Hello!

I am Robert Dickinson (most people call me Rob). I am running for City Councillor for Ward 11 in the upcoming October 2017 municipal election. I am entering politics to foster meaningful partnerships between communities, business and the City, to preserve and extend our social and economic prosperity through sound decision-making. I look forward to the opportunity to hopefully serve as your Councillor.

Professionally, I have extensive private and public sector experience. I am also very active in the community, through volunteering and also taking part in the many events and programs Calgary has to offer.

I began my career as an entrepreneur and business owner. I currently co-own a successful business in Ward 11, the Good Earth Cafe in Glenmore Landing. Over 10 years of running a small business in Calgary has shown me the value of hard work and community support, as well the challenges and opportunities many local companies in Calgary are facing. Small business is critical to the overall health of the Calgary economy and I believe we need to continue to find innovative ways to help entrepreneurs succeed.

From 2011 to 2015, I worked as a Community and Communications Liaison for Councillor Brian Pincott. As a result, I have an strong understanding of the inner workings of council, committees and city administration which will enable me to “hit the ground running” when elected.

I currently hold a position as a Neighbourhood Partnership Coordinator with the City of Calgary (Note: I am on leave as of June to focus on my campaign). In this role I work with various communities by facilitating engagement, encouraging organizational development in community associations and helping to connect people with City resources. I am also a liaison between businesses, communities, organizations and the City, to promote community investment partnerships. With my experience in this role, I understand where we excel organizationally as a city, and where improvements need to be made in terms of efficiency, communication and building relationships.

I have found that these roles, coupled with my business owner experience, have allowed me to have a strong knowledge of local issues and problems affecting residents, and insight into what makes our Ward 11 communities great places to live and work.

I have lived in Calgary for most of my life (much of that in Ward 11) and I enjoy all the opportunities and activities it has to offer. I studied at the University of Calgary, where I obtained a Bachelor of Arts. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my two boys. I participate in a variety of sports, outdoor activities and volunteering. I have been a director in the Southwood Community Association for the past six years and have planned several annual community events including the Halloween Howler, Winter Festival and Rhubarb Fest.

Your feedback, comments and questions are much appreciated. I look forward to hearing from you and connecting, whether it be online, in person, over the phone or through community events. I encourage you to check out my platform, issues at a glance and blog section to learn more about where I stand on specific issues and opportunities facing Calgarians. I also invite you to view my Elections Calgary video below or visit the Elections Calgary website here. If you ever have questions for me, please reach out and connect. Thank you for your support!