Medicine Hat Councillor Van Dyke will seek re-election

“In 2021 I ran on a detailed platform of maintaining and creating social prosperity in our community by providing recreational opportunities, robust government and public services, and an equitable, diverse, and inclusive culture focused on social development,” Van Dyke said.

She highlighted equity and fairness as driving factors in her decision making, with a focus on voting for solutions that serve the long-term interests of the entire community.

Looking forward to the opportunity to continue seeking balance in delivering essential services and valued amenities across Medicine Hat.

Van Dyke said that working across difference is one of the greatest challenges facing municipal leaders, but something she is well-equipped to do.

“Medicine Hat is made up of people with diverse perspectives, needs, and lived experiences, which requires the ability to build consensus, find common ground, and move forward together,” Van Dyke said.

During her first term, Van Dyke said she has enhanced her knowledge and understanding of municipal governance, complementing her previous experience on both local and provincial boards.

She highlighted training and mentorship programs she has completed which include the elected officials education program and the municipal elected leaders certificate from the University of Alberta’s Augustana extended education, as well as completing the AESO continuing education program.

Van Dyke said her work on numerous committees has given her a comprehensive understanding of municipal operations, enabling thoughtful, informed decision-making.

“Hatters can be assured that I approach this role with care and commitment,” Van Dyke said.

“Whether engaging with regional partners, other levels of government, or city administration, I always keep the best interests of our community front and center.”

Her committee appointments have included:

Energy & Infrastructure Committee – Chair
Economic, Land and Strategic Planning & Development Committee – Chair
Energy, Land & Environment Committee – Chair & Vice-Chair
Development & Infrastructure Committee – Chair
Public Services Committee – Vice-Chair
Audit Committee
Emergency Advisory Committee
Council Employee Committee
Police Commission
Shortgrass Regional Library System Board – Vice-Chair
Southern Regional Stormwater Drainage Committee
Inter-City Forum on Social Policy
Alberta Municipal Climate Leadership Council – Municipal Climate Change Action Centre
Physician Attraction & Retention

“I am very proud of my record of pushing as many agenda items as possible into open meetings of the committees I chaired,” Van Dyke said.

“The various committees I chaired frequently covered subject matter that touched on third party interests, or could otherwise cause harm if made public, and required a high level of confidentiality until they reached the stage at which they were moved into open committee or council,” she added.

“Prior to my chairing of the energy & infrastructure committee, there were only two open meetings in 2021. I have supported the disclosure of information to the public provided that such information does not compromise the city’s or third-party interests, or unreasonable invasion of the privacy of individuals.”

Van Dyke said that Medicine Hat is an exceptional city, but is not immune to the pressures impacting communities across our country.

“Strong themes that continue to be a priority for residents include affordability, community services and safety, and economic growth,” Van Dyke said, adding all are continued priorities of hers.

Outside of council, Van Dyke said she brings decades of experience in community advocacy and nonprofit leadership.

“As food security coordinator with Community Food Connections Association, I work to make it easier for Hatters to access affordable, nutritious foods and see firsthand how critical it is to address the rising cost of living through community-based initiatives,” Van Dyke said.

“This role has deepened my understanding of the social determinants of health and reinforced the vital connection between strong communities and individual well-being.”

She was raised on a mixed conventional family farm south of Rattlesnake Dam.

Van Dyke said she learned the value of community service early in life through the example set by her family.

She has spent most of her adult life in Medicine Hat, where she lives with her husband, Mike, their two daughters, and their house rabbit.

by Jesse Gill

Medicine Hat Councillor Van Dyke will seek re-election

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