Inuvik (Sep 22/06) - Derek Lindsay is a meat-and-potatoes kind of guy.

He's the type of politician who talks about paving roads, improving sewage and other unglamourous projects.

"When I ran for mayor against Peter Clarkson, he promised the Inuvik Family Centre and I promised to pave the roads," he says.

But now that Inuvik has built the family centre - at a cost of $8.5 million dollars in construction alone - Lindsay says it's time stop spending.

He proposes to pay off the towns debts and work on fundamental projects like fixing infrastructure.

"We have a utility system that's older than you or I," he says. "It's in dire need of constant repair."

Having spent 10 years as a town councillor, Lindsay says he's very pragmatic when it comes to politics.

He says government should focus on responsibilities like paving roads, testing water, improving the sewage system and keeping people safe from crime.

"We need to go back to basics as a municipal government," he says.

As manager of the Royal Canadian Legion, Lindsay often meets supporters like Truman Kinglser, who'll discuss issues over a beer.

Kingsler says he likes Lindsay's blue-collar style.

"He's been involved a long time, and he's a stand-up guy. He knows what he wants and means what he says."

Asked if Lindsay's no-frills approach will get him votes, Kingsler says yes.

"I think it's overdue," he says. "We're still paying for the (Family Centre) and it's put us in a financial area we shouldn't be in. We need someone who'll focus on the basics."

For Lindsay, keeping things basic will also apply to his campaign.

He says he'll probably 'go around talking to people' about municipal issues, and probably wear a jean jacket and checkered shirt until the election on October 16.

"I'm not an ego tripper," he says. "I don't really go for that stuff."

In upcoming weeks, the Inuvik Drum will be publishing profiles of all three mayoral candidates.

Watch for Jeff Otto's profile next week, and an interview with Arlene Hansen on Sept. 28.