Two-term Town Councillor Alex Reed is running for a third term.
He announced his candidacy on August 28.
Reed has been a councillor since 2017, when the whole of the current council was elected. A long time university administrator with close to 33 years experience as a registrar and vice president with SAIT, Trent University, University of Northern British Columbia, Athabasca University, Brock University, and Meritus University before he was elected to council, Reed says his re-election bid will focus on “protecting what [Cochranites] love.”
Reed has outlined a three-pronged campaign strategy focusing on environmental stewardship, sustainable growth, and diversifying the Town’s tax base.
“Growth is important,” he said. “But it must be balanced with protecting the natural beauty and quality of life that define Cochrane.”
To reduce the burden on homeowners, Reed says he is committed to broadening Cochrane’s revenue sources.
“We can’t rely solely on residential taxes to fund our future,” he said. “A fairer, more diverse tax structure will protect residents from steep increases as the town continues to expand.”
Reed stated that he has a proven track record of championing Cochrane’s rivers, valleys, and green spaces, and is proposing protecting the Big Hill as a natural feature, advocated for securing future parkland such as the Girl Guide Camp, and helped establish Cochrane’s Environmental Task Force. He added that safeguarding water systems, preserving green spaces, and balancing growth with conservation is central to his vision as a councillor.
“Cochrane’s rivers, streams, rolling foothills, and green spaces are treasures,” Reed said. “We must protect what we love, while ensuring our community grows responsibly and sustainably for generations to come.”
In 2017, Reed was the sixth and final council candidate elected, beating out perennial candidate Dan Cunin by eight votes. In 2021, he was re-elected to a second full term, finishing in sixth place again.
