Prince Albert mayoral candidate Bill Powalinsky. (Submitted photo)
Mayoral candidate

Mayoral candidate Bill Powalinsky pledges transparent leadership, community-driven growth, and proven expertise for Prince Albert

Nov 5, 2024 | 1:08 PM

Bill Powalinsky, a committed leader with decades of experience in business, government, and community service, has launched his campaign for Mayor of Prince Albert, promising to bring balanced and community-focused leadership to City Hall. With a platform rooted in transparency, accountability, and a deep respect for Prince Albert’s unique community values, Powalinsky is ready to address pressing issues like crime prevention, homelessness, and trust in city government. Known for his hands-on approach and a legacy of dedication to civic and social causes, Powalinsky aims to foster an environment where every resident feels valued, safe, and included as Prince Albert moves into a promising new chapter.

“My goal is to bring responsible leadership to Prince Albert,” Powalinsky states. “Through balanced decision-making, I can support and foster a prosperous, safe, inclusive, and vibrant future for our community.”

A Legacy of Community Commitment and Leadership

Powalinsky’s dedication to Prince Albert is deeply personal, shaped by experiences of raising his children and grandchildren here. Powalinsky’s values stem from a lifelong commitment to inclusivity and understanding. His passion for community development began early, influenced by growing up with his twin sister, who has a profound intellectual disability. This experience has grounded his approach to service and formed his foundation in advocacy for inclusion on a personal and professional level. It has developed his drive and dedication to compassionate, proactive, and practical community leadership.

Since moving to Prince Albert in 1984, Powalinsky has left a mark through service with numerous local organizations. He was a founding board member of S.H.A.R.E. and held roles such as Vice-President of the Canadian Mental Health Association’s local branch, board member of the PA Association for Community Living, board member of Riverbank Developments, and Chair of the Prince Albert Chamber of Commerce. He also serves as President of the Prince Albert and Area Community Foundation and member of the steering committee of the Community Networking Coalition. His involvement in these and many other committees has played a critical role in shaping Prince Albert’s community landscape.

Powalinsky brings extensive governmental experience, including 24 years with the federal government in employment, unemployment insurance, and community development roles. With experience with Saskatchewan Housing as a housing project officer, Keewatin Community College as Public Relations Officer, and the Prince Albert Health Region in Labor Relations, Powalinsky has rounded out his career. In addition, he has a background in small business having managed a family business, managed a private vocational school, and provided service as a private consultant. A career milestone for Powalinsky was leading the Saskatchewan Association for Community Living (now known as Inclusion Saskatchewan) and the Saskatchewan Institute for Community Living as Executive Director. Powalinsky also has experience collaborating with Indigenous leaders, including leading the residential school Common Experience Payment application process across northern Saskatchewan with the Prince Albert Grand Council and FSIN. For the past 9 years, Powalinsky has served the community as the CEO of the Prince Albert Community Service Centre.

(Submitted photo)

Recognizing the Need for Fresh Solutions

In response to the concerns of Prince Albert residents, Powalinsky is focusing his campaign on addressing three pressing issues: crime prevention, homelessness, and transparency in municipal governance.

“People want to feel safe, they want transparency, and they want a city that works for everyone,” Powalinsky explains. He recognizes the need for collaboration and strategic alliances among civil services, government partners, and community stakeholders – advocating for a balanced perspective that considers both economic development and social challenges. “We need to support the business community, especially the small business sector, however we need to show progress in social development in order to make the business environment attractive” he states.

Crime: Prioritizing Safety Through Community Collaboration

Addressing crime in Prince Albert is a top priority for Powalinsky, who commits to a proactive approach through close collaboration with law enforcement, all levels of government, and community organizations. By ensuring resources are utilized efficiently and that the police force is fully supported, his goal is to see the implementation of innovative, best-practice solutions in community safety. “Our community deserves to feel secure, whether for our children, elders, or businesses. Together, we can make a meaningful impact on our city’s future,” Powalinsky says.

Homelessness: A Comprehensive, Action-Oriented Approach

Powalinsky envisions addressing homelessness beyond shelters, advocating for a range of health, legal, and community services to support those experiencing homelessness. His leadership will focus on building effective partnerships and closing service gaps through new, measurable approaches in coordination with all levels of government. “We’ve studied the issues long enough; it’s time for action,” Powalinsky asserts, emphasizing a results-driven focus on providing needed resources and evaluating impact.

Renewing Trust: A Transparent, Citizen-Centered Leadership

Powalinsky is dedicated to fostering a culture in City Hall that values Prince Albert’s citizens as its core purpose and reason for why City Hall exists. “As well, we need to recognize that our staff are our most important asset, and our key to delivering quality service” he states. Powalinsky pledges to prioritize transparency, openness, and accountability, ensuring that staff, management, and council work collaboratively to fulfill the city’s mission. Powalinsky is committed to consulting stakeholders and affected groups before projects begin, believing that an approachable, responsive city leadership is key. “Our residents deserve to be heard,” he affirms, promising open, honest communication to rebuild trust in Prince Albert’s leadership.

Powalinsky: The Right Person for the Job

Powalinsky’s dedication, proven leadership, and extensive experience make him the best candidate for the future of our community. His vision for Prince Albert centers on responsible, people-first leadership, ensuring the community’s values are at the forefront of every decision.

“I am ready to serve, listen, and lead Prince Albert with the balanced approach our city needs,” Powalinsky concludes. “Together, we can honor our history while driving progress. On November 13th, make your voice heard—exercise your democratic right and vote.”

**This content was submitted to paNOW’s commercial content division.

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