I feel that the public has been underrepresented, and I am confident that I can make a difference.
My career background is firmly rooted in human services. Notable achievements include facilitating clients' attainment of meaningful employment that met their financial requirements and providing programming to individuals across all age groups to enhance their social and educational needs. These experiences were highly rewarding and equipped me with the skills to engage with diverse populations in complex scenarios effectively. This expertise proved invaluable during my tenure as a Town Councillor from 2017 to 2021.
Excellent listening skills, strong attention to detail, and critical thinking are key strengths needed for leadership.
Supporting strengths include a genuine interest in representing and engaging with the community, the ability to handle conflict calmly, to speak up in tough situations, and to show compassionate leadership.
I believe a mayor must represent the people. Offering fiscally responsible decision-making and financial stewardship, on behalf of ratepayers, is essential. Good governance, communication, and public engagement policies ensure that members of the public have a voice and ways to be heard. Specifically, the Mayor and Council must review past priorities and evaluate if these meet the current needs of High River.
This question should be addressed once the Mayor and Council are elected and have consulted with the business and public communities. This is a vital campaign topic to gather feedback.
When I ran for Town Council in 2017, the Vital Signs report indicated that High River's limited employment sectors made it hard to live and work here; eight years later, this remains unchanged. We must address the lack of industries providing livable wages in High River. Local employment fosters engagement, shopping, and meaningful connections, benefiting our social and financial economy.
Despite being separate entities, Town Council and School Divisions must communicate effectively to understand the needs of High River and our educational community.
High River has 700 acres of parks, boulevards, and green spaces. This is why I love living here and value this community. Public engagement on parks and green spaces began in 2019, and a Parks, Trails and Open Space Master Plan was created in 2021. Over the past 6 years, priorities may have changed, and a review of the master plan is warranted. I intend to respect these town assets and advocate for thoughtful planning.
Ensuring transparency is crucial. All Committee of the Whole and Regular Council meetings will be open to the public and live-streamed for convenient viewing. Public Comments will be allowed at both the beginning and end of meetings, enabling the Mayor/Council to hear the voices of citizens before making decisions.
We will provide various opportunities for public engagement in both casual and formal settings. All Public Correspondence will be included in Council packages to keep Council aware of public concerns and feedback.
Mayor/Council updates after meetings and reaching out to the media for comments are beneficial ways to inform the community. These measures will help keep everyone informed.
Allowing the community to voice concerns is essential, and no one should feel intimidated to speak with their elected officials. As a Town Councillor (2017-2021), I often received thanks for listening to concerns.
As your Mayor, I will schedule regular opportunities for you to share your concerns and arrange meetings that suit your needs. Although I prefer face-to-face interaction, I am open to other communication methods. During my campaign, I will ask people how to best meet their engagement needs.
I understand that an elected official represents the people, not the town administration. This principle is important to me. From 2021-2025, I attended Town Council meetings and shared my concerns during public comments, when allowed.
Even though I am not currently on Council, people seek my help on Town issues. I am committed to advocating for the residents and businesses of High River, and I look forward to continuing this advocacy as your Mayor.
There are many ways to support my campaign. We will have a volunteer meeting soon to determine the best ways for you to help, including door knocking, placing signs, meet and greets, donations, fundraising, moral support, and encouraging others to research candidates.
Most importantly, get out and vote on October 20, 2025.
I can be reached by phone, text, email or social media as follows:
· email: carolmacmillanformayor@gmail.com
· Facebook: carolmacmillanformayor
· Instagram: @carolmacmillanformayor
· YouTube: @CarolMacMillanForMayor
· Phone: 403-680-7630