Here are Blanc's responses to questions that we posed to all of the candidates:
Q: Why are you running for council?
A: I am running because I want to continue be a voice for the citizens of Moose Jaw. I said 4 years ago that councilors should treat citizens as there customers, and i still believe in that We need to work for the citizens Moose Jaw. I have tried to represent everyone that called me We will have some major challenges in the next few years. We have the Crescent View pump house that needs considerable work or a complete replacement. We have an aging outdoor pool that needs to be replaced. We have the 4th ave Viaduct that needs major repair along with road repair. I want to work for the citizens to ensure that these issues can be completed in a fiscally responsible manner.
Q: Do you have experience in public service/community boards/politics?
A: My fours years on City Council along with being on the Parks & Recreation committee, Moose Jaw Museum & Art Gallery, Moose Jaw Exibitiion Board, Roads & Infrastructure Committee and Moose Jaw Police Commission has provided the opportunity to have considerable experience. My past experience on different boards, both within Moose Jaw and in previous work has provided me the opportunity to deal with complex budgets and issues that have provided me the experience and knowledge to be sit of City Council.
Q: Do you think experience matters one way or another?
A: Experience on City Council is a huge asset. But past experience can also be a benefit. With my experience on council along with the the attached boards and previous board experience, I believe I have the qualifications.
Q: What topic/policy issue/incident was the tipping point for you?
A: I don't think there is a specific topic or policy. I want to continue to represent the citizens of Moose Jaw. As stated earlier we will have some major infrastructure projects in the next few years. I would like to be part of these discussions to represent the citizens of Moose Jaw.
Q: What criticisms do you have, if any, for the politics you've seen over the last two or three years?
A: I have always used the philosophy of dealing with the issue and not personality. I feel City Council should make decisions based on facts and information and leave personality out of it. If the majority of Council voted in favor of an issue, which I voted against, I still supported it as it was passed by the majority. I believe I have had a good working relationship with the other City Councilors, Mayor and City Administration. I might not have agreed with there stand on an issue. But respected their opinion and never had any personal issues with it.
Q: What is your plan to compromise/cooperate with fellow council members to accomplish policy goals?
A: Although we may not agree on every issue. It is important to hear the views of everyone. This allows a person to hear all the details which assist in making informed decisions. I have always left personality out of all decisions and will continue to operate in that manner.
Q: What else do you want voters to know about you?
A: I have attended all Council, Executive meetings along with other committee meetings in person. I feel I have listened to citizens and other councilors which allowed me to make informed decisions. I have been extremely honored to represent the citizens of Moose Jaw not only at City Council meetings, but outside Moose Jaw at other venues. I will continue to take to role as City Councilor as a privilege and would once again be honored to represent you on City Council.
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: I will work with any Councilor. However I might agree but might also disagree. I will continue to deal with the issues or concerns that residents have. I have not nor will I let personality control how I vote on issues.
A candidates forum is taking place on Monday at 7 p.m. at the Centennial Auditorium at Peacock Collegiate. 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.