Meet the Candidates: Russell Meskin

Russell Meskin

Education and professional background

I graduated Wayne State University with a Bachelors Degree in Business and then worked as an auditor and accountant and obtained my Certified Public Accounting Certificate (CPA). After a few years working as a CPA I started my own retail business owning and operating a chain of Hallmark Card and Gift Stores. I retired from the retail business and presently work part time as a business and financial consultant.

How long have you lived in town and where? Do
you live with family?

I have lived in Sylvan Lake for 8 years with my wife Annette, and our daughters and grandchildren also are residents in their own homes in Sylvan Lake.

Explain why you're running for the city council

I am running for re-election to the Sylvan Lake City Council because I feel uniquely qualified. The last 3 years have given me a better understanding of how our city operates and the problems we as citizens are facing. I feel some changes should be made and also there are continuing issues that need to be resolved. I have the experience because of my background in business and also as a current Council Member. I have served on various committees including the Chairman of the Memorial Day Ceremonies for the past two years. I feel I better understand and can help ensure the financial stability, maintain efficient and productive city services, a continued safe environment, and the relaxed beautiful community we can all be proud of.

What do you think are the biggest issues facing the city? How
would you handle them? 

The biggest issues facing Sylvan Lake is to have a balanced and transparent budget that meets the needs of the citizens in providing and maintaining the current infrastructure and the best services possible. The city and council must be clear and responsible on how the funds of the recently passed 5 mill increase are spent on services and capitol improvements. Some of the capitol improvements necessary to ensure safety and security are replacement of sea walls where needed,  maintaining and replacing our streets where necessary, repairing and adding additional city and parking lot lights, and upgrading and repairing water mains. There are other issues facing our city but I feel these are the most pressing issues that need to be addressed at this time.