ROB MURRAY: I’m speaking with Kaylee Ram, who’s running for election for Banff Council. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your related experience for the job.

KAYLEE RAM: I am a born and raised Banffite. My dad also went to the high school in Banff. My family started Snowtips-Bactrax in 1979. Then I decided to go off to university and I studied sociology and psychology at the University of Alberta. I came back and have since taken over the business. When I moved back, there were different ways that I was just feeling I needed to get pulled into getting more involved in the community. I started on some advisory groups with Banff-Lake Louise Tourism. From there, I’m now one of the co vice-chairs on the Hospital Board here in Banff. When the Police Advisory Committee was formed I joined that, which has been super exciting. Mike Buxton-Carr has been a great influence in Banff and I know he wants to get those partnerships going, so it’s been super exciting to see that flourish. I’ve also been on the Community Grants Committee with the Town of Banff and involved in various other facets like Canmore Minor Hockey and the Banff Hockey Academy when it was in town.

RM: Why in 2021 did you say, hey, I’m going to put my name on the ballot?

KR: The timing just felt right. What kind of solidified it for me was being involved heavily on the Bear Street project. I heard from quite a few people regarding trying to get our voice heard about how we were feeling and where the project was going. When I presented to council in March for the review, the feedback that I received was phenomenal. It just started to solidify that I think I could do this. Honestly, it’s my love for the community and just feeling confident that I have a really good support system.

RM: Talk a little bit about one of your top or your top issue that you’re really passionate about and maybe some ideas around it?

KR: I am very passionate about community. There’s this common theme whenever you talk to people. Yes, we are an international destination, and the pandemic showcased that we do require tourism in order to survive. However, I also think that it reminded us that we need to be rooted to one another within our community in times of crisis. I know the feeling of some decisions is residents’ opinions are typically overlooked. For example, Banff Avenue for pedestrianization. I think if that were to continue we’d need to look at the financial costs and analysis of whether or not it’s worth it. Also, we don’t have tour buses here yet, and I think there needs to be thorough surveying of neighbouring streets along with feedback from all community members and whether or not they see it as a success.

RM: Looking back on the last four years, what’s something you’d feel this past Council did a good job tackling, and conversely, what’s something you feel they could have done a better job on?

KR: Council has taken this pandemic so seriously. Your international destination is just all of a sudden shut, so I definitely applaud them for that. They did it very, very well. As for ways that they could improve – I think there should be a more thorough process regarding communication, maybe more specifically for different projects. Bear Street is one that I will always go back to just from personal experience. Even yesterday, someone made a comment to me that they had no idea that cars were allowed on Bear Street. That was a huge point of confusion for a lot of people.

RM: If elected, how would you stay engaged with the people of the community?

KR: I’m super accessible. With the business I’m right on Bear Street, the most local street. You’ll see me working there. I also walk my dog all the time. I am always open for feedback. I know that being a 27-year-old my age may be questioned, whether I have the experience or not, but I’m the first to admit that I’m going to have a lot to learn. I’m super excited to get comfortable being uncomfortable, and also being open to new opinions and feedback. That’s actually the most exciting part of this whole experience so far is that I’m going to meet so many different people that I haven’t met and get to hear different experiences, stories, and feedback about how the community is defined by them. Community looks differently for each person. Being open and honest, and taking people up on going for coffee or a walk or anything like that, I’m genuinely always happy to do.

RM: Other than the stuff we discussed already, is there another issue or a part of your platform you’d like to talk about?

KR: All-age inclusive housing has been a great initiative, and affordable living. Environment, too. We’re so fortunate that we get to live in a UNESCO World Heritage Site and we need to ensure that we protect it.

RM: Where can people find out more information about you?

KR: I have an Instagram account. I have a Facebook account. I’ll be posting bits about my platform and different opportunities in which people can connect. They can shoot me an email and we can meet up, go for a coffee or a walk, whatever they’re comfortable with. I will be door knocking. I’m double vaccinated, the team of volunteers with me will be as well. Or, they can stop by the shop and ask me there.

RM: Why should people vote for you in the upcoming municipal election?

KR: I’m fortunate enough that I am born and raised in Banff. My family has been here for over 40 years. I know the old Banff from when I grew up or hearing stories from my dad, and obviously as a business owner who works on floor I have an understanding, too, about what Banff is right now. My business has benefited from the tourism sector, so I completely understand that is something that we need to bring back. The majority of my staff are foreign workers as well from Australia, England, and wherever, so I also get to hear the problems that occur in their lives as well and I’m very sympathetic to that. I’m also First Nations. My grandma is an Elder in B.C., so I also have a great appreciation for the Truth and Reconciliation movement that’s going on and providing maybe more insight into that for people who aren’t so sure. I genuinely love this community; my heart just swells for it. I would be honored if I could help in making this town better for everyone.

Filed under: Banff, Municipal Election