Gary Klassen running for Mayor of Lethbridge

“I think that I’m very good with negotiating and with business and this city could be run a bit better as a business.”

As much as he is passionate about his real estate career, he said he would give that up entirely if he became mayor to focus solely on his job in office.

One area that Klassen would look to target is what he believes is “wasteful spending”.

He gave an example that, a person might come across a roadwork site and see eight people there but only two are actually working, and how some jobs could be completed in one day but take three instead.

While COVID-19 public health restrictions are under provincial jurisdiction, Klassen would advocate for more “common sense” approaches for business restrictions and physical distancing requirements. That could include still allowing some people to attend restaurants or churches in person, but properly spaced out.

The candidate also focused heavily on Lethbridge’s drug crisis.

“I, myself, don’t agree with safe injection sites. I think it should be more of a rehabilitation site, you know, rather than give people the opportunity to use illegal drugs.”

Klassen thought that what The Mustard Seed had proposed to bring into Lethbridge was the right solution, although understanding that many residents did not want it in their back yards.

They wanted to open a supportive housing complex and a sober shelter, but they were forced to abandon those plans after funding requests were denied.

The Alberta 2021 municipal elections take place on October 18.

Lethbridge is guaranteed a new mayor as Chris Spearman will not be seeking re-election.

Three other candidates have already announced their bid for the mayoral seat.

A list of candidates who have filed nomination papers, including those running for mayor, council, and school board in Lethbridge, can be accessed here.

by David Opinko

Gary Klassen running for Mayor of Lethbridge

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