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Local librarian runs for City Council

Aug 30, 2017 | 5:45 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB — Librarian Kris Samraj is the latest person to enter the City Council race.

There are just over two weeks left until The September 18th nomination deadline.

Anyone interested in running for a position on council or for mayor, must submit their intention to run before doing any sort of fundraising.

Samraj has attended nearly every city council meeting for the past three years to get a head start on how the process works.

He sits on several boards and committees in the community including the Heritage Committee.

Samraj said he hopes to bring some fresh perspective to council.

“One of the things I’ve noticed is it’s surprising the amount of times city council votes 9-0 on things,” he said. “I think consensus is great and there is definitely a place for it, but I think the community would be better served if there’s more diverse viewpoints brought to council for discussion around that table.”

He says his priorities are focusing on economic development, getting the city’s budget on track and building a council that’s more responsive to its citizens.

There are 12 other people currently in the running for one of eight spots on council. Incumbent Mayor Ted Clugston is the only one running for the mayor’s seat at this point in time.