Harvard Media News reached out to each candidate running for office to ask a set of questions about the office for which they are running. The following is our Q&A with Fort McMurray Ward 1 Candidate, Ty Brandt. All responses are from the candidate or their agent and are unedited by Harvard Media News.
Harvard: Why are you running/what is your motivation?
I’m running because I believe the future of Ward 1 and the entire RMWB depends on proactive, pragmatic leadership and I know I can provide it.
My motivation is rooted in a specific moment that opened my eyes to the need for change at Council. Over a year ago, when the CAO proposed laying off over 400 dedicated municipal workers, that was the moment I got heavily involved. It wasn’t just about the numbers; it was about the impact on our community, our services, and our regional economy.
That single incident spurred me to start attending Council meetings in person, regularly. Frankly, I was extremely disappointed with what I saw. I witnessed tons of infighting, Councillors who seemed to have no idea what they were doing even after years of sitting in that horseshoe, and a fundamental misunderstanding of what their role truly is which is to govern, not grandstand.
I am running to be a strong voice for my constituents, one that delivers tangible results, not just talk. I want to replace the current dysfunction with competence. We deserve a Council that operates with transparency, urgency, and a long term vision for economic stability and job security.
Harvard: What qualifications make you suited for office?
The role of a Councillor requires leadership, fiscal oversight, and a commitment to service, and my background provides all three.
As a Team Lead with the Operating Engineers in Membership Development, my entire focus is on being a relentless advocate for people. I spend my days guiding members on how to improve their lives, whether that’s by connecting them with essential training and job placement or helping them successfully navigate complex benefits and pension packages. This work is directly about resource allocation, effective communication, and delivering real value.
Complementing my professional life is my deep commitment to our community through years of volunteer work with the SPCA and the Food Bank. This service keeps me grounded in the daily struggles of our most vulnerable residents. Finally, my involvement in the Arts in this community gives me a balanced perspective, recognizing that a truly vibrant RMWB requires investing not only in infrastructure but also in the quality of life and cultural fabric that makes our region home.
Harvard: What three issues will you bring before Council that are of key interest to you?
While I have strong policy goals, this really isn’t about me and my interests; it’s about what the people want. My key issues are a blend of improving governance, strengthening our local economy, and enhancing our quality of life in the RMWB. Furthermore, I am open to listen and bring forward motions of citizens that take the time to be active in our democratic process.
If elected, my top three priorities will be:
- Transparency and Diligent Governance: I will commit to ending the current lack of preparation I’ve witnessed. My job will be to actually show up, having meticulously read the agenda and understood what I am voting on, so I can make informed decisions. Furthermore, I firmly believe in open public hearings and complete transparency. I also believe that accountability means accessibility, which is why I’ve put out my phone number to people, have a Facebook page and a website, and will be doing regular meet and greets and will be at as many events as I can to interact with our citizens and hear their concerns. I will continue my current practice of doing my best to simplify complex municipal issues, explaining them to people as I learn them, to rebuild public trust.
- Economic Diversification and Local Procurement: While respecting the New West Partnership Trade Agreement, I am a staunch advocate for a “Local First” Procurement Policy. I believe there are ethical and legal ways to navigate these agreements to ensure a larger share of municipal contracts go to local contractors instead of companies from other parts of Alberta or outside the province. This keeps our tax dollars circulating here, supporting our local families and businesses. Concurrently, I will champion initiatives to improve our region through better options for flights and supporting our local Airport, which is a vital economic and social link.
- Animal Welfare and Community Care: This is an issue close to my heart. I will bring forward policies to strengthen our local animal welfare regulations and ensure the RMWB is doing its part to support organizations like the SPCA and their essential work. A caring community is reflected in how it treats all its residents, including its animals.
Harvard: How familiar are you with the Municipal Government Act (MGA)?
I consider a strong working knowledge of the Municipal Government Act (MGA) to be non negotiable for a Councillor.
I am highly familiar with the MGA; in fact, I have read it multiple times to understand the foundational rules that govern our region, including Council’s scope of authority and the clear separation between the legislative role of Council and the administrative role of the CAO and municipal staff.
However, I also recognize its complexity and the volume of associated regulations. While I have done my due diligence, I look forward to the comprehensive training I will receive once elected to help better understand its intricate details, case law, and the practical application of the Act to our municipality. I am committed to being a Councillor who not only understands the rules but continues to learn
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