ASSINIBOIA - Ryan Biletski has submitted his name as a candidate for the open Town Councillor position for the Town of Assiniboia. Residents can read the below interview to get to know the candidate:
“I’ve always considered Assiniboia my hometown. My family moved here in 1994 and my father took a position with SaskEnergy. After I graduated in 2003, I got on with SaskTel, and have worked in Regina, Yorkton, and Weyburn in various capacities. An opportunity arose for me three years ago to return to Assiniboia. I felt it was home for me so I took the chance and I haven’t looked back.
“In Yorkton I was the Senior Shop Steward for the east side of Saskatchewan and have some experience with contract negotiation as well as training in conflict management and stewardship.” Ryan feels that his employment and business training will be a valuable asset as a member of Town Council.
“I’m a member of the curling board in town. It was an interesting experience to host the Scotties event. Talsa and I like slowpitch, golfing, walking around town, and curling in the winter. I also play men’s baseball and rec hockey.
“I’m running for Town Council because I have always felt connected to Assiniboia and I love that it’s so community minded.
“Service organizations like Kinettes, CIA, and others are passionate about giving their time and resources. I want to give back in a constructive way too – to get some skin in the game.”
Support Community Promotion – “Assiniboia already does an incredible job of promotion, through trade shows, golf tourneys, The Shurniak, ball diamonds and more. We just need to support them through checking for grants, or other provincial funds and opportunities to help these organizations do what they do best.
Health-Care Services –“Everyone banded together to keep our hospital open during COVID. I believe that by working with SHA and Provincial counterparts we can bring it back to full working capacity again. Our hospital cares for many people in a substantial area. You really hope it’s there for you at your time of need.
Infrastructure - “Town Council is working on roads, sidewalks and water infrastructure. Given our current economic situation, the rise of inflation, and supply chain issues, we have to move forward cautiously and consider the rate of return on our investments. We’re in an infrastructure deficit, and taxpayers understand that it’s better to focus on foundational issues now, otherwise it will cost more as time goes on.
Transparency - “The residents would appreciate transparency – to see a calculated timeline as to when things will be repaired. We live in a democracy. Citizens should have a say in major financial decisions through a vote or plebiscite.
Child Care –“Younger families are struggling to find child care. We need to work with provincial and local organizations to help us open up places for our children. It’s important for quality of living and would enhance our diversified workforce as there are mothers ready to return to work.
Working Together – “As a society we’ve become polarized in our opinions. Sometimes people don’t want to listen to an opposing view but we need to talk again and work together even though we may not agree on everything. We need to listen and respect each other. As we work together, we can keep Assiniboia sustainable and vibrant.
“I wish Renee all the best in her campaign. She’s a wonderful volunteer for the community.
“I’d like to see everyone get engaged in their town. Come out and vote on Wednesday, June 8.”
