Having lived in Red Deer for two decades, one City resident is looking to be elected to council and spend tax dollars wisely.

Dan McKenna, a gaming consultant who guides charities through the process of their volunteer hours at the casino, has announced his bid for a City council seat.

“I’ve always had an interest in politics and I’m always paying attention to the news and I know what’s going on locally, provincially and federally,” he said. “I just thought it was time to put my name in and represent this wonderful City we live in.”

McKenna said his goal as a councillor, if elected, would be to keep the status quo and to help the City continue to grow at a good pace.

“I want to take care of the taxpayers’ dollars and I really want to see where the money is going and where we are spending it,” he said. “I’m a firm believer that you have to pay taxes in the City you live in. But when those tax dollars aren’t spent prudently, issues arise.

“What I am hearing from people is that they are most concerned about where their tax dollars are going and what services they are getting for those tax dollars. Good value for your taxes is the issue in any city.”

McKenna said if he is elected he will also look to get better transportation for the City’s disabled and have more readily available taxis for patrons after the bars close in the City’s downtown.

He added if elected, he will have a common sense attitude, fiscal responsibility, a sense of humility and a positive attitude to add to the table.

“What’s resonating with me is the down home, good old boy mentality that is going to take care of people and look after what they want – talk to them and listen to them and see what you can do,” he said. “You can’t win all of the battles, but if you can win a few then you’re on the right track.”

efawcett@reddeerexpress.com