Mayor Maureen Miller Reflects on Her Final Months in Office

With municipal elections approaching on October 20, Mayor Maureen Miller is preparing to step away from public office after eight years at the helm of the Town of St. Paul. In a candid conversation, Miller reflected on her time as mayor, the upcoming community rodeo, and the challenges and priorities that lie ahead for the next council.

---

Rodeo Week: A Showcase of Community Spirit

St. Paul’s annual rodeo remains one of the most anticipated events of the year, drawing visitors from across the region. Miller highlighted not only the rodeo itself but the many community-driven activities that surround it.

From pancake breakfasts and chili cookoffs to parades and comedy nights, nearly every event is tied to a local non-profit. “If you’re not into rodeo, come out and support all of these events,” Miller said, stressing how small contributions extend the life of community organizations.

The St. Paul Chamber of Commerce and local businesses also play a key role, adding to the festivities and helping to recharge community spirit as summer winds down.

---

Highway Work and Infrastructure Challenges

Miller acknowledged that roadwork around St. Paul has been a source of frustration for residents. Recent chip sealing and resurfacing projects, overseen by the province, have drawn criticism for uneven results.

“The highways are used by our entire region,” she said, noting that while municipalities often receive complaints, the responsibility ultimately falls on the provincial government and its contractors. Miller expressed hope that the latest overlay will improve travel corridors long plagued by patchwork fixes.

---

Priorities for the Next Council

When asked what pressing issues will face St. Paul after her departure, Miller pointed to three main priorities:

▪️ Reducing reliance on residential taxes. The town has spent years updating bylaws and zoning to attract industry, with the goal of easing the financial burden on homeowners.

▪️ Securing provincial support for a new hospital. With the current facility among the oldest in Alberta, a needs assessment has been completed, and Miller urged the next council to keep the pressure on the province.

▪️ Strengthening collaboration. Surrounded by neighbouring municipalities and First Nations, Miller believes continued cooperation is vital to maintaining services, recreation facilities, and long-term growth.

“Collaboration isn’t just with council,” she emphasized. “It’s with our neighbours. We all have to do this together.”

---

Looking Ahead

As she prepares to leave office, Miller was clear that she will not reconsider running again if no candidates come forward. “It’s time for new ideas,” she said. After nearly four decades of community involvement through volunteerism and elected service, Miller is ready for the next chapter.

“I want to have a little more freedom in my schedule,” she shared, adding that she is confident St. Paul is in good hands moving forward.