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 Mayoral Candidate, Rene Wells. 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 the last 12 years have felt like a “lost decade” – one marked by frivolous spending, infighting, and weak long-term preparedness. We can’t afford another. My motivation is to restore a professional, accountable tone at council -showing up prepared, listening, and working collaboratively with colleagues and administration.
I want residents across every neighbourhood and rural community to feel confident they have responsive leadership focused on practical outcomes: safety, reliable services, and a resilient future for Wood Buffalo.
Harvard: What qualifications make you suited for office?
I’ve lived and worked here since 2007. As an Inspector with the Wood Buffalo RCMP Detachment and later the municipality’s Director of Emergency Management, I led teams, coordinated complex files, and worked closely with municipal administration and community partners.
Beyond my professional background, I’ve been an active volunteer and board member with several local organizations, including five municipal boards and committees – three of which I continue to serve on today. These experiences, particularly my time as a member of the Municipality’s Subdivision Development and Appeal Board, reinforced the importance of preparation, clear communication, and transparency in decision-making.
I bring a public-safety mindset, strong governance and operations experience, and a collaborative approach grounded in accountability and openness.
Harvard: What three issues will you bring before Council that are of key interest to you?
- Public safety & resilience: Strengthen current FireSmart and flood-mitigation work and protect critical municipal infrastructure so people feel safe and services are reliable.
- Responsible, professional governance: Reset the tone at council, improve accountability and transparency, and ensure disciplined budgeting focused on needs – not “nice-to-haves.”
- Enhanced Regional Transportation Network & municipal services: Plan for a more efficient transportation network that supports residents, employers, and future growth, and improved municipal services, including road maintenance – especially during winter months.
Harvard: How familiar are you with the Municipal Government Act?
Very. My municipal leadership experience required working within the MGA’s framework – especially the distinct roles of council (policy, budget, oversight) and administration (operations and implementation). During my time with the RMWB, I led the process of developing new legislation to replace the Emergency Management Agency Bylaw in 2009 and the 2003 Taxi Bylaw, ultimately replaced by the Vehicle for Hire Bylaw in 2013.
Both bylaws had to align with multiple pieces of provincial legislation, including the MGA. They involved extensive research, drafting, and legal review to ensure compliance. The Vehicle for Hire Bylaw, in particular, required broad public consultation under the MGA, which I coordinated with municipal departments, industry representatives, and community stakeholders. These experiences gave me a working understanding of how the MGA shapes local governance, bylaw authority, and public accountability.
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