Hay River (Sep 15/03) - Duncan McNeill wants a new chair.

McNeill is not seeking re-election to the mayor's chair in Hay River, but is looking for a shot at a seat in the Legislative Assembly.

Hay River Mayor Duncan McNeill is looking for a seat in the Legislative Assembly. - Paul Bickford/NNSL photo

He will run in Hay River South, the seat currently held by Jane Groenewegen.

McNeill says he considered running for months, but only made up his mind Sept. 8.

That was after a weekend of consulting people he describes as wise council.

"I feel I have the blessing of many people," McNeill says.

After serving one three-year term as mayor, he will officially leave the position on Nov. 3. The territorial election is set for Nov. 24.

In his time as mayor, McNeill believes he has gained a good grasp of the issues that will impact Hay River in the years to come -- the Deh Cho Process, utility rates and funding for health and education.

"I believe I can be effective in dealing with these issues as an MLA," McNeill says.

He is confident of his chances to win. "I believe I have the support of many voters, sufficient to get me elected."

As for whether his decision to run reflects dissatisfaction with the job being done by Groenewegen, McNeill says, "My only response to that question is I feel I can do a good job in representing my constituents."

Groenewegen says she is still contemplating whether she will seek re-election, noting it's a big decision that she does not take lightly.

"I'm just not there yet," the MLA says.

However, she says she will announce her decision fairly soon, after consulting with her supporters.

As for McNeill's decision to run, Groenewegen offered no comment, other than to say, "I think it's good to have an election and good to have people to choose from."

She was first elected eight years ago and returned by acclamation four years ago.

With McNeill's decision to try his hand at territorial politics, there will be a new mayor for Hay River.

As of late last week, two people had declared an interest in the job -- Councillors Diana Ehman and Peter Mahar.

McNeill says he will not publicly endorse either candidate.

He hopes to work closely with whoever is mayor, if he becomes one of the town's two MLAs.

"I think it's better to remain neutral," McNeill says.