Another candidate has joined the race for the Town of Lunenburg’s Mayoral position.
Councillor Matt Risser, who has served the town since 2017, announced his intentions to run earlier this month.
If elected, Risser aims to focus on a number of issues affecting Lunenburg.
“I think the master planning process through Project Lunenburg has identified a number of issues we need to be working on,” he said.
“The three priorities I’d be coming in with would be implementing the Project Lunenburg plan, modernize the town’s government systems and enhancing and building community engagement.”
Risser chaired the Project Lunenburg Steering Team that oversaw the development of the town’s comprehensive community plan.
Born and raised in Lunenburg, Risser has spent time working with the provincial government, Canadian think tanks, and not-for-profits, while also working in other areas such as Halifax, Ontario and over seas.
Risser and anyone else striving for the position won’t face an incumbent this Fall – Rachel Bailey, the town’s current mayor, had announced she would not re-run for the position earlier this year.
Bailey’s work with the town is something that can’t be overwritten, but a change in position often brings a change in leadership.
“I think things have already started to go in a different way then they were,” he said.
“I have tremendous respect for mayor Bailey, she’s a dutiful and dedicated public servant. I think any time you get this transition, there is a change in style or approach and priority every time there is a council turnover. However, I don’t think everything needs to be upended.”
Campaigning for this election has proven difficult with the current COVID-19 pandemic leaving many uncomfortable with door knocking, but Risser said he intends to exhaust any avenue possible to hear from the community, while still keeping everyone safe.
