Below are Delaurier's answers to the questions we posed to all city council candidates:
Q: Why are you running for council?
A: My strong background in both business and social work equips me to tackle Moose Jaw's key issues, like housing, jobs, and social challenges. Having lived here for over 45 years, I’ve raised a family, owned businesses, and worked with our community’s most vulnerable. My priorities are community safety, new jobs, and affordable housing, driven by the belief that "If there is a need, there is a way.
Q: Do you have experience in public service/community boards/politics?
A: My involvement in local non-profits and board positions has strengthened my leadership and advocacy skills. As a director on boards serving families and individuals at risk, as well as community groups, I have gained valuable experience in financial oversight and employee management that compliments my life experience in business.
Q: Do you think experience matters one way or another?
A: Real-world experience matters. Anyone can learn the mechanics of Bourinot's rules for city council meetings, but what is important is understanding how to responsibly manage public funds for essential services and infrastructure. It is equally crucial to foster economic development, manage city resources, and handle debt effectively. Equipping City Hall with the tools to vet new development is key to ensuring sustainable growth and long-term success for our community.
Q: What topic/policy issue/incident was the tipping point for you?
A: The lack of consistent vetting of city-owned property and new development projects is evident. In business, decisions around large expenditures and asset sales use financial tools that assess both immediate and long-term impacts. Our city needs similar, consistent processes to measure potential losses or gains when selling property or expanding developments, (city-owned portion of the Timothy Eaton Building and the 200-unit development at the former Union Hospital site).
Q: What criticisms do you have, if any, for the politics you've seen over the last two or three years?
A: SAMA’s property assessment model, especially its impact on commercial properties. Business owners have raised legitimate concerns, and I believe the city should consider alternatives, such as conducting assessments internally or hiring another firm to ensure fairness. The sale of the city-owned portion of the Timothy Eaton Building and why the 200-unit development proposal at the former Union Hospital site was denied.
Q: What is your plan to compromise/cooperate with fellow council members to accomplish policy goals?
A: My plan for cooperation on council centers around building consensus, open communication, and transparent debate. By forming advisory committees with diverse perspectives, we can ensure well-informed decisions. I will actively listen to fellow council members, seek common ground, and work toward balanced solutions on critical issues like housing, jobs, and public safety. Good debate is essential—it allows citizens to see which council members are truly advocating for their needs and driving meaningful change.
Q: What else do you want voters to know about you?
A: I want voters to know that I am deeply committed to serving Moose Jaw and its diverse community. My extensive background in both business and social work gives me a unique perspective on the challenges we face, allowing me to approach problems with empathy and practical solutions. I believe in the power of collaboration and grassroots involvement to drive change. Additionally, my long-standing ties to the community reflect my dedication to ensuring that all voices are heard. Together, we can create a prosperous, safe, and inclusive Moose Jaw for everyone
Q: In the interests of transparency, are you co-ordinating or do you share an association with any other candidates, in any way whatsoever?
A: In the interest of transparency, I want to clarify that I personally know several incumbents and candidates for mayor and council, and we share similar experiences in business. I have babysat one candidate as a child, hired another for media work, and represented some in real estate. While I’ve noticed that several candidates share a common vision for Moose Jaw's economic development, I am running as an independent candidate. I have attended different community groups to gain insight into local issues. I have communicated with various candidates, but I am my own person and will not carry anyone else's message. I am also not accepting donations for my candidacy. I do not want to be beholding to anyone for anything. I want to represent the citizens of Moose Jaw.
A candidates' forum is taking place on Monday at the Centennial Auditorium at Peacock Collegiate at 7 p.m. The forum will be livestreamed on Discover Moose Jaw.
Discover Moose Jaw will also have full coverage of the municipal election on Nov. 13.
For further municipal election coverage visit our election page.