Guenter Alfred Rieger Former Mayor Township of Spallumcheen, BC 1989 to 1996

Former Mayor Guenter A. Rieger a common-sense approach politician. This is very hard to find today in every level of government. A big question remains. Who is SERVING WHO? Politicians SERVING the people, or people SERVING Politicians?
My own experience in local politics, serving as Mayor of the Township of Spallumcheen from 1989 to 1996, was an eye-opener and a lifetime experience. New mailing address for Spallumcheen residents. Change from Armstrong to Spallumcheen. I applaud everyone willing, to put their private life on hold, to SERVE their respective community or country, and not their private interest. "I have seen too many politicians using their trusted public office for private gain." "The supreme quality of leadership is unquestionably integrity. Without integrity, no real success is possible, no matter whether is on a football field, in an army, in an office." - Dwight D. Eisenhower-
I still believe that every elected official should be only allowed to SERVE for 2 terms. Therefore the word SERVING the general public would still remain. After serving, not just being there, an elected official should take some time off. If he/she would like to serve again maybe run later again for public office again. I have concerns with courier politicians. I have seen too many times that some politicians not serving, they are just takers. Unfortunately, many politicians don't remember, after elected, who elected them, and again the word SERVING is forgotten. Some of those career politicians, would not find a high-paying job in private enterprise, but enjoy living off the public purse. I also believe in fixed election terms, as it is mandatory in Municipal, Provincial, and Federal governments. Millions of tax dollars are wasted if snap elections are called in provincial or federal elections, despite we have 4-year terms for all those governments. I still appreciate that I have received the confidence of Spallumcheen voters who have given me the honor to serve the Township of Spallumcheen as mayor from 1989 to 1996, during which time Spallumcheen celebrated its Centennial in 1992. "I am very proud to say that during my terms as mayor, Spallumcheen taxpayers did not have an increase in tax rates during my entire terms from 1990 to 1996. Spallumcheen taxpayers had no increase in their tax rate but enjoyed an increase in Municipal service. This was only possible through the hard work of two different councils, using common sense and understanding fiscal responsibility. Would be very nice if other levels of government would follow that strategy." "It's not titles that honor men, but men that honor titles." With his 1863 Gettysburg Address, President Abraham Lincoln forever linked Gettysburg with the democratic ideal of a “Government of the people, by the people, for the people.” The Township of Spallumcheen and the City of Armstrong for many people a big confusion. The City of Armstrong is surrounded by the Township of Spallumcheen. Armstrong is the business center for both communities and a center point to meet and socialize since Spallumcheen has no downtown core. Spallumcheen's Municipal office is located in the industrial park of Spallumcheen. Residents of both communities work very well together. Before I was elected as mayor not much communication between the two independent Councils was present. During my two terms in office, I have started a new communications process between Spallumcheen Council and Armstrong Council. I started, which was never done before, Joint Council meetings every month. Therefore both Councils were able to make great decisions benefiting both communities. In 1993 both Councils made a decision to provide their respective residents with unbiased information ( Study paid by the Province) to show the pros and cons of forming again one community as it was in 1892, or leave it as it is. Therefore voters would be able to make an educated and informed decision in case of a Referendum to join both communities to one. Both Councils agreed to this. Unfortunately, one council member of Armstrong, who wanted to be desperately mayor of Armstrong and was elected later as mayor, since Mayor Hornby announced not to run for re-election, convinced Armstrong Council not to support such a study. This was very sad since both Councils agreed to provide a study with needed information. After I retired as mayor of Spallumcheen, unfortunately, everything went back to the old tradition, ` Not too much communication between the two Councils which was so helpful in the past for both communities. Since 1892 residents of both communities used as address Armstrong which worked very well. As of today the majority of residents and businesses of Spallumcheen using still Armstrong as their respective mailing address and are recognized by Canada Post. Despite Spallumcheen, the largest municipality in South East British Columbia, with over 56000 acres in size, never gets a real name recognition. Everyone knows Armstrong about the famous cheese. Spallumcheen,..... some people who live in Spallumcheen responding by saying I live in Armstrong. Spallumcheen, an Indian name, stands for Beautiful Valley. Maybe future Councils of both communities will introduce again an initiative to bring both communities together by building ONE strong community, as it is already by citizens of both communities except Councils. A lot of duplication, which is expensive, could be eliminated.
Historians about Mayor Rieger "Guenter A. Rieger is the first Canadian Citizen holding the office of Mayor after being only for one year a Canadian Citizen. Congratulations.
A big challenge in Spallumcheen's Municipal Election. Posted May 27, 1996, edited August 22, 2012, edited April 10 2017 edited June 2017 Flashback: Spallumcheen's politics 1989 -1996. Mayor Guenter Rieger, two Councils, and many stories to tell. Rieger challenges Norris.Guenter A. Rieger, a Spallumcheen resident, challenged Spallumcheen incumbent mayor Harold Norris in the civic election on November 17th, 1989. Rieger, a newcomer to politics who never served on the municipal council, an electrical engineer, businessman, and farmer said "leadership and more co-operations with other communities are his reason for letting his name stand for mayor. We should be able to solve our differences and problems through a spirit of cooperation...." He said "council has to work with neighboring communities, like the city of Armstrong and other communities, together. Today residents of both communities are working very well together in social clubs and other organizations, but councils have some difficulties communicating with each other. ...."The City of Armstrong was once a part of Spallumcheen before being incorporated into a separate Municipality in 1922.Change in Spallumcheen. Rieger is the newly elected mayor of the Township of Spallumcheen. In a stunning upset. Rieger defeated the incumbent, Norris, 14 years on the Spallumcheen council and after serving three years as mayor of the township, at the polls on Saturday. Mayor Rieger said. " I am very happy and would like to thank Spallumcheen voters for their trust. I will stick to my promise of providing an honest and open government.."
New Municipal Council in Spallumcheen 1989
"The newly elected council of the Township of Spallumcheen in 1989.
Mayor: Guenter A. Rieger, Council members: Ald. Nonie Anderson, Ald. John Low, Ald. Dave Jordan, Ald. Marlene Docksteader, Ald. Les Young, Ald. Rob Hay. Mayor Rieger calls for a cooperative spirit.
"The best way to solve problems is through a spirit of cooperation", Mayor Guenter A. Rieger said in his inaugural speech on Monday at the inaugural meeting. "Spallumcheen with over 65,000 acres can use its unique position as a municipality whose heart is another municipality, the city of Armstrong, to have a bright future," Mayor Guenter A. Rieger said.
Mayor Eric Hornby of the City of Armstrong stated, "There have been already more exchanges in two weeks with Mayor Rieger, than in the three previous years.. .....
Mayor Eric Hornby is now very optimistic about the general atmosphere between Armstrong and Spallumcheen... Mayor Hornby said: Spallumcheen voters made a very good decision......"
ONE on ONE with Mayor Rieger Mayor Rieger says, "When first elected as Mayor in 1989, I had to overcome some resistance of re-elected council members, but managed, that Council made important decisions, very positive for the Township of Spallumcheen and the City of Armstrong" Some examples of Spallumcheen's Council's achievements between 1989 and 1993. A Waterstudy, which was never done before, including 17 independent water districts located in Spallumcheen, started in 1991 and was completed in 1992. Spallumcheen Council of the day was not willing to act on the Study. Representations from independent water districts, the general public, and the city of Armstrong, will allow all water districts, ratepayers, and taxpayers of Spallumcheen, to make an educated and informed decision regarding the future of Spallumcheen's water supply. Building permits skyrocketed in Spallumcheen by more than 400 percent, for a total of almost $3 million, by allowing buildings to be built on existing parcels of land in Spallumcheen, without creating new subdivisions. Milestone Wood Products will build a plant for $10 million in Spallumcheen.
Mayor A. Rieger continues the old tradition. Hans Blattner, former Mayor of Spallumcheen, was named Good Citizen of the Year, by the communities of Armstrong and Spallumcheen. George and Dorothy Scott were honored on their 60th wedding anniversary. Mayor Rieger presented greetings and flowers from the Township of Spallumcheen. Alderman John Low stated "it could be too expensive for the Township to buy flowers and such. He moved a motion, which was passed by the Spallumcheen council, that the Mayor is not allowed to present flowers, paid by the Township of Spallumcheen, to taxpayers at anniversaries. Only Alderman Marlene Docksteader and Alderman Noni Anderson opposed the motion.Mayor Guenter Rieger continued the tradition started in 1892, and paid for flowers from his own pocket, to honor pioneers of Spallumcheen.
New for Spallumcheen and Armstrong.Joint Council meetings. Joint Council workshops were held every month with Councils of Spallumcheen and the City of Armstrong."We have improved the relationship between the two councils very much between the City of Armstrong and the Township of Spallumcheen. Since being elected, I have successfully initiated regular Joint Council Workshops. These have helped both councils speed up the process of implementing improvements for both communities......" Planning in Spallumcheen "Planning Applications: Since 1992 all planning applications have been guided by professional advice from the planning department of the regional district. The process ensures that all applications are treated in an unbiased fashion, but Spallumcheen Council will make the final decision....." Committee of the whole Rieger started a new initiative, not known yet in British Columbia. Every Council member was part of each committee. Each committee was chaired by a different Council member. This allowed Council to make informed decisions before it was voted on in a public council meeting. The media did not like that too much since no grandstanding took place in a public council meeting. Many municipal councils across British Columbia adopted that so-called committee of the whole in later years too. Spallumcheen is again on the forefront.
Mayor Rieger and the local newspaper "The Armstrong Advertiser" later renamed "The Okanagan Advertiser" Mayor report July 1991 by Mayor Guenter A. RiegerMayor Rieger announced on Monday 28th, 1992 to print his own information paper for Spallumcheen taxpayers." I have no intention of going into the news business, but the time has come to inform the taxpayers of Spallumcheen unbiased and eliminate the repetition of confusion created by a local newspaper. There is no place for fake news, including in our community Spallumcheen. Journalists and editors should be held accountable for false/fake news. Personal opinions belong in editorials, but not in a news report. " The monthly information paper will cost Mayor Rieger $300, which Rieger pays out of his own pocket.....

Environment: Sewage treatment plant of Armstrong; After more than 15 years of negotiations between the councils of Spallumcheen and the City of Armstrong, the City of Armstrong was able to build a new sewage treatment facility, located in the Township of Spallumcheen. Spallumcheen may connect to the new treatment plant. Mayor Guenter A. Rieger said: "I am very proud that I have played an important role in maintaining a natural treasure of Spallumcheen, Otterlake, and keeping Okanagan Lake clean by reducing the phosphor levels in both lakes."
Mayor Rieger said: "Only futuristic planning will ensure, that the Township of Spallumcheen will remain as the most scenic municipality in British Columbia, where taxpayers will be able to enjoy their life in the future, as we enjoying it today." What do taxpayers say about Rieger:? People said: "You can love him or you can hate him", but he, Mayor Rieger, worked very hard providing Spallumcheen taxpayers/residents an honest and open government, not found very often today.
Water Distribution in Spallumcheen: Water controversy Spalluncheen 1993 Mayor reported water and water distribution was one of his pet projects. The first water study was started and completed. As a result, two water districts, out of seventeen water districts supplying Spallumcheen with water, came under a municipal umbrella and were able to receive government funding to upgrade their systems.
Centennial Council for the Township of Spallumcheen in 1992. Standing in the back, Ald. Harrold Norris Ald. Noni Anderso, Ald. Dave Jordan, Ald. John LowFront: Ald. Les Young, Ald. Rob Hay, Mayor Guenter A. Rieger, Municipal Clerk
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Mayor Guenter Rieger and his wife Regina assisted by local residents cut the Centennial cake at the Agriplex arena. Hundreds of Residents from Spallumcheen and Armstrong attended the official opening, including the official Centennial celebration at Matt Hassen arena. Special guests: Mayor Eric Hornby and his wife, City of Armstrong, BC Minister of Agriculture Bill Barley, Member of Parliament Lyle McWilliam with his wife, Member of the Legislature Layel Hanson with his wife Nancy, directors, and chairman of the North Okanagan Regional District.
A memorable event for everyone who attended. A time capsule was placed at the Armstrong Spallumcheen Museum, containing the history of Spallumcheen, dating back to 1892. ( July 21 1892 was the official day of incorporation)
Municipal Election 1993 Rieger get re-elected for a second term 1993-1996
Editorials Municipal Election election, November of 1993
"Rieger seeks second term in Spallumcheen. Citing solid community support, Spallumcheen Mayor Guenter Rieger has announced he will seek re-election. Rieger is so far opposed by only one other candidate, Coun. John Low, a frequent sparring partner with Mayor Rieger around the council table.
Low said. ." We have to oust him out of his office."
Mayor Guenter A. Rieger was re-elected for a second term as Mayor for the Township of Spallumcheen.
The community has spoken. Mayor Guenter A. Rieger was the only incumbent mayor in British Columbia re-elected, with a brand new Council. Mayor Rieger with his brand new Council steering ahead.
Victory tastes sweet to Rieger: Re-elected Spallumcheen Mayor Guenter A. Rieger was savoring a victory over his rivals Sunday and predicting a new era of stability in Spallumcheen's volatile politics. Rieger, whose three years on council have been punctuated by pitched battles with fellow council members and the media, had the last laugh Saturday amid election results that left his opposition tatters.
"The taxpayers have spoken clearly, and I am very pleased," a beaming Rieger said. Mayor Rieger's real victory came in the Spallumcheen council race, which saw all three incumbent councilors - Bob Hay- Dave Jordan including Harold Norris, who was defeated in the 1989 municipal election as incumbent mayor by Rieger, and was coming back as a counselor in a by-election in 1992, defeated in favor of his own supporters.
A new direction for Spallumcheen.Citizens Initiatives Referendum and Recall: The new council wasted little time in getting things done. Council passed several motions, including a motion to support the principle of Recall and Referendum, a process Mayor Rieger lobbied unsuccessfully for in his previous term. Citizens Initiatives Referendum and Recall.
In 1993, the newly elected council wasted little time in getting things done. Council passed one of the most important motions in Spallumcheen's history. A process Mayor Rieger lobbied unsuccessfully for in his previous term. Mayor Rieger said: " A Very significant step for community involvement is the step to offer Spallumcheen taxpayers Citizens Initiative Referendum and Recall", Mayor Guenter A. Rieger said in his inaugural address. "This council will go into Canadian history since Spallumcheen will be one of the first communities in Canada to make such an important move."The Provincial Government of British Columbia, may not be ready yet for such legislation.
Road named after Mayor Guenter A. Rieger "Rieger Avenue" During his second term as mayor, Councillor Bev Torrens moved a motion and passed by Spallumcheen Council with no opposition, to award Mayor Rieger, for his dedication to Spallumcheen and open and honest government, by naming a municipal road after him, known today as Rieger Avenue......
Minister of Municipal Affairs Darlene Mazari presented Mayor Guenter Rieger a check of $50,000 for the Township of Spallumcheen
The Grant can be used to identify solutions and possible restructuring for 17 independent water districts supplying residents and farmers with water. The Minister and staff provided a lot of support to the Township, by helping and identifying the role of water districts.
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Mayor Guenter A. Rieger retired from municipal politics in 1996In 1996, Rieger retired from Spallumcheen municipal politics.
After Mayor Rieger retired from municipal politics, he was asked to let his name stand for provincial/federal politics, but Rieger declined.
Rieger said: "Let other people do it. We have many people in our area who would like to have such a job. I could not handle all the party politics etc., since you're not able or allowed to represent truly your constituents..... I leave it up to others......
Changing my principles just to be popular, that's not for me. I have learned a lot during the last 6 years. I had the privilege of working with dedicated people, with two different councils. I think both councils made excellent and wise decisions, beneficial for Spallumcheen for years to come.
Knowing firsthand what the media can do to you, I'm not interested in any other political position. Honest and fair journalism is very hard to find these days. The media can make you or can break you. I like Spallumcheen and my country which has so much to offer. I did my part. I may well write a book someday."
Let's see what happens for Rieger during the next few years. A guy like Rieger can't be silent, and people can be assured that we will hear more of him. His forward-thinking and voice on the Spallumcheen council and Regional district will be missed. During his terms, a lot of ink was used and his name made many times headlines......
Mayor Guenter A. Rieger fulfilled his promise by providing an open and honest government not found many times anymore. He, Rieger was an inspiration for many, but also a nightmare for those who did not like his open approach. He had no hidden agenda and was working very hard by preventing or solving problems. Honesty and Integrity are always close to his heart and demonstrated during his terms as mayor.
Rieger Avenue, which was named after Rieger, will engrave his name in Spallumcheen's history. We wish Mr. Rieger and his family all the best.
Former Mayor Guenter Rieger , in 2015
Former Mayor Guenter Rieger keeps himself busy with humanitarian work. He, Rieger is involved in many organizations helping people around the globe. Rieger was appointed as Ambassador for Canada for an Inter-Governmental Organization called A.N.G.E.L. ( All Nations Generating Equal Love.). The Knights of H.O.P.E. appointed Rieger as Vidame Brother Superior. Rieger was Past President of the Armstrong Rotary Club, Past Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus, Past Faithful Navigator of the KOFC Assembly 2064, and Prior of the Confraternity of the Knights of St. Peter and St.Paul. Mr. Rieger is also known as a Keynote speaker, hosting seminars for different organizations and government agencies. Asking Mr. Rieger about his present life he said.: "I'm very humbled for being elected, appointed, or an honorary member, of those International Organizations. Working with those global organizations is very satisfying since progress is made much faster achieved than in politics..... It's too much to explain what I'm doing in my spare time..... Just have a peek at my website at GuenterRieger.com and it will explain everything without any confusion that may be caused by the media. I still appreciate that I have received the confidence of Spallumcheen voters, giving me the honor of serving the Township of Spallumcheen as mayor from 1989 to 1996. One of many highlights was our Centennial celebration in 1992, yes it's some time ago. It was very nice to see so many residents of both communities from Spallumcheen and the city of Armstrong, participating in different events. I have learned a lot during my terms in public office and found many wonderful new friends with lasting memories. Getting titles does not make me a different person. "It's not titles that honor men, but men that honor titles."However, please let me close with the following quote from Dwight D. Eisenhower. The supreme quality of leadership is unquestionably integrity. Without it, no real success is possible, no matter whether it is on a section gang, a football field, in an army, or in an office." (Disclaimer: Links are public websites and not associated with the Spallumcheen Chronicle)