What Have I Been Hearing So Far...?

terryboettcher
Oct 4
4 min read

As I’ve been out meeting with residents across Division Three in the County of Two Hills, one thing is clear: people care deeply about the future of our county, and they want to know their voices are being heard. The issues that matter to you — from how we care for our seniors, to how we manage our assets, to how we support local families and businesses — are the issues that matter to me as well.

I believe the role of a County Councillor is to listen, to lead with integrity, and to ensure that decisions are made for the good of the entire community, not just a select few. Below are some of the key priorities I have heard from you, and how I hope to address them, because I believe that Your Voice Matters.

Caring for Our Seniors

Our county lodges — Hillside Lodge and Eventide Homes in Two Hills, Eagle View Lodge in Myrnam, Eagle Hill Lodge in Willingdon and Northern Lights Manor in Derwent — are more than buildings. They are homes. Seniors deserve safe, comfortable spaces with rooms that are appropriately sized for their needs. As Councillor, I will work with our partners to ensure that these facilities reflect the dignity and respect our seniors have earned. After a lifetime of contributing to our communities, they should never have to settle for less than quality care and a decent place to live.

Respecting Taxpayer Dollars

County residents work hard for their money, and the taxes they contribute represent a significant investment in our community. It is only fair that people expect to see real value in return for those dollars. As Councillor, I am committed to carefully reviewing county operations to find efficiencies and ensure that ratepayers are getting the best possible value for the services the county provides.

This means asking tough but necessary questions about how money is spent, identifying areas where we can improve, and making sure that priorities align with the needs of residents. Just as important, I will commit to transparency in sharing information on county spending, so every resident can clearly see how their money is being used to strengthen and sustain our community. When taxpayers know their contributions are respected and managed wisely, trust grows and our county moves forward together.

Ethical, Transparent County Business

Trust in local government matters. County decisions and resources should benefit all residents, not just provide perks for a few. I will advocate for clear, ethical operations in all county business, ensuring that every dollar spent and every asset used is for the betterment of the community as a whole. Transparency builds trust, and trust is the foundation of strong local government.

Part of this commitment means taking a closer look at how our county currently operates. We need to identify what is already working well and celebrate those successes, while also being honest about what needs to change. By creating a positive and respectful work culture within the county, we can improve efficiency, morale, and ultimately the services that residents depend on. A healthy organizational culture ensures that county staff and leadership are working together toward the same goal: serving the people of Two Hills County with integrity and excellence.

Responsible Asset Management and Long-Term Planning

Our county’s assets — land, equipment, infrastructure, and financial resources — are valuable, and they must be managed wisely. Selling off assets or services to outside municipalities should only happen if it is in the long-term best interest of our residents. I will push for sustainable planning that ensures today’s decisions won’t shortchange tomorrow’s needs.

Protecting Freedoms

I am committed to standing up for the personal and religious freedoms that many of us hold dear. Rural Alberta is built on strong families, faith, and community ties, and I will work to ensure these values remain protected in county decision-making.

Sustainable Development of Natural Resources

Agriculture, oil, and gas remain the backbone of our local economy. At the same time, we need to ensure responsible stewardship of these resources so they can continue to support families for generations to come. I will support policies that encourage sustainable development, attract investment, and enhance the reputation of Two Hills County as a place where industries can thrive responsibly.

Supporting Local Businesses and Jobs

We all want our young people to have the choice to stay in rural Alberta, and that means creating opportunities close to home. I will support initiatives that help local businesses grow, diversify employment opportunities, and attract quality jobs that encourage families to settle down and build their future here. When our businesses succeed, our whole county thrives.

Responsibly Investing in Recreation for Youth and Families

Recreation is more than just play — it’s where children and youth learn teamwork, resilience, and community pride. Whether through sports teams, recreational facilities, or community programs, I believe the county has a role in supporting accessible recreation opportunities. Giving our young people chances to belong and succeed helps build stronger communities for everyone.

Strengthening Emergency and Health Services

Safety and health are at the heart of strong communities. I will advocate for:

County Fire Departments: ensuring they have the resources, leadership, and strategic planning to remain safe, sustainable, and effective for the long term.
Policing: as federal and provincial governments consider the future of the RCMP, I will make sure our county’s voice is heard, protecting the affordability and effectiveness of community policing.
Health Services: sustainable care at every level — our medical clinic, emergency and acute care, long-term care, SAGE, and ground ambulance services — must be protected and strengthened so residents know help is there when they need it.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

These are the issues I’ve heard raised most often in conversations with residents across Division Three. But this list is not complete. If you have a concern that isn’t mentioned here — or if you want to share more about any of these topics — I would love to hear from you.

Together, we can make sure that Division Three and the County of Two Hills continue to be a place where families are proud to live, work, and belong.