Ald. Barry Erskine bows out
Kim Guttormson , Calgary Herald
Published: Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Long-time civic politician Barry Erskine, who faced a rocky term in office over the past three years, has decided to retire.
Erskine, who ran unopposed in the last election, said Wednesday he won't be seeking re-election on Oct. 15.
The news caught many city hall watchers off guard, because the five-term has maintained he was running. As early as Monday's council meeting he told media he grew back his trademark mustache because it matched campaign literature from 2004, when he was acclaimed.
His sudden move leaves just one known contender seeking the Ward 11 seat - environmentalist Brian Pincott announced his intentions two months ago - and doesn't leave much time for any others contemplating a run.
Incumbents are considered tougher to beat and wide-open races typically attract more candidates. But with nomination day Monday, it wouldn't leave much time for anyone who isn't already geared up with signs, a campaign team, brochures.
The past term has been stressful for the 61-year-old, who also hosts a radio gardening show.
He came under fire for his handling of a number of important area issues, including the future southwest ring road and the impact widening Glenmore Trail had on neighbouring homes.
And he flip flopped on two crucial council votes - in 2005 he changed his vote so that police were required to increase the amount of revenues raised. Last year, he initially voted against taking the money left when the province reduced the amount of education property tax it collected, but after a break asked to vote again, changed his mind.
The 2004-2007 term also saw Erskine overspend his aldermanic office budget in 2005 by almost $10,000, which he had to repay.
Long-time civic politician Barry Erskine is expected to announce his retirement this afternoon, less than a week before nominations for the Oct. 15 election.
Sources said Erskine is leaving to pursue other opportunities, but the five-term Ward 11 alderman would not confirm why he is holding a press conference.
The news will catch many city hall watchers off guard, because Erskine has maintained he was running. As early as Monday's council meeting he told media he grew back his trademark mustache because it matched campaign literature from 2004, when he was acclaimed.
kguttormson@theherald.canwest.com