Bryce Laewetz has a background in corrections and construction. (Submitted photo)

By Nigel Maxwell

Election candidates

Ward 4 candidate promises delivery of fresh perspective

Sep 24, 2024 | 12:34 PM

The election race in Prince Albert’s Ward 4 is beginning to take off.

Bryce Laewetz, who has a background in construction and corrections, joins Brent Zbaraschuk as people who have announced their intentions to run. Through an emailed statement, Laewetz said he is eager to offer a fresh perspective focused on safety, fiscal responsibility, accessibility, and accountability for all residents.

He also noted his own family’s roots with respect to being business owners, farmers, teachers, tradespeople, and service industry workers.

“A strong economy is what helped keep food on the table growing up, and I know that building an attractive, thriving city will help sustain our local economy for future generations,” said Laewetz.

As a manager in his family’s construction business, Laewetz has led various projects within Prince Albert, gaining firsthand experience with municipal development. He feels his project management skills and deep understanding of project costs and budgeting have equipped him to bring much-needed balance to city hall.

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In addition to his construction experience, Laewetz has also worked on the front lines of corrections, which he noted have enabled him to gain insights into the root causes of crime, the complex dynamics of gangs, and the impact of organized crime on communities.

His top priorities as a candidate include:

Crime Prevention: Collaborating with community organizations, First Nations partners, police, social services, and other frontline agencies to enhance community safety.

Financial Transparency and Accountability: Leveraging his construction and project management expertise to ensure city finances are handled with transparency and responsibility.

Economic Development: Supporting local businesses, attracting new investments, and promoting sustainable growth to create jobs and ensure economic resilience.

Disability and Accessibility Advocacy: A personal commitment to improving accessibility and support for residents with disabilities, including working with community groups to ensure concerns are addressed.

Seniors Advocacy: Engaging with senior-led groups to address the needs and concerns of Prince Albert’s seniors.

Accessibility: Remaining accessible as a city councillor through various channels, using modern technology to streamline communication and community engagement.

“My priority is to address the issues that matter most to the residents of Ward 4 and Prince Albert — crime reduction, fiscal responsibility, and ensuring transparency in city hall,” Laewetz stated. “As a planner by nature, I understand that good ideas require well-thought-out plans to turn them into tangible solutions. Too often, municipal elections lead to the status quo. I’m committed to making sure every resident feels safe, proud, and heard. This is about more than just being a taxpayer; it’s about being a valued member of our community.”

Laewetz and his wife are deeply connected to Prince Albert. Their children have grown up here, participating in activities like dance, swimming, gymnastics, curling, and Girl Guides.

“Our kids have experienced everything this community has to offer, from schools to sports, and we believe in the future of Prince Albert,” Laewetz noted. “We both come from families who own or have owned businesses here. We understand the whole picture — what it takes to build a strong community, both economically and socially.”

Laewetz also emphasized the importance of collaboration with provincial and federal representatives to make meaningful progress on issues that require joint efforts across all levels of government.

According to Monday’s official list of candidates, there are none yet in Ward 4. Candidates have until Oct. 9 to get their papers in.

The incumbent Don Cody has previously announced he will not be seeking re-election.

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @nigelmaxwell