This is a candidate profile for Ashley Perepelkin, who is running for Clearwater County council in Ward 6.
Please provide a little background on yourself, including how long you’ve lived in the area.
I was born and raised in Red Deer, and in 2010 I met my husband, Andrew, which led me to call Clearwater County home. Together we’ve built a life rooted in agriculture and family. In 2017, I began our cow-calf operation, which grew into a farm-to-table beef program by 2019 and finally in 2024, I started a cosmetic tallow lotion company — PF Tallow.
Alongside these ventures, I’m proud to be raising our four children and supporting Andrew with the grain operation, especially during harvest season.
Why do you want to run for council?
I first considered running for council back in 2021, but at that time my children were young (ages 1, 2, 5, and 6), so I felt the timing wasn’t right. Early in 2025, life threw me another challenge with a fall that led to a second spinal surgery in July. Once I had recovered and watched the continued direction Clearwater County was taking, I knew it was time to step forward.
Although this decision might seem spur-of-the-moment, for myself it has been years in the making. The saying that comes to mind is: “If you want something done right, you have to do it yourself.” I strongly believe Ward 6 has not had fair representation, and that needs to change.
Our community deserves a councillor who will stand up, listen, and fight for the issues that matter — not only to myself as an individual, but to all residents of Ward 6. Running for council is about taking responsibility and making sure the voices of our ward are not just heard but acted upon.
What personal or professional experience do you feel would make you a good councillor?
Growing up in the city, to now being a farmer and small business owner, I understand firsthand the challenges of each area of Ward 6. I also know the challenges of running an operation in Clearwater County — from navigating regulations to balancing budgets and planning for growth.
Managing our grain and cow-calf operation, farm-to-table beef program, and PF Tallow skincare business has taught me how to problem-solve, adapt quickly, and make decisions that balance both short-term needs and long-term sustainability.
On a personal level, raising four children while being deeply involved in agriculture has shown me the importance of strong communities, good infrastructure, and opportunities for families. I am used to listening, collaborating, and making tough decisions with fairness in mind — regardless if the outcome directly benefits myself independently.
As a 2025 graduate of the Canadian Cattlemen’s Young Leaders program, I’ve had the opportunity to travel across Canada, connect with industry leaders, and gain perspective on how strong representation shapes communities.
I currently serve as a UFA Delegate and have held leadership roles as president and vice president of the R.O.A.R. Society. With many years in the service and sales industry — both professionally and personally, as well as operating our small businesses — I’ve developed strong skills in problem-solving, listening, and advocacy.
These experiences give me the tools to stand up for Ward 6 and ensure our community’s voice is clearly represented. I believe these experiences give me a grounded, practical perspective. I know how to work hard, ask tough questions, and advocate for others — qualities that I know will help me represent Ward 6 effectively on council.
If elected, what would be a few top priorities?
If elected, my top priority will be to accurately represent the needs, wants, and priorities of Ward 6 residents. I will not bring a personal agenda or bias to council — my role is to be your voice and advocate, something I feel has been missing in the past.
1. Standing with residents on the Caroline Solar Project
The County cannot outright veto the project, but I believe it is my responsibility to stand with residents, raise concerns, and push for stronger municipal authority. I will advocate with our MLA to ensure local voices matter in renewable energy approvals, and I will work to strengthen our bylaws so Clearwater County is proactive — not reactive — in setting safeguards for landowners and taxpayers.
2. Fiscal responsibility and accountability
Tax dollars must be spent wisely and transparently. For example, the County recently purchased 138 acres east of Leslieville for $1.76 million to expand the sewage lagoon. Residents deserve clear justification for such major expenditures. As councillor, I will demand better accountability and ensure spending decisions are always made in the public interest.
3. Supporting agriculture and landowners
Our farmers are stewards of the land, yet the newly approved Land Use Bylaw (LUB) remains too restrictive for agricultural and residential-agricultural lands. While there have been some improvements, the bylaw is still overly complicated and difficult for residents to navigate. I will push for clearer, more practical rules that respect landowners’ rights and support the backbone of our community — agriculture.
Where can people learn more about you and your priorities?
I’m active on social media and can be reached directly by phone or email. While I haven’t launched a political campaign through my business website, I believe my reputation speaks for itself. Anyone who knows me will tell you that I am transparent, approachable, and committed to honest communication.
I don’t enter into debates or discussions without solid facts and supporting evidence. If I don’t know the answer, I’m not afraid to admit it — but I will do the research needed to provide a clear and informed response. I will bring that same integrity, accountability, and diligence to council.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
I believe in the strength and future of our rural communities and protecting our agricultural land. I want to ensure our county continues to thrive as a place where families can grow, businesses can succeed, and agriculture can remain at the heart of it all.
Ward 6 is the south end of the county, and contains James River Bridge, YaHa Tinda and part of the hamlet of Caroline.
Visit our Municipal Election page for more information on the upcoming municipal election Oct. 20, 2025.
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