A Stronger Spruce Grove: Why I'm Running Again

Four years ago, as I embarked on my first campaign for Spruce Grove City Council, I was driven by a belief in community and a desire to serve. What I didn’t fully anticipate was how that enjoyable experience would not only open my eyes to community service, but also fundamentally crystallize my life’s purpose. In the countless conversations I had with you—my neighbours and fellow residents—my “why” was truly unlocked. The simple, powerful notion of “Service Above Self" is what that gets me up every morning, drives me through the day, and now, compels me to run for Spruce Grove City Council once again.

Since that campaign in 2021, I have dedicated myself to that purpose through a life of public and community service. I’ve been proud to serve as a leader in the Rotary Club of Spruce Grove, taking on roles as Service Projects Director as well as Treasurer for the Rotary Club of Spruce Grove Community Partners Society, which provides crucial family supports like lunches for hungry children in our schools. I’ve had the privilege of coordinating hundreds of volunteers for events like the Grove Rotary Ribfest and have given countless hours to organizations like the Ag Society. This volunteerism isn't just about giving back; it has been a continuous education in the needs and spirit of our city.

This commitment to service has also extended directly to the city itself. I’ve had the distinct honour of serving as the Chair of the Road Safety Advisory Committee, as a director on the Spruce Grove Public Library Board, and as one of the founding members of the new Community Services Advisory Committee. Through these roles, and by attending countless hours of council meetings, I’ve gained a profound, first-hand understanding of how our municipal government functions—from governance to policy to effective collaboration with city administration.

This blend of lived experience is what I believe sets me apart. Professionally and personally, I have honed the skills necessary to succeed as your representative on council. I am a proven leader and a confident decision-maker who understands the value of teamwork and the art of compromise. From financial analysis and budgeting to organizing and coordinating teams, the skills I've acquired in my professional, public and community service roles are directly applicable to the responsibilities of a city councillor.

A key part of being an effective councillor is the ability to analyze complex issues in a critical and unbiased way. I pride myself on this, alongside my deep sense of empathy for the diverse needs of all our residents. Being an effective councillor also means being willing to put in the hard work necessary to truly serve the community—and then some. I've shown that I am more than willing to put in that effort and go above and beyond.

Above all, I am running because I believe we are on the right path, but that this path requires steady, informed leadership. Spruce Grove is growing rapidly, and I am excited by the potential that growth presents. However, this expansion must be managed with a clear vision, ensuring it is sustainable, cost-effective, and always prioritizes the needs of our residents. I have taken the time to thoroughly read and understand our city’s core planning documents, from the Strategic Plan and Municipal Development Plan to the Transportation Master Plan and Community Standards Bylaw. This deep understanding of our city's direction is crucial for shaping our future, and I am ready to apply that knowledge to the challenges ahead.

Four years ago, your support brought us just 65 votes shy of a seat at the table. That incredible show of faith in me has fuelled my continued service to our community and has reinforced my conviction that I am ready to be your voice. I love this city, and I want to help direct its future.

I invite you to visit my website, jefftokar.ca, to learn more and to connect with me. Call, text, email, or send me a message on social media. I’d love to hear your vision for Spruce Grove and learn how I can best serve you and the community. I would be honoured to earn your support once again and to represent you on City Council.