Faraday Votes 2026 Municipal Election candidate profiles

With the Municipal election on Oct. 26th approaching, we invited each candidate to respond to the same four questions about their reasons 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. Candidate are listed alphabetically within each position they are running for.

John O'Donnell — Running for Mayor

Acclaimed to the office of mayor, Township of Faraday

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

After a 40 year career as a paramedic and serving my community in a job I loved, I felt I could continue caring for our community in a different way.

During my last three years at work, I acted as paramedic chief for Hastings and Prince Edward County. This exposed me to the functioning of our upper tier municipality of Hastings County, and I learned the valuable workings of this level of government.

I ran for council in Faraday in 2022 with support from active and former council members, and I was fortunate enough to win a seat on council for the past four years.

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

Faraday Township has long been admired for its leadership in municipal operations. Sound financial planning has been a mainstay of their mission direction.

The philosophy of running the finances like any successful business or stable household is what has been strived for by previous councils. My goal is to carry on this philosophy.

Several factors that our world is experiencing right now may test Faraday's resilience, but I believe we are up for the task. A volatile world economy, tariff wars and global unrest are forcing inflation and skyrocketing energy costs, which is driving prices up for citizens and municipal governments alike.

Waste management is a very expensive cost to small rural municipalities and has the potential to burden townships like ours even further if we don't come up with innovative ideas to plan how we deal with this problem.

On the positive side, there are opportunities surfacing that we, as a small rural community, may be able to work with the upper tier municipality and/or the provincial and federal governments to get ahead of the swinging pendulum with such projects as reclamation or waste-to-energy solutions over the not too distant future.

Faraday is well known for the quality of building and maintaining their road network. Despite having a relatively low number of kilometres of road, effort has been made to upgrade the high-traffic routes to highway standard surfaces that are expected to last decades as opposed to years. This standard has saved the township over the long term and continues as the process of choice for appropriate applications.

Once a new council is solidified between the November inauguration and the new year, I would like to solicit suggestions from constituents on their thoughts on specific programs to support above the normal municipal standards.

Our reserves help pay for the extra programs but come with the depletion of these funds and potentially increases in the percentage on our tax bills.

My thoughts are that we need “Strong Council Powers,” where we receive feedback from the all council members in consultation with constituents. This can be done through surveys sent out with tax notices and an evaluation to choose when all suggestions are reviewed for the “best bang for our bucks.”

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

I produced an election pamphlet (available on request) that outlined my family background, my recent township experience, my past work experiences, my council aspirations and my life experiences and achievements.

I think it outlines why I feel I have suitable qualifications to be a good and fair mayor in this next four year term.

I believe in the democratic process, and the people's choice in elections is the way to choose the best people for the positions.

After being acclaimed as mayor in this election, I accept this tremendous honour and responsibility to work with all the very capable Faraday Township staff, the acclaimed deputy mayor and the three newly elected councillors for the betterment of all the electorate.

This will be a collaborative effort where we expand on the strengths of all of us on council and be glad we live in a country, province and municipality where we are still free to choose these positions.

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

As the acclaimed mayor for the 2026 Faraday Municipal election, I will be inaugurated after the November 16, 2026 meeting when all of council is sworn in.

Please reach out to me by email at my township address, jodonnell@faraday.ca or on my cellphone: 613-334-9901.

Michael Brooks — Deputy Mayor

Acclaimed to the office of Deputy Mayor, Township of Faraday

What made you want to run for municipal office?

I have served various communities through volunteerism my entire adult life, from Boy Scouts and Junior Achievement to Quinte Health Care, hospital auxiliary, hospice and community integration.

During my career, I spent much of my time either in municipal offices or council chambers. I understand municipal operations, budgeting and governance.

It seemed natural for me to evolve towards municipal politics at this stage of my life. The Township of Faraday has been well run in the past, although I don't agree with all of the decisions made by council.

I would like to see more transparency, accessibility and collaboration with the community. I look forward to contributing to the success and progress of the township in the future.

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

Faraday's challenges are no different from the challenges faced by most rural municipalities. Our landfill site is coming to the end of its life.

Even though rehabilitation is the most cost-effective solution, this will still cost taxpayers $1.2 million over the next few years.

The next big issue facing Faraday is asset management. The township needs to put at least $90,000 per year aside to maintain assets, which include roads, culverts, bridges, equipment, and buildings. The third-largest issue facing Faraday is what type of community we want to live in.

Regional facilities in Bancroft allow our children to enjoy playing hockey and our seniors the opportunity to visit the library or a gym or receive services from Community Care or Bancroft Transit.

The challenge has been an inconsistency in the funding and support that Faraday provides to these agencies. In some years, one could say that we were overly generous, but in other years it has been the opposite.

A line item needs to be added to the budget that will be the annual allocation for funding of agencies that our residents benefit from but are located in Bancroft. This seems only fair and the right thing to do.

No one likes to see taxes increase, but on a bright note, Faraday has one of the lowest tax rates in the area, so any percentage tax increase in Faraday does not have the same impact on a resident's tax bill as it would in many of our neighbouring municipalities.

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

I have the capability, time and desire to serve the residents of Faraday Township. Prior to my retirement, I owned and operated an international engineering consulting firm. Our work was primarily with municipalities here in Canada but also in Europe, South America and the Caribbean. I had to manage complex projects with multi-million dollar budgets.

In recent years, I have been chair of the board for the North Hastings District Hospital Auxiliary and Hospice North Hastings and currently the vice president of North Hastings Community Integration.  

Each of these organizations came with its own unique challenges and opportunities. When I decide to do something, I jump in with both feet.

In preparation, I have attended every municipal council meeting for the past year; I've attended three AMO workshops on how to be an effective councillor; I've read the Municipal Act and every study or document associated with Faraday Township; and I've signed up for another course on Municipal Financing, which I paid for out of my own pocket.

I'm a good listener, a team player and my approach is collaborative which is exactly what is needed in Faraday.

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

I'm on Facebook, and people can email me at mbrooks.mtrm@bell.net or phone me at 613-332-8853.

Andra Kauffeldt, Faraday — Running for Councillor

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

As a resident, I am increasingly concerned about the limited information available to the public about decisions made by council.

While meeting minutes record final decisions, they often provide little context about the discussions, evidence, or considerations behind them.

Residents should not have to attend council meetings in person to understand what decisions are being made or why. With today's technology, the township can provide more accessible ways to inform and engage residents, including recorded meetings, digital engagement opportunities, and regular communication about council decisions and activities.

Transparency means more than publishing minutes and agendas. Residents deserve easy access to the information and reasoning behind council decisions so they can understand their impacts and participate meaningfully in public discussion.

Improving access to meeting information, decision-making processes, supporting documentation, and regular updates in a variety of formats would strengthen transparency, accountability, and public confidence in municipal government.

If elected, I am committed to improving how council communicates with residents and ensuring that accessible, meaningful public engagement is a fundamental principle in determining how our township operates and communicates.

I am concerned about the continued erosion of publicly funded services and the long-term effect these reductions could have on our ability to attract new residents, retain existing residents, and sustain our community.

Costs are rising faster than our ability to keep pace.

Avoiding significant tax increases will require us to grow our assessment base by attracting new families, seasonal residents, and businesses to help us minimize the increases that will be required to pay for future cost escalations.

While maintaining a strong road network is important, roads alone will not drive sustainable growth, particularly when a significant portion of residents do not directly benefit from road services or investments.

Waste services are also essential, and investments in waste management should be carefully evaluated and supported by professional expertise to ensure responsible use of taxpayer dollars.

Fire services are critical for community health, but continuous incremental reductions to the fire service budget could gradually erode the capacity and capability of our fire service to respond safely and effectively when residents need it most.

Recreational opportunities are very limited, with only one facility and minimal community programs available in that space. We need to look beyond maintaining existing infrastructure and make informed, strategic investments in the services and amenities that current and future residents value if we are to successfully make Faraday Township a community of choice in the future.

Sustainable growth will require a balanced approach that supports residents today while strengthening the township's financial capacity for the future.

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

For more than 33 years, I have been deeply invested in municipal government in a variety of roles, including frontline and supervisory positions with the County of Hastings, senior administrative responsibilities with the Town of Bancroft, and three terms as an elected councillor — two in Limerick Township and one in the Town of Bancroft.

This experience has given me a strong understanding of the legislative framework within which municipal staff and council operate and, equally important, the responsibility of representing residents and businesses at the council table.

I believe my greatest qualification is my deep and demonstrated commitment to my community. I have served on numerous local boards and volunteered with countless community organizations in a variety of capacities, helping to provide programs and services to residents of all ages.

I believe Faraday Township has tremendous potential to offer an exceptional quality of life for residents and visitors alike.  

Realizing that potential requires thoughtful choices today that will shape our community for years to come. By planning strategically, making the most of the tools and resources available to us, and viewing emerging challenges as opportunities instead of problems, we can strengthen our community, enhance quality of life, and build a sustainable future for Faraday Township.

I am making an effort to visit as many homes in the community as I can before voting begins, in an effort to connect directly with our residents. If I've missed you or haven't made it to your door yet, and you would like to connect with me, please send me an email or give me a call.

Stop me at the post office or wave me down in the grocery store and we can have a quick chat. Watch for my campaign brochure in your door or your mailbox in the coming days too. Whether you choose to cast your vote for me or not, please make sure you are on the voters list and exercise your right to vote on October 26, 2026.

Only you can determine who will best serve your needs at the council table for the next four years, so don't leave that decision up to someone else.

Chantal Koster — Running for Councillor

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

Faraday is my home — it's so much more than a physical address to me — it's also the community where I'm raising my children.

I care not only about what our township looks like today, but also what it will look like years from now. I appreciate the small-town values, sense of community, and the work that has gone into making Faraday what it is currently.

I'll be the first to admit that our current council has built a strong foundation and leaves behind some pretty big shoes to fill! Faraday is known for its reasonable taxes, as well as its well-maintained roads and infrastructure.

I am personally not coming forward with some big agenda or desire for change, but rather I recognize the value in what we currently have, and I want to do my part to help preserve it.

Over the years, I've become increasingly interested in what happens within our community and the decisions that affect those of us who live here. I have decided to run for councillor as a way to become more involved and give back to the community my family and I are proud to call home.

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

The upcoming council term will involve making some very important decisions regarding the future of our landfill, library, and arena — all of which are currently in partnership with the Town of Bancroft.

I am open to collaboration with other townships to benefit our community as a whole, but only after putting the needs and best interests of Faraday residents at the forefront.

I stand committed to prioritizing the responsibilities of our township first and foremost, and making educated decisions that ensure the long-term success and well-being of our community.

I pledge to listen to the concerns of our residents and take their voices into consideration before casting my vote on matters that collectively affect all of us.

When faced with these big decisions, I believe it's important to carefully review all available options, understand both the immediate and long-term financial impacts, listen to the concerns and priorities of residents, and look for solutions that allow us to maintain important services without placing an unnecessary burden on taxpayers.

Faraday has a long-standing reputation for maintaining reasonable taxes, and I believe we need to be mindful of protecting that while also continuing to provide the services our residents rely on.

I recognize the responsibility behind an obligation such as this and I am committed to representing our community with an open mind, integrity, and an eagerness to further educate myself on issues that concern our township so that I can confidently make informed decisions — all while keeping the best interest of Faraday residents at heart.

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

I have a great deal of respect for the responsibility that comes along with serving our community, and I understand the commitment that this role requires. I am a naturally motivated person who is always open to learning and not afraid of a challenge.

I bring a fresh perspective, old-school work ethic, and enthusiasm for the future of our township.

I understand the significant value in clear communication and transparency. I am someone who is always willing to listen and learn from those around me, as well as take the thoughts and opinions of others into consideration before coming to my own personal conclusion.

I am quick to admit and correct myself when I am in the wrong, and I also know how to respectfully agree to disagree.

I am a deep thinker and naturally someone who asks questions, likes to understand how and why things are done, and isn't afraid to speak up when it matters — qualities that I feel could be put to good use on council.

For me, being an impactful councillor means being approachable, listening to residents, and doing my part to ensure Faraday remains a great place to live, work, and raise our families.

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

Thank you for the consideration and opportunity to represent our Township of Faraday. It would be my honour to serve our community. You can view my campaign online on Facebook, or request a personal copy at: chantalrkoster@hotmail.com or 613-334-6618.

Chris Krawczyk — Running for Councillor

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

Prior to moving to Faraday 10 years ago, I owned and ran a construction company in Toronto for 25 years.

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

I ran for council in the 2022 election without success, but for the last four years I was a member of three committees, and I attended many Faraday Township council meetings.

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

I am always open to any suggestions from constituents. You can reach me at 416-712-6062.

It's time for change.

Please vote for Chris Krawczyk on Oct. 26.

Amanda Stone — Running for Councillor

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

I wanted to run for municipal office because I believe we have something truly special here — something worth protecting and strengthening.

I have been raising my family in this township for the last 20 years, and I care deeply about our community. I want to help ensure that Faraday remains a place people are proud to call home, both now and for generations to come. One of the best ways I can think of to do that is to put in the hard work and contribute to my community at a higher level.

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

There are several areas that are important to me:

Waste Management – Exploring solutions for the longevity and future of our waste site, while finding ways to be more cost-efficient in these areas.

Keeping Taxes Low – It is important to me that we continue to uphold the lower taxes our township is known for by managing taxpayer dollars carefully and responsibly, especially with the ever-increasing cost of living.

Transparency – Ensuring residents have access to information through clear communication, accessible information and accountability.

Recreation – I believe continuing to invest in opportunities that connect residents of all ages is an investment in the future of our community.

Our township has a solid foundation built through the dedication of staff, residents, volunteers, and past and present council members. I want to continue building on that legacy while making the necessary changes to move us into the future.

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

I will bring a fresh and energetic perspective to my role as councillor. I believe my work ethic, knowledge and prior experience would all be positive contributions to the role.

I have also been known to be “full of ideas” and can often be found scribbling them down somewhere for future use!

Most importantly, I am passionate about and committed to the Township of Faraday. My goal isn't to change what makes our township great, but to be a good steward of the community we have built together and help ensure that it continues to thrive.

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

My phone number and email address are listed on the Township of Faraday website, and those are easy ways to get in touch with me. I am also a huge fan of good old-fashioned face-to-face conversation—so if you see me out and about, please don't be afraid to say hi and strike up a conversation.

David Tenthorey — Running for Councillor

What made you want to run for municipal office?

I decided to run for municipal council because I care about Faraday Township and want to play a more active role in helping shape its future.

I don't feel like our township is in bad shape, but improvements can always be made, and I believe it is everyone's responsibility to do their part, whatever that happens to look like. For me, that looks like a great place for those coming along behind us so they can enjoy their time here at least as much, but hopefully more than we have.

It is also about keeping the lives of current residents as painless as possible from a tax point of view, as well as being able to upgrade your property with as few roadblocks as possible.

I believe our community deserves councillors who are willing to listen to residents, understand the issues and make practical decisions based on what is best for the township.

My experience running a business has taught me the importance of responsible budgeting, planning ahead, managing resources and being accountable for the decisions you make. I believe those lessons apply directly to municipal government, where council is responsible for spending taxpayers' money and making decisions that affect people every day.

I'm not running because I believe I have all the answers. I'm running because I'm willing to ask questions, listen to different points of view and do the work necessary to make informed decisions.

I want to be a councillor who is approachable, accessible and willing to hear from residents — whether they agree with me or not.

My goal is simple: to help keep Faraday a great place to live while making responsible decisions that protect our community and prepare it for the future.

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

I see responsible spending, roads and infrastructure, controlled growth, and communication with residents as some of the biggest issues facing any Township. Everyone has a different opinion as to what that looks like so it's important to make informed decisions and every decision should be based on what's best for the people whose money is being spent.

As a business owner, I understand that you can't spend money twice. Municipal council has to make difficult choices about where limited resources are needed most. I would support careful budgeting, clear priorities and making sure taxpayers are getting good value for the money they contribute.

Roads and infrastructure also need ongoing attention. Rather than simply reacting when something fails, we need to plan ahead, prioritize maintenance and look for ways to extend the life of existing infrastructure.

Growth and development should be encouraged where it makes sense, but it needs to be done responsibly. We need to protect the rural character, environment and quality of life that make Faraday special while still allowing appropriate economic opportunities.

Finally, I believe residents deserve good communication and transparency. People should understand why decisions are being made and have a meaningful opportunity to provide input.

I would approach issues by listening to residents, looking at the facts, asking questions and working with council and staff to find practical, financially responsible solutions.

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

I believe my experience as a business owner gives me a practical perspective that would be valuable on municipal council.

Running a business means making decisions every day, managing a budget, dealing with unexpected problems, planning for the future and being accountable for the results. It has taught me that good intentions aren't enough — you need to look at the facts, understand the costs and make decisions that are sustainable over the long term.

I also understand that council is a team. Being a good councillor isn't about always getting your own way. It's about listening to different opinions, asking the right questions, working with others and being prepared to make difficult decisions when necessary.

Most importantly, I want to represent the residents of Faraday Township, not a particular group or personal agenda.

I will bring an open mind, a willingness to listen and a practical approach to the job. I believe residents deserve a councillor who will be accessible, accountable and willing to stand up for what is best for our community.

I'm prepared to put in the time and effort the position deserves.

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

Call 905-716-4700 or email votefordavidtenthorey@gmail

Dawn Switzer — Running for Councillor

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

After 32 years in Faraday and a career that concluded with my retirement as clerk-treasurer, I understand firsthand how municipal decisions affect residents every day.  

I'm running because I care about this community and want to continue serving in a new role. My experience has given me valuable insight into local government, and I want to use that knowledge to support responsible decision-making, listen to residents, and help our municipality move forward in a positive direction.

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

One of the biggest challenges facing our municipality is balancing the need to maintain and improve infrastructure while keeping taxes affordable for residents. Rising costs, aging infrastructure, and increasing expectations for services require careful planning and responsible financial management.

Having worked in municipal government throughout my career and retiring as Clerk-Treasurer, I understand the importance of long-term planning and sound budgeting. I believe council must prioritize infrastructure needs, pursue grant opportunities, and ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely.

I also believe good decisions come from open communication and public engagement. Residents deserve to be informed, heard, and involved in decisions that affect their community. By working collaboratively and focusing on practical solutions, we can address today's challenges while protecting the quality of life that makes our municipality a great place to live.

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

Having lived in Faraday Township for 32 years and spent my municipal career serving its residents, I have a deep understanding of both the people and the issues that matter most. As clerk-treasurer, I worked closely with council, staff and residents, gaining firsthand knowledge of how local government decisions affect daily life.

What sets me apart is not only me experience, but my commitment to Faraday Township. I care about the future of our municipality and understand the importance of listening, treating people with respect, and making thoughtful, informed decisions.  I am approachable, practical, and ready to put the knowledge I've gained over many years to work in a new role serving our community I call home.

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

I can be reached by phone at 613-332-8667, email switzerbelgians@hotmail.com or my home at 594 Lower Faraday Road.