(Supplied by Jack Van Rijn)

By David Opinko

Jack Van Rijn running to become Coaldale’s next mayor

Sep 27, 2021 | 10:49 AM

COALDALE, AB – It’s a two-man race for the mayor’s seat in Coaldale.

Jack Van Rijn has announced his candidacy, saying he wants to continue much of the work he has already been doing in the community.

He is one of the main people behind Citizens for a Better Coaldale, an advocacy group that has brought attention to issues with town council and administration.

Primarily, Van Rijn told LNN that accountability, transparency, and communications have been sticking points for many in Coaldale who feel that those currently in charge are not doing a good enough job.

“If elected mayor, my primary mission will be to re-establish and maintain positive relationships between town council and administration, as well the residents, business people, and community groups.”

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Were he to become mayor, he says he would turn to the residents for input before making any decisions on major capital projects.

Van Rijn served for 33 years as a firefighter with 21 of those as a Deputy Fire Chief. His experience also includes 37 years with the Kinsmen Club of Coaldale, 35 years with the Coaldale Chamber of Commerce, and one term as a Coaldale Town Councillor from 2013-2017, among involvement with other groups.

Running opposite to Van Rijn, Henry Doeve is also seeking the mayor’s seat.

General voting day for the 2021 municipal elections is October 18.

More election coverage can be found on the Municipal Election 2021 page on LethbridgeNewsNow.com here.