Dean Merckx

Dean Merckx, aged 54, is a dedicated family man and a professional salesperson residing in the Rural Municipality of Whitehead for the past 22 years. His commitment to his wife of 31 years and their two children is evident in the strong family bonds he has cultivated over the years. Dean is known not just for his professional skills but also for his remarkable ability to listen and address the needs of others, earning him a reputation for being both honest and approachable.

Throughout his career as a salesperson, Dean has honed his skills in problem-solving, often going above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction. His fun-loving personality complements his professional demeanor, allowing him to connect with clients on a personal level and fostering lasting relationships. 

Now, with a wealth of experience and a desire to give back, Dean is eager to make a positive impact in his community. He believes that active participation in local initiatives and organizations is essential for nurturing a vibrant and cohesive community. Whether it's volunteering at events, supporting local charities, or mentoring young individuals, Dean is committed to making a difference and inspiring others to do the same. His journey reflects his belief that a successful life is not just about personal achievements but also about contributing to the well-being of others.

Kristine Coleman

I grew up on the family farm southeast of Alexander, and now my husband, Randy Miner, and I live on an acreage next to my parents’ farmyard. I love the quiet life a rural community offers and I enjoy the neighbours surrounding us.

For nearly three years, I have attended the council meetings.  Sitting on the sidelines has given me a practical perspective on how our local government actually works. I’ve observed magic wands are not handed out at the swearing-in ceremonies, and that provincial and federal government mandates often handcuff the local council in the decisions they can make. However, there is a lane where local representatives can make good choices for our community.

I am willing to be the voice at the table to question expenses, push to trim unnecessary spending, and look for every opportunity to reduce the mill rate rather than raise it.

Attending the meetings for the past few years has shown me that local leaders must actually talk with the community, not just at them. Effective leaders need to be approachable and transparent.

To represent you, council members need to be present—showing up at local events, being part of our community, and being approachable when you have questions and concerns. Sometimes leadership means taking action to make changes. Other times, it means taking the time to explain the logic behind a tough decision. It means having conversations with residents, especially those who disagree.

Much like elementary students, elected representatives need to “show your work” to the public they serve.

Three years of observing have given me this perspective on what the role of councillor should be. If given the opportunity to serve the community as councillor, I will work hard to fulfill that role.

Jeff Owens

I was born and raised in Alexander, and this community has shaped every part of who I am. From a young age, I learned the value of showing up, pitching in, and looking out for the people around me. Those lessons led me to become an original member of the Whitehead Fire Department, where I continue to serve. I later continued that commitment through my work with the Alexander Local Urban District (LUD) and as a past member of the Alexander Rink Committee and the Alexander Community Club.

Agriculture has always been a central part of my life. I started out working alongside my father in our small cow-calf operation, gaining a deep respect for the land and the responsibility that comes with caring for it. Today, I operate a small alpaca farm, with my wife Laurie, adding a unique and gentle presence to the rural landscape.

I’ve always believed that strong communities don’t just happen—they’re built by people who care. Whether it’s the rural areas, the subdivisions, or the Village of Alexander itself, I’m committed to supporting the wellbeing and growth of the place I’ve always called home. My life has been rooted here, and I’m proud to continue giving back in every way I can.

Rob Willman

My name is Rob Willman. I am a lifelong resident of the Rural Municipality of Whitehead ,living on farmland in the southwest corner of the RM that has been in my family for generations. I attended Souris School, then stepped into grain and cattle farming alongside my parents, which I have done for the last 41 years.

Having scaled back my farming operations,  I feel now I would have the time to serve my community as councilor for Ward 1. I understand the agriculture needs for Ward 1, as well as what issues  non- agriculture residents deal with. I can offer hands on experience and I am at a place in life where I will have the time needed to represent your interests on council.

In the past I have served as the Chairman of the Griswold Cemetery Board which I feel is very important to help care for the resting place of our former residents.

I have been serving my community in unofficial ways as I have attended fires with my own pumper truck or supplied water for the fire department with my tractor trailer. I am the kind of neighbor who will plow the roads after a heavy snowfall so everyone can travel safely without waiting for municipal equipment which was covering the entire municipality.

I would like to continue that community support by serving as councilor in  Ward 1 in the RM of Whitehead.

Zachary McDermot-Fouts

My wife and I moved to the RM of Whitehead in 2014, to start our farm and family. We’ve since had four children and have proudly called this place home ever since. This community is where we chose to invest in our families future. 

I recently retired after serving 20 years in the army and would be honoured to serve this community. I ran in the last election but was unsuccessful, however, my message remains the same. I am running to serve you. For many years now, I have attended the council meetings and taken an interest in the council’s conduct and dealings to learn and better prepare myself for the roles and responsibilities of councillors in the event that I am given the opportunity.

It has been my experience that there needs to be more public engagement and accountability on behalf of the councillors themselves. I would like to see clear communication and a willingness to work with and for the community. With my background in the military and the last 4 years in this RM, I feel that I would bring to the table integrity, professionalism and a raw understanding of people's concerns. Being approachable and open minded to the citizens you serve is absolutely essential if we are to achieve a cooperative community to be proud of.

In this upcoming election, I am asking for the opportunity to serve you, the people of Whitehead.

Kevin Klassen

My name is Kevin Klassen and I have been a resident in the Whitehead Municipality for over 40 years. 

As someone who has spent many years in both the farming industry and the trades industry at a provincial government level, I am able to confidently offer extensive knowledge, understanding, communication and solutions for the people and businesses of our communities and municipality as a whole. 

I work for Manitoba Hydro and currently am a councillor for the RM. Over the last 4 years, I have attended conferences and engaged in meeting people who have not only widened my scope of knowledge but encouraged me to be a listener who hears and communicates the concerns of residents to the proper people or channels. 

I have been a part of the infrastructure during my current term. We have made progress in both roads and drainage and I hope to to continue to make these a strong point of importance. 

I encourage everyone to go out and vote on October 28th and consider me to continue to be your “listening ear” and “safe ride home”.

Bob Scott

My name is Bob Scott, and I am excited to announce that I am running for the RM of Whitehead council, representing ward 2.  For the past 16 years my wife and I have called the RM of Whitehead home and love being part of this community. I grew up on a mixed farm near Oak River and have been involved in the Ag industry my whole life. I work as an area sales rep for Premier Truck Group of Brandon, as well as serving as a director for the Provincial Exhibition of Manitoba since 2019, sitting on the Executive Committee for the past four years.  

I believe it is important to get input from the community; I value what everyone thinks, and I want to work together to make the municipality the best it can be. I understand the issues and needs of the agricultural community as well as the non-agriculture residents.    

I would truly appreciate your support and your vote! 

Dennis Foerster

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Curtis Storey

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Jen Kondejewski - Nicholls

I’ve lived in the Village of Alexander for the past 16 years, and for the last 16 years I’ve been running my home daycare. Over the years, Alexander has become much more than just a place where I live — it’s home, and it’s a community I care deeply about. 

Through my daycare, I’ve had the opportunity to get to know many local families and children, and I’ve always tried to be someone who contributes to our community and helps wherever I can. I’ve watched our community grow and change over the years, and I feel it’s important that residents have a voice in those changes. 

I’m interested in joining the LUD Committee because I’d like to become more involved in our community and have a say in the things that affect the people who live here. Alexander is a great place to live, raise a family and call home. 

I’m not someone who claims to know everything, but I am someone who cares, speaks up, listens, and is willing to put in the time and effort to help our community. I’d love the opportunity to give back to the village that has been my home for the past 16 years.

Julie Bean

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Bryden Izzard

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Candidates Disclosure of Offence Listing

Rural Municipality of Whitehead

Ernie Epp

Senior Election Official

September 25, 2026