Mather campaign focused on business collaboration and small-town values

Karla Mather

By Heather Cameron
Westwind Weekly News

Stirling local Karla Mather is one of three who will be running in the Stirling by-election that will take place on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at the Stirling Community Centre, located at 409 – 2 Street, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

“This is my first time running in any type of government election and I am excited to have this experience,” said Mather. “After many years of being employed in the public sector including in three municipalities and two provincial health services, I am interested in getting involved in local government in a different role. If elected to the Village Council, I could bring my past education and experiences to make a positive contribution to our community.”

Born in Central Alberta, Mather has lived in both Halifax and Lethbridge and has also graduated with an undergraduate degree in Management from the University of Lethbridge. Mather is also married, has two children, as well as a variety of pets.

“I am so happy to have my kids growing up in Stirling,” said Mather. “It has the safety of a small community but has the amenities that I appreciate such as the pool, library, school and market. I am proud that we are designated as a National Historic site and have agricultural roots. I have excellent family members, co-workers and mentors who have shared their love for public service with me. My family is such a supportive force in my life, encouraging me to try different things and to be involved in the community I live in through different organizations and volunteer opportunities.  Through these supportive figures in my life, I have become the person I am creative, positive and determined.”

On top of all of that, Mather says, she has also been a local businessperson and artist in Stirling since 2018.

“As a local business owner, I would like to have more collaboration between businesses to help grow and develop our businesses in the community,” said Mather. “I also want to ensure our community maintains the small-town values and Stirling continues to be a place where residents feel proud to call their home. If elected, I plan to listen to the concerns and needs of the Village residents. I would work collaboratively with fellow council members to try to find solutions that our community is facing. I feel my experiences and creativity could support the decision-making process. My goal is to ensure that the Village of Stirling continues to be a wonderful place to live and a thriving community for all its residents.”

Mather encourages everyone in Stirling to help the community thrive however they can.

“There are so many ways to be involved in government that don’t require running in an election,” said Mather. “Some committees would love more members and volunteer opportunities throughout all levels of government. If you are interested in a level of government, reach out to someone and I am sure they would love to share their experiences.”  

In terms of her own campaigning for the by-election, Mather hopes to chat with residents over the next few weeks to discuss their ideas for Stirling. 

“It would also be great to organize a community event with the other two candidates, so all community residents could come out at one time to meet us all,” said Mather.

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