Harley Bentley says he has a different approach to lead Humboldt, where citizens will be engaged and have their voice heard and count in City Hall.

Bentley believes the voice of residents in the city has gone unheard for too long and that change will only happen if voters choose to elect a new Mayor from outside the current council and their agendas. 

During a question and answer session, Bentley answered why he is running for Mayor.

“I have lived in Humboldt for close to 20 years. I believe the best way to effect change is to step up and lead. To give everyone a choice to make their voice and vote heard and count. I have no illusions about the challenges before me. I am willing to face these challenges.”

Bentley was asked where he feels the money will come from to help move Humboldt forward.

"On the doorsteps of Humboldt residents, I have heard that many people do not want a tax increase, that utility bills are rising, and services are scaled back or cut altogether. Working within our means is never easy and as your Mayor I would work diligently to access available grants and subsidies to bring back the services that have been cut, and hold our taxes and utilities increases “

Bentley discussed his views on infrastructure spending.

“It is imperative that Council prioritize repairs to make our community live-able and walkable," he explained."Our standards for this work should be clear. There are several local contractors that would be able to perform this work in a timely manner thereby creating opportunities for employment that will offer a visible success to the citizens. As your Mayor, I will focus on fiscal responsibility in the areas of growth, development, and infrastructure, that puts the needs of the citizens, first."

Bentley was asked what the main issue is for the city.

"The residents that I have spoken to do not feel valued, that their tax dollars are not spent wisely," he said. "As Mayor, I would ensure that the public is engaged to a greater level. I feel it is important that the citizens are informed and have an opportunity to participate and respond."

If elected, Bentley was asked what he would do for the business community.

“Humboldt needs to focus on revitalizing the businesses we already have and at the same time create opportunities for new developments. Creating more employment and inviting new businesses into Humboldt with incentives will benefit our community. By doing this we will be able to generate increased revenue for our City, our hard earned dollars will be spent here and business and services and employment will grow.”

Polls will be open beginning at 9:00am, running until 8:00pm. The city will open three locations for voter convenience at the Uniplex, St. Augustine Hall, and Royal Canadian Legion.