Another year is about to close and I am honoured and humbled to continue to serve as the Mayor of the Town of Sexsmith. While I didn’t grow up here, I have lived here for the last 25 years, and my heart bleeds Sexsmith and the whole South Peace region. I love the people, the long summer days (occasionally even the snow), the celebrations and events, and the feeling of
family that exists regardless of having no blood relations close by. There is something special about this town. I often tell people that it’s in the water, so once they drink it they’re hooked on us.
2025 has been a year of change: Election season brought two new faces to Council, properties have been bought and sold, we’ve lost some dear friends and community champions, businesses have grown and changed, and new residents have settled in, just to name a few.
Change is often feared or resisted. It can feel disorienting and unfamiliar, so it’s understandable why many dislike it. Throughout our history, however, this community has not only accepted but actively embraced change. Even the process of choosing the town name meant a change from the original choice of Bennville to our now beloved Sexsmith!
But we’re not just interested in change for the sake of change. We have an amazing history that is worth celebrating & remembering, and we strive to stay true to the heritage that makes Sexsmith so special. Where change is worthwhile is in improving the lives of those who choose to live & invest here now, and for all those generations to come. That’s part of how we honour those who came before - making the most of every opportunity and not allowing fear to drive decision-making.
It’s true that council plays an important role in giving direction to the Town and building up the community. You have chosen to put us here and we take that responsibility seriously. But equally important is the role that each of you play! Whether it’s volunteering with groups like the Elks, Legion, minor sports, FCSS, Wellness Coalition, museum, Farmer’s Market, library, or local churches, running a business (retail, service, professional, restaurant, industry, home based, etc), or even just getting to know your neighbour and saying hi to the people you pass on the walking trail, you matter. We would not thrive, or even survive, without every person playing their part. So thank you!! Each choice you make to engage in our community makes all the difference in Sexsmith continuing to be the wonderful hometown we know and love.
And when I look to the coming year, I know that whatever comes our way, the residents of Sexsmith will do what we have always done so well: stand together, care for each other, forge new paths, bring forward new ideas, and make this town even better. We are a community that gets our hands dirty to create the change we want to see. So let’s make 2026 amazing!