue you see facing the town today?

The biggest challenge is finding the right balance between growth and affordability. People want more services and opportunities for youth, families, and seniors, but at the same time, we need to make sure taxes are fair and the town operates efficiently. As someone newer to Vauxhall, I have noticed both the strengths and the areas that could use more support, and I think that fresh perspective can be valuable.

How important is it for the municipality to try to work together to achieve goals with partners like the MD or Town of Taber?

It is very important. No community thrives in isolation, and by working with the MD and the Town of Taber we can share resources, reduce costs, and strengthen the region as a whole. Whether it is recreation, infrastructure, or economic development, collaboration ensures better results for everyone.

How would you approach helping and attracting businesses in Vauxhall if elected?

I would focus on creating a welcoming environment where businesses feel supported. That includes keeping processes simple, reducing unnecessary barriers, and listening to business owners about their needs. I also believe we should promote the strengths of Vauxhall—its location, community spirit, and quality of life—to attract new opportunities. Supporting local entrepreneurs is just as important as bringing in new businesses, and I would like to make sure both groups feel encouraged.

What made you want to run for council?

Although I have only lived in Vauxhall for just over two years, I already feel strongly connected to this community. I believe in giving back and contributing where you live, and serving on council would give me the chance to do that in a meaningful way. I bring a practical, common-sense approach to decision-making, and I want to help ensure that Vauxhall continues to be a strong, welcoming place for everyone.

As of press deadline, we did not hear back from Russell Norris.