Peter Shokeir | [email protected]
Paul Butler, who is currently a municipal councillor for Jasper, will run for the mayor’s chair this upcoming municipal election on Oct. 18.
“Jasper deserves to have a choice, and deserves a change,” Butler said in a statement. “The only local government Jasper has ever known has been lead — most ably, it’s true — by Mr. Ireland.
“It’s time to experience what a different vision of leadership can look and feel like. I’ve heard from many residents that, after more than two decades, it’s time we explore a new view and take a new direction. I want to lead us in that new direction.”
Butler explained that Jasper is facing “real and material challenges” and described the next four years as “pivotal” as Jasper recovers from COVID.
“Doing things the way we’ve always done them isn’t going to be good enough,” he said.
“After four years experiencing and learning how Council works, in the next few weeks I’ll be talking about how Council can, and must, work better, listen more, and look forward.”
Mayor Richard Ireland has also confirmed he will run for re-election this fall.
This election, Jasperties will vote for one mayor and six councillors.
The final day for nominations is Sept. 20.
