Ted Clugston has been on city council before and feels he knows how to work as a cohesive group focused on getting big things done. He initially wasn't sure if he'd run for mayor again, but ultimately chose to seek one of eight councillors chairs.--Submitted Photo
asmith@medicinehatnews.com
Former mayor Ted Clugston is seeking a return to municipal politics, this time as a councillor.
When initially putting his name forward, Clugston admitted he filled out both the council and mayoral paperwork, initially unsure of which he wanted to run for. However, after introspection and discussion ultimately decided he would be best able to aid the city by being part of a newly formed council.
He brings with him experience with two terms as a councillor and two terms as mayor, and Clugston he feels will be a great help looking toward the new term.
“I have experience in consensus building, I’ve lived here for 57 years. I have pretty deep roots in the community. I think I understand Medicine Hat really well,” said Clugston. “I think that around that table with the new council, and to be honest the new administration as well, I can really help with that.”
He believes that while there are good ideas surrounding this election regarding big projects to spur economic development, the city needs to “walk before it runs” and focus on getting back on track.
Once the house is in order, Clugston would then set his sights on downtown.
“When I was first elected in 2007 the downtown was completely vacant, and over the years we had it almost back up to 100 per cent occupancy,” said Clugston. “Now the downtown is on a slow decline again, both with the homeless population and even with the businesses. So I really think the downtown and homeless situation is something that we need to tackle right away.”
Finally, Clugston considers himself something of a “rec guy” who would like to see investment into infrastructure for the benefit of the residents of Medicine Hat. He remarked that during his terms, councils saw several projects built, something he would like to see council return to after what he feels has been four years without any major builds.
“My councils, we built berms, we built fire halls, we built leisure centres and we built event centres,” said Clugston. “We really invested back in not just infrastructure like water and sewer, but also facilities.”
Residents can expect the Clugston they had known from previous terms as he plans to stay true to himself if elected.
“They know that I’m not really a talker, I’m a doer, and actions speak louder than words. I know those are old phrases, but you can say whatever you want when you’re running for council. What matters is if you do it,” said Clugston.
He hopes Hatters remember a drama-free, focused council when he was in office, which followed through on what would be best for the city.
As the election continues to draw closer, Clugston is grateful for his campaign team and he has capitalized on the pleasant weather to be out and talking to people, handing out fliers and making sure he has his finger to the pulse of Medicine Hat.
He described his campaign as “running as if he is in last place” and taking nothing for granted, and he looks forward to further connecting with residents and sharing his vision for a resilient and progressive Medicine Hat.
