MLA for Chestermere-Strathmore Chantelle de Jonge has been in office for just over a year.

De Jonge explains that she has learned a lot, which has helped her grow in her position as MLA. 

"Every day, I get to learn something new. I get to meet new people, celebrate their accomplishments, and hear their feedback and concerns."

She says that continuing to learn is an integral part of the job.

"When you stop learning, you're in the wrong position." 

A few big capital projects are in the works for Chestermere and Strathmore, and de Jonge says she is more than excited to get started on them. 

"Our community has had many wins. We have seen substantive investments in education and infrastructure projects."

Going into education, there is funding for a K through nine Catholic school and design funding for K through nine public schools in Chestermere."

De Jonge said there is also funding for the completion of the new Horseshoe Crossing High School in Langdon along with infrastructure and transportation projects.

"There's also $4.5 million for the Strathmore courthouse renovation and expansion and $14 million for transportation."

According to de Jonge, many Strathmore residents visit Calgary every day for work, appointments, or just to visit, so having vital transportation is important. 

"There is funding for interchanges along the highway. One will be at the future De Havilland site, by Chestermere High School and Conrich. So that is amazing news for us."

De Jonge also said there are future dollars that will be used to add lights at Highway 564 and 817.

She then expressed that the UCP government is also trying to help folks with affordability.

"I want to speak specifically to electricity. We have changed the Rate of Last Resort to stabilize the lower prices. We've also addressed local access fees and ensured that municipalities are not raking millions in a slush fund off the backs of struggling Albertans."

She says that work is being done on insurance files to help the lessen the burden for Albertans. 

"We are capping rates for good drivers and taking a broader approach to examining what reform might be needed in the market to lower insurance rates."

Talking about the Chestermere by-election on Monday, de Jonge said she would be happy to work with whoever wins office. 

"I am remaining focused on provincial matters and my constituent's priorities, and I look forward to working with the newly elected council to make our community an even better place."

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