Dana Christensen running for Medicine Hat council on a platform of growth, transparency

A longtime sales manager in the electronics industry, Christensen previously worked for Directed Electronics, overseeing Western Canada.

During that time, he travelled extensively, logging nearly 93,000 kilometres annually to work with businesses from Vancouver to the Ontario border.

“I’ve seen what works in other communities and what doesn’t,” Christensen said.

“I believe in taking ideas that are successful elsewhere and adapting them in ways that benefit Medicine Hat.”

After being laid off during the COVID-19 pandemic due to global supply chain shortages, Christensen to working as both an entrepreneur and in management with an Alberta owned electronics company.

He also owns a small home-based business, offering barbecue and dessert products at local markets.

Christensen’s decision to run for council stems from what he calls “frustration as a citizen” and concern for the next generation.

“When I look at the youth graduating now — from high school or college — I keep wondering what opportunities they’ll have here in the future,” Christensen said.

“I want to see this city grow in ways that make young people want to stay.”

His top priorities include economic growth and development, government transparency and engagement, responsible spending, community safety and pride.

Christensen said he wants to make it easier for small businesses and entrepreneurs to succeed.

He added that the current regulatory process is too complex and discourages innovation, particularly for home-based and start-up businesses.

Christensen said the current council often appears reactive rather than proactive when engaging the public.

“If there were more conversations before decisions are made, there would be less backlash after the fact,” Christensen said.

You won’t notice any signs in the ground for Christensen.

He is running a word-of-mouth campaign to show voters he values financial responsibility.

“If I can run this campaign without spending money unnecessarily, that’s how I’ll treat taxpayers’ money too,” Christensen said.

He wants to see the city invest in maintaining public spaces, welcoming new industry, and making residents feel safe and heard.

“We pay good taxes here. We deserve to feel proud of our community and respected by those elected to lead it,” Christensen said.

Though this is his first time running for office, Christensen believes his background in business development and organizational restructuring brings value to the table.

He has years of experience helping companies across the West adjust to changing markets, streamline operations, and grow sustainably.

“I’m not in this for politics,” Christensen said.

“I’m in it for the people. I believe Medicine Hat deserves common-sense leadership that listens first, then acts.”

by Jesse Gill

Dana Christensen running for Medicine Hat council on a platform of growth, transparency

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