Gail Smith not seeking re-election

Chestermere City Councillor Gail Smith has decided not to seek re-election in this year's municipal election.
"It has been a pleasure to work with such an intelligent and dedicated Mayor and group of councillors who genuinely love this city," she said.
"I have enjoyed my time as a City Councillor and as Deputy Mayor."
Smith said that the last four years have been "a major learning experience."
As a member of council, Smith has worked to represent the city in a positive and progressive manner.
"There are many duties and expectations in that role that are not in the public eye," she said.
Working to guide and create city policies involves time, a love for Chestermere, dedication and team work she said.
"Administration provides the research and information and council then needs to make informed decisions," said Smith.
Along with working closely with administration, Smith said it is important to listen to the residents and communicate.
"The important thing is to keep the city running efficiently and make decisions based on what is best for the city and the majority of the people," she said.
Trying to do this has never been an easy task.
"You can never please everyone," she said.
With four years of dedicated to the city almost over, she has decided to look for new challenges and to spend more time with her family.
"I have decided it's time for me, " she said.
"I hope to spend more time with my family, more time on the golf course or other activity I enjoy, and I also hope to find another challenge for me."
As she returns to simply being a voter and resident of Chestermere Smith said that she hopes the new council "will take this job as a serious responsibility and be dedicated and eager to learn."