Cassandra Jones seeks Mackenzie council seat, campaigns on worker support and community well-being

As Mackenzie continues to navigate layoffs and economic challenges, Jones said she is running to help ensure council balances financial responsibility with the needs of residents.

“I would like to be the voice of balance,” she said. “As we enter these really trying fiscal times, I want to make sure that we’re able to balance financial prudence with meeting the broader needs of the community.”

Jones said supporting non-profit organizations would be an important part of that approach. She wants to see continued investment in community programming that is accessible and available to residents at little or no cost.

“I want to be able to support the non-profits as they’re building programming that is free and available to everyone,” she said.

She also emphasized the importance of creating inclusive and safe spaces while supporting activities that promote positive mental health.

“A big believer in play is one of the greatest combatants to poor mental health,” Jones said.

Jones has built her campaign around three key pillars: protecting workers, expanding vital services and strengthening community connections.

The first pillar focuses on supporting workers who may be affected by economic downturns and layoffs. Jones said she wants the district to explore creative ways of helping residents transition into new opportunities.

“I want to use some really creative strategies for protecting our workers that may be laid off,” she said.

Among the ideas she highlighted are encouraging entrepreneurship and helping residents turn personal interests into businesses. Jones also proposed developing a mentorship program involving the District of Mackenzie and the Chamber of Commerce to connect aspiring entrepreneurs with experienced business owners.

“New entrepreneurs can learn from people who have been doing it a long time,” she said.

Jones also supports implementing a living wage requirement for district contracts, arguing local government should lead by example when it comes to fair compensation.

“We lead by example by making sure that those who work for our community are being paid well to do so,” she said.

Her second campaign pillar centres on expanding services by working collaboratively with existing organizations and seeking new opportunities to attract workers and businesses to the community.

Jones said she would like to explore partnerships that bring travelling professionals and service providers to Mackenzie, while also encouraging investment in vacant buildings and homes.

She believes there is also potential to support more home-based businesses as part of the community’s economic development strategy.

The third pillar of Jones’ campaign focuses on strengthening connections within the community through recreation, events and opportunities for residents to engage with one another.

“Connection, play and community” are central themes of that part of her platform, she said.

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Email: Adam.Berls@pattisonmedia.com

by Adam Berls

Cassandra Jones seeks Mackenzie council seat, campaigns on worker support and community well-being

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