Originally from Ontario I worked at the head office of Home Hardware for 10 years,  from 1971-1981.  From 1981-1988 we managed stores in Alberta and BC. for different Home dealers. In 1988 our family moved to Invermere to manage the building supply side for the previous owners of Home Hardware. In 1993 I had the opportunity to buy the company and settle into Invermere for the long term. My wife and partner in business, have a family of three, Joshua, Timothy and Sarah.

Other than business I have been highly involved with many groups in and around town. My belief is that if you are going to live and work in an area you need to give back in that area. Some of my volunteer work has been working with the (Invermere Business Committee) IBC creating special events for the town.

I have also been involved with the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce and Columbia Valley Rockies, helping to build both programs.  I have also been involved in fundraising programs with several other groups.

Some highlights that I am proud of were chairing the IBC. And planning and holding many special events that attracted both visitors and locals to the down town. I was elected president of the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce for two different terms; being part of a small committee of the chamber instrumental in the building of the chamber hall and visitor centre. I am the President of the Columbia Valley Rockies, and proud of many of our accomplishments. The planning and event coordination of the Bull Riding in the Rockies has turned it into one of the valley’s biggest events. And I’m proud to be a part of that team.

Invermere certainly runs deep in my heart. I have always been a promoter of our community in many ways, such as by working on different committees for special events and planning, and strategy sessions for improvements to our local service area; helping to build parks or recreation fields, all from a volunteer side.

I was elected to council in 2008 – 2011, and enjoyed my time. I would like to take the next step and run for mayor as I am confident I can listen to the concerns of our citizens and work well with a team of engaged councilors, to bring a positive image and community feel to town.

The first three years has been a big learning curve. I sat on the audit and budget committee, and worked hard at keeping taxes in check while reducing the differential on the business side to try and keep us competitive, and an attractive place to do business. I also worked on the library board, and was successful in highlighting the importance of our library thus getting the budget needed to operate on a more consistent basis  with proper staff levels and extended hours.

Along with the rest of council we developed more trails and enhanced park areas. Invermere needs to become a strong service area with enhanced recreation options and strong cultural base. A place where families want be, or attract more families to move here with diverse opportunities for work and play.   We have to become very competitive with other municipalities so that we can gain back some of our school enrolments and business opportunities. Demographics are working against us. Basically we need to put out the welcome mat, and encourage a sustainable diverse economy for Invermere.

My plan is to listen to issues and concerns that our citizens feel important. Work hard at moving our town forward in a positive balanced direction.  Utilize the talents that we have here to elevate our community with enhanced cultural and recreational amenities.  I will work with the youth directly to talk about their ideas and issues to build a better Invermere and community as a whole. This will be my commitment to the community I love so much. I will lead in a team approach utilizing the strengths we are so fortunate to have.

By Al Miller – for e-KNOW

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