By James Wood

Symmonds exiting city hall, running for public school board

Sep 8, 2017 | 8:00 AM

MEDICINE HAT, ALTA- The last undeclared member of Medicine Hat’s city council will not be seeking re-election.

Celina Symmonds, who has been serving as a city councillor for Medicine Hat for the past four years, has instead announced her intentions to run for a trustee seat on the local public school board.

“I feel like I have some unique perspectives to bring to the role of Public School Board Trustee, due to my past and current experiences within the school system, with my own children” said Symmonds, in a news release issued on Friday.

“During these challenging and changing times in the world, it is increasingly more important to have representation that brings rational thought and open and transparent communication. I know I bring those things to the table. I want a school system that is inclusive, protects every child’s rights, and provides a comfortable environment to allow our kids to reach their full potential while ensuring their families continue to have a strong and balanced voice in our schools.”

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As for her thoughts on the exit from City Hall, Symmonds said she enjoyed her time on council, and held ‘the utmost respect’ for Mayor Ted Clugston and her fellow councillors.

“I think we had to make some difficult decisions that took courage to make,” said Symmonds.

“They weren’t always the most popular but I feel like each decision was made with the best interests of the City and it’s residents at heart. I’ll definitely still be involved and follow civic politics but I’m ready to step away from Council and take on a new challenge. I wish the best of luck to all my colleagues who are seeking re-election to Council and to all of the other candidates who will allow their name to stand for election. I’d also like to thank the residents of Medicine Hat who entrusted me with the role of Councillor this past term and ask for their support in my new endeavour.”

Prior to her announcement, Symmonds was the last incumbent to not make her electoral intentions known in the upcoming municipal elections.

Councillors Bill Cocks, Robert Dumanowski, Julie Friesen, Les Pearson, Jim Turner and Brian Varga have all filed papers to seek re-election.

Other candidates who are seeking election for city council include former councillors Phil Turnbull and Darren Hirsch, as well as Jim Black, Myles Mulholland, Maureen Roberts, Kris Samraj and Charles Turner.

Mayor Ted Clugston is also seeking re-election, and is being challenged by Scott Raible.

The deadline for nominations is September 18.

-with files from Leah Murray and Charles Lefebvre