FINANCIAL STEWARDSHIP

The first priority is restoring confidence in our city's finances—a focus I’ve consistently championed over the past four years, both during budget discussions and through my work on the audit committee. Citizens and Council must be able to rely on accurate financial information, understand our commitments and trust that expenses are managed responsibly. That trust has been eroded. The recently released Financial Roadmap offered a clear and sobering assessment of our financial health, highlighting the need for significant improvements in reporting, policy and capital planning. This work must continue, with a key measurable goal being the restoration of our Operating Reserve to a minimum of $20 million by the end of the next Council term.

ECONOMIC VITALITY

Supporting economic growth is essential as Red Deer continues to recover from years of lagging behind other centres in the province. While recent developments—like the hospital expansion, Capstone construction and new housing projects—signal progress, maintaining this momentum is key to creating jobs and keeping life affordable for families. The Economic Ad Hoc Committee’s recommendation to establish an independent body to promote Red Deer aligns with my view that this work is best done outside of the bureaucratic processes of government. Success should be measured by employment participation, job growth outpacing population growth, increased assessment from new construction, and and new and expanded business ventures.

TURNING THE TIDE ON SOCIAL DISRUPTION

Addressing social disruption is the most challenging of the three priorities, yet it has a direct impact on both economic growth and community confidence. Issues such as encampments, addiction, crime and homelessness diminish quality of life and hinder progress. While the Province holds jurisdiction, the City has a vital role in advocacy—ensuring Red Deer’s needs are heard and addressed. Alberta’s shift to a recovery model and the Compassionate Intervention initiative offer hope, but success will depend on effective collaboration and sustained effort. Supporting organizations like the new Homeless Foundation for Red Deer Region and the Red Deer Native Friendship Centre’s housing project is essential. Progress will be measured by a decline in Point-in-Time Count numbers, indicating real movement towards meaningful support, housing and enforcement.

Defining Characteristics

Focused, No-nonsense, with a dry sense of humor.
Understands balance sheets, revenue and expense statements, and finance.
Outcome and results driven
Wisdom from years of accumulated experience in banking, business, not-for-profits, and government provincially and municipally.
Level-headed and even keeled.
Upfront, no pretense.

Practical Life Philosophy

Honour your God
Show up, work hard
Live at peace with your neighbors
Live within your means.
You’ll get dedicated work from me, without fanfare and virtue signaling.
My decisions will reflect honest work and collaboration.

Political Philosophy

I hold a conservative outlook on my political thinking. For me that means primarily that each person should manage their own affairs with purpose and integrity, without reliance on the Government.
The economy is best served when private business is allowed to flourish without overly burdensome regulations.

Leading with Purpose. Focused on Red Deer.

Leading with purpose means staying focused on clear, measurable outcomes. I’ve identified three key areas that remain top of mind for Red Deer, aligning with the priorities outlined by City Council in February 2025 for the City Manager. These priorities continue to be relevant, and will guide my approach to purposeful and results-driven leadership.

VICTOR DOERKSEN

FOR RED DEER MAYOR

ABOUT ME

I’m a lifelong Albertan — born in Bassano and raised in Linden — where exploring the nearby coulees first sparked my love for hiking and the outdoors. These days, you’ll often find my wife Doris and me walking or biking the trails around Red Deer, chatting about our day, praying with our eyes open and enjoying the simple rhythm of life together.

We’ve had the joy of raising four children and now have the added delight of grandchildren who keep us laughing and learning. Family has always been at the heart of what matters most to us.

I had the honour of serving as MLA for Red Deer South for nearly 15 years, including five as Minister of Innovation and Science. I now serve on City Council, bringing years of experience from both the private and public sectors. As a professional accountant (FCPA, FCGA) with a background in banking and executive leadership, I care deeply about responsible finances and strong local leadership.

Over the past 35-plus years, I’ve also stayed involved in community life through leadership roles with organisations like Central Alberta Refugee Effort, Etana Supports Society, Red Deer Ten Thousand Villages and the Red Deer Hospice Society.

When I’m not working, I love a good hike, tuning up my bike, doing the crossword on our deck and spending time with family — especially if there’s pumpkin pie or raisin tarts involved.

CONTACT VICTOR

FOCUSED ON
RED DEER

"Every decision is rooted in what’s best for Red Deer."

Being Focused on Red Deer means putting our community at the centre of every decision, every policy and every priority. This is the city we’ve chosen to live in, and we must ensure it remains a strong, vibrant and affordable place to call home. Restoring financial stability, fuelling economic growth and addressing social disruption are essential to building a more resilient Red Deer. I know that not every decision will please everyone—but each one will be made with the long-term well-being of our city in mind.

Staying focused also means respecting the core responsibilities of municipal government. We must avoid “mission drift” and concentrate on delivering in the areas that matter most to citizens: maintaining reliable infrastructure, keeping taxes fair and transparent, ensuring public safety, guiding thoughtful development and investing in recreational spaces that build community. Collaboration with Red Deer County and other Central Alberta municipalities will also remain a priority, as regional partnerships strengthen our economy and expand opportunity for everyone in the region.