Councillor Belyk stresses responsible growth in re-election bid

Airdrie Councillor Darrell Belyk is running for re-election in the upcoming Airdrie Municipal Election.

Belyk was first elected to the council in 2013 and is seeking his fourth term. He explained that watching the city grow has only made him love Airdrie more and more.

"I see Airdrie as a growing community, it's connected and a safe and vibrant city where people live, work and play, and that's basically what I'm looking for, for the next five to 10 years, is where people don't have to leave the city for key services."

When asked about his re-election campaign, he plans on taking a different approach.

"I'm not going to spend a lot of dollars to advertise myself. With lots of candidates right now, and the amount of signage, I don't really want to litter the city with that many signs. I'm going with social media mostly to get myself out there. I just want to show that I can run a lean campaign and be successful at the end."

According to his website, he has four key platforms that he is advocating for and guides his vision for Airdrie's future.

• Advocating for Seniors

  • He is enthusiastic about ensuring that seniors have access to the support and services they need to live with dignity and independence. Belyk will work to enhance healthcare accessibility, transportation options, and community programs for older adults. Protecting the well-being of seniors remains one of his top priorities.

• Affordable Housing

  • He will continue to push for smart, sustainable housing solutions that keep homes within reach for working low-income families and individuals. He supports policies that increase housing supply while preserving community character. Everyone deserves a safe, affordable place to call home.

• Recreation

  • Belyk believes recreation is vital for healthy, connected communities. He is dedicated to improving local parks, trails, and recreational facilities for all ages and abilities. Investing in recreation means investing in quality of life.

• Responsible Growth

  • He supports balanced development that respects the environment and the needs of existing neighbourhoods. He advocates for infrastructure planning that keeps pace with growth, while ensuring Airdrie has livable, vibrant communities. Responsible growth means building a future that works for everyone.

Belyk went on to explain what goes through his head when he has to make an informed decision when it comes to council voting on projects and bylaws.

"I like to be informed about as much information as possible. When I'm at the table, and I haven't made a decision yet, I've got to hear from other councillors as well as the developers (if that is who is presenting) or the public might have some information that we haven't thought of, and that's through the important public engagement." 

He believes that he is, and will continue to be, a strong voice for Airdrie.

"I'm focused on the practical solutions, responsible growth and listening to residents. From my experience on the city council, I understand the importance of balancing progress with affordability."

He concluded by saying he always thinks about what Airdrie residents would want when it comes to decision time.

"I see Airdrie as a connected, safe and vibrant city. Within the five or 10-year vision that I have, hopefully I'll be able to help get that planning ahead for infrastructure, diversity and the local economy, while keeping the taxes reasonable."

Election Day in Airdrie is on October 20th.

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