With the municipal election on Oct. 26 approaching, we invited each candidate to respond to the same four questions about their reason
for running, priorities and vision for the municipality, qualifications, and contact information. Their responses are published below as
submitted, subject only to length and standard copyediting for style, grammar, and clarity. Candidates were asked to
keep their responses focused on their own qualifications, priorities and vision for the municipality.
Candidates are listed alphabetically within each position they are running for.

Joshua MacDonald — Running for Mayor

1. What made you want to run for municipal office?

I am running for mayor of Bancroft because I am a unique individual, an out of the box thinker, and I think of myself as a good problem solver.

I have reached a point in my life where I can make a difference in my community, and I believe I can do this by being a part of Bancroft council.

2. What do you see as the biggest issues facing the municipality and how would you go about solving them?

I feel that the biggest issues facing the municipality are:

Homelessness: We need to talk to them and develop a plan, give them ownership, support when needed, structure meal plans, community involvement like service hours, help develop purpose in their lives, assign workers or mentors.

Garbage/roadside and downtown: We need to develop a system, open a recycling plant here in Bancroft, store raw materials/sell at high prices, have a community honour system for youth and misguided individuals, and deposit on containers, water bottles, etc.

Budgeting town funds: Build a large tax-base area. Anyone who has a Bancroft mailing address should be paying to Bancroft tax base, offer tax base/solution to reduce taxes, encourage people to move to Bancroft and thrive.

Reducing taxes: Build a hydroelectric dam to help supply the power grid.

Retail vacancy: Brainstorm ideas to bring small businesses back to vacant storefronts in Bancroft.

Parking: We must work with private individuals to create more parking options/designated parking area with possible shuttle buses.

Youth and the elderly: We need more involvement in the community.

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

As to why I am suitable for this role, I was born and raised a citizen of Bancroft, and I have experienced many challenges in my lifetime, and I wish that the younger generation doesn't have to endure them.

I believe there is not enough communication or storytelling to bridge the gap of going down the wrong path. Even though these are minor setbacks, they could devastate relationship/family or even job opportunities.

I believe in protecting what our forefathers worked hard for and developing something great that this town has to offer everyone that lives and visits it. I am young and eager to develop Bancroft into something great. I want to help build a town to welcome every walk of life. I want to encourage growth and long-term residency in Bancroft.

4. How can people get a hold of you or find you online to learn more about your campaign?

You can reach me at 613-334-6072, 613-332-4816, or at: working4alvng.9to5@hotmail.com

Tracy McGibbon — Running for Mayor

1. What made you want to run for municipal office?

My family has called the Bancroft area home for generations. My children live and work here, my granddaughter is growing up here, and I hope future grandchildren will have the same opportunity. We are here for the long haul. I want to help build a community where they can thrive.

I have spent much of my life volunteering in this community, and I have served on Bancroft council for the past 12 years. I have seen what can happen when people come together. I see the opportunities, and I see the potential.

I am running for mayor because I care about the people who live here and believe we can do more. Families are worried about rising costs. Our roads and services need attention. At the same time, we have local businesses to support and a beautiful downtown, river, natural setting and trail systems that offer real possibilities for Bancroft.

I want to listen to residents, keep them informed and work with council to turn good ideas into action. Bancroft is my home. I am ready to work hard for the people here today and for the generations who will call it home after us.

2. What do you see as the biggest issues facing the municipality, and how would you go about solving them?

The cost of living is weighing heavily on people. Residents are paying property taxes and, for many, high water and sewer bills, while the town still has roads, facilities and services to look after. We need to watch spending carefully, find efficiencies, build our reserves and go after grants and other funding. I also want to explore new sources of revenue so the answer is not always to ask residents to pay more.

We need to invest more in our roads and be clear about what work can be done and what it will cost. People should be able to see the priorities and understand why one road is being worked on before another.

We also need a stronger local economy. Bancroft serves people from across North Hastings, and our businesses, events, and natural setting give us a lot to build on. I want to work with the town's economic development plan, support local businesses and explore opportunities around the York River. Bringing more activity and thoughtful growth to town can help spread the cost of services over a larger base.

Through all of this, residents deserve open communication. I support evening council meetings, easier access to information and regular chances for people to ask questions and share their ideas. I want them to know they have been heard, even when a decision is difficult.

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

I have served on Bancroft council for 12 years, volunteered in our community for many more and run a local business. I know the decisions council faces, and I hear directly from residents about how those decisions affect them.

Long before I was elected, I helped with community events including Hockeyville, Canada Day and Wheels, Water & Wings. I founded the Bancroft Athlon Amazing Raise and have held leadership roles with the North Hastings Family Health Team and Bancroft Skating Club. Those experiences taught me how much can be accomplished when people are willing to roll up their sleeves and work together.

Owning a business has taught me to watch costs, make decisions and be accountable to the people I serve. I bring that practical approach to council. I ask questions, look at the facts and use common sense. I also know that people will not always agree with me, and I will still listen to them respectfully.

I am hardworking and approachable, and I care deeply about Bancroft. I would bring council experience, community connections and the energy to keep moving good ideas forward as mayor.

4. How can people get a hold of you or find you online to learn more about your campaign?

You can call or text me at 613-334-2807 or email me at: mailto:tracymcgibbon73@gmail.com

My website is: sites.google.com/view/tracy-mcgibbon-for-mayor

You can also follow my Facebook page, “Tracy McGibbon for Mayor of The Town of Bancroft,” and send me a message there. If you see me around town or at McG's Cakes on Main, please come and say hello. I welcome your questions and ideas.

Mark Pharand — Running for Mayor

1. What made you want to run for municipal office?

Hello everyone, I am running for the position of mayor in the Town of Bancroft. I have a passion to move ahead and see positive changes in council for the wards of Bancroft and Dungannon.

I want to have a progressive and positive impact on our quality of life in our municipality.  Living here in Bancroft has caused me to be concerned about what's been happening in our community.

I care about our town's future and the direction it's been heading. I have years of leadership and management skills that I want to use to make positive changes towards the right direction. I want to speak for those who are not being heard.

2. What do you see as the biggest issues facing the municipality, and how would you go about solving them?

The biggest issues facing our town right now are affordability and community safety. Affordability is wide-ranging.  Our tax base is currently small compared to other communities, and it needs to grow. We can do this by attracting new sustainable business opportunities for our community while creating and fostering an attractive environment to live and work.

I need to promote and champion fiscal responsibility to keep the municipal taxes as low as possible while maintaining the services both residents and businesses expect. But first and foremost, I need to conduct thorough assessments to identify innovative and effective solutions for sustainable tax reduction.

My goal is to achieve a zero percent tax increase throughout my tenure as mayor.

When chatting with folks, I continue to hear that many are concerned with safety issues in rural Bancroft and the downtown area. Feeling safe is what we all want. There is a feeling that community safety is an issue here in Bancroft. Many folks are afraid of going for a walk on our streets during the day or evening.

I had an RCMP career where we were pillars of our community and enforced the rules in a community minded approach. Allowing individuals to be on our streets and simply look the other way is not what Bancroft is all about.

As mayor, I will ensure that your community safety concerns are heard and acted upon. This is done by ensuring the proper services are provided by advocating for this at the county and at the provincial levels of government.

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

I am best suited for the role of mayor, as head of council, because I have significant experience as a strong leader, mentor, trainer, and manager. I am an enthusiastic, approachable individual with the skills, charisma and passion to successfully and professionally bring a result-centred, progressive leadership approach to our community.

To be a successful mayor, one requires the skills to listen and understand in order to make appropriate and sound judgements and decisions best suited for our town.  The past 30 years of leadership experience in management roles in policing and security have shaped my current capabilities.

Throughout my adult life and professional career, I have held high pressure- fast paced management and leadership positions, requiring strong crisis intervention, emergency preparedness, dynamic leadership, and security awareness. My diverse experience spans law enforcement, adult training and education, international policing, international election monitoring, big box retail and private business, where I have been consistently responsible for adapting to challenging environments, managing complex situations and ensuring that objectives are successfully achieved.

My measured thought process and client-centred approach will steer our town in a progressive and fiscally responsible direction.  I am a confident, transparent, and results-driven leader who can connect and communicate with folks from all walks of life. If you are not aware, I am bilingual, and this has been a proven asset throughout my lifetime.

I recognize that becoming mayor is a challenging fulltime position, and  I am dedicated to fulfilling the role as your fulltime mayor for our community of Bancroft and Dungannon.

Brad Sinclair — Running for Mayor

1. What made you want to run for municipal office?

I am running for mayor because Bancroft stands at a critical turning point, and our community deserves grounded, common-sense leadership with a fresh perspective. Working daily as a local realtor across our region, I speak directly with families, buyers, and business owners every single day, giving me a clear, front-row understanding of the real challenges facing our property owners and local economy.

Bancroft is a vibrant hub connecting North Hastings, yet municipal decision-making has too often felt reactive rather than proactive. Through my professional work in regional real estate and commercial equipment sales, and my daily commentary on municipal governance through Council Watch, I know how local operations, property development, and municipal policy directly impact our neighbourhood.

I want to serve as mayor to bring accountability, clear communication, and transparent governance back to Town Hall. I believe local government should listen to its residents, protect taxpayers' hard-earned dollars, and build a sustainable future that supports both year-round families and local commercial growth without sacrificing our small-town character.

2. What do you see as the biggest issues facing the municipality and how would you go about solving them?

Bancroft faces three interconnected challenges: infrastructure sustainability, fiscal responsibility, and community safety.

1. Infrastructure & Responsible Growth: Rising municipal costs and aging infrastructure strain our tax base. I will prioritize core infrastructure upgrades—roads, water, and emergency services — while removing bureaucratic barriers to sensible housing development that supports our local residents.

2. Fiscal Transparency: Taxpayers deserve clear answers on how every dollar is spent. I will conduct a comprehensive line-item review of municipal operations to eliminate waste, streamline department workflow, and ensure infrastructure projects are delivered on time and within budget.

3. Community and business vitality: Our downtown core and regional commerce need stability. Supporting emergency services, working closely with local business owners, and fostering economic partnerships across North Hastings will help attract investment and protect community safety.

To solve these issues, I will champion open governance. That means communicating with residents before decisions are finalized, fostering stronger relationships with neighbouring townships, and ensuring provincial support translates into tangible local improvements. Bringing a fresh perspective means focusing on practical, long-term solutions over short-term fixes.

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

Leading Bancroft requires a blend of hands-on client representation, executive decision-making, and deep regional knowledge. Through my career as a local realtor, I navigate complex property evaluations, municipal zoning, contracts, and negotiations daily. My background in real estate sales and fire apparatus sales gives me a direct understanding of budgeting, infrastructure, and regional economic dynamics across North Hastings.

Through years of analyzing municipal affairs, I have taken an outside look at how local government operates across neighbouring communities. I have seen firsthand what other municipalities do exceptionally well — and where they fall short. An outside look and fresh ideas are exactly what Bancroft needs right now to break out of reactive decision-making. I know how to bring proven, successful practices to Town Hall while avoiding costly missteps made elsewhere.

I don't offer empty promises or political rhetoric—I bring a strong work ethic, a commitment to transparent leadership, and a fresh perspective for Bancroft's future.

4. How can people get a hold of you or find you online to learn more about your campaign?

Email: bradsinclairteam@gmail.com

Website:bancroftmayor.blogspot.com/

Social Media: facebook.com/brad.sinclair.735

Phone: 705-927-6236

Brent Anderson — Running for Councillor - Ward 1

1. What made you want to run for municipal office?

My desire to run for council has been spurred by my continuous desire for Bancroft to be a better and more affordable place.

I don't like the direction we are going and want to restore a better Bancroft.

I am a long-time resident of Bancroft, and my family has been here for generations as well.  My hope is to help make it affordable and a great place to live for many years to come.  I see the potential to form a great team to move the town to a better place, and I really believe what I have to offer will strengthen our team.

2. What do you see as the biggest issues facing the municipality and how would you go about solving them?  

Bancroft has many issues that need to be looked at. Most people I hear from locally are upset about high taxes. While costs of most everything continue to rise, it's important to prioritize, use common sense and to try to reduce costs. The other big complaint is the lack of parking, which hurts our businesses and tourism. Too many parking spots were taken away virtually all at once. The arena has been an ongoing mess for too long as well. It's time to make it work the way it's supposed to work for all users.    

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

Bancroft needs a great, working, functional team. One where each person brings needed qualities, experience and skills to the table to successfully improve our town. I bring a wealth of financial, marketing and streamlining experience with me.

We can make it more affordable here by making sound business and financial decisions to make things run more efficiently. Having lived most of my life here, I have a great understanding of our community as well. I care deeply about Bancroft, and I have no agenda other than to help to make our town better. It is important to me to always have input from our citizens.  

4. How can people get a hold of you or find you online to learn more about your campaign?

I can be reached either by phone or email anytime.

Phone: 613-334-6701

Email: brentnerb1@gmail.com

George Eastman — Running for Councillor - Ward 1

1. What made you want to run for municipal council?

I am not running for re-election because I think I have all the answers. I am putting my name and reputation forward again because I care about this community.

I bring experience to the table, and I believe Bancroft needs people around the council table who will ask the hard questions, look carefully at the numbers and think beyond the next election cycle.

Over the next four years, I want to help make sure the decisions we make today leave Bancroft with a stronger future.

2. What do you see as the biggest issues facing the municipality and how would you go about solving them?

The Town of Bancroft is under enormous pressure to become more innovative as demand on our services and infrastructure continues to increase. At the same time, taxpayers are asking council to deliver more while keeping taxation the same or lower.

The reality is that we cannot continue to do more with less indefinitely. We need to look carefully at how we spend taxpayers' money, set priorities and make sure we are getting the best value for every dollar.

Prudent spending, thoughtful planning and being willing to make difficult choices can help us manage these pressures while continuing to invest where it is needed.

Infrastructure and housing

Housing is a challenge that all levels of government need to be part of solving. There is no single, clear-cut solution, but through partnerships we can work together to develop plans that make a difference locally.

As a council, it is our responsibility to encourage businesses and residents to come to Bancroft and help grow our tax base. But growth only works if we have the infrastructure to support it.

That means looking at our water and sewer systems, wastewater treatment, landfill, hospital capacity, schools, roads and bridges. We need to plan for growth while making sure our infrastructure can keep up with it.

I would do my best to ensure that we have short-, medium- and long-range plans in place. I recognize that a plan is a living document and will change over time, but we are better equipped to plan for the future when we have a clear idea of where we want to go.

Growth is important, but it has to be managed responsibly.

Affordable housing and local needs

Municipal leaders and staff need to have a better understanding of what “affordable housing” actually means in our community and what our local housing needs are. We need to look at the needs of low-income residents, those experiencing homelessness and our growing senior population, particularly here in North Hastings.

There is no one solution that will address all of these needs. We need to partner with all levels of government and other stakeholders to find solutions that make sense for our community.

Governments are looking for municipalities to be partners in addressing the housing crisis. Bancroft needs to understand the need, identify where we can make a difference and be willing to participate in finding solutions.

Physician recruitment and retention

Physician recruitment and retention is a challenge that is not unique to Bancroft. Locally, through very supportive physicians and healthcare partners, we have been successful in adding to our roster of physicians. Hastings County has also been very supportive in providing financial incentives for prospective primary care physician recruitment.

It is important that council understands the economic benefits of having a hospital and healthcare team in Bancroft. Making Bancroft an attractive place to live and work is one of the most impactful ways council can help with recruitment and retention. We are selling a lifestyle.

We have always had, and continue to have, hardworking and dedicated individuals who commit themselves to providing exceptional healthcare in our community. Council can continue to recognize and support those efforts through financial support, collaboration and by helping create a community where healthcare professionals want to live and work.

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

I believe the Town of Bancroft can benefit from my council experience, my community knowledge and my understanding of how our municipality works.

I have lived in Bancroft for 44 years, so I have a good sense of our history, our community and the possibilities for our future. I also understand what can realistically be accomplished at the municipal level.

My career in banking has given me a strong appreciation for financial responsibility, planning and accountability. I believe those skills, combined with my experience and knowledge of the community, would allow me to make a meaningful contribution around the council table.

4.  How can people get a hold of you or find you online to learn more about your campaign?

Cell: 613-403-0040

Email: georgeandheather@sympatico.ca

Judy Edgar — Running for Councillor - Ward 2

1. What made you want to run for municipal council?

I am running for town council because I care about Bancroft and the future of our community. I believe local government has a direct impact on the everyday lives of residents, and I want to use my experience, energy and community involvement to help make Bancroft a better place to live.

I have always looked for ways to contribute. My experience has been in marketing, administration, and budgeting, and I have owned my own business. I have also served as a school board trustee and chair of the school board. I have volunteered at the Village Playhouse, been involved with St. Paul's United Church, and served as chair of the North Hastings Community Trust.

These experiences have taught me the importance of listening, working with others, managing resources responsibly and understanding that strong communities are built by people who are willing to contribute.

I am running because I believe Bancroft deserves a councillor who will listen to residents, ask questions, work collaboratively and be accountable. I don't claim to have all the answers, but I know how to bring people together, consider different perspectives and work toward practical solutions.

I want to put my experience and commitment to work for Bancroft.

2. What do you see as the biggest issues facing the municipality, and how would you go about solving them?

I believe Bancroft faces several important challenges, including maintaining infrastructure, managing municipal finances responsibly, supporting local businesses and economic development, addressing housing needs and ensuring residents have access to the services and opportunities they need.

My approach would be to listen first and then work collaboratively toward practical solutions. My experience as a school board trustee and chair, as well as chair of the North Hastings Community Trust, has taught me that good leadership requires understanding the issues, asking difficult questions, considering different perspectives and being accountable for decisions.

I believe residents should have meaningful opportunities to provide input on important municipal decisions. Taxpayers also deserve clear information about how their money is being spent and why decisions are being made.

As someone who has owned a business and worked in marketing, I understand the importance of supporting local businesses and promoting our community. I would look for opportunities to encourage responsible economic development while maintaining the qualities that make Bancroft special.

I would also work with council, municipal staff, community organizations, businesses and other levels of government to explore practical approaches to housing and other community challenges.

My goal would be straightforward: listen to residents, understand the facts, manage resources responsibly and work together to find solutions that strengthen our community.

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

I bring a combination of business experience, administrative skills, communication experience, elected governance experience and community leadership that I believe would serve Bancroft well.

In administration, I developed strong organizational and communication skills. Owning my own business taught me about budgeting, responsibility, customer service and problem-solving. My marketing experience taught me how important effective communication is when connecting with people.

Most importantly, I have experience in elected public service as a school board trustee and chair of the school board. This gave me firsthand experience with governance, budgets, policy, public accountability, collaboration and making decisions on behalf of the people I represented.

As chair of the North Hastings Community Trust, I have also had the opportunity to work with others on issues affecting our community. My volunteer work at the Village Playhouse and involvement with St. Paul's United Church have further connected me with people throughout the area.

I understand that being an elected representative is about serving the community. It means listening, asking questions, considering different perspectives and working with others to make responsible decisions.

I would bring that experience, community connection and commitment to town council.

4. How can people get a hold of you or find you online to learn more about your campaign?

I want residents to be able to reach me easily, ask questions, share concerns and learn more about my campaign.

Email: judydedgar51@gmail.com

Phone: 613-334-6492

Facebook: Elect Judy Edgar Bancroft

Valerie Miles — Running for Councillor - Ward 2

1. What made you want to run for municipal council?

I wanted to run for council this year because I have profound satisfaction and gratitude representing the constituents of Bancroft.

Being trusted for two terms has shown me that there's so much involved with operating the municipality. Day-to-day, council and staff must constantly consider the safety, community engagement and the state of our taxpayers.

I always put the taxpayer first as we make decisions that bring all those services to our neighbourhood. I've so enjoyed learning about roads, waste management, arenas, and community centres. The learning opportunities are very rewarding and endless. Yet there's still more to learn and do.

2. What do you see as the biggest issues facing the municipality, and how would you go about solving them?

We have plenty of challenges in the future, with OPP costs leading that conversation.

It is out of our control and is pegged to be an 11 per cent increase next year. We must continue to advocate and bring to the province the understanding that this is an unattainable model for our municipality.

Our continued degradation of old infrastructure is a huge issue. At some point, we know the bridge on Station Street needs to be replaced. How do you replace a bridge that costs close to our town's entire budget? With grants and funding, that's really one of the only ways we get a bridge replaced.

We know our staff and firefighters deserve proper, healthy environments and equipment for their jobs. Council needs to find the right balance by using our current buildings and some new construction, making sure all employees are safe, yet not expecting the taxpayer to fund $6 million in debt for a fix.

Our last tax increase was only 1 per cent. That's very hard to expect every year, but keeping taxation as low as possible is a priority. We need to continue to find ways to still provide services but keep our costs as low as possible.

Both the province and the feds provide funds to help operate the municipality. However, those funding models are not fair when you consider municipalities like Bancroft — a HUB. The funding model needs to be reviewed and improved to consider that Bancroft should be entitled to more, not the same as our neighbouring municipalities.

The fix for this is to continue to meet and communicate with the minister of municipal affairs and housing. We also need to find a way to have our neighbours who use services we all pay for help with their fair share.

The conversation about the North Hastings Community Centre and, more recently, the North Hastings Public Library are both topics where support from our neighbouring communities would help. I also believe regional government should at least be investigated. The good, the bad and the ugly of what amalgamation means.

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

I believe I'm best suited for the role of councillor because I have a deep understanding of where we've been, where we are and where we're going. I've been part of a council that has reduced debt from 6 million to approx 2.5 million with most of that being the waste water debt from the province.

Our reserves have gone from 1.6 million to just under 7 million. We have instituted a policy that says once any debt is paid off, we allocate those funds toward the same department. Start saving to fix the next road, not use debt.

We've also instituted a policy that says we only borrow under very strict circumstances. I've served on a council that has already put in place a dam fix with grants and funding, as well as a water tower, with grants and funding. I will continue to always put the constituents first, as my history shows.

4. How can people get a hold of you or find you online to learn more about your campaign?

My emails are vote4valmiles@gmail.com or vmiles@bancroft.ca. My cell number is: 1-613-334-9080

Chris Sheppard — Running for Councillor - Ward 2

1. What made you want to run for municipal office?

I have decided to run for municipal council in the Dungannon Ward, as there is a great need for a change of leadership and direction in our municipality.  

2. What do you see as the biggest issues facing the municipality and how would you go about solving them?  

I have noticed that our tax dollars have been spent on unnecessary things, while residents' basic needs are being ignored. Our roads are in poor condition, and maintenance is going backwards from hardtop to gravel. Our roads need to be plowed in a timely fashion to enable our children to attend school, our residents to be able to go to work, and so that emergency services can get to those in need.

Dungannon Ward is not getting its fair share of tax dollars, and I want to ensure that the distribution of tax dollars is more equal between Dungannon Ward and the Bancroft Ward.

It is imperative that we address the needs of families and children so that they remain in our community.

I see the need for transparency and accountable representation within the council. It is imperative that we establish honest and meaningful relationships with the other municipalities in North Hastings. No municipality is an island.

I will work with other members of council to address these issues.

I believe that one of the biggest issues facing Bancroft is the level of taxation facing our residents. I would ensure that we are spending our tax dollars better on the needs of the residents and not on frills that are unnecessary.

We need to get back to basics to better control future increases while still addressing the needs of the community. Equal spending between both wards is imperative so that Dungannon Ward gets its share.

The community has a lack of affordable housing. I would seek to obtain funding to increase geared to income housing. The current new housing developments, while nice, are not affordable for the considerable number of residents needing housing.

We need to better address the needs of our vulnerable residents. I am not a fan of the Band-Aid approach. I would lobby to develop a long-term solution, seeking an increase in funding capacity and services provided for the county-owned warming centre. The current model needs to be enhanced to provide 24/7 shelter services, with in-house mental health and addictions services and on-site hygiene resources.

The condition of our roadways is deteriorating. I would assist in implementing an annual allotment for roadway improvement so that our road systems are moving forward and are being maintained in a safe way for the public during all seasons.

Finally, we need to increase economic development. I would endeavour to make the community more attractive by enhancing the recreational and artistic needs of residents, and to bring back more community festivals.

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

I am well suited for the role of municipal councillor for the Dungannon Ward. I have been a resident of the Bancroft area for 40 years and have retired here. I have worked in this community for 32 years and have extensive leadership experience in high-stress situations, including leading and participating in highly functional team settings.

I have raised my family in Bancroft and have children and grandchildren here. I am currently caring for an elderly mother and father-in-law. I am familiar with the challenges of raising a family in this community and the challenges facing our retirees and our aging population.

I am the only resident of Dungannon Ward who is running in Dungannon Ward. I understand Dungannon Ward's residents' frustrations, as I have lived experience. I see a need for a strong voice for Dungannon Ward for equalization of services for our equal tax dollars.

I see a need to get back to basics first, before spending on frills. Common sense must prevail, and things need to be sustainable for Bancroft to flourish.

I have the ability and leadership skills to re-establish honest and meaningful relationships within the council and across the municipalities of North Hastings.

4. How can people get a hold of you or find you online to learn more about your campaign?

I am available to anyone who wishes to contact me at: chrissheppard507@gmail.com

I'd be happy to speak with anyone who has questions or concerns.

Greg Maxwell — Running for Councillor - Ward 1

1. What made you want to run for municipal office?

I have always had a strong interest in politics and a genuine desire to help others and contribute to my community.

Over the years, I have been involved with a number of committees, which has given me valuable experience and a better understanding of the municipal world and the importance of strong local leadership.

I felt that now was the right time to take that experience a step further and put it to work for the residents of Bancroft. I understand that, if elected, I will be one voice among many on council, but I believe every voice can make a meaningful difference when it is informed, committed, and focused on the best interests of the community.

That is why I have decided to run for councillor for Ward 1 in the Town of Bancroft — to bring my experience, willingness to listen, and commitment to helping others to the Council table.

2. What do you see as the biggest issues facing the municipality and how would you go about solving them?

Affordability is one of the biggest concerns facing our community. Residents frequently raise concerns about property taxes, water and sewer rates, and the overall cost of living in Bancroft.

We also face increasing policing costs, and taxpayers deserve clear answers about why these costs are rising and what can be done to lessen the burden.

Our landfill costs and the bag-tag program are other areas I would like to examine closely to ensure residents are receiving good value for the taxes they already pay.

Infrastructure is another major priority for me. Many of our roads require significant attention, and the condition of the Station Street Bridge is a concern. Downtown parking is also an ongoing issue that requires a practical, long-term solution.

Addressing these challenges requires responsible financial planning and strong advocacy. Council must continue building reserves so the municipality is prepared to contribute its share when grant opportunities arise.

We must also work closely with the county and advocate to our provincial and federal partners for funding and support. I have participated in municipal delegations at ROMA and Good Roads and have seen firsthand the importance of presenting a strong funding case.

If elected, I will ask questions, carefully examine the issues and work collaboratively to find responsible, realistic solutions for Bancroft.

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

I believe my 20 years of municipal experience, combined with my extensive background in public works, emergency services and community service, has prepared me well to serve as councillor.

I began my municipal career as a Wingman with Faraday Township before spending 12 years with the Town of Bancroft as a mechanic/operator. I later joined Wollaston Township and currently serve as public works manager for Limerick Township.

In this role, I regularly participate in council meetings, including closed sessions, prepare reports for council, and oversee roads, the landfill, cemetery and municipal buildings. This experience has given me a strong understanding of municipal operations and the responsibilities of council.

I am also a Certified Road Supervisor (CRS-I), with extensive knowledge of roads and minimum maintenance standards.

In addition, I have served more than 25 years as a volunteer firefighter, including the past three years as fire chief. I also spent 26 years as an Auxiliary OPP officer, including 10 years leading the auxiliary unit as staff sergeant.

I believe this combination of municipal, leadership and emergency-service experience would allow me to bring valuable knowledge and perspective to the council table, while always remembering that a councillor is one voice and one vote on a team.

4. How can people get a hold of you or find you online to learn more about your campaign?

Call me: 613-334-1512

Email: gregjohnmaxwell@gmail.com

Mike Dillabough — Running for Councillor - Ward 2

1. What made you want to run for municipal office?

I was born and raised in the Bancroft area during the 80s and early 90s, a time when lumber markets were constantly fluctuating, GP Flakeboard had flopped, and great jobs were few and far apart.

I loved this town but had to leave to chase opportunity but always yearned for home.

When my wife and I had our first child amongst the hustle and bustle of the city, we quickly decided that we'd return to Bancroft to raise our children the small town way.

Upon my return, the town wasn't exactly as I had left it. Infrastructure was crumbling, waste water bills skyrocketing, and community involvement nearly gone, with no clear answers to what was happening.

I contemplated running in the last election to get involved but found my day job, council, and a young family would not allow me to commit a respectable amount of time to anyone.

My children are grown now, and my wife is my biggest supporter, so that means I have time to commit to my community.

2. What do you see as the biggest issues facing the municipality, and how would you go about solving them?

There are many issues facing the municipality today, but some stand out more than others.

Jobs, jobs and more jobs. We need to bring in businesses which will help promote growth in the community. We need to incentivize them to draw them here.

If our children stay, it means our town and our legacy stay too.

Transparency has been a huge disconnect, and I don't believe that the previous council was malicious or hiding anything. I just think when grants and funding are allocated, that information and publications should be clear, concise, and all encompassing so the public understands completely what their stake is in it all. I plan to communicate the whole story.

Infrastructure comes to the forefront as you can see in any direction.

I come from a long career of building some of Ontario's most intricate bridges and roads.

It is my plan to work hard with the town staff and council to procure maximum grant money and streamline procedures.

Also, an asset management fund needs to be developed to save money for tomorrow.

Relationships with our neighbouring municipalities need to be rekindled, and we all need to help each other to weather the provincial download storm. Others have stated we are the hub, but we can't survive without the rest of the wheel.

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

I won't tell you that I am the best suited, and to think anyone else would claim ”best” would do a disservice to everyone.

I joined the race because I truly believe I have a distinct skill set to add to the team.

I have a vested interest in the future of Bancroft and want to see generations stay here.

Anyone who knows me will tell you I don't lay down in the fight, and “can't“ will never be a suitable answer.

Either way, make sure you vote.

4. How can people get a hold of you or find you online to learn more about your campaign?

Email: dillaboughmike@gmail.com

Phone: 613-553-5716

Tracy Stephenson — Running for Councillor - Ward 1

1. What made you want to run for municipal office?

I'm running because I want more transparency from councillors and the mayor.

“Run for office if you want more answers” was the response to questions asked at a council meeting. With all the tourism, we should be doing well financially, but unfortunately, under this council, we are not. Affordability is something we seriously need; residents are driving over an hour just for kids' clothes and school supplies.

2. What do you see as the biggest issues facing the municipality, and how would you go about solving them?

Affordability, missing infrastructure, and a lack of transparency from council are three of the biggest issues I feel we need to address. To solve these issues, we need input from residents about what matters most to them in their everyday lives.

A plan needs to be drawn up for how the town can afford to fix these issues in a timely manner without interfering with residents' daily routines. We also need to ask: how do we attract new residents and businesses to build up our tax base without raising taxes?

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

I have the management experience to help the town run more smoothly, and I bring over 20 years of waste and recycling experience to the table. Major projects, logistics, recycling, and waste are my wheelhouse. I can communicate with industry leaders to make sure our town gets the best value for its money.

I'm a homeowner who wants answers.

I would like to see town resources go into services that benefit everyone. Our town deserves people who can get the job done, be transparent with the books, and help residents thrive.

4. How can people get a hold of you or find you online to learn more about your campaign?

Residents can call or text me directly at 437-218-5301, or email me at stephensontracy3@gmail.com. Let's have coffee and talk about the issues facing our town. Just send me a message. I'm trying to get out to as many events as I can so I can meet as many residents as possible. For more information, visit my website at tracyward1.cas