Three term Sylvan Lake councillor Ken MacVicar has decided not to run in the coming municipal election.
“It’s an opportune time to leave council,” he said. “I’ve had three good terms with lots of changes over the last nine years. A lot of initiatives started when I first got elected in 2004 have come to fruition.”
One of the major issues he is proud has been resolved is the idea that Sylvan Lake is just a party town. During weekends in 2005 and 2006 “we saw almost riots downtown”, he said. With work by council, RCMP and businesses in the area “we’ve turned the corner. Sylvan Lake is more family friendly now”.
“Seeing Lakeshore Drive revitalized is the most striking example of change,” he added. Another is Railway Promenade Park which was “probably one of the biggest eyesores. Now it’s a good place to park and walk through the community.”
Another big project completed was the new town hall. “I sat there the other day for the first time. That kind of facility compared with what we had … Sylvan Lake deserved that kind of change, a building we can be proud of.”
“Now is a good transition. It’s not often, as a councillor, you’re able to see change over a period of time, some things you were part of.”
He added his energy level was “not quite what it was during the first two terms. You can’t keep it up.”
MacVicar said new blood on council is always good. There will be at least two new councillors following the election after Councillor Sean McIntyre decided to run for mayor leaving his councillor position open.
“I’d like to thank the people of Sylvan Lake for electing me to three terms,” said MacVicar. I appreciate their support over nine years.
“The community is heading in the right direction. We’re seeing a bit of revitalization in the downtown core, it will happen.”
One of MacVicar’s passions has been his involvement with Sylvan Lake Lodge Foundation. “I would like to stay on as a member at large. If there’s a place for me, I would certainly consider staying on there,” he said. He’s been involved in seniors housing for over 30 years with provincial and local groups.