Folker to run again for mayor in Hantsport

BY CHRISTY MARSTERS

The Hants Journal

NovaNewsNow.com

Hantsport’s longest serving mayor has opted to reoffer for the position again.

Mayor Wayne Folker has held his status in Hantsport for the last 17 years and has seen four Windsor mayors and three West Hants wardens go through governance in Hants County during his time as mayor. However, he plans to continue to lead the town for at least another four years if voted back into office after municipal elections in October.

“I didn’t really ever think about not running,” Folker said. “I’ve been at this a long time, but there are many things on the horizon I’d still like to see through to completion.”

This year’s primary campaign goals are to continue to push for a truck route; to make sure the local school remains protected; to see the water utility structure stays sound; and to keep costs cut back rather than increase taxes for citizens within the town, Folker said. “Basically, just to continue on with the happenings of the town as we know it.”

A lot of things over the years have remained the same in Hantsport, but some gradual changes also have to be expected, Folker said. “I think I’ve always been open to change and new ideas and I think perhaps the day I’m not is the day I’ll step back from all this.”

Good reasons to run

Four years is a long-term commitment, but there are good reasons to running, Folker said. “Primarily, it’s the people and the joy of working with these people in my hometown.”

Councillor Don Rockwell says Folker’s honesty, visibility and accessibility within the town makes him so successful. “His heart has really gone into this town.”

With accomplishments such as the water treatment plant, the RCMP moving into Hantsport, the new Town Hall, the HMCC recreational developments and industrial expansions within Hantsport, a lot of progress has been made in the last 17 years, Rockwell said. “I feel Wayne has served the town well. He does a super job; he’s as good as they come.

“He has the time, he takes the time, and he recognizes people,” Rockwell said. “And for that he’s well respected among other mayors and well respected within the community.”

You’d have to have the same devotion and dedication to run against him, Rockwell said.

There is no word of anyone else declaring at this point for the mayor’s seat in Hantsport.