Robert Snow Running For Mayor With Vision Of Service, Growth, And Transparency

Mayoral Candidate Robert Snow. Photo submitted

Editors note - to see the article please pick up a copy of the Vermilion Voice. Here is the full interview with responses without editing

Interview Questions for Rob Snow — Mayoral Candidate, Town of Vermilion

Prepared by Lorna Hamilton,

Vermilion Voice

1.    Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your connection to Vermilion?

My connection to Vermilion runs deep and is rooted in service. I spent over 21 years working as a paramedic in our community. Through that role, I had the privilege of building strong relationships with residents and working alongside the incredible healthcare professionals who serve Vermilion. It was during those years, walking with people through both their joys and heartaches, that I truly came to understand the strength, compassion, and resilience of this community.

After retiring from paramedicine in 2021, I began a new chapter as CEO of Focus Society for Support Services, a local non-profit that supports people with diverse needs. It quickly became clear just how many amazing individuals in our town needed someone to speak up for them. That same year, I was also elected to the Town Council, where I’ve spent the past four years working to bring the concerns of our residents forward, both locally and to the provincial level.

My connection to Vermilion is this: I am continually humbled by the opportunities I’ve had to serve. I see and experience the strength of this community every day. Vermilion is my home. It’s a place filled with friends, and a place I care deeply about. I want to continue serving the people who make it so special.

2.    What inspired you to run for Mayor at this time?

This is a great question, and one that holds deep meaning for me. Over the past four years as a Town Councillor, I’ve had the privilege of meeting one-on-one with our MLA and several provincial ministers to discuss issues that matter to Vermilion. These conversations have touched on healthcare, infrastructure needs, economic development, the pressures on municipal taxpayers, our local airport, and more. I’m proud of the work that’s come from those discussions, but I’ve also come to recognize that the voice of a mayor often carries more weight, particularly when advocating to higher levels of government.

That’s a key reason I chose not to seek re-election as a councillor, but instead to run for mayor. I’m not someone who chases titles or accolades; my values are centered on meeting needs and achieving meaningful outcomes. From my experience, I believe I can better support Vermilion by stepping into a stronger leadership role that amplifies our message and helps move local priorities forward. The mayor’s office offers that platform.

For those who know me, they know I don’t seek recognition, I stand for what I believe in, and I fight for what’s right. If elected as mayor, I’ll continue to approach the role the same way I’ve approached every position of service, that is, advocating for others and working toward stronger support and better outcomes.

3.    How has your experience as a Town Councillor prepared you for this next step?

Serving as a Town Councillor over the past four years has given me a strong foundation for the role of mayor. I’ve had the opportunity to engage directly with different levels of government, provincial ministers, our MLA, and regional leaders, on issues that matter to Vermilion. These conversations have reinforced the importance of strong, informed advocacy, and I’ve seen firsthand how persistence and preparation can lead to real progress.

In addition to those external relationships, my time on council has deepened my understanding of municipal governance, budgeting, and long-term planning. I’ve gained valuable insight into how decisions are made, how funding is allocated, and how to balance the responsibilities we carry as a municipality with the expectations of our residents.

Most importantly, I’ve developed a clearer sense of what our community truly needs and what people expect from their elected officials. They want someone who listens, who is accountable, who is transparent, and who ensures that the priorities of the community are reflected in the decisions we make. That’s exactly how I’ve approached my role on council, and it’s the same approach I will bring to the mayor’s office if given the opportunity to serve in that capacity.

4.    What is your vision for Vermilion over the next four years?

My vision for Vermilion is rooted in sustainable growth, strategic planning, and stronger partnerships. I believe growth is essential if our community is to remain vibrant and sustainable, but growth without planning creates instability. We need to ensure Vermilion is not just responding to today’s challenges but preparing for tomorrow’s needs as well.

Over the next four years, I want to see our town develop achievable, sustainable plans that balance both present and future demands. That includes asking difficult but necessary questions: If we need more housing, who pays for the infrastructure to support it? Today, the reality is that much of the cost of growth will fall to future residents because the town is unable to fund it. That means we’ll likely need to take on debt to move forward, and if we do, we must do it responsibly, with a clear plan for return on investment and long-term stability.

We must also work more closely with our regional partners and advocate consistently to the provincial and federal governments. Many of the challenges we face, such as healthcare access, cost-sharing for infrastructure, and economic development, require collaboration and persistence beyond the municipal level. Our voice must be steady, informed, and united with other rural communities.

Finally, we must strengthen transparency and build stronger partnerships right here at home, with residents, businesses, and community groups. That means clearer communication, more inclusive decision-making, and a commitment to listening. Vermilion’s future will be shaped by the choices we make together, and I believe those choices must be rooted in planning, collaboration, and trust.

5.    What leadership qualities do you bring to the role of Mayor?

I bring a leadership style that is rooted in service, integrity, and accountability. Serving 21 years as a paramedic taught me how to stay calm under pressure, make clear decisions in challenging moments, and prioritize the needs of others. As the CEO of a non-profit and as a sitting councillor, I’ve learned how to lead with both compassion and clarity, listening to those around me, building strong relationships, and navigating complex systems to get results.

I’m not interested in a position for the sake of power. I lead by focusing on outcomes, not optics. I believe in setting clear goals, being honest about challenges, and always keeping the people I serve at the center of my decisions. I’m not afraid to ask tough questions or to challenge the status quo if it means doing what’s right for Vermilion.

I also value collaboration. No one leads a community alone; it takes strong partnerships with residents, council, administration, other municipalities, and higher levels of government. As mayor, I will continue to be accessible, transparent, and grounded in the belief that leadership is about serving others, not being served.

6.    How do you plan to build trust and transparency between Town Council and the residents?

Trust comes from communication that is consistent, accessible, and honest. I’ve heard from many residents who want to feel more connected to what’s happening at Town Hall. I believe we can do better.

If elected mayor, I’d support tools like a “Mayor’s Column” in the local paper, on the website, and on social media, which would offer simple updates about what the town and council are doing. I’d also like to see short verbal updates at the start of each council meeting, and occasional “Coffee with the Mayor” chats to give residents a relaxed way to ask questions or share concerns.

I’ll continue to be responsive, approachable, and open, as I always have been. Of course, any changes would need the council’s support, but by leading with clarity and consistency, we can strengthen trust and transparency in how our town is governed.

7.    How do you plan to ensure transparency in decision-making and financial management?

Transparency is a cornerstone of good governance, and I am committed to being as open and clear as possible about how decisions are made and how public funds are managed. This means providing residents with straightforward updates on budgets, expenditures, and council priorities in ways that are accessible and easy to understand.

At the same time, it’s important to recognize that there are legal and contractual obligations, such as non-disclosure agreements, that limit what council can share publicly. While these situations are the exception, they are necessary to protect the town’s interests and respect privacy agreements.

Within those boundaries, I will advocate for timely financial reporting, clear communication, and adherence to sound governance principles. By balancing openness with legal responsibilities, we can maintain public trust while responsibly managing the community’s resources.

8.    Residents are concerned about potential tax increases tied to town improvements. What is your stance on balancing necessary investment with affordability for taxpayers?

Since I announced my campaign for mayor, many people have asked if I plan to lower taxes. The answer isn’t as simple as yes or no. Anyone who’s worked through a municipal budget understands the challenge of balancing the needs of a community with the cost of delivering those services.

What I tell people is this: as mayor, I would work to ensure the Town explores every possible option, government grants, partnerships, and economic development, to help offset the cost of building a sustainable future. Promoting Vermilion to potential investors and advocating for fair provincial and federal support are key parts of that role.

We also need stronger future planning. Setting aside funds today for tomorrow’s needs helps reduce the reliance on tax increases or borrowing when major investments come up. It’s not about avoiding all debt or tax changes, it’s about making deliberate, informed choices that don’t overburden today’s residents or leave tomorrow's residents with yesterday’s bills.

When there is a need to increase taxes, the reasoning should be carefully explained and discussed with the community, ensuring people understand the need and how it impacts them.

9.    Do you support the idea of establishing dedicated reserve funds for critical infrastructure projects to avoid sudden tax spikes? The survey that is currently available for residents seems to suggest that every improvement needed in the town is requiring tax hikes, do you feel the Town needs to revisit the budget to see when spending can be cut?

Like any household or business, the Town should also set money aside for future needs. Balanced planning helps limit excessive tax hikes when infrastructure work is required. That balance involves dedicated reserves, advocating for funding opportunities from other levels of government, encouraging stakeholder investment and economic growth, and, when appropriate, the responsible use of debentures. It’s not about relying on one approach; it’s about using all the tools available to support long-term stability without placing unfair pressure on taxpayers today or in the future.

At the same time, a forward-looking budget process means regularly reviewing priorities, seeking efficiencies, and ensuring every dollar is well spent. As mayor, I would bring a mindset focused on strong planning and a long-term perspective, because planning well today reduces the risk of burdening future taxpayers or leaving critical needs unmet.

10.  How would you prioritize spending, and where do you believe the town can find efficiencies?

If elected mayor, my role would be to work with council and administration to set clear priorities based on the community’s needs and values. Prioritizing spending means focusing on the services and infrastructure that matter most to residents, ensuring public safety, maintaining essential infrastructure, and supporting sustainable growth.

Finding efficiencies is an ongoing process that involves collaboration with administrative staff who manage day-to-day operations. Council’s role includes encouraging regular reviews of programs and services, promoting innovative solutions, and ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly.

Good governance is about balance, setting strategic priorities, asking the right questions, and maintaining accountability to the community, while recognizing the expertise of administration in identifying operational efficiencies.

11.  The Vermilion airport runway is in need of replacement or at least resurfacing, particularly because it serves medivac needs. What are your proposed solutions for addressing this high-cost infrastructure issue besides raising resident taxes?

As I’ve previously mentioned, I believe the mayor’s role, whether addressing the airport, sewer infrastructure, or any other critical community need, is to fully understand the issue and its impact on Vermilion. Additionally, the mayor should advocate for provincial and federal government funding to ensure safe, reliable airport operations, giventheimportant services provided, such as medivac services.

Furthermore, the mayor's role is to work closely with the administration to attract investment opportunities that support our community’s growth and infrastructure needs. Balanced financial planning remains key to managing these important facilities without placing undue burden on local taxpayers.

12.  Are you open to exploring out-of-the-box solutions such as public-private partnerships, grant funding, or regional collaboration to fund projects like the airport or other key infrastructure?

Yes, I’m open to pursuing innovative funding approaches like new partnerships, grant programs, and regional cooperation for important projects such as the airport. Collaboration between Vermilion and surrounding communities is a practical strategy to increase our impact while keeping financial pressures low. When we align efforts with nearby municipalities, we can more effectively secure resources, attract investment, and address shared challenges.

Many of the issues we face, like infrastructure needs, housing, and economic growth, extend beyond municipal boundaries. By working together, we can achieve outcomes that benefit the entire region while safeguarding Vermilion’s interests.

Building these partnerships takes trust, clear communication, and fairness, and I’m committed to fostering cooperative relationships that support both our town and the broader area.

13.  How will you advocate for provincial or federal support to help cover essential services in small towns like Vermilion?

I advocate by being present, by showing up, building relationships, and having the tough but necessary conversations with our provincial and federal counterparts. One thing I’ve learned through my work with FOCUS is that higher levels of government hear from countless municipalities and organizations, all asking for help; however, these groups offer few solutions to meet their need. What stands out is when we bring forward ideas rooted in local realities and aimed at practical, achievable outcomes.

Whether it’s healthcare, emergency services, or infrastructure, I believe the role of a mayor is to clearly communicate our community’s needs and show how collaborative solutions can benefit not just Vermilion but the wider region. Drawing on my background in healthcare and my role at FOCUS, we didn’t just advocate for ambulances to stay longer in town; we developed a workable proposal to make it happen, then sought the support to carry it out. Advocacy is more than asking; it’s about leading with solutions that make it easier for others to say yes.

14.  What are your plans to attract new businesses or industries to Vermilion?

There are two key directions I believe we need to take. First, we must engage with our existing business community. Local owners, the Chamber of Commerce, and partners like Community Futures have deep insight into what it takes to succeed here. By bringing them into the conversation, we can better understand what’s working, what’s not, and where the real opportunities lie. Economic development isn’t just about bringing in something new; it’s also about helping our current businesses grow and thrive.

Second, we need to build strong external partnerships. Organizations like Alberta HUB and the Vermilion River Regional Alliance can help us identify emerging opportunities and industry gaps across the region. Aligning with these groups and working with local developers to ensure we have land and infrastructure ready will help us attract investment that matches our needs.

A comprehensive approach to economic development includes more than just business attraction. It involves housing, healthcare, and quality of life, all the pieces that make Vermilion a great place to live and work. By creating a clear, coordinated plan, we can demonstrate that Vermilion is open for business and prepared for smart, sustainable growth.

15.  How can the Town better support local businesses and encourage economic resilience?

As I mentioned in the previous question, we need to work closely with local businesses, the Chamber of Commerce, and organizations like Community Futures to better understand what’s working, where the challenges lie, and how we can help. It starts with listening, then working together on practical, forward-looking solutions.

In my current role as a Town Councillor, I’ve served on committees such as the Vermilion River Regional Alliance and the Chamber of Commerce. Those experiences have reinforced the importance of building strong local and regional partnerships to support a healthy business environment.

Supporting local businesses isn’t just about keeping them open; it’s about helping them grow, adapt, and build resilience for the long term. That includes making sure our processes are efficient, infrastructure is planned for growth, and businesses know they have a voice at the table. We can also support innovation and diversification by making it easier for entrepreneurs and startups to access local support and navigate municipal processes.

By fostering a business-friendly environment that values collaboration and adaptability, Vermilion can build economic resilience that benefits our entire community.

16.  What specific steps would you take to ensure youth, families, and seniors feel supported and included in Vermilion’s growth?

One way to ensure Vermilion’s growth includes youth, families, and seniors is to prioritize accessible services and programs that connect and support these groups. Another may include investing in affordable and adaptable housing options or offering enhanced mobility for all residents. It’s important to work closely with community organizations, such as childcare providers and senior support groups, to understand their needs and collaborate on solutions.

While decisions at council are made collectively, I will bring my experience advocating for accessibility through initiatives like the Transit Circuit, supporting inclusion with Focus Society, and representing council on boards such as the Vermilion and District Housing Foundation and Parks and Recreation Committee to every discussion so that all perspectives are looked at before decisions are made.

17.  How do you plan to ensure ongoing dialogue with residents throughout your term, not just during election season?

I believe communication is vital, and transparency is key to building trust with our community. To support ongoing dialogue, I intend to put forward ideas to council that encourage regular, clear updates, such as a Mayor’s Column in the local paper and on online platforms, to keep residents informed about council activities and decisions.

I would also support providing meeting summaries to help people understand what’s happening at Town Hall, along with informal opportunities like “Coffee with the Mayor” sessions where residents can engage directly in a relaxed setting.Most importantly, I value accessibility and would encourage council to prioritize timely responses to residents’ questions and concerns. These ideas aim to foster an ongoing two-way conversation with our community throughout the entire term.

18.  How will you measure the success of your leadership if elected?

While meeting the targets set out in the town’s strategic plan is an important measure of success, I believe leadership goes beyond numbers and checklists. True success comes from earning and maintaining the community’s confidence, making sure residents feel supported and heard.

I will consider my leadership effective if the concerns and priorities shared by Vermilion’s residents are addressed thoughtfully and respectfully. If people feel their voices matter and see progress on the issues they care about, then I’ll know we’re moving in the right direction.

19.  What sets you apart from other potential candidates in this race?

As a current town councillor, paramedic, CEO, and active member on several community committees, I bring a wide range of experience and a clear understanding of Vermilion’s strengths and challenges. What drives me is a genuine commitment to serve with integrity and to listen carefully to the people I represent.

If elected mayor, I will prioritize clear, honest, and transparent communication, ensuring residents receive timely updates on town activities and how decisions affect them. I believe leadership means bringing people together, fostering collaboration, and focusing on practical solutions that reflect the community’s needs and values.

It is because of these core values, integrity, transparency, and collaboration, combined with a clear and optimistic vision for Vermilion’s potential, that I believe I am well-positioned to succeed in this role. I am committed to working alongside residents, businesses, governments and partners to help our community thrive now and into the future.

20.  What message would you like to share with Vermilion residents as they consider their vote?

When you’re choosing who to vote for, it’s not just about what they say they’ll do. What really matters is having someone you can trust, someone who listens, communicates openly and honestly with transparency, and truly cares about Vermilion and the people who live here.