I felt the need to publicly “thank” those who showed their support in encouraging me to run as a candidate in the June 24 byelection. I am sincerely grateful for your interest and confidence in asking me to seek the councillor position to fulfil the vacancy resulting from the sudden resignation of Mr. Gilles Prefontaine.
It has always been my belief that a person needs to be committed to giving their best to a project or organization otherwise they should not accept the responsibility. To do less is unfair to both oneself and those they serve. At the outset, with the overwhelming encouragement of many, I decided to run and began to craft a platform as well as assemble a team and prepare a campaign strategy. However, since this byelection was unexpected and I had made other personal commitments, it became apparent to me there was a lot of work ahead in organizing a campaign as well as serving on council if I was successfully elected. These personal plans could not be changed and I realized I could not make a full commitment. For me to have undertaken this challenge now would have been contrary to my values so it is now time to look ahead to 2017 and then consider what commitment I am willing to make.
Again, thank you and my best regards.
Malcolm Parker, St. Albert
