Rob Gay won't be run off his feet for the next four weeks, unlike almost every other East Kootenay elected official.

That's because on Friday he learnt that no one is running against him for the seat of Area C Director at the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) board.

As the only person nominated for the job, Gay will be acclaimed for another three-year term in December. He is finishing off his second term - and sixth year - in the position.

"I didn't even see it coming. I left work a little early on Friday and I hadn't heard about it. Then I was at the hockey game and a friend of mine said congratulations. I said, 'For what?' I was quite pleasantly surprised, to tell the truth," said Gay.

Electoral Area C surrounds Cranbrook and includes Wardner, Wycliffe and Moyie.

He's looking forward to the issues ahead in the next three years, saying that budgeting will remain a struggle.

"We will continue to be challenged by trying to keep taxes low while people's expectations for services remain about the same," said Gay.

"Citizens in Area C - and probably in our whole regional district - are very sensitive on their taxes. So we're really trying our best to keep that in check."

Land development will come up time and time again, he said, mentioning the Summit West development currently before the regional district board.

"I would think that as we turn the corner and maybe move out of this recession, we'll see more people look to maybe take a few lots off, make opportunities for their children," said Gay.

"I'm supportive of responsible development. I firmly believe that we need to see some growth if we want to maintain the lifestyle we've got."

He is participating in talks about a rural crime watch, and the regional district is reviewing policies on home-based businesses. Next year the board will review its regional growth strategy.

"There is quite a strong voice for walking trails in the city and within the rural area. We are looking at trying to link Jimsmith Lake with Elizabeth Lake and then maybe somehow linking Moir Park with some of the rural areas. But it all takes revenue, and people are sensitive about tax increases," said Gay.

In his tenure at the RDEK so far, Gay has seen two referendums go before his constituents and fail: one to establish fire protection in Wycliffe, and one to contribute to Cranbrook's Memorial Arena upgrade.

He feels that community engagement is the key to success for an elected official.

"I quite believe in trying to engage the public where we can in our decisions," said Gay.

"I really believe it's not about me, it's about what the citizens are looking for."