After moving from Calgary to Cochrane just over two years ago, Don Leask says the charm of small-town living quickly won him over. Now, the longtime construction professional hopes to bring a new voice to town council.
“I moved here for small town living and connection to our community,” said Leask. “I want a place where kids could walk to school safely, where we know our neighbours, and where we feel safe even at night.”
Leask said he takes pride in calling Cochrane home, but added he’s become increasingly aware of frustrations residents share online — from traffic congestion and road maintenance to park upkeep and public safety.
“I see the frustration building,” he said. “There seems to be a lot of disconnect between our current mayor, council, and the citizens.”
Leask believes Cochrane’s identity as a safe, family-oriented community is at risk and says he wants to help protect it.
“Our seniors feel unrepresented, and our families need to be stood up for,” he said. “They need a voice, and I want to be somebody who stands up for them.”
With more than 20 years in the construction industry, Leask said he brings knowledge of infrastructure to the table.
“I’ve built infrastructure my whole life. I know what works and what we’re doing now is not working,” he said. “We need to be smart with how we spend our money and transparent to all our citizens.”
Responsible growth, community identity, and fiscal responsibility are at the centre of his campaign, with a focus on making decisions that reflect the will of residents, he added.
The 2025 municipal election takes place Oct. 20. More information about Leask’s campaign is available at donleask.nationbuilder.com/don_leask.
