A fresh perspective for Grand Forks

As someone new to municipal politics, Frank Konrad brings new energy to the leadership of Grand Forks, B.C.

Frank Konrad, mayor of Grand Forks, B.C., is holding public office for the first time. — Photo courtesy Frank Konrad

Frank and Barbara Konrad moved to Grand Forks, B.C., in 2007 because they loved the lifestyle available there. Frank, a long-time plumbing contractor who has never held public office before, was successful in his bid for the office of mayor of Grand Forks in the municipal election held on November 15, 2014.

What motivated you to run for office?

It took me a while to get my head around the idea of running for mayor, but I felt quite strongly about several issues and thought I’d like to try to make a difference. There are a lot of new endeavours and new challenges, but we have a good council—four new (members) and two re-elected—and everybody seems to be working really well.

How will your background help you to make a success of being mayor?

I have 35 years of successful business experience. My management skills and people skills will definitely be an asset to this position. I feel that running the (administration of the) city will be much like running a business. There are other factors, of course, but the monetary elements of both need to be properly managed in order to stay afloat.

What’s likely to be the biggest challenge for you in the first six months?

There are many issues, such as our out-of-date infrastructure, our urban deer problem, and of course, our sensitive water meter issue, to name just a few.  It’s going to be an interesting four years. We will obviously have to work around a lot of existing issues, but what’s important is that if we put our personal opinions aside and focus on the vision that we all have as a community, we will be able to achieve great success.

What goal are you looking forward to working on?

We need to address most of our issues, but obviously at a moderate pace. Although the progress might be seemingly slow, and may encompass a large portion of the next four years, with help and input from our citizens to share the goals and visions of the community, we will  see appreciable gains. As mentioned, we’ll certainly be turning our attention to our infrastructure, because of its severity. People here have strong feelings about some of our issues, and hopefully, we can use that to energize us to accomplish some of the things that are needed.

What’s your go-to leisure activity?

My main hobby is woodworking. My grandfather was a cabinetmaker by trade, and I like to build furniture. Barbara and I like to take advantage of the lifestyle available in this beautiful area, and do lots of golfing, fishing, boating, camping, hiking and walking—lots of outdoor activity. Our three Golden Retrievers keep us outdoors a lot.