The town of The Pas in northern Manitoba is preparing for a new mayor as the current vacancy will be filled on Oct. 28, following a period of over two months without a mayor in the town of 5,500 residents. The upcoming election will also see the selection of six town councillors and a new board of trustees for the Kelsey School Division, overseeing six public schools in The Pas.
Among the candidates, three are vying for the mayoral position, with an additional 10 individuals running for council seats and seven contenders competing for four school board positions. The town has been without a mayor since former mayor Andre Murphy resigned from office on Aug. 10 to prioritize spending time with family, leaving the position vacant.
Deputy Mayor Carrie Atkinson’s proposed appointment as interim mayor until the election was not approved by the town council three days after the vacancy. The council faced a 3-3 tie, and without a mayor’s vote to break the deadlock, no appointment was made.
Herb Jaques, a former mayor seeking re-election, emphasized the potential for growth in northern Manitoba, particularly with developments such as the Port of Churchill expansion. Jaques aims to position The Pas advantageously to capitalize on these opportunities, focusing on initiatives like seniors’ housing and job creation.
Ralph McLean, a health and safety manager and former Green Party candidate, is running for mayor with a focus on maintaining essential infrastructure, addressing homelessness, and securing grants to alleviate financial burdens without raising taxes. McLean stresses prioritizing community needs and fostering positive development.
James Ridderikhoff, the youngest candidate at 34, aims to enhance The Pas for families and children, drawing from his experience as a civilian officer leader in the Royal Canadian Army Cadets. Ridderikhoff supports community safety programs, beautification efforts, and initiatives like local sports leagues while advocating for housing development and collaboration with various local stakeholders.
The election is scheduled for Oct. 28, with polling stations open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at The Pas Métis Hall on Gordon Avenue. Advance voting will be available on Oct. 21 at the town office on Edwards Avenue.