Christopher Stephan, 29, founder and CEO of Shared Homes International Inc. and Stephan Law Group, announced yesterday he will seek a spot on council.

“I want to get involved,” he said. “Red Deer has been great to me and my family, but I want to be even better for our children. I offer energy, efficiency, and innovation.”

Stephan said he would like to see a safer, stronger and greener community.

He said he would like to see a greater community police presence, including additional foot patrol, install surveillance cameras downtown and resources directed at reducing drug addictions and trafficking.

Stephan said it’s also important to ensure the best value for tax dollars spent, seek out federal and provincial financing for needed local infrastructure and capital projects and to encourage job creation through innovation and entrepreneurship.

In terms of keeping the community green, Stephan would like to see the River Valley Extension and Tributaries Park Concept Plan implemented, as well as continue enhancements to public recreation facilities, including a 50-metre pool and lead out in environmental sustainability issues.

Stephan is a member of the Law Society of Alberta, and New York State Bar. He also holds an MBA from Queen’s University and is currently working on a master’s degree in Green Building from the San Francisco Institute of Architecture as a distance learner.

Meanwhile, Dianne Wyntjes, Matt Chapin, Paul Harris and Jim Watters will also vie for a seat on council.

Councillors Buck Buchanan and Lynne Mulder have also declared their candidacy. Councillors Cindy Jefferies and Tara Veer have said they will most likely run again while Councillors Lorna Watkinson-Zimmer and Larry Pimm have announced they will not seek re-election.

Mayor Morris Flewwelling has also announced that he will seek another term in the mayor’s chair.

The municipal election will run Oct. 18.