A Ward One council candidate for the Rural Municipality of Hanover says he's been playing with the idea of running for council for the last year.

Travis Doerksen was born and raised in the New Bothwell area. The husband and father of two is a small business owner in that community. Doerksen says he keeps himself busy by coaching tee-ball and soccer as well as being a volunteer firefighter for the New Bothwell Fire Department.

Travis Doerksen (Submitted Photo)But, after October 24th, Doerksen is hoping to take on additional responsibilities in the form of a councillor for Ward One. Doerksen admits this was not a decision he made on his own but says he has received a great deal of support.

Doerksen says it is no secret that some residents of New Bothwell have been experiencing well water issues this year. He says this has raised a lot of concerns in that community.

"That's one of the issues I think that I would like to try and maybe get to the bottom of or receive more information or try and help people in the community understand what's happening," says Doerksen.

He says there could be multiple reasons for the water issues and would like clarification on some of the suggested explanations. Further to that, Doerksen says he wants to make sure there is good communication between the RM of Hanover and the people of New Bothwell and surrounding area concerning these issues.

"I think it's just very important to have good communication and make sure that if there is anything that the RM can do or can help with, I think it's very important for the people of New Bothwell to basically just get down to what exactly is the problem and help everybody understand."

Doerksen says if elected, other priorities for him will include road improvements in New Bothwell and the creation of sidewalks in that community.

When it comes to raising taxes, Doerksen says if it makes sense and people are in favour, then he is not opposed.

"Whether that's putting in sidewalks or resurfacing roads or helping the community centre grow to attract more kids," he says.

He thinks every decision concerning tax dollars need to be made with transparency.

Doerksen says though running for office is new to him, he has spoken with previous councillors in Hanover and other municipalities to find out what it takes to be a good politician.

"I think we all understand that the government does work a little bit slower," he says. "It's all about taking steps and I'm just looking forward to the opportunity to help our community and help our town."

Doerksen will be up against incumbent Councillor Pete Hiebert on the October 24th ballot.