The former owner/publisher of a local newspaper has thrown his hat into the municipal election ring.
Ken Chyz, now the proprietor of a marketing and promotions business in town, announced last week he will run as a candidate for councilor. In a press release, he suggested City government has lost some focus saying he would like to see Council tighten its belt while protecting essential services.
“It’s time for the City to get back to business, for City Council to take the lead and the responsibility to ensure that the city is run efficiently and economically,” he said. “As in any business, you spend what you need to in order to make sure you provide the best services, but you also make sure you spend wisely, and that you keep the operation efficient and budget-conscious.”
Chyz believes his professional and community background will serve voters well.
On the professional side, after graduating from Yorkton Regional High School, Chyz began his career in media sales with the Leader-Post and Yorkton Enterprise. He went on to a 25-year entrepreneurial career as owner of the Yorkton News Review.
During that time, he has served on various boards and committees including City’s Community Parks and Recreation Committee. He is a past chair and a current member of the Yorkton Business Improvement District, has served on the board of the Yorkton Chamber of Commerce (four years), and sits on the Yorkton Co-op board.
He is also a five-time top fundraiser for the Health Foundation Golf Tournament raising tens of thousands of dollars for local health care initiatives.
“Now that my life has slowed down a bit, I want to put my business experience, my experience on city committees, and my community involvement to work for the residents of Yorkton,” Chyz said.
