Cranbrook’s mayor reflects

Cranbrook’s mayor, Lee Pratt, answered our questions about his first year in office

Lee Pratt was elected to the office of mayor in Cranbrook, B.C., in November 2014. — Marie Milner photo

One year after being elected mayor of Cranbrook, B.C., Lee Pratt said that the biggest challenge he’s faced so far is simply learning the bylaws and the processes of the municipal system. Pratt said he tries to lead by example.

“I like to keep things simple, be honest and call a spade a spade,” he said. “I realize I have to have a little more patience and understanding of the red tape and the bureaucracy. I’m an ambitious, energetic guy who likes to get things done, and I struggle sometimes with the process.”

We asked the mayor a few questions about himself and his experience in office.

What would you say are the two main strengths of your council?

The diversity in their ages gives us a broad perspective on different issues and I really appreciate that they do their due diligence. They base their decisions on more than just their opinion—they have facts to support the opinions and they’re not afraid to express themselves.

What is something you’ve learned about your community this past year?

I was born and raised here, but in the past year I’ve learned that there’s a lot going on in the community that I wasn’t aware of, especially the social programs and volunteer organizations and their accomplishments. I’ve learned a lot by attending functions and networking at events. We’re creatures of habit, and I tend to look at the same things I’ve always looked at, so I’ve had a huge change in my understanding since I started in this position.

What are you most excited about moving ahead with?

For myself, the Cranbrook Kimberley Development Initiative is huge, and I’d love to see some early success in that program. We’ve got a couple of companies that we’ve been talking to that are our targets, and we’re hoping that we can bring one of those to fruition.

As we approach the new year, as an administration we want to make sure we’re still financially responsible. We’re also looking to continue with our roads program.

What five words, for you, convey the elements of a successful person?

Integrity, patience, compassion, open-mindedness and perseverance.

Cranbrook's mayor, Lee Pratt, is an enthusiastic hockey fan. — Photo courtesy Lee Pratt

What’s the most meaningful compliment you’ve received?

In this past year, the compliment that stands out for me was from a guy who told me that he hadn’t voted for me because he thought I was just a lot of talk and the same old promises. But if he had it to do over again now, he said, he would vote for me because he is impressed with what I and the council have accomplished. That meant a lot to me.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

(Laughs) Because of my personality, a number of people have advised me to watch what I say and to think before I talk. I’ve had some good advice from people with experience in local politics. Whether I always take the advice is another thing.

What is some advice you’d like to offer?

Don’t be afraid to fail. A lot of people fail to succeed because they’re afraid of failure. My dad had some words of advice for me. One: Don’t lie. Two: Work hard and do your best—the world doesn’t owe you a job. Three: Have a good credit rating.

What’s the biggest risk you’ve ever taken?

Probably the first business risk for me was when I was newly married and about 24 years old. I stepped out of a secure job with a salary and went on straight commission. After that, I was in commissioned sales all my life.

What’s your favourite quote?

"The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten." — Benjamin Franklin

Is there something you’d like to add?

I have enjoyed this year. It’s pretty much what I expected, and I have to give credit to the councillors and the City staff and department heads. They have been more than co-operative in any way they could be. For anyone that’s looking to get into municipal politics, I think it can be very rewarding.