Dana Dirks. (submitted photo)

By Nigel Maxwell

Civic politics

Former Raiders scout eyes Ward 2 council seat

Oct 1, 2020 | 8:00 AM

A man who is well known for his long drives at the ball park hopes to hit a home run with voters this fall.

Dana Dirks has announced plans to run for the Ward 2 council seat. Dirks, who moved to Prince Albert in 1989, and currently work as an operations manager with Hatchet Lake Economic Development and Caribou Transport, explained to paNOW he felt compelled to run, knowing the challenging times the city faces as a result of COVID-19.

“Talking with lots of people in the community and friends, it just seemed like it was time I put forth some of my time and energy and ideas and see if I can help be a part of the solution going forward for the city,” he said.

Dirks, 47, has managed businesses since he was in his early 20’s, and is well known for his community involvement through his time spent with minor softball and minor hockey (AA and the Mintos). He was also a scout for the Raiders during their championship run.

Recognizing the size of his ward and the large demographic, Dirks said one of the big issues he would concentrate on is property taxes and making sure people receive the appropriate level of services for what they are paying. He’s also looking to be a part of discussions surround the new arena and aquatic recreation facility.

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“I moved here at a young age and I’ve had many opportunities to leave and I just don’t want to. I love the city and I want to be a part of the solution,” he said.

Dana Dirks with his family. (submitted photo)

Also recognizing that city council is a big commitment and will put him in the public spotlight, Dirks joked his family took the news well when he shared his plans with them, adding his kids even offered to make the T-shirts.

“I’ve basically been a public figure for a long time with all the sports stuff that I do in town so it’s not like I’m gonna shy away from what needs to be done or what needs to be said,” he said.

As of Thursday morning, there are two other candidates in this ward: incumbent Terra Lennox-Zepp and Devin Gorder. The civic election is Nov. 9.

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nigel.maxwell@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell